John Rich launched his new Get Rich Talent Search Monday night in Nashville with 10 acts competing for prize money that came straight from John's own wallet. John pulled together a stellar panel of seven judges, including Bill Bennett, the head of Warner Bros. Nashville; Scott Hendricks, who produces Chris Cagle; and Vicky McGehee, co-writer of "Hicktown" and "When I Think About Cheatin'."

The club was packed for the event, which will continue on the last Monday of every month at 12th & Porter, a club where Sugarland gave the performance that netted their recording contract in 2003.

John used to attend a similar contest at a club called the Broken Spoke when he first moved to town as a teenager, and it had a lasting effect on him.

"Judy Martin ran the event; she gave me my first opportunity to play in town," John recalls. "I watched artists like Tracy Lawrence perform, and it gave me an idea of what was out there at the time and to see what kind of talent I was up against. It was one of the best things to help me grow as an artist. I hope this talent search will give people the start and the break they need to do what they love."

Delilah Why, a four-piece rock band based in Music City, swiped the $300 grand prize Monday. Nikki Williams claimed $200 for finishing second, and Tyler Dickerson picked up $100 after placing third.