Local funk/R&B band The Main Squeeze brought home the cash-$250,000 to be exact-after winning The Venetian Carnival’s first ever Jazz and Blues Competition in Macao. The band posted on their blog on May 13 that they were selected to perform in the finals that took place from May 25-May 27.
The Venetian Carnival is a three-day celebration of world cultures through music, food, and live entertainment. The carnival takes place at the Venetian Macao and is sponsored by the Macau Government Tourist Office.
The judges of the contest were Hong Kong icon Mr. Michael Wong, editor-in-chief of Rolling Stone Australia magazine, Mr. Matt Coyte, and American Idol finalist Ms. Vonzell Solomon. Twelve acts performed head to head for 30 minute each. The acts were judged on their skill, style and performance.
The winners of the contest were as follows:
1st Place ($250,000)-The Main Squeeze (Bloomington)
2nd Place ($150,000)- The Red Groove Project (Shanghai, China)
3rd Place ($100,000)- SPOKE (New York)
According to Brandon Elliott, Vice President of Sales and Resport Marketing, Venetian Macau Ltd., there was an overwhelming response to the first Jazz and Blues contest. Talent ranged from Macao to Brazil, France, Korea, and the United States. Thousands of visitors came to see the contest and were engaged in the activities.
The Main Squeeze will be welcomed home by fans at The Bluebird this Saturday at their CD Release Show. The show will start at 10pm. The Squeeze will also be on the road this summer playing festivals such as Bonnaroo (June 9).
Congratulations to The Main Squeeze!
