No Longer IDOLizing Chris Daughtry

February 21, 2007

Dear Chris,

I cheered you on. I voted for you countless times. I sat in shock the night you prematurely exited Idol. And, yes, I even bought your album and liked it. But after reading Michael Endelman's article on you in the February 23rd issue of Entertainment Weekly, I have decided that you, Chris, need some serious unsolicited advice.

What's up, dog? You are living out millions of guys' fantasies. You were a suburban dad who is now a true rock star with critical and mass appeal. The girls are digging you. The guys think your cool. Your making cash doing what you love and the critics said your album was solid. So what's with the whining? You tell EW that you don't like being introduced as Chris from American Idol. Would you rather be Chris from the McLeansville Honda dealership? Let's not forget that without Idol, you were stuck in North Carolina despite your undisputed talent and rocker look. You say, "There's this misconception that you get famous and everything is perfect. "If anything, it's harder." Come on, man! I mean I get that you have been thrown into a whirlwind situation which comes with stress, pressure and I'm sure strain on marriage and family but your fans don't want to hear that your life is harder now that they've annointed you to rock star status. Remember all those nights where you stared into the camera motioning for us to "call in your number." You held up your fingers with hope burning in your eyes. We listened. We did it. We, your fans, wanted to make your dreams come true. Some of us even wanted to live vicariously through you so, please, stop the complaining. Talk to your wife when you want to vent. Tell her that "it's frustrating" dealing with being an American Idol. Confide in her that you are happy you didn't win because then you would be "considered pop." But publicly, suck it up, Chris. Smile. If you can't enjoy the ride, let us.

Sincerely,

Amanda

P.S. You don't need multiple silver rings. One is enough!