Karla Davis, representing radio station WRHI Rock Hill, South Carolina has been named, “Best New Act in Country Music” at the 28th Annual Colgate Country Showdown.  LeAnn Rimes returned to the historic Ryman Auditorium to host and perform at the televised event. Karla Davis won the Grand Prize check of $100,000.

Karla Davis began her Colgate Country Showdown journey at the Rock Hill Galleria in May.  After winning the Local competition, she moved on to the State competition and later on to the Southeast Regional competition before taking the stage at Nationals. 

Karla Davis, a North Carolina native recently moved to Nashville to pursue her dreams of becoming a country music star.  Karla is a singer, songwriter, and musician whose passion shines through in every performance.  Her eclectic style is a fusion of soulful R&B with country. 

She is exclusively sponsored by Takamine Guitars and is a member of BMI.  Performing her two original songs, “Keep Moving On” and “Whiskey’s Got a Job To Do,” showcased her gifted songwriting abilities.  Karla spends most of her time perfecting her craft with hit songwriters like Georgia Middleman.  For concert dates, photos, and more, visit http://www.karladavidmusic.com/.

The national finalists performed in front of a panel of industry executives; Jim Catino (Sony Music), Rod Essig (CAA), Fletcher Foster (Universal South Records), Fred Foster (Atlantic Records), Cris Lacy (Warner Brothers Nashville), and Brian Mansfield (USA Today). The finalists were judged on the following criteria; Marketability in Country Music, Vocal/Instrumental Ability, Originality of Performance, Stage Presence/Charisma and Talent. Optional bonus points could also be awarded to acts with original music in a Songwriting category.

LeAnn Rimes and the finalists paid tribute to former contestant and country music legend, Garth Brooks.  Many of today’s top country artists have competed in past competitions including; Tim McGraw, Martina McBride, Billy Ray Cyrus, Sara Evans, Brad Paisley, and Miranda Lambert.