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Posted: 09/05/12

Above, Jeanna Dove, of Washington Twp., now holds the title of Romeo Idol after winning over the judges at the 2012 Romeo Idol Finale on Aug. 31 with her powerful rendition of Whitney Houston's "I Have Nothing." From left, Kevin Ottenbacher (judge), Dove, John Stanford (judge), and Kip Klusendorf (judge). Below from top photo: Dove was all smiles when she took the stage after it was announced she was the winner of the 2012 Romeo Idol. Andrea Layer of Ray Twp. placed second after singing "Hallelujah" in the style of Alexander Burke. The judges called her powerful vocals "awesome." Praised by the judges for the soul in her voice and stories she tells through her music, Shantell Prykucki of Shelby Township was awarded third place at the Romeo Idol Finale.

(Observer photo by Kelli Kreger)

Jeanna Dove takes first in
2012 Romeo Idol contest

by KELLI KREGER
Observer Special Writer

      Romeo has a 2012 Romeo Idol. Jeanna Dove of Washington Township now holds the impressive title after winning first place at the singing competition finale.
       As part of the Peach Festival, the 2012 Romeo Idol Finale was held at the Stoneridge Church on Friday, Aug. 31 at 7 p.m.

"It's really exciting and such an adrenaline rush," said Dove of being announced as the winner.
       The high-energy packed evening event was the third and final round of the competition. It was judged by Kip Klusendorf, Kevin Ottenbacher (owner of KO Music Studio) and John Stanford who has performed background vocals for artists such as Luther Vandross, Mariah Carey and Michael Jackson.
       The final 10 contestants of Romeo Idol performed to a full house. Even the Peach Queen and Runner-up were in attendance.
       The judges were impressed by Dove's powerful performance of Whitney Houston's "I Have Nothing." They commented on the great job that she did on such a tough song selection that included so many runs in it, one judge even mentioned that he "would never be able to do that."
       Dove said she has always been singing and that her whole family is musical. Many either play an instrument or sing so music is in her blood. Upon taking the stage after being announced the winner, Dove mentioned that if possible she would like to be a judge next year.

Andrea Layer of Ray Township came in second place. She sang "Hallelujah" in the styling of Alexander Burke. The judges thought she had a wonderful voice, starting out the song in a lower register and ending with powerful vocals.
       Third place winner Shantell Prykucki of Shelby Township dedicated her perfomance of Kelly Clarkson's "Because of You" to her daughter, Jasmine. The judges praised Prykucki for her ability to tell a story through her music and the energy she had while on stage.
       Prykucki explained that she wanted to feel connected to the song she sings, so she chose songs throughout the competition that have a personal meaning to her.
       "I'm the oldest contestant here, so to be able to place is really awesome," said Prykucki. "The girls were all so sweet and it was great to get to know them. I would do it again next year."

Dove was awarded the first place prize of $300, the second place prize was $125 and the third place winner took home $75.
Finalists who also vied for the top title included, Alivia Cameron of Romeo, Mianna Gonczar of Romeo, Mallorie Green of Capac, Abbey Johnson of Romeo, Kayla Mantey of Ray Township, Caitlyn Pichette of Washington Township and Miranda Siewert of Washington Township.