By: Jade King
BUFFALO, N.Y. – Do you have what it takes to be the next American Idol? Niagara University graduate, Dominic Hannon, sure thought so and boy was he right. On Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, Hannon auditioned in front of the producers of the popular show “American Idol.” Amazingly, he was one of the special few to go on to the next level.
There were no official numbers released but Hannon believes that from the 2,000 people that auditioned, only 30 people received the coveted golden ticket.
“It’s an awesome experience,” said Hannon. “It’s hard to explain in words, it’s like euphoria.”
Arriving at 5:45 a.m., Hannon waited hours for his chance to sing his first song “Raven” by The Dave Mathews Band. The producer sensed his nerves and asked for another one. He responded by playing “Pinch Me” by the Barenaked Ladies. After discussing his performance and hearing his story, she grabbed the golden piece of paper and wrote out his name.
He received his first guitar when he was 12 years old, gifted to him by his biggest supporters, his mom and dad. He spent five years seriously playing and finding gigs in bars. He started his first band Improbable Cause soon after but currently plays for his latest alternative rock band, Film House.
Hannon graduated from Niagara University in May 2017 and is currently attending Buffalo State to get his second year of his masters in Higher Education and Student Affairs administration. He is the graduate assistant of student leadership and engagement office.
Hannon has been overwhelmed with support and entirely grateful for everyone who has reached out to him.
“As much of a thing this is for me this is a thing for my community where I grew up in,” Hannon said. “I like connecting back to South Buffalo because they are the ones that raised me.”
Next on his journey, he is anticipating an email that will tell him to go down to Atlanta, Georgia for part two of his auditions. If all goes well he will then play in front of the judges and then on TV.
Niagara Wire 