marcoujor: The Dish On Daughtry

​​American Idol was in its 5th season on television in 2005 - 2006.

Out of curiosity, I tuned in. Along with the rest of the country, I discovered Chris Daughtry.

This winner, in every sense of the word, was eliminated from the show in May, 2006 - ending up in 4th place. Not fitting the 'bubble gum' icon image of winners in previous seasons, Daughtry had a voice that rocked the stage week after week. Over these last ten years, having attended four concerts so far, I've never swerved from my feelings.

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Chris Daughtry

​Christopher Adam Daughtry was born in Roanoke Rapids, NC on December 26th, 1979. While he played in rock bands in local bars, he worked as an auto mechanic before auditioning for American Idol. He is happily married with four children, two from Deanna's first marriage. He credits his wife in helping him move on from earlier years of the party scene.

Seeing Daughtry live sheds light on his personality. He maintains an authentic sense of self, when interacting with the audience. He is humble and respectful. He is genuinely thankful to the fans who have helped him achieve popularity and success.

Daughtry has a range that cannot be overlooked or denied. Looking around the concert arena, a diversity of ages, from tweens to seniors, can be found - on their feet, singing, clapping or somehow interacting with this amazing band.

I thoroughly appreciate that Chris has never forgotten his beginnings, as many have before him. He says it best:

“I'll never forget what it was like. To go from playing in front of 50 people to an audience of thousands. I'm always trying to hook up bands I've played with, encouraging whoever I can. It's why I work so hard to make these songs unique. I owe to those who've supported me and those still trying to climb up that ladder.”

Chris takes the time to introduce the warm–up bands and sing with them on a couple songs. In the many concerts I've attended, this is not a common occurrence.

Chris loves his band. Team spirit and a sense of joy in making the audience happy are most evident.

To Daughtry: “There's nothing like the camaraderie of a band. That feeling that you're surrounded by a group of people who feel closer to you than just about anybody. It makes such a difference in the music.”

Daughtry radiates an aura of spirituality - seemingly incongruous with a man known for his genre of hard rock. He helped raise awareness about world poverty by joining efforts at the 2008 Democratic National Convention and Republican National Convention. The band refused to back a presidential candidate during their interviews. Their intention was solely to pay it forward.

Feels Like the First Time, originally performed by the band, Foreigner, gave a message of hope and encouragement to first time voters - in 2008 and can again in 2016. Mom instilled the value of taking the right to vote seriously as a woman, sharing with me the days we were not permitted this privilege. 

Check out Daughtry's rendition for yourself...:  "Feels Like the First Time"

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​On Palm Sunday, March 20th, I tuned into the Fox network to see The Passion, as narrated by Tyler Perry - live in his resurrected city of New Orleans, LA.  While the show got some rather negative reviews, I watched this audience visibly moved by an old story reworked in a socially relevant manner - ranging from the Apostles wearing hoodies to unexpectedly spot on song choices of today.

I wasn't disappointed in Daughtry's portrayal of Judas Iscariot - the man who betrayed Jesus Christ.  I could imagine the internal angst and torture Judas must have experienced, while listening to Chris' rendition of a song debuted by Evanescence in 2003.  

Chris Daughtry:  "Bring Me To Life"

Will I tune into the three night grand finale of American Idol on April 5, 6, 7, 2016 ...?

Because Daughtry has been invited back, I will check out his performance - ever grateful for 'on demand' and the 'fast forward' options. 

Hot Off The Press!

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​This book will grab you 'hook, line and sinker' and remind you how magnificent a mystery can be in the unfolding.

Here are a few other posts by some pro bloggers I hope you'll have a look at...

• Good Week, Bad Week via WarnerWords
• The Promise of Spring via Bumpkin in the Burbs
• Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe from Aunt Jessie via In The World

​Until next week, wishing you peace and music in your life, mar