Shaun Francisco

Updated Thu. Jun. 26 2008 10:57 AM ET

Voted off Top 24

It's interesting that Shaun Francisco's favourite number is 24 - since it's a year with a Top 24 on Canadian Idol.

Shaun auditioned for Season 5 of Canadian Idol and made it to Toronto, but according to the judges, wasn't ready for the Top 22. "The judges told me I had to be interesting as a performer, but not to compromise who I was. I took what they said and anticipated my audition for Season 6 all year long, and when it came, I understood how much making it would mean to me. I actually started to believe in myself and wanted to perform sincerely."

His confidence as a performer rose to a new level during auditions this year and won over the judges, who put him through to the Top 24. "Instead of focusing on what other competitors could do, I was able to focus on what I could do. I learned not to think about what I didn't have, or wished I had, but all the great things that I did have."

Through the ups and downs of auditioning for Canadian Idol, his family and friends back home in Vancouver have been there for Shaun. "I think my ability and my optimism have gotten me this far in the competition but I have amazing people around me who believe in my ability. I am so grateful I have their support."

Shaun admires the tenacity that Season 5 competitor Greg Neufeld showed in the face of adversity. "He never gave up after he was eliminated from the Top 22 in Season 4. Instead he came back the next year bigger and better."

Shaun hopes his sincerity and love of music always comes through while he's on the show. "I want people to see that, beyond the fancy stage and bright lights, I'm just a regular guy who wants to do what he loves for the rest of his life, and I am so lucky to have this opportunity."

Song List

Top 24 - Yellow (Coldplay)