We have another American Idol contestant in Claremore! In addition to 15-year-old Kailey Abel, we’ve had the pleasure of meeting Jake Dillon Tankersley.
Jake, who is originally from Sand Springs, lives in the Verdigris area and is a full-time employee of Cedar Point Church in Claremore, where he serves as worship leader. His wife, Ashleigh, is the children’s pastor at the church, and the couple has two kids of their own, Eli (3) and June (1).
He enjoys singing country music, and his all-time favorite artist is Johnny Cash.
The American Idol dream started this past summer when Jake auditioned at the Tulsa Bus Tour, held at Guthrie Green in June. He did well, and advanced to the next round in Little Rock. And that’s all he can tell us.
Since we have to wait until the season premiere of American Idol to find out what happens next, we asked Jake to come by and put on a show for us. He did. And it was awesome.
The 15th and final season begins on Wednesday, January 6, at 7p, on FOX, and continues on Thursday, January 7.
Best of luck to Jake and Kailey! We know you’ll do Oklahoma proud!
For a sneak peek of Jake’s talent, check out this video, filmed live at the North Block Common.
https://vimeo.com/150843655
Aubrey do you know this guy? Don’t you attend Cedar point?
Marj West Worley or Natalie Tankersley any relation?!? His last name is Tankersley ð
I realize I may be picking nits, but since he lives in Verdigris, not Claremore, shouldn’t this say Verdigris has a American Idol Contestant? Verdigris is a city, separate from Claremore.
Judy Mangels Hinson