Since its inception in 2009, Spectra Showcase & Career Launch (formerly known as "Queer Idol") has crowned three talented artists:
AMY LEWIS (Top Vocalist, 2011)
Born and raised in sunny Newmarket, Amy started singing in high school musical theatre productions. Since then, she has performed at gigs and fundraisers at The Revival and Lula Lounge.
Amy is influenced by all genres of music, but has a special admiration for Pat Benatar, Blondie, Stevie Nicks, Joan Jett, and Concrete Blonde, Adele, Serena Ryder and Sara Bareilles.
According to Amy, "My [Spectra] experience was so inspirational and eye opening. It helped renew my drive and passion towards my craft. Spectra supported me to find “other sides” of my voice and finally put pen to paper. This was a frightening experience, but what I was able to create, which I never thought I could, was amazing and made me want to start creating more of my own lyrics and music".
Amy has an Undergraduate Degree in the Arts and has spent ten years helping aesthetically modify people’s bodies with the art of piercing. Today, she serves her community as a Paramedic.
Stacey has been singing for as long as she can remember. Born into a musical family, her grandmother was a soprano and her father was a singer/pianist.
The music she most connects with is soul, R&B, gospel and Motown. Her biggest influence and inspiration has been Mariah Carey. She also loves Aretha Franklin, Christina Aguilera, Whitney Houston, Beyonce, and Jennifer Hudson.
According to Stacey, "[Spectra] was one of the most amazing experiences for me. I met some amazing people and the event really helped me come out of my shell."
The highlight of her performance career was at Pride 2009, where she performed in a line-up that included Esthero and Deborah Cox (who she loves).
Stacey's ultimate goal is to create an album. She's currently working with Juno Award winning record producer, Gavin Bradley, on her debut single.
