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Idol Round-Up

admin@dangokey.com — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 02:06:04 +0000

American Idol winner Fantasias newest album, Back To Me, sold nearly 117,000 entering her on The Billboard 200 chart at #2.She was the only Idol alum that made the Billboard chart’s Top 40 this week.Carrie Underwood, Adam Lambert, and Chris Daughtry also have albums in the Top 200. In addition, Fantasia’s album debuted at #1 on the R&B/Hip-Hop albums chart.The American Idols have now accumulated 279 #1s to date, counting all national, domestic charts compiled by the Billboard Information Group:
Kelly Clarkson 56
Carrie Underwood 48
Chris Daughtry (Daughtry) 36
Fantasia 23
Ruben Studdard 16
Jennifer Hudson 13
Clay Aiken 11
Mandisa 10
Kimberley Lockeread more
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Happy Birthday, Ramiele Malubay!

admin@dangokey.com — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 02:06:00 +0000

Season 7′s ninth place finalist, Ramiele Malubay, turned 23 on September 6. Ramiele was the tiny girl with the big voice on her season of American Idol.

While on the show, Ramiele’s style from her hair to her high heels turned heads. The Florida resident made it all the way to the finals without ever landing in the bottom three until her Top 9 Dolly Parton week elimination.

The Filipino-American singer has found a niche for her music in the Philippines, where she has performed concerts. Ramiele also participated in “Filipino Pride Day 2009″ in Orange Park, Florida and she sang the National Anthem at the MGM Grand Las Vegas before the Manny Pacquiao and Miguel ngel Cotto fight last November.

Happy Birthday, Ramiele!

View photos of Ramiele on American Idol.

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Kara DioGuardi Steps Down

admin@dangokey.com — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 05:01:42 +0000

Kara DioGuardi is stepping down from her role as a judge on American Idol. DioGuardi joined American Idol as a judge in the series eighth season.

I felt like I won the lottery when I joined American Idol two years ago, but I feel like now is the best time to leave Idol, said DioGuardi. I am very proud to have been associated with American Idol it has truly been an amazing experience. I am grateful to FOX, FremantleMedia and 19 Entertainment, as well as the cast, crew and contestants, for all they have given to me. I look forward to my next challenge, and want to thank everyone who has supported me. All the best to everyone on Season 10!

Kara was a great addition to our Idol family, said Mike Darnell, President of Alternative Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. Ive been fortunate to get to know her well, and have always been amazed by her eye for talent and her commitment to developing and mentoring artists. She will be missed, and we wish her continued success.

Kara is one of the worlds best songwriters, stated Idol creator and executive producer Simon Fuller. She has been passionate and committed to Idol over the last two seasons. I will miss having her on the show, but I look forward to working with her in music for many years to come.

As one of the most proclaimed songwriters in the U.S., Kara brought a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to American Idol, said Cecile Frot-Coutaz, Idol executive producer. We are very grateful for the time she spent on the show, and we wish her nothing but the best in all her future endeavors.

Anyone who knows Kara knows that she … read more
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Happy Birthday, Camile Velasco!

admin@dangokey.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 22:01:38 +0000

Season 3 finalist Camile Velasco made it on American Idol after a successful audition in Hawaii. While on the show, Camile wore a red, yellow, and green wristband to represent reggae music, as Lauryn Hill and Bob Marley were her music inspirations.

Last year, Camile released a single called “Guava Jelly,” which was produced by Stephen Marley. In January, she released a new single called Superstar in Japan. Camile often covers pop songs and uploads the videos for her fans on the web.

Happy Birthday, Camile!

View photos of Camile on Season 3 of American Idol.

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Fantasia’s New Album Tops the Charts

admin@dangokey.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 22:01:38 +0000

Just one week ago, American Idols third winner, Fantasia, released her third album. Back To Me debuted at #1 on the Billboards R&B Albums Chart and #2 on the Top 200 Albums Chart. With over 117,000 units sold since its August 24th release on J Records, Back To Me marks Fantasias first #1 R&B album and her highest Billboard Top 200 chart ranking.

