It all started in Atlanta, Georgia on January 28th, 2003, when millions of people were introduced to a skinny redhead who wore glasses and had a unique fashion style. The American Idol judges looked skeptical and no one knew what to expect.
But like your mother used to say, don’t judge a book by its cover. Clay Aiken opened his mouth to sing and the incredible voice that poured out amazed everyone.
“Why are you here?” Clay spread his hands and stated simply; “Because I am the next American Idol.”
The skeptical judges watched and listened as Clay sang an excerpt from the 80’s song, Always and Forever and demonstrated his rich, clear voice.
Randy Jackson wanted to know where the voice came from and Simon Cowell suggested that he didn’t look like a pop star. But, it’s all about the voice and so Clay, the unlikely pop star, made his first steps on an incredible journey.
The voice continued to amaze through the following weeks. Clayton Aiken became Clay Aiken. He not only looked like a pop star, he became one.
Please watch this incredible audition here.
Thank you, hosaa
for the wonderful video
And…Thank you to Clay for 17 wonderful years!!
Congratulations!! You are Still our Idol!!
Clay Aiken definitely turned into a pop star and every other kind of star – he shines so bright!
For 17 incredible years he has been the light of my life and will "Always and Forever" stay in my heart.
Thank you CANN and Hosaa.
This was the beginning and so many memories followed! Thank you, Hosaa and CANN!
These last 17 years must have been such a surprise one after another for Clay. When he tried out for AI when he was in college, it changed whatever he had planned for himself. All of his fans are thankful that he stepped on that stage and sang his heart out. We'll love Clay always & forever.
Thank you for the pictures and the video. It has been 17 years and Clay will always and forever be the American Idol. He has a voice like no other singer. Thank you for Hossa for the video. So many memories.His voice is like a bottle of wine. It gets better with age. Thank you CANN for showing the pictures and the video again.
wow17 years clay I thank you so much for 17 years you will allways be my americian idol you have a voicelike no other idol singer if it were not for americian idol I wouldn't have known the amazing and incredible talent of singing that you really have thanks to hosa for the video