Caleb Johnson Wins American Idol

It has been a long road, but tonight crowned Asheville’s very own Caleb Johnson the winner for the 13th season of the hit reality television show American Idol! Since the season premiered January 15th, locals all over Western North Carolina have been avidly following Erwin High School graduate Caleb Johnson in his quest for a record deal. This wasn’t Caleb’s first time on American Idol.

He first debuted at age 19, during the 2011 season of the popular singing show. He got unanimously voted through to the Hollywood round, where he was cut shortly after. In 2012 Caleb tried again, this time making it to the ‘Sing For Your Life’ round, just before the final 24 contestant showdown. This year Caleb slowly made his way up the ladder, winning out over contestants again and again, amazing judges with his vocal range and strong voice.

Caleb’s song choices for the season include his audition song, titled ‘Into the Void’, an original composition. He has covered Adele in ‘Skyfall’, Imagine Dragons with ‘Radioactive’, Aretha Franklin in ‘Chain of Fools’, and Bon Jovi with ‘You Give Love A Bad Name’. You can check out some of his digital singles available on iTunes

As winner of American Idol, Caleb scores a record deal with promise of $350,000 payment. Depending on how well his record does, Caleb could be a very well off young man. He has worked extremely hard to get where he is, and I think the AshevilleBlog staff speaks for our community in wishing Caleb a hearty Congratulations. You’ve earned it! Make Asheville proud.

Want to see Caleb’s first audition? Check out the video below: