Interview With 2009 Idol Winner Kris Allen
Twenty-four Year Old Musician Takes 2009 American Idol Top Spot
Aug 20, 2009
Kris Allen was the last of the six finalists interviewed. When Suite greeted him with a comment about saving the best for last, the mild-mannered Kris said, “I wouldn’t say that!”
His modesty is not necessary, because winning the top spot guarantees Kris a recording contract with 19 Entertainment LTD. He is now writing and recording an album that is planned for release by Thanksgiving, 2009. "I am glad that I am able to have a say in choosing the band members who will join me on tour," he says. In earlier interviews, Kris had said that he was anxious to play large venues, but today adds that he’d also like to perform at colleges and small clubs.
Kris Allen is Season Eight AI Surprise Winner
Even though he is recognized as a gifted singer and musician, Kris’s win comes as a surprise. Many fans routed for Adam Lambert because of his unquestionable showmanship as well as his wide-ranging vocal talent. At the concert, the two presented quite a contrast; Kris attired in a simple plaid shirt and jeans, while Adam in flamboyant black coat-tails, sported a “Grease” inspired pompadour hair style.
After his final song, The Beatle’s “Hey Jude,” Kris thanked the fans for “allowing us to do what we want to do for the rest of our lives.”
Kris and his wife Katy were married just before the show began. "She welcomes this opportunity for me and attends as many shows as she can." he said.
Fans Wait at Backstage Door to Meet Idol Finalists
Fans from near and far wait for hours backstage both before and after the show in hopes for the chance to meet their favorites. Suite spoke with two such enthusiasts, Anya Leonard and Ashlita Zapata, who left Petaluma, CA at 6 a.m., wearing Adam Lambert’s colors of pink, blue and glitter. Ashlita video-taped several of the Idols before the show, then stayed until 11:30 p.m., meeting with more. Ashlita said “I hope to get up enough nerve to audition for season number ten. Hopefully, my friend Anya will support me.”
Quotes by Kris Allen from the Official American Idol ProgramInterviews with finalists are limited in time, since they also must attend a "Meet and Greet" with sponsors and other key people before the concert. The official show program offers the following questions and answers from Kris, allowing more insight into his Idol journey experience.
Who are your musical influences?
"I grew up listening to Michael Jackson everyday. Stevie Wonder as well and The Beatles in my college years. I also like to listen to everyting, so I think I take a little bit of everything I listen to."
What was the biggest Hollywood moment you had while on AI?
"The first moment that I realized I was not in Arkansas anymore was when we went to Motown and met Smokey Robinson and Berry Gordy. They were really inspirational and that moment was really life-changing."
Who was /is your best friend on the show?
"We are all good friends, but me and Adam have become close from being roommates in the mansion. Me and Matt have been really close as well since the very first week we were in Hollywood."
Who is your American Idol and why?
"My American Idol is my wife. I know that is cheesy, but she works her tail off everyday for us. No-one knows what she has done for me and she is the greatest person I know."
For ticket and tour information, fans can check local venues or American Idol
Related Article by June Smith, Press Hour with Finalist Danny Gokey
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