David Cook may have won this year’s “American Idol,” but would-be pop stars across Iowa still have a shot at fame: For the second consecutive year the Des Moines Register and the Iowa State Fair are in search of Iowans to become featured singers of the Star-Spangled Banner at our state’s annual mega-event.
The deadline for entries has passed, and dozens of Iowans age 13 and older have either submitted their own videos or were filmed singing at the Downtown Farmers Market. Only solo, a cappella versions were accepted - no duets, choirs or bands.
The top 11 contestants will sing at the fair - one for each day of the fair - with the No. 1 singer winning a spot at the opening ceremonies on Aug. 7. See below for complete, official rules.
Grand Prize: One Grand Prize Winner will sing the Star-Spangled Banner at the opening ceremonies of the 2008 Iowa State Fair on Thursday, Aug. 7. The Grand Prize Winner also will receive a pair of admission tickets to the fair and a pair of tickets to one performance at the Grandstand during the fair (performance TBD).
First Prize: Ten (10) First Prize Winners will sing the Star-Spangled Banner on one day of the Iowa State Fair, Aug. 8-17. First Prize Winners will receive a pair of admission tickets to the fair. Scheduled singing dates for each First Prize Winner will be determined by Sponsor.