Photo Credit: FOX

David Archuleta

Age:

17

Hometown:

Murray, UT

San Diego auditioner Archuleta – who wowed the judges with his soulful rendition of John Mayer’s “Waiting on the World to Change” – made the top 12 after a childhood bout of vocal paralysis.

Currently a high school junior, Archuleta also made headlines five years ago when he took home top honors – and a cool $100,000 prize - as Star Search’s winning junior singer. Citing Natalie Cole and Stevie Wonder as musical influences, Archuleta has been winning over audiences with his good looks and aw-shucks demeanor.