Mercy Contact: Lauren Geloso, senior associate director of public relations, 914.674.7596, [email protected]

As online auditions are streaming in for this season’s DISCOVERED: The Unsigned Artist Competition, one of last season’s finalists has released his debut original single, “Tightrope.”  Danny Spadaro, the 18-year old pop-singing sensation, delivered an unforgettable live performance at the 2011 season finale of DISCOVERED.  The New Jersey native earned his spot in the finale after being an overwhelming choice of thousands of online fans across the country.

Spadaro will receive a professionally produced album as well promotion and distribution support through the DISCOVERED recording label, operated by Mercy College.

“I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember,” said Danny Spadaro.  “Mercy College provided me with an opportunity to produce music and learn first-hand from professionals in the music industry.  The experience was amazing and made my dream a reality.  I would urge anyone who has ever wanted to chase their dreams not to miss the chance to be discovered.”

The newly released single displays Spadaro’s penchant for crafting catchy hooks and memorable melodies.  Spadaro’s guitar playing prowess and distinctive vocals are also evident throughout the track.  To download “Tightrope” please visit all online retailers, including iTunes and Amazon.

DISCOVERED invites entrants, ages 14-26 residing anywhere in the Unites States, to upload a YouTube video recording of themselves singing to the DISCOVERED website. Contestants, as well as all visitors to the DISCOVERED website, are encouraged to vote for their favorite entrants through March 17, 2012.

Top contestants with the highest vote total will move on to the semi-final round to compete head-to-head for a place in the live finale.  The finale will feature the top ten contestants with the highest combined total votes, and will be held at Mercy College on April 28, 2012.

“Danny is an extremely talented singer/songwriter and we’re very excited about his potential,” said Paul Steinman, Mercy College Music Industry and Technology Program Director.  “That is the beauty of the DISCOVERED contest: not only does it showcase new performing artists, but it provides the winners a rare opportunity to work with music professionals in our recording studio and then share their work with the world.”
For official DISCOVERED contest rules, or to submit an audition video, visit http://www.discoveredauditions.com/.