K'Alee set her spirit 'Free' during her performance. - Nathaniel Stewart

After tropical Storm Gustav passed over Jamaica, the producers of Digicel Rising Stars offered a gospel-themed night last Sunday. Though there are no indications that the tropical storm had anything to do with the event, many viewers were very pleased with the latest addition in genre to the talent competition.

One Christian fan expressed his feeling on the gospel-themed night: "They (Digicel Rising Stars) change the musical theme each week and allow contestants to do most musical genres, so gospel is warranted. We are a Christian country, and we have the most churches per square mile, so it makes sense. Most people start singing at church so what's better than to have a gospel theme?"

Right time

Series producer Sharon Schroeter explains the reason behind the decision: "It's an idea that we have been playing with for a long time. But it is as Kiki said in the Sony Ericsson Chill Room, 'nothing happens before the right time', and I believe that this year, and this batch of contestants were, ripe for the introduction of our gospel section and the guest performer, which in no way detracted from the competition and the contestants."

Sunday, August 31, a night to be listed as the latest addition to Digicel Rising Stars' 'new package' for season five, had a rousing night with gospel renditions from the remaining six finalists, which closed off with the first ever guest performance.

The guest performance came from gospel artiste Goddy Goddy with a catchy new song Chaka Chi, and to complete the entire gospel-themed night, Goddy Goddy's brother, Ryan Mark, was the Chill Room guest artiste.

"Sunday's performance was excellent," commented Judge Nadine Sutherland. Recalling the night's acts, Sutherland added: "The contestants were truly great. I particularly liked K'Alee's performance. You could see that she connected with something deep inside her and I felt that."

Spirit

Anthony confirmed Nadine's comment when he commented of K'Alee's performance: "In patches, I felt the spirit." The night also saw judge Anthony Miller rocking to Goddy Goddy's new song.

Digicel's Rising Stars, which began in 2004, is believed to be the premier reality talent show on local television. It showcases untapped Jamaican talent and brings it to the forefront in fine style. Rated as the most watched programme on Jamaican television, it regularly attracts an estimated one million viewers.

Kahlil goes to 'church'. - photo by Nathaniel Stewart