The Life and Times (past, present and future) of a Clay Aiken Fan - the Music & The Man

Clay Aiken - The Journey Continues

2011-09-23T13:35:00.000-07:00

Today marks an anniversary of sorts for fans who have embarked on this amazing journey with Clay Aiken. On September 30, 2008 I wrote and posted a blog titled The Journey to Clay Aiken (I'm not going to repost it, so feel free to click on the link if you're interested).

I started thinking about what my life would have been like had I not chosen to be understanding and sympathetic, but had I chosen the path of anger and resentment.

The first thing I would have lost would have been all of the amazing memories that I had prior to 2008. All of the fantastic times I had, all those wonderful memories, would have been overrun and tainted by anger - how sad.

Second, I would have missed out on creating new memories.......

I would not have laughed at scooters and whistles.

I would not have cried while listening to a wonderful story of a teacher who cared about a lonely little boy, who made a huge impact.

I would not have wondered "what the hell was that!" when I heard Clay's own version of Unchained Melody for the first time - a moment that left me breathless and wanting more.

I would not have had a wonderful girl's weekend in New York City, seeing Spamalot five times in four days - savoring those final days.

I would not know that it's about damn time! or to Bring it On!!!

I would not know that some kids are just.........

I would not have witnessed Clay & Ruben (or is it Ruben & Clay) in all their timeless glory.

I would not have had a Meet & Greet, chatting about the weather.

I would not have visited Raleigh, been inspired by the National Inclusion Project's Champions of Change Gala or tried NC BBQ (and all the trimmings).

I would not have experienced animation, twitterpation and anticipation.

I would have missed out on Clay dancing.

I would have missed out on friends, fun, laughter, tears, anger, excitement and hours of speculation.

But most importantly, I would have missed out being smitten all over again at every photo, every TV appearance, every tour, every blog, every interview. I would have missed out on learning about new causes and continuing my education on making a difference in this ever changing world. I would have missed out on Clay just being Clay, missed out on realizing that he hasn't changed, he's the same caring, talented, funny, intelligent man he was in 2003.

So, for that, I need to say

Clay, thank you - and to quote a book that you brought to my consciousness - "For you, a thousand times over"

Clay Aiken - Hello World

2011-09-04T12:34:00.000-07:00

We interrupt this Clay Aiken blog for a special message.

Hello world. My name is Piper Adele and I have not yet entered this world - I'm still growing. At this point, no one knows my future - if I will be born as a typically developing child or a child with special needs. My hope is, however I am born, that I am born into a world that is caring and accepting of all people, regardless of their abilities.

This is why I'm reaching out from the womb and asking you to please vote for I Am Norm during the month of September in the Pepsi Refresh Challenge.

I Am Norm's Mission Statement is:

We are united in our commitment to a world where people of various abilities have equal opportunities. We believe that diversity makes us stronger and that discrimination breaks us down. We know that hatred is a learned behavior and that we can all strive to rise above fear and prejudice. We understand firsthand what we gain when everyone is included in our schools and our communities and how much we lose when anyone is left out. If you want to join us, click here

With the help of many sponsors - The National Inclusion Project, Including Samuel, Mitsubishi Electric Foundation and The New Hampshire Charitable Foundation - I Am Norm is an effort led by youth to benefit youth. While the mission may be to impact the youth of this country (and in November I will be included in that mix), their dream would seep into the fabric of our society, helping to break down walls, to promote inclusion and diversity.

Please, if you have just a couple of minutes every day, help I Am Norm into the Top 10 - voting continues every day until the end of September.

(now back to your regularly scheduled programming - whatever and whenever that may be)

Clay Aiken and Lover All Alone

2011-07-04T22:26:00.000-07:00

I have edited this blog about 20 times - first starting out about Clay Aiken and David Foster penning the poignant Lover All Alone - scratch that. Then I started typing about Clay Aiken, the activist - everything from National Inclusion Project to UNICEF, and how admirable I found it that he went into countries, like Uganda and Somalia, that would imprison or kill him for simply being who he is - scratch that.

So let's just get down to brass tacks.

In 2010 a rash of LGBT suicides brought the harassment of LGBT youth to the forefront of the American consciousness. The statistics are staggering the pain unacceptable. As reported on (and I recommend you please click on this link for additional information) Youth Pride Inc.

"And on my own it’s hard to tell my heart
it will be all right
This love it holds, will one day find a home."

26% of gay youth are forced to leave home because of conflicts with their families over their sexual identities. (Remafedi, G. (1987). Homosexuality: the adolescent’s perspective. Pediatrics, 79, 326-330.)

"But a lonesome tomorrow comes anyway
I’m alone for another day. Another day."

36.5 % of GLB youth grades 9-12 have attempted suicide. 20.5% of those attempts resulting in medical care. (Robin, L., Brener, N.D., Donahue, S.F., Hack, T., Hale, K., Goodenow, C. (2002). Associations between health risk behaviors and opposite-, same-, and both-sex sexual partners in representative samples of Vermont and Massachusetts high school students. Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, 156(4): pp. 349-55.)

"For all I know the feeling and the picture
That I’ve tried so hard to find isn’t mine.
Could be it’s all just a waiting game
Wanna share my everything."

84% of LGBT students report being verbally harassed (name calling, threats, etc.) because of their sexual orientation.

I hate breaking human beings down to statistics, but sometimes - in order to see the full picture it is a necessity.

For additional information, resources and help visit:

GLSEN: Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network

It Gets Better Project

The Trevor Project

My Rights Under The First Amendment

2011-01-11T09:05:00.000-08:00

“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

Ah the First Amendment. 220 years ago, when ¾ of the states ratified the Bill of Rights as Constitutional Amendments, do you think they ever envisioned Twitter, Facebook, Bloggers and message boards? Do you think they ever imagined that there would be a plethora of “unnamed sources” that would be driving our media? That the lives of private citizens would be invaded by paparazzi, cell phones and digital cameras? Do you think it ever crossed their minds that people would actually picket the funerals of fallen soldiers and innocent children to further their hate filled agendas?

As our ability to communicate has increased via the internet, our level of civility as a society has decreased exponentially. One merely has to visit online articles and read the comments – no subject is off limits, the comments will be taken over by people posting the most hateful and hurtful things under the guise of anonymity and all in the name of free speech. And heaven forbid anyone offer a differing opinion, or point out the flaws in their thought process. They will be jumped all over – those same people taking away THEIR right to freedom of speech. The sad reality is there are actually people sitting in their homes, day after day, searching out articles merely to call someone a name, to post a rumor, to belittle another human being or to ridicule those who are hurt, in mourning or in emotional turmoil. Bigotry and hatred are as old as time, but with the advent of the internet it seems more prevalent. It has seeped into every crevice of our society. What has happened to us?

Is there a way out of this downward spiral? As we experience societal changes, should our elected officials periodically review our First Amendment rights and alter them to keep up with these changes? Is there a way for them to do so and keep the original intent of the First Amendment intact? Or is this a societal issue? Do “we” need to all put our collective foot down and say enough is enough? Will the change only occur when the voices of many are raised in outrage?

With these rights come certain responsibilities. Should we be holding accountable those who choose to demean, to hate, to incite? Does one individual’s right to free speech circumvent the rights of others to live their lives free from fear, with dignity and a certain semblance of privacy?

I wish I knew the answers.

Clay Aiken, National Inclusion Project & The Pepsi Refresh Challenge

2010-10-03T10:10:00.000-07:00

One of the best things about being a fan of Clay Aiken is that I am constantly learning about new organizations that are out there doing great work. During the month of October, we are working hard to win a $50,000 grant for the National Inclusion Project from Pepsi in the Pepsi Refresh Challenge.

Helping us along are some amazing organizations, all new to me, and all working toward a single goal - making the lives children - and cats - better:

Cal Ripkin, Sr. Foundation, founded by Cal Ripken, Jr. and Bill Ripkin to honor their dad, Cal Sr. Per the Pepsi Refresh site, "The Cal Ripkin, Sr. Foundation helps build character and teach critical life lessons to underserved young people living in America's most distressed communities through baseball and softball themed programs". You can learn more about this great organization here Cal Ripkin, Sr. Foundation Website

Rett Syndrome Clinics, Oakland Children's Hospital and Cardinal Glennon are working to give girls with Rett syndrome a voice. Rett Syndrome is a neurological disorder affecting mostly girls. Children with Rett Syndrome often exhibit autistic-like behaviors, such as repetitive hand movements, prolonged toe walking, body rocking and sleep problems. There is currently no cure for Rett Syndrome. You can find out more about Katie's Clinic here and more about Rett Syndrome here

Blind Cat Rescue & Sanctuary, Inc., is working to answer the needs of rescue and sanctuary of blind cats deemed unadoptable and killed in regular shelter environments. They are now looking to expand their rescue to provide sanctuary to FEL/FIV+ cats. You can learn more about the Blind Cat Rescue & Sanctuary here

Children's Rare Disease Network is an advocacy organization that provides resources for families affected by rare diseases. They strive to build collaborative programs, including advocacy, information and education, that will impact the entire community of over 100 million individuals impacted by rare diseases. You can learn more about Children's Rare Disease Network here

Brendan B. McGinnis Congenital CMV Foundation was founded by Brendan's mom in order to raise awareness about the leading cause of of childhood disabilities, cytomegalovirus or congenital CMV. Did you know that every hour a child is disabled by CMV? Did you know that CMV can cause death, seizures, mental retardation, cerebral palsy, deafness and blindness? Want to learn more? You can learn more about the Brendan B. McGinnis Congenital CMV Foundation here

The Center for Courageous Kids is a world class medical camp that provides year round, cost free camping experiences for seriously ill and disabled children and their families. Find out more about The Center for Courageous Kids here

1p36 Deletion Support & Awareness. 1p36 Deletion Syndrome is a newly discovered genetic syndrome that affects 1 in 5,000-10,000 births. Unfortunately, many medical professionals have never heard of this Syndrome and can go undiagnosed for several years. Their mission is to assist individuals affected by chromosome 1p36 abnormalities and also provide both support and education to their families and increasing the awareness of chromosome 1p36 abnormalities in the public and the medical community. You can learn more about 1p36 Deletion Support & Awareness here

ARC of Madison County is an advocacy group and a resource for people with various disabilities. Per their Pepsi Refresh Page, "The Madison County Community has come together to help build a Handicap Accessible Playground. This playground would be built at Lake Reba Park and would be an inclusive place "Where All Kids Can Play Together."" To learn more about The Arc please visit here

The National Inclusion Project serves to bridge the gap that exists between young people with disabilities and the world around them. To learn more about National Inclusion Project please visit here and I highly recommend you watch this too

Two Years Later - I still just see Clay Aiken

2010-09-23T14:48:00.000-07:00

It has been two years since Clay Aiken came out to the public. I wrote a blog detailing my journey to Clay Aiken and thought I would revisit that blog and add a few additional words - here we go, let's step back two years (this post is a little long, but hopefully you'll find it worth the read):

The Journey to Clay Aiken

Now seems like the best time to discuss, in detail, my journey to Clay Aiken.

The journey begins during American Idol Season 2. This remains the ONLY season that I watched from the very first show to the very last. The reason I watched? Clay Aiken. Actually, Clay Aiken and Ruben Studdard. I was enthralled with this duo - who'd have thunk that America would embrace the larger than life Velvet Teddy Bear and the skinny teacher from North Carolina with the voice of an angel!

When I first saw Clay Aiken, I saw a young man, in need of a SERIOUS make over, but who could sing like no other. I didn't see straight or gay - I just saw Clay.

As American Idol progressed, I fell in love. I would never have imagined it - it had never happened before and it has not happened since. I fell in love with the voice. I fell in love with the smile. I fell in love with the sparkle in his eye. I fell in love with his presence. I didn't fall in love with straight or gay - I fell in love with Clay.

During the finale, I held my breath with the rest of America. I kind of had the outcome figured out, knew it would be Ruben, but I wanted Clay to win the whole thing. I watched as Ryan Seacrest opened that envelope. I watched Clay watching Ruben. I heard the words "Ruben Studdard" and I saw Clay gracefully step back and let Ruben shine. At that moment, I didn't see straight or gay - I saw just Clay, a man who was genuinely proud of and thrilled for his friend.

And then I watched. I watched as many interviews and appearances as I possibly could. I watched Clay on Oprah, on The Today Show, on The Early Show, on Ellen, on Jimmy Kimmel Live, on The Tonight Show. I watched him become more comfortable with himself, more confident. Clay is always the best guest on any show - he is funny, charming, caring, humble. Through it all was always that voice, the voice that drew me in from the beginning. I never saw straight or gay - I just saw Clay, growing and becoming the amazing entertainer that he is today.

Then I learned. I learned more about UNICEF. I learned more about Autism. I learned more about inclusion. I learned that, while I'm just one person, I can make a difference. I volunteered for Special Olympics. I volunteered at the Food Bank. I walked during the Race for the Cure. I grew to be a more altruistic human being. Clay brought this to me by being an activist for people whose voices are not heard. I never saw straight or gay - I just saw Clay, a man with an amazing heart, who uses his celebrity to bring some good into this world.

Then I witnessed. My first Clay Aiken concert was the 2006 Christmas tour. I was blessed to be in attendance at the Merrillville concert (yay me!!!!). What I witnessed was awe inspiring. Clay is so at home on the stage and he wraps his amazing voice and personality around each and every person that room. I have never seen an entertainer more in tune with the audience, interact and feed off them. Each concert is different, because Clay pays as close attention to the crowd as they do to him. The 2007 Summer tour is another high point. I went to five - yes FIVE concerts! Each and every one was different. There is nothing in this world like a Clay Aiken concert - nothing. I never saw straight or gay - I just saw Clay, singing, "dancing", chatting, laughing, joking and walking miles of bus lines.

I also saw the dark side. I became an Internet fan after the AI5 finale. I have met some amazing people on the Internet, but I have also seen some of the most vile hatred I have ever experienced. I watched a good man being hounded, harassed, abused, ridiculed and bullied. It was relentless and mind numbing. I cannot imagine having to put up with it, but Clay did with amazing grace and dignity. While the "press" screamed GAY GAY GAY - I never saw it - I just saw Clay and my heart bled for what this gentle man had to endure.

