Rochdale singer one step away from stardom

Emma Johnson

A 15-year-old singer from Rochdale has made it through to the final stage of a nationwide music competition.

Emma Johnson from Norden has made it through to the final of Open Mic UK which takes place at the O2 Arena.

Ms Johnson, a pupil at Oulder Hill High School, is now preparing to sing a song in the finals which could change her life.

The teen wowed the judges at the initial audition, where 8,000 people entered. She proceeded to win them over at the regional and area finals.

Now she is just a step away from winning a record deal.

Speaking to Rochdale Online Ms Johnson said: “It is so exciting. I have liked singing since I was little but I have only started singing properly over the last few months.

“When they said my name I couldn’t believe it.”

This is the first time the singer has entered a competition like this. At the area finals she sang ‘If I aint got you’ by Alicia Keys.

Speaking about singing on one of the biggest music platforms in the country – the prestigious O2 Arena, Ms Johnson said: “I’m nervous and a bit scared but I’m really excited too – it will be such an experience.”

Of course everyone in the final wants to win – but what would it mean to the Rochdale girl? “I really don’t know – I’ve always wanted to be a singer – It would just be a dream come true!”

Mum, Jacquie, said: “This is her first ever singing competition, we are over the moon.

“At each stage Emma has taken a following of around 40 people. I can’t remember what I did when they said her name; I don’t know if I screamed first or jumped up, it was just unbelievable.

“Now it is about picking a song and practising it, she is just one song away.

“She has worked so hard she deserves it.”

Ms Johnson isn’t the only Rochdale talent in the contest. Lewis Brannigan, 22, also from Norden is now preparing for the final:

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/50384/rochdale-singer-heads-to-the-o2-for-final