American Idol Comes to Sacramento

I recently had the great fortune, much to the envy of my peers and teenage girls across the country, to interview five of the ten American Idol finalists that are part of the “American Idols Live!” Tour. With Sacramento as only their fourth stop on tour, the group of wide-eyed young musical artists were just getting over the excitement of being on a tour bus. I spoke with Season 8 winner, Kris Allen, and finalists Scott MacIntyer, Lil Rounds, Matt Giraud, and Danny Gokey.

The first contestant to endure my questions was Scott. Polite and well-spoken, his answers were calculated and distinct. When asked what one thing he wished he had on tour, he responded with, “a piano or keyboard to write music.” And if he could collaborate with any Idol from the past eight seasons, he’s choose Carrie Underwood because he’s “always had a heart for country music.” He would also love to write a song for the Jonas Brothers. Check him out at http://www.myspace.com/ScottMacIntyer.

Next was Lil’ Rounds. We chatted briefly about how she missed her children, but kept contact through Skype, the free software that allows users to make video and voice calls over the internet. I asked her what it takes to prepare her voice for two months of consistent performing. “You’ve got to really take care of yourself physically, and honestly, try not to talk as much. Drink lots of water and tea, and warm up your voice.” She hopes to get into the studio and begin recording her album once the tour ends.

Waiting in the wings, picking at a guitar he would soon autograph for some lucky fan, was Kris Allen. He and his magical smile walked over, shook my hand and sat down. For a brief moment, I found myself a bit nervous, with flashbacks to age five when I saw New Kids on the Block with my big sister, and age 14 when it was N’SYNC. My anxiety quickly settled as I realized how laid-back Kris was. I also asked him what he wished he had on tour, and he responded with “more books, since there’s some time to read.” If he wasn’t America’s favorite musician, his dream job would be a professional football player. And in the sparse “off” time he has on tour, he loves sleeping...so apparently he gets time for those football fantasies.

My fourth and most entertaining interviewee was Matt Giraud. The saved-by-the-judges idol contestant was upbeat and funny, commenting on my shoes and dress, and asking me if I liked his hat. Several more inquiries from him ensued, and I reminded him that I was the one asking questions. The jokester subsided and replied to another of my questions. If he could collaborate with an Idol contestant from any season, he would choose Jennifer Hudson because, as he put it, “she’s amazing.” And I agree. We then chatted about social media and networking and even became Twitter pals. He’s definitely making connections on the Web. What’s next for the goofball of the Idol clan? He will be hosting “Make The Cut,” an online reality contest for singers and vocalists on http://www.yobi.tv.

Press interviews were wrapping, and radio and TV personalities packing up their gear, and I was the last remaining press member left with one interview – Danny Gokey. An early favorite on the Idol stage, second runner up Gokey, has a “realness” about him that is evident by his warm smile and soft handshake. Our interview happened to be on the cusp of the one-year anniversary of his wife Sophia’s death. She lost her life during surgery for a heart condition in 2008. Although a few somber moments followed, Danny was refreshingly upbeat and excited about touring, and celebrating the amazing life that his late wife lived. He glowed as he told me of her love for children and the foundation he has begun in her honor, sophiasheart.org. On tour he looks forward to spreading the word about Sophia’s Heart and his passion for touching others with his music.

This group of young talent definitely displays zeal and enthusiasm for music, and my wish for each of them is that they each find their voice and share it, whether it be through song lyrics, composition, hosting a reality show, or through spreading awareness for a heartfelt cause...and I’m sure they will.

For more on the American Idol Summer Tour, check out:
http://www.americanidol.com/news/view/pid/1632

Blog post by Jenn Talley, Style Managing Editor.