Second Cup Cafe: Ferras

(CBS)  Ferras Alqaisi, also known as "Ferras," is a 25-year-old singer/songwriter who shows an honest, sensual and edgy versatility that is well-groomed for a man of his age.

His debut album, "Aliens and Rainbows," was produced by The Matrix (Avril Lavigne, Jason Mraz, Korn) with Gary Clark (Natalie Imbruglia, Lloyd Cole).

Inspired by David Bowie, The Beatles and Elton John, you can hear hints of The Beatles in Ferras' "Liberation Day."

The ballad "Take My Lips" lets listeners in, revealing Ferras' vulnerable side.

"American Idol" caught onto this young talent with his hit single, "Hollywood's Not America," which was taped for two episodes of the hit Fox series.

Ferras grew up in a southern Illinois town, but never felt like he belonged. After his parents divorced, his father took him to the airport, promising a trip to Disneyland, which turned out to be a trip to his homeland - Amman, Jordan.

While in Jordan, Ferras turned to his Casio keyboard - a gift from his father - for comfort. With music as his outlet, Ferras started writing songs.

Ferras' mother was eventually able to bring her son back to Illinois, but Ferras never felt at home or like himself there. They then moved to Southern California, where Ferras found his true identity and embraced his musical gift.
By Melissa Castellanos

[Minnesandy]

THANKS MORE THAN I CAN SAY FOR HAVING FERRAS ON THE EARLY SHOW 2ND CUP CAFE!!!