Diabetic American Idol Finalist NOT Singing the Blues

Filed in archive Inspiration on May 12, 2006

America has fallen in love with the sweet-voiced Elliott Yamin, one of the few remaining American Idol contestants. But far more impressive than his talent is his attitude towards life. Did you know that Elliott is 90% deaf in his right ear, an uncommon (but occurring) complication from the diabetes he has had since he was a very young child?

Elliott may be the first American Idol finalist ever to perform while utilizing an insulin pump. He may also be the first contestant to inspire a nation, whether he wins or not.

Yamin, who is 90 percent deaf in his right ear and has juvenile diabetes, joins Taylor Hicks, Chris daughtry and Katharine McPhee as one of the four finalists in the fifth season of "American Idol."

"I never knew Elliott could sing," said his mother, Claudette Yamin. "About a year ago I went to karaoke. ... the noise level was very high and then Elliott came out. And when he opened his mouth and started singing, you could hear a pin drop and I thought, 'Oh my God."'

"He has no professional training. His singing is what he feels," said Claudette Yamin. "How he hears what he hears, enough to be able to sing on key and everything, is remarkable."

While some--including tough-to-please judge Simon Cowell--call Yamin the show's best male singer, some question his stage persona and star quality. But his supporters say there's more to being a performer than just looks.

"Whatever he may lack in stage presence, he has more than made up for that in his absolutely authentic modest and humble personality," said Lessin.

Congratulations to Elliott, and here's hoping more than ever that this inspirational young man walks away with the Idol crown.