Leading the way for the albums chart-topping debut is the hit single Bittersweet, which currently claims the #1 position on the Urban Adult Radio Airplay chart for three consecutive weeks. The music video for Bittersweet is also performing well.

Read more about Back To Me.
View photos of Fantasia performing Bittersweet on a Season 9 results show of American Idol.

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Carrie to Host CMAs, Plus 2 Nominations

admin@dangokey.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 22:01:38 +0000

Carrie Underwood will host the 44^th Annual CMA Awards for the third year in a row with Brad Paisley. The CMA Awards 2010 airs live on November 10^th, and the award show is known as Country Musics Biggest Night.

CMA Chief Executive Officer Steve Moore said, Carrie and Brad have done a tremendous job hosting and we are very happy to have them back again this year. They have developed a natural rhythm and have a great rapport with the audience both in the house and our fans watching at home. They each have a great sense of humor and timing, which are two essential ingredients for hosting a live awards broadcast.

Its all about Country Music, Carrie said. We all live here. This is our community. The CMA Awards are in Nashville, the home of Country Music. Its great to come here and celebrate that every year.

In addition to hosting the show, Carrie is also nominated for two big awards: Female Vocalist of the Year and Album of the Year (for Play On). With three CMA Awards wins for Female Vocalist of the Year, Carrie could tie Martina McBride and Reba McEntire for record wins (4) in the category.

Carrie has received five CMA Awards in her career, including three consecutive wins as Female Vocalist (2006-2008), as well as Single of the Year (2007 for Before He Cheats) and the Horizon Award (2006). The fourth American … read more
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Los Angeles Added As Final Audition City

admin@dangokey.com — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 22:01:38 +0000

In celebration of the series momentous 10^th anniversary and in an effort to give tens of thousands of hopefuls the opportunity to audition, American Idol will host auditions in Los Angeles beginning Wednesday, Sept. 22.

The 10^th season of American Idol premieres January 2011 on FOX.

This summer we have had an exceptional turnout both in the number of people auditioning and the level of their talent, said Idol executive producer Ken Warwick. Los Angeles has always delivered great talent, and so we feel it only fitting that we end our 10^th season audition tour here in our home city.

As previously announced, American Idol has also expanded the eligibility age range for the first time ever to include hopefuls from 15 to 28 years old.

Los Angeles American Idol Audition Information

WHO: Men and women 15-28 years old as of July 17, 2010, who are eligible to work in the U.S. Some restrictions apply click here for specific information.

WHEN: Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2010

HOW: Wristbands will be distributed from approximately 7:00 AM on Tuesday, Sept. 21 until approximately 8:00 AM on Wednesday, Sept. 22. Auditioners will not be permitted to camp out. Once auditioners obtain their wristbands, they will be asked to return to The Forum by 5:00 AM on Wednesday, Sept 22.

WHERE: The Forum
3900 West Manchester Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90305

Audition information, including forms and requirements, are available on the auditions page read more
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Exclusive Interview with Tim Urban

admin@dangokey.com — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 17:58:38 +0000

When Season 9s seventh place finalist, Tim Urban, was in Los Angeles with the American Idols LIVE! 2010 Tour, he was battling with a strained voice from all of the singing and interviews hes been doing. However, he didnt let that stop him from sharing his post-tour plans, stories about his amazing fans, and opening up about a possible future in acting.

With the Idol tour wrapping up soon, Tim said, I dont like thinking about it being over. The best part of being on tour its clich, its what you expect everyone to say is being on stage performing and its meeting the fans. In reality, it really is. There really isnt any other option. My favorite part is not driving around on the buses which is fun, its great and its not staying at the random hotels. The fans are incredible. Its an incredible experience every time I step out on that stage.

