Garrett Haley

Garrett Haley a semifinalist



STAFF REPORT

ALAMOSA — Seventeen-year old Garrett Haley, formerly from Alamosa, now from Elida, Ohio, is one of 24 singers chosen to compete on this season of American Idol.

Haley survived “Hollywood Week” - an intense week of auditions and trials - after his audition in San Diego, Calif., to make the final cut.

Billed as the nation’s number one television show, American Idol auditions tens of thousands of singers from across the country for the chance to become the next American idol, and to launch their singing career. This is the show’s seventh season.

During each episode, viewers vote for their favorite performer via telephone or text messaging, gradually eliminating contestants and bringing the final choice to a showdown for the season finale. The results are announced during the following night’s telecast.

A panel of three judges - Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell, and Randy Jackson - determined the 24 contestants, or semifinalists, who will appear on this season’s show. While viewers will determine who stays and who goes from among the contestants, the judges offer critiques - sometimes scathing - after each performance.

In his online interview posted on the American Idol Web site, Haley said he has been singing since he was 5 or 6. He mentioned Steve Perry and the Backstreet Boys as his favorite performers and biggest influences.

“I want to be the next American Idol because I want to be a position influence on generations that are growing up now,” Haley said online.

American Idol airs on the Fox network, usually Tuesday and Wednesday evenings.

Go to americanidol.com for more information.