Now we come full circle. I read the People Magazine article and watched the Good Morning America interview. I saw an extremely courageous man make a difficult decision for the sake of his child. I felt for an entire family, people I don't even know, when Clay decided it was time to open up about the most private part of his life. I saw and heard the words "I'm gay" but you know what? I just saw Clay - the same man I fell in love with on American Idol, the same man I've listened to, learned from and enjoyed for over five years. I still don't see straight or gay - I just see Clay.

Today? I still just see Clay

Here's what it is for me with Clay. Everything in his life has shaped him to be the man that he is. It really took me back when I first read posts expressing anger at his mom for not doing something about his stepfather. First, it's not really my place to make judgments on people unless I've experienced their exact circumstances. Not similar, but actually witnessed their life on a day-to-day basis. Even if I would have "done things different", I feel that everything that Clay experienced growing up - the pain, the fear, the humiliation coupled with the love and understanding, has made him a very strong and caring human being.

Had he lived a "softer" life I'm afraid he may not have been able to survive what's been thrown at him the past 8 years. With his life experiences, he's learned how to deal with things. I'm sure they still hurt, he admitted they did, but he has certain mechanisms in place to help him cope because he's been coping all his life. His life experiences have helped him deal with the "business", the labels, the media and to a certain extent the fans.

As for his sexuality, it was never an issue for me (I wrote that long winded blog about I don't see straight or gay, I just see Clay). I don't love Clay despite his sexuality, I love Clay because of his sexuality - it's as much a part of him as his freckles, eye color and those glorious size 13 feet - it's part of what makes Clay Clay. I truly believe if he wasn't gay, he would be a different person - it's part of his personality and his being, and I kind of like him just the way he is. I love that he chose to protect his family - even at his own expense. I love that he chose his own path, was never bullied into saying something before both he and his family were ready.

In this life we are blessed with the ability to make choices. When it comes right down to it

Given the choice between forgiveness and condemnation - I choose to forgive
Given the choice between compassion and cruelty - I choose compassion
Given the choice between understanding and intolerance - I choose to understand
Given the choice between love and hate - I choose to love

I guess you could say that I chose Clay. My world would be darker without him.

clay aiken, People Magazine, coming out, two year anniversary
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Clay Aiken - Tried and True - A True Treasure

2010-06-01T14:40:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken's first CD with Decca is a treasure. In all honesty, I was a little trepidatious when I first heard that Clay's first release with Decca was going to be an album with music from the 50s and 60s. I am happy to admit, I was wrong. If you are looking for a note by note replica of the originals, this CD is probably not for you. If you want a new spin on these classics and you're looking for music that makes you want to dance, cry and love - this is just the ticket.

These songs are classics for a reason and Clay has adeptly walked the line between honoring the past and breathing new life into them beautifully. The arrangements are superb (bravo to Chris Walden, Ben Cohn and Jesse Vargas, job well done). The production value is top of the line (kudos to Alex Christensen). Every song is a treat and, with every listen, you hear a nuance you missed the first time - whether it's a Flugelhorn or a bit Clay's impeccable phrasing. Clay Aiken - what can you say? Clay has an amazing voice - his range, his tone and timbre, his phrasing and interpretation. This truly is Clay Aiken at his best because it truly is Clay Aiken, singing in his pure voice.

Stand outs for me are Moon River (with an amazing guitar solo by Vince Gill), It's Impossible, Crying (I have never heard Clay with a better duet partner. Linda Eder and Clay Aiken need to record together again, their voices blend beautifully). It's Only Make Believe (love the bass line). Mack The Knife (just pure, unadulterated fun). What Kind of Fool Am I (great solo by David Sanborn and Clay's vocals are haunting). Misty (always one of my favorites). Suspicious Minds (it's pretty cool to hear that guitar intro by Mark James, the composer of this gem). These are the stand outs, but every song on this CD is worth the listen. It's an emotional mixture of fun, sadness, longing and laughter.

Bravo to all who were involved in making this CD. It is a not to be missed treasure.

Clay Aiken, Ruben Studdard & Snoqualmie, Washington

2010-04-01T10:42:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken & Ruben Studdard are performing at Snoqualmie Casino! Well, and a few more venues....

Clayonline News

Clay Aiken News Network

^^^ Check it out for more Clay Aiken & Ruben Studdard dates

Needless to say, I'm extremely excited that Clay & Ruben will be within driving distance of me!!! So excited, I actually mentioned it to my husband and he says WE can go (note that WE please, it's a HUGE step forward).

AND, if that's not enough, check out this great PSA for We Give a Damn, including Clay Aiken. Unfortunately, their website has crashed due to traffic, but keep checking at Wegiveadamn.org

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, ruben studdard, snoqualmie casino, We Give a Damn

Clay Aiken & Ken Green - Comeback Kids

2010-02-04T13:46:00.000-08:00

You may ask yourself - what do Clay Aiken and Ken Green have in common? On the surface, probably not much - but if you dig just a bit deeper you will find some parallels.

In reading the new blog by our friend Larry the Golfer No Damn Three Putts: A Golf Blog with Balls I was struck by Ken's story - a story of trials, tribulations, courage and perseverance. In doing a bit more research, I realized that Ken is my kind of guy! You gotta love a man who gets fined by the PGA for signing autographs while playing.

So what are the parallels? Both Ken and Clay are working hard toward being at the top of their game, a comeback so to speak. Now, I KNOW how I'm going to support Clay and, thanks to Larry's blog, I have also found a way to support Ken (and I get a pretty green hat in the process!!).

If you are as taken by Ken's story as I am Click Here and you can help too.

Ken, if you read this, good luck to you!! Remember, no matter what life throws your way, you can rise up from the Ashes

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, ken green, larry fein, golf, masters, Ashes,

Clay Aiken - Seven Years and Counting

2010-01-28T11:30:00.000-08:00

Today marks the seven year anniversary that Clay Aiken stepped before Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson in Atlanta, Georgia. I feel pretty confident that most of America was thinking that Clay was yet another one of those people auditioning that the Judge and the rest of the world would be making fun of for months to come. Little did we know that the skinny, bespectacled red head from North Carolina had the voice of a lifetime.

But it doesn't just stop at the voice - there are many singers out there, some technically better than Clay. With Clay, it's also the man - his humor, his intelligence, his heart. The voice is what captured us from the beginning, but it is the man himself who keeps us enthralled and coming back for more.

I'm not going to say that it's all been fun - this love affair is most definitely a roller coaster ride, filled with ups and downs. One of my favorite movies is Parenthood. I was watching it just the other day and there was a line that really struck me and made me think immediately of what Clay and his fans have been through. To set the stage, Gil (played by Steve Martin) is bitterly complaining about the complications in his life. His grandmother wanders into the room and starts talking:

Grandma: You know, when I was nineteen, Grandpa took me on a roller coaster.
Gil: Oh?
Grandma: Up, down, up, down. Oh, what a ride!
Gil: What a great story.
Grandma: I always wanted to go again. You know, it was just so interesting to me that a ride could make me so frightened, so scared, so sick, so excited, and so thrilled all together! Some didn't like it. They went on the merry-go-round. That just goes around. Nothing. I like the roller coaster. You get more out of it.

You know what? I like the roller coaster too - you really do get more out of it. The coaster brings you together, you hold each other tight and then let loose with screams of joy and excitement. When it's over you can't wait to get right back on the ride and do it all over again.

So here's a toast to Clay Aiken and the Clay Nation. Here's to many more years of excitement, laughs, music and learning.

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, american idol, audition, always and forever, seven years, parenthood

Lessons From Clay Aiken - Haiti Fundraiser

2010-01-16T19:52:00.000-08:00

This blog is about the most important lesson I have learned from Clay Aiken. Since January 12, 2010, we have been reading about Haiti, which has been devastated by an Earthquake measuring 7.0 in magnitude. Tens of thousands (actually it's more than likely hundreds of thousands) of people are dead and millions are in need of assistance in the form of food, water, medicine, medical attention.

So the most important lesson I've learned from Clay Aiken? Through his Ambassadorship with UNICEF, I have learned to give when I can and what I can. Early on in my journey, it would sometimes take a gentle reminder from Clay to draw my attention to an area of the world in need. Not any more. I am now following Clay's example and rather than him asking me to donate, I'm just donating - because it's the right thing to do. As citizens of this world, we need to take care of each other - Clay Aiken has opened my eyes to that.

How can you help? Please read over at The Clay Nation News Network together, we can make a difference.

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, clay aiken news network, haiti, UNICEF,

Clay Aiken - A Retrospective

2010-01-11T10:35:00.000-08:00

I have been diligently working on a Clay Aiken Retrospective series. These videos are meant to chronicle Clay's journey from American Idol to present. I have completed four and I am now working on the 5th (and it's slooooowwww going).

I have put together a special custom player hoping these videos will play back to back. Clay Aiken has done an INCREDIBLE amount of interviews, special appearances, videos and recordings in a very short time frame. I hope you enjoy!

AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE CLAY AIKEN NEWS NETWORK!!!! Please be sure you stop by and wish them a very special day and offer congratulations on a job well done!

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, clay aiken retrospective, american idol, the tonight show, Tyra Banks, jimmy kimmel live, measure of a man, merry christmas with love, a thousand different ways, on my way here

Clay Aiken & Golfing for Inclusion

2009-10-26T18:31:00.000-07:00

The National Inclusion Project, co-founded by Clay Aiken, has announced its 3rd Annual Golfing for Inclusion.

"The Event kicks off with Brunch and a Golf Clinic conducted by a PGA professional, followed by a round of golf on Mirasol’s exclusive Sunset course. The golf tournament will be a scramble format and include contests and prizes including hole-in-one opportunities. Immediately after golf, an Awards Reception will be held to recognize the winners of golf competitions and team placement. The Event concludes with dinner including a live and silent auction and entertainment with a performance by Clay Aiken."

For more information, please refer to the Project's press release 3rd Annual Golfing for Inclusion in Palm Beach Gardens, FL

Clay Aiken and sunny Florida!!! Wish I golfed!!!

and I just want to put this out there too:

"Clay Aiken has released five successful albums and launched eight well-received tours. In October 2003, he launched his first solo album Measure of a Man. The record sold 3 million copies and debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. With 613,000 copies sold in the first week, it was the highest selling first album for a solo artist in ten years, going double-platinum and netting Aiken an American Music Award.

In 2004, Aiken released Merry Christmas with Love (2004), the fastest selling Christmas album in Nielsen Soundscan history. He followed that success with A Thousand Different Ways (2006), All is Well (2006), and On My Way Here (2008). Notably, Aiken earned the distinction of being only the eighth artist to ever have his first four albums debut in the Billboard Top 5. In 2004, Aiken wrote a best-selling memoir. Readers and critics embraced his style and his message in Learning to Sing: Hearing the Music in Your Life, making the book an instant New York Times best seller. Most recently Aiken has signed with Universal Decca records and is planning on the release of his sixth album in early 2010."

LIFE IS GOOD!!!!

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, golfing for inclusion, national inclusion project, the country club at mirasol

Clay Aiken & The Champions

2009-10-23T07:12:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken sure knows how to put on a great gala!! I was fortunate to attend the National Inclusion Project's 2009 Champions Gala on October 17, 2009.

The National Inclusion Project was co-founded by Clay Aiken and Diane Bubel in 2003. Most impressive to me was how much the foundation has grown in the past six years. Amazing, when you consider that what started out as a project for College credit has grown into a leader in its field.

It's just too much to type out, so here are some of the highlights from Diane Bubel's speech:

Charity Navigator recently awarded the National Inclusion Project its highest rating, making it the Project the highest rated non-profit in their field
The Project has received accolades and developed partnerships with the likes of State Farm, Mitsubishi Electric, the University of Minnesota, Johns Hopkins University, the University of New Hampshire's Institute on Disability, the Million Dollar Round Table and the FPG Child Development Institute
Camp Shriver was started by the University of Massachusetts and named after Eunice Shriver, a pioneer in disability advocacy, and one of the most respected organizations in their field. The director of Camp Shriver has called the Let's All Play curriculum "genius" and has led the charge to have Camp Shriver revamp their program. They now operate under the Project's Let's All Play Model

In all honesty, there are too many high points to even begin to put them all into words - so I tried to consolidate them into a video. Hope you enjoy.

Technorati Tags: 2009 champions gala, camp shriver, charity navigator, clay aiken, Dr. Gregory P. Byrne, mitsubishi electric, national inclusion project, Patrick Henry Hughes, Patrick John Hughes, sparkle effect

Clay Aiken & TweeterHell

2009-09-23T16:21:00.000-07:00

It's been almost a week since the Clay Aiken fans stopped voting on the TweeterHell, er, TweeterWall World Idol Poll. Clay's fans came together en masse for one last American Idol poll, and we went out in style. I am so very proud of the Clay Nation!!!!

Clay Aiken has moved beyond American Idol and it's time for the fans to do the same. Time to look forward, and not back. So, good bye to American Idol, good bye to RCA/19eieio. We had quite an interesting time with you, but now we're looking forward to what Decca has to offer the incredible talent that is Clay Aiken.

Here is my homage to the past. Clay Aiken has risen from the Ashes

and to celebrate our new beginning? Vote for National Inclusion Project to win $10,000 from Christie Cookie Company!!!

Click on this link to vote

One vote per legitimate e-mail address!!! Remember Inclusion is the right thing to do!!!

On to DECCA!!!!

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, american idol, tweeter wall, world idol poll, Ashes, rca records, national inclusion project, christie cookie company

Clay Aiken - There's Just Something About Us

2009-08-29T19:11:00.000-07:00

There is just something about Clay Aiken. Not just that amazing voice, but his humor, intelligence, his big heart and, let's admit it, Clay Aiken is mighty easy on the eyes CLICK CLICK CLICK AWAY AT CLAY!!! oh, and as requested by the owner of this photo, here is the link - give it a click or two too!!! @deccalabelgroup

Okay, now that we've all had the opportunity to gaze at Clay Aiken's gorgeous face, let's contemplate his golden voice.

