Vancouver’s Daniel Seavey made it through another round of “American Idol” eliminations tonight, securing his spot among the top nine contestants.
For an 80s-themed show, the 15-year-old Union High School sophomore sang “You Make My Dreams” by Hall & Oates.
The three celebrity judges have advised Daniel each week to strengthen his vocals and build more confidence on stage; they gave more of the same advice this week during the show, which aired live on Fox.
“You look so good on camera, so that’s a huge plus for you,” Keith Urban said. “Toward the end of the song, you start coming into the song. … I’m glad you’re still here, but I think you need to get more comfortable quicker.”
On Twitter, Urban tweeted some more advice for Daniel: “What can I say, they love ya…but just imagine you’re on the streets of Portland singin & I think you’ll loosen way up!”
Jennifer Lopez said that Daniel sang better than he did last week and that the song suited his voice.
“Obviously the audience at home loves you because they’re voting you in every week,” she said “It’s just about loosening up up there and really finding yourself.”
Harry Connick Jr. asked,”Daniel, what do you love to do, man, more than anything?”
“Make people happy,” Daniel replied.
“That’s exactly why you should be up there. You’re an entertainer to make people happy,” Connick said.
He noted that the dance moves Daniel used seemed too choreographed and planned. He advised Daniel to be relaxed and have a good time on stage.
One more contestant will be eliminated during the show next Wednesday evening.
For information about how to vote, visit www.americanidol.com/vote. Daniel recorded his rendition of “You Make my Dreams,” which is available for download on iTunes.
