Exclusive: Disney Channel Premieres New Season of N.B.T.
Cody Simpson, Shealeigh
Disney Channel and Radio Disney are looking for the next big youth pop sensation. The sister cable and radio networks will launch the fifth season of their music talent competition, N.B.T. (Next Big Thing) next month during the original TV-movie Girl vs. Monster (airing Friday, Oct. 12 at 8/7c).
Among the prizes for this year's winner: A performance on the Disney Channel sitcom Austin & Ally; a single release through Disney Music Group; and a slot along side Radio Disney recording artists at the N.B.T. finale concert.
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All of the contestants are between the ages of 12 and 17. Among the contenders are R&B artists Chloe and Halle Bailey; acoustic singer Katherine Hughes; R&B singer/dancer Damian Otchere; modern rocker Jack Skuller; and pop singer Elle Winter. Each artist's first singles will debut September 17 on Radio Disney, and become available for sale on iTunes on September 25.
Besides performing their own singles throughout the season, N.B.T. artists will also cover popular hits and work with mentors such as pop star Cher Lloyd ("Want U Back") and Austin & Ally stars Ross Lynch and Laura Marano.
Season 5 voting starts on Friday, Oct. 26; fans will be able to vote 10 times per day per platform (including Facebook, texting and website). Here's a preview this season:
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