Kris only went to the American Idol audition because his brother Daniel, who wanted to audition himself, talked him into it. He impressed the judges enough to make it to Hollywood which was just the beginning of a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
"I think, more than anything, and I'm sure there are other people that do this as well, but I really, really try to stay true to myself," Kris says. "True to what kind of music I play or style or whatever. I'm not trying to change anything. I like who I am and I'm happy."
That quiet confidence was evident in Kris' performances throughout the course of the Idol competition. Viewers, not just in Arkansas, but across America began to notice him. Even the judges started to notice that the quiet guy from Arkansas might just have what it takes to make it all the way.
"It was brilliant," Paula said after one of Kris' performances. Randy agreed. "I think you've kind of hit your zone," he said. "Just keep it in stride. You ain't doing nothing wrong. It's all good right now, baby."
"Kris," Kara exclaimed after another performance. "I have three words for you: That is artistry!"
Although Simon clearly favored front-runner Adam Lambert, he had to admit that Kris was in the running. "I agree with the guys. It was your best performance so far. Well done."
Actor and recording artist Jamie Foxx saw Kris' potential immediately when he was a guest on American Idol. "You're already the artist. You're my number one," he told Kris. He told the Idol producers, "This dude is a dude I'll do a record with."
True to his humble style, which has won over fans young and old, Kris seemed genuinely shocked when Ryan Seacrest announced that he had won. The emotion was evident on his face as he embraced his roommate and friend Adam Lambert.
As the confetti rained down and Kris gave his first performance as the new American Idol, the Natural State erupted in cheers for the quiet guy from Arkansas who became an American Idol by staying true to himself.
