The New York Jets today announced three finalists for their first National Anthem Contest, which was held at the Meadowlands on July 15 in collaboration with Columbia Records and 1050 AM ESPN Radio.
Now it is up to Jets fans to vote for their favorite singer at www.newyorkjets.com. The lucky contest winner will perform the anthem on Sunday, Dec. 9, when the Jets host the Cleveland Browns, and will also have the opportunity to meet with a Columbia Records talent scout.
The finalists are Nicole Alexis of Freeport, N.Y., Victor Velazquez of Jersey City, N.J., and Heather Kreuzman of Flushing, N.Y.
Dozens of contestants arrived at the Meadowlands early in the morning on a hot summer day to sing their best rendition of the Star Spangled Banner for a panel of judges. Ranging from kids 9 years of age to men and women in their fifties, the wannabe stars sang their hearts out hoping to realize their dreams of performing in front of a packed stadium of 80,000 screaming fans.
With enthusiasm, spirit and confidence, the contestants one by one took to the field, belting out the National Anthem to the best of their abilities. Some, more nervous than others, stumbled on the words, stopping and starting more than once. Other contestants were thrown by the echo of the PA system, unsure whether earplugs might help or hurt.
Ranging from a rock 'n' roll version with a Jimi Hendrix spin to a gospel-inspired duo to a female foursome — all in all, the contestants' efforts were nothing short of impressive.
Though difficult to narrow down, the judges chose the three finalists with the best voices and stage presence. Now it's up to you to make one of these contestants' dreams come true, so visit www.newyorkjets.com and be sure to place your vote.
