Gone Country 3: Justin Guarini
Justin Guarini is one of the celebrities participating in this season of Gone Country 3. He shares his thoughts about the upcoming experience.
My name is Justin Guarini and I think I'm most known for the work that I did on the first season of American Idol. I came in runner-up to Kelly Clarkson on the first season, and ever since then I've been working in film, television and music, and also marketing and on the radio.
You know, I have been blessed to have been working for the past six years consistently, and mostly below the radar. And so I think this show for me was a brand new challenge, and yet something that I've been leaning towards. My writing, especially when I write when I play guitar, has a more country soul attitude. So this show is an amazing opportunity to get to know -- and also have them know me -- a brand new audience. That is an amazing audience and a loyal audience if you can get it right. I watched a few episodes of the first season; I didn't want to watch too much. I think it's going to be six of us living in a house, trying to deal with each other's personalities, but also dealing with the challenges of country living. I feel fortunate; I've grown up in the south, so I don't mind shoveling dung. I'm not going to shy away from that, you know. I'm from Columbus, Georgia. So those sort of country living things I don't think are going to affect me negatively.
What else I expect is a lot of good material to write with. I think it's going to be interesting and I think that all of us being isolated in that house, well obviously I can't speak for everybody else, but I would say for me, being isolated in the house is going to do me some musical good. I'm really going to have to focus in a way that I might not otherwise be able to. It's going to be fun for me to participate in, and I think it's going to be fun to watch. And I think that my fans may see a whole new side of me, in a good way. I'm excited. I'm really excited. I love adventure, I love something new, and I think this season is going to be really awesome.
©2008 Country Music Television, Inc., a Viacom company. A division of
crystal says:
i agree with country is cool no way was ever that talented or as talented enough to be 2nd place on american idol this coming from a kc fan he did not have a tenth of talent she has good looks only get u so far
Jim Malec says:
Oh dear lord. Seriously?
Siren says:
Justin will do well on Gone Country. The music he has produced in recent years is a cut above anything he did on Idol. He is going to surprise some folks and he will definitely gain new fans.
mereed3929 says:
Of course Justin is a phenomenal talent, and people will remember that again when they see him on this show. This is the same thing that happened to those who watched AI Rewind last year, it was a revelation to them — ‘ooooh yeah, this guy Justin is realllly good! oops.’ lol. So I expect that to happen again.
The question that popped into my mind when I read the first two comments here is why do Kelly’s fans still feel so insecure about her after all this time, that they’re compelled to post they think she’s ‘better,’ as if that’s relevant. Is she going to be on this show too? lol, I don’t think so. Let it rest, kfans, Justin’s moved on, and so should you! jmo.
Looking forward to a GREAT season of Gone Country with Justin, George Clinton, Sheila E., Taylor, Tara, Richard AND Mickey! Great great cast this year. This is going to be fun. :)
CityKitty says:
This group of contestants is really talented, including Justin. I think it is common knowledge by now that American Idol was feeling it’s way the first season and Justin being the second place finisher wasn’t promoted by AI, they realized that was a mistake and as American Idol went forward the show did a much better job promoting contestants after the show was finished.
I know Justin plays several instruments and writes music as well, so I’m looking forward to what he can do on this show, should be a fun group.
BettyAnna says:
Poor Justin…kc is dropping her fourth album…and he’s again looking for his break on a talent show. Pitiful.
Audrey in Guelph says:
I DON”T see why justin can’t get more work . he is a excellent singer he needs to be on top let’s go justin
pat says:
I’m really looking forward to seeing Justin on tv again too!
Justin is an all around great performer and he brings the fun, the charisma, the musicianship, creativity and Star quality that will be sure to shine throughout the show.
For anyone who hasn’t seen or heard Justin perform since his Idol days, all I can say is watch Justin again for the very first time. His talent will win you over as it always does when people get a chance to really see and hear him perform.
Soldier On Justin!
pat says:
Gee, country may be cool but you certainly aren’t.
Justin has been singing since the age of 4 and he impressed the judges, the other contestants and watching all over the country with his beautiful smooth vocals and heartfelt singing.
I’m sure you remember Simon saying that it was a great treat getting to hear talent like Justin’s and how he then had to admit the talent in America was better than in England. And I’m sure you remember how Paula said that if people looked up the term “It Factor” Justin’s picture would be there.
