Michael Mercado
Atrenta

1. If you could perform with any person or group, who would it be & why?

That would have to be the Temptations. We're talkin' OLD SKOOL baby. The moves, the spins, the snapping fingers, and those skinny-tie suits. DAMN! All goes back to Eddie Kendricks, David Ruffin, and the Williams Bros. Took Motown to a whole nuther level.

2. What was the first concert you attended?

NOT The Temptations, that's for sure. My formative youth was spent with the likes of Nugent, KISS, Black Sabbath, and ABBA (ya gotta have variety). First concert was the very first Sunday Break Concert in Austin TX featuring Gary Wright (Dreamweaver), Carlos Santana (Black Magic Woman), America (what were they doing there?!?!?), and headlining Peter Frampton asking the musical question, "Do You Feel Like We Do?" That was back in 1976. What the hell were my parents thinking?

3. Who has been your favorite American Idol thus far?

Dale Hayes. But I don't remember seeing him on TV. Otherwise, its whats-her-name - blond chick.

4. Do you have any rituals or things you do each time before you perform?

You really don't want to talk about that. But rest assured, I'm in therapy and several 12-step programs to quit.

5. If you couldn't sing, which talent would you most like to have?

Who said anything about singing talent? Otherwise, I wish I was talented enough to do something other than work in EDA. Hey, is this going up on the website? OH CRAP!

Uhhh...I'm just so happy to be where I am and grateful that I am working with such a talented group like at Atrenta. I love my job. I LOVE MY JOOOOOOB!!!!

6. If you win, who will you thank first?

My standard answer is "Mom". Beyond that, I usually give a shoutout to alcohol - the more you drink, the better I sound.