ORANGE PARK – Chad Eagan won’t get a free pass to the American Idol competition if he wins Jacksonville’s version of the musical elimination showdown.

However, he believes a victory would be worth so much more.

The survivor will earn cash, get studio time, a professional photo shoot and six paid bookings for bigger events.

“It kind of gives you exposure, confidence to be on stage,” he said. “It just prepares you for anything you’re going to do in the future.”

More than anything else, it means Eagan can keep singing. As long as there’s a crowd, he will be performing.

“It would be great, but I’m not looking to be like the next Carrie Underwood or a major, major mega superstar,” he said. “I just enjoy singing, sharing my gifts with people, and entertaining. As long as my music is heard, that’s enough validation for me.”

Now 35, Eagan knows he’s already outgrown national competitions. He works as a stylist at Bleach Please Salon on Wells Road during the week. On Saturday night, he hopes to advance when the finalists focus on Latin hits. Other topics have been Elvis and movie-themed songs. After Saturday’s show, there only will be two rounds remaining.

Previous winners now play on cruise ships and enjoy more prominent bookings.

“American Idol has a cut-off age of 29, and I’m 35,” Eagan said. “This is a stepping stone to get you ready to move forward in your career.”

Jax Idol has served the talent community at Lillian’s Sports Grill on Roosevelt Boulevard for nearly 20 years. Eagan said he finished in eighth place before the competition took a six-year break.

“They haven’t had it for six years,” Eagan said. “And then this year, they were like, ‘Hey, we’re coming back – bigger and better than ever. You might want to audition again.’ So, I was like, ‘OK, I’ll give it a try.’ I went to an audition and went for it.”

While Eagan has shown an ability to adapt to most musical genres, he said his favorite songs are “bluesy soul with a hint of country.”

Eagan has been singing since he was 13. He’s redefined his goals to include things that now seem more important than gold and glory.

“I just want to be heard,” he said. “That’s all.”