Of course Justin had and continues to have the beautiful smile, charisma and beautiful hair, but the millions of fans that voted for him and who were impressed with his talent were definitely not only little girls. They were young and old and everyone who appreciated that he had the whole package of what it took to be the American Idol.
You are of course entitled to your opinion, but whatever Justin has accomplished has had absolutely nothing to do with riding anyone’s coat tails. He writes, plays instruments, acts, entertains, hosts and does all the things he does on his own merits and because of his own talents.
It should be interesting to see what fans say after getting to see and hear him perform again.
I think everyone should keep an open mind, and wish the best to all the contestants.
LM says:
I’m looking forward to seeing Justin on Gone Country. He’s an extremely talented guy who got a raw deal during that first season of American Idol. It takes more than talent to have a successful career. Unfortunately, Justin never had the right people behind him to guide his career as a new artist at that time. AI was invested in making sure the winner was a success that year and Justin’s promising career got lost in the shuffle. He didn’t let it get him down, though. He’s carved out a career for himself and has been steadly working. But it would be wonderful if music could be his focus. His fans are hungry for music from him. I think people who aren’t familiar with him are going to be blown away.
PB says:
BettyAnna, GROW UP! I hope Kelly’s forth album does better than her 3rd one. Good or bad the American public will be forced fed the album by all the pop stations throughout America.
Joyce says:
I am psyched to see Justin in Gone Country 3. I loved his performance of Desperado during the AI Vegas special. Gone Country is a fun show and I am sure Justin and all the other contestants will make it entertaining. January 24th can’t get here soon enough.
countryiscool says:
Reminds me of a younger version of Richard Simmons.
Michelle says:
Justin I hope it works out how you want it to!
countryiscool says:
Oh well Pat, never said you had to agree with me- just MY opinion, that’s what these blogs are for, right? I still stand by what I said.
Susan says:
Justin is very talented and has been busy in the industry since American Idol. Check him out on TV Guide Network. Kelly Clarkson is talented as well, but has had her share of problems in her career. Why is it necessary to bash someone else to be a fan? I am looking forward to seeing Justin perform on Gone County.
Sam. says:
Saw him perform in Michigan and he was outstanding in every way. Total natural with great charm.
Terri says:
One more day to see the show and I’m psyched! I’m anxious to see how they all do on the show, but moreso about Justin. His charm and talent continue to win new people/fans over every day.
Stacie says:
I just saw the commerical for Gone Country and saw that Justin is going to be on the show. When he was on American Idol, I always thought he was talented and that he seemed to have a fun personality, can’t wait for the show tonight! It should be entertaining.
Lou Boyens says:
Watched Gone Country 3 last night and was very pleased to see Justin on. He has many great talent’s and I am personally rootin’ for him. Can’t wait to hear the song he will write for country. I am a 74 year old Grandma and his smile alone would have won me over.
Peaches says:
I’ve always appreciated Justin’s talents and am anxious to hear more from him. He has what it takes to win this and I am routing for him. Whether he wins or not, he will learn from this experience, as he does with everything he encounters in life.
The show is off to a great start and I am looking forward to what Justin does on here.
Soldier On Justin!
Siren says:
It was great seeing Justin on Gone Country 3. He surely rose to the occasion and performed well at the club. He and George Clinton make interesting roommates. This is going to be a fun season with many talented participants.
GalacticGal says:
My hubby and I stumbled onto Gone Country 3 by happenstance just last night, so we caught a repeat of the season 3 premiere! I’ve been a Justin Guarini fan since the very first season of AI. He’s got such an amazing singing voice, and a stage presence to compliment it. He is the whole package. I look forward to watching this show and more importantly, watching Justin again. What a joy! All the best, Justin!
Molly says:
What a great group on Gone Country. I like the premise, it appears to be all about songwriting. I was excited to see Justin on the show, can’t wait to see what kind of song he writes. I’m hoping for a love song, no one sings a love song better than Justin!
Chris says:
It was such a fun show to watch. I think they never had a better cast than this year. I’m really looking forward to hear more from that curly haired boy Justin. Could be my favourite this season.
