Sherman Pore touched viewers’ hearts on television earlier this year on “American Idol” — and now he is reaching out to the nation again, this time to benefit those with cancer.
Pore first gained fame when he qualified for a tryout on American Idol — even though he was 36 years over the popular TV program’s age limit of 28 — by carrying a petition signed by nearly 350 people supporting his bid to be a contestant. Pore then told a touching story of losing his wife of 20 years to ovarian cancer.
A year later, Pore has recorded a CD of standards titled “For My Lady Love.” Pore’s label, Z-Entertainment, will donate $1 from every CD to City of Hope’s programs in cancer research, treatment and education, and Pore has been named as an ambassador for the organization.
“For My Lady Love” is a collection of classic love songs, ranging from “You Belong to Me” to “Unforgettable” (the latter made famous by Pore’s real-life American idol, Nat King Cole). The album not only supports efforts against cancer, but also represents a solemn promise kept and the ultimate tribute to Pore’s love.
“As far back as I can remember, people have been telling me I should do something with my singing,” said Pore, a Los Angeles maintenance mechanic. “But there is no way — no way on Earth — I could have done it if it weren’t for Melissa. She convinced me I was good enough.” After a months-long struggle with ovarian cancer, Melissa died only two days before Pore auditioned.
After Pore waited six hours in line to try out, his long petition was enough to put him in front of an audition supervisor, who made a one-time exception to let him try out. Always-emotional American Idol judge Paula Abdul was reduced to tears by Pore’s performance, but fellow judges Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and guest judge Olivia Newton-John also were visibly moved. Cowell went so far as to declare, “You’re a class act, Sherman.”
Pore’s support means a lot to City of Hope. “We’re honored to be a part of Sherman’s incredible story,” said Britta Bucholz, senior director of development. “City of Hope’s scientists are leading the future of medicine, so that women like Melissa can receive the most advanced treatment possible for cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.”
For more information, visit Pore’s Web site. The CD is available through iTunes, Walmart and ebay.
