Iraheta was born in Glendale, California to Salvadoran immigrants. According to her parents, she has been singing since she was a toddler. Before rising to prominence, she usually sang in local Latin supermarkets. In 2006, Iraheta won the Telemundo reality show Quinceañera, where she sang in both English and Spanish. The prize was a reward of USD $50,000 and a recording contract, but only the reward money was ever granted. In 2009, Allison Iraheta competed on American Idol. She achieved acclaim for her rock sound and unique style, making it into the finals. Allison remained on the show until being eliminated at the final four, finishing in 4th place. The mentor of that week, Slash, praised Iraheta, saying, “Allison didn’t deserve to be voted off so soon. She has amazing potential.” American Idol music director Rickey Minor was “absolutely shocked” at her departure. After her elimination on Idol, Iraheta made guest appearances on Live with Regis and Kelly, The Ellen Degeneres Show, Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Larry King Live, local FOX television affiliates, and numerous radio stations nation-wide. She performed on the season eight finale of American Idol, including a group medley of Pink’s “So What” with her fellow contestants and a duet of “Time After Time” with original artist Cyndi Lauper. Official Site: www.allisoniraheta.com |
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