The stage is set for an epic showdown May 2.
“Sing That Jawn” is more than a singing competition. It’s a platform for young artists across Philadelphia to step into their talent, sharpen their skills, and be seen by people who can help take them further.
Created by Mont Brown’s organization The Kick Back Impact, in partnership with the City of Philadelphia, the program gives high school students the chance to perform, grow, and compete for a major opportunity.
The grand prize package totals $10,000 in support, including a $5,000 Voice of the Youth scholarship named in honor of Philadelphia rapper L.G.P. Qua, a professional recording session in Atlanta or New York City, mentorship and shadowing opportunities with Brown, musical equipment, and appearances on radio and television platforms.
The winning student’s school will also receive a $5,000 arts education grant, reinforcing the program’s commitment to investing in young talent across the city. That energy was on full display at the semifinal event held at FABRIKA in Fishtown.
I arrived during intermission, and the building was already packed. Families filled the room, judges were locked in, and young performers waited for their moment backstage. It had that unmistakable feeling that something meaningful was happening — one of those nights where Philadelphia really shows up for its youth.
What stood out to me most was the care in the room. Yes, it was a competition, but it didn’t feel cutthroat. It felt intentional.
The judging panel included Lihtz, Omar Teagle from Universal Music Group, Tierra Whack, Mont Brown from Columbia Records, and TreWay. Their feedback was honest, but it was also constructive. They weren’t critiquing performances just for the sake of it, they were offering real advice young artists could carry forward on stage presence, song choice, confidence, and connecting with the audience.
And you could feel how much support these students had behind them.
Families, friends, and school communities were there rooting them on. That kind of encouragement means something, especially for young people stepping onto a stage and putting themselves out there in front of a room full of strangers and industry professionals.
Some contestants seemed nervous, but once the spotlight hit they shined with real confidence. You could tell they understood the opportunity in front of them.
A couple performances stayed with me long after the night ended.
One singer performed “At Last,” channeling the classic emotion of the song in a way that made the room go quiet. People really stopped and listened. Another performer sang “Every Little Step I Take” and brought a completely different energy: dancing, engaging the audience, and lifting the mood of the entire room.
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That’s what I loved about the night. The range was there. One moment you were caught up in a powerful vocal performance, and the next moment the room was smiling, moving, and fully in the moment. These young artists showed versatility and confidence.
The hosts, Ant Brown and Suzann Christine Henry, helped keep that energy flowing. They welcomed each performer warmly, gave them their flowers, and reminded everyone why spaces like this matter. The atmosphere was encouraging without losing the excitement of competition.
In between performances, the night also paused for moments that grounded the event in something deeper.
There was a tribute and moment of silence for L.G.P. Qua, known throughout Philadelphia as the Voice of the Youth. His team and daughter took the stage to honor his legacy and keep his message alive.
Another highlight was a special recognition for Tacori Aaria, who was honored for her dedication to the community through both entrepreneurship and music. Moments like those made it clear that the event wasn’t just about talent. It was about leadership, mentorship, and the power of using your voice for something bigger than yourself.
This event created space for connection. The room wasn’t filled with singers alone. Creatives, industry professionals, community leaders, and supporters were all in the same space. Opportunities like this show young artists that their gift can take them somewhere, but they also show them the importance of relationships and being in the right rooms.
Seeing names like Tierra Whack and Mont Brown in the building made the opportunity feel even more real.
Even though only one student will ultimately take home the grand prize, the bigger win is what every contestant gains from the experience. They learn how to perform under pressure, how to accept feedback, how to refine their craft, and how to believe in the value of what they bring to the stage.
Philadelphia has no shortage of talent. What events like “Sing That Jawn” prove is that when young people are given the right platform, they rise to the occasion.
And now the city will soon see which young voice takes the crown! Mark your calendars for ⭐the Grand Finale May 2 ⭐
If the semifinal was any indication, Philadelphia should be paying close attention! The future of the city’s music scene is already stepping onto the stage. Congratulations and best of luck to all top ten finalists.
What do you think? Click the links for more info, and please leave your questions and comments below. If you enjoyed reading this, please check out my last Local feature on Philly hip-hop hustler, Dell-P.
👉🏽 This feature has been adapted from Kennedie Scurry’s original event recaps, published on her blog, TheKenloShow.com
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