The Olympic Games are simply fascinating. It’s all about competition, preparation, and desire.

And every four years, when the Games come around, the media and the world is always, without a doubt, captivated. Perhaps our attraction to the age-old pastime of competition has to do with the fact that the relationship between the crowd and the competitor is interdependent.

The energy of the crowd fuels the competitor and vice versa. Somehow, as spectators, we end up feeling involved and connected…which is exactly the feeling I had when I attended my first Faces In The Crowd (FITC) live Hip-Hop and R&B music showcase.

Despite all of modern technology’s efforts to bring us the world via digital television, satellite radio, and 24/7 wireless Internet, there is still nothing better than being physically present and experiencing the moment (any moment) for the first time, live.

There is also a strong appeal in the element of surprise. When it comes to events happening then and now, you simply just don’t know what to expect.

I sure didn’t.

As I stepped into club Rebel, the current venue for the monthly FITC event, I immediately noticed the highly contagious energy that permeated the room. Through the dim nightlife lighting, I also observed that the stage was positioned in the front, the bar was located in the back, and a lively crowd filled the space in between.

With the DJ spinning on stage, two lively hosts continually entertained the multitude of people in attendance before introducing the next artist.

And then the next thing I knew, I was completely enthralled.

It wasn’t until later that I officially met Chalant (Jasmine Brito) and Reality (Jamaal Meeks), the masterminds behind the Faces In The Crowd showcase presented by All Is One Entertainment. FITC is a competition held every month where aspiring Hip-Hop and R&B talent have the opportunity to boost their career to the next level. By performing in front of influential top music industry professionals, artists are able to expand their fan-base and gain some serious notoriety in the industry.

“We have been a catalyst to help get artists signed,” Reality said. To date, signed artists include Chrisette Michele (Island Def Jam), Lil Peedi (Atlantic records), LIL Rok Playaz (Kedar/Universal records), and Lanz (Interscope).

Launched in 2004, FITC has been running for approximately four years. Ever since its earliest stages, hopeful artists have been competing in both the Hip-Hop and R&B category, and winners are announced in both.

Now fast-forward to less than half a decade later, and FITC is one of the hottest ongoing events in NYC. Held every third or fourth Tuesday of each month, FITC stands out in the underground urban music community, as the competition creates high awareness and noteworthy buzz for participating artists.

Finally, New Yorkers have more to look forward to each month than their wireless phone bill. If you think it takes nerves of steel to step into the spotlight, try producing the show.

Organized, entertaining, and professional, Chalant and Reality are completely dedicated to making each event a success. Responsible for managing the artists and covering all elements of the show from beginning to end, their venture is much like NYC: it never stops.

“This is a 24/7 job. There is no not returning phone calls or e-mails,” Chalant said.

However, when it comes to their business, one thing is certainly clear: They love what they do just as much as artists love to perform at their event. More than just a one-time affair, Chalant and Reality see their show as a way for artists to help one another establish themselves in a highly competitive industry.

And the perks for participating artists don’t stop at the end of the night. According to Reality, artist development is a top priority.

“We want to show the thread of how people develop and grow,” Chalant said.

Winners are guaranteed an entire exposure package: They get to return next month as the opening act and perform two songs, they are featured on the Faces Showcase website, a DVD of the show, and a clip on YouTube, as well as interviews and write-ups on various online media outlets.

However, don’t think that just anyone can hop up on stage and perform. The competition is tough. FITC is looking for artists who are industry-ready and can bring a substantial crowd. Auditions to qualify to compete are held three times each month, but you can check them out everyday at www.facesshowcase.com.

The next show is Tuesday, August 26th, so if you are in the NYC area, attending the next FITC event will be as riveting as watching Michael Phelps swim circles around his fellow Olympians.

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