The Blue Rooster on the Square in Murfreesboro was the place to be May 18. Twelve contestants gave their best efforts to be the winner of the $500 prize and the official Murfreesboro 2010 Idol. The Blue Rooster is known for hosting various events from Wii bowling competitions to concerts, but that night it brought a crowd to see who would be crowned the best in karaoke.

Beyonce and Carrie Underwood were not in attendance for the karaoke finals, but their music was at full blast as contestants performed their best renditions. For seven weeks, contestants went head to head, but only one would be crowned Murfreesboro 2010 Idol.

Brandon Bell sang his heart out on Michael Buble’s “Feel Good,” and won the title of Murfreesboro Idol, and $500.

Bell went on to say, “I’m extremely happy I won. I was surprised.”

From beginning to end, he delivered with great vocals and stage presence. The judges were pretty tough: a tour manager, college professor, and journalist from The Murfreesboro Pulse based the performances on stage presence, audience participation and vocals. A couple of participants seemed upset about not winning, but in all, everyone seemed to have a great time.