Fiery-haired vocalist and former American Idol contestant John Stevens was born in 1987 and raised in East Amherst, NY. His love for jazz, big band, and swing began with the discovery of his grandparents' record collection. Stevens found kindred spirits in the works of Dean Martin, Duke Ellington, and most importantly Frank Sinatra. It was his spot-on emulation of Sinatra's singing style and old-fashioned mannerisms that kept him in contention well into season three. After participating in the obligatory postseason Idol tour, he signed with Maverick Records. Red, a collection of covers and standards, was released in June of 2006. ~ James Christopher Monger