IdolPhenomena

The following is my correspondence with Season 1 Top 30 Contestant Alexandra Bachelier, from July 2008.

IP: How has the overall American Idol audition process affected your life today?
AB: Well I would have to say American Idol was definitely an unforgettable process. It has had somewhat of an affect on my life for some people it was an unbelievable accomplishment however, for me it was a stepping stone. I think that it was an incredible opportunity to be on a show that has now gained so much fame and success; yet it wasn't the end or beginning for me. Being part of the original cast is definitely historical and I know it will be something I can look back at and be proud of.

IP: What is your most notable memory of the audition process?
AB: The audition process is long and horribly stressful. There is so much that goes on behind the scenes that the viewers and fans don't see. It takes hours and hours a day, for months to get to the final number that actually make it on the show. I think that the entire audition process is something you’ll never forget. To this day I hear any one of the songs I had to sing and I cringe.-lol. However the one thing you do remember are all the good times you spent with people who love to do the same thing you do. For example all the down time you have like going to dinner and traveling together and waiting for results and hanging out in our rooms being silly. Ultimately it is getting the opportunity to share your creativity and talent with other people who share the same passion is something very rewarding which you can take with you forever.

IP: Are there any idol hopefuls that you still keep in contact with today?
AB: I keep in contact with those who I was closest to through myspace, it’s really the best way to catch up with everyone and see what they are doing. Still working in the music industry you end up bumping into people here and there so you always want to try and keep your communication lines open. You never know when you can collaborate or work with someone on a project so keeping up with people is always good.

IP: What is the current project you are working on? Music? Acting? Career?
AB: Well since American Idol , I have done a lot of different things. In 2004 I signed a publishing / production deal with Kaotic records, which was run by Nick Carter of the Backstreet Boys. Nick and I actually met while I was doing American Idol and we became friends. After several years he approached me with an idea for a project and we gave it a try. Unfortunately, he was still very busy with his personal career and we just couldn't make it work. We decided to part ways but we are still good friends. After that I started my own publishing company Jadyn Star Music which is named after my daughter Jadyn. Yes I am a mommy now. I began writing songs for other artist and co producing, arranging music with Eddie Galan Billboard award winner for High School Musical. I am now signed to a production deal with Mach 1 Music and Eddie Galan. We are in the studio recording several singles which will be released. I don't have the specifics on the dates. We also have several endorsement deals in the works that I am not really able to disclose information on but keep an eye out. As for the acting its definitely something I would love to conquer in the future . I am training with coaches and learning how to play instruments and just growing as a person and as an artist every day. So if the right project presents itself I am definitely open to it.

IP: What advice would you give to someone with the dream of being on American Idol?
AB: The same Advice I would give anyone with any dream. I don't believe anything is impossible if you believe. I think if you work hard and you keep your mind set on the goal, as long as there is talent you can achieve it. I would tell them not to allow anything to get in their way, time is valuable and it’s the only thing in life you don't get back.
Don't get discouraged when one door closes, because it’s usually because there is something better waiting for you on the other side. Prepare yourself for success but don't rule out failure that way if you don't make it right away you have the strength to get back up and keep on trying. It’s never too late the only time its too late is when you give up.

IP: Who was your favorite contestant throughout the audition process?
AB: I didn't have a favorite. We all believed in each other and supported each other. I think that we all knew we had our differences and we all brought something different to the table. I really wasn't friends with Kelly but the day we heard her sing we all knew she was going to make it. I had a feeling she would win. I think she brought it, as well as Tamyra. Justin was also a great performer with tons of charm. It was a tough competition.

IP: Which idol contestant are you listening to in your cd/mp3 player?
AB: I really think the best artist who have come out of idol have been, Carrie Underwood, and Chris Daughtry. I have singles for a bunch of ex idols but my two favs are Carrie and Chris

