19 Days to American Idol

“Be sure of yourself. Know who you are and no matter if you make it, you know in your heart you are still a star.”

-- George Huff, www.americanidol.com


Season 3 of American Idol was what I consider to be a mediocre season, especially where male talent was concerned. On the heels of Ruben’s upset win over Clay the previous year, the women stepped up and greatly overshadowed the men. George Huff was that season’s last man standing, and he was voted off in 5th place.

I remember George as talented singer who struggled throughout the season with consistency and confidence. His greatest strength, other than his deep soulful voice, was his personality. He radiated warmth, sincerity, and positivity. He was one of those performers who took the judges’ advice to heart. From week to week, you could tell that he worked to improve upon his weaknesses. And improve, he did. He was an underdog, for sure, up against the likes of LaToya London, Jennifer Hudson, Fantasia Barrino, and Diana DeGarmo; but when he chose the right song and connected with the audience, he made quite the impression. By the end of his run in the competition, he had come into his own.

Today’s entry goes out to Natala, who sang his praises when I first told her about my plans for the countdown and reminded me of the magic he brought to the American Idol stage.