Tim has quite the fan base, and hes so grateful to finally meet the people who supported him throughout his Season 9 journey. Meeting the fans has been incredible, Tim stated. I really did not expect this. People told me while I was on the show, Youve got a really big fan base, but Im thinking, I dont really have a big fan base. Cmon, seriously? Im just this kid from Dallas. But, the fans have been nuts. The fans have been so supportive, so nice. Its been really cool. And theyve given me a bunch of gifts. One of the biggest things that I get now is bracelets. Ive got a collection going. Theres a plastic container on … read more
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Exclusive Interview with Michael Lynche

admin@dangokey.com — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 17:58:32 +0000

Season 9s saved Idol, Michael Lynche, bounced back after the judges saved him from ninth place and he made it all the way to the Top 4. We caught up with Big Mike at the Los Angeles stop on the American Idols LIVE! 2010 Tour, and he opened up about his family, his future, and late night sandwiches.

Michael shared what he loves about touring, saying, My favorite part is getting to see the people because theyre really who make the show special. Getting this opportunity and getting the chance to have a career after is due to them. As long as you sing the peoples good graces, you can be successful. Thats the really outstanding part. The toughest part is probably just being away from my family as much as I have to be. They come out with us, but whenever I have to send them away its tough. Theyve been out a bunch with us and theyre here now and theyve been with us all week. To be back here in Los Angeles on my daughters 7 month birthday is really the culmination of a years worth of work.

What has been Big Mikes favorite tour stop? I live in New York, so its always nice to go to a place you live especially a big city like that. The support that I got in New York was amazing, but I grew up in Florida. Thats where my family is. Some of my family had never seen me perform before the show, and they didnt know this side of me. They only know me as an athlete. So that was nice for them … read more
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Exclusive Interview with Andrew Garcia

admin@dangokey.com — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 03:56:44 +0000

When the American Idols LIVE! 2010 Tour came to Los Angeles, CA, we had the opportunity to catch up with Andrew Garcia. Season 9s ninth place finalist was in his hometown area. He opened up about being back in California, being away from his son, and his wonderful fans.

Andrew Garcia was happy to be back in Southern California. It feels so good to be back. The weathers amazing. This is where I came from and I just havent been here in so long and its good to be back. Im just about to perform at Staples Center; its like a dream. Its just crazy. Im just so good right now.”

Before his Idol journey, Andrew was a stay-at-home dad. He was happy when we spoke to him because he was minutes away from reuniting with his loved ones. My family and friends are coming out and I cannot wait to see them. And my sons going to be here so its going to be amazing. I flew him out a couple dates but not so many dates because of the traveling. You know my girl has school and theres a lot of stuff going on and hes young to be traveling. But Im going to see him today and Im pumped and ready to go out there and rock on stage!

Andrew is having the time of his life on tour with the Season 9 finalists. I love everything about this tour. They give us the best of the best. They take care of us really good and I just love seeing the fans. Its one thing to say I want … read more
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We Are The Fallen’s Next Single

admin@dangokey.com — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 03:56:44 +0000

Tear The World Down, the latest single from the album of the same name by We Are The Fallen, will be released October 12^th, 2010. A proven audience favorite on the touring circuit, Tear The World Down features captivating vocals from American Idol Season 7 finalist Carly Smithson, soaring instrumentals from the band members Ben Moody, John LeCompt, Rocky Gray and Marty OBrien, highlighted by choir swells and strings by award-winning arranger, composer and conductor David Campbell.

I’ve been waiting quite a few years to create a song of this sonic magnitude, depth, and passion- and I could not be more proud, stated Ben Moody.

We Are The Fallens first album Tear The World Down was released on Universal Republic Records in May 2010, shooting to the #33 spot on the Billboard Top 200 chart, riding on a wave of anticipation built by the release of the premiere single Bury Me Alive in February. After making their live performance debut in London in March, the group hit the road, and has been consistently touring nationwide alongside various bands throughout the spring and summer of this year.

