George Huff

[TV_Paige]

'Idol' Finalist Huff Believes in 'Miracles'

George Huff

Sitting in a Nashville coffee shop on a Friday afternoon, a mixture of emotions plays across George Huff's face. The "American Idol" 2004 finalist is excited about his Word Records debut, "Miracles." But as we glance at the TV on the screen overhead, footage of his beloved New Orleans and the ongoing efforts to bring back the city sobers him.

"Sometimes I want to cry when I see all that's happened in New Orleans. It was really hard to go back home and see the place like that . . . but He won't put no more on you than you can handle," Huff says of God's comfort during such trying times. "He's the greatest gift you'll ever have . . . Anybody who knows George Huff, they know that I love the Lord," he says, flashing a smile.

"The good always outweighs the bad," Huff reflected on his "American Idol" experience. "And I could be doing anything anywhere doing something I don't want to do. But I've been afforded the opportunity to share my gift of song with America. And that, in and of itself, is something to be glad and rejoice in. This is the happiest I have ever been in my life."

George Huff and Ryan Seacrest on 'American Idol'

"Miracles," which showcases Huff's warm, confident voice, was released October 11. The album's first single, "A Brighter Day," has become an unofficial anthem of hope for many in his native city. "I just want the people to know that there will be a brighter day," Huff says.

While attending the University of Oklahoma on a music scholarship, Huff landed major roles in the school's big operatic productions. When his scholarship money ran out his senior year, he tried out for 'Idol.' Huff reflected, "'American Idol' is my over-the-rainbow experience. I went out there and I gave them my heart. Everything came from the heart."

He was nearly eliminated twice and at one point was even sent home. But when another contestant got sent packing because of a drunk driving charge, Huff got the call to come back. "That was another miracle story," the 24-year-old says of his unexpected return. "It was an amazing journey."