Sarah Burgess

Sarah Burgess earns her shot at television stardom


East Palestine native earns her shot at television stardom

By MATTHEW SCHOMERJournal Staff Writer

EAST PALESTINE — “The only question with me now is ‘Do I make you proud?’ ”

Those lyrics, from the song Taylor Hicks sang just after being named the American Idol in 2006, may sum up the feelings of 19-year-old Sarah Burgess as she made a tearful — and televised — phone call to her father, Bob Burgess of East Palestine, after she found out she would be heading to Hollywood for the 2007 American Idol competition.

And proud he is.

“Honestly, if she auditioned, there was no question in my mind that she was going to make it,” Bob announced. “She’s got the looks; she’s got the personality; she can sing.”

But in August, when the tapings of the New York auditions for the show were held, and Sarah sneaked away from her college classes in order to attend, she told the panel of judges her parents didn’t know she was there, and if they did, they wouldn’t approve.

“I was just nervous,” she told the Morning Journal, referencing the phone call. “I didn’t want him to be upset.”

And when he wasn’t upset, but rather, excited, it only raised Sarah’s level of excitement.

Bob claimed the phone call was edited for television, and there was, in reality, more distortion. He couldn’t even figure out who was calling him and was afraid something terrible had happened.

Sarah’s mother, the coincidentally named Melody Burgess, said her daughter’s decision to audition wasn’t her biggest concern. The celebrity status was.

“We were always proud of her,” she said. “We just worry. There’s just a lot of weirdos out there.”

This isn’t the first time Sarah has had the chance to become an idol, but it’s certainly the most profound.

She has entered three karaoke contests in her life, all of them in Boardman, and won all three, including an “Idol” competition at the Camelot Lanes bowling alley.

But the competition this time is a little more steep.

For her audition for the show in early August, she sang Sinead O’Connor’s “Nothing Compares to You” and Christina Aguilera’s “Walk Away,” but the song that apparently won the judges over — and appeared on Wednesday’s television show — was early ’80s pop song “Call Me” by Blondie.

The performance was enough to sweep approval from the three-judge panel, even from hard-nosed Simon Cowell, traditionally the panel’s toughest critic across its six seasons.

“You’re not the best singer we’ve heard,” Cowell told Burgess during the taping. “You’re not the best singer in this competition, but I think you are a trier, and I don’t think you have a bad voice, and I like you.”

Randy Jackson called her singing “a different color of tone,” which he admittedly also liked, and Paula Abdul called her brave for auditioning against her parents’ wishes.

Sarah called the judges comments that day very fair.

“I know I’m not the best singer, but I could be,” she said, noting she had never taken professional voice lessons prior to the audition. “And (Cowell’s) right. I am a trier.”

She was especially excited about Cowell’s comments.

“I was so happy when he didn’t say a mean thing. None of them did,” she said with a smile in her voice.

While that voice may be new to most of America, several community members in her old hometown know it well. She has sung in choirs in school and at the First Church of Christ in East Palestine and has enjoyed making her singing heard since before she can remember.

“Ever since I could talk,” she recalled, was when she began singing.

Anyone who followed the Bulldogs’ 2004-2005 basketball season probably has heard her sing the national anthem — she performed it at about eight of the games that season, which was in her junior year at the high school.

But in her senior year, she recalled, “I had asked many times (to sing the anthem) and they told me it was all booked.”

No matter. She’s making - MATTHEW SCHOMER - Morning Journal

Sarah Burgess earns her shot at television stardom


East Palestine native earns her shot at television stardom

By MATTHEW SCHOMERJournal Staff Writer

EAST PALESTINE — “The only question with me now is ‘Do I make you proud?’ ”

Those lyrics, from the song Taylor Hicks sang just after being named the American Idol in 2006, may sum up the feelings of 19-year-old Sarah Burgess as she made a tearful — and televised — phone call to her father, Bob Burgess of East Palestine, after she found out she would be heading to Hollywood for the 2007 American Idol competition.

And proud he is.

“Honestly, if she auditioned, there was no question in my mind that she was going to make it,” Bob announced. “She’s got the looks; she’s got the personality; she can sing.”

But in August, when the tapings of the New York auditions for the show were held, and Sarah sneaked away from her college classes in order to attend, she told the panel of judges her parents didn’t know she was there, and if they did, they wouldn’t approve.

“I was just nervous,” she told the Morning Journal, referencing the phone call. “I didn’t want him to be upset.”

And when he wasn’t upset, but rather, excited, it only raised Sarah’s level of excitement.

Bob claimed the phone call was edited for television, and there was, in reality, more distortion. He couldn’t even figure out who was calling him and was afraid something terrible had happened.

Sarah’s mother, the coincidentally named Melody Burgess, said her daughter’s decision to audition wasn’t her biggest concern. The celebrity status was.

“We were always proud of her,” she said. “We just worry. There’s just a lot of weirdos out there.”

This isn’t the first time Sarah has had the chance to become an idol, but it’s certainly the most profound.

She has entered three karaoke contests in her life, all of them in Boardman, and won all three, including an “Idol” competition at the Camelot Lanes bowling alley.

But the competition this time is a little more steep.

For her audition for the show in early August, she sang Sinead O’Connor’s “Nothing Compares to You” and Christina Aguilera’s “Walk Away,” but the song that apparently won the judges over — and appeared on Wednesday’s television show — was early ’80s pop song “Call Me” by Blondie.

The performance was enough to sweep approval from the three-judge panel, even from hard-nosed Simon Cowell, traditionally the panel’s toughest critic across its six seasons.

“You’re not the best singer we’ve heard,” Cowell told Burgess during the taping. “You’re not the best singer in this competition, but I think you are a trier, and I don’t think you have a bad voice, and I like you.”

Randy Jackson called her singing “a different color of tone,” which he admittedly also liked, and Paula Abdul called her brave for auditioning against her parents’ wishes.

Sarah called the judges comments that day very fair.

“I know I’m not the best singer, but I could be,” she said, noting she had never taken professional voice lessons prior to the audition. “And (Cowell’s) right. I am a trier.”

She was especially excited about Cowell’s comments.

“I was so happy when he didn’t say a mean thing. None of them did,” she said with a smile in her voice.

While that voice may be new to most of America, several community members in her old hometown know it well. She has sung in choirs in school and at the First Church of Christ in East Palestine and has enjoyed making her singing heard since before she can remember.

“Ever since I could talk,” she recalled, was when she began singing.

Anyone who followed the Bulldogs’ 2004-2005 basketball season probably has heard her sing the national anthem — she performed it at about eight of the games that season, which was in her junior year at the high school.

But in her senior year, she recalled, “I had asked many times (to sing the anthem) and they told me it was all booked.”

No matter. She’s making - MATTHEW SCHOMER - Morning Journal

EAST LIVERPOOL — The Angelworks Organization keeps adding to their upcoming “Big Give” family day, which will now feature a special guest performance from a former American Idol contestant.

Sarah Burgess will take the state at 1:30 p.m. for a one hour performance featuring music from her new album “One,” which is scheduled for release on May 1 off PME Records. Burgess, an East Palestine native, was thrilled at the opportunity to perform for the “Big Give” after being contacted by Angelworks, said her manager Craig Patterson.

“What attracted us to the idea of the performance was the Big Give in general, which has so much momentum,” Patterson said.

“Big Give” co-organizer, Kitty Ward, commended the efforts of her sister Susan Christian, whom she said has helped the organization connect with many donors thus far. Christian said that through her co-workers, she was able to make contact with the Burgess family, then Patterson. She said Burgess was “very interested” in getting involved with the event.

Patterson said Burgess’ first single “Dangerouz” has climbed to number 35 on the Single Top 40 charts for the secondary market. Having been in the business for 30 years, Patterson said he has never worked with someone who wanted to work as hard as Burgess does. He said she never wants to stop working, which is such a valuable work ethic that they never want to let go of her.

“It shows she takes it seriously and knows what’s at stake,” Patterson said.

In regard to the “Big Give,” Patterson said community participation makes all the difference, and hopes everyone will come in support. The event is scheduled to be at Thompson Park on May 24 from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. In addition the songs from the “One” album, he said Burgess will add a few contemporary staples to her repertoire, such as “Midnight Train to Georgia,” a 1973 number-one hit single by Gladys Knight & the Pips. She will also be signing autographs and greeting fans.

Other entertainment will include DJ Sherwood and various other singers in the local area. Donations have been made by King’s jewelers, James Locke Jewelers, Dairy Queen, Harley Davidson, the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium, and the Gateway Clipper Cruises, as well as various local churches and schools.

Proceeds from the “Big Give” will benefit local families in need, as well as food and clothing banks. Another goal for Angelworks is to reinstate the clothing voucher program for schools.

Anyone wishing to donate, volunteer, or buy raffle tickets may call Samantha Sherwood at 330-362-0290 or Kitty Ward at 330-932-0676. Donations can be made at any branch of the First National Community Bank, and checks should be made payable to Angelworks.

Burgess’ first single “Didn’t Matter That” was released worldwide on Sept. 20, 2007, and rose to No. 18 on the Idolwaves Chart. She has opened for Daughtry and Day of Fire at the Colorado State Fair. For more information on Sarah Burgess, go to www.sarahburgessmusic.com.
- Morning Journal

EAST LIVERPOOL — The Angelworks Organization keeps adding to their upcoming “Big Give” family day, which will now feature a special guest performance from a former American Idol contestant.

Sarah Burgess will take the state at 1:30 p.m. for a one hour performance featuring music from her new album “One,” which is scheduled for release on May 1 off PME Records. Burgess, an East Palestine native, was thrilled at the opportunity to perform for the “Big Give” after being contacted by Angelworks, said her manager Craig Patterson.

“What attracted us to the idea of the performance was the Big Give in general, which has so much momentum,” Patterson said.

“Big Give” co-organizer, Kitty Ward, commended the efforts of her sister Susan Christian, whom she said has helped the organization connect with many donors thus far. Christian said that through her co-workers, she was able to make contact with the Burgess family, then Patterson. She said Burgess was “very interested” in getting involved with the event.

Patterson said Burgess’ first single “Dangerouz” has climbed to number 35 on the Single Top 40 charts for the secondary market. Having been in the business for 30 years, Patterson said he has never worked with someone who wanted to work as hard as Burgess does. He said she never wants to stop working, which is such a valuable work ethic that they never want to let go of her.

