American Idol

FOX ALL-NEW WED AND THU 8/7C

Presented by:

Promoted content

If you could perform in any venue in the world, where would that be? Why?
I would like to perform in Madison Square Garden because it's right in my backyard in NYC and I've passed by it so many times and imagined what it would feel like to have my name up there in lights.
How has music inspired you?
Music has made my life so amazing. I've been able to feel so many things - emotions because of music, travel to so many different places and have met so many amazing people.
Do you have any formal singing training?
Yes! I got my 1st scholarship to take singing and piano lessions when I was in kindergarden.
What album would your friends be surprised you own?
Damian Marley and Nas
If you could perform with any person or group, who would it be and why?
I would love to perform a duet with Marc Anthony. That is one of my dreams.
What do you do to unwind after a performance?
I usually call my mom and family and tell them how it went! They make me feel so good,.
Which theme week would be most challenging to you and why?
I am ready to try anything. It's only a challenge if I think of it that way.
What theme week would you love to have for Season 10?
Broadway would be nice!
What's your dream song to perform?
My dream song would be "I Will Always Love You" in English and Spanish.
What makes a great performer?
A great performer is one who feels every lyric, every sentence, every verse, every melody
How do you combat stage fright?
I don't get stage fright anymore!
How do you plan on differentiating yourself in the competition?
I definitely want to make myself known for my culture, my roots and that is being a Latina. I love singing in Spanish and I want to incorporate that into my performances.
If you could model your career after an artist, who would it be and why?
Jennifer Lopez! She is so talented and such a smart buisness woman. She tries everything and succeeds!
If you couldn't sing, what other talent would you most like to have?
I would love to play many instruments and be able to paint and draw. But I'd love to be an astronaut so I'd like to be able to really comprehend math, science and technology.
What has been the most unique job/chore you've ever had?
During the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade I passed out these little paper crowns to all the little girls. They were princesses for the day!
How would you define success in life?
I don't think we're ever "successful." I feel that as humans, we tend to want more in life. We're curious, but if I feel happy and at peace, then I know I
What's the most embarrassing thing you've ever seen or experienced??
Tough one! I was singing for my graduation in middle school and I forgot the words to my song!
What's your proudest moment in life outside of American Idol?
I have 2. In high school, freshman year, I got the part of Maria in West Side Story. It was the first time a freshman had a lead part in a musical. #2 - I sang in a tribute for Juan Luis Guerra at the Berklee Commencement concert. It was an honor! He's Dominican like me.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
People would be surprised to know that I am the silliest person ever! I'm always laughing and making joke, but only a few see that side of me.
If you have 24 hours to do anything you wanted, what would you do?
I would have a BIG concert! And invite everyone. I'd have lots of food and music and just sing and dance. Then I'd go and take a rocket and land on the moon.
Who is the person that you would most like to meet?
I'd love to meet Beyonce. She's such an inspiration to me and a great influence to female artists.
Do you have a favorite quote, phrase or personal motto / words to live by?
Everything happens for a reason.
What's been the most surprising part of the Idol experience so far?
Actually performing on that live stage! After watching on TV and visualizing myself up there. It's so surreal.
What have you learned about yourself by going through the Idol audition process?
I have learned that I am able to achieve anything I want if I believe and I work hard for it.
What are you hoping to get out of your Idol experience?
I am hoping to jumpstart a really long career, build a huge fan base and meet people, make connections and build friendships that will last forever.

Videos of Karen Rodriguez

Photos of Karen Rodriguez