Jessica Sanchez--Fil Am Proud

Jessica Sanchez is now on the top eight---seven notches to go before the finale. This early, American Idol judges have predicted that she's a strong contender along with Colton Dixon, whose last performance was equally amazing. Many people think that Jessica's chances are at best fifty-fifty for one reason: the presumption that "white America" will not vote solidly behind an "Asian". This is a lingering perception which I want to discourage. 


I think America has learned to accept that their vast country is not just for "whites" but for everyone. The United States were established upon the strong foundations of democracy, and as a democracy, every single one is equal before the law and before the eyes of those who accept American culture.


Since the dawn of human civilization, there has never been a freer country than the United States. I am no stooge--I am just telling the truth. Of course, some would debate me about the level of freedom or liberality the United States gives to its citizens, but no one would ever dispute the fact that when it comes to individual rights, the government goes beyond its mandate just for its protection.


Jessica was born and raised in the United States by a Filipina mother and a Mexican of a father who serves the United States military. Jessica is a full-bodied American. Jessica's citizenship is American. Her blood, however, bears both Filipino and Mexican blood.


Filipino and Mexican--both races came under the colonial rule of America. During the Spanish times here, Filipinos and Mexicans were linked culturally. 


American Idol judges ask---where does Jessica gets the "angst" in her voice? She's already technically excellent but there is something still entirely Jessica's--the rich tone which evokes imagery and feelings when she sings.


Well, credit that to daily experience as a member of the minority group. Every single day, as what Jessica admitted, she and her family struggles. 


Her struggle is not just about livelihood---she struggles for recognition from the society where she was born. 


Her experience is not different from millions of others born and raised and living every single day in America. Many of them try to accept the perception of being "minority" or being "second class" citizens even those born and raised in America.


Credit that to a society which sees color as akin to financial status. However, the steady rise of minorities in the arts is helping improve the perception of many about skin and ability and talent.


Hence, for me, American Idol must rename itself, since it is becoming not just for "white America" but for every body. Or, probably, re-define the term "American" to mean "global citizens." Peoples of America must see themselves not just US citizens but global citizens united under the banner of democracy.

Jessica Sanchez American Idol--amazing!

Filipino or not, American or Mexican, Asian or Westerner, one thing is for sure--Jessica Sanchez is an amazing talent. Truly, this American Idol contestant may be the one the entire world is looking for---a fresh and young talent with an extraordinary voice that really touches the soul.


Touches the soul, that's right. For soooo long, the world has longed for a voice that would bring joy to those who lost their entire futures or those who have lost themselves in this crazy, ridiculous world dominated by parasitic Big Business. 


Jessica's voice is entirely different. She's kinda sexy. She's kinda sultry but not in a way that offends you. She puts every emotion in that voice. There's something in her voice that puts her on top, because it is entirely hers. A trademark voice, I should say, that appeals to every body, Asian or no Asian, American or no American.

Jessica Sanchez--the 16 year old phenom

Even if she does not win the American idol contest, I am definitely sure Jessica Sanchez's songs will be smash hits. I think she has that "x-factor" to make it to the Top, even higher than what Charice has already achieved in her young career.


Jessica Sanchez, at 16, is one damn singer. She's always at performance level. 


When she sang Whitney Houston's "I will always love you", I was actually resting in my bed. Her voice roused me from my stupor and it made me very interested in knowing more about this young lady. Really now, after that performance, I've surfed the net about her, and I already know that she's half-Filipina, but for me, it doesn't really matter if she is or she is not. The point is, I suddenly discovered myself, surfing and actually even viewing her Youtube video so many times already, I lost count. Her voice, for me, has no expiration date. It is something sellable, something you can actually bring with you everywhere and will not tire of listening. 


Jasmine is the only half-Filipina who has made it in the Top Two. Will Jessica be the one who will clinch the American Idol top post and made it as one of the most successful AI contestant ever? I think she is the one.

God's gift to the world

She appeals to every single one of us, who loves great music and appreciates great talent. Of course, this is a competition, so it depends on the American public who they wish is the next American Idol. 


I have one appeal though to everyone who reads this piece---stop breast-beating and claiming Jessica only for us, Filipinos.


Jessica belongs to the world now, and her blood, honestly, is not just Filipino, but American and Mexican. I think she is even the reincarnation of my idol, Selena. She has the same history as Selena's and belongs to a family like Selena's. But, unlike Selena, I hope Jessica lasts for as long as God wants us to enjoy her Heavenly Voice. 


She represents everybody, not just Filipino. When a Filipino comments on the AI page and claims Jessica, that Filipino alienates the rest of the American public and hence, affects her vote.


Jessica is simply not just for the Filipino people, but the pride of the world. Rarely do we see such an amazing performance and a talent that astounds every single soul.


As what Jennifer Lopez said to her shortly after her performance, I also want to tell her this--God bless You, Jessica. You're God's gift to humankind.