UPPER MARLBORO, MD —Jerome Wayne, a 2001 graduate of Laurel High School, is the first winner of ABC's television show "Duets," a reality show that paired recording artists Kelly Clarkson, John Legend, Robin Thicke and Jennifer Nettles with aspiring singers.

Artists served as mentors in search of singers to serve as their duet partners for the show. Each singer performed a duet with the artist in front of a live studio audience.
 
Wayne was partnered with Nettles, a country singer with the duo Sugarland. Together, they entertained audiences with songs such as Sugarland’s “Tonight,” Michael Jackson’s “Pretty Young Thing,” and “You’re the One That I Want” from the musical “Grease.”

Known professionally as J Rome, Wayne landed a contract with Hollywood Records.