By Brian Zanzonico
Danielle Fortunato, 19, a 2004 graduate of Sewanhaka High School, is one of six finalists remaining in 106.1 BLI's "Island Idol 2006."
The talent contest is the Long Island radio station's version of the popular television show "American Idol," which recently featured Levittown resident Covais. At Broadway Mall in Hicksville on April 22, Fortunato was one of more than a few hundred aspiring singers who auditioned before judges from BLI. She sang Whitney Houston's "I Will Always Love You" for 30 seconds for a chance at $5,000, $10,000 worth of time to record a demo at Five Towns College, a makeover from Cactus Salon and Day Spa, a limo into the city to meet a major record label's representatives and play them the demo tape, and a chance to perform at BLI events this summer.
On April 24, BLI announced the Island Idol Top 10, and Fortunato was one of them.
"I was sleeping," Fortunato said. "They announced it during the morning show. My mom came in and said, 'Danielle, you made the top 10."
On Monday, BLI announced Fortunato, who lists "American Idol" winner Kelly Clarkson as her favorite performer, advanced to the top 6. It's a bit of retribution for the Political Science major at Hofstra. Three years ago, Fortunato attended "American Idol" tryouts in Manhattan. She stayed in the city with her parents and best friend, and her father stayed on line overnight while she rested. She sang "I Will Always Love You" for Fox television producers, but wasn't invited to perform before Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson, the "American Idol" judges, in California.
"I think I was too young," she said.
Now, the classically trained soprano is close to becoming an "Island Idol."
Next week, more contestants will be voted off. To vote for Fortunato, visit www.wbli.com.
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