The “beginning of the year hustle” of staff and interns signify quarterly change at WJUC “The Juice” studios. The latest event sparking this excitement is the return of October’s critically acclaimed “Put Me On” workshop brought to the city by The Juice FM 107.3 and 5Twenty Entertainment. October’s workshop concentrated on informing artists how to be the total package. This spring, a new part of the contest emerges, all about performances a la “American Idol”-style called, “Put Me On Live!”  Registration is free and located at WJUC 5902 Southwyck Blvd. You must register to audition one day only, Saturday, March 5 at 11 a.m. Four weeks of live performances will be held starting in April at the historical Collingwood Arts Center.

Full contest prizes have yet to be divulged, but I heard rumblings about Grammy production for singers and rappers and portfolios for models. As station interns gather information and follow up on venue, sound and prize details, down the hall the coordinators add more possibilities to the frenzy. Whatever the prizes, a chance to be noticed and recognized in the city (and by a radio station) for your work should be enticing enough.

“Put Me On Live!” Is designed for the singers and rappers who feel performance is where their music shines. Models will be able to showcase their style, personality and the winner will hold the first Juice model title. These changes and new additions prompted me to ask a few questions. Station Program Director Charlie Mack and Mid-day’s Tisha Lee were able to provide some answers.

Martini Rox: Why did you decide to approach “Put Me On” from a performance point of view?

Charlie Mack: To give artists a chance to show their natural abilities. So many people sound good after the sound engineer gets done with the track. Let’s see who can deliver with a mic and no production help.

Tisha Lee: The “Put Me On” workshop gave artists the opportunity to receive useful information about the music industry, critique and feedback on a song of their choice, now we want to see Toledo shine on stage.

Martini Rox: Why include models?

Charlie Mack: After doing the “Put Me On” conference we realized there are so many other roles in the business so this time we included models as well. Models don’t really have an avenue to pursue their career that doesn’t cost a ton of money.

Martini Rox: Will you bring back the workshop?

Charlie Mack: I plan on bringing back the (workshop) this fall. The response was great and the participation of those in attendance was more than I ever expected. I’ve spoken to folks who have applied what they learned and its working wonders for them!

Martini Rox: Any tips or insight on what you want to see from the artists?

Tisha Lee: There’s no restriction. However, original material is preferred. The artist will be judged on talent and performance during the audition stage … during performance stage the judge will be looking at performance, musical selection and talent. Keep in mind the audience will be voting as well, so encourage all of your supporters to attend the show!

Charlie Mack: I believe we will see some phenomenal talent emerge. I know this will also give people a chance to raise the bar for everyone else. My only suggestion is to come out and be comfortable in your element. Give it your best and let God guide you.

As we continue on …

Tags: Charlie Mack, Juice FM, Martini Rox, On the Rox, Tisha Lee

This entry was posted on Wednesday, February 9th, 2011 at 10:03 am and is filed under On the Rox, Star.
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