Performance: Craig Manning
Craig was nervous for the first time in a long time. Back home everyone knew who he was and knew his music, but here he was staring all over again as he stepped out on the stage with his guitar.
He had his girl help him pick out something to wear to make sure he looked suitable for the stage. He invited Joey and Lila to come to watch the opening night tonight, too. Angie was too small and stayed home with a sitter.
The lights shone brightly in his eyes, but he managed to wink down at Lila, or where he knew she was sitting and smiled as he began strumming his guitar and singing the song.
What would you think if I sang out of tune Would you stand up and walk out on me? Lend me your ears and I'll sing you a song And I'll try not to sing out of key Oh I get by with a little help from my friends Mm I get high with a little help from my friends Mm gonna try with a little help from my friends
That first chorus would highlight his voice perfectly. Craig had the tone of an experienced singer and it showed as he went on, strumming, standing near the microphone to be sure the audience could hear him.
What do I do when my love is away? (Does it worry you to be alone?) How do I feel by the end of the day? (Are you sad because you're on your own?) No I get by with a little help from my friends Mm I get high with a little help from my friends Mm gonna try with a little help from my friends
(Do you need anybody?) I need somebody to love (Could it be anybody?) I want somebody to love
He made sure to make eye contact with the judges, the crowd, even if he technically could not see their eyes in the harsh stage lighting. He looked their way though, making it known he was singing to everyone around him.
(Would you believe in a love at first sight?) Yes I'm certain that it happens all the time (What do you see when you turn out the light?) I can't tell you, but I know it's mine Oh I get by with a little help from my friends Mm I get high with a little help from my friends Oh I'm gonna try with a little help from my friends
(Do you need anybody?) I just need someone to love (Could it be anybody?) I want somebody to love
Oh I get by with a little help from my friends Mm gonna try with a little help from my friends Oh I get high with a little help from my friends Yes I get by with a little help from my friends With a little help from my friends
As he slowed down and hit the final notes, he could already hear the applause around him and he smiled big and bowed for the crowd as he caught his breath and waited till the applause died down before giving them all a final wave and heading backstage again.
(start at 37 - with a little help from my friends)