IP: How did your experiences with Popstars prepare you for Idol?
AB: Honestly I was so young when I did Popstars I had no idea what I was doing. I had never experienced anything like that it was like driving on a freeway without having ever been taught to drive. I learned so much about people and life and the music industry and I never wanted anything to do with it again. I really didn't think I would ever do reality TV again. Popstars was an awakening to a cruel world of entertainment that I was so attracted to. I misunderstood the lesson that I should have taken from Popstars. It gave me such a false sense of fame that blew up my head and when I went on Idol I was a monster. Not to mention the producers ate it up and made it ten times worse then what it really was.
I really grew up and who I thought I was and who I really am are two completely different souls now. I wanted to be famous, because I thought it would give me some sort of satisfaction. Then I found satisfaction in myself and my life and the people who love me. I no longer needed acceptance from anyone so that’s when the whole fame thing died down. Fame didn't matter to me anymore. People knowing who I was or what I did is not important anymore. In fact I don't even tell people all the things I have done unless they actually bring it up. Then I will be as vague about it as I can be. It’s just not important. Now I just want to do music for the rest of my life because it’s what I love to do. Fame might come with it but I am going to stay as grounded as I can because I have seen what it can do to people and I don't ever want to have something that can destroy what I have worked for my entire life.

IP: Have you thought about re-auditioning if you should ever qualify to do so?
AB: I don't regret auditioning. I gained so much from that show. If it wasn't for that whole experience I would have never become the person that I am today. It affected my whole life. I made decisions that I would have never made, I took chances that I would have never been able to take, I met people that have been a crucial part of my life and it was all because of the things I did on that show and the opportunities I gained. However, if I was given the chance to do it all over again now at this point in my life I wouldn't re audition. I don't think I would benefit from it.

Hey readers I know its been awhile since I posted something but I haven't forgotten you. I have some material suited up for you guys so prepare to hear from some of your fav idol contestants :-)

Sylvia Chibiliti-Interview

September 27, 2008

Season 2 Contestant

Top 32 Song Choice: Whitney Huston “Didn’t We Almost Have It All”

IP: How has the overall American Idol audition process affected your life today?

SC: Wow...that's a hard question for me to answer because I felt that I never got a chance to really be myself on the show. I let my nerves take over sooooo bad, it was ridiculous!!! All I remember was stutt---ttttering and shaking the whole time!!haha...It’s funny now, but I think a lot of people remember me more for that than my voice.Now, most poeple cant even believe that I am the same person I was back then. Thanks to the show, I learned to put my nerves to the side and just be myself.Thank goodness...haha

IP: What is your most notable memory of the audition process?

SC: Oh my Gosh, when I walked into that room and saw Paula, Randy and Simon for the first time, that was Nuttssssssss.... I couldn't believe it. I was just watching them on t.v a few months ago and BAm....there I was standing in front of them. I never in a million years thought I would even make it that far.

IP: Are there any idol hopefuls that you still keep in contact with today?

SC: I talk to Ashley Hartman once in a while via MySpace. She was always a sweetheart and a good person. We still support each other’s work.

IP: What advice would you give to someone with the dream of being on American Idol?

SC: Just go for it and give it your all! Don't let your nerves get in your way and ALWAYS be yourself!!! As far as song choice....Hmmmm...Don't, whatever you do...DO NOT sing a Whitney Houston song!!!!hahaha....Trust me, you will always be compared to her and no matter how great you sound covering her material, people are just waiting to take you under!!! Trust me!!hahaha...

IP: What is the current project you are working on? Music? Acting? Career?

SC: I just moved to L.A and I'm working on my first album. Its Alternative/ Rock. My music talks about ups and downs of my life. A lot of the things I've been through, people didn't know about when I was on idol. At that time I was still trying to find out who I was as an artist and as a person. I had just moved here from Botswana, Africa under crazy circumstances, so I didn't really know who I was or were I fit in. Now, I write a lot of my own songs and I've realized it means more when I'm being true to myself as an artist and my fans seem to like it....YEAHhhhh..

IP: Who was your favorite contestant throughout the audition process?

SC: Awe, everyone was so sweet. Vocally, I would say Clay Aiken...He really is such a nice guy and ridiculously talented. Kimberly Locke was nice to me too.My overall favs I would say was Ashley Hartman and Hadas!Those were my girlssssssss...I spent a lot of time with them during the show.

IP: What should your fans be watching out for in the near future?

SC: I have new material coming out soon. Please subscribe to my blog on myspace so you can stay informed on when my music is coming out. Also if you live in the Los Angeles area, I have a few performances coming up as well.....So stay tuned!

IP: Which idol contestant are you listening to in your CD/mp3 player?

SC: www.myspace.com/sylvierocks

Oh, I still listen to Kelly Clarkson’s Breakaway album all the time. It’s awesome!!!

