There has been quite a bit of hoopla around the new season of American Idol, which aired Feb. 16 with a two-hour-long episode featuring auditions from multiple locations. This being the third season to air on ABC and eighteenth overall, the singing competition continues to draw the public’s attention.

The show welcomes back panel judges, Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryant, along with host Ryan Seacrest and in-house mentor Bobby Bones. A new outside-the-box take on the show has produced stars like Alejandro Aranda and Catie Turner, who although haven’t assumed the status of the show’s previous winners, such as Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson, have placed these artists in their niche areas within the music industry.

This powerhouse celebrity panel is met with an equally locally famous Philly personality this season. Kyle Tanguay, 21, the only current male cheerleader for the Philadelphia Eagles is loved by his city and has hit the audition stage since the show’s airing.

Arriving with his entire professional cheer squad, Tanguay brought more than just his pom-poms. He chose to sing “Mercy” by Shawn Mendes and surprised the judges with his vocal skills. Although nerves were apparent, as the cheerleader hasn’t had a private singing lesson in his life, the singer offered a voice that fits the show’s idea of a workable talent. He was put through with three “yes” votes with cautioning advice that he has some work to do to.

Let's continue to cheer him on!

 

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