Chris Young crowned new ‘Nashville Star’

20-year-old singer wins recording contract, Grand Ole Opry appearance

	Chris Young, right, is congratulated by finalist Casey Rivers after being picked the new “Nashville Star” winner on Tuesday.
John Russell / AP

updated 11:19 a.m. ET May 3, 2006

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Chris Young of Murfreesboro, Tenn., beat out two other finalists to win the fourth edition of the “Nashville Star” talent search series.

The 20-year-old singer was chosen by viewers Tuesday night. Vote totals weren’t immediately announced.

Young won a recording contract with the RCA Label Group, plus other prizes, including an appearance on the Grand Ole Opry.

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“The whole time, I’ve just been trying to get to this moment,” he said moments after the show ended. “You can’t beat fan-voted competition.”

Other finalists were Casey Rivers, 23, of Lindale, Texas, and Nicole Jamrose, 34, of Schererville, Ind.

The finalists were chosen from 10 contestants culled from tens of thousands of hopefuls during a nationwide talent search.

Wynonna Judd and Cowboy Troy hosted the show’s fourth season. Phil Vassar was one of the judges.

The USA network series, which combines elements of reality TV with a talent competition, has launched the recording careers of Buddy Jewell and Miranda Lambert.

Young, who will do a concert tour this summer, also won a Chevy truck. “I’ve got to get that truck to the lake,” he said.