Paulino is an official nominee for Song of the Year – Rock Artist at the 12th Annual Josie Music Awards, recognized for his single “Don’t Give Up On Me.” The ceremony takes place September 20 at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, placing Paulino among a competitive field of independent rock artists honored this year.
The nomination arrives during a breakout year for Paulino, best known as the powerhouse lead vocalist of Paulino & The Great Escape, one of the country’s premier Journey tribute acts. His vocal resemblance to Steve Perry has become the band’s calling card, built on a career that includes turns as a “Star of the Day” and finalist on the New England television series Community Auditions. This July, Paulino & The Great Escape made their Nashville debut at The Troubadour, bringing their high-energy tribute to Journey’s classic catalog — “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Faithfully,” “Open Arms,” and more — to a new audience in Music City.
“Don’t Give Up On Me” marks a different side of Paulino’s artistry, stepping outside the tribute stage to showcase his own original material. The Song of the Year nomination in the Rock Artist category recognizes exactly that kind of songwriting and vocal craft, judged on merit rather than industry backing — a distinction that has made the Josie Music Awards one of the most respected honors in independent music.
For an artist who has spent his career channeling one of rock’s most iconic voices, the nomination is a milestone that stands on his own name.
Paulino is nominated for Song of the Year – Rock Artist at the 12th Annual Josie Music Awards, September 20 at the Grand Ole Opry House.