In an era of pop stars, Pop Idol and reality TV the 2FM Jacob's Song Contest 2004, which was launched last Tuesday in Dublin's Schoolhouse Restaurant gives young Irish hopefuls the chance to display their talent, but not by parading it for weeks in front of TV cameras.
The competition offers young Irish musicians the opportunity to be spotted and rewarded for their song-writing and singing ability by submitting entries on audio cassette, minidisc or CD.
Last year's winner, 16-year-old Dubliner Laura Isibor attended, but a recent illness meant we couldn't hear her perform. Already being compared to Alicia Keyes and Lauryn Hill, Laura has been approached by a number of record companies vying for her to sign on the dotted line.
Radio presenter Gerry Ryan will present the final broadcast on 2FM in February. According to Ryan, the competition is "very valuable and very significant" and "without it, young people would have nowhere to go".
Kevin Hough, producer of the contest since it began 22 years ago, said that originally there were a lot of country and ballad entries. Now, however, he feels he's "beginning to get a bit old" for some of the offerings. The panel of judges is chaired by 2FM DJ Larry Gogan, and includes TV personality Bianca Luykx, Eddie Rowley of the Sunday World and Justin Green of MCD.
Ten finalists will compete for a first prize that includes €10,000 worth of Yamaha musical equipment and a chance to launch a career in the hugely competitive music industry.
The closing date for applications is Friday, December 5th, 2003. Application forms are available at 01-2083461 or by e-mail at 2fmjacobs@rte.ie