“I never thought I’d win,” she said moments after receiving a $1,000 check.
Drawing the last performance spot in the 10-week karaoke-style competition, Leonard selected the catchy “Uptown Funk” track by Bruno Mars as her final song. With a Bootsy Collins-style approach, Leonard lit Blondie’s Trophy Room on fire, solidifying her spot as crowd favorite.
“I couldn’t have picked a better way to end this competition,” said Idol judge Brad Sitton.
The audience vote helped catapult Leonard as she defeated runner-up Mary Hess, a local musician, by less than two points. High school student Tiffany Marie finished third.
“I’m not surprised by the results,” said Idol disc jockey J.R. Stafford, who directed the competition.
Stafford said Hess was the more consistent front-runner leading into the final round of competition, but her performance slipped Wednesday night while Leonard’s shined.
“Rhed stole the show,” said Stafford.
Leonard said she would use her cash award to help fund her disabled brother’s aspiration to record an album.
“Everybody that makes music deserves a chance to record it,” she said. “I want to help those that are nearest and dearest to me fulfill their musical dreams.”
Leonard, a 46-year-old mother of three adult children, offered encouragement to her peers.
“Never give up on what you want to do,” she said. “If you have a talent and a dream, then you should pursue it. It’s never too late.”
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