Eliminated American Idol Finalists Talk About The Future

They didn't win American Idol. So, what's next for the finalists? Here's a taste of what the contestants told reporters during post-elimination conference calls.

Phil Stacey: My primary responsibility is to the United States Navy. The possibility exists that they’ll need me for a mission. If that’s the case, I’m committed to following through with my commitment to the Navy.

Lakisha Jones: I’m not sure exactly what [kind of album I] want to do yet. I know I want it to be kind of sassy and soulful with a little inspiration, if that makes sense.

Sanjaya Malakar: I’m definitely looking at a music career, but I also want to venture into acting and modeling and possibly Broadway or something, because I just really want to get full entertainment business and the full entertainment career, I guess.

Haley Scarnato: I would love to get a record deal. That’s exactly what we all want, so that would be a dream come true….I’m up for anything. I’ll try anything. We’ll see.

Gina Glocksen: After the tour, I want to move to LA and try to get a record deal. I want to make music, my own music because I’ve been singing covers for so long, and just try and sell albums.

Chris Sligh: When I get back to South Carolina, I’m going to hook back up with my band. They had put out a CD that we recorded before I tried out for American Idol. The name of the band is Half Past Forever for those of you that don’t know. Half Past Forever is planning on getting back together. We’ll see what happens. We were getting record label interest before American Idol, so I think doors should open up for us. It will be great.

Stephanie Edwards: I kind of try to look at the bright side of things and think maybe one day I’ll go on tour. Even if it’s not with American Idol, maybe one day I’ll be able to go on tour, if I get to just put out my own record, so, you know.

Brandon Rogers: Hopefully, my slow but sure takeover of the world. Honestly, I feel like the sky is the limit for what is upcoming. This show can be such a good vehicle, I’m so proud to be in the top 12, and I’m hoping that I can use it to help kick start my career in music. This is what I’ve always wanted to do; I’m a career musician. But, of course, I’m always open to other things, such as acting and the like. Hopefully, I’ll get my hands around any opportunity that comes my way and make the best of it.