William Robert Young was born on January 20, 1979. He was born and raised in Hungerford, Berkshire with his mother, father, twin brother, and sister. Young, who is very intelligent, received a degree in Politics from Exeter University. Young’s life was transformed in the summer of 2001 when he entered Pop Idol. Pop Idol was the prequel to American Idol. Young beat out thousands of other contestants. Britain loved his good looks, charm, and ability to stand up to mean judge, Simon Cowell.

After winning Pop Idol, Young received a recording contract with BMG. He soon released the singles, “Evergreen” and “Anything Is Possible.” Young then went on the Pop Idols tour. He then released his debut album entitled From Now On. The album has since sold over 850,000 copies. The album also contained a cover of the Bill Weather’s classis, “Ain’t No Sunshine.” Other singles from the album were: “Light My Fire,” and “Beyond the Sea.”

In March 2002, Young announced to the public that he was a homosexual. Although there were ridiculous concerns from those close to him in the music industry, it had no affect. The British people adore him.

In late December 2003, Young released his sophomore album entitled Friday’s Child. The album was released on week prior to the World Idol competitions. Rumors spread that Young did not want to participate in the World Idol competition; fearing it would become “Tacky Eurovision.” He did, however, compete.

The World Idol competition aired on Boxing Day 2003. The second part occurred on New Years Day 2004. Audiences were disappointed in the judges treatment of the competitors. The creators of the television show admitted that there was a great deal of editing due to the harshness of judges. Young, who had been a big favorite, came in fifth place.

The day after the competition, the World Idol, Kurt Nilsen claimed that Young was arrogant and rude. Nilsen stated that the British singer acted more important than everyone else, and would not shake his hand when he won. (www.bandhunt.com)