Lee Dewyze Is Born

Leon James "Lee" DeWyze (born April 2, 1986) is an American singer-songwriter from Mount Prospect, Illinois, who is a finalist on the ninth season of American Idol.

Prior to Idol, DeWyze released two independent albums called So I'm Told in 2007 and Slumberland in 2010.

DeWyze attended Saint James Catholic Elementary School in Arlington Heights, Illinois and Prospect High School up until his senior year. After being kicked out of Prospect High School, Lee attended Forest View Alternative School in Arlington Heights, having been inspired both by his teachers and his interest in music to return to his studies. Lee never graduated from either high school. Before Idol, DeWyze worked as a paint salesman. His musical influences include Cat Stevens, Eric Clapton, Ben Harper, and Simon & Garfunkel.