Season 6 finalist Chris Richardson celebrates his 26^th birthday today. While Chris was a contestant on American Idol, he soared through the semifinals and into the finals. He did a good job of picking songs that suited his modern pop-rock vocals. It wasnt until American Idols seventh season when contestants could start playing musical instruments, so Chris was unable to showcase his talent on the piano, guitar, and drums during his season. Chris spent the summer after Season 6 touring around the country with his fellow Top 10 finalists.

In early 2008, Chris released a single called All Alone that became available for download. During the Season 6 competition, he became close friends with runner-up Blake Lewis, and he even co-wrote a couple tracks, Whatcha Got 2 Lose? and Human, on Blakes debut album, Audio Day Dream. These days, Chris has been playing gigs in and around his hometown and is working on his music.

Happy Birthday, Chris!

View photos of Chris performing on American Idols Inspirational Songs week.