4 ‘American Idol’ finalists say desire to win is strong, but so is their friendship

‘Idol’ finalists are a band of brothers and sister

LOS ANGELES — The last four “American Idol” contestants left standing say their competition is a friendly one.

The singers told a news conference Friday that they’ve remained close even as they work hard to win.

Lee Dewyze, a 24-year-old paint sales clerk from Mount Prospect, Ill., said each contestant wants the top spot but not because they want another finalist to lose.

The others left in the singing contest are 24-year-old musician Crystal Bowersox of Toledo, Ohio, 26-year-old personal trainer Michael “Big Mike” Lynche from Queens, N.Y. and 27-year-old musician Casey James of Fort Worth, Texas.

Next week, the four finalists will be mentored by singer-actor Jamie Foxx and will perform cinema-themed songs.