KTIV News 4 Sioux City IA: News, Weather and SportsSiouxland man a finalist in Voice of McDonald's global competition

Siouxland man a finalist in Voice of McDonald's global competition

A Wayne State College student is making some noise in the music world. He's a finalist in the competition to be the next global Voice of McDonald's. Kendall Titiml has worked at McDonald's for 4 years, but he's always been a singer.

"It's kind of what I've been known to do ever since I was growing up. Like, I'm at home and I'm always singing," said Titiml.

Kendall is one of 22 U.S. finalists in the fourth "Voice of McDonalds" global singing contest. It's a way the fast food giant recognizes and rewards the most talented singers among it's 1.6 million employees worldwide. Think: "America's Got Talent" meets "The Golden Arches." Yes, he tried out for "American Idol." No, he didn't make it. But the folks at Mickey-D's recognize talent when they see it. And they recently surprised Kendall with the news that his submitted video was one of the best in the country.

"It was kind of surprising, but at the same time, it was a great feeling," said Titiml.

Since he made the local paper, this fast food crooner with the long locks has become something of a local celebrity. "Now it's everywhere I go. Even I go to the store, people just see me and they're like, 'Hey, congratulations and you've definitely got my vote' and people are just being so supportive around here."

He's not just a great singer, he's a great employee, loved by his co-workers and always providing service with a smile. Restaurant Manager Brian Smith said, "Always smiling. Always. Even when he's sad he's smiling. I don't understand."

Co-Worker Marlene Ruskamp agreed, saying "Kendall, he is going to be number one because he's the best because he loves to sing and entertain us."

Winning would mean the world to Kendall, who is a world away from home. The Wayne State business marketing major is from the Pacific Island of Palau. It's been more than four years since he's been home. If he wins, Kendall says the prize money would help him send his mother to his sister's graduation. He's got the voice. He's got the looks. Now Kendall just needs the votes.

You can help Kendall get there in his quest to become the next Voice of McDonald's. The winner will be determined by an online vote running from November 1st through November 30th. If Kendall is among the top three vote-getters, he'll win a trip to the McDonald's Worldwide Convention in Orlando, Florida next April and compete for the top honors, including the $25,000 grand prize.