Didi Benami captivated the hearts of millions with her one-of-a-kind voice, and emotional performances as a contestant on the 9th Season of American Idol, propelling her to become a Top 10 Finalist on the Show. As a result of her success, Didi performed on the 44-city Idol's LIVE! 2010 Tour.
Her fans need not wait any longer as Didi plans to independently release her debut EP/album which will include "Gasoline," "Release Me," and "Crash or Burn," all original songs co-written by Didi. In her quest to make an album that represents her musical style and influences, Didi has collaborated with numerous songwriters and producers, including Jason Reeves (Colbie Caillat, Kara Dioguardi), Mikal Blue (Colbie Caillat, Jason Mraz, OneRepublic, Mötley Crüe), Chris Seefried (Brendan James, Fitz & the Tantrums, Counting Crows), Justin Gray (Joss Stone, Sugar Jones, Abused Romance), Rocco Guarino (Velvet Revolver, Scott Weiland, Camp Freddy) and Jordan Lawhead (Lee DeWyze, the JaneDear girls). Didi describes her music as a "funkier rock-pop" sound, with organic roots -- a new kind of pop, but still "honest and real."
Earlier this year, Didi fulfilled one of her long time dreams by performing the National Anthem during several NBA games, including singing in front of 19,000 people at Game 2 of the NBA Playoffs last month for the Orlando Magic in Florida.
To get her music heard by her passionate online community, Didi recorded a show with the Chicago Acoustic Underground, which is currently available digitally in audiovisual or audio-only formats.
While awaiting her EP's release, the Tennessean singer/songwriter is also focused on developing and perfecting her acting craft, including working with acting coaches Eliza Roberts, Diana Castle and auditioning for a variety of television and film roles. Didi participated in a workshop with renowned casting director Nancy Nayor (Road Trip, The Whole Nine Yards) and has also worked with acting coach Chambers Stevens and top vocal instructors Roger Love, Liz Lewis, and Ron Anderson. Benami recently appeared on MTV's Little Talent Show where she placed second overall.
Didi has also ventured into modeling, doing some work with Tru Kustom Designs and Tribal Glam Jewelry, and was featured in a 2009 Calendar for Knockouts For Girls (KO4G), an organization
that raises money to support programs that help underprivileged women and those in need, while teaching confidence-building skills through boxing.
Born in New York City, Didi moved to Knoxville, Tennessee, at the age of seven. While her Israeli father and American/German mother struggled to make ends meet, it was Didi's uncle who introduced her to music. Didi remembers awakening every morning to her uncle playing the piano, who took her for her first voice lesson. A self-taught guitar player, Didi has been performing for audiences her entire life. While she always had a passion for music, it was not until she lost her best friend and Belmont University roommate, Rebecca Joy Lear, in a car accident, that Didi began to pursue music as a career. Didi firmly believes "you never know what is going to happen tomorrow, so you might as well do what you love today. Tomorrow is not a promise."
After the tragedy, Didi put college on hold and moved to Los Angeles, California, in order to perform Rebecca's music and inspire others (especially children) to live positively, promote kindness, and demonstrate that we can make a change for the better. Says Didi, "I want to inspire people and let them know that they can follow their dreams whatever they are." In her yearning to help others, Didi has volunteered her musical talents for several non-profit events, including fundraisers for KO4G and The Dream Foundation.
Benami's dedication and commitment to whatever she puts her mind to sets her miles apart from many other performers. Didi's goal is to grow as an artist and entertainer in the future with many compelling projects involving acting, singing and modeling. She is also committed to raising money for many non-profit organizations that help children, a passion that she cannot ignore.
Check out Rebecca Joy Lear's website. and listen to some of her amazing music. It's www.rebeccajoylear.com
"Go boldly in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined."
"We have so much potential, Our love is essential."
"Shoot for the moon!!"
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-Rebecca Joy Lear
