About Bucks County

Get to Know: ‘American Idol’ Contestant Catie Turner

Not since Justin Guarini has a Bucks County native made it nearly all the way on the hit show, American Idol. The Middletown music machine, a student at Neshaminy High School, made headlines with her quirky audition! Between vocal practices, the rising superstar had time to send us a few reasons on why she’s proud to call Bucks County her home.

AMERICAN IDOL – “107 (Hollywood Week)” – “American Idol” contestants continue to vie for their chance at stardom while in the heart of Los Angeles, as the search for America’s next superstar continues on its new home on America’s network, The ABC Television Network, SUNDAY, APRIL 1 (8:00-10:01 p.m. EDT). (ABC/Eric McCandless)

AMERICAN IDOL – “110 (Top 24 Celebrity Duets)” – As the pool has been narrowed to the top 24 contestants, 12 of the top 24 finalists perform duets with celebrity partners at Academy LA in Hollywood during this week in the competition, as the search for America’s next superstar continues on its new home on America’s network, The ABC Television Network, MONDAY, APRIL 9 (8:00-10:00 p.m. EDT). (ABC/Eric McCandless)

Have you lived in Bucks County your whole life?

I have lived in Bucks County my whole life. I was born and raised in Bucks County. I love the area, there’s so much to see and do. And we are only 45 minutes from Center City, Philadelphia and all three stadiums.

How did you get into singing and songwriting?

I started playing guitar not too long ago when I was 15. I discovered my creative outlet and started singing and songwriting shortly after. I love music, it is such an outlet for me, I feel like a different person.

What was it like making it into the Top 14 on American Idol?

It feels unreal but totally cool. It feels surreal! I sometimes feel like they are talking about someone else.

AMERICAN IDOL – “109 (Top 24 Solos)” – As the pool has been narrowed to the top 24 contestants,12 of the top 24 finalists perform solos at Academy LA in Hollywood during this week in the competition, as the search for America’s next superstar continues on its new home on America’s network, The ABC Television Network, SUNDAY, APRIL 8 (8:00-10:00 p.m. EDT). (ABC/Eric McCandless)

AMERICAN IDOL – “101 (Auditions)” – The gold standard of all music competition series, “American Idol,” will make its highly anticipated return to television as superstar judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie set out on a journey across the nation to discover a new crop of inspiring talent with a touch of Disney magic, as it premieres its first season at its new home on America’s network, The ABC Television Network, SUNDAY, MARCH 11 (8:00-10:01 p.m. EDT). (ABC/Eric Liebowitz)

Who is your greatest musical inspiration?

I have several influences: The Beatles, Joni Mitchell and Dodi Clark. I also love some of the giants, like Billy Joel, Elton John and Earth, Wind and Fire.

What is your favorite song to sing?

“September” by Earth, Wind and Fire. It’s such a great, upbeat song!

What is your favorite restaurant in Bucks County?

The Green Parrot! Also, downtown Doylestown. I am vegan so anything that has decent vegan will do, too.

Do you have any advice for aspiring singers and songwriters?

Write songs that come from your heart. They have to mean something to you or else they will not sound good.

Why are you proud to call Bucks County home?

Because Bucks County is filled with amazing people, history, stories and hopefully the next American Idol. I love it!