One act was quite noteworthy because he started to crow like a cock as part of his performance. He was quickly told to do something else and he simply held his nose and mooed like a cow. He was not the only one of his kind as other contestants made 'funny' sounds at the start of, or during their performances.

There were also some acts who projected well but possessed little vocal skills or did not know the keys or melodies for the songs they had chosen.

Though the competition has a history of favouring singers, some persons still came to deejay, whether gospel or secular. The contestants also did other genres of music like folk, traditional gospel, reggae, R&B while tackling issues of love, struggles, farming or 'badmindism'.

Despite the poor talent, preliminary judge David Wedderburn said there was a lot of talent at the Ocho Rios audition.

"I think today was a good day. We had an abundance of vocal talent. Unfortunately, we only want 100 people to send to day two," said Wedderburn at the end of the audition.

He added, "The ladies came out as better singers but the men seemed to have better song selection which is the key to this competition. Pure vocal skills will not catapult one to stardom."

Nonetheless, he expects the Kingston leg to be exciting as it usually carries both 'quantity and quality'.

While contestants took their chances inside the audition room, onlookers and auditionees entertained themselves outside. Most of the people were under or near the tent where they watched the persons audition for the judges on the screen provided. It gave them comic relief as they laughed at those who performed poorly or cheered those who did well. Some of them commented on the acts and discussed areas in which they could improve.

The day was hot, long and tedious as people started to register as early as 7 a.m. and some did not leave the venue until 5 p.m. when the audition process was complete. Fortunately, the heat was reduced by the many trees at the venue, the tent and the free refreshments given to the persons who auditioned.

The Digicel Rising Stars judges take in the action.

This contestant puts out her best for the judges.

Some of the patrons and contestants who turned out at the audition. - Roger Robinson photos

A contestant in his element.