Segundo gives tips on how to survive 'Idol' auditions

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

Be yourself. Be positive. Be prepared.

Jordan Segundo has had more than his 15 minutes of fame when he appeared on "American Idol," the popular reality series that spotlights talent. And he was the victim of the vitriol of the mean and intimidating judge, Simon Cowell. And he survived. Richard Ambo • The Honolulu Advertiser

Jordan Segundo, Hawai'i's "American Idol" contestant during the Fox-TV show's second season earlier this year, said contestants need to be tough, ready and able to face harsh criticism when they head to the audition lines today at Aloha Stadium for "American Idol 3."

Segundo should know; he has had more than his 15 minutes of fame when he appeared on the popular reality series that spotlights talent. And he was the victim of the vitriol of the mean and intimidating judge, Simon Cowell. And he survived.

"I was called 'fish on a slab' by Simon, and yes, it hurt," said Segundo, 18, a Farrington High School senior when he auditioned in Los Angeles last winter.

He impressed producers and judges in the early rounds, advanced to the elite top 32, only to be verbally decimated by the tough-as-nails, mince-no-words judge.

As thousands start lining up today and tomorrow for the first round of auditions, Segundo offered tips on how to approach the cattle call and survive the ordeal. (See box).

"You definitely need to think positively. But you really need to be yourself first, or you're not going to last," said Segundo.

Patience helps, too, he said, because lines are long, waits are longer. You'll be tired, but you'll have to maintain a sunny outlook. Introverts need not apply.

"I'm glad it was me, representing Hawai'i," said Segundo, who was the only candidate to survive the arduous audition process to make it into the first round of singing candidates on camera, before judges Cowell, Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul.

"Friends have been calling, seeking all kinds of advice," said Segundo, a Kalihi resident. "I always give the same answers: Follow your heart, no one can really tell you what to do. Take a song you're comfortable with and run with it."

"American Idol" judge Simon Cowell called Jordan Segundo a "fish on a slab." Advertiser library photo

Though he didn't go the distance, Segundo has no regrets and he remains hopeful and philosophical.

"I've grown up with rejection for most of my life," he said. "I think this has made me better, stronger. I think experiencing the auditions has given me a positive outlook on life. One thing people need to know: You have to be mentally prepared for something like this. There are some major highs, but definitely some lows."

Segundo has had a busy seven or eight months since exiting "Idol," launching a singing career here, becoming a household name and face; he's enrolled in English, speech, sociology and math courses at Honolulu Community College; and has started doing "Jordan's Journal" reports for KHON-2 news. Currently, his TV assignment is to handle student athletes of the week and he's likely to do some reports on "American Idol's" first Island auditions.

Best of all, Segundo has started work on his first-ever CD.

"I'm half-way through; it should be out early next year," he said. There are some original tunes, but nothing I wrote yet. I'm bringing back some oldies, doing a lot of adult contemporary tunes, and some Island groove stuff."

Reach Wayne Harada at wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com, 525-8067 or fax 525-8055.

Hit 'em with your best shot

Here are 10 tips from Jordan Segundo on how to survive the "American Idol" auditions:

• Choose the right song: Select a tune that shows off your voice. Remember, you have only a few seconds to prove you have what it takes.
• Grooming counts: Make sure you look good from head to toe. Wear something that shows off your own sense of style.
• Get in line early: There will be thousands of "Idol" wannabes, so you want to make sure you have a good spot in line. And be prepared to wait for a long time and possibly sleep on the ground. But hey, who said being a star was easy?
• De-stress your voice: Being in line for a few hours can take a toll on your voice. Make sure you drink lots of warm liquids and do vocal warm-ups before you sing. Avoid any dairy products and yelling. Your voice is your instrument; take care of it.
• Book 'em: If you are a school student, let your teachers know that you will be missing classes. (Get all make-up work done as soon as possible.)
• Attitude counts: Be friendly and make as many friends as you can. You never know — that person next to you may be the next "American Idol."
• Best bet: When it's your turn to audition, relax and do your best. You don't want to come off nervous or unsure. Be yourself and try not to overdo it. A simple performance is always better.
• The down side: "American Idol" is known for its harsh criticisms. Prepare yourself mentally for rejection and take constructive criticism with dignity. Always have a positive attitude and remember that Hawai'i is behind you all the way.
• A don't: Don't be shy. Feel free to show your personality or your wild side and be very outgoing. The television cameras love interesting people. If you are one of the lucky ones who move on to the next rounds, get ready for a life-changing experience.
• A do: Last but not least, have fun and never give up!