September 30, 2007

Columbia student wins spot in national singing competition

By MICHELLE HATFIELD

COLUMBIA -- Singing is always on Asia Davis' mind. The 21-year-old Columbia College student is headed to a national singing competition after winning the Mother Lode Idol and a statewide contest.

For winning California's contest, Davis received a $1,000 check, $10,000 in prizes, an expense-paid trip to nationals in the city of her choice, a shopping spree, makeover and voice lessons for a year. Davis said she prefers to work the talent search circuit instead of auditioning for American Idol-type shows because she likes performing.

If the singing gig produces results, Davis hopes to be in movies someday.

The 2004 Downey High School alumnae talked with The Bee about her experience.

Question: How long have you been belting out tunes?

Answer: I was 6, since I was a little midget. I saw Mariah Carey on TV, and from that moment on, I was just always singing. I was known as the one who sings in the hallways in high school. ... The energy exchange (with the audience) is the best thing in the world. I take that and run with it and give it right back to them.

Q: How did the local and state competitions go?

A: In May, my grandmother and I started training. I'd get up at 7 a.m. every morning and we'd run three miles, then I'd practice singing. I'd go until 5 p.m. nonstop, seven days a week. At the Tuolumne County Idol in Sonora in June, I sang "Red High Heels," "Trouble" and "Proud Mary." At the California State Fair Star Talent Search, "the competition was extremely fierce. I was up against people who won their own counties. There was some technical trouble and I had to sing another song, so I got off the stage not thinking I had a chance. But then they said my number and I couldn't believe it.

Q: What's your family's reaction?

A: They help with everything. Everyone brings something to the table.

Q: Is college or singing your top priority?

A: I'm a business major at Columbia. I want to transfer to Cal Poly Pomona or Cal State Fullerton.