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American Idol auditions bring thousands to Canalside

Thomas O'Neil-White

Thousands of aspiring musicians lined up for a shot at fame as American Idol auditions were held at Canalside on Sunday.

With the weather more suited for mid-October than early-September, artists from near and far bundled up and stood in several lines before entering a large tent to perform in front of talent judges.

For the people waiting for their turn, standing in line was a chance for them to get their voices, instruments and routines in order.

Demitria is a local vocalist who hopes to make it big.

“I’ve been singing since I was in 3rd grade and I’ve been on and off in choral and chorus, stuff such as that, always at home and music was a kind of a medicine for me through these years, so I’ve always wanted to sing," she said.

Demitria lists the lead singer of Canadian electronic pop duo Purity Ring as one of her main influences but says she doesn’t discriminate when it comes to music.

Credit Thomas O'Neil-White
An aspiring singer waiting to perform.

“I don’t really have a preference. I love everything. I love the fact that people produce songs and it’s from their heart, where they’re coming from and I can relate to that.”

Aaron Sager came all the way from Watkins Glen. A guitarist, he says if there was one song he could play in front of the judges on the actual show, he would play “L.A. Woman” by The Doors. He cites late singer Jim Morrison as a huge influence.

This is the first time American Idol has come to Buffalo. Season 17 is in production, but there is no word on when the new season will premier.

Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Thomas moved to Western New York at the age of 14. A graduate of Buffalo State College, he majored in Communications Studies and was part of the sports staff for WBNY. When not following his beloved University of Kentucky Wildcats and Boston Red Sox, Thomas enjoys coaching youth basketball, reading Tolkien novels and seeing live music.
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