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RISING STAR Paisley singer is all set FORTV talent show debut

Curtis 1

Bright lights and showbiz success are on the horizon for former West College Scotland Music student as he makes his national television debut.

Curtis Campbell is set to star as a judge in All Together Now, a new BBC talent contest.

Hailing from the Dykebar area, the 22 year-old joins forces with former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell and comedian Rob Beckett on screen and can't wait for everyone in Paisley to tune in.

"Being part of this new show has been a fantastic experience," he said.

Working alongside people who are at the top of their game and big stars has been such an inspiration.

"Seeing how a massive TV show like that comes together in a professional studio was a real eye-opener "I'll never forget this experience." All Together Now claims to be a talent contest with a twist.

Each week 12 contestants sing to a panel of 100 judges, headed up by Geri Halliwell. The top two singers will go through to the grand final where a £50,000 prize is up for grabs. Curtis judges alongside 99 people who are hailed in the music industry.

"There are West End performers and directors, former X Factor and Britain's Got Talent contestants, top tribute acts, choir conductors, famous vocal coaches and more," Curtis added.

"To be ranked alongside people who are performing at such a high level, and who have enjoyed real success, was a good kick up the backside.

"I have made 99 contacts and friends for life who have motivated me to really go for it with my music."

Badgering from friends, family and colleagues resulted in Curtis sending off an application form to take part in the show.

Within days, Curtis had auditioned in Glasgow and was chosen as one of only five Scottish judges.

He continued: "The concept of the show is really good because it puts a focus on the judging panel.

"The contestant sings up until a certain point and if we think there is something special there we can join in, hence why it's called All Together Now.

There were a few standout performers for me, but I won't give anything away."

The former student has always had a passion for singing which took off as a teen after watching Michael Buble in concert.

Ten years in dance academies and 15 years with local theatre group PACE, as well as playing the lead role in numerous school productions, gave Curtis the confidence to pursue music further.

While studying for an HNC in Music and Performance at the town's West College Scotland the music man, who counts Buble and Elvis Presley as his inspiration, was scouted by local production company, F3 Entertainments.

From there he joined The Jersey Tones, a successful Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons tribute act that tours the country.

"I'm a bass singer and at that time the company were looking for a voice like mine to join the group," Curtis said.

"That kind of music is the style I usually performed so it was perfect.

"I love singing with the group and doing solo gigs.

"Looking to 2018 I would like to make contact with a big band and get more solo performances under my belt."

With All Together Now due to air next month, the talented singer says mum Karen, dad James, sister Kelsey, 22, and brother Luca, nine, are proud of how far he has come.

"Everyone is really excited about me being on TV," Curtis added.

"Luca is especially looking forward to it. "He's at an age now where he understands TV, famous people and performing, so he's been telling all his friends and gets really excited when the trailer comes on.

 "I'm interested to see how it turns out too."

As Curtis gears up for making more music in the new year, his thoughts turn to giving back to the local community.

 "All Together Now has given me the push to gig a lot more and get back in the studio," he added.

"But I've always dreamed of setting up my own drama school in the area.

"Even if kids don't want to pursue a career in the arts, drama lessons teach confidence which has helped me get ahead so far. It's important to do work like this in the local area where it started for me, so we'll see what happens."

Article  & Photo credit: Paisley Daily Express