Jackie says:
Justin will do great. He is a part of country in his soul, he sang “Desperado” and other country songs on American Idol. He has a voice that is awesome. I will be there to vote him on.
hotLeGz87 says:
I agree with Jackie - Justin will not only do great but he does have the “it” factor to make it on that show. His voice has depth and range and like he said, “country/soul” and he’s an awesome performer as he gives his all when he puts on a performance. I will be there to root for him and I don’t really care what people think of my thoughts on Justin.
As far as I’m concerned, he will rise above his critics and naysayers. And Justin, I ♥ you, if you see this.
Stacie says:
This is a really good cast! Justin is always his good natured self but I swear, I have no idea how he will ever get any sleep with George as his roommate. I love that Justin is comfortable with a guiter, I had no idea he even played.
Anyway, I’m enjoying the show and look forward to next week.
Sheila says:
…you can see how comfortable Justin is with a guitar and a classic country song on youtube.
Since they don’t allow to post links here, you will have to complete this one:
youtube.com/watch?v=Ws3jn-VeZ4o
scarfy says:
don;t give justin a hard time. give it your all justin.
NancyLK says:
I’ve been watching Gone Country since season one, and I’m impressed with this year’s cast. But Justin seems to have all the elements in his favor, and if he wins (like I hope he does) I predict that he will be the first to have an actual “country career” launched from this show. Go Justin!
diane says:
Justin had the same support from AI as Diana Degarmo..None..But I hope he gets treated better on Gone country than she did..I hope John learned from the first season…They are both extremely talented young people..And they both have struggled after AI..Diana should have won..At least Justin will have a chance..John seems to like to pick guys..
Amy says:
Justin, Soldier On is awesome!!
Sheila says:
I just LOVE, LOVE, LOVE you, Justin. You’re beautiful in every way.
Kathy says:
I hate when people actually take the time to go his blogs and say hurtful, hateful things .. no matter the person.. with all the ugly going on in the world why not leave a word of encouragement. give him respect for never swaying ..not even for a minute from doing what he loves.. and he is great at what he does. There are not to many people out here today with a voice as pure. He gives so much to his fans and people he loves and refuses to lower himself to fight back with people who say bad things about him so show some class and respect. If you don’t care for him and what he does just pass on by.Now all of that being said.. Justin darlin keep being you… you are magnificent …
Amy says:
Question. Is there any way viewers of GC3 can download the songs that each contestant wrote? This is definately the best season of GC3 yet and I don’t know how JR is going to choose. A lot of the songs are great and I would hate to see them get lost just because John chose someone else. Any thoughts on providing yours (and the other contestant’s songs) for download anywhere?
Lissa says:
I’d love to hear the full version of Justin’s song. He really is a gifted singer and fantastic performer. He comes off so genuine. Enjoyed watching him on Gone Country3. I ceratinly hope he is given the opportunity to do music on a wider scale. I’ll definitely be listening out for you, Justin! Good luck with all your future endeavours.
Kathy says:
hey all, Justin has a radio talk show On blogtalkradio, he talks about what he is doing and what he has done .. It is really, really great. He also features new artists, has special guests and talks about music,life and love… and anything else his fans want to talk about. Justin has a chat room “adviser ” Olivia Wilder, who takes excellent care of his callers. She is wise and hilarious and also has her own radio talk show on blogtalkradio )you can also call in and ask him questions about whatever topic he is talking about at the time.All of his radio shows are archived so you won’t miss a thing. he is also doing Fancast video blogs about this years American Idol contestants. He and Kimberly Caldwell are just starting “Idol Tonight” He interviews season 8 contestants and gives the viewers an expert insight about how everyone this season is doing and how they are holding up under the pressure of what must be a nerve wrecking process. Anywho… I would ramble on for hours about what this amazing talented man does, but you should check it out for yourself. He seems to have his hand in everything right now.
Abubbemobby says:
The action taken to local and national disasters is great but it’s a real shame that so many citizens take advantage of the sad situations.
I mean everytime there is an earthquake, a flood, an oil spill - there’s always a group of heartless people who rip off tax payers.
This is in response to reading that 4 of Oprah Winfreys “angels” got busted ripping off the system. Shame on them!
http://www.cbsnews.com/blogs/2009/08/19/crimesider/entry5251471.shtml