Steemit Open Mic Week 67

My Top 5 In Order

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. See you next week! And don't forget to vote for @Pfunk as witness.

1. Hive account@marusings' "You Raised Me Up" Cover Song
All glory to God indeed for this awe inspiring voice He has graciously bestowed upon you. The Holy Spirit was infused with your powerful singing and it was an instant moving, and captivating wonder. You have blessed us with such a memorable entry, and have showcased how impacting one's love for God, faith and music can be interwoven into artistic tapestry. You are quite the note weaver and I love the smooth and gliding runs you did towards the latter half of the song. Don't ever hide that gift He has given you, please keep sharing it with the world and glorifying God with it. I look forward to your future entries.

https://steemit.com/openmic/@marcusings/open-mic-contest-week-67-you-raised-me-up-by-westlife

2. Hive account@storycharlemagne's "Take Me To Church" By Hozier Cover Song
You always give a near perfect entry, since perfection is not acquirable by any human limits, as we all are indeed confined to the vastness of imperfection, but you sure seem to blur the line between the two planes. You have so much control and effect on your skilled vocals, it is pretty ridiculous how even the covers you are now beginning to sing are just way better than the original artist. And you being quality original artist, you are still able to make the cover your own, without even needing to stray far from the original structure, but passion, conviction and intention of an artist takes any song that much further with those considered in performance and presentation and you've got it all on lock. Thank you for keeping the standard extremely high in the Open Mic Contest. We appreciate your entries and look forward to hearing more.

https://steemit.com/openmic/@storycharlemagne/steemit-open-mic-week-67-story-charlemange-take-me-to-church-hozier-cover

3. Hive account@gabrielamenesesg's "Locked Out Of Heaven" By Bruno Mars Cover Song

You have quite the wide range, superb control in your sweet vibrato and a beautifully powerful voice. Your performance with your friend is riveting and full of joy, positive energy and good grooving vibes, but most importantly, the way you flow and maintain passionate rhythm is what propelled this entry. The subtle harmonies were a nice texture. I could hear you sing this often and never get bored of it. You also make Bruno Mars look bad lol You sang it far better than he has, and that is a wonderful thing. I am sure you are capable of creating some great original music, but if you keep submitting covers, I am content and happy either way. You are a great addition to our high quality group of skilled musicians and performers within our Steemit Open Mic Community. So glad you have entered and joined us and shared your talents. Look forward to your next entry

https://steemit.com/openmic/@gabrielamenesesg/steemit-open-mic-semana-67-locked-out-of-heaven-cover

4. Hive account@etemi's "Say You Won't Let Me Go" By James Arthur Cover Song
I was having a pretty hard time deciding between your amazing singing, Hive account@yourmercury's fantastically high pitched Sam Smith serenading, and Hive account@mrprecious' original, catchy, groovy and stylistic entry. You have such a wonderful voice and you sound like someone, but I can't put my finger on it. When you began opening up more on certain parts of the song, your voice showed some real depth and texture and it was a joy to listen to. I believe all three of you should share this top spot, you all did a great job and I am really glad Hive account@yourmecury has brought in so many talented friends to our Steemit Open Mic community. I look forward to your next entry.

https://steemit.com/openmic/@etemi/steemit-open-mic-week-67-say-you-won-t-let-go-cover-by-me-etemi

5. Hive account@orrslaw's "Waitless" Original Song
Your voice is so distinct and I really enjoy the raspy quality it provides. Your original songs are top notch hits and resonate with the soul. You craft your lyrics wonderfully as well as the rhythmic structure in how you perform the entire piece. This one has been stuck in my head since I gave it its first listen through. You are quite the musician and singer and your voice is so unique, I feel I could recognise it anywhere. Kind of like how when I hear Anthony Hamilton sing, his voice is also quite distinct, and it sets him apart from the rest, and you certainly stand out from our community of musicians and skilled players in the best way possible. Thank you for another gem.