Feb. 17--Manny Torres moved from Michigan to Chicago in 2013 to try to make it in the music industry.
In just two years, Torres has gone from being a church and wedding singer to a frontrunner on the 15th and final season of "American Idol."
Torres, 21, will perform Coldplay's "Adventure of a Lifetime" in Wednesday's episode to try to land a spot in the top 14. The contestants sing with former "Idol" winners and finalists in Thursday's episode before it's revealed which singers are advancing in the Fox competition.
Torres and "Idol" winner Jordin Sparks will perform "No Air" from her 2007 self-titled album.
It's a change of pace for Torres, who was recently taking classes at Harold Washington College in pursuit of a finance degree while balancing performing at clubs and working at Park Community Church on the North Side.
"When it comes to the music industry, you have to pretty much jump on every opportunity you can," said Torres, who lives in Logan Square. "I went for it."
Torres has impressed "Idol" judges Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick, Jr. with his relatability and energy.
He said he's learned to channel his energy and overcome exhaustion from months of late-night performances at Chicago bars coupled with early-morning church duties.
"I handle it well because I've always pushed myself to handle it well," Torres said. "Honestly, I keep the goal in the mind. I keep focus and I have my eyes set on the prize."
Torres, who describes his voice as "soulful John Legend," said his goal is to make a comfortable living performing and recording music.
"I want to make sure that each performance I treat it like it's the last performance on the 'American Idol' stage and leave everything out there," Torres said.
"Idol" airs 7 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays. The top 10 contestants are expected to be revealed next week and viewers will be able to vote to keep their favorites.
