DeWyze exuding confidence heading into finals, friend says

A bodyguard and slew of protective "American Idol" producers weren't going to stop Vince Ferrara from embracing longtime friend Lee DeWyze after last Friday's massive homecoming concert at Arlington Park.

"I admit I kissed the guy on the cheek because he's like my brother," Ferrara, 26, said. "He was so overcome with emotion after everything that happened that day."

Ferrara's access is likely to be even more limited this week when he heads out to Los Angeles for the "Idol" finale, which pits new front-runner DeWyze, 24, of Mount Prospect, against former favorite Crystal Bowersox.

Ferrara, who flies out Monday night, said he'll join DeWyze's family and former Forest View Alternative School teacher, Amy Silverman, in the audience at the Nokia Theatre.

"Lee told me he wanted me there and I promised to be the loudest guy in the place," said Ferrara, who was in the audience the week contestants sang Elvis songs. "Whether or not we'll actually get to see him between all the rehearsals and interviews, I have no idea."

Ferrara also has no idea what DeWyze will be singing on Tuesday, saying "It's all very hush-hush."

Buddies since their days at Prospect High School, Ferrara and DeWyze showed up together at the United Center at 4 a.m. last June to try out for "Idol." DeWyze wanted to ditch the audition, but Ferrara convinced him to battle the oppressive heat and thousands of other people in line.

As he's made the cut each round, DeWyze is talking less to Ferrara about how nervous he is, and instead exuding confidence. Singing "That's Life" during Sinatra week earlier this month was the turning point, he said.

"Lee's got the talent, the look, the confidence and most importantly the versatility," he said. "And now we're seeing him kick it into that extra gear. Everything's aligning for him."