Honey Jam Searches For Urban Women

Before there were contests like Popstars and Canadian Idol, there was the Honey Jam. The showcase of new female urban artists is now in its 11th year. The competition allows independent artists to perform in a room full of record execs that could help them get signed. In past years, both Nelly Furtado and Jully Black were discovered at Honey Jam events. For the second year running, Universal Music will be sponsoring the show. Not only does Universal provide a showcase of talent, but the company, along with PhemPhat, will also produce an all-female urban compilation commemorating the event. The most recent Honey Jam CD, Honey Drops, featured the likes of Tara Chase, True, Michie Mee and Jemini. Auditions for this year’s contest are being held on June 6 at the Phoenix in Toronto nightclub at 4 p.m. Although the auditions don’t start until 4, the organizers strongly suggest that participants get there early because they are expecting a crowd and will only audition around 200 ladies. And don’t worry if you are living out of province — the judges will accept tapes from Honey hopefuls as long as they are submitted before June 5. Even if singing isn’t your thing and you just want to go and support your friends, the admission to the audition is $5 for spectators. For complete audition details go to the official Phem Phat website.The actual showcase will be take place on August 14 at the Phoenix. You can grab tickets at Ticketmaster for $15, or you can wait to get them for $20 at the door. —Stephanie Forrest