Welcome to the Judges Panel
Here you will find the panel of judges for the NM State Fair Karaoke Competition. Who they are, what they look like, and their musical background. Being the Karaokeist is more than being a great vocalist!.....that's what they are looking for!
Welcome to the Judges Panel
Here you will find the panel of judges for the NM State Fair Karaoke Competition. Who they are, what they look like, and their musical background. Being the Karaokeist is more than being a great vocalist!.....that's what they are looking for!
2018 Judges Panel
Jeanette Lussier - Judge Director

​Musical Background:


I love music and especially the lyrics. I was a fill in judge for the NMSF Karaoke Competition in 2014 and learned a lot about how to listen for key, and what they are looking for when it comes to the best karaokeists. I learned how to look for timing, knowledge and audience interaction,the key ingredients in top performing karaoke champion.  


I love to see other people sing and how well they do and how creative they can get with the song.


I'm honest and fair and a passionate person.  
I have 12+ years in the music industry.  I have experience as a talent scout, A&R song writer, and manager. I look forward to the NMSF karaoke competition every year. 

Having experience as a judge in the competition, I know the dedication it takes to making this competition fun and successful.

We are judging only on the key, timing, how well you know the song, and audience interaction. This should be fun! 
Sammy Montano
I'm a music producer and performer. I recorded produced a CD in 1995. I've also written and produced other artists in New Mexico.

I believe I have a lot of experience and can offer an objective assessment of talent.

I talso have previous experience judging at the New Mexico State Fair Karaoke Showcase
Linda Coca
During the majority of my school years, I received musical and singing training. I made it through boot camp on a high note!

My passion of music and early voice training, opened the doors to Voice Over Acting. Voice acting lead to acting on stage. I felt at home on stage and my higher education ended up in a Digital Media Degree. Being in front of the camera is amazing but, being behind the lens is my favorite. 
I was in a competing improve group for 12 years. I have also produced, directed, acted, wrote, and sampled every department and job within the world of digital media. My specialty would be in stage presence and voice expression for this competition. Plus, my singing experience and musical knowledge.

Valerie R. Mirabal
I judged the 2015 NM State Fair karaoke contest, attended karaoke about once a month and throw karaoke events for NM film cast and crew members.

I love working the competition, meeting all the new people and making great friends.

I bring awesome energy to the judges table.

Samuel Barber
I began playing saxaphone in middle school. Joined band in high school and played a variety of different instruments in marching and jazz band. 

Studied music at NMSU and volunteered as a radio DJ on 89.1 FM here in Albuquerque.I have always enjoyed karaoke so it would be a great experience to be involved with something that I enjoy.

I believe that my musical background and experience will help me spot out the great talent that is out there.

Nathaniel Martinez
I played musical instruments during my childhood years. 

I cannot sing well but I love everything about music. I absolutely love the talent NM has to offer.

I am a good judge as I am honest and fair.

Gina CDe Baca
I have held numerous titles within the pageant world and have been a two-time National Title holder.  
My passion is to see others succeed! I look forward to critiquing as well as help improving others in this karaoke season.  
I'm a two time cancer survivor and often speak out on issues such as cancer, and domestic abuse in the community. 

If you would like to reach out to me for more information, feel free to reach out to me via e-mail at: enchantmentps@gmail.com
Gaenor Thompson