“It shows she takes it seriously and knows what’s at stake,” Patterson said.

In regard to the “Big Give,” Patterson said community participation makes all the difference, and hopes everyone will come in support. The event is scheduled to be at Thompson Park on May 24 from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. In addition the songs from the “One” album, he said Burgess will add a few contemporary staples to her repertoire, such as “Midnight Train to Georgia,” a 1973 number-one hit single by Gladys Knight & the Pips. She will also be signing autographs and greeting fans.

Other entertainment will include DJ Sherwood and various other singers in the local area. Donations have been made by King’s jewelers, James Locke Jewelers, Dairy Queen, Harley Davidson, the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium, and the Gateway Clipper Cruises, as well as various local churches and schools.

Proceeds from the “Big Give” will benefit local families in need, as well as food and clothing banks. Another goal for Angelworks is to reinstate the clothing voucher program for schools.

Anyone wishing to donate, volunteer, or buy raffle tickets may call Samantha Sherwood at 330-362-0290 or Kitty Ward at 330-932-0676. Donations can be made at any branch of the First National Community Bank, and checks should be made payable to Angelworks.

Burgess’ first single “Didn’t Matter That” was released worldwide on Sept. 20, 2007, and rose to No. 18 on the Idolwaves Chart. She has opened for Daughtry and Day of Fire at the Colorado State Fair. For more information on Sarah Burgess, go to www.sarahburgessmusic.com.
- Morning Journal

SALEM - During tough economic times, people often cut out luxury items, including possibly attending theater events. However, Salem Community Theatre also knows people still have a need to laugh and be entertained.

The last weekend of January, the theater will perform a low-budget, two-night show "A Roast To Hollywood."

The show, in the style of "Saturday Night Live," will feature new hilarious takes on many favorite movies like "Ghostbusters," "The Wizard of Oz" and "Jaws." Not unlike Saturday Night Live, there also will be a guest host and musical guest - Sarah Burgess of "American Idol" fame.

Created by the board and directed by Dan Haueter, the show will blend live acting, live music and live laughter. Board President Dick Fawcett called the show mostly Haueter's "brainchild" adding he hopes the actors will be able to keep straight faces during some of the skits Haueter wrote.

Haueter said he is not the writer, stating the show was put together by the entire board, but he just happened to be the "unlucky" person, who got the job of typing everything up.

Burgess, a local pop-music diva, plans to sing three songs, including her top-40 hit song "Dangerouz."

She also has been invited to perform in some of the night's live skits, which she said she is anticipating. At East Palestine High School, Burgess was involved in drama. Besides writing the songs for her new album and preparing to tour in Japan, she said she also has been expanding her skills with acting lessons. Burgess also likes to support the arts, including local theater.

"I like to participate in things I believe in," Burgess said. "I wouldn't participate if it wasn't for a good cause."

The board of the Salem Community Theater has watched the nearby Youngstown Playhouse and Akron's Carousel Dinner Theater close in recent times. Fawcett said they want to make certain the Salem Community Theater does not suffer a similar demise.

"We're in the black right now," Fawcett said, "but it takes ongoing work to stay that way."

Some of the theater's most popular shows have been musicals, which are also the most expensive productions to stage. Fawcett said the rights are more expensive, and there is the need for music director and musicians.

"So far this year, we've been lucky to have corporate sponsors to help," Fawcett said.

The board members believe adding additional short, original productions like "A Roast to Hollywood" will allow them to defer some of the costs of some of the company's more expensive productions. Although they will be low cost, they also will provide a fun evening for the audience needing a night of entertainment on a budget.

By filling more theater seats, the Salem Community Theater board hopes to generate the revenue to keep the theater operating for a long while.

"A Roast to Hollywood" will cost $10 per ticket and start at 8 p.m. both Friday and Saturday, Jan. 30 and 31.

djohnson@mojonews.com

© Copyright 2012 Morning Journal News. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. - Morning Journal

SALEM - During tough economic times, people often cut out luxury items, including possibly attending theater events. However, Salem Community Theatre also knows people still have a need to laugh and be entertained.

The last weekend of January, the theater will perform a low-budget, two-night show "A Roast To Hollywood."

The show, in the style of "Saturday Night Live," will feature new hilarious takes on many favorite movies like "Ghostbusters," "The Wizard of Oz" and "Jaws." Not unlike Saturday Night Live, there also will be a guest host and musical guest - Sarah Burgess of "American Idol" fame.

Created by the board and directed by Dan Haueter, the show will blend live acting, live music and live laughter. Board President Dick Fawcett called the show mostly Haueter's "brainchild" adding he hopes the actors will be able to keep straight faces during some of the skits Haueter wrote.

Haueter said he is not the writer, stating the show was put together by the entire board, but he just happened to be the "unlucky" person, who got the job of typing everything up.

Burgess, a local pop-music diva, plans to sing three songs, including her top-40 hit song "Dangerouz."

She also has been invited to perform in some of the night's live skits, which she said she is anticipating. At East Palestine High School, Burgess was involved in drama. Besides writing the songs for her new album and preparing to tour in Japan, she said she also has been expanding her skills with acting lessons. Burgess also likes to support the arts, including local theater.

"I like to participate in things I believe in," Burgess said. "I wouldn't participate if it wasn't for a good cause."

The board of the Salem Community Theater has watched the nearby Youngstown Playhouse and Akron's Carousel Dinner Theater close in recent times. Fawcett said they want to make certain the Salem Community Theater does not suffer a similar demise.

"We're in the black right now," Fawcett said, "but it takes ongoing work to stay that way."

Some of the theater's most popular shows have been musicals, which are also the most expensive productions to stage. Fawcett said the rights are more expensive, and there is the need for music director and musicians.

"So far this year, we've been lucky to have corporate sponsors to help," Fawcett said.

The board members believe adding additional short, original productions like "A Roast to Hollywood" will allow them to defer some of the costs of some of the company's more expensive productions. Although they will be low cost, they also will provide a fun evening for the audience needing a night of entertainment on a budget.

By filling more theater seats, the Salem Community Theater board hopes to generate the revenue to keep the theater operating for a long while.

"A Roast to Hollywood" will cost $10 per ticket and start at 8 p.m. both Friday and Saturday, Jan. 30 and 31.

djohnson@mojonews.com

© Copyright 2012 Morning Journal News. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. - Morning Journal

One of the favourites for this weekend’s Swiss national final, Sarah Burgess, could miss out on taking part all together if she doesn’t overcome her recent illness. According to Blick.ch the singer, who hails from Ohio, is suffering from a virus and may not be able to sing on Saturday. “I’m going to give it my best shot, to be there” she told the newspaper.

In the event that Ms. Burgess cannot take part, Swiss broadcaster SF has confirmed that no other songs will be added to the list. “We hope that Sarah will be able to sing, but in the event she can’t then the show will run with 11 finalists”, a spokesperson said.

Meanwhile, SF has also announced the guest-jury line-up. Celebrity Baschi, Eurovision 2002 participant Fran­cine Jordi, Band lead-singer Pepe Lienhard, Eurovision legend Peter Reber and television presenter Nik Hartmann will all be judging the songs, however televoting will be used to select the winner. “Die grosse Entscheidungs Show”, the first time that the Swiss public will be able to vote on their Eurovision entry since 2004, will take place in two days time, beginning at 20:00 CET.
- ESC Daily

One of the favourites for this weekend’s Swiss national final, Sarah Burgess, could miss out on taking part all together if she doesn’t overcome her recent illness. According to Blick.ch the singer, who hails from Ohio, is suffering from a virus and may not be able to sing on Saturday. “I’m going to give it my best shot, to be there” she told the newspaper.

In the event that Ms. Burgess cannot take part, Swiss broadcaster SF has confirmed that no other songs will be added to the list. “We hope that Sarah will be able to sing, but in the event she can’t then the show will run with 11 finalists”, a spokesperson said.

Meanwhile, SF has also announced the guest-jury line-up. Celebrity Baschi, Eurovision 2002 participant Fran­cine Jordi, Band lead-singer Pepe Lienhard, Eurovision legend Peter Reber and television presenter Nik Hartmann will all be judging the songs, however televoting will be used to select the winner. “Die grosse Entscheidungs Show”, the first time that the Swiss public will be able to vote on their Eurovision entry since 2004, will take place in two days time, beginning at 20:00 CET.
- ESC Daily

„Coole Schule“ hat seit 2007 bereits mehr als 300 Schulen besucht, um sie innovativ – mit dem Besuch einer Sängerin oder Band - für Fremdsprachen zu begeistern. Zwischen dem 11. und 29. Juni organisiert „Coole Schule“ wieder einen kostenlosen Besuch von Sarah Burgess, USA, für die Englisch-Lektion.


www.cooleschule.ch
- schul organisation

„Coole Schule“ hat seit 2007 bereits mehr als 300 Schulen besucht, um sie innovativ – mit dem Besuch einer Sängerin oder Band - für Fremdsprachen zu begeistern. Zwischen dem 11. und 29. Juni organisiert „Coole Schule“ wieder einen kostenlosen Besuch von Sarah Burgess, USA, für die Englisch-Lektion.


www.cooleschule.ch
- schul organisation

Am Montag, 7.9.09 um 7.40 Uhr war es soweit. Die 2. - 4. Klassen der Oberstufe Kaiseraugst erhielten Besuch von Sarah Burgess. Sie ist Teil des Projekts “Coole Schule” und hat bereits eine Single in den TopTen der US-Charts. Die etwas andere Unterrichtsstunde begeisterte Schülerinnen und Schüler zugleich.

KUF students in Kaiseraugst experienced an English lesson with a difference today when they received a visit from the young American singer, Sarah Burgess. The visit was part of the project „Coole Schule“ which aims to show students that using a foreign language, even if they do not speak it perfectly, is cool and can be fun.

Sarah, who is twenty-two years old, entered the competition „American Idol“ two years ago and won a place in the top thirty. She has recorded a top ten single in the USA and has produced an album for sale in Japan. During her three weeks stay in Switzerland she will visit sixty-five schools.

The ice was broken this morning when Sarah repeated several words, including the inevitable „Cuchichäschtli“ in Swiss German. Her first song “Untouchable“ was received enthusiastically by the audience. The text of this song forms a competition for the students who had to fill in the missing words in their copies of the text. The prize for the winner of the competition, i.e. the student with the most correct words, is a ticket for admission to Europa-Park.

