A Cincinnatian has made it to the top 10 finalists in the “Most Talented Beard in America“ contest.
Organizers say hundreds of fuzzy-faced hopefuls sent in videos of themselves showing off their talents and their faces. While the contest’s sponsor, Wahl, chose the finalists, the public can help select the winner.
Grady Burton is a full-time musician in Cincinnati whose facial hair and guitar playing may help him win $20,000 and the title of Wahl “Man of the Year.” Below, watch his video for “Walk This World.”
Here’s how the press release describes the other nine finalists :
- Ben Tajnai from Milwaukee, WI, has graced thousands with his angelic voice, most notably singing the National Anthem for the brew city’s professional sports teams.
- John Stessel from Woodbridge, NJ, showcases his magician skills with a number of trick shots and illusions — all in one take.
- Lance Allen from Smyrna, TN, amazes as his fingers fly over his guitar and he shares an original Celtic composition.
- Ben Davis Jr. from Chillicothe, OH, is a singer-songwriter whose down-home song is accompanied by his acoustic guitar.
- Daniel Shilling from Joplin, MO, proves that the bluegrass isn’t just for hillbillies, with his sophisticated banjo-playing skills.
- Collin Smith from Omaha, NE, is a multi-talented marvel whose skills include smooth guitar playing, skateboarding, standing backflips and fire juggling.
- Art Machuca from Los Angeles, CA, is a professional singer and musician who brings his original song to life with his smoky vocals.
- Joshua Conway from Marlow, OK, uses his pottery and painting talents to turn clay into beautiful works of art.
- Mitchell Donahue from Round Rock, TX, proves that dogs are man’s best friend by showcasing his dog training talent and frisbee tricks.
“The goal of this contest is to shine a spotlight on entertainers and achievers who make the world a better, or ‘bearder,’ place to live,” said Steven Yde, division vice president for Wahl. “We were blown away by the excitement the contest generated last year and the life-changing impact the prizes had on the exemplary men who won. Our hope is to keep the positive momentum rolling, so we’re once again calling on the American people to help us name the winners this year.”
Vote for Burton as the “Most Talented Beard in America.”
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This article appears in Sep 15-28, 2021.