By Desiree Garza, University Relations Intern
Paul McDonald, son of UTC instructor Susan McDonald, won a golden ticket to Hollywood—he’ll be competing in American Idol after participating in the Nashville auditions January 27.
McDonald, 26, of Huntsville, Alabama, is a band member in the Grand Magnolias, formerly known as the HighTide Blues. The band has played in Chattanooga many times as well as other college campuses across the country. McDonald has been with the band for five years and started playing guitar in the ninth grade. He also plays the piano, he can sing, and he writes his own music.
His mother, Susan McDonald, said her family attended the Nashville auditions in the Ryman Auditorium. When asked what she thought of her son’s big win, she said, “I’m excited but kind of scared because it is going to change his life.”
McDonald also mentioned that her son was taken to Hollywood after winning his ticket. He has had a lot of fun and has met many great singers. Paul has always wanted to be a musician and he is very appreciative of his family, friends, and fans for helping him get to where he is now, she added.
For more information on Paul and the Grand Magnolias, visit his site at http://thepaulmcdonald.com/