After listening to Sarah perform another of her songs, „ Dangerous“, the students had the opportunity to ask her as many questions as they liked, the only condition being that they spoke in English. Sarah was happy to answer questions about her private life, her career so far and her plans for the future. She also responded to requests for more music by singing two further songs, including „Paparazzi“ by Lady GaGa.

The hour`s visit ended with an autograph session. Sarah was quickly surrounded by a large group of students who were eager to get her signature. Before she left to visit another school she posed for photographs with students.

One student spoke for everyone when he said, „It was a good lesson. Sarah is beautiful and looked so happy to be with us. She was also very friendly. Her performance was cool and she has a great voice. We wish her good luck for the future.“.
- Zurück zur Übersicht

Am Montag, 7.9.09 um 7.40 Uhr war es soweit. Die 2. - 4. Klassen der Oberstufe Kaiseraugst erhielten Besuch von Sarah Burgess. Sie ist Teil des Projekts “Coole Schule” und hat bereits eine Single in den TopTen der US-Charts. Die etwas andere Unterrichtsstunde begeisterte Schülerinnen und Schüler zugleich.

KUF students in Kaiseraugst experienced an English lesson with a difference today when they received a visit from the young American singer, Sarah Burgess. The visit was part of the project „Coole Schule“ which aims to show students that using a foreign language, even if they do not speak it perfectly, is cool and can be fun.

Sarah, who is twenty-two years old, entered the competition „American Idol“ two years ago and won a place in the top thirty. She has recorded a top ten single in the USA and has produced an album for sale in Japan. During her three weeks stay in Switzerland she will visit sixty-five schools.

The ice was broken this morning when Sarah repeated several words, including the inevitable „Cuchichäschtli“ in Swiss German. Her first song “Untouchable“ was received enthusiastically by the audience. The text of this song forms a competition for the students who had to fill in the missing words in their copies of the text. The prize for the winner of the competition, i.e. the student with the most correct words, is a ticket for admission to Europa-Park.

After listening to Sarah perform another of her songs, „ Dangerous“, the students had the opportunity to ask her as many questions as they liked, the only condition being that they spoke in English. Sarah was happy to answer questions about her private life, her career so far and her plans for the future. She also responded to requests for more music by singing two further songs, including „Paparazzi“ by Lady GaGa.

The hour`s visit ended with an autograph session. Sarah was quickly surrounded by a large group of students who were eager to get her signature. Before she left to visit another school she posed for photographs with students.

One student spoke for everyone when he said, „It was a good lesson. Sarah is beautiful and looked so happy to be with us. She was also very friendly. Her performance was cool and she has a great voice. We wish her good luck for the future.“.
- Zurück zur Übersicht

America's favorite "runaway" never made it past Hollywood during Season 6, but she has made the charts. Sarah Burgess was one of 173 contestants to make it to the all important Hollywood round for the sixth season after wowing the judges with her rendition of Blondie's "Call Me" and her sob story about her father stifling her passion for singing. Sarah has persevered, however, and her single "Dangerouz" is sitting at #33 on the ACQB Top 40 chart for the week of July 23, after peaking at #9 in June.

Sarah's debut album, One, is now out and is available at iTunes. To listen to "Dangerouz" in addition to other songs from her album, visit Sarah's official music MySpace page.

Since finishing her stint on Idol, Sarah has opened a show for Daughtry and is currently in the midst of a solo tour that ends Aug. 24.

Read more: http://www.idollive.net/2008/07/keeping-up-with-sarah-burgess.html#ixzz1wDEjVqZo - Idol Live

America's favorite "runaway" never made it past Hollywood during Season 6, but she has made the charts. Sarah Burgess was one of 173 contestants to make it to the all important Hollywood round for the sixth season after wowing the judges with her rendition of Blondie's "Call Me" and her sob story about her father stifling her passion for singing. Sarah has persevered, however, and her single "Dangerouz" is sitting at #33 on the ACQB Top 40 chart for the week of July 23, after peaking at #9 in June.

Sarah's debut album, One, is now out and is available at iTunes. To listen to "Dangerouz" in addition to other songs from her album, visit Sarah's official music MySpace page.

Since finishing her stint on Idol, Sarah has opened a show for Daughtry and is currently in the midst of a solo tour that ends Aug. 24.

Read more: http://www.idollive.net/2008/07/keeping-up-with-sarah-burgess.html#ixzz1wDEjVqZo - Idol Live

"American Idol's" Sarah Burgess Inks Record Deal, Records First Single
Tuesday September 4, 2:00 pm ET

DENVER, CO--(MARKET WIRE)--Sep 4, 2007 -- Best remembered as the auditioner whose father didn't know she had snuck out to New York, only to be awarded Idol's Golden Ticket to Hollywood, Sarah Burgess made a connection with the American public with her story of determination in the face of resistance from those not as convinced. After an emotional audition and tearful aftermath, a bond had been forged between the viewers and an emerging artist. In the months that followed, Sarah was interviewed on almost 100 radio and TV stations to relate her resonant story.

Suddenly, inexplicably, Sarah was dropped before she reached the Top 20. But it turned out to be great news. After waiting until her 19 Entertainment contract was up, PME Records helmsman Craig Patterson has moved fast. Despite interest from other labels, Patterson got Burgess to sign on the dotted line on September 27th, just three days after her Idol contract finally expired. Though the details are under wraps, the contract is an innovative one for the recording industry, giving Burgess partnership in her career, unlike standard one-sided contracts. PME is known for such contracts, having used them to the advantage of artists like jazz pianist Harold O'Neal and acclaimed singer/songwriter Kreg Viesselman.

Within days of the signing, Burgess was opening for Daughtry and Day of Fire at the Colorado State Fair. "We couldn't have been happier with the job she did," explains Patterson. "She tore that place apart."

The same week, Burgess was at PME recording her first single, "Didn't Matter That," for release worldwide on September 20th, accompanied by a massive radio, Internet, and press push. The single was written by Mikal Blue and Colbie Caillat. Mastered by Herb Powers, Jr. (Justin Timberlake, Mariah Carey), the single is an irresistibly catchy modern Pop/R&B kissoff, demonstrating a girl's power of independence. Included on the single is a stunning rendition of Gerry Rafferty's "Whatever's Written In Your Heart," an almost-forgotten tune originally heard on the album "City to City."

Sarah's solo album, "One," is set to be released November 30th. Some heavy-hitting session players are recording for the album, including Greg Mathieson (Christina Aguilera, Barbra Streisand), Doug Jackson (Ambrosia, Kenny Loggins), and the world-renowned Philharmonika Bulgaria, recorded in Sofia, Bulgaria.

On the Web:

Sarah Burgess' "American Idol" audition: YouTube - Sarah Burgess AI Audition

MySpace, with sneak preview of "Didn't Matter That": MySpace.com - Sarah Burgess Music - Pennsylvania - Pop - www.myspace.com/sarahburgessmusicdotcom

Official Homepage: Sarah Burgess - Official Website

"American Idol's" Sarah Burgess Inks Record Deal, Records First Single: Financial News - Yahoo! Finance - Market Wire

"American Idol's" Sarah Burgess Inks Record Deal, Records First Single
Tuesday September 4, 2:00 pm ET

DENVER, CO--(MARKET WIRE)--Sep 4, 2007 -- Best remembered as the auditioner whose father didn't know she had snuck out to New York, only to be awarded Idol's Golden Ticket to Hollywood, Sarah Burgess made a connection with the American public with her story of determination in the face of resistance from those not as convinced. After an emotional audition and tearful aftermath, a bond had been forged between the viewers and an emerging artist. In the months that followed, Sarah was interviewed on almost 100 radio and TV stations to relate her resonant story.

Suddenly, inexplicably, Sarah was dropped before she reached the Top 20. But it turned out to be great news. After waiting until her 19 Entertainment contract was up, PME Records helmsman Craig Patterson has moved fast. Despite interest from other labels, Patterson got Burgess to sign on the dotted line on September 27th, just three days after her Idol contract finally expired. Though the details are under wraps, the contract is an innovative one for the recording industry, giving Burgess partnership in her career, unlike standard one-sided contracts. PME is known for such contracts, having used them to the advantage of artists like jazz pianist Harold O'Neal and acclaimed singer/songwriter Kreg Viesselman.

Within days of the signing, Burgess was opening for Daughtry and Day of Fire at the Colorado State Fair. "We couldn't have been happier with the job she did," explains Patterson. "She tore that place apart."

The same week, Burgess was at PME recording her first single, "Didn't Matter That," for release worldwide on September 20th, accompanied by a massive radio, Internet, and press push. The single was written by Mikal Blue and Colbie Caillat. Mastered by Herb Powers, Jr. (Justin Timberlake, Mariah Carey), the single is an irresistibly catchy modern Pop/R&B kissoff, demonstrating a girl's power of independence. Included on the single is a stunning rendition of Gerry Rafferty's "Whatever's Written In Your Heart," an almost-forgotten tune originally heard on the album "City to City."

Sarah's solo album, "One," is set to be released November 30th. Some heavy-hitting session players are recording for the album, including Greg Mathieson (Christina Aguilera, Barbra Streisand), Doug Jackson (Ambrosia, Kenny Loggins), and the world-renowned Philharmonika Bulgaria, recorded in Sofia, Bulgaria.

On the Web:

Sarah Burgess' "American Idol" audition: YouTube - Sarah Burgess AI Audition

MySpace, with sneak preview of "Didn't Matter That": MySpace.com - Sarah Burgess Music - Pennsylvania - Pop - www.myspace.com/sarahburgessmusicdotcom

Official Homepage: Sarah Burgess - Official Website

"American Idol's" Sarah Burgess Inks Record Deal, Records First Single: Financial News - Yahoo! Finance - Market Wire

Still singing in the pain

By MATTHEW SCHOMER Journal Staff Writer

EAST PALESTINE — She may not be what the American Idol judges were looking for, but hometown heroine Sarah Burgess still has big plans and high hopes for her musical career.

Burgess, the 19-year-old graduate of East Palestine High School who had the county buzzing with anticipation after a January appearance on America’s most-watched television show, revealed she would be one of 172 finalists moving on to Hollywood, did not make the cut to the final 24, as evidenced by her tearful goodbye aired on Tuesday night’s show.

Those hoping to continue to hear her sing may get their wish. Burgess told the Morning Journal she has been in contact with Sony about the possibility of a record contract and is awaiting more feedback from the company.

