I'm a fan (and you should be too) because...they are supremely gifted. Chris's voice is a wonderful guiding force and the band truly knows how to support Chris's talent and carry it to new heights. Plus, Chris's personal life story is very similar to mine and my husband's own story.

My husband and I met by chance while I was visiting my dad for the summer in Baltimore, Maryland. Myself, I am a native of St. Louis, Missouri and didn't know anyone. We met and then became friends, became closer, got engaged, got married...you know how it goes. George has two wonderful little girls (well they're not quite little anymore...11 and 10) from a previous marriage and he was very careful to make sure they were okay with us being together. Also, I am 13 years younger than my hubby and a 20 year old (at that time) being ready to take on kids was something he wanted to make sure I could handle. Needless to say everthing worked out and I love those girls as my own. When I saw Chris on American Idol and heard his story, I instantly liked him. Then I heard his voice and realized I was going to end up dialing all season long until my fingers were gnarled and arthritic. I guess, when you can relate on a human level, then the music seems more personal to you.

I can't say that I know much about the other gentlemen in the band except for what I get from their profiles, entries, and of course from the music but I can't wait to learn more and get to see them in concert. But Chris I simply adore...in a respectful and proud kind of way, not the stalker kind of way. Being younger than he is I guess it's kind of weird to say I'm proud of him but it's really true...every week I watched AI I would smile or laugh or boo Simon (who 90% of the time I agree with) as the judges gave their critique. I mean who wouldn't be proud and happy to say that even in some small and minute way that they were a part of Chris' experience. He just has this raw talent that cannot be taught. The way he knows when to keep it simple or when to add a little growl or when to really work the mic stand! :)~ And that's just watching him perform....but if you close your eyes you can hear the yearning in his voice, or the melancholic nostaglia, or the determination. It can be a really intense and emotional experience.

Personally I love the song "Over You" which I think is funny...and this is why. Let me paint a picture: My favorite time to listen to this song is on warm, sunny days while I'm on my way home from work. I roll down all my windows and let the breeze wash over me, turn the song on blast and just sing my heart out...it puts me in such a good mood. But if you listen to the song it just really is NOT sunshine and rainbows in the least. Plus I'm happily married and don't have anybody that I need to "get over" I just find it comical that a song about realizing someone you once loved isn't any good for you anymore and telling them "see ya...I don't need you" could put me in such a good mood. Eh well, my hubby always says I'm a bit goofy so I guess we can chalk it up to that!

Anyway, my hubby's joking that I should apply to college with this essay so I better "wrap it up", as they say. So in short....Daughtry is truly a band that is destined for greatness. If you don't know the music or the people....do your homework and get to know them and their amazing gifts. You won't be sorry...I PROMISE

Lots of love and support,
~Amber