Bay Area ‘American Idol’ standouts Martin, Leer sign recording deals
They might not have won the ultimate prize this past season on “American Idol,” but Bay Area musicians Francisco Martin and Grace Leer are reaping the rewards from their appearances on the popular TV singing contest.
Both Martin and Leer announced last week that they have signed record deals with 19 Recordings, the record label arm of 19 Entertainment, the production company behind “American Idol.”
Martin, a resident of Daly City and former student at San Mateo Community College, made it all the way to the Season 18 finale of “American Idol” and finished in the Top 5 after being declared an early favorite by judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel
Richie.
Along the way, the Terra Nova High School alum spoke candidly about his struggles to overcome anxiety and insecurity while chasing his dream. Martin announced the
news on his Instagram account.
“I got a record deal! this is flipping crazy!!!” he wrote. “A new chapter has opened up in my life and I’m so excited for you guys to be a part of it. … A thank you to American Idol for giving me the opportunity to pursue a career in music. And a thousand thank yous to you guys for continuing your support and love for me and my art. I love each and everyone of you and can’t wait to ride on this journey with you guys by my side. You guys are the reason why I continue to do what I love.”
Leer, a native of Danville who attended San Ramon Valley High School and UC Berkeley, made the “Idol” Top 10, mainly on the strength of her country-tinged vocals.
Last spring, Leer told the Bay Area News Group of the pivotal decision she made after graduating from Cal to finally commit to a music career.
In announcing her big news in an Instagram post, Leer wrote, “HOLY CRAP I GOT A RECORD DEAL !!!!!
Guys this doesn’t feel real. When you’re a kid you are always asked what you want to be when you grow up and my answer was always “a singer.” … I would draw photos of me on a big stage with a microphone in my hand. I have prayed for this and I have manifested this my entire life. MUSIC IS NOW MY FULL TIME JOB. I keep pinching myself that this is all happening.
“When I got the news I fell on the floor and bursted into tears. For the past few months this has been in the works, and I have so many people to thank … but this would not have been possible without ALL OF YOU and especially @americanidol. Idol, you gave me the opportunity and the stage to make this happen.”
In her message, Leer announced that she had signed with Red Light Management in Nashville, Tennessee, and promised, “you guys are going to be hearing new music soon.”
“I am so excited to officially be working with people who see me for who I am and want to help make my visions come to life,” she added.