Season 8’s 10th place finalist, Michael Sarver, celebrated his 29th birthday yesterday. It was one year ago last week that the oil rigger was eliminated from the competition after his performance of “Ain’t Too Proud To Beg” during Motown Week. After spending the summer on tour with the 2009 Top 10, Michael went back to his hometown of Jasper, Texas to spend time with his wife and kids, and to make music.

Currently, Michael is working on his debut country album to be released this year with Dream Records/Universal. Read about his record deal. Michael has released two songs, “You Are” and “Cinderella Girl.” He sang some of his new music while touring with fellow Season 8 alum Alexis Grace, Season 7’s David Hernandez, and Season 6’s Gina Glocksen on the American Stars in Concert tour. This Thursday, April 1st, Michael will be performing at Legacy Christian High School in Beaumont, Texas.

Happy Birthday, Michael!

Michael’s loyal fans have been chatting up a storm in the MyIdol forums. Check it out and join in the conversation!