Kelly Clarkson’s American Idol Run Inspired Iraqi Refugee (Video)

Kelly Clarkson’s run on American Idol back in 2002 inspired so many artists, including Emmanuel Kelly who dropped by to sing his new song “Never Alone” on the American Idol OG winner and The Voice coaches afternoon talk show.

Kelly Clarkson inspired Iraqi refugee to follow his dreams  

An Aussie family eventually adopted The Australian X Factor alum. “I was actually found in a box in a park in Iraq by some soldiers who then took me to an orphanage.” He continued, “I was raised there for the next seven years of my life.” Humanitarian Moira Kelly eventually adopted him and  brought him to Australia. Emmanuel had suffered limb deficiencies as a result of chemical warfare. With the help of his new family, Emmanuel learned to walk and use a knife and fork for the first time.

Rock music was his salvation in the orphanage, the singer explained. But when he arrived in Australia, he realized that he could make a career out of music. And it didn’t hurt that a young singer popped up on his TV screen to show him the way. 

Kelly helped Emmanuel realize, that if she could make it in show business, so could he.

“I remember one day I was watching a TV show and that TV show was American Idol,” said Emmanuel. “And I see this woman and I’m thinking now she’s got one hell of a voice right? And it was you!” Emmanuel had an epiphany. “And so that day, I realize if she can do it, I can as well and I’m going to push on and fight.” Emmanuel added, “There were a bunch of inspirations, but there were were three to four key inspirations: Andrea Bocelli, Coldplay and yourself…”

Emmanuel competed on Australian X Factor back in 2011 with a performance of John Lennon’s “Imagine”. He earned a standing ovation and a ticket to the next round. However, judge Guy Sebastian eliminated Emmanuel from the third day of bootcamp.

https://youtu.be/yqg5g_HHw1E

About mj santilli 34841 Articles
Founder and editor of mjsbigblog.com, home of the awesomest fan community on the net. I love cheesy singing shows of all kinds, whether reality or scripted. I adore American Idol, but also love The Voice, Glee, X Factor and more!