She summed up her experience in Hollywood saying, “It was very amazing and very unforgettable.”

She just wants to know why none of the actual singing she did in Hollywood made it on the show, only her sendoff. She said her Hollywood performances far outshined the televised New York audition, during which she fought back tears and fears of her parents’ disapproval to impress the judges, then broke down in a phone call telling her father she was moving on to the next stage in the competition.

“Definitely my stuff in Hollywood was better,” she said. “I wasn’t nervous at all.”

If the record contract does not go through, Burgess said she plans to pursue music as a career anyway. She’s got a number of live shows lined up, including one scheduled for St. Patrick’s Day at Station Square in Pittsburgh, where she plans to sing with The Delaneys.

Oh, and one more plan if she doesn’t get the record contract. She’s going to audition for American Idol again next season.

Only this time, she said, “I’m gonna go with my dad.” - MATTHEW SCHOMER Journal Staff Writer

Still singing in the pain

By MATTHEW SCHOMER Journal Staff Writer

EAST PALESTINE — She may not be what the American Idol judges were looking for, but hometown heroine Sarah Burgess still has big plans and high hopes for her musical career.

Burgess, the 19-year-old graduate of East Palestine High School who had the county buzzing with anticipation after a January appearance on America’s most-watched television show, revealed she would be one of 172 finalists moving on to Hollywood, did not make the cut to the final 24, as evidenced by her tearful goodbye aired on Tuesday night’s show.

Those hoping to continue to hear her sing may get their wish. Burgess told the Morning Journal she has been in contact with Sony about the possibility of a record contract and is awaiting more feedback from the company.

She summed up her experience in Hollywood saying, “It was very amazing and very unforgettable.”

She just wants to know why none of the actual singing she did in Hollywood made it on the show, only her sendoff. She said her Hollywood performances far outshined the televised New York audition, during which she fought back tears and fears of her parents’ disapproval to impress the judges, then broke down in a phone call telling her father she was moving on to the next stage in the competition.

“Definitely my stuff in Hollywood was better,” she said. “I wasn’t nervous at all.”

If the record contract does not go through, Burgess said she plans to pursue music as a career anyway. She’s got a number of live shows lined up, including one scheduled for St. Patrick’s Day at Station Square in Pittsburgh, where she plans to sing with The Delaneys.

Oh, and one more plan if she doesn’t get the record contract. She’s going to audition for American Idol again next season.

Only this time, she said, “I’m gonna go with my dad.” - MATTHEW SCHOMER Journal Staff Writer

EAST LIVERPOOL — The Angelworks Organization held their “Big Give” Family Fun Day at Thompson Park Saturday, in which monetary donations, as well as canned goods and toiletries, were collected for local needy families.

“It’s gone really well,” said organizer Samantha Sherwood. “If God’s hands are in it, it’s going to turn out well.”

East Liverpool Mayor Jim Swoger opened the day by speaking on how people can help their community by giving of themselves.

While the economy has made things harder for many people, “If we all volunteer a little, it can get better,” Sherwood said.

Sherwood said she and fellow organizers Diane Mason, Kitty Ward, and Ruby Weymouth first got the idea to begin their Big Give events from Oprah’s Big Give project. “She’s encouraging us to go out and help our community,” Sherwood said, adding they want “to remind people if they think they can’t do it, it only takes on person to start it. If we all work together, things can change.”

In addition to the donations of money and canned food, freezers for Point of Light and Harvest House were donated by George and Jeff Hall, as well as anonymous donors. Fresh Mark also donated 10 pounds of hot dogs to go in the freezers.

The Jubilee Fellowship Youth Group sold hot dogs and snow cones at the event, donating all proceeds to Angelworks.

Organizations like the Community Resource Center were also on hand to distribute information on what resources they offer. “Sometimes people don’t know what resources are available to them,” Sherwood said.

Med Health Services Laboratory also offered $30 passes for entire families’ blood work.

Games, face painting, a dunk tank, and craft tables were also at the event, as well as a Chinese auction with many items donated from local businesses.

Former American Idol contestant Sarah Burgess, an East Palestine native, performed at the event for an hour, featuring music from her new album “One.”

Ward thanked her sister-in-law Susan Christian for making contact with Burgess for the event, as well as for making many of the cakes and cookies. “Sarah Burgess was awesome,” Ward said. “I want to thank everybody that came. I also want to thank all the vendors.”

Sherwood said that Angelworks has also held food and toiletries drives and car washes to raise money to help needy families, as well as receiving donations for a bed, scooter, and electrical and plumbing work for local people. Sherwood added that the Family Fun Day is by no means the end of their work. “We’re definitely not done,” Sherwood said.

Sherwood said one of their next goals is to reinstate a program for school clothing vouchers for local children. “We need to be directed in the right place ... So far I have not gotten the answers I’m looking for.”

Sherwood said they are also always looking for new sponsors, financial help, and volunteers. “We’re looking for committed people to help us make some changes, to make a difference,” she said.

Angelworks is also open to nominations of needy families for assistance. “If we thank we can do something, we’ll try,” Sherwood said. “We want other communities to see it can be done ... It just takes a little cooperation and commitment to people.”

Anyone wishing to donate, volunteer, or nominate a family can contact Sherwood at 330-362-0290 or Weymouth at 330-385-7078.



Haley Lovett, 7 of East Liverpool, makes a teddy bear at the craft table at the Big Give Family Fun Day held Saturday at Thompson Park. (Photo by Wayne Maris) - Emily Scott - MJ

It appears those who have a good voice and story are the ones who make it.

By STEPHANIE UJHELYI

VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT

EAST PALESTINE — The third time was the charm for an "American Idol" hopeful from East Palestine.

Sarah Burgess was told she was Hollywood-bound after her audition for the Fox television show was broadcast Wednesday night.

Mahoning Valley residents were surprised to see Burgess on the show. But probably no more surprised than her parents were in August, when they learned their daughter went to New York to audition. She had told them that she was spending a couple of days at a friend's house in Ohio.

Burgess had unsuccessfully tried out twice before, once in Cleveland and once in Chicago. On Wednesday's broadcast, she shared her story with host Ryan Seacrest, telling of how she wanted to make her parents — who hadn't wanted her to try again — proud.

She was successful in her audition before judges Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson and guest judge Carole Bayer Sager, receiving her ticket to Hollywood.

About her performance

She was clad in a red T-shirt that read "Third Time's A Charm" and emotional about lying to her parents. Any possible bitterness from the often-cruel judges thawed before she started her rendition of Blondie's "Call Me."

Even the normally callous Cowell responded, "I like you, Sarah. You aren't the best singer we've heard, but I like you."

Jackson liked that she put a different slant on the tune and enjoyed her unique voice and tone.

Abdul thought she was extremely brave, and the entire panel gave her a "big yes."

Songwriter Bayer Sager said after Burgess exited the room, "She touched me."

After the successful audition, Seacrest called Sarah's parents for her to break the news. She told her father, Bob, that she was sorry she lied to them but earned her ticket to the next round.

On Thursday, one day after the broadcast, calls from family, friends and media outlets kept Burgess busy.

She said a lot of good people got cut that day in New York who had voices better than hers.

What does it take?

So, what makes a successful "American Idol" candidate?

From her experience, she said, it appears those who have a good voice and story are the ones who make it through the producers' round to sit before Cowell, Abdul and Jackson.

Burgess, a fashion merchandising student at Kaplan Career Institute in Pittsburgh, said she credits her maturing voice for the success in her third audition.

Looking back several months later, how do her parents feel about Burgess' little lie?

Her mother, Melody, said they were never angry; they just didn't want to see their daughter get disappointed again. "A lot of it is a matter of luck because of the sheer amount of the people trying out," she said.

"American Idol" airs Tuesday and Wednesday nights on Fox Channel 62 in Youngstown. Burgess said her next appearance on the show is expected to air in two weeks.
- The Vindicator

Remember Sarah Burgess? The young singer defied her parents in season six, attended an American Idol audition and almost made the final 12.
FOX highlighted her during a tearful call to her father.
Now, the story has a happy ending: Burgess recently landed a record deal and has released an R&B track called "Didn't Matter That." She spoke to TV Guide about it...
TVGuide.com: What's the story with "Didn't Matter That"? You're not just saying goodbye to a guy there, you're saying goodbye and good riddance!
Sarah Burgess: I wouldn't give an ex the pleasure of having it dedicated to him. [Laughs] It's just a song that I think every girl can relate to at least once in her life.
TVGuide.com: What about you? How's your love life these days?
Burgess: I actually just got married!

TVGuide.com: No way! Is your husband ready to be married to a pop star?
Burgess: He's enjoying every minute of it. He is the most supportive person in my life. He videotapes my performances, saves newspaper articlesâ?¦. He even taped every single episode of American Idol on DVD! It's so cute.
TVGuide.com: How would you describe your album, One?
Burgess: It's a unique soulful pop sound. I have so many different tastes in music. It ranges from pop to classical. So on my album, I wanted to make sure we covered everything! We got pop, soul, rock, jazz. It's such a great mixture of everything I love.
TVGuide.com: How are you going to set yourself apart from all the other young Christinas and Britneys?
Burgess: I think my individuality lies in my vocal inflections â?? I really have to believe what I'm singing in order to make the song my own. And I want to keep my clothes on! [Laughs]
TVGuide.com: Were you surprised that you didn't make the top 20 on Idol after they spent so much time on your story?
Burgess: I didn't know! I hadn't seen my audition show yet since I was in Hollywood, so I had no idea there was so much attention paid to my audition.
TVGuide.com: What was Simon Cowell like â?? evil incarnate or simply misunderstood?
Burgess: [Laughs] He was nothing but nice to me. Really! I appreciate his honesty. I even made him laugh when I told him I secretly wanted to marry Clay Aiken!
TVGuide.com: Your husband will be thrilled to hear that. So, in retrospect, are you disappointed that you didn't go further on Idol or relieved that you won't have to be "Idol this" and "Idol that" for the rest of your life?
Burgess: I don't know how to answer that. I mean, I'm disappointed because I would have liked to have stayed on the show to see how far America would've voted to keep me on. But I'm also relieved because so much is happening for me now. I mean, I just opened for Daughtry â?? I can't be too sad!


