An Idol performer to watch in N.J. auditions

Season 10

An Idol performer to watch in N.J. auditions

July 29, 2010 By Mark Franklin 0

Erin Kelly of Long Island, N.Y., and Ace Gilliam, of Las Vegas, celebrate making it to the next stage of competition outside the New Orleans Arena where auditions for the singing competition series, I can pretty much guarantee you who will be one of the featured contestants when American Idol airs its season 10 audition episode from Rutherford, N.J.

Folks, meet Anthony Riley, 23, of Philadelphia.

What makes Anthony so special?

Well, he’s a street performer. And, three years ago, he was arrested for singing too loudly on Rittenhouse Square in Philly.

He not only beat the disorderly conduct charge, he was later awarded a $27,500 in the case.

At the time of his arrest, he was singing Sam Cooke’s “A Change is Gonna Come.”

And he plans to sing the same song at the New Jersey auditions next week.

Now, do you think American Idol will be able to resist telling the story of the singer who took on city hall and won?

The Associated Press moved a short item about Anthony earlier today. Here’s a more extensive story, courtesy of the Philadelphia Inquirer.

The East Rutherford auditions — the closest season 10 audition site — are set for Tuesday with registration beginning on Sunday.

After that, Idol has two more audition stops scheduled: Aug. 11 in Austin, Texas, and Aug. 18 in San Francisco, Calif.

Note: Are you from York County and planning to audition in New Jersey? If so, I’d love to hear from you. Just leave a message below or e-mail me at mfranklin@yorkdispatch.com.