IP: Any other insights and comments

SC: I just want to say thank you so much to everyone that has supported me in my musical journey. To find out more about me please check me out on my MySpace and feel free to leave me comments. I love the fans!!!! You guys are just awesome!!!Sorry it’s been soooooooooo long since idol has heard from me, but now everyone knows where to find me. www.myspace.com/sylvierocks
Luvvvvvvvvvvvvv you guyzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

xoxo
sylvie

Coming soon will be my interview with Sylvia Chibiliti.

I just received word back from her today therefore, it will be posted sometime on Sunday Sept. 28th. Followed by my interview with Alexandra Bachelier in the middle of the week. Check it out!!!






the image is property of americanidol.com

Here it is at last readers my post for Ashley Velez and Jordan Southerland. Sorry for the delay but I have been having technical difficulties lately cause I got a new computer and have been transfering my important documents from my lap top to it. And not knowing exactly where to find everything-lol.

So here’s a little bit of background on these two individuals. If you weren’t already both of thes individuals were in the top 100 of Season 5. Making it to various points in the holly wood week.

Ashley Guadamuz auditioned in San Francisco, CA and her audition songs included Robyn Do You Know What It Takes and Leanne Rimes’ Can’t Fight the Moonlight.

IP: How has the overall American Idol audition process affected your life today?
AG: The audition in a nut shell has given me an overall attitude of confidence. Being that at the time of the audition I had just passed the age limit of 16yrs old.I wasn't completely sure of what my talent was capable of just yet, that is until I had made it to the top 50.

IP: What is your most notable memory of the audition process?
AG: I remember while making through the first screening with simon, paula, and randy Simons words were " I absolutely love’d it." and with that alone, just really amped even more me to keep moving on. =]

IP: Are there any idol hopefuls that you still keep in contact with today?
AG: DEFINATLY! Ofcource, my oldest brother
Freddy Martinez: He had made it with me as well on season 5. (keep an eye for him this year, you mayyyy just see a familiar face ;0)
Todd Slingsby: of season 5. Had gotten cut same round as me but is still working his way to the top on AI this season.

IP: What is the current project you are working on? Music? Acting? Career?
AG: Well, as of the last few months i had relocated myself to Hollywood, Ca. Within the move I had put together my first singer/songwriter demo which you can find
@ MYSPACE. COM/ASHLEYVELEZMUSIC.

IP: What advice would you give to someone with the dream of being on American Idol?
AG: Walk into the audition telling yourself that "you ARE the next American Idol" and as easy as it is to doubt yourself, which EVERYONE does... just pull the positive energy and make it happen for yourself.

IP: Who was your favorite contestant throughout the audition process?
AG: Id definitely have to say vocally, Katherine McPhee.

IP: Who is your idol/role model and how have they inspired you?
AG: Kelly Clarkson all the way! She has inspired me in soo many different ways, as a matter of fact. I feel that I can relate to her as far as being passionate about our music, to moving from such a small suburban community to Los Angeles to pursue our dreams.

IP: Which idol contestant are you listening to in your cd/mp3 player?
AG: Kelly Clarkson & Justin Guarini..?

IP: Have you auditioned for more than one season? If so which ones.
AG: Yes, i have auditioned for it 2years ago and unfortunately did not make it through... but is LOVING the new move surrounded by such talented people with SOO much Opportunities, it really is amazing.
Ashley has an amazing R&B and Acoustic sound so I would recommend you check out her myspace music page. Jordan Southerland also has a very soulful gentle sound to so check out his myspace and youtube pages

IP: How has the overall American Idol audition process affected your life today?
JS: It Motivated me to keep going and pursuing my music and do what I look to do and not give up. I Do not have a plan "B" . Music is my only plan.

IP: What is your most notable memory of the audition process?
JS: Freaking out when I made it to Hollywood.

IP: What advice would you give to someone with the dream of being on American Idol?
JS: Go for it! Be yourself, confident, and show them all you've got.

IP: What is the current project you are working on? Music? Acting? Career?
JS: Well It's been a few years since I last appeared on Idol. I was 17 years old, now I am 20. Nowadays I am just singing as much as possible and spreading my name as much as I can. I am also really involved on You Tube. I have a channel on there, and it's going really well! I am also currently Involved in a "online singing contest' "Cree Ingles Idol Search" as a judge. It's for singers, who maybe can't attend the "American Idol auditions" or are to young or old. All you gotta do is have a camera or webcam, and thats it.

IP: Who is your idol/role model and how have they inspired you?
JS: My grandfather, he always told me to go for my dreams and do the best I could in anything I accomplish.