Clay's Aiken's latest CD, On My Way Here, is one of the best kept secrets in the music industry today. The tracks range from upbeat to inspirational to jazzy to just downright sexy. Here's one of those songs, a gorgeous love song - listen to the words, listen to the voice. I'm posting a montage without a single picture of Clay in it (there will be fewer distractions that way). Turn down the lights, get a nice glass of wine, light a few candles and let the music consume you (sigh). And when you're done? Let me know your thoughts!!!

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, decca records, something about us, clay aiken on my way here,

CLAY AIKEN SIGNS WITH DECCA RECORDS

2009-08-11T07:56:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken announced today at his Official Fan Site that he has signed with Universal's Decca Records.

Clay's in good company, Universal Music Group the largest family of record labels in the recording industry and is one of the "big four" record companies.

Congratulations to Clay Aiken! We cannot wait for 2010 to hear you singing to us again!! Hey, that rhymes!

Want More Clay Aiken? Check out

The Clay Aiken News Network
All That is Clay Aiken
Carolina On My Mind
The ConClayve
There Was a Man
Truth Rules
Clay, The Man

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, decca records, universal music group, the clay aiken news network, all that is clay aiken

Clay Aiken - A Whole Year

2009-08-08T20:52:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken blogged the words "He's Here!" exactly one year ago today. Can you believe it's been a whole year?

I wish Clay Aiken and Jaymes Foster all the best, they have been blessed with a precious gift - the gift of love, friendship and another soul to share it with. Parker, happy birthday little one - just remember, adults don't ALWAYS act like that, sometimes they're worse.

May your day be filled with giggles, hugs, kisses and some sticky fingers. May your life be filled with love. May all your dreams come true.

Not done celebrating this special day? Check out the following:

The Clay Aiken News Network
There Was a Man
Clay-The Man
Carolina on my Mind
All That is Clay Aiken

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, jaymes foster, parker foster aiken, the clay aiken news network,

Clay Aiken Announces National Inclusion Project

2009-08-06T16:22:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken has announced the new name for the foundation he co-founded with Diane Bubel (photo from the National Inclusion Project website).

In an open letter from both Clay Aiken and Diane Bubel they state in part:

"The Bubel/Aiken Foundation grew out of the relationship between the two of us and Diane’s son, Mike, a 13 year old with autism. The bond between us grew strong as we shared a vision of a world where children like Mike could be fully immersed in society. We had both witnessed children with disabilities repeatedly turned away from activities opened to typical children. We met while Clay was pursuing a degree in special education at UNC-Charlotte. As part of that pursuit, Clay completed an independent study project where he created a foundation that focused on providing the support system for recreational and educational programs around the country to open doors to children with disabilities that had thus far remained closed. We realized that an organized effort could encourage and facilitate community inclusion and empowerment of individuals with disabilities. This shared goal grew into reality on July 28, 2003 when we officially announced the creation of The Bubel/Aiken Foundation."

Per National Inclusion Project's site, in six years, the Foundation has worked with hundreds of programs, trained numerous staff members and leaders, and provided inclusive opportunities for over 20,000 children. For more information, please visit:

National Inclusion Project and The Clay Aiken News Network

also, check out
gerra730
Popcycleman
All that is Clay Aiken
Carolina On My Mind
MJsbigidolblog
Chexxxy's Pearls
Shy Eyewitness

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, the bubel/aiken foundation, national inclusion project, the clay aiken news network,

Clay Aiken - Mosey On In and Set a Spell

2009-07-30T07:58:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken makes every TV appearance he's on a memorable one. Clay charms the live audience and the viewing audience with his humor and talent. Today on The Clay Aiken News Network there is a poll - which entrance is your favorite?

Why don't ya saddle on up and mosey on over. You can view the photos and vote on your favorite Clay Aiken entrance, you'll be glad that you did.

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, the clay aiken news network, jimmy kimmel live

Clay Aiken Jukebox Tour sniff

2009-07-28T17:21:00.000-07:00

This morning on The Clay Aiken News Network they are, yet again, reminding me of another Clay Aiken tour that I missed out on - The Jukebox Tour.

I have watched an immeasurable amount of clack from this tour, but I had never watched any from the Tom's River Venue, so last night I did.

The first thing I noticed is that this venue must not have been very clack friendly - it would appear that SecretlyLovesClay was filming from inside of a bag? Also, there was not a lot of video and very few photos. When you're talking Clay Aiken fans, this is just not a good sign. I also noticed that the videographers weren't exactly sure what Clay was going to do next -as the tour progressed and they became more familiar with the Songs & Medlies - the clack got better (if you ever have a chance, check out SecretlyLovesClay, Elvis Medley, Vermont).

But, as any good Clay Aiken fan will, I tried anyway - here's a montage of the 50s Medley - all video filmed at Tom's River (with thanks to Joanne, SLC, wmmah, & Deborah760 for the wonderful video & audio).

Now get ye to The Clay Aiken News Network and watch the videos over there so you can get a visual of the history of clack, Jukebox Tour Edition - you'll be glad you did!

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, the clay aiken news network, jukebox tour, 50s medley, clack

Clay Aiken, Miami and That Blue Shirt

2009-07-23T09:35:00.000-07:00

So, I'm out on my morning Internet constitutional, visiting all my favorite Clay Aiken sites. My first stop is, of course, The Clay Aiken News Network. I open the page and BAM!!!! There's Clay in THAT blue shirt - you know the one, worn on the Independent Tour in Miami. It was the first, last and only time that Clay wore that ensemble.

I wonder why? Clay looked mighty fine in that blue shirt, edged in a little green (to match those eyes). Hummmmmm, it just may be a Question FOR Clay......

Here's a little bit more of Clay Aiken, THAT blue shirt and When Doves Cry (featuring several clips, including the Green shirt and that OTHER blue shirt)..

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, the clay aiken news network, when doves cry, miami, independent tour

Clay Aiken & The Moon

2009-07-21T11:46:00.000-07:00

Over at The Clay Aiken News Network, the question was asked - Clay Aiken, are you on the Moon?

Well, now that you mention it (guess you're just gonna have to click on the Lunar Module to see if Clay Aiken is on the Moon).....

THIS JUST IN!!!!!

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, the clay aiken news network,

Clay Aiken, Neil Sedaka & Solitaire

2009-07-18T09:20:00.000-07:00

The Clay Aiken News Network is showcasing Clay Aiken paying tribute to Neil Sedaka.

Clay Aiken singing Solitaire is one of those defining moments. When I first heard Clay sing this song on American Idol, you could tell that he connected with the lyrics. Much later, I learned why.

In Clay Aiken's book, Learning to Sing, he speaks honestly and poignantly about his birth father, Vernon Grissom. The following passage from this book always makes me sad, not just for Clay, but for the father who cast aside the love of his son for whatever reason.

My birth father showed me what happens once you shut down your heart. Still, I sing about him.

There was a man, a lonely man
Who lost his love through his indifference
A heart that cared, that went unshared
Until it died in his silence

I think about him

And Solitaire's the only game in town
And every road that takes him, takes him down
And by himself it's easy to pretend
He'll never love again

And always, I feel sorry for him

Another day
A lonely day
So much to say that goes unspoken
And through the night
His sleepless nights
His eyes are closed
His heart is broken

Clay also stated in his book

"When you come in contact with another life, that individual dabs a little color onto your soul. It isn't always a color you like, but even ugliness provides its own lessons"

Clay Aiken is a testament to taking those colors and creating a beautiful masterpiece. Bravo Clay

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, solitaire, neil sedaka, learning to sing, american idol, the clay aiken news network,

Clay Aiken on Ellen DeGeneres

2009-07-15T06:59:00.000-07:00

Over on The Clay Aiken News Network there is an article about and video of Clay Aiken being interviewed on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. But where's Invisible????

I have come to the conclusion that when it comes to Clay Aiken all roads lead me back to Invisible.

One day Clay, one day I WILL see you singing Invisible!!!

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, ellen degeneres, invisible, the clay aiken news network,

Clay Aiken Is Invisible

2009-07-14T17:18:00.000-07:00

Over on The Clay Aiken News Network the article for today is like a whirlwind dream, and all about Clay's appearance of July 14, 2004 on the CBS Summer Concert Series. Clay performed three songs that day, I Will Carry You, The Way and Invisible.

I have never seen Clay Aiken perform any of these songs live, not one. While I love both I Will Carry You and The Way, it is one of my secret goals in life to see Clay sing Invisible.

Watching the video of the CBS Summer Series, I started thinking of lasts and firsts. I know that usually people think in terms of first and lasts, but I was thinking about the last time we saw Clay singing Invisible - Jimmy Kimmel Live on September September 26, 2006, what an amazing performance that was - our Clay was all grown up!! Thinking of grown up Clay, my mind then went back to the first time we saw Invisible - the American Idol Tour, St. Paul, Minnesota, July 8, 2003.

I honestly could not decide which I liked better, so.......

Enjoy (recommended viewing - HQ)!!

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, the clay aiken news network, invisible, jimmy kimmel live, american idol,

Clay Aiken - Missing

2009-07-13T18:57:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken is missing and it's been tough to find something new to write about on a daily basis! So I was up early, perusing the Internet, and ran across this article on The Clay Aiken News Network

The part of the article about Dancing With the Stars and, in particular, the video of Randi & Evan dancing to Clay Aiken's Everything I Don't Need got me thinking. Where else would Clay's music fit?

Ice Skating?

How about a classic Movie Soundtrack?

Or even an Animated Classic?

What am I forgetting? Let me know, okay?

Well, I'm forgetting promos, news events and documentaries!! But you'll find them here All That Is Clay Aiken

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, the clay aiken news network, sacrificial love, casablanca, the real me, beauty and the beast, falling, figure skating

Clay Aiken and the Audience

2009-07-12T09:11:00.000-07:00

We are reliving some of the very best Clay Aiken moments. Remember Solo-Not a Tour? Remember the fan interaction with Clay Aiken? Some of Clay's best moments involve his fans - they love him and he absolutely loves them.

Who could forget Clay Aiken and Brianna?

Or when Clay's hunger got the better of him??

or how about Clay & Ethel?

Clay Aiken singing Solitaire (Just Because I LOVE it!!!)

want more Solo Tour? Check out The Clay Aiken News Network and All That Is Clay Aiken

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, solo not a tour, brianna, ethel, solitaire, the clay aiken news network,

Hugging Clay Aiken

2009-07-11T12:39:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken is one of those people who gives a hug like it SHOULD be given!! Clay hugs without hesitation, warm and with complete sincerity.

There's a poll at The Clay Aiken News Network - which is your favorite Clay hug? Do you have a write in vote?

Here's a video I put together that features a few of those Clay Aiken hugs (just a few).

Need more Clay Aiken? Check out the sidebar to the right for direct links to current Clay Aiken blogs, or....

Clay The Man

All That is Clay Aiken

Shy Eyewitness

gerra730

Carolina On My Mind

Something That Really Happened

Chexxxy's Pearls

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, the clay aiken news network, hugs, on the wings of love

Clay Aiken on the Cover of the Rolling Stone

2009-07-10T16:12:00.000-07:00

On July 10, 2003 Clay Aiken became the first American Idol contestant to grace the cover of Rolling Stone Magazine. Clay's cover went on to be one of the best selling issues of that year.

Started by Jann Wenner, the very first Rolling Stone was published on November 9, 1967 with John Lennon on the cover. The magazine has grown - gaining the reputation as an influential music, political and cultural power house.

Rolling Stone was one of Clay's most memorable photo shoots. The photographer, Matthew Rolston, seemed to bring out a side of Clay we had never seen before.

Matthew also went on to direct Clay Aiken's first music video, This Is The Night. This video was never released to any music channels but was later included on a special version of On My Way Here (Clay's newest CD released May of 2008) exclusively through QVC. While I agree that the video has nothing to do with the song, it is a feast for the eyes and the ears. Take a peek, do you agree?

Are you feeling the need to read more about Clay Aiken & Rolling Stone? How about visiting the following:

Clay Aiken News Network

All That Is Clay Aiken

and if you just feel the need to see more Clay, how about:

Clay The Man

All That is Clay Aiken

Shy Eyewitness

gerra730

Carolina On My Mind

Something That Really Happened

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, rolling stone magazine, the clay aiken news network, matthew rolston, this is the night video

Clay Aiken - He Is Looking Good!!

2009-07-09T13:09:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken is looking good!! While there is no doubt that Clay Aiken is a talented singer, actor and writer - Clay Aiken is also a man who at the very beginning said he wanted to make a difference, use his celebrity as a platform, and he has.

Building on his desire to make this world a better place for ALL children, Clay Aiken announced on November 15, 2004 his appointment as UNICEF Ambassador for Education for all Children. UNICEF approached Clay after hearing of his involvement with his own charity, the Bubel/Aiken foundation that helps young people with special needs.

Since 2004, Clay has traveled on behalf of UNICEF to five countries - bringing awareness to the plight of children on a global basis:

Indonesia:

Uganda

Afghanistan:

Mexico:

Somalia:

Do you feel the need to see more Clay Aiken? How about visiting the following:

Clay The Man

All That is Clay Aiken

Shy Eyewitness

gerra730

Carolina On My Mind

Something That Really Happened

Clay Aiken News Network
(while you're at the Clay Aiken News Network, check out the UNICEF Page for more information on Clay's ambassadorship and all that he does)

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, looking good, UNICEF, clay aiken news network,

Clay Aiken and All that Jazz

2009-06-19T10:35:00.000-07:00

It's been quite a week for Clay Aiken! Looking Geeky Sexy (A Guy Named Brian) in New York (Just Jared), negotiating book deals and preparing for his very first Father's Day!!!

I could recap all things Clay Aiken on this blog, but why? Here's links to four sites that are dedicated to All Things Clay:

Clay Aiken News Network

Clay Aiken - The Ideal Idol

Ashes - Clay Aiken The Man

Carolina On My Mind

oh, and I want to draw your attention to a particular article on Clay Aiken - The Ideal Idol - Father's Day - The First for Clay Aiken (have your Kleenex ready)

and just one more little item. A blend that I did honoring Clay and his gorgeous son, Parker Foster Aiken - he looks so much like his daddy!!!

