Adoptees Who Inspire: Brandon Elder's American Idol Audition

I don't watch much TV, especially network TV, so I rely on others to let me know when something adoption related happens out there in that world.  I'm not against it, I just loathe commercials. If the TV is on at our house, it's tuned to sports (go Dubs!) or I'm playing video games haha.

Brandon Elder at the American Idol audition

So, extra thanks to Sissa Mandaville from the Domestic Adoption Support Network for sharing this young man's story and American Idol audition. If she hadn't shared it, I never would have heard about this and gotten to enjoy his absolutely incredible song.

Brandon is a very talented 23-year-old from Alabama who wrote this homage about the single-mom who  adopted him. I won't give it away, mostly because I can't do anymore justice to his story than you can get from him telling it himself. Watch this clip to learn his story and watch his performance.

When I was a young boy, you took me in
and loved me as your own
The greatest love that anyone can ever know
is the love from my mother's heart...


*Ugly crying*

Brandon with mom Patricia

I'm totally blown away by Brandon's talent and story. What a beautiful way to honor his mother. The judges are clearly just as impressed. When you have songwriters of that caliber giving you that kind of praise, you're doing something right. I hope he gets far in this competition!

Good luck Brandon! And give him a like on Facebook to show your support.


Stuff to Consider

• What did you think of Brandon's performance? Do you agree with the judges?
• Are you an American Idol fan?
• Have you expressed your adoption story via art?