American Idol, the nationwide singing competition, returns tonight at 8 PM for its third season on ABC in search of the best undiscovered talent in the country. Eagles Cheerleader Kyle Tanguay is among the many talented individuals who hope to receive a golden ticket to Hollywood. After being named the first male Eagles Cheerleader in more than three decades, Kyle took that same energy to the stage of American Idol.
"The opportunity presented itself to audition for American Idol," Tanguay said. "I pushed myself out of my comfort zone to audition to be an Eagles Cheerleader, and I took that same mentality into this endeavor. I just went for it! The whole experience was truly amazing, and I am so grateful that I can apply the skills I've learned from being an Eagles Cheerleader in different avenues of my life."
The senior at the University of the Arts has an extensive background in dance, but no prior professional singing experience. As a dancer, Kyle performed in an internationally released music video, danced in a benefit show for the Dizzy Feet Foundation in Los Angeles with Derek Hough, and trained with Travis Wall from So You Think You Can Dance and Maddy Ziegler from Dance Moms.
"I sang in high school chorus, very back line of the group. Never did a solo," Tanguay laughed. "I have never sung even close to professionally in my life. I learned songs through karaoke channels on YouTube."
Ryan Seacrest once again hosts this season of American Idol featuring the star-studded judging panel of Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie, and Bobby Bones serving as a mentor to the contestants. While Kyle has never had a solo voice performance in front of an audience prior to auditioning, he showcases his talents to the three legendary artists.
"It was a tremendous honor to sing in front of Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie," said Tanguay, whose audition airs next Sunday, February 23. "They are music icons, bona fide superstars. For my first legitimate performance to be in front of them, it was a dream come true."
After a whirlwind of a rookie season, Kyle is ecstatic for the American Idol season to kick off tonight. As he does in all avenues of his life, Kyle will proudly represent the Philadelphia Eagles.
"I love what I do as an Eagles Cheerleader, and I want to show that to everyone I meet," Kyle said. "I am so excited and proud to bring that Eagles passion to people all over the country through American Idol."
