JOSE 'SWAY' PENALA
Age: 28
Hometown: South San Francisco, CA
Audition City: San Francisco
Favorite Female Artist:
Mariah Carey
Favorite Male Artist:
Luther Vandross, Stevie Wonder

When did you first start to sing?
3 years.
Do you have any formal singing training?
No.
What other talents do you have?
Cook.
If you don't make it on AMERICAN IDOL, what will you do?
Real estate.
What are your personal goals in life?
Live long, happy, healthy, successful life.
What album would your friends be surprised you own?
Carpenters.
Who is your AMERICAN IDOL?
Kelly.
Do you have any rituals or things you do each time you perform?
Tea and Honey.
Most embarrassing moments?
1st grade when I didn't get into the bathroom on time!
What has been your proudest moment in life so far?
This!
If you couldn't sing, which talent would you most like to have?
Photography.
What is your definition of an AMERICAN IDOL?
A believer, dream chaser and driven.
Who is your favorite judge and why?
Simon. Honest.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I have no hair.
How has this changed your life?
I don't know yet.
Do you have any lucky charms?
No.
Who are your heroes in life?
Jesus Christ.
What's been your toughest obstacle in life?
I never really had one.
Do you think the audition process was fair?
Yes.
If you win, who will you thank first?
God.
SEASON 5 PHOTOS
SEASON 5 TOP 12
SEASON 5 BEST OF THE REST
SONG LIST
- Wed, Feb. 22 "Reasons"
- Wed, Mar. 1 "Overjoyed"