Lazaro Arbos was voted into the Top 10 finalists on “American Idol,” making the Cuban-born singer one step closer to joining the likes of previous competition winners Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Hudson and Kelly Clarkson.
Arbos, 21, sung his way into the show’s finals with his rendition of “Feeling Good” and is joined in the Top 10 by fellow Latino contestant Devin Velez. The Chicago native not only stunned with his music but also drew attention for his oh-so-cute looks, drawing comment from judge Nicki Minaj, who called Velez a “Spanish Ken doll” during Wednesday’s show. He will join Arbos on the national “American Idol” summer tour.
I can truly say that I cant believe that I’ve made it.. I just want to thank you guys for all of the love and support. #blessed
— Devin Velez (@DevinAI12) March 8, 2013
In a surprising elimination whittling down 20 contestants to 10 however, fan favorite Tenna Torres – who shared a special bond with judge Mariah Carey by having attended Camp Mariah – was sent home.
Thank you guys so much for all the love and support through all this idol experience I love yall!
— Tenna Torres (@TennaTorres) March 8, 2013
But last night’s show was all about Arbos, who first made headlines when he auditioned in Chicago. Singing “Bridge Over Troubled Water” – which he repeated as his victory performance on Wednesday’s show – the Florida resident revealed to America that despite a severe stutter, he’s able to sing without impediment. And for Arbos, who shared early in the show that he found it difficult to make friends, or even find a good job, victory is even sweeter. He now has over 21,000 friends on Twitter and very well could become the next “American Idol.”
I was a hot mess tonight with my song I was so happy I made top 10 thank you guys for making this happen for megonna make y’all proud
— Lazaro Arbos (@LazaroAI12) March 8, 2013
“Remember,” show host Ryan Seacrest said of the Top 10 during the show’s closing, “one of them is your Season 12 ‘American Idol.’”
