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Homeless New York City Singer Wows 'American Idol' Judges

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- A homeless New York City singer is one step closer to living his dream.

During Thursday night's "American Idol," Hollywood Anderson performed his original song, "My Best Friend," receiving high praise from judges Jennifer Lopez, Harry Connick Jr. and Adam Lambert.

"There were so many dimensions to what you just did," Lambert said. "Every phrase had its own angle and own color and own texture and that was just so, so interesting to listen to. And emotional."

Homeless New York City Singer Wows 'American Idol' Judges

"Unquestionably the best audition today, the best audition of the last two days and possibly of the last four cities," Connick Jr. said. "You're very talented."

Anderson told the judges has been living in New York for two years, chasing his dream.

"I just learned how to play guitar about a year ago," Anderson said. "Because of the guitar, I'm here today."

The guitar was a gift from Covenant House director Norm Lotz, who said when Anderson came to one of their shelters he knew he was special.

"I heard him sing and I knew right away that this young man had more talent than most of the kids that we see," Lotz told 1010 WINS' Mona Rivera on Friday.

After receiving the guitar, Anderson began singing in the streets and subways.

"I literally took that guitar, got on the train, went to Bedford Avenue and I immediately started playing for people," Anderson told Rivera.

All three judges presented Anderson with yellow tickets to advance in the competition.

Next stop, Hollywood.

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