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| {{Infobox musical artist | |||
| |name=Clay Aiken | |||
| |image=Clay Aiken appearance at NBC Experience Store, Rockefeller Center, NYC on 5-18-2012.jpg | |||
| |caption=Clay Aiken appearance at NBC Experience Store, Rockefeller Center, New York City, in 2012 | |||
| |background=solo_singer | |||
| |birth_name=Clayton Holmes Grissom<ref name="LTSp56" >Aiken, Clay. '']''. (2004) p. 56, ISBN 1-4000-6392-2</ref> | |||
| |birth_date={{birth date and age|mf=yes|1978|11|30}} | |||
| |birth_place=] | |||
| |genre={{hlist|]|]|]|]}} | |||
| |occupation={{hlist|Philanthropist|singer-songwriter|actor|author}} | |||
| |instrument={{hlist|Vocals|guitar}} | |||
| |years_active=2003–present | |||
| |label=]<br>] | |||
| |associated_acts= | |||
| |website={{URL|clayaiken.com}} | |||
| }} | |||
| '''Clay Aiken''' (born '''Clayton Holmes Grissom'''; November 30, 1978) is an American singer, songwriter, television personality, actor, author, politician and activist. Aiken was the 2014 ] nominee in the ] ]. | |||
| Aiken began his rise to fame placing second on the ] of the television program '']'' in 2003. He and the 2003 Winner ] were both offered recording contracts by ], and his multi-platinum debut album '']'' was released in October 2003. He released four more albums on the RCA label: '']'' (2004), '']'' (2006), and the Christmas EP, '']'' (2006).<ref>Moss, Corey. ''MTV.com.'' Retrieved 2007-06-23.</ref><ref>Barnes, Ken. ''USA Today''. November 9, 2006. Retrieved 2006-11-23.(article archived)</ref> His fourth studio album (the first album of original material since 2003's ''Measure of a Man''), '']'' was released on May 6, 2008.<ref> ''Reuters New York''. (Billboard) March 25, 2008.</ref> | |||
| After the release of ''On My Way Here'', Aiken left RCA and later signed with ]. His first album with Decca, '']'', was released June 1, 2010, and his second ''Steadfast'', was released March 26, 2012.<ref name="RelDte"> Retrieved 2010-04-08 {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100409072928/http://www.deccarecords-us.com/clayaiken/releases/|date=April 9, 2010}}</ref><ref name="TnTN&O">Ehlers, Matt Newsobserver. March 12, 2010. Retrieved 2010-03-13</ref> | |||
| In the years following his ''American Idol'' appearance, Aiken has launched eleven tours, authored a '']'' best-selling book '']'' with Allison Glock, and was the executive producer for a 2004 televised Christmas special, ''A Clay Aiken Christmas'' and his televised live concert special in 2010 on PBS ''Tried & True Live!''. He has been a frequent talk show guest, particularly on '']'' and '']''. He appeared as a guest star on '']'', '']'', '']'' and participated in comedy skits on numerous other shows. He also competed in the ] of '']'' and placed second in the finals to ]. | |||
| Aiken created the ] (formerly the Bubel/Aiken Foundation) in 2003, accepted a ] ambassadorship in 2004, a position he held for 9 1/2 years until 2013 when he gave it up in order to run for Congress. He was the "UNICEF Ambassador of Education for All Children Worldwide"; he traveled extensively on their behalf in this role. In 2006 was appointed for a two-year term to the Presidential Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities.<ref name="nip"> {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090809151623/http://www.inclusionproject.org/news.php?id=67|date=August 9, 2009}} National Inclusion Project. August 5, 2009. Retrieved 2009-08-05 {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090809151623/http://www.inclusionproject.org/news.php?id=67|date=August 9, 2009}}</ref><ref name="unicef"> ''US Fund for UNICEF website''.</ref><ref name="pcpid"> {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060925213522/http://www.acf.hhs.gov/news/press/2006/PCPID_appointments.htm|date=September 25, 2006}} ''US Dept of Health and Human Services'' (2006). Retrieved 2007-06-22. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060925213522/http://www.acf.hhs.gov/news/press/2006/PCPID_appointments.htm|date=September 25, 2006}}</ref> | |||
| Aiken made his ] debut playing the role of ] in ]'s '']'' in January 2008.<ref> ''CNN.com.'' Retrieved 2008-02-05 (article archived).</ref> His run ended in May but he rejoined the cast as Sir Robin in September and remained through January 4, 2009.<ref name="sirobin">{{cite news|accessdate=2008-08-12|url=http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117990451.html?categoryid=15&cs=1=|title=Clay Aiken returning to Broadway: 'American Idol' vet to reprise 'Spamalot' role|author=Cox, Gordon|work=Variety|date=August 12, 2008}}</ref> | |||
| In 2014, Aiken announced his intentions to run for ] in ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thinkprogress.org/lgbt/2014/02/05/3251621/clay-aiken-renee-ellmers/|title=Clay Aiken Already Facing Anti-Gay Rhetoric From Congressional Opponent|publisher=}}</ref> He won the ] held on May 6, 2014, but lost to Republican incumbent ] in the ] on November 4, 2014.<ref>{{cite news|last=Jarvis|first=Craig|title=Aiken victory confirmed as more details on Crisco's death emerge|url=http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2014/05/13/4908053/aiken-victory-confirmed-as-more.html#.U3V_TPldXiR|accessdate=2014-05-15|newspaper=]|date=May 13, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Jenkins|first=Colleen|title='American Idol' singer Clay Aiken seeks win in first political bid|url=http://www.investing.com/news/politics-news/'american-idol'-singer-clay-aiken-seeks-win-in-first-political-bid-314023|accessdate=2014-10-23|publisher=]|date=October 23, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Lachman|first=Samantha|title=Clay Aiken Defeated in 2014 North Carolina Congressional Race|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/11/04/clay-aiken-midterm-election-results_n_5973622.html|accessdate=2014-11-06|publisher=]|date=November 4, 2014}}</ref> | |||
| ==Early life== | |||
| Clay Aiken was born and raised in ]. As a young boy, Aiken sang in the ]; and, as a teenager, he sang in school choirs, church choir, musicals and local theatre productions.<ref name=Aiken-Pages249-251/> After high school, he sang lead with a local band, Just By Chance, co-hosting and performing with the band at "Just by Chance and Friends" shows in ].<ref>{{cite news|last=Woerner|first=Tom|url=http://www.mydailyrecord.com/main.asp?Search=1&ArticleID=45460&SectionID=1&SubSectionID=1&S=1|title=Scouts Remember Fallen Veterans|newspaper=The Dunn Daily Record|date=May 22, 2003|accessdate=2006-04-07}}{{dead link|date=August 2013}}</ref> He was also ] and performer at the Johnston Community College Country Showcase in ] and at the North Carolina Music Connection and Hometown Music Connection shows in ], and ]. He performed the national anthem numerous times for the ] and the ] hockey teams,<ref name=Aiken-Pages249-251>{{cite book|last=Aiken|first=Clay|title=]|year=2004|pages=249–251|isbn=1-4000-6392-2}}</ref> and performed it at the ] at the ] in Raleigh. Three demo albums of Aiken's vocals were created before ''American Idol'' with the aid of studio time given as a birthday gift by his mother: a cassette called ''Look What Love Has Done'' (by Clayton Grissom), a cassette and CD entitled ''Redefined'' (by Clayton Aiken), and a CD that combined some songs from each of the previous demos:'' "Look What Love Has Done, Vol 2"'' (by Clay Aiken).<ref> last.fm. Retrieved 2007-06-24</ref><ref> last.fm. Retrieved 2007-06-21.</ref> Estranged from his abusive birth father Vernon Grissom and with his mother's and grandfather Alvis Aiken's permission, at the age of 19 he legally changed his surname from Grissom to his mother Faye's maiden name, Aiken.<ref name="LTSp56"/> | |||
| Aiken attended Raleigh's ] and took courses at ] before enrolling at the ]. In 1995, Clay started working at the ]. Still in high school, Clay learned quickly that he could make a difference in the lives of young people.<ref name="Aiken, Clay 2004 pp. 133-134">Aiken, Clay. "]" (2004). pp. 133–134, ISBN 1-4000-6392-2.</ref> He found his interest in special education while directing ] children's camps as a teenager, and at age 19, he served as a substitute teacher for a classroom of students with ] at Brentwood Elementary School in Raleigh. It was during that experience that he decided to finish college and become a special education teacher.<ref name="Aiken, Clay 2004 pp. 153-161">Aiken, Clay. "]" (2004), pp. 153–161, ISBN 1-4000-6392-2.</ref> While attending college in Charlotte, he took a part-time job as an assistant to a boy with autism, and it was this child's mother, Diane Bubel, who urged him to audition for ''].'' Although his ''American Idol'' activities temporarily delayed his academic pursuits, Aiken completed his course work while on tour and graduated with a bachelor's degree in ] in December 2003.<ref> ''USA Today''. December 24, 2003.. Retrieved 2007-07-03</ref> | |||
| ==Personal life== | |||
| On August 8, 2008, Aiken announced, on his personal blog, the birth of his son in North Carolina: "My dear friend, Jaymes, and I are so excited to announce the birth of Parker Foster Aiken."<ref>Aiken,Clay. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100103091443/http://www.clayonline.com/clay/member/clayaiken|date=January 3, 2010}} ''Blog'' (Clay Aiken's Official Fanclub). August 8, 2008. Retrieved: August 8, 2008 {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100103091443/http://www.clayonline.com/clay/member/clayaiken|date=January 3, 2010}}</ref> The child's mother, Jaymes Foster, is the sister of record producer ], Executive Producer of Aiken's last three albums on the ] label. "The little man is healthy, happy, and as loud as his daddy", Aiken wrote. "Mama Jaymes is doing quite well also."<ref>Associated Press. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110311033059/http://www.theinsider.com/news/1118209__American_Idol_crooner_Clay_Aiken_now_a_father|date=March 11, 2011}} ''News'' (theInsider.com). August 8, 2008. Retrieved: 2009-25-07. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110311033059/http://www.theinsider.com/news/1118209__American_Idol_crooner_Clay_Aiken_now_a_father|date=March 11, 2011}}</ref> In his book, '']'', Aiken said, "It's a Southern tradition to be given your first name from your grandmama's maiden name."<ref>Aiken, Clay. '']'' (2004), pp. 34, ISBN 1-4000-6392-2</ref> Aiken's middle name came from his paternal grandmother's maiden name; he and Foster used the married surnames of their mothers to name their son. | |||
| After several years of public speculation, Aiken came out as gay in a September 2008 interview with '']'' magazine.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.people.com/people/archive/article/0,,20230468,00.html|title=Clay Aiken No More Secrets|author=Caplan, David|accessdate=2008-12-24|publisher=People Magazine|date=September 24, 2008}}</ref> In April 2009, Aiken was honored by the ] advocacy group at its annual benefit dinner in New York City.<ref>{{dead link|date=August 2013}} broadway.com. April 21, 2009. Retrieved 2009-08-04</ref> | |||
| On November 18, 2010, Aiken went to Washington, D.C., on behalf of ] (GLSEN) at a Capitol Hill briefing talking about anti-gay bullying.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thegavoice.com/index.php/news/national-news-menu/1576-clay-aiken-to-congress-stop-anti-gay-bullying|title=Clay Aiken to Congress: Stop anti-gay bullying|publisher=Thegavoice.com|date=November 24, 2010|accessdate=2013-07-02}}</ref> | |||
| ===Faith and philosophy=== | |||
| Aiken was born into a Baptist family. As a toddler, in 1980, he attended Leesville Baptist Church every week. According to his book, '']'',<ref>Aiken, Clay. ''Learning to Sing: Hearing the Music in Your Life'' (2004)</ref> he was involved in Bible school, choir, and the youth group. The book made '']'' in 2004, debuted at number two. It was written with ] and published by ]. Barely mentioning ''American Idol'', Aiken instead turned his focus to the people who had the most influence in his life – his mother, grandparents, siblings, teachers, and friends – and to the importance of religion in his life. He describes himself as a proud ] who journeyed away from those roots in his late teens in search of a religion with more liberal social policies. He then returned to that church because of family and social ties although he remains at odds with the church on some issues. | |||
| When asked in a '']'' interview to name his idols, he responded, "When people ask me what three people I'd like to have dinner with, living or dead, I say Jesus Christ, Mr. Rogers, and Jimmy Carter."<ref name="pbskids"></ref> | |||
| While not self-identified as a ] artist, Aiken was featured in '']'' as an "American Idol Christian" in 2004, and in a cover story, "Clay Aiken's Balancing Act", in the January/February 2005 issue.<ref name="xmp2004">{{cite web | |||
| |url=http://www.christianmusicplanet.com/magazine/viewarticle.asp?id=356 | |||
| |title=American Idol Christians | |||
| |author=''Christian Music Planet'' staff | |||
| |date=January 2005 | |||
| |work=2004 in Review | |||
| |publisher=Christian Music Planet | |||
| |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20070308045614/http://www.christianmusicplanet.com/magazine/viewarticle.asp?id=356 | |||
| |archivedate=March 8, 2007 | |||
| }}</ref><ref>Argyakis, Andy. ''Christian Music Planet''. January/February 2005. Archived, subscription required.</ref> His pre-''Idol'' demo albums included several selections of ] (or CCM) and ] songs. A performance of the ]' "Jesus is Love" at the American Music Awards in 2003 earned Aiken and ] a standing ovation. Aiken has sung a few CCM songs at his pop concerts, and has made Christmas albums, Christmas television specials and performances, and Christmas tours essential elements of his career. | |||
| Aiken makes it clear that he is aware not everyone shares his religious beliefs and it is not his intention to press these beliefs on others. When he worked as a camp counselor at the ], he challenged other camp faculty by insisting that singing "overtly Christian songs" was inappropriate, as some of the kids were ]. "I stood firm... no child is going to have a spiritual crisis on my watch."<ref>Aiken, Clay. '']'' (2004), pp. 228, ISBN 1-4000-6392-2.</ref> His public philosophy, geared towards inclusion and service to others, reflects his stance that decisions about religion should be made at home.<ref></ref><ref>Aiken, Clay. '']'' (2004), pp. 227–229, ISBN 1-4000-6392-2.</ref> | |||
| ==''American Idol''== | |||
| {{Main article|American Idol (season 2)}} | |||
| Aiken had filled out an application to participate in the reality show '']'' when a friend of his insisted that he try out for ''American Idol'' instead.<ref>Bronson, Fred. ''The Billboard Book of Number 1 Hits''. Billboard Books. ISBN 0-8230-7677-6.</ref> Television viewers first glimpsed Aiken during the audition episodes at the beginning of ''American Idol's'' second season. The show's judges first saw Aiken as a ]y type unlikely to be a typical pop idol, but after hearing him sing ]'s "Always and Forever" decided to advance him to the next round. The clip of the judges' surprise during this audition performance was replayed many times over the course of the competition. | |||
| Aiken made it to the round of 32 before being cut from the show, but he was invited to return for the "Wild Card" round; his performance of ]'s "]" sent him on to the final 12 as the viewer's choice. While noted for his performance of ballads, such as ]'s "]", his upbeat performances, including ]' "]", were also appreciated. Aiken received enough votes every week to keep him out of the bottom three. Part of his appeal was his "geek to chic" transformation in appearance. "I looked like ]", Aiken said to ] regarding his appearance at his '']'' audition in 2002.<ref>. Retrieved 2007-05-24.</ref> He replaced his glasses with ] and agreed to let the show's stylists change his hair style.<ref>Cooper, Chet. ''Ability Magazine.'' Retrieved 2007-05-24.</ref> With longer, flat ironed, spiky hair and a penchant for wearing striped shirts, Aiken had established a trademark look by the final ''American Idol'' season 2 show. | |||
| On May 21, 2003, Aiken came in a close second to ], who won the contest by 134,000 votes out of more than 24,000,000 votes cast. The result was controversial, as some hypothesized that ''Idol'''s voting system was incapable of handling the number of attempted calls.<ref>Seibel, Deborah Starr. ''Broadcasting & Cable.'' May 17, 2004. Retrieved 2006-04-08.</ref> In an interview prior to the start of the ] of ''American Idol'', Executive Producer ] revealed for the first time that Aiken had led the fan voting every week from the Wild Card week to the finale, when the possibly-random voting result gave Studdard the win.<ref>Martin, Logan. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120217005739/http://www.realitynewsonline.com/cgi-bin/ae.pl?mode=1&article=article9455.art&page=1/|date=February 17, 2012}} ''Reality News Online''. January 17, 2006. Retrieved 2006-04-08. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120217005739/http://www.realitynewsonline.com/cgi-bin/ae.pl?mode=1&article=article9455.art&page=1/|date=February 17, 2012}}</ref> | |||
| '']'' featured Aiken on the cover of its July 2003 issue. In the cover article Aiken said, "One thing I've found of people in the public eye, either you're a womanizer or you've got to be gay. Since I'm neither one of those, people are completely concerned about me."<ref>Hedegaard, Erik and Jenny Eliscu. "New kid on the block." ''Rolling Stone''. New York. July 10, 2003. Iss. 926; pg. 40.</ref> In subsequent interviews he expressed frustration over continued questions about his ], telling '']'' magazine in 2006, "It doesn't matter what I say. People are going to believe what they want."<ref>Tauber, Michelle. "Clay Aiken Facing the Music." ''People''. New York, October 2, 2006. Vol. 66, Iss. 14; pg. 122.</ref> | |||
| Aiken made a surprise appearance on the final show of ], when failed auditioner Michael Sandecki returned to the show to receive a "Golden Idol" award for Best Impersonator for his Clay Aiken-like appearance. Aiken appeared without introduction in a well-tailored designer suit and longer, darker hair with bangs, looking so different that many did not recognize him until he began to sing "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me."<ref> ''People''. May 24, 2006. Retrieved 2007-05-24.</ref><ref> ''People''. Retrieved 2007-05-24.</ref> | |||
| The second season of the '']'' series (2007) was narrated by Aiken.<ref>{{dead link|date=October 2013}} PR Newswire. September 28, 2007. Retrieved 2007-10-07. (article archived)</ref> | |||
| Clay is reportedly one of the top 10 earners of ''Idol'', earning an estimated $1.5 million in 2010.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.abc2news.com/dpp/entertainment/top-earners-from-%22american-idol%22|title=Top earners from "American Idol"|publisher=Abc2news.com|date=July 25, 2011|accessdate=2013-07-02|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131011142037/http://www.abc2news.com/dpp/entertainment/top-earners-from-%22american-idol%22|archivedate=October 11, 2013|df=mdy}}</ref> | |||
| ===''American Idol'' season 2 performances and results=== | |||
| {|class="wikitable" | |||
| |- | |||
| !Week | |||
| !Theme | |||
| !Song Sung | |||
| !Artist | |||
| !Order | |||
| !Result | |||
| |- | |||
| |Audition | |||
| |Free Choice | |||
| |"Always And Forever" | |||
| |] | |||
| |N/A | |||
| |Advanced | |||
| |- | |||
| |Top 32/<br>Semi-final Group 2 | |||
| |Free Choice | |||
| |"]" | |||
| |] | |||
| |1 | |||
| |Top 3<br>Wild Card | |||
| |- | |||
| |Wild Card | |||
| |Free Choice | |||
| |"]" | |||
| |] | |||
| |2 | |||
| |Selected<br>Public Vote | |||
| |- | |||
| |Top 12 | |||
| |Motown | |||
| |"]" | |||
| |] | |||
| |7 | |||
| |Safe | |||
| |- | |||
| |Top 11 | |||
| |Movie Soundtracks | |||
| |"]" – '']'' | |||
| |]/<br>] | |||
| |4 | |||
| |Safe | |||
| |- | |||
| |Top 10 | |||
| |Country Rock | |||
| |"]" | |||
| |] | |||
| |10 | |||
| |Safe | |||
| |- | |||
| |Top 8{{ref|1|1}} | |||
| |Disco | |||
| |"]" | |||
| |] | |||
| |4 | |||
| |Safe | |||
| |- | |||
| |Top 8 | |||
| |Billboard #1 | |||
| |"]" | |||
| |] | |||
| |1 | |||
| |Safe | |||
| |- | |||
| |Top 7 | |||
| |] | |||
| |"]" | |||
| |Billy Joel | |||
| |7 | |||
| |Safe | |||
| |- | |||
| |Top 6 | |||
| |] | |||
| |"]" | |||
| |] | |||
| |2 | |||
| |Safe | |||
| |- | |||
| |Top 5 | |||
| |1960s<br>] | |||
| |"]"<br>"]" | |||
| |]<br>Neil Sedaka | |||
| |5<br>10 | |||
| |Safe | |||
| |- | |||
| |Top 4 | |||
| |] | |||
| |"]"<br>"]" | |||
| |Bee Gees<br>] | |||
| |2<br>6 | |||
| |Safe | |||
| |- | |||
| |Top 3 | |||
| |Random Choice<br>Judges' Choice<br>Idol's Choice | |||
| |"]"<br>"]"<br>"]" | |||
| |]<br>]<br>] | |||
| |3<br>6<br>9 | |||
| |Safe | |||
| |- | |||
| |Top 2 | |||
| |Finale | |||
| |"]"<br>"]"<br>"]" | |||
| |Clay Aiken<br>]<br>] | |||
| |2<br>4<br>6 | |||
| |Runner-up | |||
| |} | |||
| *<small>{{note|1|Note 1}} Due to ]'s disqualification, the Top 9 performances became Top 8 when no one was eliminated.</small> | |||
| ==Music== | |||
| ===2003–04: ''Measure of a Man''=== | |||
| On October 14, 2003, Aiken released his first solo album, '']'', which debuted at number one on the ], with 613,000 copies sold in its first week, the highest-selling debut for a solo artist in 10 years.<ref> wral.com. November 6, 2003. Retrieved 2009-08-08</ref> The album received ] ] certification on November 17, 2003 (a Double Platinum plaque was presented to Aiken by ] on October 22, 2003, during '']''). The album spawned both the hit single "Invisible" and his first hit song, "]" (both co-written by British songwriter ]). Later that year, Aiken won the Fan's Choice Award at the ] ceremony, and his CD single "This Is The Night/Bridge Over Troubled Water" won the Billboard award for the Best-Selling Single of 2003. | |||
| ===2004–06: ''Merry Christmas With Love''=== | |||
| On November 16, 2004, Aiken released a holiday album titled '']'', which set a new record for fastest-selling holiday album in the ] era (since 1991).<ref>Rogers, Steve. realitytvworld.com. November 29, 2004. Retrieved 2009-08-08</ref> The album debuted at number four on the ] and tied ]'s record for the highest debut by a holiday album in the history of '']'' magazine. '']'' sold over 1,000,000 copies retail in six weeks and was the best-selling holiday album of 2004, receiving RIAA Platinum certification on January 6, 2005. | |||
| ===2006–08: ''A Thousand Different Ways'' And ''All Is Well''=== | |||
| Aiken's second studio album, '']'', was released September 19, 2006.<ref> {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100514045923/http://www.livedaily.com/news/10719.html|date=May 14, 2010}} liveDaily.com. September 18, 2006. Retrieved 2009-07-25. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100514045923/http://www.livedaily.com/news/10719.html|date=May 14, 2010}}</ref> He worked on the album under the guidance of Canadian producer and A&R executive Jaymes Foster.<ref>Bliss, Karen. ''JAM!'' November 7, 2005. Retrieved 2006-04-08.</ref> The album contains ten cover songs and four new songs, one of which Aiken co-wrote. ] is credited with the cover concept.<ref> ''Access Hollywood''. August 3, 2006. Retrieved 2007-06-24 (article archived)</ref> One additional song, "Lover All Alone", written by Aiken and ], is included with the album on ]. Debuting at number two on the Billboard chart, ''A Thousand Different Ways'' made Aiken the fourth artist ever to have his first three albums debut in the Top 5 and scan over 200,000 in the first week.<ref>{{dead link|date=August 2013}} ''PRNewswire''. September 27, 2006.</ref> | |||
| Aiken's second Christmas album, '']'' (an ] of four Christmas songs), was released exclusively to ] on November 28, 2006, and was released to ] as a digital download in December 2007.<ref> (2006) walmart.com. (article archived)</ref> | |||
| ===2008–09: ''On My Way Here''=== | |||
| Aiken stated in an April 2007 interview with ''People'' that he was planning a new album, and during his May 2007 appearance on '']'', he mentioned that he was in Los Angeles interviewing producers for the new album.<ref>Richards, Constance. ''People'' April 3, 2007. Retrieved 2007-04-13.</ref> Aiken found a song, "On My Way Here", written by ] frontman ], that struck a chord with him and became the inspiration for the album's theme in addition to the album title. For a cohesive sound, Aiken chose Mark ']' Eldridge to produce the entire album. '']'' was released May 6, 2008, on the ] label.<ref>Cohen, Jonathan. ''Billboard''. March 21, 2008. Retrieved 2008-03-21.</ref> | |||
| According to an article posted on '']'', Aiken and RCA parted ways shortly after his ''On My Way Here'' album was released. | |||
| Aiken's rep confirmed to ''People'' magazine that Aiken left RCA.<ref> ''Billboard''. by Shirley Halperin. February 20, 2009. Retrieved 2009-02-20.</ref><ref> ''People''. by David Caplan. February 20, 2009. Retrieved 2009-02-20.</ref> Stated in the cited ''People'' article, "The buzz about Aiken's exit was fueled earlier this week when his picture disappeared online and Billboard, citing unnamed sources, reported Friday that Aiken, 30, had been dropped by the label. According to Billboard, Aiken's 2008 album "On My Way Here" sold just 159,000 copies in the U.S., compared to his 2003 debut album, "Measure of a Man", which sold 2.78 million copies". | |||
| A fifth album, '']'', was released at the end of March 2009 on Sony's ] Playlist Series.<ref> ClayOnline News. 02/27/09. Retrieved 2009-02-27</ref> This album was a compilation of songs that had been included on the previous albums released by RCA. First week sales of 3000 copies placed ''Playlist: The Very Best of Clay Aiken'' at number 173 on the ] chart and at number ten on the Top Internet Albums chart.<ref> Reuters UK. 4/10/09. Retrieved 2009-04-10</ref> | |||
| ===2009–11: ''Tried and True''=== | |||
| On August 10, 2009, it was announced on Aiken's official website that he had signed with ] and he would have new music out by early 2010.<ref> ClayOnline News. August 10, 2009. Retrieved 2009-08-10</ref> Performing the songs from his new album, '']'', Aiken held a one night only concert at the ] in Raleigh, North Carolina on March 12, 2010. The concert, filmed for ] broadcast, included guest appearances by ] and ].<ref name="TnTN&O"/><ref name="BB100623">Graff, Gary. Billboard. June 23, 2010. Retrieved 2010–06–23.</ref> Eder joined Aiken on stage for their duet of "]", which they recorded for his album. The album was released on June 1, 2010 and features songs popular in the 1950s and 1960s, including two Aiken covered during his run on ''American Idol'', "]" and "]".<ref name="RelDte"/> In conjunction with the PBS special a companion DVD, ''Tried & True Live!'', was released on July 27, 2010. A tour to promote the album is planned for early 2014. | |||
| ===2011–present: ''Steadfast''=== | |||
| On December 20, 2011, Aiken released a new single, "Bring Back My Love" under the Decca Label. The single is his first original song since the release of his album '']'' in 2008. On March 27, 2012 Aiken released ''Steadfast'', a new album of previous recordings and songs only sung in concerts. The album debuted at #120 on the Billboard 200 chart with sales of 4,000 in the first week.<ref>{{cite news|title=McCreery's 'Clear as Day' takes the top 'Idol' album spot|url=http://content.usatoday.com/communities/idolchatter/post/2012/04/mccreerys-clear-as-day-takes-the-top-idol-album-spot/1|last=Mansfield|first=Brian|series=Idol Chatter|work=USA Today|date=April 4, 2012|accessdate=2013-12-15}}</ref> | |||
| ==Television== | |||
| Aiken has made many television appearances.<ref name="IMDB">{{IMDb name|id=1341750}}</ref> | |||
| On Labor Day 2003, Aiken sang "Bridge Over Troubled Water" at the '']'' and received a standing ovation from the audience. Lewis compared Aiken with ] and marveled at the dedication of Aiken's fan base: | |||
| {{quote|"We have someone here today from the smash hit show ''American Idol''. We're thrilled to have him joining us today, because when it was made known that he would appear on this Telethon, the emails and the fan clubs that this young man has have sent us $30,000.00 just at the fact that he was here. And I can honestly say I have never, in all of my life, seen a theatrical groundswell that this kid has motivated, that it makes us all come right back to the bobby sox and Frank. And isn't it nice to live through that magnificence again? Here is Clay Aiken."<ref name="ClayMDA">]</ref>}} | |||
| That same year, Aiken sang "]" on the opening night of the ] and appeared in numerous television specials during the winter of 2003, including '']'s Christmas Day Parade'' and the ''] Holiday Special'', where he sang the "]/Peace on Earth" with ] via special effects. | |||
| Aiken starred in and executive produced his first TV special (December 2004), titled ''A Clay Aiken Christmas'', with special guests ], ], and ]; the special was released on DVD later that month. On July 4, 2004, Aiken was one of the performers in the '']'' concert in Washington, D.C. and performed in the '']'' Summer Concert Series in 2004 and 2005. He also sang "]" on the popular television show '']''. | |||
| Aiken was the musical guest on '']'' in 2004 and participated in several skits. He has appeared multiple times on '']'', interviewing with ] as a guest in addition to singing, and has become a regular guest on '']''. The Kimmel appearances often feature skits: in one, ]'s then girlfriend ] confessed to an affair with Aiken, and in another, Aiken expressed his distaste for Kimmel's jokes about him by beating him up. In May 2007, he spent the first half of his interview on horseback while talking about his recent ] trip to ]. A few weeks later he appeared as a spokesperson for "Guillermo's Mustache" in Kimmel's fictional DVD informercial shown on the '']'' finale. Aiken made his acting debut on '']'' in early 2004, playing himself, and in 2005, he was interviewed by ] on '']''. He played the role of cafeteria worker Kenny on the '']'' episode "]". In December 2006, he made an appearance as himself on ''].'' | |||
| After hosting and performing in the ''American Idol'' Christmas special in 2003, Aiken has had several subsequent hosting jobs. He was a special correspondent for '']'' for the 2005 ]s, and on the sets of the sitcom '']'' with ] and '']''. He co-hosted '']'' in 2006, and on November 17, 2006, filled in for ] as guest host on '']''. During an interview, Aiken covered ]'s mouth with his hand.<ref>Serpe, Gina. eonline.com. November 21, 2006. Retrieved 2006-12-17.</ref> The incident drew considerable media reaction after Ripa complained at length about the incident on her show the following Monday.<ref> TMZ.com. November 25, 2006. Retrieved 2006-12-17.</ref> Aiken made fun of the controversy on the ''2006 American Music Awards'' the next night with ].<ref> ''People.com.'' Retrieved 2007-05-24.</ref> On '']'' in 2006, filmed before the Ripa incident, Aiken mentioned wanting to have his own talk show someday, and Banks switched seats with him and let him interview her for one segment of the show. Aiken was a guest judge on the April 8, 2009 segment of Banks show '']''; in what the show refers to as a teach, he worked with the remaining 8 contestants on their acting skills prior to the judging. | |||
| In November 2007, Aiken was a contestant on a celebrity edition of the game show '']''.<ref>"Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?" (2007) | |||
| Original Air Date: | |||
| November 1, 2007 (Season 2, Episode 9)</ref> Playing for his charity, the ], he chose to drop out after the ninth question with $300,000, despite having a copy and a save at his disposal. If he had played the tenth question, he would have won $500,000; Aiken and the 5th grader playing with him both had the correct answer. | |||
| In May 2009, Aiken made a guest appearance on '']'' in the season 3 episode "]." It was revealed in this episode that he is the cousin of the show's character ].<ref> ''NBC Universal Media Village'' Retrieved 2009-05-19. {{dead link|date=June 2016|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> | |||
| In August 2010, Aiken guest starred in an episode of '']'', called "]." Aiken sang an inspirational duet with ], to encourage those who did not believe that Phineas and Ferb could accomplish their goal of circling the globe faster than the sun, thus creating the longest summer day of all time.<ref> ''The Washington Post''. Retrieved 2010-08-08.</ref> | |||
| On January 30, 2011, Aiken sang the United States' national anthem at the 2011 NHL All-Star game held at the ] in Raleigh, North Carolina, home of the Carolina Hurricanes. | |||
| Recently, Aiken guest starred on the comedy drama series ''].'' | |||
| In 2012, Aiken was a contestant in the ] of '']'', and ended up losing to ], becoming the runner-up. | |||
| Aiken appeared in one of the last episodes of '']'', titled "]". He played himself and was one of the judges for a reality show that Andy was auditioning for.<ref>{{cite web|author=Gabrielle Bonghi|url=http://www.philly.com/philly/entertainment/music/Santigold-Clay-Aiken--Aaron-Rogers-to-make-cameos-on-The-Office.html|title=Santigold, Clay Aiken & Aaron Rodgers to make cameos on 'The Office'|publisher=Philly.com|date=|accessdate=2013-07-02}}</ref> | |||
| In 2013, Aiken guest starred on an episode '']'' along with ] and ], playing themselves as judges for a singing contest on the episode called "Dissonant Voices."<ref>{{cite web|author=Anna Taberski|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/anna-taberski/law-and-order-svu-season_b_4231497.html|title=Law and Order: SVU' Season 15, Episode 7 Recap: Almost Like 'American Idol,' But With Terrible Crimes|publisher=Huffpost TV.com}}</ref> | |||
| ==Broadway== | |||
| On January 18, 2008, Aiken made his ] debut when he joined the cast of '']'s ]'' for a four-month run, ending on May 4, 2008. He played Sir Robin, in the ]-winning musical directed by ]. In addition to Sir Robin, Aiken played the 1st Guard and the Brother Maynard roles.<ref>{{cite news|accessdate=2007-10-17|url=http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/10-16-2007/0004683237&EDATE=|title=Clay Aiken joins Monty Python's SPAMALOT, The Funniest Show on Earth|publisher=PR Newswire Association|date=October 16, 2007|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080205052759/http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/10-16-2007/0004683237&EDATE=|archivedate=February 5, 2008}} (article archived)</ref> On August 12, 2008, it was announced that Aiken would resume his role as Sir Robin beginning on September 19 and ending on January 4, 2009.<ref name="sirobin"/> On December 23, 2008, Aiken had his ] unveiled at world-famous ] restaurant.<ref>{{cite news|accessdate=2008-12-24|url=http://www.playbill.com/news/article/124636.html|author=Blank, Matthew|title=PHOTO CALL: Clay Aiken Honored with Sardi's Caricature|publisher=Playbill.com|date=December 24, 2008|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081227021012/http://www.playbill.com:80/news/article/124636.html|archivedate=December 27, 2008|df=mdy}}</ref> | |||
| ==Other theater work== | |||
| In May 2013, Aiken starred as "Man in Chair" in North Carolina Theatre's production of '']'', along with fellow Raleigh native and Tony Award winner Beth Leavel, who reprised her role as "The Chaperone." | |||
| During the summer of 2013, Aiken performed the role of Joseph in the musical '']'' at the Ogunquit Playhouse in Ogunquit, Maine.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ogunquitplayhouse.org/2013season/joseph|title=Archived copy|accessdate=2013-08-18|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130609033959/http://www.ogunquitplayhouse.org:80/2013season/joseph|archivedate=June 9, 2013|df=mdy}}</ref> | |||
| ==Tours== | |||
| From February through April 2004, Aiken and ] embarked on the ] as co-headliners.<ref>Rogers, Steve. RealityTVWorld. January 18, 2004. Retrieved 2010-02-15</ref> Following this tour, he was scheduled for a few summer solo tour dates, but demand ultimately led to the booking of 50 dates across the United States, resulting in what many fans called the "Not-A-Tour". ] (Buena Vista) was the exclusive sponsor of this unnamed summer tour, promoting their '']'' Special Edition 2-Disc DVD with a preview of Aiken's rendition of "]", a song originally intended for the first release of the film but cut when the Aladdin storyline changed during production. A music video featuring Aiken is on the ''Aladdin'' Special Edition DVD.<ref> United Press International, July 10, 2004. Retrieved 2009-08-20. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131019165025/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P1-96289847.html|date=October 19, 2013}}</ref> On this tour, he also performed a duet, "Without You", which was released on ]'s 2004 debut album ]. | |||
| In November 2004, Aiken launched his third tour of the year, which revolved around a Christmas theme. "The Joyful Noise Tour", sponsored by ], featured a conductor and a 30-piece orchestra.<ref> 2004 McDonald's Corporation (pdf). December 17, 2004. Retrieved 2009-08-20</ref> In some cities, Aiken was supported by the local philharmonic or symphony, such as the ] and the ]. Local choirs from high schools and elementary schools also participated at each concert.<ref>Rogers, Steve. realitytvworld.com. November 29, 2004. Retrieved 2009-08-20</ref> | |||
| ]]] During the summer of 2005, Aiken, with a seven-piece band and three back-up singers, toured with the "Jukebox Tour", performing songs of the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, as well as a few favorites from ''].'' He also performed a few new songs being considered for his next album.<ref> .thewaywemakeadifference.org. August 25, 2005. Retrieved 2009-08-20</ref> | |||
| In early November 2005, Aiken launched his second Christmas tour. The 2005 Joyful Noise tour featured a series of vignettes, written by Aiken,<ref>Kragen, Pam. ''North Country Times''. November 9, 2005. Retrieved 2007-06-25 (article archived)</ref> which told the story of an older woman who had lost the Christmas spirit and a young boy who helps her find it again. A cast of actors, dancers and back-up singers traveled with the tour, and members of local theater groups were added in each venue for smaller, non-speaking roles and crowd scenes. The tour opened in ], British Columbia, on November 2, and ended in ] on December 30. According to ], Aiken's first five tours grossed $28 million.<ref> ''Forbes.com''. January 15, 2007. Retrieved 2007-06-21.</ref><ref> ''The Wall Street Journal''. June 22, 2007. Retrieved 2007-06-22.</ref> | |||
| In December 2006, Aiken began his third Christmas tour, comprising performances in 18 ] and ] cities. Aiken was supported by local orchestras, which also opened the concerts with a program of seasonal music.<ref> .americanidolworship.com. December 21, 2006. Retrieved 2009-08-20</ref> | |||
| A 23-date tour in support of his third album, '']'', began on July 4, 2007, and ended in ], on August 19. On this tour Aiken hired local symphonies to back him, along with tour regulars Jesse Vargas, pianist, conductor and arranger; Sean McDaniel, drummer; and Quiana Parler and Angela Fisher, backup singers. Three days into the tour, Aiken and a woman were involved in an in-flight altercation in which she allegedly shoved him. As a result of the scuffle, Aiken and the woman were later questioned by the ].<ref name="Tulsa World"> ''Tulsaworld.com''. July 2007. Retrieved 2007-07-09.</ref> Aiken told ''ET'' that he had been sleeping when the incident occurred.<ref> ''ET.Com'' July 9, 2007. Retrieved 2008-01-12. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080205061508/http://www.etonline.com/celebrities/news/2007/07/48910/|date=February 5, 2008}}</ref> | |||
| His fourth annual Christmas tour, "Christmas in the Heartland", began on November 26, 2007, in ].<ref> ''TicketNews.com'' June 25, 2007. Retrieved 2007-06-25</ref> That 21-date tour ended on December 22, 2007, in Merrillville, Indiana. | |||
| He has ended all of his Christmas tours with his signature Christmas song, "Don't Save It All For Christmas Day." | |||
| Aiken and ] brought their "Timeless" tour to cities in the US and Canada beginning in ], on July 23, 2010, and ending in ], on August 14.<ref name="BB100623"/><ref> ''clayonline.com'' April 1, 2010. Retrieved 2010-04-01</ref><ref>Franklin, Mark. 'The York Dispatch Idol Chatter'' April 1, 2010. Retrieved 2010-04-01</ref> Instead of a concert focusing on each singers recordings, Aiken and Studdard opted for a variety show format covering medleys of songs from the 1960s to the 1990s with a few solos and interspersed with comedy bits.<ref>Wener, Ben. The Orange County Register August 2, 2010. Retrieved 2010-08-10</ref> | |||
| Aiken announced on July 30, 2010, that he will be touring in February and March 2011 in conjunction with ] to support his album '']'' and accompanying live DVD ''Clay Aiken: Tried and True – Live''.<ref> {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100903121613/http://clayaiken.com/news/12258|date=September 3, 2010}} ''clayaiken.com/news'' July 30, 2010. Retrieved 2010-08-30</ref><ref> {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100818032511/http://clayaiken.com/news/12290|date=August 18, 2010}} ''clayaiken.com/news'' August 9, 2010. Retrieved 2010-08-30</ref> | |||
| Aiken began his fifth Christmas tour "Joyful Noise 2012" in Florida in November 2012.<ref> {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121008232833/http://clayaiken.com/news/97791|date=October 8, 2012}} ''clayaiken.com/news'' September 17, 2012. Retrieved 2012-09-30</ref><ref> {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120929021731/http://clayaiken.com/events|date=September 29, 2012}} ''clayaiken.com/news'' September 17, 2012. Retrieved 2012-09-30</ref> | |||
| ==Activism== | |||
| Aiken started at an early age to believe in a life of service. In 1995, Clay started working at the ]. Still in high school, Clay learned quickly that he could make a difference in the lives of young people.<ref name="Aiken, Clay 2004 pp. 133-134"/> | |||
| At 19, Clay taught at ] in a class of kids with autism. It was during that experience that he decided to finish college and become a special education teacher.<ref name="Aiken, Clay 2004 pp. 153-161"/> | |||
| Aiken has donated his time and his voice to multiple benefit events and concerts, including the 2004 ] Benefit, the America's Promise Benefit, and ]'s ] benefit, "Home", where he sang a duet with Headley.<ref> {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120426012601/http://broadwayinspirationalvoices.com/supportHtml/SupHH.html|date=April 26, 2012}} broadwayinspirationalvoices.com Retrieved 2009-08-05. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120426012601/http://broadwayinspirationalvoices.com/supportHtml/SupHH.html|date=April 26, 2012}}</ref> He was one of the celebrity readers for the ''Arthur Celebrity Audiobook (Stories for Heroes Series)'', which benefits the ] (now the ]) and other charities, and served as spokesperson for the series. He was also a spokesperson for the 2004 ] drive, and acted as an ambassador for the ] Charities. Aiken worked with the ] to make one little boy's dream of singing on stage with Clay Aiken come true.<ref> {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090104090823/http://www.philadelphia.wish.org/john.htm|date=January 4, 2009}} Make-A-Wish Foundation of Philadelphia & Susquehanna Valley. Retrieved 2009-01-10. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090104090823/http://www.philadelphia.wish.org/john.htm|date=January 4, 2009}}</ref> | |||
| In September 2006, Aiken was appointed to the Presidential Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities by President ]. Appointees serve a two-year term; Aiken was sworn in September 14, 2006, by HHS Assistant Secretary for Children and Families ], PhD<ref name="pcpid"/> In April 2008, Aiken told ''People Magazine'' that he was too busy to do as much as he would like, but "If there's something I can do remotely, I would've been happy to do it."<ref> ''People''. April 24, 2008.</ref> | |||
| While appearing in Spamalot, Aiken used his free time and celebrity to help raise funds for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS (BC/EFA) during their fund drives and auctions.<ref> {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080829194515/http://www.playbill.com/news/article/115206.html|date=August 29, 2008}} Playbill, by Andrew Gans, February 19, 2008. Retrieved 2008-12-27.</ref><ref> broadway world.com, by BWW News Desk, September 22, 2008. Retrieved 2008-12-27.</ref> In 2010, Aiken spoke out for gay rights at the ] dinner in North Carolina.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nationalledger.com/artman/publish/article_272630625.shtml | |||
| |title=Clay Aiken – Gay Rights Stand for American Idol Singer | |||
| |work=National Ledger|date=March 1, 2010 | |||
| |accessdate=March 3, 2010 | |||
| }}</ref> He also joined other celebrities in filming an educational video for ]'s web based Give a Damn campaign, a project of her True Colors Fund. In addition to UNICEF and his National Inclusion Project he is promoting GLSEN, the ] as one of his causes on his official website.<ref>{{cite web | |||
| |url=http://www.advocate.com/News/Daily_News/2010/05/21/Aiken_and_Cho_Fight_Against_Harassment/ | |||
| |title=Aiken and Cho Fight Against Harassment | |||
| |work=The Advocate | |||
| |date=May 21, 2010 | |||
| |accessdate=June 8, 2010 | |||
| }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | |||
| |url=http://fayobserver.com/articles/2010/06/10/1004773?sac=Life | |||
| |title=Clay Aiken finds comfort in old songs, new life | |||
| |work=Fayetteville Observer (AP) | |||
| |date=June 10, 2010 | |||
| |accessdate=September 28, 2010 | |||
| }}{{dead link|date=November 2016|bot=InternetArchiveBot|fix-attempted=yes}}</ref> | |||
| ===National Inclusion Project (formerly BAF)=== | |||
| {{Main article|National Inclusion Project}} | |||
| Aiken has been a dedicated advocate for education and for children's causes. His interest in ] issues led him, along with Diane Bubel (whose son Michael is diagnosed with autism and was tutored by Aiken), to found the ] (formerly the Bubel/Aiken Foundation), which supports the integration of children with disabilities into the life environment of their non-disabled peers.<ref> newswiretoday.com. Press Release. August 20, 2009. Retrieved 2009-08-20.</ref> The Foundation runs summer camps which reflect its mission, and also presents Able to Serve awards to support the volunteer efforts of children with physical and mental disabilities.<ref> Retrieved 2009-08-06. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090809151723/http://www.inclusionproject.org/level_2.php?id=3|date=August 9, 2009}}</ref><ref> Retrieved 2006-06-23. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090524042551/http://ysa.org/PartnersSponsors/tabid/61/Default.aspx#thebubel/aikenfoundation/|date=May 24, 2009}}</ref> In July 2005, Raleigh's ] reported on an internet campaign mounted by critics questioning how Aiken's foundation used its money. WRAL news hired an independent accountant who reported that program services totaled $920,000 in 2004—around 85 cents on every dollar donated—which is considered a solid percentage compared to other charities.<ref> WRAL.com. July 18, 2005. Retrieved 2006-06-23.</ref> ] picked up the story, and Aiken appeared on '']'' to provide details about the Foundation's programs.<ref> {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140820074718/http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0507/25/sbt.01.html/|date=August 20, 2014}} CNN.com. July 25, 2005. Retrieved 2006-06-23. Archived, subscription required. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140820074718/http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0507/25/sbt.01.html/|date=August 20, 2014}}</ref> In late 2004, the Foundation was awarded a $500,000 grant by the US government to develop a K–12 model for inclusion in community service projects to be used in schools across the country. In addition, ] granted $1.5 million to the Foundation to help develop a primary education curriculum focused on teaching social and life skills through service to children of all levels of ability.<ref> ''CSR Wire Press Release''. November 2, 2005. Retrieved 2006-04-08. (article archived)</ref> | |||
| On August 5, 2009, in an open letter from the founders, Clay Aiken and Diane Bubel stated "As we realized the impact the Foundation has already made, it became apparent that even bigger accomplishments could be on the horizon. To that end, we along with the rest of the Board decided that a new name for the Foundation would establish long-term credibility and stability. We sought a name that would signify the Foundation's position as a national leader on inclusion as well as recognize the Foundation's start and the efforts of its faithful supporters. After much thought and deliberation, we are proud to introduce the organization we co-founded as the National Inclusion Project."<ref name="nip"/> | |||
| ===UNICEF=== | |||
| In November 2004, Aiken was appointed a ] National Ambassador, with a mission to help ensure that children everywhere are afforded a primary education.<ref name="unicef"/> After the ] at the end of 2004, he participated in the ] telethon, which raised over $10 million, and recorded ]s in support of South Asian tsunami relief. He later recorded a video, featuring the song "]", to be used as a ] to raise money for tsunami victims. He was the 2005 spokesperson for the Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF drive.<ref>Shultz, Susan. http://www.acorn-online.com/news/exec/view.cgi/22/6741 {{dead link|date=November 2016|bot=InternetArchiveBot|fix-attempted=yes}} "'Idol' surprises Middlesex." ''The Darien Times''. May 18, 2006. Retrieved 2006-07-27. (article archived)</ref> | |||
| In March 2005, UNICEF sent Aiken to the tsunami-stricken ] area to raise awareness of the need to restore education quickly to the children who survived this disaster.<ref>.</ref> UNICEF sent Aiken on another mission in May 2005, to northern ], to witness the plight of children called "night commuters", who flee the villages each night to sleep in streets and shelters in hopes of avoiding being kidnapped by the ]. He was sent to ] and ], in ] in April 2007, where he was able to spend time with children in their classrooms; he also visited a health center for women and children where he administered oral ] to babies. He observed that ] children, after being forbidden for so many years by the ] regime to attend school, are eager to return to school now that they are once again allowed to receive an education.<ref> unicef.org. April 18, 2007.. Retrieved 2007-04-18.</ref> Aiken spent his 2007 Christmas in Mexico with the children affected by the floods in the states of Chiapas and Tabasco.<ref> ''BBC News''. November 1, 2007. Retrieved 2008-01-05.</ref><ref> unicef.org. December 25, 2007. Retrieved 2008-01-05.</ref> In late June and early July 2008, UNICEF sent Aiken to ] and ].<ref>Mohamed, Guled. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081221011849/http://africa.reuters.com/wire/news/usnL25715768.html|date=December 21, 2008}} ''Reuters South Africa''. June 25, 2008. Retrieved 2008-06-29 {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081221011849/http://africa.reuters.com/wire/news/usnL25715768.html|date=December 21, 2008}}</ref><ref> ''UNICEF Field Notes''. July 22, 2008. Retrieved 2008-07-22</ref> | |||
| ==Politics== | |||
| ] | |||
| In the ], Aiken was the ]'s candidate for ]. He was defeated by incumbent ] Congresswoman ], 59 to 41 percent.<ref>Bonner, Lynn. , Charlotte Observer, November 4, 2014.</ref> | |||
| ===Electoral history=== | |||
| {{Election box begin no change|title=Democratic primary election results}} | |||
| {{Election box winning candidate with party link no change | |||
| |party=Democratic Party (United States) | |||
| |candidate=Clay Aiken | |||
| |votes=11,634 | |||
| |percentage=40.83 | |||
| }} | |||
| {{Election box candidate with party link no change | |||
| |party=Democratic Party (United States) | |||
