• Although he is now known as one of the three judges on the hit reality show American Idol, Randy Jackson spent most of 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)

• 1. Full Name: Randall Darius Jackson
  2. Born: June 23, 1956
  3. Origin: Baton Rouge, Louisiana
  4. Primary instrument: Bass guitar
  5. Label: Columbia Records
  6. Grammy Winning Producer
  7. Known for: American Idol
  8. Producer: America's Best Dance Crew

• Musical Background

  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

  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.

Categories