Synopsis
When he was younger, David Cook wanted to pitch in the Major Leagues, but an injury shattered his dreams. Instead, David turned to music. After years of working at odd jobs and performing with small-time rock 'n' roll bands, David Auditioned for American Idol. After a Lively competition against many talented contestants David emerged as the winner, capturing the season seven title by 12 million votes
After releasing a hit album, David saw 11 of his singles climb onto Billboard magazine's Hot 100 chart-a feat that no individual artist or group had been able to do since 1964 when the Beatles placed 14 songs on the charts. Adored for his sandpapery voice and the unusual arrangements he selects for his songs, David's debut album has sold more than a million copies. However, David is not content to be a one-hit wonder; his goal is to win an Oscar, Grammy, or Tony Award.
Children's Literature
In 2007, David Cook entered the American Idol competition. As a child, Cook loved two things: baseball and singing. He hoped to become a professional pitcher, but that dream ended when his throwing arm was injured. David then turned to his other passion, music. He spent four years playing the violin then learned how to play the guitar. In high school, he performed in musicals and was told he had talent to become a big star. Eventually he made a demo CD and is quoted as saying, "I'd never learned so much about myself as a musician than I did that year." Cook graduated from college with a degree in graphic design, but he still wanted to pursue his love of music. He gave himself two years to see to if he could make a living as a musician. When Cook's brother Andrew planned to audition for American Idol, David agreed to accompany his mother and brother to the audition. Cook decided to enter the competition at the urging of his brother. While Andrew did not make the cut, David did. He advanced each week, finally becoming one of the final eight contestants and then the final two. David Archleta was a strong contender, but Cook was named the seventh season winner of American Idol. After winning, he had eleven songs on Billboard magazine's Hot 100 Chart. To date, he has recorded two singles, two albums, and two music videos. He was also nominated for Teen Choice awards for Breakout Artist and Album. The future is promising for this young rock star who never intended to audition for American Idol, but is thankful that he did. Color photographs are included as well as a chronology, an awards list, a glossary, suggested further reading, and a list of internet resources. Reviewer: Della A. Yannuzzi