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Steemit Open Mic Week 71

My Top 5 In Order

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As one of the 5 judges, and as an original artist also, I aim to represent the best original artists in this contest from our wonderful Steemit community. I am keeping my ears open for cover artists as well, don't worry but creating an original song is indeed impressive, especially if executed and performed well. Best of skill and performance to you all next week. This week was filled with so many wonderful artists, even amongst the high amount of entries, and there were still many talented performers who entered, so forgive me if I didn't list you, I definitely heard everyone's entries. Also, be sure to check out the other judges' top picks for the week, @krystle, @soundlegion, @passion-ground, and @luzcypher, who hosts the Open Mic Contest. See you next week! And don't forget to please vote for @Pfunk as witness, who is our biggest supporter and sponsor for this Open Mic Contest.

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1. @pedromrmourato's "Frozen" By Madonna Cover Song
I have never been big on Pop music, and have only heard a string number of hit songs from the world renowned Madonna, and this is not one of them. You both certainly elevated this cover song to an equally high level of quality across the board, as well as, creativity, presentation, performance and passionate conviction. I would first like to commend the guitarist for his real great playing and complimentary accompaniment. Your transitions and build ups were spot on to wing man your friend's wonderful vocals into the spotlight. The singing was truly moving and attention gripping. The chemistry between you two is clear cut and definite. You both bring new light to the open mic contest and this is a chilling performance, which freezes us listeners in our tracks. All puns intended. Thank you for this exciting entry that has stirred a buzz within our community. You are deserving of all the recognition you have been receiving and we look forward to more epic entries like this one.

https://steemit.com/openmic/@pedromrmourato/steemit-openmic-week-71-frozen-madonna

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2. @storycharlemagne’s "Walking On The Moon” By The Police Cover Song
I may be heavy on the originals as what I normally favour heavily, but with a voice like yours, it is hard for me to ignore the pristine entries you continue to put out. Not only are the covers driven with a powerful and impacting range from your soulful singing, you know how to make each entry creatively your own, whether it's an original from your genius and artful mind, or a cover hit from an equally talented artist. I usually don't like such repetitive songs, but it's all about approach and execution, and your vibrato and transitions and minor note adjustments on such parts made this entry thoroughly enjoyable, not including the smooth runs and higher notes you belt out still within full power range. You're an elite performer and I thank you for keeping the standards of the open mic contest extremely high. If judges seem to select the same groups of high quality performers, it is either that other entrants are not improving or taking risks, or you all in the upper echelons are just getting even better with time. Such is competition, and it helps to push each other to strive for better performances and grow as a music community. I look forward to your next entry when you share it.

https://steemit.com/openmic/@storycharlemagne/steemit-open-mic-week-71-story-charlemagne-walking-on-the-moon-the-police

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3. @mrprecious’ ”Redemption Song” By Bob Marley Cover Song
I really really enjoyed this cover song. Yep, another cover song? Three cover songs from @verbal-d in a row for the top 1, 2, and 3 spots? It happened this week. I don't know how often I have heard this cover being attempted, but definitely more than a handful of times since this contest started and I've been judging it, but this is by far my favourite cover rendition of this classic Bob Marley hit. You have a skill for incorporating your passion and polished tenor range into many song choices, and this one is no exception. You clearly show your talent and gift of music here, and it was such an exceptional entry. It has high replay value and should be recognized and appreciated. You take risks with how you branch out from the normal paradigms of Bob Marley's refined composition, and they have paid off as far as I can see and hear. Keep up the soulful, and inspiring entries. You are becoming a fan and judge favourite, and we hold you to a high standard, which is what you uphold. Thank you for sharing and we look forward to what's next from you.

https://steemit.com/openmic/@mrprecious/steemit-open-mic-week-71-redemption-song-by-bob-marley-cover

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4. @lillym's "Hold On Strong" Original Song

How can anyone not enjoy this meaningful and heartfelt performance from you? You have an uplifting and sweet singing voice that brings evident vitality to this wonderful original song. Your confidence is sincere, your performance is poised and eloquent, your guitar playing adds just the right amount of background significance, as you allow your stirring vocals to navigate this catchy and captivating song. I am currently vibing to your track as I write this review, and that is one Earworm of a chorus. I'm holding on as best as I can lol I love the melodious flair you play around with as you coast around your falsetto range, and I can reflect on the profound depth of your lyrics. You are a talented songwriter and performer. Please keep making music, it's more than just noise and this is the kind of song I look for when I am scouting for original music. Music that has purpose and aims to make a positive difference in this cold world. Thank you for the uplifting vibes, it was such a treat. I look forward to what you share with us next.

