Page 69 - The Singing Contest 2019 Magazine

The Judges

Darnell-Brandon Thomas, Canadian-born
with Trinidadian roots is a vocalist and multi-instrumentalist
known for his energetic, eclectic and emotionally capturing
performances. His versatility to sing and play several genres
including but not limited to Jazz, R&B, Soul, Funk, Pop, Rock,
Classical and Latin, is one of the many reasons he is in high
demand by many. He has received tutelage from some of
the World's renowned vocal coaches like Falconer Abraham
(vocal coach to many top Toronto artists like Melanie Fiona,
Neverest and Aleesia) and Seth Riggs (vocal coach to some
of the world's greatest vocalists like Michael Jackson, Prince,
Barbra Streisand and Stevie Wonder). Darnell has also done
musical work for hit TV Shows like “Glee" and Disney's
"Overruled!" and worked with artists like Nelly Furtado
and Fefe Dobson. In 2008, he competed in the World
Championships of Performing Arts, held in Hollywood,
where he won four gold medals and winning the Grand collaboration with UNESCO (an arm of The United Nations)
Champion of the World Title - Instrumental category playing to raise funds for various charities. In 2009, he established the
the Steel Pan. Keys to Dreams Foundation, which provides financial assist-
Darnell, a role model and philanthropist, has arranged, ance through scholarships to musicians. In 2015, Darnell was
produced and performed in several charitable concerts in invited to audition for The Voice UK & X Factor UK. Darnell
currently holds a Masters Degree in Vocal Performance &
Ethnomusicology from York University and is a guest lecturer
for the Music Department at York University.
In 2017, Darnell established GTA’s newest and highly
sort-after corporate, wedding and special events band, ”D
& The Groove Factory”. He also co-founded a youthful vocal
group, “Vocalics”, who has made waves in the GTA for their
rich harmonies and vocal talents. Darnell materialized one of
his artistic dreams becoming the co-founder and co-artistic
director of Cue The Lights Productions, focused on shining
the spotlight on established and up-and-coming profession-
al singers, actors and dancers in both original and popular
shows.
Amid that, he still finds the time and energy to be the
Musical Director at The Avenue Roads Arts School in Toronto,
give back to the community both local and international and
meet the live music demand at several venues on a regular
basis.
Darnell was able to join us for the Semis and this will be
Darnell’s third season as a judge at the Final. The Finalists
were all fortunate enough to participate in vocal workshops
with Darnell where they clearly gained a little insight into a
judge’s perspective.

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