Meet Sabrina Gogan – 2012 Country Idol Winner

In 2010, Sabrina Gogan graduated UMass Amherst with a degree in Theater and Communications.  Now, in 2012 the Pittsfield, Massachusetts native can add 'Country Idol' to her resume.

On June 21, 2012 26 finalists competed for $5,000 and the title of WGNA's Country Idol. In the end, the judges selected Sabrina Gogan.  Like many of our listeners, we wanted to know more about this Northeast Country Hopeful!

Why did you select 'All Jacked Up' and 'Like My Mother Does'?

I knew song selection was going to be the most important part and the more versatility, the better. "All Jacked Up" seemed like the perfect upbeat song because it has the potential to grab the audience with the first note, tells a story to keep them engaged throughout, and ends on a high note to hopefully make them remember it. I chose "Like My Mother Does" as my ballad because the lyrics really hit home for me and I could connect with it emotionally. It's a song that everyone can relate to with some sort of maternal figure in their lives.

What did you do to prepare for your performance?

I go to karaoke once a week in my hometown to get as much practice as I can onstage. About a week before the finals I sang these two songs so much I can almost guarantee everyone in my house never wanted to hear them again.

What was your favorite performance of the night?

One of the reasons I love country music so much is because of how patriotic it can be and how a simple song can give you a sense of community. I got that sensation during Steve Thomas' "American Soldier" with the entire crowd on their feet with their hats off to that brave man and incredible singer. My other favorite moment of the night was Loreal Lavigna's breathtaking performance of "Independence Day". I got the chills the moment her voice rang through those speakers.

Do you plan to pursue a career in music?

When I decided to go to school for theater instead of music it was because I was scared to take something that I held so close to my heart and work it like a machine, but music has always been my number one dream. I got back from experiencing Nashville a few months ago, and I've been songwriting for more years than I've been singing. It'll be hard to leave the familiarity of my home but I feel like I owe it to myself to get out there and at least try to pursue a career in music. My goal is to move out to Nashville, TN or Austin, TX by the end of this year.

What's the first thing that went through your mind when your name was called as the winner?

I'm pretty sure I blacked out when I realized I had won, haha. I was in shock, excited, hopeful, and I just wanted to throw my arms around everyone. I was in disbelief even when I woke up this morning. I'm SO incredibly grateful for the opportunity and honored to share that stage with such a talented group of people. The kind words I received from the judges, friends, family, and audience are some of the things I'll never forget.