Gary Beals

Eye on Idol caught up with last year's Canadian Idol runner-up Gary Beals at the 2004 Canadian Idol auditions in Halifax, where he was on hand to lend advice to aspiring singers and give back support to the city that carried him to the top. "It's a good feeling to actually come back here and to lend support to the people who are going to audition for this season, you know, because I know what they're going through," Gary said. "I know how nervous they are and at the same time, how excited they are." Gary admits having a good time spending a few minutes with each Idol hopeful, answering the many questions they had for the hometown hero, from picking the right songs to Gary's own Idol experience. From having no expectations during his audition last year to almost becoming Canada's first Idol, Gary Beals has come a long way. These days, the soulful singer from Dartmouth is busy putting the finishing touches on his first album, "Raised By Grace," as well as performing live. He recently appeared with Idol winner Ryan Malcolm for a House of Blues concert in Halifax. Gary also performed on the East Coast Music Awards broadcast on CBC and was a special guest on the comedy show, "Royal Canadian Air Farce." Along with fellow Idol finalist Toya Alexis, Gary is now under Plasma Management and Productions Inc. (www.plasmacorporate.com) -- Canadian Idol Judge Farley Flex's company.