Sunday was April 15th – Most of us look at this date and think taxes! But…this year taxes are due on Tuesday, April 17.  The extra break was granted because April 15 is a Sunday this year, and Monday is Emancipation Day, a holiday in Washington D.C. that celebrates the freeing of slaves in the district.

BUT…instead of taxes, I would rather think about some of the fun things that Clay Aiken has done on April 15th.

April 15, 2003 –  American Idol presented the Top 7 performers on Billy Joel Night.  Each singer was required to sing a song made famous by Billy Joel.

Clay Aiken was the last performer on this night and the judges remarks from this performance have been quoted many times.  Most Clay fans will remember “I just can’t wait till you let loose and dance a little more!”  Then Clay’s answer… baby-steps!!

Then, who could forget Simon’s   “I prefer you when I shut my eyes.”

Tell Her About It was a wonderful choice for Clay to make.  Starting out as a ballad and then, WOW, he changed it to up-tempo.  It was the night that Clay changed his whole style and delivery.  He never missed a step.  When was the last time you watch Clay sing this on American Idol?  Enjoy!!

April 15, 2004 – Clay was in Kansas City, MO.  Clay and Diane Bubel were at part of Hallmark’s Kaleidoscope.  Clay and Diane participated in a private art session.  The program integrated children with special needs with their typical peers.  They paired up to produce art projects that were based on the theme,  How Art Defines Me.  From the pictures, it looks like Clay had as much fun as the kids!

April 15, 2004 – After a day of working with the kids on their art projects, Clay performed at the Kember Arena as part of the Independent Tour.  This performance was special because it was almost the end of the successful tour for Clay and Kelly Clarkson.  This performance produced some fun pictures.

April 15, 2005 – This was National Youth Service Day.  Clay was in Hollywood, Florida and he joined a group of Best Buddies  kids to plant trees in the area.

National Youth Service Day is a public awareness and education campaign that highlights the amazing contributions that young people make to their communities 365 days a year. As the largest service event in the world, it mobilizes millions of young people to address the needs of their communities, and educates the public, the media, and policymakers about the year-round contributions of young people as community leaders.

April 15, 2012 –  Clay Aiken was seen on NBC as a contestant on the popular show, Celebrity Apprentice.  The show was episode 9 and titled Puppets Up.  The show was filled with lots of fun, laughs, tears, and drama.

 Good Luck with your taxes and…

hopefully we will hear from Clay today!