Entrepreneur sisters Vanessa and Angela Simmons and brothers Antonio, Jr. and Aaron Reid continue their family legacies in the music industry with an innovative way to expose more talent that falls behind the musical radar.

The idea of showcasing new talent originated less than a year ago with Vanessa, Angela, Antonio, Jr. and Aaron. Reid & Simmons New Voices Tour (www.newvoicestour.com), created by the Simmons’ sisters and the Reid brothers, puts the talent of unsung singers and musicians on the forefront and gives them an opportunity to network within the music industry.

“We wanted to keep our family’s legacy going, to showcase new artists on a national level and what they’re all about,” says Vanessa. “We all grew up around music, so this is a natural progression for us.”

In each city, musical talents of all ages and genres of music compete for a chance to advance and perform at the New York finale in early fall, judged by music legends Antonio “LA” Reid and Joseph “Rev Run” Simmons. Some of the celebrity judges in the selected cities include multi-platinum artists Rick Ross, DJ Khaled and Jazze Pha, and executives in the music industry such as BU of Def Jam Records, Debra Antney of Mizay Entertainment and others.

Each audition gets a 90 – 180 second time slot in which a contestant can perform two or three songs. Judges in these auditions include musical celebrities and executives in the industry. Instruments are allowed and must accompany the contestant at the time of the audition.

The winner will earn an artist development deal with the A & R Factory. Other prizes include a recording budget, a full makeover by a celebrity stylist, a private showcase with some of the top recording labels in the music industry and a write-up in a major music website and/or magazine. Selected contestants will also be chosen to compete on BET’s 106 & Park’s “Wild Out Wednesday.”

Vanessa adds that this concept serves a great purpose for revealing talent for those who don’t have the opportunity to get exposure. The competitions are also held in cities where some may overlook talented musicians, such as San Diego, Cleveland, Orlando, Dallas and Washington D.C.

“We chose cities with untapped markets in the music scene that have talented people,” comments Vanessa. “We get tired of hearing the same 10 songs on the radio. It’s all about giving people what they deserve. We want to give talent a chance to have a scene.”

Angela adds this showcase is a great opportunity for contestants, whether or not they advance in the contest, to collaborate and network with various A & R representatives.

“It’s all about being at the right place at the right time and getting connected,” says Angela.

“I want people to be excited about this opportunity,” comments Vanessa. “We know there are lots of talented people out there.”

For more specific questions about auditions, send your emails to info@newvoicestour.com.This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it