Southern Roots Smokehouse wraps up an 8-week singer/songwriter competition
by Lorne Chambers | Editor
Applause filled Southern Roots Smokehouse on April 9 as the final notes rang out and judges crowned local musician Josh Rowe the first-ever champion of the Smokin’ Showcase, an eight-week singer/songwriter competition that turned Thursday nights into must-see local music events in West Ashley.
Starting back in February, Southern Roots launched the Smokin’ Showcase as an open invitational, welcoming all performers to compete. Dozens of artists entered the preliminary rounds, with two advancing each week. By March, the contest shifted into dramatic knockout rounds, pitting one songwriter against another in front of packed crowds.
“We were trying to capture the excitement and unpredictable nature of the NCAA basketball tournament, a March Madness for singer/songwriters, if you will,” said local radio personality Jim “The Critic” Voigt, who served as a judge throughout the series.
The concept clearly connected.
“We were definitely pleasantly surprised by the turnout,” Voigt said. “We discovered an array of talent, artistry, and style in the current music scene. I was impressed by the tasty chord changes, the clever wordplay, and the commanding stage presence of many of the locals.”
When the smoke cleared, Rowe stood as the final winner.
“It still feels a little surreal, honestly,” said Rowe. “I’ve just been out here playing a lot of shows over the years, so to have something like this happen is pretty humbling. There were a lot of great artists in it, so it means a lot to be part of that. I feel like I’ve always been one of those people who never really wins these kinds of things, so it makes it even more meaningful.”
Voigt said Rowe’s steady performances helped separate him from a strong field.
“Josh was, by far, the most consistent songwriter in the competition,” he said.
For Rowe, the victory adds another chapter to a life story already marked by extraordinary resilience.
In December 2020, Rowe was living in Nashville and pursuing music full time while working side jobs, including driving for Uber. During one ride in West Nashville, he was shot in the head during a robbery and left for dead on the side of the road.
Against staggering odds, Rowe survived. Doctors later said the bullet’s path narrowly missed his brain. Within months, he was back to singing and playing guitar.
Now based in Charleston, Rowe says the city has helped him rebuild.
“Charleston has really been a place of healing for me the last few years,” he said. “Coming here gave me a chance to reset, connect with people, and just be part of a really supportive community. I’ve met some of the best people here, and that’s been a big part of keeping me going.”
As part of the grand prize, Rowe won a three-track demo recording session at Scout Alley Studio, something he says he’s eager to put to use.
“I’m really looking forward to the studio time. I want to use it to record some songs I feel really strong about, especially one I played in the competition called ‘Pretty Pearl,’” Rowe said, adding that Voigt’s promise to play the song on 105.5 The Bridge gave him extra motivation.
Voigt was already sold on the tune.
“His song ‘Pretty Pearl’ was my favorite original in the showcase. Catchy, bright chords, heartfelt lyrics,” he said. “I hope he can get a backing band to help him record that. It definitely has radio potential.”
The runner-up prize went to local performer Noopsie, who received a trip for two to Wicked Weed Brewing, one of the contest sponsors. Noah Hall, another standout throughout the competition, earned third place along with cash and prizes.
Additional sponsors included Maker’s Mark, Jim Beam, Rusty Bull Brewing Co., Estuary Beans & Barley, and Suntory Minus 196.
Rowe also made sure to credit the venue for creating a platform for area musicians.
“I’m really grateful to Southern Roots for putting something like this together and supporting local artists,” he said.
Voigt echoed that sentiment and hopes the event continues in some form.
“Kudos also go to the entire Southern Roots staff for doing all the legwork and securing the amazing prizes and sponsors,” he said. “Hopefully, they’ll be able to turn the success of the Smokin’ Showcase into a viable weekly or monthly singer/songwriter series.”
If the response from audiences over the past two months is any indication, West Ashley would welcome an encore.
For more information on the Smokin’ Showcase winner, Josh Rowe, visit his website www.joshrowe.net.
