Paramus Singer Takes Fifth Crack At 'American Idol'

PARAMUS, N.J. -- Justin Daniel Sullivan of Paramus takes his fifth shot at "American Idol" in its final season, beginning with the premiere episode Wednesday on FOX.

Jerry DeMarco

01/05/2016 3:30 p.m.

A clip of Sullivan's audition -- which he said he expects to air next week -- has been used to promote the show.

“I’ve been singing since before I could walk,” Sullivan told Daily Voice, “and I’ve been a huge fan of Kelly Clarkson ever since she won the first 'American Idol'.”

As a result, he sang a tribute to Clarkson for his audition, accompanied on guitar by long-term friend and fellow Paramus High School graduate Lester Pernala.

In a clip posted on Facebook, Sullivan shows the judges a t-shirt that says "Mr. Clarkson." Harry Connick Jr. and Keith Urban then move a poster of Kelly Clarkson next to him (SEE: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanIdol/videos/10156151396735601/).

Sullivan, 23, who majored in popular music at William Paterson University, has auditioned for "American Idol" each of the past five years.

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