Carly Smithson

Currently living in San Diego, CA, but having been born (on Sept. 12, 1983) and raised in Dublin, Ireland, Smithson made her singing debut in "Les Misérables" at the Olympic Theatre in native city. Smithson moved to Los Angeles at age 13 to pursue her singing career. Before auditioning for "American Idol," she was working in a bar and running a tattoo shop with her husband. Her first time auditioning for the show, her work visa was an issue, but the second time auditioning for "Idol" was the charm, with all three judges unanimous in their appreciation for her powerful voice.