Sherlon Russell ‘rising’ to the top - Rising Star winner plans to invest in farming

T he new Digicel Rising Stars winner, Sherlon Russell, may have been Alaine's wildcard, but being wild is of no interest to the Point Hill resident.

In a bid to win the 'sweet 16' edition of the show, Russell says his strategy was just to be true to his character, even when he was urged to come out of his shell.

"I remember one person saying to me, 'I know you're a Christian, but yuh haffi move up yuh waistline likkle more'; that is not me. But the competition has allowed me to be bolder and more emotive in the way I deliver lyrics and in my expressions," he told THE STAR.

Russell's heartfelt rendition of David Phelps' No More Night and Dirty Dancing's soundtrack favourite I've Had The Time of my Life, which was a duet with runner-up Celicea Ellis, demonstrated maturity and confidence that he says was not easy at the beginning of the season.

"I know for the finale, my eyes were wide open and that the connection with the audience was certainly there; prior to that I would close my eyes a lot while I sang to concentrate and calm my nerves. I had wanted to treat the audience with playing the piano again but it was a busy week campaigning and I never had time to properly put the music together," he shared.

As for his $1.5 million winnings, courtesy of sponsor Digicel, Russell plans to use it to invest in his music career as well as in farming.

"From the very start, the producers of the show advised the competitors that investment was the smarter way to go. Aside from putting money into the music to get producers to work with me to record and release inspirational tracks, I also want to capitalise on what I grew up seeing my father do, that is farming in Point Hill."

Russell is also taking online courses in music theory which he says will only benefit his promising career. He also does not plan to fall between the cracks, as have been the case with other Rising Stars winners.

"There are many ideas I have in mind and I believe I have a clear mission. Plus, I have the wise counsel of my family and I am also able to prioritise. I give thanks for that. It is also the reason I don't have any fears," he said.