When the lights are off, and the TV studio is closed for the season, it’s the perfect time for reality show contestants to get out with the public and promote the show – and themselves.
On Saturday, July 19, the Riverside Theater will host "’The Voice’ Tour 2014.
The hit TV reality competition show on NBC has gained steam and viewership over the past six seasons. The next run will start up this fall, with returning judges Adam Levine and Blake Shelton, and new judges Gwen Stefani and Pharrell Williams.
Tessanne Chin, the season five champion will join teen artist Jacquie Lee and powerhouse singer Will Champlin on the tour. Dia Frampton, a member of Team Blake from season one will also be on stage, and will join the top winners from season six.
I spoke with Jacquie Lee about the tour, Milwaukee, and promoting her new single "Broken Ones" that was released on May 23.
"The response has been awesome," the season 5 runner-up said. "It is going great so far."
The 16-year-old has been singing since she was seven. Using her piano, she’s known for writing heart-filled tales of life and love. On "The Voice," Lee was on Team Christina Aguilera, holding her own among the field of older contestants. After the show wrapped up, she’s been developing her own tunes and putting her career on track.
"I’ve been developing my team … finding people that really care about you is important," Lee said.
The New Jersey native hasn’t been in Milwaukee before, but is looking forward to her visit. She spends her time writing, and working on her parts of the national tour. She said that she has enjoyed spending time with the other singers.
"Everything is totally different," Lee said of being on stage with the tour versus being on television. "There is a different connection. I want to make sure (the audience) gets its money’s worth."
Tickets for the concert are $35-$65. VIP passes, including a meet-and-greet with the singers from "The Voice," autograph signings and attendance at the sound check, are available, too.
THE OTHER SHOW: "American Idol" signed current judging panel Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick, Jr., for the show's upcoming 14th season. Ryan Seacrest, recently wrapped up his own deal to remain with the show.
"Jennifer, Keith, Harry and Ryan are the very best in the business at what they do, and I'm thrilled that they are returning to ‘American Idol’ for another season," said David Hill, Sr., the executive vice president of 21st Century Fox.
"Each brings unique qualities and expertise to the team, but they all share the same passion for helping undiscovered singers achieve the American dream."
"American Idol" auditions continue July 23 on Long Island, July 30 in Nashville, Tenn., and Sept. 29 in San Francisco, Calif.
"I am thrilled our consummate host, Mr. Ryan Seacrest, is returning for season 14, together with Jennifer, Harry and Keith. Their interaction, warmth and experience made them an absolute joy to watch. I can't wait to see their evolution together continue next season," said show creator and executive producer Simon Fuller.
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