IP: How has past auditions prepared you for this year??
JS: hahah. I honestly think that preparing for 3 years and growing up has helped a lot. I mean, I am going to be myself and do my thing and make it or not.

IP: Which idol contestant are you listening to in your cd/mp3 player?
JS: David Cook's cd before he was on Idol. David Cook is amazing and he has an insane! vocal range!

IP: Any other insights and comments
JS: "Dont stress, just go for it."

Also my websites I can be reached on or updates
www. youtube. com/southerlandjl
or
www. myspace. com/jordansoutherlandmusic

Next Week I will be posting my interviews with Jordan Southerland and Ashley Velez. Both of which were contestants on American Idol Season 5. Making it to various points in the holly wood part of the audition.

I'd like to apologize to all of my readers for posting this late but its finally here so i hope you like it.

Camile Velasco – Interview

IP:
How has the overall American Idol audition process affected your life today?
CV: American Idol changed my life completely....!! It was definitely what made me decide, for sure, that i wanted a career in the music industry...whether it be on or off stage...it made me more in-tune to music and my goals/dreams in life....it opened my eyes, and it made me grow as a person, writer, and performer....time of my life....!!


IP:
What is your most notable memory of the audition process?
CV: My most notable memory would probably be walking in that room in front of Simon, Paula, and Randy it was the longest 50 steps of my life....and the dead silence right before they told me to sing the song that i would be singing...my heart was pounding like crazy...!!!!


IP:
Are there any idol hopefuls that you still keep in contact with today?
CV: I talk to Fantasia the most....she usually calls me when she's in la...(since i live out here) and sometimes Jasmine...we are from the same state (Hawaii) so you know how that is....

IP:
What advice would you give to someone with the dream of being on American Idol?
CV: I would say....just have fun....take it in as an experience to learn from, and most importantly, be yourself...!!

IP:
What is the current project you are working on? Music? Acting? Career?
CV: Right now i am working on my debut album...released through indie hip hop label up above records....first quarter 2009....i am very excited....!!

IP:
Who is your idol/role model and how have they inspired you?
CV: My role model would have to be someone like beyonce'....she works so hard to achieve her goals...and i admire that...!!

IP:
What should your fans be watching out for in the near future?
CV: Please watch out for the album...debut long awaited album....early 2009, and please tune in to camile.tv on youtube.com/camiletv

IP:
Which idol contestant are you listening to in your cd/mp3 player?
CV: I would have to say fantasia...hehe...that's my girl...!!

IP:
Any other insights and comments….
CV: Yes....of course.....always follow your heart....and most definitely....love life...love, love, love life....cause it can be taken away from you in the blink of an eye....god bless....!!

-Camile.
!!

Coming this Tuesday my interview with Camile Velasco.........





The image used in this post belongs to americanidol.com

IP: How has the overall American Idol audition process affected your life today?
LW: The audition process essentially prepared me for all that was to come in my future musical endeavors. I've been all over the place, met record label executives, performed for huge audiences, and auditioned for commercials, TV shows etc... The idol process was the first big audition process I ever went through. It was a good learning tool for me. I guess you could say that I was learning the ropes through the process.

IP: What is your most notable memory of the audition process?
LW: There are so many memories that it's difficult to choose. I guess the most notable part of it could be the surreal feeling that stayed with me throughout the process. I couldn't believe that I was really there. It was such a great sense of accomplishment and challenge at the same time.

IP: Are there any idol hopefuls that you still keep in contact with today?
LW: Yes... I spoke to two of them just yesterday! Charly Lowry and Eric Yoder. Both were in the semi finals with me.

IP: What is the current project you are working on? Music? Acting? Career?

LW: I'm working on all aspects of entertainment. Music has been an ongoing part of my life. I'm always in and out of the studio or writing new music getting ready to go to the studio. I have a burning passion for the craft and will always be involved in it somehow or another. I just started taking acting classes and will be attending broadcasting school in October. I love acting! I landed a national commercial for TBS a few months ago and was in an international Bacardi commercial featuring George Clooney last year. Modeling has always been part of my life as well. I continuously work modeling jobs and that seems to be my bread and butter most of the time financially but I'm hoping to break out of that soon. My ultimate goal is to make music for all of my days on this earth, get into film and television, and one day soon I'd like to open up my own business.

