Back in 2004, a young UC Berkeley engineering student, William Hung quickly rose to stardom following his rejection from the widely popular television show, American Idol. 

William, along with his mother and father, had immigrated to the United States from Hong Kong in 1993 when he was 10 years old. While adjusting to a new language and culture, he developed an early love for music by singing karaoke with his parents.

Years later, after winning a talent contest at his college, he felt confident enough to try out for American Idol. His wildest dreams were realized when he made it through a few preliminary rounds and ended up auditioning in front of judges, Simon, Paula and Randy. Although William was rejected after that audition, he became very popular, released some albums and was sought after to appear on numerous talk, news and entertainment shows. 

Now, almost twenty years since William’s first appearance on American Idol, he has become known more for his motivational speaking and his passion for helping others find their voice and maintain a positive attitude in the face of criticism.

In this episode of Your History Your Story, we are honored to have William share his story with us.

Photo(s) courtesy of: William Hung and Your History Your Story Podcast

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

YHYS Social Links: https://linktr.ee/yhyspodcast

YHYS Mailing List: https://mailchi.mp/8fcb73f13927/yhys-signup-for-mailing-list

William Hung - Connect with William on IG & FB. His new website is under construction at this time. William's new podcast will be called Make Your Dreams Come True.