Courtesy: Fox
Known for his aggressive and upbeat rock performances, James Durbin shifted gears Wednesday night on American Idol, performing "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" by George Harrison of The Beatles. The song was chosen as part of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Week, where each ‘Idol’ contestant was able to select a tune from the "500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll" exhibit at Cleveland’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Once again, James Durbin knocked it out of the park and gave a heartfelt,
emotional performance. After singing, he was moved to tears and later confessed
that the song was for his family, which includes a wife and young son.
Durbin’s song came amid amazing performances from the eight other contestants,
further solidifying this season as one of best in the show’s ten-year history.
While James has a good chance at making at least the top three and possibly
winning the entire American Idol competition, he will need to garner as much
support as possible from his fans, which include a significant number of
individuals within the special needs community.
At an early age, Durbin was diagnosed with both Tourette’s and Asperger’s
Syndromes. As a result, he has faced many difficulties and challenges over the
years, which make his accomplishments to this point all-the-more significant.
This week, viewers saw a softer and more subdued side to James and it’s safe to
say he earned many votes from his performance.
What a beautiful and emotional performance James — you brought me to tears.
Loved it!
Thanks for sharing this Gary, I will forward on my facebook page. Whilst we are unable to vote for James, there are thousands of Australian families sending our support!
I am so impressed with James Durbin. He should be admired for all that he has gone through at such a young age. I have a very dear friend whose son has autism and a daughter who has Asperger’s Syndrome. I sent her this site so she can show it to her children to see that they too can accomplish something in life as this young man has done. I am also a former Special Educational teacher and I have taught students who have these types of learning disabilities. How I wish I could show them this video of James. He is a true inspiration to young people who have his type of disabilities. I truly hope he wins!
OMG i replayed that song 10 times over I am so touched by his strength and humbleness. I wish him all the best and hope he can make it BIG. Goes to show people should not be judged or branded and should always be treated with love and respect….reminds me of the song….”how do you like me now?”