Watching artists with a spectacular voice, stage presence and musicianship, and spreading the word about these amazing talents is the whole reason I got into the music television business. As a VJ on MuchMusic, I've shared the stage and interviewed many talented musicians, but when I was asked to host the 17th Annual Honey Jam Showcase on August 16, an event I've never participated in before, I was thrilled. Since 1995, Honey Jam has fostered some of the best female artists in our country.
Phenomenal singers like Nelly Furtado, Reema Major, and Jully Black have all been discovered on the Honey Jam stage. Produced by non-profit organization PhemPhat Entertainment Group, it is Canada 's longest-running all-female artist showcase. This year's crop of talent is totally promising and destined for stardom. I'm excited to introduce an eager audience to a new batch of magnificently talented women.
From the young and diverse group of girls, I'm really looking forward to seeing 14-year-old Angelique Francis, who has already had her American television debut, composing the theme song for The Gayle King Show.
There's also Haviah Mighty, who won me over with her clever parody of Chris Brown's "Look At Me Now," which she called Look At My Hair. She's already made a name for herself releasing a mixtape and opening up for Canadian sensations Shawn Desman and Danny Fernandes.
Then there's songwriter Taya Marquis, who has co-written a song with pop's glitter girl Ke$ha! There are a total of 17 female artists from all walks of life competing in this year's Honey Jam showcase and I can't wait to see all of them work it on stage.
It all goes down this Thursday, August 16 at the Mod Club (tickets available at www.ticketweb.ca) with proceeds going to support YWCA Toronto's program for women and girls.
So come scope out some of Canada 's brightest new stars with me, and check out my review of the whole evening on www.muchmusic.com the following day.