Barentine, Nelson, Wahl returning to Gila Idol finals

SAFFORD — The first three finalists for the 19th annual Gila Idol vocal competition were selected by the judges at Thursday’s preliminary at the Graham County Chamber of Commerce, and all three have finals experience.

Skai Wahl sang “Rehab” and said she was glad to take part in the first preliminary, despite having performed in last year’s finals.

“At this point it was just, for me to get up there and do it,” Wahl said. “I think I’ve been so nervous for so long, that I was just like, have fun with it.”

Skai Wahl showed the power of her voice when she performed “Rehab.”
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central

Kamae Nelson is heading to her third straight finals appearance after impressing the judges with her version of “Natural Woman.” She said now she has to find the right song for a chance at the top prize.

“I’m trying to find a song that speaks to me and speaks to other people, and is inspiring in a way,” Nelson said. “I feel like that, no matter what, if you sound like you believe it’s beautiful, it means even more if it means something.”

Kamae Nelson sang “Natural Woman” to her third consecutive trip to the Gila Idol finals.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central

Jennifer Barentine is making her second consecutive finals appearance, following her performance of “You Can’t Catch Me Now” at Thursday’s preliminary.

“I love singing, so I’m really glad that I can do it again,” Barentine said.

Jennifer Barentine sang “You Can’t Catch Me Now” to earn a spot in the 2024 Gila Idol finals.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central

Three singers will get another chance at making the finals, when they perform at call back night at the Trekasges Theater at the David M. Player Center for the Arts on March 14. They are Marie Nicholson, who performed “If I Ain’t Got You,” Camden Bryce, who sang “Grundy County Auction” and Sydney Haynie, who performed her original composition, “I Just Want to be You.”

From left, Marie Nicholson, Syndey Haynie and Camden Bryce will have the opportunity to perform again for the chance to make the Gila Idol finals at call-back night March 14.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central

The judges also selected one alternate, Henry Guerrero, who sang “Mamma Mia.” An alternate will be selected at each preliminary and, in the week before the finals, the public will vote on the performances on GilaValleyCentral.net. The top vote-getter will become a finalist.

Fans will get the chance to decide if Henry Guerrero should be in the Gila Idol finals, following his selection as an alternate Thursday.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central

Judges were 2016 winner Brianna Morris, who opened the night with a performance of the song, “Cold Cold Heart,” 2018 Gila Idol winner Pete McCormick and 2008 winner Adam Crohn.