Read more tv spoilers at: http://www.tvfanatic.com/2007/09/a-happy-ending-for-sarah-burgess/#ixzz1wDArzly6 - TV Fanatic

Remember Sarah Burgess? The young singer defied her parents in season six, attended an American Idol audition and almost made the final 12.
FOX highlighted her during a tearful call to her father.
Now, the story has a happy ending: Burgess recently landed a record deal and has released an R&B track called "Didn't Matter That." She spoke to TV Guide about it...
TVGuide.com: What's the story with "Didn't Matter That"? You're not just saying goodbye to a guy there, you're saying goodbye and good riddance!
Sarah Burgess: I wouldn't give an ex the pleasure of having it dedicated to him. [Laughs] It's just a song that I think every girl can relate to at least once in her life.
TVGuide.com: What about you? How's your love life these days?
Burgess: I actually just got married!

TVGuide.com: No way! Is your husband ready to be married to a pop star?
Burgess: He's enjoying every minute of it. He is the most supportive person in my life. He videotapes my performances, saves newspaper articlesâ?¦. He even taped every single episode of American Idol on DVD! It's so cute.
TVGuide.com: How would you describe your album, One?
Burgess: It's a unique soulful pop sound. I have so many different tastes in music. It ranges from pop to classical. So on my album, I wanted to make sure we covered everything! We got pop, soul, rock, jazz. It's such a great mixture of everything I love.
TVGuide.com: How are you going to set yourself apart from all the other young Christinas and Britneys?
Burgess: I think my individuality lies in my vocal inflections â?? I really have to believe what I'm singing in order to make the song my own. And I want to keep my clothes on! [Laughs]
TVGuide.com: Were you surprised that you didn't make the top 20 on Idol after they spent so much time on your story?
Burgess: I didn't know! I hadn't seen my audition show yet since I was in Hollywood, so I had no idea there was so much attention paid to my audition.
TVGuide.com: What was Simon Cowell like â?? evil incarnate or simply misunderstood?
Burgess: [Laughs] He was nothing but nice to me. Really! I appreciate his honesty. I even made him laugh when I told him I secretly wanted to marry Clay Aiken!
TVGuide.com: Your husband will be thrilled to hear that. So, in retrospect, are you disappointed that you didn't go further on Idol or relieved that you won't have to be "Idol this" and "Idol that" for the rest of your life?
Burgess: I don't know how to answer that. I mean, I'm disappointed because I would have liked to have stayed on the show to see how far America would've voted to keep me on. But I'm also relieved because so much is happening for me now. I mean, I just opened for Daughtry â?? I can't be too sad!


Read more tv spoilers at: http://www.tvfanatic.com/2007/09/a-happy-ending-for-sarah-burgess/#ixzz1wDArzly6 - TV Fanatic

Sarah Burgess - One
2008, PME Records

You may remember Sarah Burgess as a Hollywood-bound contestant from American Idol (2007). She got a golden ticket from the judges but then a quick ticket home from Hollywood. The issue wasn't a lack of talent but of perhaps a lack of polish at that time. Sarah Burgess has a pleasant voice to listen to, and with the right material could be quite successful. One is an ambitious step forward, but it begs the question of whether this is the right material for Sarah Burgess.

Sarah is at her best on Heart Of Me and Whatever's Written In Your Heart, where she can lay down all the pretense of the pop-shop sound of much of One. Unfortunately these two songs are buried at the end of One, and many listeners may never get there. If you are looking for the sort of pre-packaged post-Britney pop/dance regurgitation, then One is for you. If you are looking for the musicality and voice that Sarah Burgess is capable of, then you look to the last two tracks and hope for the next record.

One is not a bad album for what it is, but it's disappointing because it could be so much more. Its formulaic pop/dance music targeted for pop radio/MTV. Like all singers, Sarah Burgess' voice has its flaws and limitations. The production here is faulted for highlighting them rather than working through song choice and sound development to maximize her sound. This is not in any way a negative criticism of Ms. Burgess - this one is wholly on the production team.

For what it's worth, it sounds like Sarah Burgess might have found her sound, her comfort zone, on the last two tracks here. Hopefully this will open doors for her musically for future projects, because she really is quite talented and a pleasure to listen to. As for One, it is listenable, but not memorable outside of the last two songs.

Rating: 2 Stars (Out of 5) - 4 Stars out of 5 for the last 2 tracks.

You can learn more about Sarah Burgess at www.sarahburgessmusic.com. You can currently download the album One at Amazon.com or through iTunes. - Wildey's World

Every now and then a song comes along that is nothing more than cotton candy but if you're super lucky, that cotton candy has a bite that you weren't expecting. On the surface you could perceive Sassy as nothing more than that; a super poppy bubble gum track that leaves you still wanting more but if you dig a little deeper, Sarah's vocals on this track give it a much needed infusion of depth. I love bubble gum pop more than most people and this song does not let me down. From the beginning to the end, you just want to bob your head and move your feet. Sarah is another in the long line of artists from American Idol that actually has talent and should be more in the spotlight than she is. And with a track like Sassy, she needs mainstream radio play. - Pop, Rinse, Repeat

Every now and then a song comes along that is nothing more than cotton candy but if you're super lucky, that cotton candy has a bite that you weren't expecting. On the surface you could perceive Sassy as nothing more than that; a super poppy bubble gum track that leaves you still wanting more but if you dig a little deeper, Sarah's vocals on this track give it a much needed infusion of depth. I love bubble gum pop more than most people and this song does not let me down. From the beginning to the end, you just want to bob your head and move your feet. Sarah is another in the long line of artists from American Idol that actually has talent and should be more in the spotlight than she is. And with a track like Sassy, she needs mainstream radio play. - Pop, Rinse, Repeat

Sarah Burgess...where have you been all my life? She's got a sort of Kat Graham/Neon Hitch mixed with Jessie and The Toy Boys vibe about her, which I love! A new(ish) video for a song called "Sassy" was recently sent to me and while I've only watched it a couple of times, I can already safely say that I'm obsessed with this girl. The Ohio-born and current Pittsburgh resident, 24 year old Sarah Burgess first grabbed the attention of American television audiences during season six of American Idol. Burgess let it slip during her audition that her father was vehemently against Sarah having a music career, yet unable to stop her from playing hookie and auditioning in New York City. Unfortunately, Burgess' Idol dreams were short lived when she was cut during Hollywood Week. Fortunately for Burgess, her time on Idol wasn't for naught as she was quickly snatched up by indie label PME Records, with whom she released a couple of singles including the Colbie Caillat/Mikal Blue-penned "Didn't Matter That" and "Dangerouz," which received some national airplay in 2008 and supposedly was a top 40 hit for the singer (according to Wikipedia, however not according to Billboard archives). Following the release of her singles, Burgess dropped her debut album, One in June of 2008.

Parting ways with PME Records in 2009, Burgess has since signed with Swiss label, Solymar Music AG based out of Zurich in association with Iceberg Records and is in the midst of recording her sophomore record, presumably which will include "Sassy" (see video BELOW). According to posts on her blog, Burgess says that the new album will be more "edgy rock" mixed with pop, a slight departure from the more mainstream sound of her debut album. In 2010 Burgess entered into yet another competition, this time to compete on Swiss television for the chance at representing the country in the Eurovision Song Contest with her song "Just Me." Where Sarah Burgess' love for Switzerland came from, I'm really not quite sure, but the country seemed to embrace her as she made it into the finals, ultimately losing out to Anna Rossinelli who received 23.93% of the national vote (Burgess only received 7.7%).

The video for "Sassy" was uploaded onto the Iceberg Records YouTube channel November 11th. According to the YouTube page, the track was written and produced by Måns Ek (Sarah Connor) and co-written by Charlie Mason (Miley Cyrus, Ashley Tisdale). Despite having a homemade feel to it, the video is packed full of energy, spunk and oh yes...lots of sass. Looking forward to hearing more from Sarah Burgess. Download her first album, One, on U.S. iTunes HERE. - Music Is My King Sized Bed

Sarah Burgess is nineteen years old and is from East Palestine, Ohio.
Before her auditions, Sarah said that her parents didn’t know she was
there. Sarah also said that her parents didn’t want her to audition,
especially her father, and they didn’t understand how much this meant
to her.


For her New York audition, Sarah Burgess sang “Call Me.” Simon Cowell said “I like you, Sarah. I like the fact that you’ve just done this. You’re not the best singer that we’ve heard. You’re not the best singer in this competition, but I think you are a tryer, and I don’t think you have a bad voice, and I like you.” Randy Jackson said “I actually like you too. I think that you’ve got a different sounding voice. I like it’s kind of a little covered, but I kinda like it. It’s a different kind of tone, and I like that you want to be different, I like that.” Carol Bayer Sager said “Yeah, I do too, and I just want to be home at night watching and have your father go ‘I can’t believe it’ and see you moving ahead.” Paula Abdul said “I’m very proud of you. I think that you are one brave girl.” All four judges agreed on sending Sarah to Hollywood.

After the auditions, Sarah Burgess called her father. Sarah asked her dad not to be mad at her, and her dad responded by asking “Who is this?” After clarifying who she was to her dad, Sarah told him that she had gone to New York to try out for American Idol and had made it to Hollywood. Instead of being mad, her father told her, “I’m not mad, that’s great.”

Reality TV - Reality TV Magazine

Sarah Burgess is nineteen years old and is from East Palestine, Ohio.
Before her auditions, Sarah said that her parents didn’t know she was
there. Sarah also said that her parents didn’t want her to audition,
especially her father, and they didn’t understand how much this meant
to her.


For her New York audition, Sarah Burgess sang “Call Me.” Simon Cowell said “I like you, Sarah. I like the fact that you’ve just done this. You’re not the best singer that we’ve heard. You’re not the best singer in this competition, but I think you are a tryer, and I don’t think you have a bad voice, and I like you.” Randy Jackson said “I actually like you too. I think that you’ve got a different sounding voice. I like it’s kind of a little covered, but I kinda like it. It’s a different kind of tone, and I like that you want to be different, I like that.” Carol Bayer Sager said “Yeah, I do too, and I just want to be home at night watching and have your father go ‘I can’t believe it’ and see you moving ahead.” Paula Abdul said “I’m very proud of you. I think that you are one brave girl.” All four judges agreed on sending Sarah to Hollywood.

After the auditions, Sarah Burgess called her father. Sarah asked her dad not to be mad at her, and her dad responded by asking “Who is this?” After clarifying who she was to her dad, Sarah told him that she had gone to New York to try out for American Idol and had made it to Hollywood. Instead of being mad, her father told her, “I’m not mad, that’s great.”

