Hometown Hello: May 16-20: 'American Idol' towns

“Hometown Hello” visits North Carolina towns that are the homes of “American Idol” stars.

Garner is the home of Scotty McCreery, a finalist in the 10th season of “American Idol.” He went to Garner Magnet High and worked at Lowes Food store. Locals remember the Elvis impressions Scotty did as a child. His mom is a local realtor.

Clay Aiken, the second-place winner in the second season of “American Idol,” was born and raised in Raleigh. He sang in the Raleigh Boychoir and went to Leesville Road High School. Before “Idol,” Clay sang at Raleigh Icecaps games.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill graduate student Anoop Desai finished sixth during season eight of "American Idol." He said he was motivated to try out for the show after the murder of friend and UNC student body president Eve Carson. Before appearing on Idol, Desai was a member of the a capella group, the Clef Hangers.

Albermarle is the home of Kellie Pickler, who placed sixth on “American Idol” in 2005. Before “Idol,” Kelly became Miss Stanly County at age 17. She was a waitress at the Sonic drive-in in Albermarle.

High Point is the hometown of Fantasia Barrino, the winner of season 3 of “American Idol.” Before “Idol,” she attended Andrews High School but had to drop out because of pregnancy. She lived in Greensboro briefly.

Chris Daughtry was born in Roanoke Rapids on Dec. 26, 1979. He placed fourth on “American Idol” in season 5. Chris grew up in Lasker in Northampton County.