Idol Chatter & Voice Views

Austin Percario is one of at least two Season 13 American Idol contestants with an X Factor past.

Initially eliminated from Season 1 of Simon Cowell’s singing show, he was picked as one of 10 members of an all-teen group called Intensity.

Austin Percario during his audition in Boston for American Idol. (FOX Photo)

The group made it all the way to The X Factor finals before being eliminated, finishing 12th overall.

In an exit interview, Austin said it was difficult to leave the show because it “literally makes you feel like a star.”

Well, he might get another shot on Idol. With his stage mom by his side, Austin wowed the judges with a performance of “Titanium.”

Jennifer complimented him on a great voice and look. And Keith said he was “fascinated” by Austin’s voice, saying it was a combination of raspy cool with a nice pop sound — “a really interesting mix.”

And Harry Connick Jr. predicted his stage mom might wind up spending a lot of time around stages.

In his Road to Hollywood video, the 17-year-old from Warren, N.J., says “I’m a really weird kid, and I totally accept that.”

As for musical inspirations, he points to Jesse J., The Fray and Michael Buble, which, he admits, is a weird combination.

But Austin also says one of his strengths is that he believes he knows himself musically and that he’s hoping to be involved in all parts of his upcoming American Idol performances, “not just showing up on the stage and singing.”

Below are a couple of samples of Austin singing. You can hear more by visiting his YouTube channel.

And if you’d like to follow Austin, here are links to his Facebook page and Twitter account (@AustinPercario).

“Say Something” (live cover)

“Warrior” (cover)