Ashley Rodriguez

Ashley Rodriguez, also known as "Ashley Makailah" was featured on the ninth season premiere of the hit show American Idol. After singing "If I Ain't Got You" originally performed by Alicia Keys. The response from the judges was very positive, with Kara DioGuardi saying "If that's the bar, then everyone else should go home." Simon Cowell echoed the feedback, saying "Some people have got it. And I think you may have it."http://content.usatoday.com/communities/idolchatter/post/2010/01/boston-day-one-sends-18--including-ashley-rodriguez-and-tyler-grady/1 It was rumored early-on that Rodriguez would make through Hollywood week to the Top 24. The rumor was confirmed during the final Hollywood Week episode, airing on February 17, 2009. But, she didn't make it past the top 24, as she was voted off during the first elimination show, which aired on February 25, 2010.

While attending high school, Rodriguez earned a full scholarship to Berklee College. She danced for over 10 years. Ashley loves The Oprah Winfrey Show, yoga and food.http://content.usatoday.com/communities/idolchatter/post/2009/12/hollywood-bound-ashley-makailah-rodriguez/1

Ashley Rodriguez on American Idol

During her first live performance as a part of the top 24, Rodriquez sang "Happy," originally by Leona Leiws. Kara DioGuardi thought it was a big song to take on, and there were some nice moments, but that there were also moments that weren't great. Kara asked Ashley to do something different to stand out. Randy Jackson and Ellen Degeneres agreed, and told her she was too predictable. Simon Cowell felt the arrangement was clumsy, that there was no originality in the piece and that she may face getting voted off the show.

American Idol Songs

Top 24 Song, February 23, 2010: "Happy" by Leona Lewis