William Hung

William Hung, a Soultype 5 Civil Engineering student from UC Berkeley, touched the hearts of Americans with his enthusiastic rendition of Ricky Martin's "She Bangs" at the American Idol TV auditions in January. You can see video of William's performance on the American Idol website. Since then his website has had over 7 million hits, he has been on numerous TV and radio programs, and parodied on Saturday Night Live.

WordTracker.com reports that "William Hung has more web searches than such stars as newlywed Jessica Simpson, the rapper Eminem, and even American Idol's own Clay Aiken (another SoulType 5)."People are responding to the enormously engaging energy of William Hung. Simon Cowell, an American Idol judge famous for his scathing reviews of contestant performances, commented about Hung's performance, "You can't sing, and you can't dance, so what do you want me to say."

William's unassuming and clear thinking response was, "I already gave my best and I have no regrets at all." True, he could not sing or dance in a professionally trained manner. In fact, American Idol used a video of his audition to demonstrate how not to perform - yet he instantaneously shot to stardom because he came forth, full out, with his SoulType 5 strength. He went into the unknown with a passion for something he loved (singing), with no concern for appearances, and America loved him for it.

He has given people everywhere the courage to do the same. One quote from a fan really says it all: I created my website because we love William Hung! He may not be the best singer to audition for American Idol but he is extremely passionate. His enthusiasm can give all of us inspiration. Every time I hear or see a video clip of Willy performing I smile. If I'm having a bad day I'll stop and listen to a few MP3's or watch his original audition tape. That is guaranteed to bring a smile to my face.--Benjamin Fitts Read more about William at CNN.com.

#10 - 3/12/04