sevier county residents sweep mountain soul vocal competition

The 2008 Mountain Soul Vocal Competition, honoring the songwriting of Sevierville’s own Dolly Parton, awarded first prize to two Sevier County residents for the first time ever.
Gabrielle Ambrose, 16, of Seymour took first place in the 13+ age division singing “High and Mighty”. She received $500, a recording session in Nashville, TN, a guitar autographed by Dolly, and a Dollywood season pass.
Willow Osborne, 7, of Pigeon Forge placed first in the 12 and under age division playing banjo and singing “Apple Jack”. She received $100, a guitar autographed by Dolly and a Dollywood season pass.
“This is the first time Sevier County residents have taken first place in both age divisions,” says Sevierville Chamber Marketing Director Amanda Marr. “Since contestants come from everywhere and our past winners have been from Maryland, Louisiana, Georgia and other states. But we are thrilled that Sevier County folks have won this year. It’s a great testament to the talent in this county.”
The Mountain Soul Vocal Competition honors the songwriting of Dolly Parton by requiring contestants to sing one of the 3,000+ Dolly written tunes in the style of his or her own choice. For information about entering the Mountain Soul Vocal Competition in 2009, contact the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce at (865) 453-6411 or go online to www.BloominBBQ.com .