JARED YATES
Age: 18
Hometown: Danville, IL
Audition City: St. Louis
What's in your CD player right now? Clay Aiken's "Measure of a Man"
What's your favorite type of music? Pop, R&B and Rock.

When did you first start to sing?
I started singing when I was 14. I was playing around on my aunt's karaoke machine and realized that I wanted to sing for the rest of my life.
Do you have any formal singing training?
No.
What other talents do you have?
Some acting and some dancing. I can balance a spoon on my nose too!
If you don't make it on AMERICAN IDOL, what will you do?
Continue singing! It's my life!
What are your personal goals in life?
I want to be able to give my family back everything they've done for me. I want to be an international performer.
What album would your friends be surprised you own?
Billy Gilman and Kenny G.
Who is your AMERICAN IDOL?
Ryan Seacrest, ha! Kelly Clarkson and Clay Aiken!
Do you have any rituals or things you do each time before you perform?
I pray... a lot!! And kiss my St. Michael medal.
Favorite male pop artist?
Marc Anthony!
Favorite female pop artist?
Celine Dion.
Most embarrassing moment?
One time at a gig I was singing and all of a sudden had one of the worst nose bleeds.
What has been your proudest moment in life so far?
This experience on American Idol!
If you couldn't sing, which talent would you most like to have?
I would love to be able to break dance.
What is your definition of an AMERICAN IDOL?
Someone who everyone can look up to regardless of their age.
Who is your favorite judge and why?
Paula. She knows what we are going through.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I live on a farm. I used to work at a funeral home/mortuary. My house burned down on January 2nd, 2005.
How has this changed your life?
My life is forever changed because ever since I picked up a microphone I knew I wanted to be an American Idol.
Do you have any lucky charms?
My St. Michael medal blessed by the Pope.
Who are your heroes in life?
My mom, Ryan Seacrest and Marilyn Monroe.
What's been your toughest obstacle in life?
Moving from a big city (Fort Walton Beach, Florida) to a small town (Danville, Illinois). Things are very different.
Do you think the audition process was fair?
Yes.
If you win, who will you thank first?
God!! We've been through a lot together.
SEASON 4 PHOTOS
SEASON 4 TOP 12
SEASON 4 BEST OF THE REST
SONG LIST
- "How Could I"