Heather James
Hometown: Westport, MA

How do you feel about competing in the finals?
“I am very excited to competing in the finals and feel honored to have made this far!”

Why do you think you should win?
“Just the opportunity to sing at Foxwood’s MGM Grand is already a dream come true. But I also believe that winning the competition will help further my music career and give me the momentum to keep going.”

Where have you performed?
“Besides various community events in and around the New England area, I’ve also performed at High End Venues such as The Byron Nelson VIP Gala in Las Colinas, TX, Grammy Event Showcases in Memphis, TN and Houston, TX as well as the National Anthem for the Texas Rangers and Dallas Stars.”

What kinds of music do you enjoy best? Any favorite performers or favorite songs?
“I’ve always been a big fan of Pop/Dance and Adult Contemporary Music but I appreciate all genres from Country Music to Hip Hop and R&B. Growing up I listened to a lot of Madonna, Mariah, Whitney, and Michael Jackson. But right now, I’m honestly Super Impressed with Lady Gaga and her 5 number one hits!!”

Who would you say has most inspired you?
“Certainly my family. From a young age I was always told ‘Anything is Possible if you want it bad enough.’ So far, it’s proven to be true.”

What would you like to be doing five years from now?
“In 5 years I hope to be a well respected singer/songwriter, performing my own songs and writing for other artists as well.”

Ashley Tucker
Hometown: Worcester, MA

What song do you plan on performing at the Finals? Why did you choose that song?
“I am singing ‘I Have Nothing.’ This song is very emotional and powerful. It has many different dynamics and the lyrics are relatable to many people, including myself.”

How did you get interested in music in the first place?
“Growing up I always loved singing and was highly influenced by MTV.”

How long have you been performing?
“On and off throughout the last ten years.”

What kinds of music do you enjoy best? Any favorite performers or favorite songs?
“Hip Hop/Pop. Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston. I see them as amazing singers in their time, and I strive to reach that level of talent/success.”

Who would you say has most inspired you?
“Mariah Carey.”

How would you describe yourself to someone who does not know you?
“Quiet, goofy, likes to laugh a lot.”

Mia Boostrom
Hometown: North Dighton, MA

How did you get interested in music in the first place?
“I was born to play music. I was rocking out as a toddler and am continuing to follow my lifelong dream of being a famous musician.”

How long have you been performing?
“I have been performing since I was 10 years old. I have performed at the Agganis Arena with David Foster, Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas, TD Bank North Garden, The Palms Resort and Casino, Mohegan Sun, The Dunkin Donuts Center, The Manhattan Center, Rick’s Music World, FIDM, and various open mics throughout Massachusetts”

What kind of music do you enjoy most? Any favorite songs or performers?
“My favorite genre is soft rock/soul. I love Jason Mraz, John Mayer, and Norah Jones. I like it because I focus on the vocals.”

How would you describe yourself to someone who does not know you?
“I am very spontaneous. I love to talk. Music is my life and soul! I love to travel.”

Who would you say has most inspired you?
“As a singer, John Mayer. As a songwriter, John Lennon.”

Tamar St. Julien
Hometown: Newton, MA

As a performer, what makes you stand out?
“I would say it’s the talent and the passion behind it. I want my audience to feel what I feel when I sing.”

What kinds of music do you enjoy best? Any favorite performers or favorite songs?
“I mostly enjoy gospel music and some R&B. Of course, Whitney Houston – no other voice compares!”

What is the most fun thing you have ever done?
“Probably going on tours with my gospel choir in undergrad and with Rashad Mcpherson and Divine Purpose, which is a group I sing with sometimes.”

What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishment so far?
“Musically, it would have to be singing the national anthem at Fenway Park.”

What would you like to be doing five years from now?
“Recording and touring!”

How would you describe yourself to someone who doesn’t know you?
“Funny, creative, energetic, and talented. Fun loving!”

Kion Simmons
Hometown: Leominster, MA

Who would you say has most inspired you?
“Luther Vandross. I’m know as Baby Luther.”

What do you consider your greatest accomplishment so far?
“Not getting whomped at Showtime at the Apollo!”

What is the most fun thin you have ever done?
“Sing the National Anthem at the Boston Fleet Center!”

How did you get interested in music in the first place?
“Grew up in Church…Love for music started at a very young age.”

How long have you been performing and where have you performed before?
“I have been singing since the age of 10.  I have opened up for many artists who have toured through Boston including Patti Labelle, The Tempations, Sean Paul, Harold Melving & The Blue Notes,  Have performed at Showtime at the Apollo, Sang the National Anthem at the Boston Fleet Center and background vocals for Mariah Carey”

How would you describe yourself to someone who does not know you?
“Fun down-to earth, laid back, big giant teddy bear!”