Jordan's 1st single has radio potential

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

'Be the One' (Island Groove)

His first CD single, "Be the One" (Island Groove) is being released today, and it's a cheerful, auspicious prelude to a full album due later this year.

The track, which he co-wrote with Aaron Kimura, is suitable for radio play, with attractive musical hooks and a performance that radiates with the singer's boyishness and sweetness. The romantic, get-to-know-you lyrics are especially suitable for Jordan (he doesn't use his surname in the marketing of the disc).

As Hawai'i's first "Idol" contestant, from Season 2, Jordan has parlayed his prime-time appearance into a career of local anthem-singing, occasional concert slots and his ultimate goal: to become a recording personality in the Islands. The Hawai'i fans and radio jocks who cheered him on in "American Idol," where he made it to the show's group of 32 finalists before being eliminated, have been looking forward to this disc.

The companion song on the CD single, "So Many Reasons," written by local crooner Glenn Medeiros, also has potential on radio playlists. It's a powerful ballad with piano accompaniment, enhanced by Jordan's upper-register prowess and Maila Gibson's sultry vocal support.

Production values are crisp and impressive, under the tutelage of producer Dave Tucciarone.

Girls, take note of the skin Jordan flashes on the back-cover image.

"Be the One" by Jordan Segundo. Audio sample available in mp3 format.

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