The show American Idol has given us some incredible talent through the years. As is to be expected though, most of the attention continues to be placed on the winners. But what about those contestants you found yourself rooting for back in the day only to have them slip from your mind years later? Well, I am here to remind you of five incredible talents you may very well have forgotten about. But these are five talents that deserve to come back to the forefront of your minds.
1. Tim Urban (Season 9)
Now a married man and a father of two, Tim Urban was always more than just a pretty face. He placed seventh during his run on the show and serenaded us every week with his smooth voice. And it worked because he captured the hearts of millions and this ultimately led to a solid following on social media. He's keeping busy chasing after his two little ones but he managed to start posting daily videos that include things from opinions, insights, and just general musings. Be sure to check out his website as well as following him on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
2. Riley Bria (Season 13)
Riley was always a contestant that stuck with me. I've never been a country music fan but there was something about Riley that drew me in. Maybe it was his incredible guitar playing or maybe it was his stellar voice. Probably a combination. I'm amazed that he never made it to the top 12 because this guy deserves to go places. This kid has got dreams and he knows what to do with them. Help him on his journey by following him on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
3. Tim Halperin (Season 10)
A brilliant songwriter, piano player, singer, and just an all-around swell guy, Tim Halperin was robbed. Hands down, should have made it further than he did on the show. I remember this elimination hitting me hard. I was attached to this guy. I loved the way he sang, who he was, what he wanted to do with his music. So to see something so great be taken away was just devastating. Fortunately, I was lucky enough to meet him a few years later (a meeting in which he was excited to meet me because we had talked quite a bit on Twitter) and I was not disappointed. Strike up your own conversations with Tim on his Twitter, Instagram, and website and be sure to check out his latest single on Spotify.
4. Johnny Keyser (Seasons 11 & 12)
Now known as "John K.", Johnny always had a voice that didn't necessarily sound like what you would expect. In the best way possible, of course. This boy has got some soul, let me tell you. He has done some incredible things since his days on Idol and his placement in both of his seasons still stuns me to this day. His voice is powerful, he's got skills on the piano, and he knows how to write a good tune. Don't believe me? Check out his Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. And also check out his debut single under his new name.
5. Robbie Rosen (Season 10)
Y'all knew this was coming. This is my boy right here. Although Robbie only made it to the top 16 of his season, he has done incredible things since then and has been met with monumental success. Not only is he an outstanding singer, musician, and performer, but he is also one of the sweetest guys you will ever have the pleasure of meeting. I could wax poetic about this guy for awhile so I'll keep this one short and sweet. Be sure to follow him on all the things: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.