People should get used to pronouncing Creighton Fraker. It’s going to be a household name.
An Astoria resident for the past eight years, Fraker grabbed the ultimate brass ring for a star on the rise — a coveted golden ticket on Fox’s “American Idol.”
Fraker grew up as a preacher’s kid in South Dakota, finding his voice in church choirs and local boys’ singing groups. He took private lessons throughout the years and eventually joined a touring choir, serenading audiences across the nation.
He always knew he wanted to sing.
Eight-and-a-half years ago, Fraker moved east to the Big Apple.
In New York and out of work, he took to the streets, performing for crowds in public parks and on sidewalks. He waited tables and poured cocktails, anything to make ends meet.
Fraker’s 28th birthday this year marked his last chance to win a spot on “American Idol,” since the show enforces an age cut-off for contestants.
It was an opportunity Fraker seized.
He and two friends drove from New York to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania for the “American Idol” audition, each with dreams of stardom. The trio camped overnight on the sidewalk outside the stadium where auditions were held, along with thousands of other hopeful contestants.
For his turn in front of the judges, Fraker belted out Smokey Robinson’s “Who’s Lovin’ You,” as well as an untitled original piece.
“[The judges] had only good things to say,” said Fraker. “They were shocked at how unique I was.”
Influenced heavily by Michael Jackson, Fraker also admitted to the impression “American Idol” judge Steven Tyler has had on his sound.
“[Steven Tyler] has always been a big idol of mine,” said Fraker. “It’s more than insane to hear him commenting on my music.”
Of the three hopefuls that traveled together, Fraker was the only one to make it to Hollywood.
With the golden ticket clutched in his hand, Fraker dialed his mother. He wanted her to be the first to hear the news.
“I was elated,” he said. “I was so excited to find out that I hadn’t been waiting around in line for nothing.”
With the first “Hollywood Week” behind him, Fraker looks forward to his future on “American Idol” and the musical ventures to follow.
“I was struggling to find a way to pay my rent before now,” said Fraker. “Now, there’s a hope of becoming a household name. It’s completely [turned] my whole world [around].”
“American Idol” airs Wednesdays and Thursdays on Fox 5.
