MOUNT VERNON — A standing ovation, an uproarious crowd and a flooding of votes pushed Mount Vernon natives Blake Jackson and Ashley Burke into the top spots for Knox Idol on Friday.
By a popular vote, Jackson took the top prize in the young-adult category (19-29 years old) singing “Haven’t Met You Yet” by Michael Buble for his first performance and “You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban for his second.
In addition to his on-stage flexibility demonstration, the judges also commended Jackson on his vocal talents.
“I hope we’ll hear you on the radio soon,” said judge Suzy Springer, a local music teacher.
Jackson’s eyes widened in surprise, but it wouldn’t be the last time. Upon hearing his name announced as the young-adult Knox Idol winner, Jackson’s face was all astonishment.
“I was not expecting this at all,” Jackson said. “I knew I had a lot of support here, but the screaming was extremely overwhelming.”
samantha.scoles@mountvernonnews.com