IP: What advice would you give to someone with the dream of being on American Idol?
LW: I would tell them to make sure they know what they are getting involved in. It's a tough road and not for the weak at heart. If you don't understand the audition process... which I didn't when I auditioned... get educated! Know the music biz! It's a beast!... and the most important part of it... believe in yourself and trust your judgment. Listen to the judges but ignore the noise around you, i.e. internet haters, people who talk junk, etc... There are a million of them. Most of which have never attempted something so fantastic. Stay strong!

IP: Who was your favorite contestant throughout the audition process?
LW: My AI roommate, who many of you didn't see on TV, was someone named Jeanine. She is so beautiful and so talented. She was cut right before the semi finals. It was so unfortunate because I thought she could have won the whole thing!

IP: Who is your idol/role model and how have they inspired you?
LW: My parents... they are amazing. They raised 4 kids in poverty and showed us so much love that we had no idea that we were poor. My dad is a rock. He's so strong and wise. My mother is an angel. She's such a kind soul. Together they made me multidimensional. I'm strong and aggressive but still compassionate and understanding.

IP: Which idol contestant are you listening to in your cd/mp3 player?
LW: Carrie Underwood... I have a secret love of country music..-thanks to my fiancé'.

IP: Have you tried out more than once if so where?
LW: Yes, the first season I was urged to audition by a friend only hours before the audition. I had no idea what I was auditioning for and I choked. LOL! It was in Atlanta. My second audition was season 3 in Hawaii. That's the audition that put me through to Hollywood.

IP: Any additional insights or comments.
LW: I'm working on a new project. It's a fairly organic sound with a twist of soul and funk. It will be posted soon on myspace and on my website. The website is changing to www. lisawilsonmusic. com. I also have a youtube page now (it's not really ready) youtube. com/lisawilsonmusic and my myspace will be switching over to myspace. com/lisawilsonmusic next month.

The image used in this post was submitted by Lisa Wilson
The interview with Lisa was received by myself on July 22, 2008

Coming soon my interview with American Idol Top 32 Season 3 Contestant Lisa Wilson!!!!
















The image of Lisa is property of americanidol.com

Okay IdolPhenomena readers here it is my interview with Rodesia Eaves. I hope you all enjoy it. I would like to thank Rodesia aka. R.E. Vintage for sharing her thoughts with us. Thanks.!!!

IP: How has the overall American Idol audition process affected your life today?
RE: The overall American Idol process was a good experience. I wouldn't change any moment of the show. It really gave me first hand experience with being in front of the camera, learning how to deal with the pressures of competition, and interviewing in front of the press. It showed me all of the tools that I needed to succeed in the entertainment industry.

IP: What is your most notable memory of the audition process?
RE: The most notable memory of the audition process would have to be the parts that were not aired. We were in Pasadena in the auditorium lined up on stage in a group of 10 and we all had to sing one after another. Tenia Taylor went before me and was contemplating which part of the song I was going to start singing at, and before I knew it she was finished and it was my turn. So I began to sing an Aretha Franklin hit (She is one of the greatest artist alive), and I just began to sing with all my soul and as I finished the entire row of people, Nikki McKibbin, Tenia Taylor, Jim Verraros just to name a few began to clap. I was the only one they had clapped for out of all the contestants. Randy loved it, Paula said you blew me away, and the highlight came when Simon said “Now that is a star"! I swear tears came to my eyes. I respected him and Randy so much because hey supported and believed in me the entire way through the process, until they gave me that song Daydream Believer by the Monkees! What were they thinking?!lol

IP: Are there any idol hopefuls that you still keep in contact with today?
RE: I keep in touch with my best friend Justin Waddell known as Frankee Razor now, Whom I dearly love, Kelli Glover, Fantasia, and I have seen Kelly Clarkson at a few events, and that is about it.

IP: What is the current project you are working on? Music? Acting? Career?
RE: I am currently writing for a lot of main stream artist, I am working on my own album due out very soon, and a movie soundtrack called "Rhythm". So I am really busy, traveling, still grinding trying to make my dreams a reality, by the grace and blessings of god. IP: What advice would you give to someone with the dream of being on American Idol?
RE: I would say don't get caught up in the hype behind being an "American idol", but get excited about sharing the gift that you were blessed with, with the entire world. Focus on what you believe in and give it your best, never let your nerves side track you and get you mental off track. That is what happens when you are not grounded and focused. You can do whatever you want to do if it is in your destiny from god, and he blesses us all with a gift to use whether it is singing, dancing or smiling at someone while walking down the street and that person was having a hard day and you offer a compliment that could have possibly saved their life. Always love yourself regardless of what anyone says and focus!!!! IP: Who was your favorite contestant throughout the audition process?
RE: My best friend Frankee Razor (Justinn Waddell), we love to laugh at any and everything that was funny and we created our own "space", and we were the life of the party and created "Jam sessions"!!-lol

