There are many reasons why audiences can’t get enough of 18-year-old Allison Iraheta and it’s not just because of her Manic Panic red locks. The now brunette singer was the most popular female in Fox’s hit television series, “American Idol,” during its eighth season. The daughter of Salvadorian parents won millions of viewers over with her powerful rock vocals, which are inspired by her favorite band, 80’s girl-duo Heart. Although she finished in fourth place, Iraheta was one of the season’s first singers to land a record deal for her debut album, titled Just Like You. Since then, Iraheta has been touring with fellow “American Idol” contestant Adam Lambert and recording new songs for her growing fans. Now that superstars Jennifer Lopez and Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler took over Simon Cowell’s place as the new celebrity judges of “American Idol,” Iraheta has plenty to say for viewers tuning in for the series’ 10th season. NocheLatina had a brief chat with the rockera about what her life has really been like since competing for “American Idol,” touring with Lambert, and whether Lopez will open more doors for fellow Latinos.
nocheLatina: What has your life been like since competing for ‘American Idol?’
Allison Iraheta: It has been a whirlwind. So much has happened since then. I have definitely grown mentally and physically. I got to do everything I dreamed of as a little girl...tour, record, meet amazing people, and now continuing to work on new stuff.
nocheLatina: You recently opened up for Adam Lambert during his GlamNation tour. How was touring with him different from anything else that you’ve done as an artist?
Allison Iraheta: It was such a great experience. The fact that we’re like family makes everything on the road so much easier and fun. It was different because I was with my band and performing for people that were actually there for the music.
nocheLatina: Did Adam Lambert teach you any lessons about being glam?
Allison Iraheta: I remember Adam once telling me that sometimes ‘more is more!’
nocheLatina: Out of the new celebrity judges for this season of ‘American Idol,’ which one are you looking forward to seeing the most and why?
Allison Iraheta: Both Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler! I’m such a big fan of both Jennifer and Steven. I think they’re going to bring something really different to the table that will keep viewers at the edge of their seats.
nocehLatina: Everyone is hoping that Jennifer Lopez will add some much-needed Latin flair to this season. How do you think she will be as a judge?
Allison Iraheta: I think she’s going to be great. Jennifer is so real and people love that.
nocheLatina: How do you think the new celebrity judges will impact the way audiences see ‘American Idol,’ especially Latinos?
Allison Iraheta: I think they’re going to do a great job of grabbing the attention of viewers. More Latinos will probably be introduced to ‘American Idol’ because of J-Lo.
nocheLatina: Since you auditioned for ‘American Idol,’ you recorded a new album. Could you talk a little bit more about that?
Allison Iraheta: I’m so proud of it. It’s my baby, my first one. It was such a great experience overall. Getting to work with amazing people and going on tour to promote it was such a blessing.
nocheLatina: If you could go back in time, what would you tell yourself before auditioning for ‘American Idol?’
Allison Iraheta: Relax, you got this!
nocheLatina: What advice would you like to share with those who are now considering auditioning for ‘American Idol’ in the future, all thanks to the new celebrity panel?
Allison Iraheta: Always stay true to yourself and be positive throughout the whole experience. Don’t let the Hollywood bull crap get to your head.
To learn more about season 10 of "American Idol," read our interview with celebrity judge Steven Tyler here.