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY CLAY!!!

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, parker foster aiken, book deal, ideal idol, clay aiken news network, father's day

Clay Aiken, Adam Lambert and Fan Wars

2009-06-05T15:29:00.000-07:00

There seems to be some very nasty people on the Internet who are trying to drum up a fan war between the fans of Clay Aiken and Adam Lambert. pfffffffftttt - been there, done that, got the t-shirt. One of the odd (and sometimes scary) byproducts of American Idol is fan devotion. I've never really seen anything like it. The fans tend to be, shall we say, a little emotional when it comes to their favorite.

The latest brouhaha surrounds a gossip item on MSNBC. This item was posted by someone who has a less than stellar reputation (rightfully earned) and has now grown beyond a more than likely untrue story to a conspiracy brewing - pitting one fan base against another.

I understand that sometimes it's very difficult to look at things logically when emotions are running high, but let's try anyway.

There is information on the Internet stating that the "Claymates" planted a story about Adam Lambert to make him look bad. This was supposedly confirmed by Television Without Pity (TWOP). Let's take it one step at a time.

Could this story have been planted by a fan Clay Aiken? Absolutely - it could have also been planted by a fan of Kelly Clarkson or a fan of Kris Allen or a fan of Chris Daughtry or even a fan of Gene Simmons. Is there a Claymate conspiracy to take Adam Lambert down? I can tell you unequivocally the answer is no. There is no conspiracy, there is no organized effort on the part of Clay Aiken's fans to harm Adam Lambert's reputation in any way shape or form.

Look at it this way, when Clay made his "colorful" comment about Ring of Fire, there were several Lambert fans who were posting in the comment section of numerous articles threatening to put a bullet through Clay's brain. Does this mean that there's a conspiracy by the Adam Lambert fans to do bodily harm to Clay Aiken? Absolutely not. It means that there's some wackos in this world.

According to the people spreading this load of sh...., um story, the individual has been traced by TWOP and they have confirmed that it came from their board and the person is a "Claymate". Really? Exactly how can TWOP track exactly what an individual is doing once they have left their site? Well they can't. Once an individual poster has left their site they can't "see" what they're doing - they can't see if they are commenting on something, they can't see if they're sending an e-mail, they can't see if they're talking on the phone, they can't see if they're sending someone a PM, they can't see where they are on the Internet. What they COULD see is where the person went once they left their site and ONLY if they left via a link that had been posted on the board (like a link to MSNBC) and then ONLY if they have tracking software.

Actually, if I were the owner of TWOP I would be none to happy to be brought into this. Not only are they being accused of spying on the people who post on their board, but they're also being accused of providing their poster's private Internet browsing history to third parties. And if any of this is true, I would be gone from TWOP in a heartbeat.

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, adam lambert, fan wars, msnbc, television without pity, TWOP, claymates,

Clay Aiken - More than a Pop Star

2009-06-04T12:44:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken is more than just your usual pop star. Clay has also been a proponent for children all around the world. His UNICEF visits have taken him to Indonesia, Uganda, Afghanistan, Mexico and Somalia - all to help raise awareness of the plight of children on a global basis.

What else has Clay done? He co-founded a wonderful organization, started out of love, and continues to grow. The Bubel/Aiken Foundation now helping kids in 20 different states.

Want to learn more about The Bubel/Aiken Foundation? Check it out at

The Clay Aiken News Network

and keep checking back for OFFICIAL news on the new Foundation name!

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, the bubel/aiken foundation, TBAF, UNICEF,

Clay Aiken - New Blog!

2009-05-22T19:39:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken blogged again on May 22, 2009. Since we know a) the "media" will pay no attention because it doesn't suit their own purposes or b) they will post it with their own spin, taking it apart so that the initial meaning is TOTALLY LOST!!! SO - here tis:

Wow! Such influence! ha ha
Who knew I had so much influence and that my words and opinion mattered so much to so many people!?!?! HA HA HA I'll be the first to admit that my opinion is just that, only my opinion, but for as much as some of the bloggers seem to dislike me and care so little about my thoughts, they sure can waste a lot of their space on what I say! If only many of them took the time to pay attention to important things like the US economy and the welfare of the world's children. But... nah... I could blog about that type of stuff anytime and most wouldn't think twice, but let me say something that they can pick and choose quotes and misinterpret me... and it's showtime! I never assumed my opinion mattered so much! I guess I may have been wrong.

That said, since my previous blog got dissected like a biology lab frog, i suppose I should clarify and even retract some of what I wrote.

I am sure that some were upset by my choice of words describing my opinion of a performance I heard from Adam Lambert. I hope no one actually believed that blood truly poured forth from my ears when I heard him. I obviously meant it as a colorful statement to imply that I did not enjoy what I heard. Any performer hopes that their music will appeal to all people, but no singer realistically expects it to. God knows, I am SURE there are PLENTY of people who can't stand to hear me sing either. I wouldn't dream of assuming that, and I am sure that far worse things have been said about my performances than I would even venture to type here. To me, that's fine. I don't expect unanimous, nor even majority support for my music. But, my guess is Adam doesn't either. I would not venture to make judgements on the personality or demeanor of anyone I don't know, so none of what I said in my previous blog was directed as a "slam" on Adam as a person. At the same time, I wouldn't dream of slamming him as an entertainer. He does what he does, because he enjoys it, and he obviously has many fans who enjoy it as well. If what i said in my previous blog regarding my impression of a single performance from Adam upset or offended any of his fans, I expect that the mature ones will realize that it was simply a poorly worded metaphor describing my personal tastes. The only person I would really dream of apologizing to is Adam. And the irony is, if he's smart he couldn't give a crap what I think of his Ring of Fire performance. As an entertainer, Adam knows that one person's opinion of one performance really matters a little less than zero, in the grand scheme of things. He could not have gotten on Idol (nor made it as far as he did) without an immense amount of talent. He surely doesn't need my approval to know he has a gift. At the same time, he realizes that amazing talent doesn't always equal universal appeal. (I could NEVER have the amount of skill and talent that ballet dancers have! that's talent! But, I don't particularly enjoy it!) I am sure that I will have plenty of opportunities in the coming years to hear Adam sing. I imagine he'll be around for years to come. But in the meantime, I definitely don't want to stoop to the level of so many negative freaks on the internet... so, I do apologize to Adam for my colorful (and negative) choice of words. I hope he can forgive me. I imagine he doesn't give a damn! :-) God knows he shouldn't. :-)

Now, for those of you who are able to comment on this.... lets take bets as to which bits and pieces of this blog will end up mass distributed. Be creative.... they don't seem to care about punctuation or whether or not they use all of the words in a sentence... so, have fun.... ;-)
____________________________________________________________
Thanks Clay, as always you always make me smile!

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, adam lambert, apology

Clay Aiken, American Idol & Reading Comprehension 101

2009-05-22T11:46:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken blogged on his Official Fan Club answering a question that one of the members asked. This blog was leaked by a less than honorable member of his board and is now all over the internet in various forms. There has been serious cutting and pasting by the "media" (and I use that term loosely) to fit their own agenda. So here it is and, since there seems that a lot of people have a real problem with reading comprehension, let's take it step by step.

QUESTION:

Clay -You said a while ago that you aren't a big fan of IDOL anymore....because it isn't about the unknown person next door kind of contest. Tonight, it is a dead heat between a seasoned performer, Adam Lambert, and the boy next door, Kris Allen. If Kris Allen wins IDOL this year, will your faith in the show have been restored??? Thanks!

ANSWER:

Now that it's all over, and for the record.... I couldn't be happier about the way AI ended this year. I only turn the show on once a season, and only to see what the set looks like each year. This year, I happened to turn it during the minute that Adam Lambert was singing "Ring of Fire" and, at that moment, thought my ears would bleed. Contrived, awful, and slightly frightening! I wasn't really a fan and found myself surprised whenever folks told me that they liked him. Granted, I never saw another performance (and many folks who I trust said that he was great) but I can't imagine I would have enjoyed it. Just not my cup of tea at all. To each his own.

My take: Clay is not a fan of Adam Lambert. Nowhere in this paragraph did he say that Adam Lambert is not talented, lots of people thought he was talented, Adam's just not his cup of tea at all, to each his own. Actually, he pretty much echoed exactly what Simon Cowell said about the performance ~ "I think what Randy was trying to say was what the hell was that? I mean, sorry, but I would never go to Nashville if I were you either, because I think there are a lot of people throwing their television sets out the window at this point, because I thought it was absolute, indulgent rubbish, if you want my honest opinion. I mean really, really horrific."

I never saw Kris sing on the show, but whether he was good or not is really relative. It's usually a matter of taste, right? But Idol is not always a matter of musical taste only. It's about the person you like. From what little I saw, Kris seemed likable. (That's not to say that Adam isn't just as likable as anyone.. maybe more so... I don't know) When Ruben and I were standing next to each other every night (many years ago) you had two equally talented, equally unlikely, equally unpolished contestants.... so it really was a matter of taste as to who was voted for. While some may argue that one of us was hyped more than the other, I don't feel that was the case. However, this year, there was an obvious bias. Not even having watched the show, I can tell you that I was WELL aware of the bias from the judges as to who should win. In my opinion, that is awfully unattractive. I don't think I am alone.

My take: American Idol is not about who is the most talented contestant, it's about who the viewing public likes. If this weren't the case there would be no back story and there would be no interviews. If this show was based solely on talent, there would be no need to get to "know" the contestants and their stories. They would stand up and sing, the judge's would critique, and the show would last 1/2 hour (or maybe just more commercials would be thrown in). During Season 2, Ruben & Clay were equals - the judge's did not favor one over the other (for the record, Clay & I disagree on this point). However, this season there was very blatant favoritism and bias shown by the judges toward one contestant.

In my opinion, it all often comes down to that last night of voting. Until the finale, folks are voting for the contestant that they want to see continue. But, I believe that on that last night, the dynamic changes. No longer forced to choose one person that they want to see win, the audience can effectively vote AGAINST the person that they don't want to see win. In the case of season two this might have happened. There may have been some folks who voted for myself or Ruben because they didn't like the other of us. I was the nerdy little girly boy who some didn't want to see win, so they may have voted for Ruben. I don't know. .. But again, I feel that Ruben and I were fairly matched. We both had our detractors and negatives, but I feel we were both very worthy of being on that stage in that moment, and either of us would have been worthy of winning. The show was different then, and folks made it in seasons 1-3 because they were "real" people who happened to sing/entertain well. But, somewhere along the way, AI stopped being about real people and started being about "fame" and "gloss"; It stopped being about the talented kid-next-door and started being about who was most marketable. (I don't think anyone would have argued in 2003 that Ruben or I were extremely marketable.) So, this year it was not like 2003. This year it all came down to two contestants so extremely different and mis-matched.... one that was so obviously the "favorite"... so hyped and polished and "ready for market"; who (accurately or inaccurately) came off to many as arrogant and superior ... and one kid who no one thought had a chance and (accurately or inaccurately) came off as humble and real.

My Take: On the night of the finale, the voting changes and, for some, it goes from who you want to stay to who you don't want to see win - a negative vote. This is what happened during Season 8. The public perception was that of a contestant who was very polished & seasoned, a professional and one who was the boy next door, the underdog - whether those perceptions were accurate or inaccurate doesn't matter, it's what the voting public saw.

In a battle between David and Goliath, my money is on David!

I think many voters got sick of being "told who to vote for". I think many were turned off by the blatant favoritism shown towards one contestant. Therefore, on that last night, they used their votes against a contestant that they were tired of hearing about and for the contestant who had been written off. And, at the same time, I think they voted AGAINST an American Idol that has, for four years now, been more about the slick productions and polished contestants than it has been about finding the raw talent that it did in its first three seasons.

My Take: People did not really vote against Adam Lambert as much as they voted against the American idol machine and their blatant attempt to manipulate the voting. It was a vote to get American Idol to take notice, that the viewing public is tired of the ringers and want the raw talent from the earlier years.

Those votes for Kris were also votes to return the show to its roots of finding "real" contestants with undiscovered talent and giving them the chance to grow and shine. They were votes that said "we're tired of seeing contestants who already seem to know it all".
Will American Idol choose to listen to the resounding and clarion call that those voters gave them?.... "Enough with the pretention. More Rubens, more Clays, more Fantasias and Tamyras and Kellys please." My faith has always been in the voters. I think they have gotten it right every year (mine included). It's now up to American Idol to decide if it will finally REALLY listen to the folks that keep it on the air.

My take: the American public was sending a message to American Idol to stop with the manipulation and go back to the roots - contestants who you get to see grow and change week after week, not contestants who have already arrived.

and as an aside - Rolling Stone? Clay Aiken HAS NOT taken down his blog - you need a new fact checker.

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, adam lambert, kris allen, american idol,

Clay Aiken & the Internet

2009-05-16T10:44:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken has had his fair share of rumor being reported as fact, and I’m sure that there are many many more people/celebrities out there too.

This past week, Clay's name has been bandied about the internet, attached to a story that gets more outrageous each time it's posted. It disgusts me to see the level that the "press" has stooped to.

But it's not just Clay, yesterday I read two very disturbing stories about the “media” and about the internet. The first was about a family fighting to have pictures taken off the web. The pictures were leaked by two California Highway Patrol officers and were of their daughter who had died tragically and horrifically in a car accident. Their hands are tied, but they are fighting. You can read more on this story here Newsweek.com - One Family's Fight

The second was about Brooke Shields. Her mother, who has Alzheimer’s, was taken from her assisted living home by two “reporters” from the National Enquirer who misrepresented themselves (in other words they lied) to get her off the premises in an attempt to get some juicy gossip. What the HELL is wrong with people to take advantage of a 75 year old woman. You can read more on this story here People.com - Brooke Shields

It is outrageous the level that our society has sunk to. I used to think that it was just a hand full of people who enjoyed this sensationalism, but now I’m afraid that it may be the majority - I find that very sad and very scary.

