As a young Mexican/American Crooner, A.J. Gil (born July 5, 1984) topped number 8 in the first season of the smash hit television show, “American Idol.” Giving him overnight recognition for his unforgettable rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner,” A.J. was instantly named a Latin heartthrob. This R&B/Pop singer became a favorite to many viewers around the world. Abner Juda Gil was born in San Diego, California to Martin and Teresa Gil. He is the fourth of ten children. Though born in San Diego, he spent the beginning of his childhood years in Mexico, experiencing hardships and extreme poverty. Despite his way of living and the limited resources to music, it did not discourage this true musician. His passion so deep, by age seven, A.J. taught himself to play music by practicing on his father’s old guitar and utilizing buckets to learn the drums; soon after he found interest in the piano. Today he has mastered these three instruments and incorporates them into his craft. Both his Spanish heritage and American roots are imbedded in all of his projects. Finally, at age ten, A.J. and his family relocated to Tacoma, Washington, where he spent the remainder of his childhood years. While in high school A.J. was part of the choir and many talent shows. He entered into the “All State North West Choir” competition, where only one student from each city was chosen. A.J. was successful and secured the only spot available. Here is where his talent began to flourish and mature. It was at the age of 17 when A.J.’s mother brought to his attention an audition that was being held for the highly anticipated first season of American Idol. A.J. decided to put his vocal skills to the test and was successful. His note worthy performance piece was “The National Anthem”. Simon called A.J. “A worthy contestant.” His vocal styles and personality led him into the top 8 finalist of American Idol, generating over 500,000 votes. After the Idol Tour in 2002, A.J. made the decision to take some time off to focus on polishing his craft. He decided to move to Los Angeles and attend a technical school for audio engineering. A.J. is now a well-rounded artist. His musical and technical ability has ripened, with the guitar becoming his primary instrument and piano his secondary. He has transformed into a fully developed artist. “A.J. is Latin-America’s best kept secret, a real find”, says a label representative. His songs are relationship supporting, dance floor enhancing, and cruise soothing. A.J.’s enhanced vocals, instrumental skills and creative writing abilities are the driving force in his new material. With the title “The first Mexican-American, true R&B sensation”, we invite you to experience “A.J. Gil”.
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