A band of indisputably gifted and accomplished artists, We Are The Fallen is comprised of Irish-born and raised 2008 American Idol finalist Carly Smithson on vocals, along with the former members of multi-platinum band Evanescence, guitarists … read more
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Idols in the News

admin@dangokey.com — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 03:56:44 +0000

Some of American Idols top finalists are making news this week. Check out announcements from a handful of your favorites!

Season 2s American Idol, Ruben Studdard, will perform at the Hit Man: David Foster & Friends concert at the Ballroom of The Ritz Carlton Pacific Place in Jakarta, Indonesia in October, 2010. The concert will celebrate David Fosters career spanning close to 40 years. Other performers include Natalie Cole, The Canadian Tenors, and Charice Pempengco. Ruben has collaborated with David Foster in the past, and in 2009 he toured the country with “Hit Man: a special evening with David Foster & Friends” live in concert along with Idol finalist Michael Johns.

Two of Americas favorite finalists, Adam Lambert and Chris Daughtry, will perform at this years F1 Singapore Grand Prix concert in September in the Padang. Missy Elliot and Mariah Carey will also perform at the event. Then, Chris and his multi-platinum rock band Daughtry will perform Friday, October 1, 2010 at the Kakaako Beach Park Amphitheater at 6:00pm in Honolulu, HI.

Season 5 winner Taylor Hicks is part of a new state tourism campaign to bring people back to the Alabama Coast. The ad is set … read more
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Happy Birthday, Paris Bennett!

admin@dangokey.com — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 03:56:39 +0000

Paris Bennett was only 17 years old as a contestant on Season 5 of American Idol. On Saturday, Paris celebrated her 22nd birthday. Even though she was one of the shows younger contestants, she excelled with songs by Gladys Knight & The Pips, Barbra Streisand, Peggy Lee, and more. Music runs in Paris family. Not only does her mom sing, but her grandmother is Ann Nesby, the former lead singer of the Sounds of Blackness.

After her time on Idol, Paris signed to her uncle’s recordlabel, 306 Entertainment. In 2007, Paris released an album titled Princess P, which is the name that Ryan Seacrest gave her during her run on American Idol. In 2008, Paris released a holiday album, A Royal Christmas, which included standards and original tracks. Currently, Paris is working on her second studio album which she plans on releasing soon. This album won’t be as R&B oriented as her previous album. Instead, it will have a classic jazz feel to it.

Earlier this year, Paris and her mother starred in a Minneapolis production of RENT. Shes currently performing at several shows and is a background vocals singer. Paris lets fans into her life through a series of videos she posts online.

Happy Birthday, Paris!

View Paris’ transformation in our Transformation Gallery.

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Fantasia’s ‘Back To Me’

admin@dangokey.com — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 20:55:41 +0000

Fantasia, the Season 3 American Idol, released her third studio album, Back To Me, today. The new album is an emotionally charged record which features a sole guest appearance by Cee-Lo Green and songs written and/or produced by Ne-Yo, Claude Kelly, Chuck Harmony Rico Love, Jim Jonsin, KP & Malay. Also available for the first time as a bonus track is Im Here, Fantasias signature song from her acting role as Celie in the Broadway play The Color Purple. Her first single off the album, Bittersweet, made it to #9 on the Urban Adult Airplay chart.

The tracks on Back To Me are:
1. Im Doin Me
2. Bittersweet
3. Man Of The House
4. Whos Been Lovin You
5. Collard Greens & Cornbread
6. Teach Me
7. Move on Me
8. Trust Him
9. The Thrill Is Gone
10. Falling in Love Tonight
11. Even Angels
12. Im Here
13. The Worst Part Is Over [Japan Bonus Track]

Fantasia will make a number of TV appearances this week, including a VH1′s Behind the Music featuring Fantasia. In a statement to press the songbird said, I cant thank my fans enough for their prayers and support during such a challenging time. It has given me the motivation to get back to work and honor the commitments I made to promote Back To Me. I put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into this album and I pray that everyone enjoys it as much as I do.

