New York – Discovering the Next Jewish Star: Season Two

New York – A Jewish Star, last year’s wildly successful singing competition which attracted singers from as far away as South America, France and Azerbaijan has returned for a second exciting season offering unknown singers the possibility of being “discovered” by the Jewish music world with finalists chosen by public vote and a winner selected by a panel of celebrity judges. Over fifty entries were received last year with 61,893 votes cast before Brooklyn yeshiva student Binyamin Moshe was proclaimed the winner.

While the concept of a Jewish singing competition had long been discussed within the Jewish industry, it was Mica Sofer, editor of COLlive and producer of A Jewish Star who finally came up with the formula that worked.

“Music is the common denominator between all Jews, no matter where they come from,” said Soffer in an exclusive interview with VIN News. “We ran last year’s program as a test run and it exceeded our expectations.”

Soffer said that like its secular counterpart, American Idol, A Jewish Star will become a yearly event, providing a vehicle for talented singers who have no connections in the Jewish music business to get noticed in a big way. While last year’s competition was extremely successful, many changes have been planned for season two.

“Not only did we include a junior division, but while last year our contest was part of the Soul to Soul concert, this year we will be doing a concert of our own, featuring more contestants with results being announced live at the concert.”

Additionally, this year’s winner will receive numerous prizes and a partnership between Aderet Music and A Jewish Star will provide the winner with a direct connection to some of the most successful and influential people in the Jewish music industry.

Returning for this year’s competition are celebrity judges superstar Avraham Fried and Chasidic actor/comedian, Mendy Pellin. Rounding out the panel of judges this year will be singer/composer Eli Gerstner.

“The idea of an American Idol type of contest in the Jewish market has been long coming,” said Gerstner. “I am so happy to see that it is actually happening and glad to have joined. The response that I personally am seeing to this year’s competition is terrific and I am glad that kids were included as well. So many kids are too nervous to sing in front of people, but this contest gives them the ability to record something in private and when they see themselves on video they gain newfound confidence.”

Several of last year’s competitors found that just taking part in the competition brought them valuable exposure. Contestant Boruch Sholom Blesofsky, who went on to record two more well received music videos, was quick to express his gratitude to the competition for getting him noticed.

“A Jewish Star gave me the opportunity to pursue my musical aspirations on a whole new level. Music is just another form of Tefilla and I hope that not only will I grow through my music but that I will have the opportunity to inspire others as well.”