Robert Ewart fulfilling childhood dream in ‘Digicel Rising Stars’

Grenada-born Robert Ewart is excited about being called back to the Digicel Rising Stars stage after not receiving enough votes to move on. Resident judges, singer Alaine, ASHE director Conroy Wilson and television producer Anthony Miller, announced Ewart's return on Sunday.

"I never expected to hear the judges or anyone from production call me back to be a 'wildcard' so that my journey can continue," Ewart told THE STAR.

The 21-year-old singer was born to Jamaican pastors Robert Ewart Sr and Juliet Ewart. He said that campaigning to get votes has been one of the most challenging aspects of the competition, and having been given a second chance, he expects plans to play his cards differently.

"My strategy then was to get up earlier than usual, to go on the road and campaign, but it was not always easy, especially since I have work. I was also sick one week," he said.

"Now I'm going all in. I have another chance, and although I am a shy person, people can expect to hear and see more of me as I make an effort to engage the people and get the votes I need," he said.

Ewart shared that he is channelling "Christopher Martin energy". Martin won Digicel Rising Stars in 2005. The popular reggae-dancehall singer and songwriter is known for songs like Mama, Big Deal and You'll Never Find.

Although he made a mistake during his performance of Celine Dion's Power of Love, Ewart said he believes voters have recognised his potential.

"I picked it up in the second part of the song, singing the lyrics 'I'm your lady" was a bit hilarious to me. I have learnt to laugh at myself," he said.

Ewart's parents were in the studio audience on Sunday. His father said that they were excited to see him perform, noting that he has always had his sights set on performing in the competition.

"He has always said that getting on Digicel Rising Stars is his dream. As a child, he would perform along with his brothers. Our family just wants him to keep focused," the senior Ewart said.