Erica Rhodes, who in the past had a part on Barney and Friends, auditioned for the ninth season of American Idol in Dallas, Texas. Rhodes was dressed as a dominatrix and brought a whip along with her.

Rhodes is a 23-year-old graduate of Southern Methodist University, where she majored in broadcast journalism.http://www.rickey.org/?p=30572 She currently lives in Irving, Texas.

Rhodes sang two songs during the audition:

1. “The Barney Theme Song” from Barney and Friends - as she entered, and
2. “Free Your Mind” by En Vogue, during which Rhodes cracked her whip

When quizzed by Simon Cowell, Rhodes was asked “What’s the big dream here?” She replied that she "wanted to show that Barney kids grow up!" When playfully accused of being a dirty little girl, Erica said her role model was Janet Jackson and therefore what did the the judges expect!"

Rhodes received four yes votes from the judges and proceeded to the next round of auditions in Hollywood, California.

Further down this page are three videos of Rhodes' previous roles:

1. Erica Rhodes - Barney and Friends cast video
2. Erica Rhodes - "Nothing Left to Lose" (single)
3. An appearance on the Trap Starz Clik video for "Get It Big”

Simon Cowell commented "Well you have definitely made an impression here, Erica".

Actor, Neil Patrick Harris says "Yes Barney's girls grow up to be dirty little girls."

Simon Cowell said "He likes people who make an effort. You've gone from Barney to this and it takes guts."

Kara said "It's really rare that somebody comes in with the attitude I am going to do my thing. This is who I am and here it comes. I really liked this about you, I think you have great presence."

The judges must have liked what they saw, Erica received a unanimous 4 "YES" votes. As a result Erica was put through to the next round of auditions in Hollywood, California.