David Cook in Manila: Worldwide fame still seems surreal
Being at the center of a packed press conference happening at the other end of the world still seems like a dream sequence for seventh season "American Idol" winner David Cook. This is what he pointed out to Filipino reporters gathered at the EDSA Shangri-la Hotel yesterday, Friday the 13th.
"This is ridiculous. It's pretty weird to have a press conference halfway around the world. I'm amazed," said the 28-year old singer-songwriter known for having won the Battle of Davids (the other being Archuleta) during the Idol finale in 2008.
Cook is performing at the Smart Araneta Coliseum tonight, July 14, and at Cebu Waterfront Hotel on Sunday, July 15.
Unforgettable Manila
A couple of years back, Cook visited Manila for a showdown with David Archuleta in front of the Filipino crowd.
"That was three years ago but I still talk about the show and the experience. This country is incredible and beautiful," he noted with pride.
He also emphasized, "I had yet to find people who are more friendly than you."
Cook, whose album "This Loud Morning" is locally distributed by Ivory music, has already toured the world so his praise about Pinoy hospitality seems grounded in experience.
Underdog champ
An Idol underdog who became a favorite following his renditions of "Billie Jean" and "Always Be My Baby," Cook eventually won the contest, becoming the first of a string of "white guy with guitar" winners.
His coronation song "Time of My Life" is reported to have sold over a million copies, making it the most popular among the finale tunes so far.
"Gonna have a good time tonight," he assured everybody about his Manila concert.
Baffled by Idol voters
When queried about existing pattern of winners in recent Idol editions, he somewhat sent across the message that he himself is baffled by whatever trend is being noticed.
He pointed out, referring to the latest Idol finale clash, "I had no pulse about what the American public was thinking."
Then he reiterated his fascination over Jessica Sanchez's talent. "She's just really, really good."
