I am a fan (and you should be too) because...

Chris is an amazing PERSON, and also an incredible musician. We can all learn alot from someone like him! The moment I saw his audition on American Idol, I fell in love with his voice!! And then to hear his story, and see what a dedicated husband and father he is, seemed to make me connect to him on a more realistic level. He was an every day man with a dream, and he was doing everything he could to provide for his family, while making that dream come true! I faithfully followed his journey on 'Idol', and I cannot even tell you how much of a trance (Ha! I guess you can call it that...everyone in the room knew to be quiet and turn the volume up when his turn came around!) I went into when I saw him perform. I voted over and over again, with multiple phones. It's almost a little embarassing to admit..I'd never really voted before. But there was just no way I didn't want to see this man succeed, and I didn't want to not hear him sing every week for me! We all know how this part of the story ends -- a very debatable end to his tenure on the show. I was devestated, but also knew in my heart this man was gonna be huge. He would find a way WITHOUT American Idol, and be even bigger than whoever won. I was elated to find out that Fuel, one of my favorite bands, had offered him the lead vocal position for the band. When I heard that he had chosen to go his own path, I only respected him even more. Fast forward to the present, and Chris now has his own band DAUGHTRY. There could not have been a better group of men to come together and make some kick ass rock music. I remember how hard it was hearing clips from the album, and waiting anxiously for it to finally be released. I listen to the album every morning on the way to work, and it puts me instantly in such a great mood. The songs are all so relatable and I'm picturing them performing it live in my head. And THEN hearing that he would be playing Neumo's in Seattle?! I HAD TO BE THERE! I got tickets the minute they went on sale, and then headed to Myspace to spread the word that I was FINALLY going to see DAUGHTRY LIVE! I plan on showing up as early as possible to line up and hope for a great spot by the stage. Hearing them play live is going to be incredible! I truly wish I could meet Chris, shake his hand, and thank him for being such a bright spot in my life. He really inspires me to be a better person, and go after everything I dream of. Which is why I'm writing to you! One of my dreams is to meet Chris Daughtry! Sure he's flippin' gorgeous, but my admiration for this man and the rest of the band goes far past looks. I'm not a psycho fan who would get all flustered, and act ridiculously, and I would be so very respectful to the band. I truly think I would be a great choice! And it would make them happy to meet such a dedicated, appreciative fan!

"What I want
And what I need
Has now become the same thing
You've been offering."

Funny how this part of one of their songs, has taken a new meaning with this contest Hehe!

Thank you so much for your consideration. I will pray, cross my fingers, and check my email everyday in hopes of hearing that I was graciously chosen to meet Daughtry. If I win I will be giving my tickets I already purchased to two girls who LOVE DAughtry and were not able to get tickets before they sold out! You would make my (And their) dreams come true!

- Sonia Lynn Valdez-Peterson

Age: 22

Seattle, WA