Early reviews indicate that the critics are indeed enjoying the Idol winners latest effort. With a 4-star rating (out of 5), The New York Daily News states … read more
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Connect with Idol

admin@dangokey.com — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 23:53:54 +0000

There are plenty of ways to keep up with the official source of American Idol news and connect with fans. With auditions, the tour, and the milestone 10^th season upon us, stay in the know and discuss Idol with fans by:

Joining the MyIdol Community
It takes less than a minute to sign-up for the number one American Idol fan community. MyIdol members can post blogs on the American Idol site, chat in forums, meet new friends, comment on photos/videos/news, and more. Sign-up now.

Liking American Idol on Facebook
The Official American Idol Facebook page is a place where you can receive show updates, view photos, watch videos, and chat with American Idol fans all over the world. Join over 3 million fans.

Following @AmericanIdol on Twitter
A great way to stay on top of the latest news, get show times and updates, and hear about new content is by following @AmericanIdol on Twitter. Forget the water cooler! Gather on Twitter and talk about the show. Use #AmericanIdol to trend the topic or @AmericanIdol to reply to us. You can also share AI news and other content we send out by simply re-tweeting our alerts. Follow American Idol on Twitter.

Adding American Idol as a MySpace Friend
For photos, videos, downloads, and more, visit American Idol on MySpace. Leave a comment for American Idol and connect with other fans of the show. Add American Idol as … read more
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Justin Guarini to Star on Broadway

admin@dangokey.com — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 23:53:54 +0000

Season 1 runner-up Justin Guarini will make his Broadway debut as Carlos in Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown. He will star alongside Broadway greats including Patti LuPone and Brian Stokes Mitchell.

Based on Pedro Almodvars Oscar-nominated 1988 film, Women on the Verge is a story about women and the men who pursue them. Tony Award-winning director Bartlett Sher (South Pacific) will direct the world premiere of Women on the Verge, which was penned by Tony-nominated Dirty Rotten Scoundrels collaborators David Yazbek (music and lyrics) and Jeffrey Lane (book).

Tickets will go on sale to Lincoln Center Theater members August 23^rd, followed by a release to the general public on August 30^th. Women on the Verge will begin previews at the newly-renovated Belasco Theatre October 2^nd.

Today, Justin tweeted, an honor & a privilege 2 b a part of Women On The Verge Of A Nervous Breakdown. An amazing cast & director 2 have my B’way debut with!

Justin can soon add Broadway star to his resume which includes recording artist, songwriter, TV show host, film credits, and charity work.

View photos of Justin at the start of his career Season 1 on American Idol.

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Exclusive Interview with Aaron Kelly

admin@dangokey.com — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 23:53:54 +0000

Hours before Aaron Kelly took the Staples Center stage with the American Idols LIVE! 2010 Tour, he opened up to AmericanIdol.com about his favorite tour stop, auditions advice, and his future plans.

With only a few weeks left on tour, we wanted to know what Aaron likes about touring and what hed miss when its over. My favorite part of being on tour is getting to see all the fans that supported us from day one, Aaron said. I think what Im going to miss most is getting to hang out with the contestants. Weve all become family; weve been together so long and its going to be sad to break apart.

Since Aaron is a minor, his amazing mom has come on tour with him and she rides around the nation on the girls bus. Aaron shared, I definitely love my mom and its always good to have her there for the support. She has always supported me throughout my whole life and its good to have her with me.

Of all the places the Idol Tour has taken Aaron, he revealed, My favorite tour stop was Hershey, PA. That was my hometown show and that was my favorite because it was where all the hometown fans and friends and family were. It was so much fun, and that was where they cheered the loudest for me.

