By Kris Leonhardt

Editor

MARSHFIELD — Born in Mount Prospect, Illinois, Lee DeWyze developed a passion for music at a young age.

“I picked up the guitar when I was about 13 or 14 years old,” recalled DeWyze.

As a musician, DeWyze said that Cat Stevens’ “Tea for the Tillerman” and Paul Simon’s “Graceland” were two albums that had a heavy influence on him. DeWyze learned to play the guitar, piano, and the drums, and it was not long before he started to write his own songs.

“I discovered that I could turn my thoughts and ideas into a clever song or line,” DeWyze said. “I am a songwriter first. … Being a songwriter and going on ‘American Idol’ was a way different approach, a different path than I would have taken, but nonetheless it was a great experience. It was really a great kick start for me.”

DeWyze joined friends auditioning in Chicago for season nine of “American Idol.” And after earning a spot in the 2010 show, DeWyze went on to take the title.

He made his major label debut that same year with the album “Live It Up.” “Frames” followed in 2013, and his song “Fight” reached the top 40 on the Billboard Hot Adult Contemporary charts.

DeWyze has continued to make music and is excited about his latest release.

“I’ve got new music. I have a new single out,” said DeWyze, “and I do love Marshfield. … I am just really excited to get back to one of the places I’ve played. I love the venue, and I love the people that come out to the show.”

Lee DeWyze will be joined by Claire Kelly for a performance at Wildwood Park on Aug. 24. The show starts at 8 p.m. Visit voxmarshfield.com for more information.