Randy Jackson is a judge on the American reality singing competition show, American Idol. Jackson made headlines in late July 2010 when news circulated on the Web that he nearly was axed from the show when producers were "cleaning house".http://www.tmz.com/2010/07/31/randy-jackson-american-idol-judge-simon-cowel-kara-dioguardi/ This was on the heels of news that hosts Kara DioGuardi was fired, and Ellen Degeneres announced her resignation. Simon Cowell had already announced his departure from the show. This leaves Jackson as the only remaining original Idol judge, and the only judge to carryover from season 9.

Prior to his Idol stint, Jackson was known for his career as a session and back-up musician with such hit bands as Journey. His "Dawgisms," such as "wud up dawg" and "it was OK dawg," have been his signature statements when addressing the finalists on the television series.YouTube Video: Randy Jackson's "Dawgs" (Time: 1:42) In early 2009, Jackson published his second book, Body and Soul.9News.com: Randy Jackson: Body With Soul (January 2, 2009)

Randy Jackson has play with many acts including Aretha Franklin, Bruce Springsteen, Journey, George Michael, Blue Oyster Cult, Herbie Hancock, Richard Marx, Michel Camilo, Billy Joel, Bon Jovi, Michael Bolton, and Bob Dylan. In addition to his session playing, Jackson has produced albums for Mariah Carey, Celine Dion and Madonna. He released his first album Randy Jackson's Music Club, Vol. One in 2008.

American Idol is a FOX reality show where contestants sing to compete for a million dollar recording contract. The singers are judged by Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Kara DioGuardi. Guests are eliminated if they receive the lowest vote total from the American public each week.