I try to do my part by not reading this kind of crap and staying away from any site that supports it. This gets more and more difficult as time goes on.

In my opinion, the only way to change it is to change the laws. This is not the media our founding fathers had in mind when they structured Freedom of the Press and Freedom of Information. Something absolutely must be done. I've contacted my Senators & Congressmen once already, but maybe I need to contact them again. It is getting out of control and is now affecting PRIVATE citizens - not just celebrities (who, believe it or not, are also private citizens)

I highly recommend you check out this timely article on The Clay Aiken News Network

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, the clay aiken news network, brooke shields, national enquirer, Nikki Catsouras

Clay Aiken, Jay Leno and Jack Black

2009-05-12T09:18:00.000-07:00

It's a day to reminisce. Clay Aiken looked and sounded fantastic at the David Foster & Friends event that occurred just this past Saturday, May 9th. You can see and feel the love & mutual respect that David Foster and Clay Aiken have for each other. Two extremely talented men.

Scarlett captured the moment. Clay Aiken performing "The Peter Cetera Medley".

another memory. Clay Aiken, Jay Leno, Jack Black!! Get the entire story on The Clay Aiken News Network - Click here The Clay Aiken News Network

Technorati Tags: clay aken, david foster and friends, jack black, jay leno, the clay aiken news network, the tonight show

Clay Aiken Chat!

2009-05-08T15:55:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken has come a long way since American Idol. While it was the catalyst, Clay is one of few contestants to go on to a great career without Idol's continued support and that big Idol push.

On Saturday, May 9, 2009, Clay Aiken will be joining David Foster, Philip Bailey, Brian McKnight, Peter Cincotti and Charice for David Foster & Friends at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. How about joining us?

Stop by the Clay Aiken News Network to wait for those Red reports, sharing stories, pictures and video - a great time will be had by all!

Click on the link, sign and up get ready to have a great time!!!
The Clay Aiken News Network

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, american idol, david foster and friends, the clay aiken news network,

Clay Aiken, David Foster & Friends

2009-05-01T09:02:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken will be joining David Foster & Friends in Las Vegas on Saturday May 9, 2009. This amazing evening of music will be held at The Mandalay Bay (Great venue!!! It seats around 12,000. This should be an awesome, energetic night!!)

David Foster and Friends

Date: May 9th, 2009

Price: $134.25, $81.75, $55.50

Back by popular demand, a concert celebration featuring music’s premier songwriter and producer David Foster will take place Saturday, May 9 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center. The event will pay tribute to the 15-time Grammy winner and will feature Clay Aiken, Philip Bailey from the chart-topping band Earth, Wind & Fire, Brian McKnight, Peter Cincotti and Oprah Winfrey’s protégé, Charice. Foster also will perform some of the hits he has written or produced during his 40-year musical career. The event is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m.

For more information about David Foster, his career and to watch a wonderful rendition of Unchained Melody, performed by Clay Aiken and David Foster, visit

The Clay Aiken News Network

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, david foster, david foster and friends, mandalay bay, clay aiken news network

Clay Aiken and a Night to Remember

2009-04-25T06:56:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken spent six hours online at the Clay Aiken Official Fan Club answering questions from his fans - Clay even answered one of my questions!!!

Clay said he was going to go out with a bang, and he sure did. Clay gave us the gift of music and, in true Clay Aiken fashion, requested we donate to The Bubel/Aiken Foundation in any amount that we can:

"We are gonna do this on the “honor system”… Go ahead…. download the song. It’s yours. Share it with your friends. It’s free. But… I want to make it count for someone… so let’s make it count for tens of thousands of children in the US with developmental disabilities If you can’t afford anything for it.. then don’t pay… but… if you can… I encourage you… I ask of you… that you make a donation to the Bubel/Aiken Foundation for how ever much you feel the song is worth. If you want to give $1… great. If you want to give $1000… GREAT… if you can only give $.05 … that’s fine too. It’s a tough time we’re living through nowadays, and non-profits are hurting more than ever as well. BAF (which will soon be known by a different name) has had amazing success in fulfilling it’s mission, and is embarking on a long term plan to continue including kids in every aspect of life. But, it will continue to need help from all of us in order to make that possible."

For more information, check out The Clay Aiken News Network by clicking the link below

The Clay Aiken News Network

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, the bubel/aiken foundation, TBAF, Just You, Clay Aiken Official Fan Club

Clay Aiken Receives Family Equality Council Award

2009-04-22T11:55:00.000-07:00

On April 21, 2009 Clay Aiken received the Family Equality Council Award in part for his ongoing dedication to bettering the lives of children on a global basis, but also, for becoming a gay father. In her introduction of Clay, Jennifer Chrisler, Executive Director of the Family Equality Council (FEC) said:

"And obviously the reason that we're honoring him tonight, not just for his talent or for his humanitarian work, in 2008 Clay Aiken, our honoree for this evening, became a father. And, after his decision to become a father and after Parker was born, he did what I think is the singularly most important thing that any lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender parent can do. He told the truth about who he was. He was honest about his life. And he showed his son that to live a life proud, truthful, committed to the things that you believe in, is the only way to live in the world."

Clay Aiken is a humble man and, during his acceptance speech, he gave the honor back by acknowledging those who have fought for family equality and for their years of dedication. Clay stated:

"I've only been doing it for 8-1/2 months, and so the hard work, and the most important work, has been done by many of the people in this room, who've been doing it for years. And many of the people outside of this room who have been doing it for years. So really the honor should go to everyone here who have done everything, and I'm just humbled to be a part of, a part of this group and to be a gay dad, and to be proud of that. To be proud of my son and to be able to raise him hopefully in an environment that is accepting, in a country and a society that is accepting, and that's being done thanks to the work of everyone who's involved in the Family Equality Council."

And finally, in true Clay Aiken fashion, he challenged us. He challenged us to use our voices to spread the word of equality:

"I'm just going to speak to these some of these very interesting ladies in the room right now on the outskirts. We were talking earlier this evening, before we came into the room about how, and I'm going to get political here for just a second, how in the 1960s and the earlier part of last century when the civil rights movement really was taking hold, there was a lot of activism not only on the part of African Americans but on the part of white Americans who were very active for integration and equality for African Americans in the Country.

I think it's just as important now and days when we have individuals who are straight and are being activists for gays and lesbians and transgender and bisexual people. But it's really a tough job for you because gays and lesbians and all us folk can say as much as we can, but it really is going to take a lot of effort on your part as well.

So to you who have come and have been so supportive of me, not only tonight but for years and years and years, I'm very honored that you're here tonight and I'm very appreciative and I hope that you'll go and spread this message to the people who you know in your communities who may not know about the work of Family Equality Council or the power and the love that's in every single family in the country."

Now for me this is one of the easier challenges. I have a family member who has been in a committed relationship for the past 15 years. She and her partner have raised a wonderful young woman who is bright, beautiful and loving.

That little girl is now married and she and her husband are planning on starting their own family - bringing another generation of people into this world who are accepting of all and who understand that through diversity we learn love, acceptance and understanding.

Bravo Clay and thank you. Thank you for always using that beautiful voice of yours not only to entertain, but to enlighten. You are, quite simply, the best.

To see clay's speech in its entirety, please visit:

Clay Aiken News Network

Technorati Tags: Clay Aiken, Family Equality Council, FEC, Family Equality Council Award, Night at the Tavern

Clay Aiken & Religion

2009-04-20T18:30:00.000-07:00

One cannot be a fan of Clay Aiken and not at least acknowledge that he is a Christian and a man of faith. While he does not wear his religion on his sleeve like so many, it is a big part of who he is.

Clay Aiken came into my life when, quite honestly, I was in the process of losing my religion (with thanks to REM). What I saw and what I heard coming from religious leaders, mostly on television, was so contrary to my own beliefs and how I was raised, I felt that I no longer belonged with those who called themselves Christians.

I believe in God, and I believe in Jesus. MY God is kind, tolerant, forgiving and loving. He is not vindictive and cruel. I do not believe that God would damn someone who has led a loving, caring, giving life - a life filled with tolerance and service - simply because of who they love (key word here is love, not hate).

As I was reading Clay's book Learning to Sing, it was with great trepidation that I began reading Chapter 18 entitled "Make a Joyful Noise". Was this where Clay and I were going to have our first falling out?

Imagine my HUGE sigh of relief when I read the following:

"To me, God is about love, not condemnation.

It's healthy to go to church, but you can still be a Christian if you don't.

You can believe in God and not pray daily.

You can read the Bible on your own.

Faith is not about a building or a lifestyle. You can minister in many ways besides attending services or being a preacher. And I think that that's what I feel most thankful for- that I have the opportunity to minister now, in my own way." ~Clay Aiken, Learning to Sing - Random House 2004

and with those simple words, Clay Aiken helped me see that there are Christians out there who feel as I do. I hope that we are the silent majority, but after some experiences the past several months, I am beginning to lose hope. I think I need Mr. Aiken to minister to me again, help me see that God is about love, not condemnation. When I am in doubt, I watch this. Welcome to our World, filmed in 2007, Merrillville, Indiana by Spotlight Lover and sung with such reverence and love by Clay Aiken:

and, if you are in need of more Good News, check out MJ's Big Idol Blog (click below):

Clay Aiken - Good News

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, religion, christian, Christianity, welcome to our world, good news, mj's big idol blog

Clay Aiken & Dr. Phil Take on Bullies

2009-04-19T14:39:00.000-07:00

On April 19, 2005 Clay Aiken joined Dr. Phil and his son to discuss the topic of bullying. In a powerful show, Clay & Dr. Phil brought to the forefront how devastating bullying can be. Although this show aired four years ago, the topic unfortunately remains a timely one.

For an excellent recap of the show and video of Clay talking to kids being tormented at school, I recommend reading and viewing at The Clay Aiken News Network.

Clay Aiken Meets Dr. Phil

Now for my editorial comment. I teach my children that bullying is never okay. Unfortunately, my job as a parent is made more difficult when making fun of people on television, the radio, movies and on the internet is acceptable behavior. I'm sure Clay Aiken thought that bullying was behind him once he left High School - little did he know that it had just begun and how vicious it could be. Clay is a great role model - he ignores the bullies, holds his head high and continues to live his life. I wish I could be half as strong as he is.

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, dr. phil, bullies, bullying

Clay Aiken - Dancing Like the Stars

2009-04-18T10:36:00.000-07:00

It's time of year!! Time for "Dancing Like the Stars", a fund raiser to benefit The Bubel/Aiken Foundation. The Bubel/Aiken Foundation was co-founded in 2003 by Clay Aiken and Diane Bubel. It's Mission? to bridge the gap that exists between young people with special needs and the world around them

For more information, and to view the videos, please check out The Clay Aiken News Network

Clay Aiken - Support TBAF

To learn more about The Bubel/Aiken Foundation or to offer your support, please visit here

Bubel/Aiken.org

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, diane bubel, the bubel/aiken foundation, dancing like the stars, wral, CANN, the clay aiken news network, TBAF

Clay Aiken, Tyra Banks & the GLAAD Awards

2009-03-30T19:45:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken presented the Excellence in Media Award to Tyra Banks at the 20th Annual GLAAD Media Awards ceremony.

Clay Aiken wrote his speech, prepared especially for his good friend Tyra. The following excerpt was particularly moving. Reading this, you can tell why Clay and Tyra are such good friends - they are of one heart.

Yes, her talk show gives air time to some of the issues that our community cares about most, like marriage equality, gay and lesbian people of faith, and transgender people, but Tyra doesn’t necessarily do these things just to make a statement. She doesn’t just address these issue for the impact. She includes, embraces and celebrates because that’s just how she is. Cause she knows it’s right. She doesn’t marginalize, she normalizes. She never sensationalizes or exploits, she just cherishes the value of every human being. Because the only thing bigger than her influence is her heart. Her deep respect for the value of all people has led her to make it part her mission to educate the mainstream public about the lives of gay and transgender people, reaching millions of young people nationwide with her message of inclusion and acceptance.

Video link of Clay Aiken and Tyra Banks at the GLAAD Awards:

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, Tyra Banks, 20th annual GLAAD media awards, excellence in media award

Clay Aiken - America's Next Top Model

2009-03-29T20:42:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken presented the Excellence in Media award to his good friend Tyra Banks at the 2009 GLAAD Media Awards held in New York City on March 28, 2009.

This isn't the last chance we get to see Clay and Tyra together. On April 8, 2009 Clay Aiken will make a guest appearance on America's Next Top Model - participating in both the acting challenge and on the judge's panel. What are Clay's qualifications? You be the judge

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, 2009 GLAAD awards, tyra banks, America's Next Top Model, ANTM

Clay Aiken - Through My Filters

2009-03-21T08:29:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken is an amazing man. Just how amazing? Check out this blog - Clay Aiken Through My Filters (Truth Rules is the blogger, Outback is the author)

Truth Rules Blog - Clay Aiken Through My Filters

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, Ashes, gay, truth rules, outback

Clay Aiken - A One Year Anniversary

2009-03-13T15:32:00.000-07:00

Today is the day that, one year ago, I was on stage with Clay Aiken and several other Knights (oh, This is the KNIGHT!!!). I am feeling the need to go back in time, to a kinder gentler time. Soooooo, I'm reliving MY KNIGHT!!!

March 12, 2008- on Chexxxy's place and notice a post under Spamalot Tickets for sale. Just out of curiosity, I click - and there it is:

for March 13, 2008 (the poor person who was selling it had the flu - which SUCKS!!!!)

I post, I PM and THEN I call my husband. Thank the lord, he said "I don't care, that is why we're going" I had to remind him we were REALLY going for our 24th wedding anniversary (if I say it often enough, it must be true - right?)

SOOOOOOO, I keep checking back and checking back - did I get the ticket???? I FINALLY had to go to bed - 4:00 AM wake up call for our 6:40 flight.

4:00 AM on March 13th. Go out to check the board at my mom and dad's house - the battery on their lap top had died - NOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!! Okay, don't panic, there's free wireless at the airport - you can make it that long.

