Close encounter with an American Idol

The guy next to me is “invited” by the group of Borneo tribal dancers onto the stage, joining them in the fire-eating dance. Shows like this always like to pull someone from the audience to embarrass them or to make fun of them. The one being hailed on stage is suppose to be happier afterwards.

Hey, wait a minute. I recognize him. He is Kris Allen, the 2008 American Idol winner. From the newspapers I know that he is here in town to promote his new album. Tonight must be one of his night out together with his staffs (personal assistant, entourage, PR personnel etc) And all along, he was standing right next to me. “It’s the American Idol.” I told my friend. But he does not know nor recognizes him. Same for the rest of the audience. I don’t blame them. Even for me, a die-hard fan of the “American Idol” series, did not notice Kris Allen by my side until he was hailed up to stage.

He is really a simple, down to earth guy-next-door. Wearing just a plain white T-shirt and a pair of faded jeans, he blends in so well with everyone next to him. He is not loud nor interested in calling attention. This is the charm that made more than 40 million Americans telephoned to vote for him last year. Not an easy feat at all.

I adore the American Idol show. If not being 20 years overage, I would have tried my luck in that show too. So being in such vicinity to someone /something connected to the show is as good as it gets! As Randy Jackson sometimes says, “Yo Man !”
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