Performed: 2-25-03 and 3-4-03 (Wildcard)
Age: 20 yrs old
Hometown: New York, NY
Favorite Song: “Open Up Your Heart,” “Crazy for You”
Idol: Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Madonna
What songs has Nasheka performed on the show?
"Wind Beneath My Wings" - 3/4/03
"Open My Heart" - 2/25/03
Do you have a job?
Yes, I work for a fitness club. Customer service as well as personal training.
Do you have any formal singing training?
I have sung in several choruses. I've had voice therapy with a professional voice doctor, and voice training classes at SUNY-Purchase.
Where have you performed before?
I've been in many plays, chorus performances and talent shows. I also sing for open mics in local music bars and restaurants.
When did you first start to sing?
When I was about four years old.
What is your favorite song to sing?
"Open Up My Heart" by Yolanda Adams.
What is the first concert you went to?
A concert in Madison Square Garden for several different artists like Aaliyah, Destiny's Child, Usher, etc…
What is the last concert you went to?
U2 concert.
What other talents do you have?
I used to dance ballet and modern years ago. I have training in acting.
If you don't make it on AMERICAN IDOL, what will you do?
I will continue to pursue my singing, and I will go straight to the top of the charts once I get started.
What are your goals in life?
I hope to fulfill myself to the highest way possible. I want to be successful in the entertainment business as well as everything else I do.
What album would your friends be surprised you own?
Nothing, because all of my friends know that I am very versatile.
What is the first CD you ever bought?
Tevin Campbell "I'm Ready."
What is in your CD player right now?
A mixed CD with Michael Jackson, Vanessa Carlton, Musiq, Alicia Keys, India.Arie, Madonna.
Who is your AMERICAN IDOL?
Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Madonna.
What is your favorite type of music?
I love gospel, pop, R&B and some rock and soul.
What is your favorite song?
"Open Up My Heart," "Crazy For You."
Favorite male pop artist?
Michael Jackson.
Favorite female pop artist?
Whitney Houston.
Favorite album?
I don't have a favorite album.
Who in the music world do you think your style is most like?
I'd say that I have my own original style, but I've been compared to Mariah Carey and a few other singers like Roberta Flack.
Most embarrassing moment?
I had a recent moment where I fell down a flight of stairs in the cafeteria in front of all my fellow classmates.
If you couldn't sing, which talent would you most like to have?
If I couldn't sing, I would probably be stronger in my dancing and acting. Either way, I know I was meant to be a performer.
What has been your proudest moment in life so far?
Making it through to be top 32 for this show.
What is your definition of an AMERICAN IDOL?
Someone who has personality, a voice and a look that is universal. I think that they have to have a passion for music and singing most of all.
Why do you want to be an AMERICAN IDOL?
Because I know that I have the passion, the drive and the heart to carry on through the music business. I know that I have something special that needs to be heard.
Do you think the audition process was fair?
For the most part, yes. There were times where I didn't agree with certain comments to people, but I'm sure they had their reasons.
Who is your favorite judge and why?
I don't have one. I like Simon because of his honesty and I think he has a funny personality. Paula seems very sincere and concentrated on each performance, and I think that Randy is really tough on your performance and voice.
Who is your least favorite judge and why?
I don't have one.
What advice do you have for other hopefuls?
If I can make it, then so can you. I think that the idea is to have complete confidence with a positive attitude. Give it your all.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
That I am a very dedicated and loyal person that has a lot to share with people.
Who did you think was going to win last season?
I had an idea that Kelly would win.
If you could be a performer from any era, which would you choose and why?
I personally love '80s music and early '90s.
