‘Idol’ hopeful enjoys spotlight

When it comes to talent and determination, Elysia Villanueva is the ultimate winner. Villanueva, a junior at Mead High School, has traveled around America to audition for “American Idol.” Her latest travels took her to New York City after winning a regional competition.

Villanueva’s first audition for “American Idol’s” eighth season was in San Francisco, where more than 20,000 people auditioned. Next she headed to Phoenix, but was not selected. Then she found her break right here in Washington.

In Pasco, 70 contestants competed to win a free trip to New York and the chance to perform for “American Idol” producers. Villanueva’s 30-second audition singing Mary J. Blige’s “I’m Going Down,” got her into the top seven, and she won the contest with her 60-second audition. She received a free flight to New York and $500 in spending money.

Villanueva got to spend four days sightseeing in the Big Apple with her Aunt Menerva. “It was incredible, we got to see Times Square and Ground Zero,” she said. One of the biggest highlights was when her favorite artist, Jordin Sparks, showed up at the audition to wish everyone good luck.

Singing has always been a part of Villanueva’s life, she said. “When I was a kid my parents would always give me $5 if I would sing at the family reunions. I would because I wanted the money.” Family has always been her biggest support, she said, and she wants everyone to be able to be a part of her big adventure.

She began singing in a middle school choir and was soon performing the national anthem at baseball games. Her biggest performance was for a televised Spokane Chiefs game. “When I first started singing it was nerve-racking and the microphone was shaking. But then I got over it and I loved it, and then I couldn’t believe it was over.” Villanueva said.

Villanueva, who has a sister and bother, is the daughter of Dave and Laura Villanueva.