Clarence Simms likes to sing. A lot. The Jackson State University sophomore vocal performance major was recently selected as one of 31 contestants across the nation competing to sing with R&B sensation Chris Brown on a one-hour BET 106 & Park Christmas special.
"It's so wild," Simms said. "I can't believe that I could possibly have an opportunity to sing with Chris Brown."
During the Mississippi State Fair in Jackson earlier this month, Simms entered a promotional contest hosted by Jackson Radio, which includes WKXI, WJMI and WOAD radio stations, to promote the holiday movie "This Christmas," set to hit theaters in November. Simms sang Donny Hathaway's popular holiday song, "This Christmas," beating out eight other contestants. He will be the only person from Mississippi to advance to the next round.
"I want to win because I have never wanted to be a singer for the money or fame, Simms said. "For me, it's the thrill of being on stage before people, entertaining them. Since I never get too many opportunities for something like this, I'm willing to take the risk."
The contest is hosted on the Internet, which means supporters must vote for each competitor. The top three competitors who receive the most votes will be selected to appear on the BET video show.
To view Clarence Simms singing "This Christmas," or to vote, log on to http://thischristmas.icmodus.com
The "This Christmas" contest is featured on www.aol.com.
