Danny Gokey on the Idols Tour
Season 8's third place finalist, Danny Gokey, has been touring with the Top 10 Idols all summer and just announced his record deal last week. In an exclusive call with AmericanIdol.com, Danny opened up about his upcoming record, his amazing fans, and more.
Although Danny originally planned on putting out an album of soulful R&B music with a Latin twist, things have changed in recent weeks for him. Danny has found a niche in the country music genre, and even sings a couple Rascal Flatts songs on tour. Discussing his upcoming country album, Danny said, "There probably won't be much of a Latin twist, but I am a versatile singer and I like all types of music. My prerogative with my music is my message first, and country music is great for sharing a message. The music will still have a lot of soul in it. I will put my heart, my soul, and my mind into the music to really make a good album."
Nashville, Tennessee is the home of country music, but Danny is from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. "I plan on living in both cities," Danny shared. "My foundation, Sophia's Heart Foundation, is in Wisconsin, but the record label is in Tennessee. Part of Sophia's Heart's staff is in Tennessee, so that will be good too."
After spending a summer touring in 50 cities, the American Idols Live! 2009 tour will wrap on September 15 and the ten finalists will work on their careers. "I'm going to miss the relationships and connections we all formed the most. It's really been a beautiful thing. We've become like family. We all have individual things we have to pursue so we will be going our separate ways. I really hope we all stay in touch."
MyIdol member americanidol22xo wanted to know, besides the set he performs on stage, what is Danny's favorite part of a typical concert day. "The second best thing about being on tour is meeting the fans. There's so much excitement from them. We meet really nice people and I've made special connections with many of them. It's a very hands-on experience. I heard about the fans while I was on the show, but now I get to experience it." Danny is grateful for the gifts his fans have given him. "I have received so many nice gifts. It's nice to see that there are a lot of people out there who support us. I've learned about fans' unique experiences. It's great to meet everyone."
Kicking off his concert set with Michael Jackson's "P.Y.T." Danny said, "People love that song. Michael Jackson has gone down in history and this is a small way for us to acknowledge him and pay respects. Everyone is always on their feet during that song."
To the Season 9 hopefuls, Danny offered up the following suggestions: "Number one, be yourself. Don't try to be someone you're not. And number two, be something fresh and new. Be something unique that no one else possesses. The industry doesn't want a carbon copy."
Danny would like to say to his fans, "I love you from the bottom of my heart. You are the reason for my success, and I wouldn't be here without you." Danny will stay true to himself and his fans - "I won't change anything. I will always make good music. Thanks for everything."
View photos of Danny and the Top 10 on tour.
Read all of our interviews with the Top 10 on tour:
Posted by Lauren
