Dundee-Crown celebrates former 'The Voice' contestant Riley Elmore
Dundee-Crown High School junior Riley Elmore's journey on NBC's “The Voice” may be over, but that didn't stop his teachers and peers from throwing him a celebration fit for a star.
Before a schoolwide rally Monday in his honor, the 16-year-old jazz singer from West Dundee promised his experience on the show was only the beginning of what he hopes will be a very successful music career.
“I've learned how to stay humble, and ... I just have a lot more confidence now,” he said. “I'm not done yet.”
During his stint on “The Voice,” Riley made it past the first three rounds, advancing to a live Top 20 playoff round, which aired last week. He sang “Luck Be a Lady” by his favorite singer, Frank Sinatra, but he did not receive enough votes to move on to the Top 12.
When Riley returned home, he said, his Carpentersville high school greeted him with more support than he could've imagined, as demonstrated by the hundreds of students and faculty members cheering him on during Monday's assembly.
“I love this so much, and I appreciate it so much,” Elmore said. “I'm really glad it's happening, and I feel the love. It makes me feel good.”
Photos of his experiences both in high school and on “The Voice” were displayed on a slideshow, and a drum line greeted the crowd that filled the gymnasium. Wanting to incorporate the music department into the celebration, Riley also performed with the school's choir and later returned to the floor in a suit to sing with the jazz band.
Community Unit District 300 Superintendent Fred Heid congratulated the young crooner on his professionalism, maturity and talent throughout the show.
“And you're an absolutely amazing young man,” he said. “You have a very bright future ahead of you.”
Several of Riley's friends also sang his praises, including senior Alyssa Weir of West Dundee, who thanked him for being an inspiration to her and “so many others.”
Junior Nathan Stone of Sleepy Hollow said Riley's personality remains the same whether he's on national TV or hanging out with friends on a Friday night.
“He is unique and authentic, which is only a few of the great qualities about him,” Stone said. “Despite everything he's been through, he stayed grounded and true to himself.”
Though disappointed he didn't advance further on “The Voice,” Riley said he's amazed at the continued encouragement he's received from his community — and his fan base. After he was eliminated, he even received a gift basket from Tina Sinatra, Frank Sinatra's daughter, that included a signed book, a pin and a wristband that says “What would Frank do?”
Riley's parents, Michael and Joan, who attended the assembly, said the show was an incredible experience for their son. Not only did he grow as a musician, but he also made friendships to last a lifetime.
And, as the proud dad pointed out, “How do you get a better launch in your career than 'The Voice'?”