Preston Duffee is a singer and songwriter based in Hartsville, S.C. He is among the singers who appearing on Season 21 of American Idol.
Who is Preston Duffee?
Preston Duffee began singing in church from an early age. He got his first guitar when he was 8, teaching himself to play with the aid of YouTube videos. In 2019, he graduated from Hartsville High School and went on to study mechanical engineering at the Florence-Darlington Technical College.
For the past five years, he has been sharing his music online and performing at various venues along South Carolina’s coastline, including Myrtle Beach and Murrell’s Inlet.
In 2022, Preston released his debut single titled “Something to Write About”. He has had the opportunity to collaborate with The Voice contestant Ashland Craft. He also performed alongside the former American Idol Danny Gokey at a show at a Civic Center.
Preston Duffee on American Idol 21
Duffee, a 21-year-old, made an audition for American Idol and was able to win the judges’ hearts with his original song ‘Something to write about’, which he wrote in memory of his late mom.
Unfortunately, Preston’s mother had been battling bipolar disorder and depression, and it became more and more intense as time went on. His life changed drastically when his mother took her own life in the presence of her loved ones, who were gathered for a cookout. In the aftermath, Preston and his sister were left sorrowful and without the means to maintain themselves or their home. Without their mom’s unwavering support, the past few months have been incredibly difficult for them.
Music proved to be a life-saver for Preston during the difficult times he faced. “Music has truly been a lifesaver, helping me cope and even providing food on my table,” he recalled.
His sister Shannon also encouraged him saying that she (mom) had full faith in him. “I think [mom] knew you could do great things,” she added.
During the event, Duffee shared an original composition titled “Something to write about,” which was inspired by the trials faced in life and how comforting it can be to realise that those difficult moments create meaning and purpose in life and music.
About American Idol 21
American Idol is back and better than ever for its twenty-first season! This sixth season since the show’s revival is hosted by Ryan Seacrest, with judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie. The audition process has changed drastically due to Covid-19; this season has seen the introduction of the remote auditions that took place from August 3 to September 14, 2022.
In addition, the show brought back the “Platinum Ticket,” which gives three lucky contestants the chance to advance directly to Hollywood Week and pick their duet partners.
The journey to becoming America’s next singing idol is a long and hard one. However, viewers are able to follow along every step of the way and root for their favorites. From the regional auditions to Hollywood Week to the grueling live shows, American Idol provides an up-close look at some of the best up-and-coming talent out there. It’s an emotional roller coaster for everyone involved, filled with plenty of surprises and intense performances.
This season of American Idol looks like it will be full of moments that will stick with viewers for years to come. Let’s all stay tuned to see what amazing talent American Idol season 21 has in store!
