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Things have sure changed for Canadian Idol’s third-place contestant Tyler Lewis.
The 19-year-old has gone from living a simple life in Rockglen, Sask. — pop. 480 — to dropping names like Tony Bennett, Nelly Furtado and Martina McBride in conversation.
The likable singer says Idol guest Bennett gave the best advice — start performing from the second you walk on stage. But it was meeting country superstar McBride that most impressed Lewis.
“Martina, she’s another small town success story. She only graduated with nine (graduates) in her class.” (There were 15 in Lewis’ graduating class.)
Lewis, who admits to being a little “bummed” about being booted out of the singing competition Tuesday, says the Canadian Idol experience was eye-opening.
“The whole summer … everything was a new experience to me.
“I don’t think it’s changed me as a person. But it changed me as performer.”
After making an appearance in next Sunday’s finale, Lewis hopes to get a record deal and head into the studio.
“I’m really anxious and want to get into a studio right away.
“Before the show, I wasn’t sure what direction (musically) I wanted to go in. Now, I want to do something between country and rock. It’s too hard to pick. Country, as Martina told us, is really honest. And rock, the energy is awesome.”
Lewis is at home taking a breather and will fly back to Toronto after tomorrow’s show, where Eva Avila and Craig Sharpe will sing for the Canadian Idol title.
“I have no idea who will win. I think they’ll both step it up big time.”
Asked if he’ll call in and vote after tomorrow’s show, Lewis says he may, but it will be for both.
“Craig is only 16 and has an amazing voice that is unique and stands out. He also connects well with the audience.
“Eva, she’s very professional about it and she speaks three languages. She has huge range in her voice and is comfortable on stage.”
Canadian Idol airs on CTV tomorrow. The winner won’t be named until the finale next Sunday.