By Yael T. Abouhalkah, Kansas City Star Editorial Page columnist
David Cook's smashing "American Idol" victory continues to bring immediate attention to his home of Blue Springs and the KC area. But what's the longterm effect here? Probably not much, frankly.
Sure, Cook will get a record contract. He will tour with the other "Idol" finalists. And I'm sure he will have some kind of homecoming concert in this area, bringing out his screaming fans.
But the kind of mania that swept the KC area regarding Cook will be short-lived. The "Cook rocks" signs will go into hibernation.
He will soon become one of the thousands of artists competing for the hard-earned dollars of music fans.
Cook will enjoy some fame because of his success on a TV show. But that won't sustain a career, as Jordin Sparks and a few other "Idol" winners have discovered to their dismay.
Cook will have to survive on his own talent, which is considerable.
Gee Yael, sounds like you have a bit of the "bitters"; either that or you don't have much of a taste for music unless it is pre-1950. Such a shame. As someone who is in the 40+ bracket and appreciates all genres of music, I can say with confidence that David Cook will achieve more success than any of his predecessors on American Idol. I doubt you'll post this reply since it goes against your "humble" opinion, but I feel compelled to respond. For the first time in American Idol history, the personn with (by far) the most talent won. He has charm, charisma, stage presence, originality, humilty, and I suppose this makes me cougar-esque, but good looks to boot. He is the whole package (maybe this is what is threatening to you and has you writing such a negative article). He makes many people who currently have hit careers look like complete amateurs. Thanks for the completely inaccurate assesment of his career though. I'm up for a nice wager on this subject if you are.