1. Vocal Accuracy:
- How well the impersonator matches the original singer's vocal tone, pitch, and overall vocal quality.
2. Timbre and Mannerisms:
- The accuracy in reproducing the distinct vocal timbre, accents, and vocal mannerisms of the original singer.
3. Stage Presence and Performance:
- The performer's ability to capture the original singer's stage presence, energy, and charisma during the performance.
4. Interpretation and Authenticity:
- How authentically the impersonator interprets the song, capturing the emotions, phrasing, and nuances of the original singer.
5. Visual Elements:
- For impersonations that include visual aspects, the accuracy of the performer's costume, makeup, and overall physical appearance to resemble the original singer.
6. Song Choice and Difficulty:
- The complexity and level of difficulty of the selected song, considering the original singer's vocal range and style.
7. Overall Impression:
- The overall impact and connection the impersonator makes with the audience through their performance.
8. Creativity:
- While staying true to the original singer, the impersonator might add personal touches or creative elements to their performance.
9. Audience Response:
- The level of engagement and positive response from the audience during and after the performance.
10. Technical Proficiency:
- The technical aspects of the impersonation, such as intonation, vocal control, and stagecraft.
11. Authenticity of Expression:
- How genuinely the impersonator conveys the emotions, passion, and energy of the original singer's performance.
12. Connection to the Original:
- The extent to which the impersonator establishes a connection with the original singer's musical style, personality, and artistic essence.
13. Uniqueness:
- Impersonators are evaluated based on their ability to bring something new and unique to their impersonation.
14. Costume and Styling:
- For impersonators who do visual impersonations, judges might assess the accuracy and attention to detail in their costumes and styling.
15. Overall Entertainment Value:
- Ultimately, the goal of the song impersonation contest is to entertain the audience, so the overall enjoyment factor and the ability to engage the crowd are important criteria.
The specific criteria used in a particular contest may vary depending on the competition's format, rules, and judging panel's preferences.