FINALLY checked in, through security and sitting at a coffee shop. Take out the trusty iTouch and there it is - the PM. YES!!!!!! It appears to be MINE!!!! I went ahead and paid for the ticket (just in case) and waited some more for a PM (stupid on time flight - had to depart).

We land in Minneapolis and whip out the trusty iTouch again. Check my e-mail and YAY!!!! there it is!!!! The ticket for

BLAH BLAH BLAH - flight to NYC, two hour shuttle ride FROM HELL, get to hotel at 7:00 PM, check in, freshen up (well, as fresh as you can be after 9 plus hours of travel) and off to the theatre!!!!!

SPAMALOT is an amazing show - I have always been a Python fan (refer to previous post for my *ahem* life before Clay). Front row is amazing too - you can see the SPIT fly!!!!

For those who don't know, in Spamalot they are searching for The Grail (which just so happens to be on Broadway). They ask God for a clue and a large finger comes from the ceiling and points into the audience.

One of the characters (Patsy, he's the "horse") comes down and says it must be under your seat (A101 in this case), so you have to stand up and BAM there's the grail!!!!

Then you get to sit back down (this part is hard on the knees) and then CLAY says that they should reward the humble peasant (ahhhhhhh) and the actor comes back down and helps you up on stage (which is a good thing, because my knees were shaking - like a lot!!!!)

The king thanks you and asks your name. I told him Sue and he asked my LAST name. I just kind of laughed. He asked again, so I told him - he said "stop kidding, what's your last name"!!!! He did a very good job pronouncing it. THEN they give you the Arthur Award for the Best Peasant in New York - like the academy awards, with an envelope and all.

You get a foot of god statue (it says The Arthur Award, Best Peasant, Monty Python's Spamalot) and you shake hands with everyone.

Clay reached out and when I reached out, he took his hand away. Then he reached out again, and I took MY hand away - we did connect (and his glove was sooooooo SOFT!!!!!). Then he kneels right down in front of you and the cast sings a thank you song. At one point they all look right at you and blast out the words and you can FEEL their breath on you!!! (as a matter of fact, when they were singing to the Peasant on Saturday, you could see her hair move).

IT WAS AMAZING!!!!!

Last time I posted this blog, I included my peasant picture *yawn*. This time I'm including a redone Find Your Grail video (stupid youtube took the original one down). This is the only place this can be seen - hope you all enjoy!!

oh, and one funny story. The next day we went to the Empire State Building. A man in line looked at me and said "you're our peasant from Spamalot last night!!!" He introduced me to the rest of his group, said he had a wonderful time that the cast was spectacular and how impressed he was with a certain Mr. Clay Aiken.

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, clay aiken spamalot peasant on stage with clay aiken find your grail

Clay Aiken Wildcard

2009-03-04T18:24:00.000-08:00

So, American Idol is bringing back the wildcard competition - a little different, but a second chance for the best of the rest. Clay Aiken is the epitome of the Best - period.

Just to be honest here, I am not watching American Idol this year. Actually, I have not watched American Idol since the Top 4 of Season 5. I have my reasons (and those are better stated at another time).

It is my understanding that a contestant this year, Von Smith, is being compared to Clay. Curious, off to youtube I went!!! On the surface, I see can understand the comparison. Going deeper, I just don't see it.

What do you think?

CLAY:

VON:

Comments welcome - keep it clean and civil. I will delete anything that I feel is an inappropriate comment about either of these talented men.

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, von smith, american idol, wildcard, wild card

Clay Aiken Leaves RCA

2009-02-20T18:17:00.001-08:00

It's CONFIRMED! Clay Aiken's representative, Cindi Berger, confirmed today in a People Magazine exclusive that Clay has LEFT RCA!!! OH HAPPY DAY!!!!

People Magazine Article

This Claymate (and I actually don't use that term often, don't like it too much) is doing ONE HELL OF A HAPPY DANCE!!!! WHERE'S THE CHAMPAGNE??!!??

WAIT I need MUSIC!!!! This song is PERFECT for the occasion!!!

I'll start living life with no regrets
'Cause the best hasn't happened yet
I'm just fine with you out of my life

so raise a glass and ENJOY!!

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, rca records, People Magazine, cindi berger, claymates

Clay Aiken and ONE

2009-01-22T19:31:00.001-08:00

Clay Aiken, UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, recently blogged in support of ONE - an organization dedicated to tackling poverty and saving the lives of children around the world.

"I’ve had a chance to see many wonderful children, full of laughter and hope, in even the poorest places around the world. And I’ve seen the incredible work of UNICEF to help those children and their families survive and thrive. But I have also seen children sick and dying from lack of basic nutrition and medicines. And I cannot forget that despite UNICEF’s work, 25,000 children die every day, mostly from preventable causes. I believe that number should be “zero”– no child dying unnecessarily." ~Clay Aiken

Clay is asking President Barack Obama to launch a Presidential Initiative to Accelerate Child Survival and he's asking us to join in, by signing a petition to the President. Click on the link to read the entire blog and sign the petition! We CAN make a difference!

ONE - Believe in Zero - Clay Aiken Blog

and while you're at it, turn around and see what Love's Done for me

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, ONE, UNICEF, I Believe in Zero, barack obama, Ashes

I KNOW this is a CLAY AIKEN Blog

2009-01-19T08:24:00.001-08:00

BUT - It's Martin Luther King Junior Day today. It's also the eve of an amazing time in our country's history. AND I don't think Clay Aiken would mind reminding everyone to Have a DREAM!!

I know it's long, but you really should read it - every last bit of it (but if you don't have the patience, scroll to the video for the condensed version). Our country has come so far, but we still have a ways still to go. There are still people in our country who do not have the "inalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness"

We cannot forget the past and we must be mindful of the future - but most importantly, we must live TODAY to its fullest potential!

I Have a Dream Speech
I am happy to join with you today in what will go down in history as the greatest demonstration for freedom in the history of our nation.

Five score years ago, a great American, in whose symbolic shadow we stand today, signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This momentous decree came as a great beacon light of hope to millions of Negro slaves who had been seared in the flames of withering injustice. It came as a joyous daybreak to end the long night of their captivity.

But one hundred years later, the Negro still is not free. One hundred years later, the life of the Negro is still sadly crippled by the manacles of segregation and the chains of discrimination. One hundred years later, the Negro lives on a lonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity. One hundred years later, the Negro is still languishing in the corners of American society and finds himself an exile in his own land. So we have come here today to dramatize a shameful condition.
In a sense we have come to our nation's capital to cash a check. When the architects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to which every American was to fall heir. This note was a promise that all men, yes, black men as well as white men, would be guaranteed the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note insofar as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check, a check which has come back marked "insufficient funds." But we refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt. We refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of opportunity of this nation. So we have come to cash this check — a check that will give us upon demand the riches of freedom and the security of justice. We have also come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of now. This is no time to engage in the luxury of cooling off or to take the tranquilizing drug of gradualism. Now is the time to make real the promises of democracy. Now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice. Now is the time to lift our nation from the quick sands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood. Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God's children.

It would be fatal for the nation to overlook the urgency of the moment. This sweltering summer of the Negro's legitimate discontent will not pass until there is an invigorating autumn of freedom and equality. Nineteen sixty-three is not an end, but a beginning. Those who hope that the Negro needed to blow off steam and will now be content will have a rude awakening if the nation returns to business as usual. There will be neither rest nor tranquility in America until the Negro is granted his citizenship rights. The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges.

But there is something that I must say to my people who stand on the warm threshold which leads into the palace of justice. In the process of gaining our rightful place we must not be guilty of wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred.

We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline. We must not allow our creative protest to degenerate into physical violence. Again and again we must rise to the majestic heights of meeting physical force with soul force. The marvelous new militancy which has engulfed the Negro community must not lead us to a distrust of all white people, for many of our white brothers, as evidenced by their presence here today, have come to realize that their destiny is tied up with our destiny. They have come to realize that their freedom is inextricably bound to our freedom. We cannot walk alone.

As we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead. We cannot turn back. There are those who are asking the devotees of civil rights, "When will you be satisfied?" We can never be satisfied as long as the Negro is the victim of the unspeakable horrors of police brutality. We can never be satisfied, as long as our bodies, heavy with the fatigue of travel, cannot gain lodging in the motels of the highways and the hotels of the cities. We cannot be satisfied as long as the Negro's basic mobility is from a smaller ghetto to a larger one. We can never be satisfied as long as our children are stripped of their selfhood and robbed of their dignity by signs stating "For Whites Only". We cannot be satisfied as long as a Negro in Mississippi cannot vote and a Negro in New York believes he has nothing for which to vote. No, no, we are not satisfied, and we will not be satisfied until justice rolls down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream.

I am not unmindful that some of you have come here out of great trials and tribulations. Some of you have come fresh from narrow jail cells. Some of you have come from areas where your quest for freedom left you battered by the storms of persecution and staggered by the winds of police brutality. You have been the veterans of creative suffering. Continue to work with the faith that unearned suffering is redemptive.

Go back to Mississippi, go back to Alabama, go back to South Carolina, go back to Georgia, go back to Louisiana, go back to the slums and ghettos of our northern cities, knowing that somehow this situation can and will be changed. Let us not wallow in the valley of despair.

I say to you today, my friends, so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.

I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal."

I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood.

I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a state sweltering with the heat of injustice, sweltering with the heat of oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice.

I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.

I have a dream today.

I have a dream that one day, down in Alabama, with its vicious racists, with its governor having his lips dripping with the words of interposition and nullification; one day right there in Alabama, little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers.

I have a dream today.

I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight, and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together.

This is our hope. This is the faith that I go back to the South with. With this faith we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day.

This will be the day when all of God's children will be able to sing with a new meaning, "My country, 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing. Land where my fathers died, land of the pilgrim's pride, from every mountainside, let freedom ring."

And if America is to be a great nation this must become true. So let freedom ring from the prodigious hilltops of New Hampshire. Let freedom ring from the mighty mountains of New York. Let freedom ring from the heightening Alleghenies of Pennsylvania!

Let freedom ring from the snowcapped Rockies of Colorado!

Let freedom ring from the curvaceous slopes of California!

But not only that; let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia!

Let freedom ring from Lookout Mountain of Tennessee!

Let freedom ring from every hill and molehill of Mississippi. From every mountainside, let freedom ring.

And when this happens, when we allow freedom to ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual, "Free at last! free at last! thank God Almighty, we are free at last!"

ON OUR WAY HERE

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, martin luther king junior, MLK, barack obama, i have a dream speech full text

I Believe in Zero - 12 Days of UNICEF

2008-12-20T10:37:00.000-08:00

So what does this blog have to do with Clay Aiken? Everything. It encompasses his heart and the pledge he made many years ago to use his new found celebrity to educate and bring some good into this world. He has succeeded ten fold - whether as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, The Bubel/Aiken Foundation or Broadway Cares. We have been blessed with his beautiful voice - not just singing, but bringing to light the needs of children both near and far.

25,000 Children die every day of preventable causes. 25,000 Children Every Day - those words have been echoing through my mind for several days. It boggles the mind - 25,000 Children from preventable causes. For example, Mosquito-borne malaria is the biggest single killer of children in Africa, where a child dies from malaria every 30 seconds. A simple mosquito net can decrease infection rates by 50 percent.

YOU can help (yes YOU!!) for $17.79 YOU can provide three mosquito nets treated with long-lasting insect repellent to protect children from mosquitoes and other biting insects. The simple provision of mosquito nets, together with UNICEF awareness campaigns, can really save lives and so can you!

As tight as things are for me right now, I am so thankful for everything that I am blessed to have - a roof over my head, health, my children growing, going to school, safe from war, disease and unimaginable poverty.

So now down to the nitty gritty. UNICEF has a new campaign, which began yesterday - 12 Days of UNICEF

"12 Days of UNICEF," a blogging campaign to encourage Americans to give back this holiday season with Inspired Gifts. Beginning December 19 and running through December 31, UNICEF celebrity Ambassadors and Supporters, including Lucy Liu and Clay Aiken, will post daily blogs on the UNICEF website about Inspired Gifts and their impact on children around the world.

To check out the field notes, go to:

UNICEF Field Notes

Need to know more? Here's the FAQs (and nothing but the FAQs)!!!!

UNICEF Inspired Gifts FAQ

Now no excuses, here's the link to

Start Shopping!!!!

Technorati Tags: aiken clay, clay aiken, UNICEF, 12 days of UNICEF, I Believe in Zero

Clay Aiken Holiday Card

2008-12-09T12:55:00.001-08:00

Clay Aiken wishes you Merry Christmas with Love!

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, merry christmas with love, holiday greetings, aiken clay,

Clay Aiken - What an Amazingly Wonderful Guy!

2008-12-08T18:09:00.000-08:00

Clay Aiken returned to the scene of his triumphant Broadway debut in the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, Monty Python's SPAMALOT on September 19th. Clay's debut on Broadway earlier this year was met with wild enthusiasm from both his legion of fans and the New York press. After the performance on Friday December 5th the Broadway actor and music superstar made one lucky fans birthday something special by stopping by and signing her program and wishing her a very happy birthday. Broadwayworld's camera was there to join in on all the b-day fun!

Read the entire article here:

Broadwayworld

But here's a sneak preview of a very happy Clay Aiken

Technorati Tags: clay aken, spamalot, fan birthday, stage door, aiken, clay,

Clay Aiken Champions Change

2008-11-02T06:07:00.000-08:00

Clay Aiken is a man with a heart as big as his voice. Clay is an advocate for children on a global basis. As a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, he has traveled the world in order to educate us on the plight of children on a global basis.

Closer to home, on October , 18 2008 The Bubel/Aiken Foundation (co-founded by Clay & Diane Bubel) hosted their 2008 Champions of Change gala.

