Will S. Barrington native be the next 'Idol?'

America could soon get to know a South Barrington teen a little better.

Michael SanFilippo, a 19-year-old who graduated from Barrington High School in 2006, made it through to Hollywood this week on "American Idol."

One day after his TV debut on the popular reality show, people in the suburb were buzzing.

"It's been the talk of the town," said his friend, Malinda Felde. "My phone was blowing up right after the audition."

Felde has known the singer for about 10 years.

She was his counselor at the South Barrington Park District summer camp. When he got older, SanFilippo became a camp counselor himself and has been working there for several years.

"I am so excited for him," she said. "He is obsessed with music."

He's the lead vocalist in a band called Bright Like Japan and also plays guitar. His style is likened to Jason Mraz or John Mayer.

SanFilippo is currently a second-year student at Harper College in Palatine.

He's also worked as an after-school counselor at Barbara Rose Elementary School in South Barrington.

"All the teachers and kids love him," said Felde. "He has a heart of gold."

Following instructions from the show's producers, her friend has been tight-lipped about the whole thing.

"All he's told me is that I have to watch the show," said Felde.

Attempts to reach SanFilippo and his family Wednesday were unsuccessful.

At his audition, the blonde teen sang a few lines of Stevie Wonder's "If You Really Love Me."

The next chance viewers will have to see the local teen is Feb. 12. That's the first Hollywood round of the singing competition.