IP: Who is your idol/role model and how have they inspired you?
RE: Honestly, and most would say oh really?? but I would have to say God. I am not claiming to be a " goodie goodie" by any means because I am a rock star to the fullest, but when it comes to being a wonderful and genuine person I strive to be like god. there are too many fake people who just talk and act on impulse to get a response out of the next person and I pride myself in making sure I do what I say and say what I mean. Be genuine with people and love unconditionally, as god loves us. I speak to all my fans when they see me out, I answer all fan mail, I give money to homeless people on the streets after I make them tell me why they are living this way and what they can do to change their lifestyle!! But I pride myself in being a stand up kind of young lady!

IP: Which idol contestant are you listening to in your cd/mp3 player?
RE: Frankee Razor of course, and myself!! Promotion, promotion, promotions!!lol Quick side note, I also have a clothing line with Frankee called "Mullets United", which is so punk rock glamour awesome!! I am also going by my pop/rock name R.E. Vintage!!

God bless and thank you all for your time and for coming by to read a little about me!! I love you all and I am still grinding so please keep me in your prayers for my success and I will do the same for the world!! Tell a friend to tell a friend about R.E. Vintage!! aka Rodesia Eaves!! Muwah

Coming this Saturday
My interview with R.E. Vintage aka. Rodesia Eaves
Check it Out!!!




This image belongs to R.E. Vintage.

Okay blogspot readers here it s my first official post of the IdolPhenomena blog. I hope you like it and look forward to reading it in the future.
My first two interviews were compiled July 9^th with Natalie Burge of American Idol season 1 and Ryan Farrar who for your true idol fans should remember him from season 1, he’s the guy that sang Bohemian Rhapsody and earned himself a spot in holly wood week.

IP: How has the overall American Idol audition affected your life today?
NB: When anyone has an opportunity to experience something so out of the ordinary such as American Idol you are honestly left with no choice but to be affected. For some it is positive for some it’s negative – for me every experience no matter what the process always concludes as a positive result. I was 16 years old for my first audition for American Idol. It was a trip to say the least. I feel the first season had such a massive advantage in comparison to the follow seasons because we were the “guinea pigs.” We wore our thoughts and emotions on our sleeves (for those of us who had the balls) and the friendships that were created were real not for the camera and not to get ahead in the industry. More than anything American Idol gave me an intense learning experience and friendships that have become family. I lived with Christopher Aaron and Jim Verraros for a few years right after the show – what a time in my life.

RF: Confidence. No matter how pressure packed a situation I find myself in, I know it cannot be as nerve wrecking as waiting 12 hours to sing for 30 seconds without musical accompaniment, with the cameras rolling. I've never been nervous for an audition since being on A.I.

IP: What was your most notable memory of the audition process?
NB: The audition process was surreal due to the fact that so many people from so many different backgrounds and experiences all sat together for HOURS waiting to hear the same words. For me the most notable memory of the audition process had nothing to do with the show in and of itself but was a much more personal note. My father took me to the 1st call-back auditions in Chicago. It was at these auditions we would find out if we were “Going to Hollywood” or not. I’ll never forget the look on my father’s face, the texture of his shirt when I jumped in his arms, or the quiver in his lips as tears swelled in his eyes of happiness. But, you see it wasn’t necessarily because I had “Made it to Hollywood,” though he was thrilled for me; it was because for the first time he saw what made my heart explode with passion and joy. . . music-lyrics-vocals.

RF: Well getting the nod to go to Hollywood followed by running the streets of Chicago w/ Ryan Seacrest was quite surreal. (Which, for the record, I did this before Jim Verraros, who auditioned for the judges the day after me)

Camping out outside of Aloha Stadium for season 3 was rather amazing as well. Having previously been on the show I was kind of a celebrity to the other auditioners, and I met some really cool people, including a really cool girl from Oklahoma named Tanya, who had also came to Hawaii alone just to audition, and was going to give me a ride back to Waikiki; however, I made it through the opening round, and she didn't, and I've never seen or heard from her since... sad.

