‘Hamilton Mall’s Got Talent!’ Names New Champion

Meet Vanessa DeJean. The vocalist knocked out 14 other contestants to be named champion of 'Hamilton Mall's Got Talent!'.

The Top 15 finalists from 5 weeks of competition at Hamilton Mall in Mays Landing took the stage one last time Thursday night in hopes of winning the $1,500 Grand Prize.

After a variety of performances including singing, magic, and original music, 14-year-old Vanessa DeJean's rendition of Whitney Houston's 'One Moment In Time' scored the highest.

The Absecon teen, who plans to pursue a career in music, told SoJO that Houston is her idol, and that the lyrics in the song she chose to sing really spoke to her. She plans to put her winnings towards her education.

The finale's runner-up was singer/songwriter Rylee Oswald, who performed her own song 'Hold Onto Me', and third place went to magician John Hoey, who brought  bunnies, chicks, and a snake as part of his routine.

I can tell you having been on the judges' panel 4 of the 6 weeks that Season 4 of 'Hamilton Mall's Got Talent!' was the most competitive yet. Congratulations to all the contestants who poured their heart and soul into the performances each week.

Thanks to Hamilton Mall, Macys, and Center Stage Entertainment for another great collaboration!