ASHLAND, Ky. — Isaac Adams had never entered a contest before, but has long been singing in his church. Adams has led the praise and worship service at the New Jerusalem Christian Center in Ironton for nearly 15 years. He said entering a contest was the last thing on his mind.

“I usually don’t do contests. But a lady at my church said I had to enter this, so I did,” Adams said. “This was just a great opportunity and I am really thankful. This is just beautiful.”

Adams was one of nearly 60 contestants for Paramount Arts Center’s first ever Tri-state Idol Singing Competition.

Adams sang “Bless My Soul.” As winner of the competition, he will get four tickets to see “Ain’t Misbehavin’” Tuesday night at the Paramount. He will perform at intermission and will get to go backstage and meet former American Idols and stars of the show, Ruben Studdard and Frenchie Davis.

Each contestant sang one minute a capella before professional judges. Videos of the top finalists performances were placed on the Paramount’s You Tube site for voting throughout the weekend.

More than 1,800 people visited the website and cast a vote for their singing favorite.