Allie Rae singing "Heads California, Tails California" at the John Ritter Tribute Showcase on Aug. 9, 2024 (Elizabeth Pinkston/Panola Watchman)

Talent of all ages stepped up to compete for the title of Texas Country Music Hall of Fame Ambassador at the John Ritter Tribute Showcase.

The night was alive with country hits like “There Goes My Heart” and “You Ain’t Woman Enough.” Thirty contestants of various ages and backgrounds dazzled at the Carthage Civic Center.

Emcee Linda Davis, country music sweetheart and Grammy-Award winning artist, took the time to introduce each contestant and cheer them on. The Texas Country Music Hall of Fame Band created a rich sound to help singers put on their best show. Guest performances from 2022 and 2023 winners Chase Dawson and Mary Clare Foley made the night even more special.

Second runner-up, Abby Nabors, sung “Forgive,” impressing both the judges and the crowd.

Luke Moody took the stage with his fiddle and confidence; his stage presence and voice was enough to win awards for audience choice and first runner-up. His performance of “Heart over Mind” would’ve made Mel Tillis proud.

Landan Elmore dedicated his song to anyone that has lost a loved one and blew the crowd away with the first verse. With his goose-bump-giving rendition of “Go Rest High On the Mountain,” the judges chose Elmore as first-place winner and new ambassador for the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame.