Does 3rd Class Philip Stacey have what it takes to be the next American Idol?

[CommunityEditor]

Musician 3rd Class Philip Stacey, 29, stationed with the Navy Band in Jacksonville, Fla., just might become America's next 'Idol'.

In a taped interview on the show’s Web site, Stacey mentions his life’s ambition: If he wins “Idol,” he’ll use his fame as a springboard to political office, because he “would be a great president of the world.”

The polar opposite will apply if viewers eliminate him, Stacey said.

“I believe that if I don’t become the next American Idol, I’ll probably curl up into a ball and cry myself to sleep.”

Have you been watching? Do you think he's got a chance to be our next Idol?

[STS2129]

Sorry to say, but no - he has talent but no where as good as the woman this year!! This weeks performance was rough at first but he came through in the end - may not be as lucky next time

[leftbehind_guest]

I noticed in a couple of pictures of him that he was not wearing his uniform. Hmm, must be he didn't think it appropriate to use it to further his gains, unlike a certain woman officer.

[dourdan]

it would be nice to see a service member succeed on that show

[CommunityEditor]

Video clip of last night's performance: http://www.militarytimes.com/multime...8americanidol/

Latest update: http://www.militarytimes.com/news/20...y_idol_070327/

[CommunityEditor]

Update: Sailor impresses again on ‘Idol’ (http://www.militarytimes.com/news/20...y_idol_070424/)

Not that I want to stir things up much but. Is he Active duty or reserve? Is he drawing military pay and benefits for his 6 months with the show? If he wins, then what? Does he get out or go to reservist status.

[CommunityEditor]

Update: Fox releases Phil Stacey tour dates (http://www.militarytimes.com/news/20...ytour_070502w/)

[CommunityEditor]

Final update: http://www.militarytimes.com/news/20...stacey_070502/

[avcm2001]

I have been retired about a year and a half. During the course of my career I was served on some senior staffs and observed what leadership would do to retain and compensate talent. The two things I observed most of were the conversions of military billets to GS or contract billets. The GS positions were as high as GS 15(I saw three of these) and many lower. Most often contract billets served as the fastest avenue to retain talent or as a hold over until the GS position was created and funded.

So here is Petty Officer Stacey who didn't get naked or half-naked. Didn't sing anything that was border line racy. This young man has many options ahead of him and he has a young family to take care of as well. Anyone who has had to raise a family on 3rd class pay knows it is tough. So to my former employer take note that this young man can contribute in a positive way to the recruiting program for a few more years. Offer him a contract to tour with a Navy band and you will attract more potential recruits than you would at a high school performance. Simple plan and well deserved in my humble opinion.

Petty Officer Stacey, god bless you and your family and thank you for representing all of us that serve. I wish you nothing but the best in whatever you decide is best for you and your family. Try and take a breather and enjoy your wife and children and thank them for the support they give to you. Children grow and change so fast and you never get a second chance at the special moments along the way.

Respectfully,

Carl Hatfield

Retired and loving it.