Whats next for the teen from Sonestown, Pennsylvania? He shared some big news, Once the tour is over Im moving to Nashville. Im talking to a record label right now so were gonna work on getting some things in the … read more
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Exclusive Interview with Didi Benami

admin@dangokey.com — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 23:53:54 +0000

When Didi Benami came to Los Angeles with the American Idols LIVE! 2010 Tour, she talked to AmericanIdol.com about life on the road, an album shes working on, and her future plans.

As the tenth place finalist, Didi gets to kick off the tour each night with her set. Its very cool; its an honor, Didi said about being the first finalist on stage. I dont like being stuck somewhere in the middle, so its nice to be at the opening of the show. The only thing that could be a downfall about it is that not everybodys actually there yet, but its still a really amazing opportunity and Im totally blessed to be here and Im happy. I love doing it.

Does Didi still get nervous before taking the stage? I did the very first time I went out. I think Im going to get a little nervous tonight because this is kind of like a homecoming. I mean Knoxville was too, but this is like where Im currently stationed. But, Im happy and Im excited. Im not nervous right now, but I might be when I get on stage I have a lot of friends and family coming out tonight.

With just a few weeks left on the tour, what will Didi miss when this is all over? Im gonna miss performing on that big stage every night and performing for all of those people. Its really an amazing experience, and I dont want it to end. Im gonna miss the people here. Everyone here is really chill and I love being around them. Thats going to be … read more
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Casey James Lands Record Deal

admin@dangokey.com — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:53:15 +0000

Cool, TX native Casey James has turned his third place American Idol finish into a record deal with Sony Nashville and 19 Recordings/BNA Records. The musician and singer/songwriter whose been fronting the Casey James Band since 2008, had never even seen a single episode of the top rated show before auditioning in Denver and winning a golden ticket to Hollywood.

An elated Casey remarked, “Some dreams in life are only just that….dreams. All my life I have wanted this and now my dream has come true. Words can’t describe how thankful and blessed I am for the opportunity to give back to all those who have supported me. I’m going to work hard to make the best album possible! I want to thank my Momma for making me go to Denver. Look out! I’m Nashville bound!”

Sony Nashville Chairman and CEO Gary Overton says, We at Sony Music Nashville are incredibly excited about signing Casey James. I flew to New York to see him live with the American Idol Tour and I was blown away with his voice, guitar playing and stage presence…and so were the thousands of fans in the amphitheatre. He has honed his skills as a showman with his years of performing live on stage! I can’t wait to get him into the studio to begin recording his debut album.

Simon Fuller, Creator of American Idol and founder of 19 Entertainment adds, Casey is an exceptional talent and it is wonderful to see another of last year’s Idols secure a … read more
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Idols in the News

admin@dangokey.com — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 09:53:02 +0000

Kris Allens music video for The Truth is making its television debut today, August 17. The Season 8 American Idol tweeted photos from the video shoot, taken in a beautiful desert where Kris performed his own stunts! While shooting in the California desert, The Truth crew was met by a monsoon which turned the land into quicksand-like conditions. The Truth is Kris third single off his self-titled album which he recorded with Train front-man Pat Monahan.

Season 8s runner-up also has a big release today. Adam Lamberts If I Had You Remixed EP is available today, exclusively on Adams Official Music Store. The EP includes these tracks:
1. If I Had You (Radio Edit)
2. If I Had You (Jason Nevins Extended Mix)
3. If I Had You (Robotronic Extended Mix)
4. If I Had You (Dangerous Muse Remix)
5. If I Had You (Morgan Page Extended Remix)

On Thursday, August 19^th, Season 8 finalist Matt Giraud will be performing at the Champions for Children Concert in Michigan. The proceeds will benefit the Big Brothers Big Sisters A Community for Caring organization. Here are the details:
When: Thursday, Aug. 19, 2010 at 7:00 p.m.
Where: W.K. Kellogg Auditorium
50 West Van Buren St.
Battle Creek, MI
Tickets: The tickets are $20. To order, call 269-565-2199

Season 6s American Idol, Jordin Sparks, makes … read more
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