An Idolic Journey: Aidan Bowman’s musical journey

WISE, Va. (WYMT) – A freshman at The University of Virginia’s College at Wise, Aidan Bowmen started singing at a young age and incorporated instruments after losing someone close to him.

“I’ve been singing since about fourth grade, third grade and my brother played guitar,” Bowman said. “After he passed away that’s when I really picked up the guitar and started to try to carry him with me. Every time I play, he’s right there.”

A passion for music that Bowman has shared with his mother, Crystal.

“I get concerts all the time at home,” she said. “He’s coming at me with all these different genres and songs and he’s definitely wise beyond his years with experience. He just knows music.”

One particular individual home concert in the summer stuck out to Bowman’s mother so much that she wanted to share it with a high-profile singing competition.

“I thought, let’s see where this can go,” she said. “So I trimmed it, and got online … and saw that American Idol was doing online auditions and I thought, ‘Hey, let’s give this a shot.’”

A shot that turned into a call-back and led to a trip to Los Angeles in October to audition for Season 22 of American Idol.

“It worked out and I’m so glad it did because it’s been the best experience of my life,” Bowman said.

Performing a Chris Stapleton song in front of well-known musicians: Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan. Bowman said it was a nerve-racking experience, but one he is truly grateful for.

“I had so many different emotions going on,” he said. “I was happy. It was obviously nerve-wracking but still those three judges, they’ve done so much in the music industry and I was just so blessed to be there.”

With ties to Harlan County, Bowman said the experience has been eye-opening.

“I think it has really just opened my eyes to a whole new set of opportunities,” he said. “I’m just so thankful for all the exposure and all the support.”

A singer-songwriter with his first single released on Feb. 7, Bowman is focused on furthering his music career.

“I’m just really focused on my music right now and I’m just trying to make more of it,” he said. “It’s something that I love and will continue to do.”

As he continues to create more exposure through concerts, such as opening at the Virginia-Kentucky district fair, Bowman said he wants to create music that everyone can relate to and in five years wants his music to be appreciated.

Through what still appears to be the early stages of his music journey, Bowman’s mother said the best part of it all comes from the growth in his confidence.

“Having him discovered by people that are truly talented and knowledgeable in music and seeing him grow has been the best thing ever,” she said. “It’s emotional. Seeing him happy, he deserves it.”

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