| |candidate=] | |||
| |votes=11,265 | |||
| |percentage=39.54 | |||
| }} | |||
| {{Election box candidate with party link no change | |||
| |party=Democratic Party (United States) | |||
| |candidate=Toni Morris | |||
| |votes=5,593 | |||
| |percentage=19.63 | |||
| }} | |||
| {{Election box turnout no change | |||
| |votes=28,492 | |||
| |percentage= | |||
| }} | |||
| {{Election box end}} | |||
| {{Election box begin no change|title=North Carolina's 2nd Congressional District, 2014<ref name=Generalelection>{{cite web|url=http://enr.ncsbe.gov/ElectionResults/?election_dt=11/04/2014|title=North Carolina Official General Election Results|publisher=North Carolina State Board of Elections|date=November 4, 2014|accessdate=January 23, 2015}}</ref>}} | |||
| {{Election box winning candidate with party link no change | |||
| |party=Republican Party (United States) | |||
| |candidate=Renee Ellmers (Incumbent) | |||
| |votes=122,128 | |||
| |percentage=58.83 | |||
| }} | |||
| {{Election box candidate with party link no change | |||
| |party=Democratic Party (United States) | |||
| |candidate=Clay Aiken | |||
| |votes=85,479 | |||
| |percentage=41.17 | |||
| }} | |||
| {{Election box total no change | |||
| |votes=207,607 | |||
| |percentage=100 | |||
| }} | |||
| {{Election box hold with party link no change | |||
| |winner=Republican Party (United States) | |||
| }} | |||
| {{Election box end}} | |||
| ==Fans== | |||
| ] Aiken was voted the Favorite Reality Star of 2003 by '']'' readers and "the most-loved reality star of all time" in a '']'' poll conducted in the summer of 2005.<ref>Kazan, Ali. ''TV Guide''. August 8, 2005. Retrieved 2006-04-05. (article archived)</ref> In February 2006, '']'' magazine readers voted Aiken their "Favorite American Idol".<ref>Ryfle, Steve. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070526063126/http://webcenters.netscape.compuserve.com/celebrity/becksmith.jsp?p=bsf_afteridol|date=May 26, 2007}} ''Netscape Celebrity''. Retrieved 2007-09-15.</ref> | |||
| While the origin of the term "Claymates" is unknown, Aiken trademarked the term.<ref></ref> While in Los Angeles in September 2006 for a CD signing and appearance on '']'', Aiken talked with ] of '']'' about the names various sub-groups have given themselves: "Claysians" (Asian fans), "Claynadians" (Canadian fans), "Clayropeans" (European fans) and "Claydawgs" (male fans). She then teased him about having his own "Clay Nation".<ref><!--{{cite web|url=http://www.etonline.com/music/spotlight/37262/index.html#|title=Archived copy|accessdate=2007-06-23|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20061130074258/http://www.etonline.com:80/music/spotlight/37262/index.html|archivedate=November 30, 2006|df=mdy}}--> "Clay Aiken: A Day In The Life!" ''Entertainment Tonight'' video interview with Jann Carl. Air date: September 28, 2006. Retrieved 2007-06-06.</ref> At the CD signing, two young fans asked Clay to autograph their shoulderblades and then went to the local tattoo parlor to make them permanent; later that day on ''Jimmy Kimmel Live!'' they were brought on stage to show the tattoos. Although some of his fans have been criticized at times by the media as being obsessive,<ref> realityblurred.com. November 15, 2004. Retrieved 2006-04-05.</ref> he defends the group as a whole. When Kimmel said to Aiken that his fans were "crazy", Aiken stated that they were merely "enthusiastic". In 2003, in anticipation of the release of '']'', fans all over the country decided to get together and hold parties to celebrate the release of the CD and purchase copies at midnight. In 2006, for the release of '']'', release parties were held in more than 80 cities in the United States, Canada, and Singapore.<ref>Lazzaro, Stephanie. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080221232044/http://media.www.nineronline.com/media/storage/paper971/news/2003/10/23/Entertainment/Fans-Most.Anticipated.Album.Worth.All.Nighter-2006335.shtml?sourcedomain=www.nineronline.com&MIIHost=media.collegepublisher.com|date=February 21, 2008}} nineronline.com. October 23, 2003. Retrieved 2007-06-21. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080221232044/http://media.www.nineronline.com/media/storage/paper971/news/2003/10/23/Entertainment/Fans-Most.Anticipated.Album.Worth.All.Nighter-2006335.shtml?sourcedomain=www.nineronline.com&MIIHost=media.collegepublisher.com|date=February 21, 2008}}</ref><ref> top40-charts.com. September 28, 2006. Retrieved 2007-06-21.</ref><ref>Kam,Nadine. ''Honolulu Star Bulletin''. October 10, 2003. Retrieved 2009-08-05.</ref> | |||
| ==Discography== | |||
| {{main article|Clay Aiken discography}} | |||
| {{col-begin}} | |||
| {{col-2}} | |||
| ===Studio albums=== | |||
| *'']'' (2003) | |||
| *'']'' (2004) | |||
| *'']'' (2006) | |||
| *'']'' (2006 EP) | |||
| *''] '' (2008) | |||
| *'']'' (2010) | |||
| *''Steadfast'' (2012) | |||
| {{col-2}} | |||
| ===Compilations=== | |||
| *'']'' (2009) | |||
| *''A Thousand Different Ways/Measure of a Man'' (2010) | |||
| ===DVDs=== | |||
| *''A Clay Aiken Christmas'' (2004) | |||
| *''Tried and True Live'' (2010) | |||
| {{col-end}} | |||
| ==Awards and nominations== | |||
| ===Professional=== | |||
| ''']''' | |||
| *2003: '''Won''' – Fan's Choice Award | |||
| *2003: Nominated – Favorite Male Artist – Pop or Rock | |||
| ''']''' | |||
| *2003: '''Won''' – Best Selling Single of 2003 – ''"]"'' | |||
| *2004: '''Won''' – Best Selling Christmas Album – '']'' | |||
| *2004: '''Won''' – Best Selling Christian Album – '']'' | |||
| *2005: '''Won''' – Best Selling Christian Album – '']'' | |||
| '''New Music Weekly Awards''' | |||
| *2004: '''Won''' – Top 40 Male Artist of the Year | |||
| '''American Christian Music Awards''' | |||
| *2005: '''Won''' – Outstanding Yule CD – '']'' | |||
| ===Achievement=== | |||
| *2005 Robert M. Barg Memorial Achievement Award<ref>, Caregiver.com April 21, 2005. Retrieved 2006-11-25.</ref> | |||
| *2006 UNC Charlotte Alumni Association Outstanding Young Alumnus Award<ref> UNC Charlotte Alumni Association. November 11, 2006. Retrieved 2006-11-19. (article archived)</ref> | |||
| *2007 National Center for Learning Disabilities' Children's Advocacy Award<ref> NCLD, Press release (April 2007). Retrieved 2007-04-27. (article archived)</ref> | |||
| *2009 The Family Circle Award from the Family Equality Council<ref>{{dead link|date=August 2013}} Clay Aiken, Linda Eder and More Hit Tavern for Family Equality broadway.com. April 21, 2009. Retrieved 2009-08-04</ref> | |||
| ==See also== | |||
| *] | |||
| *] | |||
| *] | |||
| *] | |||
| ==References== | |||
| {{Reflist|30em}} | |||
| ==External links== | |||
| {{Commons category}} | |||
| {{wikiquote}} | |||
| ===Official websites=== | |||
| *{{Official website|1=http://www.clayaiken.com}} | |||
| *{{YouTube|u=clayaiken}} | |||
| * | |||
| * | |||
| ===Reference Sites=== | |||
| *{{IMDb name|id=1341750|name=Clay Aiken}} | |||
| *{{IBDB name|470642}} | |||
| *{{Allmusic|class=artist|id=p559598|label=Clay Aiken}} | |||
| * at ] | |||
| *{{worldcat id|lccn-no2003-117618}} | |||
| <!--Please do not add additional fan sites to this page. The number and specific sites listed have been agreed upon. See "talk" for discussion. Thank you!--> | |||
| <!--* | |||
| *--> | |||
| {{Clay Aiken}} | |||
| {{American Idol 2}} | |||
| {{American Idol}} | |||
| {{Authority control}} | |||
| {{DEFAULTSORT:Aiken, Clay}} | |||
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Revision as of 02:12, 31 January 2017
he chill af.