Badsey teen on key for singing showdown

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THIS weekend could be the biggest yet for a talented teenager who will be singing her heart out in a bid to win a life-changing record deal.

Badsey hopeful Jessica Dixon, 19, will take part in the grand final of Open Mic UK at the London O2 Arena on Saturday (January 21) and will compete against other talented finalists including Pershore singing talent Giles Potter who we reported made the final last month.

The singing competition is the biggest in the UK for singers, songwriters, rappers and solo artists and allows them to showcase their talent with the aim of getting signed up in the music industry.

Win or lose, making the grand final will give Jessica the opportunity to impress many guests from record labels, agencies and those associated with the entertainment industry including celebrity judges.

"I'm really excited to be in the final," she told the Observer. "I can't wait to get on the stage and show people what I can do. I'm sure I'll be nervous before it all starts but when I'm on the stage I'll be fine.

"Even if I don't win it will be a wonderful experience for me but to win would be a dream come true. I'd be speechless really. I've loved singing all my life and I would love to do it as a career."

For the big day, Jessica will have more than 50 of her friends and family travelling along to cheer her on during her performance of 'Son of a Preacher Man'.

"I'm delighted my friends will be there," Jessica added. "My friends and family always provide me with great support and for them to come down means a lot to me."

Aside from Open Mic UK grand final, Jessica is putting her remaining energy in another singing competition called Costa Factor 2012.

The talent competition, open to Costa employees, will see two acts from each region go through to the live finals at Coventry's Ricoh Arena in February.

To vote for Jessica and help her reach the final visit www.costafactor.com and click on the thumbs up button below her name.