American Idol finalist Colton Dixon to rock Valentine's Day concert

American Idol Season 11 finalist Colton Dixon is in Manila to serenade his Filipino fans this Valentine's Day together with season 11 runner-up Jessica Sanchez. During Tuesday’s press-con at the Edsa Shangri-La, "the Messenger" (his nickname gained during his run on Idol) enthused, "Jessica has flavor and I’ve got rock. It will be a party." The Christian rock artist is also in the country to promote his newly released debut album, "A Messenger." It features 11 powerful and infectious pop/rock tracks that showcase Dixon’s trademark balance of vocal tenderness and intensity, his energetic piano playing and, above all else, a sense of hope and inspiration. As a Christian artist, with songs that are based on experiences and the Scriptures, Dixon has a personal intention of "planting the seed" with his audience. "I feel that God has pulled me through, and I want to inspire others by telling them about my experiences. That’s the central message of my album," he said. The single "Never Gone," which he started performing during the American Idol 2012 Live Tour, was an immediate hit digital single, selling 21,000 units on its first week and headed straight to number one on the iTunes Christian and Gospel singles chart. "This song is about how we sometimes need a reminder about why we do certain things, or in this case, a reminder of whom we are living for," he said. "When you are scared of the dark as a child, you can just turn on the lights and know everything will be okay. That is the basic message of the song. I’ve experienced this feeling." Dixon, who is in near-constant communication with his fans via Facebook and Twitter, sent out a blast whose responses inspired one of the album's most powerful songs, the hard-hitting "Scars." He simply asked fans to send in stories about some of their more difficult life experiences and how their faith played a role in dealing with them. Dixon also shared the special place his Filipino fans have in his heart. "Ever since I started, up until I last checked my Facebook, the top two cities where I have most fans based are here in the Philippines. My hometown only comes third. I am overwhelmed with the Filipino love." His second time in the Philippines, Dixon enjoyed shopping at Greenhills and is looking forward to his tour of Divisoria— which he heard is an even bigger shopping treat—on Wednesday. The Idol finalist is also excited to perform with Sanchez. When probed about what's in store for fans at their Manila concert, Colton teased, "Maybe a duet." Dixon said he has a lot of passion for his work. "I believe that people respond to artists who pour their hearts into every performance and connect with the songs they sing. For them to believe in what I’m singing, I have to believe it first," he said. "For my fans, and for everyone, it’s all about being yourself. Share your heart and be genuine. Those are the things that make a difference." — BM, GMA News Photo by Ferdie ArQuero for Ovation Productions