Reality TV - Reality TV Magazine

Sarah Burgess updated fans on her blog at MySpace on Friday (December 12). The Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania pop singer tells readers:

Just wanted to give you a few updates on what I’ve been up too! These past few months I’ve been pretty busy with shows, In-store appearances, interviews, and all that good stuff. In the next few months I’m going to be MIA! I’m starting to work on writing my own songs, I’ve been inspired by a lot these past few years and I want to see where the writing takes me. I’ve already written two songs, which I think have great potential. I really want my fans and everyone else who listens to my music to know, what’s deep in my soul, what I go through everyday, my challenges, my hopes, fears. I really want to start opening myself up a lot more so people who don’t already know me, get too.

That being said I’m also in the process of putting together a book. It’s going to be more like short stories of my life. Everything from when I was a little girl up until now, my travels and experiences that goes along with it. The fun part is everyone gets to be involved with what stories they like. Once a week I’ll be posting new stories up on my blog and website. I would love to hear feedback.

Check out the entire post here. - POP dirt

Best remembered as the auditioner whose father didn't know she had snuck out to New York, only to be awarded Idol's Golden Ticket to Hollywood, Sarah Burgess made a connection with the American public with her story of determination in the face of resistance from those not as convinced. After an emotional audition and tearful aftermath, a bond had been forged between the viewers and an emerging artist. In the months that followed, Sarah was interviewed on almost 100 radio and TV stations to relate her resonant story.

Suddenly, inexplicably, Sarah was dropped before she reached the Top 20. But it turned out to be great news. After waiting until her 19 Entertainment contract was up, PME Records helmsman Craig Patterson has moved fast. Despite interest from other labels, Patterson got Burgess to sign on the dotted line on September 27th, just three days after her Idol contract finally expired. Though the details are under wraps, the contract is an innovative one for the recording industry, giving Burgess partnership in her career, unlike standard one-sided contracts. PME is known for such contracts, having used them to the advantage of artists like jazz pianist Harold O'Neal and acclaimed singer/songwriter Kreg Viesselman.

Within days of the signing, Burgess was opening for Daughtry and Day of Fire at the Colorado State Fair. "We couldn't have been happier with the job she did," explains Patterson. "She tore that place apart."

The same week, Burgess was at PME recording her first single, "Didn't Matter That," for release worldwide on September 20th, accompanied by a massive radio, Internet, and press push. The single was written by Mikal Blue and Colbie Caillat. Mastered by Herb Powers, Jr. (Justin Timberlake, Mariah Carey), the single is an irresistibly catchy modern Pop/R&B kissoff, demonstrating a girl's power of independence. Included on the single is a stunning rendition of Gerry Rafferty's "Whatever's Written In Your Heart," an almost-forgotten tune originally heard on the album "City to City."

Sarah's solo album, "One," is set to be released November 30th. Some heavy-hitting session players are recording for the album, including Greg Mathieson (Christina Aguilera, Barbra Streisand), Doug Jackson (Ambrosia, Kenny Loggins), and the world-renowned Philharmonika Bulgaria, recorded in Sofia, Bulgaria.

On the Web:

Sarah Burgess' "American Idol" audition: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-jKSVQDWhow

MySpace, with sneak preview of "Didn't Matter That": www.myspace.com/sarahburgessmusicdotcom

Official Homepage: www.sarahburgessmusic.com - Market Wire. FindArticles

Best remembered as the auditioner whose father didn't know she had snuck out to New York, only to be awarded Idol's Golden Ticket to Hollywood, Sarah Burgess made a connection with the American public with her story of determination in the face of resistance from those not as convinced. After an emotional audition and tearful aftermath, a bond had been forged between the viewers and an emerging artist. In the months that followed, Sarah was interviewed on almost 100 radio and TV stations to relate her resonant story.

Suddenly, inexplicably, Sarah was dropped before she reached the Top 20. But it turned out to be great news. After waiting until her 19 Entertainment contract was up, PME Records helmsman Craig Patterson has moved fast. Despite interest from other labels, Patterson got Burgess to sign on the dotted line on September 27th, just three days after her Idol contract finally expired. Though the details are under wraps, the contract is an innovative one for the recording industry, giving Burgess partnership in her career, unlike standard one-sided contracts. PME is known for such contracts, having used them to the advantage of artists like jazz pianist Harold O'Neal and acclaimed singer/songwriter Kreg Viesselman.

Within days of the signing, Burgess was opening for Daughtry and Day of Fire at the Colorado State Fair. "We couldn't have been happier with the job she did," explains Patterson. "She tore that place apart."

The same week, Burgess was at PME recording her first single, "Didn't Matter That," for release worldwide on September 20th, accompanied by a massive radio, Internet, and press push. The single was written by Mikal Blue and Colbie Caillat. Mastered by Herb Powers, Jr. (Justin Timberlake, Mariah Carey), the single is an irresistibly catchy modern Pop/R&B kissoff, demonstrating a girl's power of independence. Included on the single is a stunning rendition of Gerry Rafferty's "Whatever's Written In Your Heart," an almost-forgotten tune originally heard on the album "City to City."

Sarah's solo album, "One," is set to be released November 30th. Some heavy-hitting session players are recording for the album, including Greg Mathieson (Christina Aguilera, Barbra Streisand), Doug Jackson (Ambrosia, Kenny Loggins), and the world-renowned Philharmonika Bulgaria, recorded in Sofia, Bulgaria.

On the Web:

Sarah Burgess' "American Idol" audition: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-jKSVQDWhow

MySpace, with sneak preview of "Didn't Matter That": www.myspace.com/sarahburgessmusicdotcom

Official Homepage: www.sarahburgessmusic.com - Market Wire. FindArticles

www.CooleSchule.com - 4-Teens Magazin

Sarah, Do you visit Switzerland for the first time?
Yes! This will be my very first time to Switzerland! I'm really excited and honored to be coming! This is the coolest thing that has happen to me so far!

What do you know about Switzerland?
Honestly, I don't know too much. I'm trying not to read up on the country very much because I want to be amazed with something new everyday! I've heard about how wonderful the chocolate is in Switzerland and I can't wait to try it!! I'm a sucker for chocolate!!

You are only 22 years old. Is it your plan to make music to your main profession or is it just a “current event”?
Singing has always been a part of me, it is who I am. I'm working hard everyday to make singing a profession. When I feel sad, happy, angry, excited...I sing!! The best advice I can give anyone is decide what you want to do or who you want to be and don't be afraid to go after it!

Most people in the US know you from „American Idol“. Many people say, these kind of casting shows bring the winners instant fame only and soon they get forgotten. What do you think about that?
I think some of that is absolutely true!! I was lucky in a way not to be in the finals, because some of those singers will NEVER be able to break away from the Idol name. It's very hard to be known as something else, that's why I'm working hard to be a successful artist on my own, and not with the Idol name backing me. I also think some of the people that go on Idol just give up after they get eliminated. It really makes me sad when that happens. Most people don't get the opportunities that I did either - right away I was signed by a label, put out a CD, and had a top ten hit. Now I've moved on working with new management and getting ready to record my next CD! My personality won't let me stop pursuing my dream or let me be forgotten...that's just not who I am. :-)

When you went alone to the casting in New York (where you finally got the golden ticket to Hollywood), your parents did not know about it (you told them that you are staying at your friend’s house). Do you personify a little bit the “bad girl” image?
No, I don't think so. I was the oldest sibling and nineteen at the time, my parents were overprotective and had a hard time letting me grow up. I had to prove to them and to myself that I was destined to become a singer, and that I would go to great lengths to do it. I was always my best support system, I was my own cheerleader, and I wasn't going to put off my dreams any longer. I wanted to put them to a reality. I felt being on my own and doing something for myself made me grow up as a person, I found out who I was. My parents are now very accepting and encouraging of my dreams, because now they know just how possible it really is. I think I lost the bad girl image as soon as I cried on national Television!

With „Cool School“ you will visit 65 schools during 3 weeks. Did you liked to go to school?
I loved all music-related activities, of course! However, I was not one of the best students, and I often struggled with other subjects. Many of my classmates gave me a hard time because of my high aspirations, as well, which made going to class miserable at times. In the end it has made me a stronger person.

What do you expect from the students you will visit at school?
I'm expecting everything because I don't want to be surprised!! Haha! I think the students will be very welcoming and will have a lot of questions for me! This is an exciting experience for me and them, together we'll make it a great time! I can't wait to meet all of the super cool students in Switzerland!


Du möchtest immer alle News zu Sarah Burgess erfahren? Sende einfach eine E-Mail mit dem Betreff "Sarah Burgess", deinem Namen und deiner Postadresse an newsletter@cooleschule.ch und du bekommst alle
Informationen wie z.B. wann Sarah wieder in die Schweiz kommt für Auftritte, CD-Veröffentlichungen etc. - Coole Schule

Sarah, Do you visit Switzerland for the first time?
Yes! This will be my very first time to Switzerland! I'm really excited and honored to be coming! This is the coolest thing that has happen to me so far!

What do you know about Switzerland?
Honestly, I don't know too much. I'm trying not to read up on the country very much because I want to be amazed with something new everyday! I've heard about how wonderful the chocolate is in Switzerland and I can't wait to try it!! I'm a sucker for chocolate!!

You are only 22 years old. Is it your plan to make music to your main profession or is it just a “current event”?
Singing has always been a part of me, it is who I am. I'm working hard everyday to make singing a profession. When I feel sad, happy, angry, excited...I sing!! The best advice I can give anyone is decide what you want to do or who you want to be and don't be afraid to go after it!

