- CCS News
- Homepage
Deshawn Goncalves Hoping to Make it to the Top Nine on American Idol
April 16, 2021 -- 2019 East High School graduate Deshawn Goncalves continues to advance on the nationally televised singing competition, “American Idol.” Goncalves has risen to the Top 12.
“It feels amazing,” said Goncalves.“I’m living the dream and doing exactly what I am supposed to be doing. When I was little, I used to run around and tell Mom I want to sing. Dad, I want to sing.”
For the last month, Goncalves has been living in the Los Angeles area. He is balancing his “American Idol” commitments and college coursework at Jackson State University.
“I’m still enrolled, and my college professors have been great,” said the 19-year old college sophomore. “They understand and see what I’m doing. I communicate with my professors regularly and work on my school assignments remotely when I have a few spare hours.”
Goncalves shared that there is so much more to “American Idol” than what people see when they tune into the show. There are hours of practice and working with the stage crew and musicians. While it’s not all glamorous, Goncalves admits he could get used to parts of his newfound fame.
“I have not driven a car in a month; they drive me anywhere I want to go,” said Goncalves. “They also provide delicious food. They will make me whatever I want to eat.”
While Goncalves misses home, he admits it has been a fantastic experience so far and he wouldn’t trade it for anything.
“So far, I’ve endured in this competition,” said the Columbus native. “I’m going to continue to work hard and persevere. To all the Columbus City Schools students out there, dream big. Don’t give up. It can happen if you really want it to.”
Goncalves admits he has come a long way from singing at Honor Roll Assemblies at Columbus City Schools.
You can catch Deshawn Goncalves and the other singers in action this Sunday, April 18, at 8 p.m. on ABC performing Oscar-nominated songs. Goncalves hopes America votes him into the Top 9.