ATHENS – Do you have “the voice” to be Athens Main Street’s singing star?

If you think you do, then you need to enter the upcoming Thursday Night Talent competition. The Sept. 28 event, presented by Athens-Limestone Hospital, will be a karaoke-style concert on the east side of the Limestone County Courthouse in downtown Athens.

The deadline to enter is Friday. Apply here. 

Athens Main Street Executive Director Tere Richardson said the winner will receive $1,000.    

“The event is very similar to The Voice,” said Richardson. “Rock, pop, jazz, country, classical, or any genre of music is welcome.”

Once the top 15 have been chosen to take part in the competition, Richardson said vocalists will work with emcee Manny Acosta to choose their song.  

“Not everybody will be able to sing Tennessee Whiskey or Fast Car,” she joked.  

Performers will sing on the courthouse steps in front of a crowd and judges. From that group, six singers will advance to the next round on Oct. 26 where the winner is crowned and awarded a $1,000 prize.  

Richardson said the audience will also have a vote.  

“There will be a People’s Choice finalist that will move on to the final six,” she said.  

Richardson said the event came about after the incredible popularity of their Fridays After Five events during the summer.  

“We will have food trucks and music,” she said. “The community is invited to bring chairs, come cheer on their favorite performer and enjoy a great time.”