https://steemit.com/openmic/@lillym/steemit-open-mic-week-71-original-song-hold-on-strong-by-lillym

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5. @honeymoon-1611's "Angel Down" By Lady Gaga Cover Song
I do believe you have the voice akin to an angel. It is pure, melodic and full of musicality. You are effortless in your serenading and are no where near to straining your self to deliver this wonderful cover, which is a great song choice that fits your singing range comfortably and warmly. I can't help but notice that you are one of our younger entrants, and that is a delightful surprise because that just means you have so much more room to improve upon the potential to over layer the already evident talent and skillful control you possess over that stunning singing you produce. The reverb and echo chamber dynamics of the room you've decided to perform in does add a bit too much effect to your voice, but I would really like to hear your vocals more upfront and direct in a more dry setting to enhance the experience of your music. That is my only critique, but this was a really graceful performance and I will not allow it to be overlooked. Thank you for sharing your talents with us all and we look forward to what you will perform for us in the near future.

https://steemit.com/openmic/@honeymoon-1611/steemit-open-mic-week-71-angel-down-work-tape-lady-gaga-cover-by-honeymoon-1611

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Honourable Mentions

My Top 7 In A Particular Order :)

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1. @steembirds’ "283" Original Song
I loved the clever and relatable lyrics in this song which is often the case with many of your Steemit-related tracks. Harmonies and energy were great and consistent! Keep them rolling out guys. You are a pillar of inspiration in our community.
https://steemit.com/openmic/@steembirds/steemit-open-mic-week-71-steemit-open-mic-week-283-original-song

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2. @samcook’s ”True Love” By L.A.W. Original Song
Really enjoyed this entry, you two have such chemistry and produce a pleasing, smooth original sound. Nice quality too.
https://steemit.com/openmic/@samcook/steemit-open-mic-week-71-original-song-true-love-by-l-a-w

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3. @kayclarity's "Fast Car" By Tracy Chapman Cover Song
Yes, I agree this one does get off to a slow start, but the build up and climax of such a smooth and beautiful voice makes it all worth it. You handle the octaves like it's nothing. Great quality.
https://steemit.com/openmic/@kayclarity/open-mic-week-71-fast-car-by-tracy-chapman

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4. @yrmaleza’s ”Aslan" By Marcos Vidal Original Song
I don't know why you are an underrated and overlooked performer by the community as a whole, but I support you for sure. I love your voice, I can listen to you sing everyday, there is something soulful, wholesome and heartfelt about it. You are truly passionate and talented in what you do. Please keep sharing, I'm listening.
https://steemit.com/openmic/@yrmaleza/steemit-open-mic-microfono-abierto-semana-71-cover-aslan

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5. @alexlinares' "Veronica" Cover Song
Whoa you have some vocals on you. I loved the whole performance, you really put your all into this entry and you are a powerful force when you showcase such passion, conviction and purpose. You have a voice and delivery that can change lives, don't forget that!
https://steemit.com/openmic/@alexlinares/open-mic-semana-71-veronica-cover

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6. @tomashofficial ”Wish You Were Here" By Pink Floyd Cover Song
Definitely not my genre, but that doesn't matter when you're a great artist, and you aced this beautifully. I wholeheartedly enjoyed your wonderful guitar skills and confidently skillful vocals to this solid cover song. High quality too.
https://steemit.com/openmic/@tomashofficial/steemit-open-mic-week-71-wish-you-were-here-cover-pink-floyd

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7. @lucybanks’ "Moving To New York" By The Wombats Cover Song
As I have stated before, each time you enter, my hopes are always high for you, and I'm rooting for you from a supporter's standpoint. You have so much potential and each time you break out of your comfort zone, it is an inspiring sight and sound. I really enjoy your originals and any covers you choose to do, just seem to be so natural for you. This one was a softer approach, but nonetheless still stunning. Please keep the entries rolling out for us all.
https://steemit.com/openmic/@lucybanks/open-mic-week-71-moving-to-new-york-the-wombats

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Thank you for viewing and reading this post in its entirety, I hope you enjoyed it for what it's worth.

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All Gifs used from Giphy.com