American Idol Star Malakar Rides Wave of Fan Support

Sanjaya Malakar is probably not the strongest candidate among the remaining participants on American Idol, but don't bother telling him that. While you are at it, forget to let his fans know that, as well. With his flowing hair and magnetic personality, Malakar has attracted a throng of fans that seems set on guiding this idol underdog to certain victory.

Though Malakar has been admittedly weaker than many participants in the recent rounds of popular Fox reality show American Idol, those adoring fans and folks from his home state of Washington have carried him through to the later rounds. His success has come in the rounds of viewer elimination, where the internet junkies have sent a clear message that they want Malakar to stay around as long as possible.

Malakar hails from a place called Federal Way in Washington. With 84,000 residents, it's not the smallest town in America, but it's certainly not the biggest. It's likely that Malakar has gotten the online vote of each of those citizens and has needed a number more to overcome what has become pretty harsh criticism from those who judge musical talent. Following each round, the crowing singer gets blasted by the judges. Simon Cowell, who is known for his candid analysis of talent, has gone so far as to say that he'd quit were Malakar to win the contest.

Malakar's previous singing experience came as a part of a modest religious group. He sings with Washington's Total Experience Gospel Choir, who aren't the least bit surprised that their comrade has made it this far.

"He sings from the heart, and people who hear him can feel that heart and they become, many times, very emotional," said Pastor Pat Wright, who has been Malakar's minister and musical leader for the better part of three years.

Much of Malakar's success with the public stems from his ability to stand up well in the face of heated pressure and criticism. Though everyone seems to have an opinion on his ability, he still gets on the stage and sings his own style.

There seem to be some unlikely support networks helping keep the singer's quest alive, though. A website created by Howard Stern is one of those sources. Votefortheworst.com, which was created in 2004 to support some of the worst singers on the show, has thrown its full support behind the singer.

For now, Malakar's not worried about that. He's content to get on the stage and sing the way that Pat Wight and the Total Experience Gospel Choir know he can.

http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/wireStory?id=2988365