Fritz Hager is going to be one of the American Idol contestants we’re always going to remember. From his audition to his final performances, Fritz made us swoon with his effortless charm and amazing vocals. Even though he didn’t win American Idol, this is just the beginning for him.
So, who is Fritz? From details about his audition to his former everyday job, HollywoodLife has rounded up everything you need to know about the talented singer from Texas.
1. Fritz sang a Lewis Capaldi song for his audition.
With his guitar, Fritz performed Lewis Capaldi’s “Before You Go” for the Idol judges. Katy Perry told Fritz that the “chorus was pretty good,” and he had “a lot of potential.” Lionel Richie agreed with Katy that the “chorus was very strong.” Katy and Lionel gave him a yes for Hollywood, while Luke said no. He thought at the time Fritz had a “little more growth ahead of you.” However, Fritz still got to go to Hollywood because of Katy and Lionel!
2. Fritz made it to the top 5.
Fritz became one of the most popular contestants during the American Idol live shows. His performance of Billie Eilish’s “when the party’s over” has over 650,000 views on YouTube. During the top 5 performances, he sang a Carrie Underwood classic and 5 Seconds of Summer’s “Youngblood.” Fritz was eliminated along with Nicolina during the May 15 show.
3. Fritz worked as a security officer.
“I monitor cameras,” Fritz revealed in his intro video. “I’m not really out there chasing down criminals or anything. Not very glamorous. I really just sit in a dark room for 12 hours a day.” He’s ready for the next chapter of his life as a performer. He admitted he doesn’t want to be sitting at a desk forever. After making it to Hollywood, Fritz quit his job.
4. Fritz has been inspired by Phillip Phillips.
Fritz has been a huge fan of Phillip Phillips ever since the singer won American Idol season 12. “As a kid, I was really inspired by Phillip Phillips, who was on the show 10 years ago actually,” Fritz said. “I love his sound, the way he played guitar. He inspired me to play guitar, and I always wanted to sort of be where he was.” Ahead of Fritz’s audition, Phillip sent Fritz a good luck video message. “Do what you do. Have fun. Let’s rock it,” he told Fritz.
5. Fritz has released his own music.
Fritz has dropped singles ahead of his American Idol debut. His songs “All My Friends” and “Maybe I Think I Love You” are available now. During his American Idol run, he dropped the song “Hearts Align.”