Most people in the US know you from „American Idol“. Many people say, these kind of casting shows bring the winners instant fame only and soon they get forgotten. What do you think about that?
I think some of that is absolutely true!! I was lucky in a way not to be in the finals, because some of those singers will NEVER be able to break away from the Idol name. It's very hard to be known as something else, that's why I'm working hard to be a successful artist on my own, and not with the Idol name backing me. I also think some of the people that go on Idol just give up after they get eliminated. It really makes me sad when that happens. Most people don't get the opportunities that I did either - right away I was signed by a label, put out a CD, and had a top ten hit. Now I've moved on working with new management and getting ready to record my next CD! My personality won't let me stop pursuing my dream or let me be forgotten...that's just not who I am. :-)

When you went alone to the casting in New York (where you finally got the golden ticket to Hollywood), your parents did not know about it (you told them that you are staying at your friend’s house). Do you personify a little bit the “bad girl” image?
No, I don't think so. I was the oldest sibling and nineteen at the time, my parents were overprotective and had a hard time letting me grow up. I had to prove to them and to myself that I was destined to become a singer, and that I would go to great lengths to do it. I was always my best support system, I was my own cheerleader, and I wasn't going to put off my dreams any longer. I wanted to put them to a reality. I felt being on my own and doing something for myself made me grow up as a person, I found out who I was. My parents are now very accepting and encouraging of my dreams, because now they know just how possible it really is. I think I lost the bad girl image as soon as I cried on national Television!

With „Cool School“ you will visit 65 schools during 3 weeks. Did you liked to go to school?
I loved all music-related activities, of course! However, I was not one of the best students, and I often struggled with other subjects. Many of my classmates gave me a hard time because of my high aspirations, as well, which made going to class miserable at times. In the end it has made me a stronger person.

What do you expect from the students you will visit at school?
I'm expecting everything because I don't want to be surprised!! Haha! I think the students will be very welcoming and will have a lot of questions for me! This is an exciting experience for me and them, together we'll make it a great time! I can't wait to meet all of the super cool students in Switzerland!


Du möchtest immer alle News zu Sarah Burgess erfahren? Sende einfach eine E-Mail mit dem Betreff "Sarah Burgess", deinem Namen und deiner Postadresse an newsletter@cooleschule.ch und du bekommst alle
Informationen wie z.B. wann Sarah wieder in die Schweiz kommt für Auftritte, CD-Veröffentlichungen etc. - Coole Schule

Oct 31, 2008 (Beaver County Times - McClatchy-Tribune Information Services via COMTEX) --
Her golden ticket-earning performance on "American Idol" is a hazy memory.
Now, Sarah Burgess is relying on other fashionable marketing tools, like YouTube and MySpace, to take her music to the masses.

The plan seems to be working, as Burgess is inked to a label and getting fan feedback from coast-to-coast.

The 21-year-old Beaver Falls resident hopes to widen her fan base with three local events in the next nine days.

On Halloween night she films a music video at Club Zoo in the Strip District. Costumed or otherwise, Zoo-goers between the ages of 15 and 21 are invited to appear in the video for "I'm So Crushed," a song about unrequited love with a surprise ending.

"I'm So Crushed" appears on Burgess' first full-length album, "One," which she will unveil Saturday with a performance at the FYE store at Southern Park Mall in Boardman, Ohio. On Nov. 8, she will give a similar performance at the Beaver Valley Mall. Both shows start at 5 p.m. and will last roughly an hour, followed by meet-and-greet sessions.

Burgess will pitch the "I'm So Crushed" video to MTV, which previously posted on its Web site her first single, "Dangerouz".

The "Dangerouz" video, with it cheerleader motif, has 14,400-plus visits on YouTube.com, the video site on which Burgess has launched her own channel. A typical anonymous fan posting under her "Dangerouz" video: "My friend just sent this to me... and I have to say I so gotta put this on my iPod."

Burgess's emotionally rendered brand of dance-pop will resonate with many in the iPod generation, though her Colorado-based label, PME Records, also steered the singer toward a few Adult Contemporary tracks skewed to listeners her parents' age.

And so "One" could simultaneously appeal to different demographics "which is really cool, because I love all types and styles of music," said Burgess, who ranks Fleetwood Mac as her favorite band. "That's how I like it. I don't want to be cornered into one category."

The 12 songs on her debut album were written by others; though she's already penning lyrics for her sophomore album. PME has helped land her a few prominent shows, including a Pittsburgh area appearance on VH1's "Save the Music" tour, and a gig in Colorado as a warm-up act for former "American Idol" star Chris Daughtry.

"American Idol" is still Burgess' biggest claim to fame. It was Season Six, when the then-teenaged resident of East Palestine, Ohio, snuck away from home and drove to New York, auditioning for "Idol's" famed panel of Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul. Burgess' teary-eyed account of how her father didn't want her to audition touched the hearts of the judges -- even the notoriously boorish Cowell -- who sent her to Los Angeles, as one of the program's gold-ticket winning finalists. Her TV time in L.A. lasted just a few seconds, though it was enough to launch a singing career.

Still working part-time hours at Fire Mountain restaurant in Chippewa, Burgess comes across as someone who is grounded but ambitious; a young woman who appreciates her "Idol" opportunity but doesn't want to rest on that laurel.

"I owe everything I have to 'American Idol' so I don't want to say I'm distancing myself from it, but I am growing up and doing things independently now," Burgess said. "My career didn't stop with Idol."

One of her next steps is to forge a backing band via auditions she will host at the Father Ryan Events Center in McKees Rocks. Musicians can request an audition time by visiting her MySpace site at www.myspace.com/sarahburgessmusicdotcom - Beaver County Times

PINE TWP. -- Sarah Burgess didn't pay attention much to this season's "American Idol".
"I was upset there weren't more Beaver County people chosen, or even more people from Pittsburgh," Burgess said.
In 2007, Burgess, of Beaver Falls, became the first Beaver County singer to advance to "American Idol's" Hollywood round. She didn't last long there, but used her "Idol" credentials to get a record deal that spurred a single, "Dangerouz," that reached No. 40 on Billboard's U.S. Hot 100 chart.
Burgess, 24, has since cultivated a following in Switzerland, where she will return next month for a tour that also visits Germany and France.
But first the pop singer will perform a Sunday show for a cause very dear to her heart.
Burgess will entertain at the Dive Bar & Grille in Pine Township (Wexford), headlining a four-hour benefit show inspired by her 5-year-old brother, Jacob, who was diagnosed last month with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD).
Jacob seems like an energetic, healthy child now, but like others afflicted with DMD, his muscles are deteriorating at an alarming rate.
"By the time Jacob is a teenager, he will have lost his ability to walk and will eventually lose all muscle function in his body," Burgess said. Like all others with the disease, mostly males, "he will die from heart or respiratory failure in his late teens or early 20's," she said.
"I really just want to bring awareness to this deadly disease and help my brother any way I can," Burgess said.
Burgess' family, including Jacob, now live in Nashville, and will attend the fund-raiser show, which also includes acoustic performances by the bands FiveUnder, Doz Guyz and Chippewa Township rocker Drew Pinchotti, who is the guitarist in a band fronted by Billy Beck from the Ohio Players ("Love Rollercoaster.")
Owners of the Dive Bar, located in the same plaza as Panera Bread, are friends of the family.
Burgess said her set will include originals and covers. Her new songs "are definitely pop," she said. "They're very catchy, with hooky lines. Definitely European sounding."
Upbeat music that on Sunday will raise awareness for battling a lethal disease.
"Right now the goal is to get Jacob the treatment needed and to exhaust all of the options to find a cure for Duchenne, or at least slow it down significantly, before it has a chance to take him from our lives." - Scott Tady - Beaver County Times

Sarah Burgess is the typical girl next door... with an incredible voice. This 19-year old beauty from Ohio made it to the Hollywood week of the season 6 American Idol auditions, and she just might be the next American Idol.
Sarah remembers, "Ever since the show aired its first season, I said, 'Someday, that'll be me!" And she might just be right! When Sarah sang in front of celebrity judges, they were impressed with her voice and her passion. As Sarah commented, "Like Simon said, I'm a tryer, and I'm going to keep on trying to be the next American Idol."

When we at home watched the American Idol auditions, we only caught a brief glimpse of what contestants endured. When Sarah Burgess auditioned in New York City this past summer, it had been a two-week journey by the time she sang in front of Randy, Paula, and Simon.

First, she waited in line for hours upon hours, just to get a wristband to come back the next day. When she came back the next day, producers liked her and sent her on to the next round, the following day. This time, after a very long day, executive producers gave the go ahead for an audition in front of the celebrity judges... two weeks later. All the while, Sarah hid her quest from her father, whom she said would be very upset if he knew what she was up to.

If you saw the New York auditions on television, you might remember Ryan Seacrest supporting Sarah as she called her father, who didn't even know she was in New York. When Sarah explained that she had skipped school to audition, and gave him the good news that she was going to Hollywood, he was not upset at all! Since the audition, Dad and other family members have been extremely supportive.

Sarah believes that, if she does make the finals, her family and friends will continue to support her one hundred percent of the way. Even if she does not make the finals, she feels that her exposure on American Idol could really help to further her musical career.

So will Sarah be the next American Idol? Hopefully that will be up to us to decide. As Sarah remarked, "I'm not trying to be someone I'm not. I'm just Sarah Burgess. I have a voice that I believe is very different from others, and I think American will recognize it." - Nicole Mohr, Yahoo! Contributor Network

Sarah Burgess is the typical girl next door... with an incredible voice. This 19-year old beauty from Ohio made it to the Hollywood week of the season 6 American Idol auditions, and she just might be the next American Idol.
Sarah remembers, "Ever since the show aired its first season, I said, 'Someday, that'll be me!" And she might just be right! When Sarah sang in front of celebrity judges, they were impressed with her voice and her passion. As Sarah commented, "Like Simon said, I'm a tryer, and I'm going to keep on trying to be the next American Idol."

When we at home watched the American Idol auditions, we only caught a brief glimpse of what contestants endured. When Sarah Burgess auditioned in New York City this past summer, it had been a two-week journey by the time she sang in front of Randy, Paula, and Simon.

First, she waited in line for hours upon hours, just to get a wristband to come back the next day. When she came back the next day, producers liked her and sent her on to the next round, the following day. This time, after a very long day, executive producers gave the go ahead for an audition in front of the celebrity judges... two weeks later. All the while, Sarah hid her quest from her father, whom she said would be very upset if he knew what she was up to.

If you saw the New York auditions on television, you might remember Ryan Seacrest supporting Sarah as she called her father, who didn't even know she was in New York. When Sarah explained that she had skipped school to audition, and gave him the good news that she was going to Hollywood, he was not upset at all! Since the audition, Dad and other family members have been extremely supportive.

Sarah believes that, if she does make the finals, her family and friends will continue to support her one hundred percent of the way. Even if she does not make the finals, she feels that her exposure on American Idol could really help to further her musical career.