The 2008 Recipients were CVS Caremark, Corporate Champion of Change; Dan Habib and Betsy McNamara, Champions of Change; and Rich Donovan, Champion of Change. Follows is a brief description of this year's recipients as posted on the Bubel/Aiken Foundation website

CVS Caremark Charitable Trust was honored as a Corporate Champion of Change for their outstanding efforts to improve the lives of children with disabilities. The five-year, $25 million CVS Caremark All Kids Can program supports nonprofit organizations helping children with disabilities in school, in recreation and in developing skills for successful lives, all within an inclusive environment.

Champions of Change Dan Habib and Betsy McNamara turned their personal goal of educational and social inclusion for their son Samuel into a universal goal of ensuring that all children have the tools to reach their full potential. The result is the film Including Samuel, which tells their son’s story of inclusion, along with the trials and triumphs of four other subjects. Dan is an award-winning photojournalist, director and producer of documentary films. Betsy is a fundraising consultant and an inclusion advocate who is the mother of Samuel, who has cerebral palsy, and Isaiah, who is typically developing.

Rich Donovan was recognized as a Champion of Change for applying his world-class business acumen to creating means of empowerment for people with disabilities. He was a key to Merrill Lynch’s diversity strategy. As CEO of Integrated Process Solutions, Rich provides large corporations and governments with ready-for-action profit opportunities as a “return on disability”. Rich, who happens to have cerebral palsy, is Board Chairman of Lime Connect, showing real-life solutions - and real financial advantages - to hiring, working with, and providing products and services for people with disabilities. In serving children, he is an advocate of education as essential to the future economic and social success of individuals with disabilities.

The gala included dinner, both a live and silent auction and a special performance by Clay Aiken.

The Bubel/Aiken Foundation was founded on July 28, 2003, based on the shared vision between Clay and co-founder Diane Bubel of a world where special needs children could be fully immersed in society.

Here's a video of some of the highlights of an amazing night.

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, the bubel/aiken foundation, 2008 champions of change, aiken, clay

An Affair to Remember - With Clay Aiken No Less!

2008-10-12T06:53:00.001-07:00

We're coming up quickly to Clay Aiken's 2008 Champions of Change Gala. Well, maybe not CLAY'S Gala, but The Bubel/Aiken Foundation's Gala!

This years honorees are a diverse group but they have one thing in common - an inclusive world, where special needs children interact and learn from typically developing children (or maybe it's the typically developing children interact and learn from special needs children). To read more about this year's honorees visit The Bubel/Aiken website at TBAF News

This should be an amazing evening - including auctions and entertainment! For a list of auction items, visit The Bubel/Aiken website at TBAF Gala Auction (sniff, I want that Carolina Hurricanes Jersey - like LOTS!!!)

Finally, here's a clip preview from "Including Samuel" - a documentary film by Champions of Change honorees Dan Habib and Betsy McNamara.

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, the bubel/aiken foundation, champions of change gala, including samuel, TBAF

The Journey to Clay Aiken

2008-09-30T17:22:00.000-07:00

Now seems like the best time to discuss, in detail, my journey to Clay Aiken.

The journey begins during American Idol Season 2. This remains the ONLY season that I watched from the very first show to the very last. The reason I watched? Clay Aiken. Actually, Clay Aiken and Ruben Studdard. I was enthralled with this duo - who'd have thunk that America would embrace the larger than life Velvet Teddy Bear and the skinny teacher from North Carolina with the voice of an angel!

When I first saw Clay Aiken, I saw a young man, in need of a SERIOUS make over, but who could sing like no other. I didn't see straight or gay - I just saw Clay.

As American Idol progressed, I fell in love. I would never have imagined it - it had never happened before and it has not happened since. I fell in love with the voice. I fell in love with the smile. I fell in love with the sparkle in his eye. I fell in love with his presence. I didn't fall in love with straight or gay - I fell in love with Clay.

During the finale, I held my breath with the rest of America. I kind of had the outcome figured out, knew it would be Ruben, but I wanted Clay to win the whole thing. I watched as Ryan Seacrest opened that envelope. I watched Clay watching Ruben. I heard the words "Ruben Studdard" and I saw Clay gracefully step back and let Ruben shine. At that moment, I didn't see straight or gay - I saw just Clay, a man who was genuinely proud of and thrilled for his friend.

And then I watched. I watched as many interviews and appearances as I possibly could. I watched Clay on Oprah, on The Today Show, on The Early Show, on Ellen, on Jimmy Kimmel Live, on The Tonight Show. I watched him become more comfortable with himself, more confident. Clay is always the best guest on any show - he is funny, charming, caring, humble. Through it all was always that voice, the voice that drew me in from the beginning. I never saw straight or gay - I just saw Clay, growing and becoming the amazing entertainer that he is today.

Then I learned. I learned more about UNICEF. I learned more about Autism. I learned more about inclusion. I learned that, while I'm just one person, I can make a difference. I volunteered for Special Olympics. I volunteered at the Food Bank. I walked during the Race for the Cure. I grew to be a more altruistic human being. Clay brought this to me by being an activist for people whose voices are not heard. I never saw straight or gay - I just saw Clay, a man with an amazing heart, who uses his celebrity to bring some good into this world.

Then I witnessed. My first Clay Aiken concert was the 2006 Christmas tour. I was blessed to be in attendance at the Merrillville concert (yay me!!!!). What I witnessed was awe inspiring. Clay is so at home on the stage and he wraps his amazing voice and personality around each and every person that room. I have never seen an entertainer more in tune with the audience, interact and feed off them. Each concert is different, because Clay pays as close attention to the crowd as they do to him. The 2007 Summer tour is another high point. I went to five - yes FIVE concerts! Each and every one was different. There is nothing in this world like a Clay Aiken concert - nothing. I never saw straight or gay - I just saw Clay, singing, "dancing", chatting, laughing, joking and walking miles of bus lines.

I also saw the dark side. I became an Internet fan after the AI5 finale. I have met some amazing people on the Internet, but I have also seen some of the most vile hatred I have ever experienced. I watched a good man being hounded, harassed, abused, ridiculed and bullied. It was relentless and mind numbing. I cannot imagine having to put up with it, but Clay did with amazing grace and dignity. While the "press" screamed GAY GAY GAY - I never saw it - I just saw Clay and my heart bled for what this gentle man had to endure.

Now we come full circle. I read the People Magazine article and watched the Good Morning America interview. I saw an extremely courageous man make a difficult decision for the sake of his child. I felt for an entire family, people I don't even know, when Clay decided it was time to open up about the most private part of his life. I saw and heard the words "I'm gay" but you know what? I just saw Clay - the same man I fell in love with on American Idol, the same man I've listened to, learned from and enjoyed for over five years. I still don't see straight or gay - I just see Clay.

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, GMA, People Magazine, american idol, aiken, Clay

All Hail Sir Robin as Clay Aiken Returns to Spamalot

2008-09-22T19:56:00.000-07:00

Broadway.com has a wonderful article about Clay Aiken's return to Spamalot!!

Clay started in Spamalot Redeux on September 19th and runs through January 4th.

Clay Aiken has again brought the magic back to Broadway!!!

All Hail Sir Robin Broadway.com

If you were taking a cab across 44th Street on September 19, chances are it wasn't cheap. With Daniel Radcliffe appearing down the block in previews for Equus, the sidewalks got even more crowded with fans and onlookers, thanks to Clay Aiken's splashy return to Spamalot. After leaving the show in April (and becoming a father last month), the pop phenom reassumed the role of Sir Robin and brought down the house with his seemingly effortless performance and an ace rendition of "You Won't Succeed on Broadway." Aiken's signed on through January 4, so if you missed him the first time, here's your chance to be impressed. And trust us, the guy's pretty darn amazing.
Photos by Jenny Anderson/Broadway.com

Pictures of Clay Aiken's triumphant return!!

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, spamalot, broadway.com, aiken, clay

Clay Aiken and Spamalot ROUND TWO!!!

2008-09-16T19:34:00.001-07:00

Clay Aiken will yet again be gracing the Great White Way for a second run in Spamalot! Clay as Sir Robin (and various other roles) is an absolutely must see! I traveled almost 3,000 miles to see Clay in his first run and would LOVE to get back again! I'm not holding my breath, but if I actually win the Write Clay Aiken's Playbill Biography contest, I'll figure out a way to GET THERE!!

Spamalot is just proof positive that Clay is an extremely diverse and multi-talented singer, actor, comedian and just all around performer. Entertainers with his versatility do not come along often and I expect we will be seeing Clay expand his resume in the coming years.

Clay could easily star in a feature length film. I would LOVE to see him play a villain. I know that he could reach down and pull up those emotions (heck, maybe Clay will just think about all the people who have lied about him over the years - it would make for an Academy Award winning performance).

Clay has always said that he wanted to have his own talk show. Clay has a way about him, a natural ease (this comes from being who he is - you get what you see, period end of story). He is funny, warm, charming and would make an amazing talk show host!

How about a starring role on a TV Sitcom? Clay certainly entertained us during his 2007 Summer Tour with a TV Medley to end them all (I've seen one other TV Medley and it pales in comparison to Clay's).

He could also be an advocate for the rights of others. Clay has always stood up for those who have no voice - especially children. The man has the most amazing heart. Whether it's in his own backyard in Raleigh or traveling to Somalia, Clay is a celebrity who uses his time in front of the cameras to educate and help

Whatever Clay Aiken chooses to do, he will continue to carry himself with grace and dignity. I Heart Him and am so excited to be a part of this amazing journey!

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, somalia, spmalot, TV Medley, UNICEF, talk show host, aiken, clay

Clay Aiken & The Classics

2008-09-11T12:59:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken and classic movies. They're like peanut butter and jelly, coffee and cream or a cup of cocoa on a cold winter's night. Clay's voice is timeless. Clay's music is timeless. Clay Aiken, Casablanca, Sacrificial Love - timeless

Sit back and let the soothing sound of Clay's voice wash over you. Grab that special someone and hold them close. Dim the lights. Light some candles. Like Bogart and Bergman, Clay's music will never go out of style.

Clay Aiken, UNICEF and Malaria Prevention

2008-09-09T19:42:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken and UNICEF team up once again to remind of us the importance of treated mosquito netting could be the difference between life and death in Malaria infected areas.

For instance, did you know ~

A child dies of malaria every 30 seconds in Africa. At least one million infants and children under five in sub-Saharan Africa die each year from the mosquito-borne disease. While it is one of the greatest threats to human and economic welfare on earth, malaria is both preventable and treatable if addressed properly and quickly.

For more information, click on the video below featuring UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Clay Aiken discussing the benefit of this treated netting and how important it is in saving the lives of children on a global basis:

Please help Clay and UNICEF save a life today. Click on the links below for more information or to offer a donation. Every gift, no matter how small, helps.

Learn More about Malaria Prevention

Donate Now

You've heard Clay's words, now listen to the one-of-a-kind voice of Clay Aiken. An amazing song off his CD On My Way Here. Pictures/videos of Somalia and inspired by Clay's latest UNICEF trip.

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, UNICEF, malaria, clay aiken discusses misquito netting, africa

You're Never Alone at a Clay Aiken Concert

2008-09-08T19:25:00.000-07:00

One of the many lessons I have learned on my journey to Clay is that you are NEVER alone at Clay Aiken concert! I am relatively new to the internet fan base (was on the boards during and right after AI2, but that's another story) and had I known this fact, I would not be playing Clay concert catch up.

Clay Aiken fans are amazing - they are friendly and outgoing. They'll talk to you, sit with you, and share with you. They'll offer you rides and tickets to the next venue.

The first concert I went to was the 2006 Joyful not a Tour. I was lucky enough to be at the Merrillville concert with Clay fans from all over the country. My particular group included fans from Oregon, California and Illinois. Clay absolutely took my breath away. Not only was his voice amazing (I sat there with my mouth hanging open - the difference live versus recorded is something to behold) but he was SO FUNNY!! It was, without a doubt, the most enjoyable concert I had ever been to (and I'm not a big fan of Christmas music, so this is saying A LOT).

Other than THE NOTE, one of my favorite memories of this concert were all the fans sitting in the lobby after the show - uploading pictures and videos. Touching base with friends all over the internet (and all over the world). This was probably the concert that coined the phrase "he nailed it!" People were laughing, hugging and catching up. It a wonderful sight to behold and served to solidify my love of all things Clay. Any man who can generate that much excitement, who can attract so many caring individuals in one spot is someone very special.

Seven concerts and four Spamalots later, Clay is still taking my breath away and the people I have met through him continue to be the some of the most awesome individuals I have ever met. I feel so blessed to have so many wonderful friends - some as close as the other side of town and others as far away as England and Australia. While I may never get the opportunity meet them all face-to-face, I consider them my family.

I have no video (youtube is under construction) but how about checking out these blogs?

Clay Aiken Ruminations

All That is Clay Aiken

Marhaven Musings

Clay - the Man

Carolina On My Mind

(hey, look over to the right for some additional blogs - all worth the click - check them out!)

actually, we'll try this anyway - newest montage - Sacrificial Love - Casablanca - Clay Aiken *sigh*

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, concerts, merrillville, clay aiken fans, clay aiken blogs

Clay Aiken & Everything I Needed to Know

2008-09-04T18:26:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken has taught me quite a bit in the past five years. Some of these lessons I knew, but Clay reinforced the ideals.

Clay Aiken is a different kind of celebrity - he cares. He defined his path early on in life and has not deviated from his goal. That goal? To lead a life of service.

Clay has proven in his actions that he is here to make a difference, to affect the lives of others in a positive way. Whether it's through his affiliation with UNICEF (UNICEF site) or his own foundation, The Bubel/Aiken Foundation (TBAF Site), he is making a difference.

One of the ways that Clay makes a difference is through education. Prior to American Idol, Clay's path was to become a special education teacher. In his book Learning to Sing, Clay points out that

"I was planning to teach in the classroom. I am still teaching. My classroom has just gotten a lot bigger."

This was true in 2005 and remains true to this day.

I have learned a lot from Clay Aiken, more than this blog can handle. I have learned about love and I have learned about hatred. I have learned that "family" comes in many shapes and forms. Clay puts this best when he writes of the couple who took he and his mother in after they left his biological father ~

"What I learned from Nanny and Pop, and their children, and all the folks who came to our aid in those difficult times, is that family is what you make of it. Family is about love."

