An American Idol First - Jon Peter Lewis  2/21/07

An 'American Idol' First - Jon Peter Lewis

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- With Chris Daughtry and Jennifer Hudson storming the music charts, another 'American Idol' finalist is savoring personal success. Jon Peter Lewis has become the first 'Idol' finalist coming off the show to independently produce and release a full-length debut album with all original songs. Called a "true entertainer" by MTV, an "American Idol favorite" by Billboard magazine, and "brave" by Simon Cowell, industry insiders are not only impressed with Jon's passion and determination to create his own label and maintain control of his first record, but with his music as well. JPL's eagerly awaited debut album, Stories from Hollywood, follows on the heels of his critically acclaimed singles, "If I Go Away," "It's Christmas," and "California Christmas."

"Stories from Hollywood is a collection of instantly infectious songs with clever, provocative lyrics ... in other words, it's the sort of album you wished more former 'Idols' dared to make. We knew JPL was a true entertainer, now we know the kid can write." -- Corey Moss Senior Writer, MTV

"Don't take a road trip without this CD. Jon Peter Lewis has many stories to share -- all worth listening to." -- Monica Rizzo, People magazine

"Jon Peter Lewis has real charisma as a person, a performer and recording artist. The songs are honest yet accessible and Jon sings them with warmth and conviction. I prefer this album to some of the other major label Idol releases." -- Don Grierson, Former Head of A&R at Capitol and Epic Records

"This eclectic combo of pop, alternative rock and a bit of the blues, mixed with strong vocals, great instrumentals and unique beats, showcases this up-and-coming artist as a star in the making." -- Jessica Venditto, AI Magazine

On "California Christmas:"

"American Idol favorite, Jon Peter Lewis, swipes at the winter chill in 'California Christmas,' an instant classic which conjures Beach Boys meets Phil Spector." -- Chuck Taylor, Billboard Magazine

Although a challenging path to take, Jon turned down offers from producers wanting to package him in favor of maintaining control over his debut album. "My heart just wasn't into being a ballad singer or creating a teenybopper image." Jon explains. "I've always felt more comfortable with a rock edge to my music and that's the sound I wanted to develop."

Jon is currently performing with his band throughout the country, including recent performances at the Viper Room in Hollywood, California and a live broadcast performance at the prestigious Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in Los Angeles. Jon headlined the 2007 Mardi Gras celebration in Larose, Louisiana and was the Grand Marshal of their parade. Jon continues to be a favorite guest of radio and television, most recently performing live on Valentine's Day for the national morning show Fox & Friends in New York City.

About Jon: Jon Peter Lewis was a finalist on American Idol's third season. Following his successful run on 'Idol' and subsequent 50-city tour, he began writing and recording songs with impressive results. Presently living in Los Angeles, Jon has appeared on numerous national television programs, including The Today Show, Entertainment Tonight, Access Hollywood, Good Day Live, Regis & Kelly!, MTV, TLC, and The CBS Early Show. Jon has been a recent contributor to Rolling Stone.com and will be featured in People magazine's upcoming 'Idol' success book. He will also be profiled in the original series, Frequency, jamming with Grammy nominee Dave Koz, which is set to air on Public Television stations this summer. 

SOURCE Cockaroo Entertainment

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