American Idol Finalist DeAndre Brackensick Returns to San Jose

San Jose native and American Idol finalist DeAndre Brackensick returns to San Jose on July 22 for the American Idol Live Tour at HP Pavilion.

Though loved by judge Jennifer Lopez, Brackensick was eliminated from the show on of the final rounds of voting. This, however, has not stopped Brackensick’s career as a budding R&B singer.

Brackensick, an Oak Grove High School graduate, spoke with us from the road on tour in Utah.

It’s been awhile since you’ve been home in San Jose. What do you miss most?

The people, my friends and everything.

Is there anywhere on tour you have visited that you haven’t experienced before?

I got to go to Michigan and some other places. Its cool seeing different presentations in how people act. When you’re used to one way of life but then you get to see different lifestyles, its really cool.

HP Pavilion is huge local venue in your hometown. Do you have a lot of anticipation for that show?

I’m stoked. I can’t wait to come back to the Bay to represent for my people.

Do you have anything special planned while you are in San Jose?

Spending time with my family. We don’t have much time in between San Jose and the Sacramento show. I’m trying to enjoy time with them as much as I can.

It’s your first time on the road. What are some lessons you’ve learned about touring?

Back pains and neck pains are something that is common on touring. Its not bad, its just uncomfortable at times.

Has American Idol changed your perception of the music industry?

So much. American Idol has shown me so much about the industry. I’m glad I got to experience that. I’ve learned and grown so much as far as being an artist, just by being exposed to so many different people, picking up different things and being more open about different genres. Idol has helped to blossom me as an artist.

What can we expect from you next?

After the tour, I’ll be doing music. If not, I’ll be stacking cans at Target (laughs). I’m going to try to keep pushing my music as much as I can.

What is one of the hardest lessons you’ve had to learn about breaking into the music industry or trying to refine yourself as an artist?

Sometimes you just have to be you. You can learn from other people but you have to be you, no matter what. Show that and improve that.

American Idol Live features 10 American Idol finalists at HP Pavilion on July 22. More info.

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