Through Clay, I have found an amazing family on the Internet. These people come from all walks of life, every age, race, religion and political affiliation. What we have in common is Clay and through Clay, and what he has taught each of us, we are also making a difference. We have embraced his causes. We have given, volunteered, learned more and become active participants in this world. It feels good. It feels right.

With that, here's a little video about Everything that I Needed to Know I Learned from Clay Aiken. Hope you enjoy

technorati tags: clay aiken, education, the bubel/aiken foundation, UNICEF, life lessons, family, aiken clay

My Newest Clay Aiken Creation

2008-09-02T18:26:00.001-07:00

Everything I needed to know in life I learned from Clay Aiken. Seriously, it's true!!! While most of these are life lessons that I have always known about, Clay has driven those points home with his amazing talent and heart.

These lessons include - never judge a book by its cover, speak softly and carry a big stick, and many more.

I was so inspired I put these lessons into a video, in the hope that I could help others see the life lessons that Clay strives to teach us in his words and deeds.

gosh (tm King Arthur).

Is my face red. I haven't quite finished it!!!

STAY TUNED!!!! This blog to be updated when done. In the meantime, here's an oldie but a goodie.

Kick back, enjoy - talk amongst yourselves. What have you learned from Clay?

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, life lessons, everything i needed to know i learned from clay aiken, aiken, clay

Clay Aiken - The Real Me

2008-08-31T12:55:00.000-07:00

Clay Aiken's new CD, On My Way Here, includes the song written by Dove Award winner Natalie Grant - The Real Me.

The lyrics read like a poem, and the song is poetically interpreted by Clay:

Foolish heart looks like we're here again
Same old game of plastic smile
Don't let anybody in
Hiding my heartache, will this glass house break
How much will they take before I'm empty
Do I let it show, does anybody know?

But you see the real me
Hiding in my skin, broken from within
Reveal me completely
I'm loosening my grasp
No need to hold back my frailty
Oh, cause you see the real me
Painted on, life is behind a mask
Self-inflicted circus clown
I'm tired of the song and dance
Living a charade, always on parade
What a mess I've made of my existence
But you love me even now
And still I see somehow
That you see the real me
Hiding in my skin, broken from within
Reveal me completely
I'm loosening my grasp
There's no need to hold back my frailty
Oh, cause you see the real me

Shadows of shattered dreams
They follow me
They've haunted me
But you've taken the broken pieces of my life
and helped me to believe.

Cause you see the real me
Hiding in my skin, broken from within
Reveal me completely
I'm loosening my grasp
There's no need to hold back my frailty
Oh, cause you see the real me

Clay has challenged us to listen to the songs on On My Way Here and interpret them as they apply to our life experiences.

For me, The Real Me speaks to the soul of a person - the REAL person - not the outer wrapping. Clay has said that this song is about God for him, and I can absolutely hear that.

But, for me, this song epitomizes the real Clay - someone who truly does not judge others on the outer wrappings but sees the inner beauty.

In his 2005 book, Learning to Sing, Clay wrote about a Meet & Greet that he was attending in Atlanta. During this Meet & Greet, a woman approached him and she was sobbing. Clay did what Clay does best - tried to help her laugh a little, to feel better. This woman went on to tell him about how his video to Invisible changed her life....

"and then she said "I used to weigh two hundred and fifty pounds. And I hated myself for so long. And it meant so much to me to see that you had an overweight girl in your video."

I had to think about it, because I didn't remember any overweight girls in the video. She told me she meant the girl who climbed onstage as I sang to her.

Then I remembered the girl. I remembered her because she was from New Jersey and was visiting L.A. for her birthday. She came to California because she heard I was going to be on Jay Leno's show, and she just happened to be riding the bus past the site for the video shoot. She hopped off the bus and cheered and clapped so loudly that the director decided it would be fun to put her up onstage.

Her weight never crossed my mind. She was a normal girl. But her being normal and being in a video had brought on a wave of comfort for this woman in Atlanta.

"I wish I had seen a video like that when I was younger," she explained. "It would have saved me a world of hurt. I only hope that some other heavy girls watched it and realized they don't have to look like rail-thin models. They don't have to hate themselves."

This is one of the many things that I admire about Clay Aiken - "Her weight never crossed my mind. She was a normal girl." and I know that he means this. He accepts people as they are for who they are.

and now, here's my interpretation of The Real Me, hope you enjoy:

technorati tags: clay aiken, "clay aiken", the real me, beauty and the beast, natalie grant

Clay Aiken - Perfection Takes Time

2008-08-28T17:21:00.000-07:00

Perfection Takes Time Honey these four words were said by Clay Aiken during his 2005 Jukebox Tour. These words continue to echo in my mind and help when I'm searching for ways to "define" Clay - he is on a journey to perfection. Clay is the master entertainer - whether in concert, being interviewed or on stage on the Great White Way and he continues to hone his skills.

But what is perfection? Wikipedia defines it as:

"Perfection is, broadly, a state of completeness and flawlessness."

Now let's face it, no one is perfect. And those who think they're perfect are tedious, boring and pompous. I don't want perfection in anyone - not my family, friends and or the object of my journey - Clay Aiken.

I enjoy Clay just the way he is. I enjoy watching him grow - change, right before our eyes. I enjoy every step, every twist, every turn. I enjoy not knowing what's next. I enjoy that he can throw me for a loop - that he is unpredictable.

I love it when he gets angry that the press will not focus on important matters and instead seem to focus on his feet (while they are verra verra nice feet, they're feet nonetheless).

I love that he is outspoken, even when it comes back and bites him on the butt. I love that he embraces what he does best, the music he excels at, the dork inside of him. I love that he can laugh at himself.

Is Clay Aiken perfect? Absolutely, unequivocally "no" and that's what makes him so very special.

Perfection Takes Time Honey - yep, it sure does. And I'm enjoying every second of the unending journey to perfection

*screech* Okay, to the Anonymous who posted this comment - thank you. You have summed it up FAR BETTER than I ever could:

"What! You mean he's not perfect??! :-0 ??? (Just kidding). He takes the good, ignores the bad, tries to live his life with the goal of leaving a positive impact in some way. Has his own foundation to help children who find themselves on the outside looking in as they grow... I'd be proud of him if he was my family member. Heck, I'm just proud of him anyway! Who needs to be "cool" when years from now, a child who was alone and excluded remembers being included and feeling a sense of self they couldn't have gotten before grows up?"

Technorati Tags: clay aiken, perfection takes time, aiken, clay, jukebox tour

Clay Aiken - Blogging 101

2008-08-27T18:03:00.000-07:00

Sorry to be a Clay Aiken blog hog (hee hee) today, but my last one was so short I NEEDED to blog AGAIN!!!! This is about my Clay Aiken journey, and one of the things I have learned about is blogging.

Blogging is tougher than I thought it would be!! Although I come across as a very shy person, I really do love to talk. But putting things "on paper" can be tough.

Now, I could take the chicken shit way out and just copy and paste other people's blogs, but I would rather try to be more creative than that!! Anyone can copy and paste - you don't need brains (just a good mouse) but to try to come up with something interesting and clever on a daily basis takes some brain power.

I have blogged about Spamalot, American Idol, the media and On My Way Here. I haven't blogged about the hateful, nasty people I have run across - but that one will be an epic blog (it's amazed me how many vile people are on the internet - it's actually very scary).

I have learned about blogs from the BEST there is!!! These people are articulate, insightful and very talented. Check out their work!!!!

Chexxxy's Pearls

Clay Aiken Ruminations

Clay Aiken Truth

Carolina On My Mind

All That Is Clay Aiken

and so many more (check out the right side of the blog and click away!!!!)

I'm still learning, but I'm on my way.

Here's a big THANK YOU to the Clay Aiken fans who have helped me along the way - you are all AMAZING!!!

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Clay Aiken Hits the Great White Way - Part Deux

2008-08-27T13:34:00.000-07:00

Only Clay Aiken could make me risk blogging from work!!! Just released from Playbill!!!

From Playbill:

Brace yourselves, Claymates! The wig masters at the Shubert are fluffing those glorious red tresses in preparation for Clay Aiken’s sure-to-be-triumphant return as Sir Robin on September 19. And it's a good thing too, as the crooner has quipped that life post-SPAMALOT has been seemingly devoid of meaning. Tasteless food and hue-free grass. Have no fear, Clay. Only a few more weeks until the skies turn blue again

Click here for more information!!

PLAYBILL

and if that isn’t enough to get the heart pumping,

Clay Aiken, Chris Brown, and Pam Anderson will be the first three celebrities featured on LALATE 2, the highly anticipated new celebrity expansion of LALATE NEWS. Aiken, Brown, and Anderson will be the first of countless celebrities to be added progressively to LALATE 2 after it launches this September.

Clay Aiken - The Great Adventure!

2008-08-26T05:33:00.001-07:00

Clay Aiken - The Great Adventure. That has been EXACTLY what this journey has been for me! A Clay Aiken adventure.

I have learned so much about so many things since I began this journey. One thing I learned was how to slap pictures to music. Here's the first one that I ever made.

More to follow, but for now? Off to Work!!

Clay Aiken - An Amazing Five Year Journey

2008-08-24T07:05:00.000-07:00

I began this journey when this skinny young man stepped in front of the judges on American Idol. My first thought was "no, not ANOTHER one! I don't like it when then rip people apart" and then he opened his mouth and the most glorious music came out. You could say the first lesson I learned from Clay Aiken is never judge a book by its cover (well, I knew that before Clay - he just reinforced it).

The second season of American Idol was, in my opinion, the best - ever. It was TRULY giving ordinary people a shot at stardom. It was innocent and fun. I miss the innocence. It now feels like American Idol Second Shot at Stardom. Too much glitz. Too many people with REAL experience. I'm not talking garage bands or singing on the weekends in local theaters, but people who have toured, recorded, had contracts. I have stopped watching AI and that makes me sad. American Idol gave me Clay *sigh*. Oops!!! Sorry!!! back on track.

Okay, so skinny young man makes it to Hollywood! He shines! Not just that voice (you know, the one that makes everything kind of stand still? Takes the breath right out of you?), but the heart. "It's important that I make a difference in some way.." Clay's words have followed him past American Idol and he continues to make a difference in some way. Actually, in LOTS of ways (more than this poor old blog can handle). There I go again - BACK ON TRACK!!!

So, shining Clay sings his HEART out! His voice, stage presence and personality carry him all the way to the TOP TWO!!! Ruben & Clay, Clay & Ruben (Jeff Foxworthy said he enjoyed watching the two of them on American Idol because they looked like the #10 *hee hee* - my gosh I ramble, don't I??). Clay comes in second *sob* but that's okay!! We go on to

Measure of a Man double platinum in the first week. Great album!!! Merry Christmas with Love I don't even like Christmas music, but love this CD. No one sings Christmas like Clay. A Thousand Different Ways scared me at first, since I didn't like the majority of these songs when they first came out, but oh my - when Clay sings them? WOW!!!! On My Way Here what can I say? This CD has it all - uptempo, ballads, inspirational, sad, happy (and I still haven't picked a favorite and you guys were no help at all).

So here we are, an Amazing Five Year Journey with Clay Aiken - the true Measure of a Man, who I have loved A Thousand Different Ways On My Way Here *grin*

ps I will update this montage to include REAL OMWH footage, just too lazy right now!!!

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Clay Aiken - My On My Way Here Dilemma

2008-08-23T09:50:00.000-07:00

I have a real dilemma with Clay Aiken's newest masterpiece, On My Way Here. It's actually a dilemma that is sorely missing in today's music environment.

My dilemma? I don't have any clue which song is my favorite!! Seriously, how do you pick? Each song is so different, so special.

I love the story of On My Way Here - its universal themes can ring true for so many. I love the upbeat feel of Ashes - turn around and see what love's done for me. Everything I Don't Need - raw and sexy (yes, I said sexy). Something About Us - destined to be a classic. Falling - amazing production, amazing vocal performance, perfect for radio. The list goes on and ON!!!

Because I couldn't decide, I spent some time clipping each song, trying to highlight my favorite section (which was, yet again, almost impossible).

Take a listen - can you decide?

Help? Please?

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Clay Aiken - On My Way Here

2008-08-22T19:30:00.000-07:00

On May 6, 2008 Clay Aiken released his third full length CD, On My Way Here (OMWH). Unlike A Thousand Different Ways (ATDW - released September 19, 2006), OMWH is a compilation original music.

I love ATDW. I love Clay's vocal nuances, how he caresses the notes - it's just beautiful. My favorite song on ATDW was the iTunes bonus song - Lover All Alone (Lyrics by Clay Aiken/Music by David Foster and Emanuel Kiriakou) and I'm thrilled that this song also made it to OMWH too (people need to hear this song, like lots)

Now on to OMWH - what an amazing CD. Each song was hand picked and chronicles lessons learned as we wade our way through our 20s (I, for one, enjoyed my 30s much more than my 20s - ya hear that Clay?). One of my FAVORITE songs on OMWH is, yet again, the bonus song on the WalMart version - Forget I Ever Knew You (tomorrow's blog will be all about my OMWH dilemma).

Forget I Ever Knew You was written by Greg Critchley and is absolutely amazing. For your listening (and hopefully viewing) pleasure - Forget I Ever Knew You:

If you do not have this CD, get ye to WalMart and pick one up. Or, better yet, how about ordering online? Save a little gas (GO GREEN!!!)

On My Way Here - Bonus CD - WalMart

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Clay Aiken Returns to Spamalot!!!

2008-08-21T18:47:00.000-07:00

Earlier in my blog, I had to interrupt my Clay Aiken journey (and at some point I need to get back on track) to let you all know about having Seat

and being on stage with the Knights of Spamalot (especially brave brave Sir Robin).

Still trying to figure out how to get back, this time with my son so that he can see this

but since that probably won't happen, I'll just have to live with my memories (sigh, and amazing memories they are)

Well done Clay - have a wonderful second run in Spamalot. Enjoy your time in New York with that new family of yours!!!!

but MOST IMPORTANT - FIND YOUR GRAIL!!!!

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