CMT's Next Superstar: Matt Mason

 

Last week, Matt Mason was voted the winner of the first season of ‘CMT’s Next Superstar.’ The Fairland, Indiana native will receive a recording contract with Warner Music Nashville’s Elektra imprint and will be an opening act for headliner Luke Bryan at this fall’s CMT on Tour. Mason’s victory was announced at the end of the show’s hour-long season finale, which included a special performance by Broadway actress and ‘Glee’ star Kristin Chenoweth.

 

Upon winning, Mason expressed his gratitude, saying, "It’s all very surreal. I've wanted this for so long. I couldn't be more grateful for this opportunity and look forward to making the most of it. Huge thanks to everyone who voted for me." John Esposito, president and CEO of Warner Music Nashville, is also looking forward to this winner’s career, stating, “I am thrilled to have Matt join the Warner Music Nashville family.”

 

Produced by Nigel and Simon Lythgoe, ‘CMT’s Next Superstar’ differs from other singing competitions in that contestants must not only sing, but are also put through a series of ‘challenges’ that relate to the music business, which can include anything from songwriting to shooting music videos. A new group of contestants will have the opportunity to compete when the show returns to CMT for its second season in late 2011.