IP: Are there any idol hopefuls that you still in contact with today?
NB: I’m still very close to Christopher Aaron and Jim Verraros. We lived together and we’ve even worked together since then. I was a dancer for Jim when his first album “Rollercoaster” came out. I was just as Chris’s yesterday hanging out with him and his dog Digi. Yea- they are both brother from another mother and father to me. . I love them both dearly.

IP: What are you currently working on?
NB: I just graduated from Columbia College with a degree in Music Business Management/Music Production. Back in Chicago I was working with Zak, a fellow Columbia student who runs a production company called Wildlife Productions. Now that’s a bad ass group of guys who know how to create great music. I’m still writing songs with Zak even though I’m 2,000 miles away in LA now. Actually, I just moved back out LA about 2 weeks ago with my best friend Karli, and graphic design artist. So, I’m currently song writing, singing, and loving every single minute of it. Life is pretty freaking fun.

RF: College. I'm about to begin my senior year at Saint Josephs College, majoring in Political Science with minors in Communication and Sociology. At school I'm the captain of the Mock Trial team, and the President of the Columbian Players (our theater group; I recently had a lead in the spring musical), and have been doing lots of improv. I'm hoping to get into grad school and pursue a PHD with the hopes of being a college prof. Though I'm very pleased with my evolution as an actor, and haven't out-ruled pursuing this avenue. I've not given up music, as no true musician ever does. I mostly play with just an acoustic guitar, and I've written many songs. I'm always open to joining a band if the situation is right. My last band, Fourtitude, was very promising but failed because we kept losing bassists and drummers. I'm currently piecing together songs for an album I'm planning to record in the next few weeks, tentatively titled: Diary of a Radman.

IP: What advice would you give someone who want to be on American Idol?
NB: If AmericIan Idol is your “dream” then I guess the best advice I could give would be to remember it’s a TV show and to have an understanding of the industry. It’s all a business if you forget about passion.

RF: Get the honest opinion of someone who isn't afraid to tell you if you suck. And prepare like hell, because you really only get one shot. I tried to make it back, but they really never gave me a fair shot after the 1st season.

IP: Who was your favorite contestant throughout the audition process?
NB: The whole process was such a whirlwind that all I could think about was “oh my gosh this is amazing… look mom – ohh look wow.” HaHaHa It was about creating relationships for me. So if using that as my foundation without a doubt my favorite was and is Christopher Aaron. He is a kind spirit, a good friend, and a killer artist.

RF: Probably Kristin Holt, in Hollywood she had a contestant cam, and she got me to give her a taste of bohemian rhapsody. She was too nice to turn down, and seemed like a really fun person I wished I'd had the chance to get to know her better.

IP: Who is your idol/role model and how have they inspired you?
NB: My role models are my friends. The people I surround myself with everyday that live life like they mean it. It’s a beautiful process to be apart of and grow in. My friends continue to astound me. I love them with such a passion. It’s amazing when you can hug the very people that make you want to be a better person.

RF: Bono. I think he's a modern day Jesus. He's so cool, incredibly talented, and is always taking on a cause to make the world a better place. He also has a sweet accent.

IP: Which idol contestant are you listening to in your cd/mp3 player?
NB: I would say Kelly Clarkson. She is a rad girl with guts, pipes, and brains.

RF: David Cook singing Eleanor Rigby. I think he's the best winner they've had since Kelly. IP: Have you auditioned for more than one season?
RF: For season 3, in Hawaii (singing Paula's Straight Up) and 4 (didn't get on t.v.)

IP: Can you share any of the judges comments?
RF: There are a few good ones that never made t.v. (I won't rehash the ones that did) In Hollywood for season 1 I sang "Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay" one of 5 song choices they gave us. After which Paula said: "That was even better than when you were in L.A.!" all perky like. Nigel ran in and was like: "Wait, wait, he auditioned in Chicago... lets take that again and instead of L.A. say CHICAGO." Followed by Randy saying something like "Yeah that was tight dog." Finally Simon came in with a Cowell classic: "I personally disagree, I think that you slipped through the net, and you've proved that you really can't sing at all." Which I found humorous considering Simon was the one who really pushed for me to get to Hollywood in the first place... I didn't think it was funny when I was cut from the show about 8 hours later (on the show they claimed this cut happened immediately... ha!)

Image Credit: For the photo submitted by Natalie the credit goes to Karli Foss and for the image of Ryan credit goes to himself.