So will Sarah be the next American Idol? Hopefully that will be up to us to decide. As Sarah remarked, "I'm not trying to be someone I'm not. I'm just Sarah Burgess. I have a voice that I believe is very different from others, and I think American will recognize it." - Nicole Mohr, Yahoo! Contributor Network

At this point, you may not be able to tell Chris Richardson from Chris Rock, but chances are, you still vividly remember American Idol 6's Sarah Burgess — and she didn't even make the top 20. As soon as she'd tearfully told Ryan Seacrest that she'd lied to her disapproving dad in order to get away long enough to audition, the vocal powerhouse had every teenager who'd ever rebelled in her corner. And now they really have a reason to cheer her on: Although she was cut just shy of the top 20 finalists, she's landed herself a record deal, and this week she's released her first single, a so-catchy-it-oughta-be-criminal R&B track called "Didn't Matter That" (mastered by Herb Powers Jr. of Justin and Mariah fame). Needless to say, she's stopped crying.

TVGuide.com: What's the story with "Didn't Matter That"? You're not just saying goodbye to a guy there, you're saying goodbye and good riddance!
Sarah Burgess: I wouldn't give an ex the pleasure of having it dedicated to him. [Laughs] It's just a song that I think every girl can relate to at least once in her life.

TVGuide.com: What about you? How's your love life these days?
Burgess: I actually just got married!

TVGuide.com: No way! Is your husband ready to be married to a pop star?
Burgess: He's enjoying every minute of it. He is the most supportive person in my life. He videotapes my performances, saves newspaper articles…. He even taped every single episode of American Idol on DVD! It's so cute.

TVGuide.com: What about your parents? Now that your whole life is changing, are they supportive? Scared? Excited?
Burgess: More like confused! I swear, every day I have to explain the recording process, how things will happen. But they also are really excited that I finally have a shot to live my dream.

TVGuide.com: How would you describe your album, One?
Burgess: It's a unique soulful pop sound. I have so many different tastes in music. It ranges from pop to classical. So on my album, I wanted to make sure we covered everything! We got pop, soul, rock, jazz. It's such a great mixture of everything I love.

TVGuide.com: How are you going to set yourself apart from all the other young Christinas and Britneys?
Burgess: I think my individuality lies in my vocal inflections — I really have to believe what I'm singing in order to make the song my own. And I want to keep my clothes on! [Laughs]

TVGuide.com: Were you surprised that you didn't make the top 20 on Idol after they spent so much time on your story?
Burgess: I didn't know! I hadn't seen my audition show yet since I was in Hollywood, so I had no idea there was so much attention paid to my audition.

TVGuide.com: What was Simon Cowell like — evil incarnate or simply misunderstood?
Burgess: [Laughs] He was nothing but nice to me. Really! I appreciate his honesty. I even made him laugh when I told him I secretly wanted to marry Clay Aiken!

TVGuide.com: Your husband will be thrilled to hear that. So, in retrospect, are you disappointed that you didn't go further on Idol or relieved that you won't have to be "Idol this" and "Idol that" for the rest of your life?
Burgess: I don't know how to answer that. I mean, I'm disappointed because I would have liked to have stayed on the show to see how far America would've voted to keep me on. But I'm also relieved because so much is happening for me now. I mean, I just opened for Daughtry — I can't be too sad!

TVGuide.com: Do you keep up with any of the other contestants?
Burgess: Yes! Ian Bernardo.

TVGuide.com: Super-freak Ian Bernardo? You've got to be kidding.
Burgess: He definitely is one of a kind, but he's such a nice and sweet guy.

TVGuide.com: He's quite a… um, diva. What will you be like when you make it? Will you insist on having your M&Ms separated for you by color?
Burgess: No. [Laughs] But I am a shopaholic, so I figure the more famous I get, the more shopping I can do! And I'd really love to meet Christina Aguilera, Stevie Nicks and Clay Ai - TV Guide

Switzerland – She is one of the biggest hopes for Switzerland in 2011: Sarah Burgess. The former American idol contestant has entered the Swiss open online selection for the Eurovision Song Contest in Düsseldorf. Her entry “Just me” is a very promising, contemporary pop song, co-written by this year’s Grand Prix winner John Gordon (“Satellite”). You may vote for the song starting 1 November here. The Eurovision Times is very proud to offer you an exclusive interview with Sarah Burgess:

Hello Sarah, first of all thank you very much for agreeing to have this interview.

My pleasure.

Can you tell us a bit more about yourself?

I’m a 23-year-old that always wants the most out of life. I’m a girl who believes in fate, that everything happens for a reason. I believe in hard work, dedication, patience, but most of all I always believe in myself. I’m also a girl with a lot of attitude so watch out

Did you write your entry “Just me” yourself?

Yes, along with Lene Dissing and John Gordon.

Scroll down to listen to her entry!
In the song you mention a few stars, why did you choose exactly those and who would you say are your musical influences?

I chose them because they were Stars I liked, because of the qualities about them, and their songs each have some meaning to me. I also chose them because no matter what, they are THEMSELVES and that’s what the song is about. Just being who you are and not trying to change for anyone else. Being yourself is what makes you fabulous.Even though I’m not a fan of country music the Dolly Parton line I wrote is my favorite! And yes it’s true…my rack IS little. Haha!! My musical influences? Wow. I have so many. It’s funny, being in pop music people automatically stereotype you into JUST liking pop music. For me I like it all, with the exception of country. I really love Christina Aguilera. Growing up I always felt she knew what I was going through with the lyrics she wrote. I love the emotion and the power she puts behind every performance, and to me that makes her probably my biggest musical idol. I also love Elton John, Fleetwood Mac, Pat Benetar, Eminem, Tori Amos, Sarah Brightman, Styx, Amy Winehouse, Pixie Lott, La Roux, Robbie Williams, Lily Allen, Beyonce, David Bowie, The Black Keys….Oh Geez! I could seriously go on forever but I’m just going to leave it at that. As you can see, it’s quite an eclectic collection of artists.

Are you still recording your new album?

Yes. I’m still writing and still recording. I can’t wait to get back into the studio because I have about 50 pages of unused lyrics and ideas.

Honestly ^^: Did you know what the “Eurovision Song Contest” was a month ago?

I am always honest, never forget that! I actually knew a hell of a lot about Eurovision last year. I’ve been working with songwriter John Gordon for some time now and ever since Satellite was in the running of the contest I watched and read up on Eurovision. So I’m not a silly American who knows nothing about it, I actually did my research way before I knew I was even going to be entered.

Have you ever watched it and what did you like?

I really enjoy it! The only time I could actually watch it LIVE was when I was in Europe, but I always like to watch past contestants on YouTube. I really wish I could watch it LIVE in America, I think people would really love it. What do I like? The intense competition, of course!

Why should you, as an American, represent Switzerland?

feel like a part of me is Switzerland. So many of my first real experiences and life changes have come out of Switzerland, so I feel as if I am the perfect candidate to represent this small but wonderful Country. I understand how hard it is for some people to accept me as an American trying to represent them. I just want everyone to understand the deep connection I have there, musically and personally. I have so many friends that I met on the Coole Schule tour; some of these kids changed my life. Before I w - Eurovision Times

Switzerland – She is one of the biggest hopes for Switzerland in 2011: Sarah Burgess. The former American idol contestant has entered the Swiss open online selection for the Eurovision Song Contest in Düsseldorf. Her entry “Just me” is a very promising, contemporary pop song, co-written by this year’s Grand Prix winner John Gordon (“Satellite”). You may vote for the song starting 1 November here. The Eurovision Times is very proud to offer you an exclusive interview with Sarah Burgess:

Hello Sarah, first of all thank you very much for agreeing to have this interview.

My pleasure.

Can you tell us a bit more about yourself?

I’m a 23-year-old that always wants the most out of life. I’m a girl who believes in fate, that everything happens for a reason. I believe in hard work, dedication, patience, but most of all I always believe in myself. I’m also a girl with a lot of attitude so watch out

Did you write your entry “Just me” yourself?

Yes, along with Lene Dissing and John Gordon.

Scroll down to listen to her entry!
In the song you mention a few stars, why did you choose exactly those and who would you say are your musical influences?

I chose them because they were Stars I liked, because of the qualities about them, and their songs each have some meaning to me. I also chose them because no matter what, they are THEMSELVES and that’s what the song is about. Just being who you are and not trying to change for anyone else. Being yourself is what makes you fabulous.Even though I’m not a fan of country music the Dolly Parton line I wrote is my favorite! And yes it’s true…my rack IS little. Haha!! My musical influences? Wow. I have so many. It’s funny, being in pop music people automatically stereotype you into JUST liking pop music. For me I like it all, with the exception of country. I really love Christina Aguilera. Growing up I always felt she knew what I was going through with the lyrics she wrote. I love the emotion and the power she puts behind every performance, and to me that makes her probably my biggest musical idol. I also love Elton John, Fleetwood Mac, Pat Benetar, Eminem, Tori Amos, Sarah Brightman, Styx, Amy Winehouse, Pixie Lott, La Roux, Robbie Williams, Lily Allen, Beyonce, David Bowie, The Black Keys….Oh Geez! I could seriously go on forever but I’m just going to leave it at that. As you can see, it’s quite an eclectic collection of artists.

Are you still recording your new album?

Yes. I’m still writing and still recording. I can’t wait to get back into the studio because I have about 50 pages of unused lyrics and ideas.

Honestly ^^: Did you know what the “Eurovision Song Contest” was a month ago?

I am always honest, never forget that! I actually knew a hell of a lot about Eurovision last year. I’ve been working with songwriter John Gordon for some time now and ever since Satellite was in the running of the contest I watched and read up on Eurovision. So I’m not a silly American who knows nothing about it, I actually did my research way before I knew I was even going to be entered.

Have you ever watched it and what did you like?

I really enjoy it! The only time I could actually watch it LIVE was when I was in Europe, but I always like to watch past contestants on YouTube. I really wish I could watch it LIVE in America, I think people would really love it. What do I like? The intense competition, of course!

Why should you, as an American, represent Switzerland?

feel like a part of me is Switzerland. So many of my first real experiences and life changes have come out of Switzerland, so I feel as if I am the perfect candidate to represent this small but wonderful Country. I understand how hard it is for some people to accept me as an American trying to represent them. I just want everyone to understand the deep connection I have there, musically and personally. I have so many friends that I met on the Coole Schule tour; some of these kids changed my life. Before I w - Eurovision Times