ALLENDALE, Mich. -- Ross Hammond describes himself as a professional shower singer with 12 years of experience, yet he joined the throngs of musical wannabes who auditioned for a chance to become the next American Idol.
Hammond, from Byron Center, also performs in two choirs at Grand Valley State University, where he is a sophomore majoring in international studies. He has been getting plenty of attention lately because the new season of the American Idol television show, which airs on FOX network, begins next week on Tuesday, January 16.
"I can tell you about my audition experience, but not the results," said Hammond, who "plays around" on guitar and piano. "They make it a very authentic experience, which may come in handy in the future for those contestants who make it to the next round."
While many contestants show up at audition sites days early to secure a place in line, Hammond arrived in Memphis the day after the required wristbands were passed out to those seeking auditions. The drive from Michigan over Labor Day weekend took much longer than he thought it would.
"I still managed to get in for an audition and performed the Eva Cassidy version of 'Over the Rainbow,'" said Hammond. That is all he could say about his audition because he was required to sign an agreement that swears him to secrecy until results are aired on the show.
Hammond, who says his favorite music includes the Motown sound of artists Aretha Franklin and Marvin Gaye, will be auditioning others next week for the a cappella group "Euphoria" he hopes to start on campus. Perhaps his own experience gives him insights to what judges look for.
