Erika Lynn Van Pelt (born December 12, 1985) is an American singer from South Kingstown, Rhode Island who finished in 10th place on season 11 of American Idol.
American Idol
She auditioned for the show in Pittsburgh and proved herself to be impressive, making it through to Hollywood. Despite not getting voted through by the public into the top 13, Van Pelt became a finalist thanks to judge Steven Tyler choosing her as his wild card choice on March 1, 2012 after wowing everyone with her rendition of the Lady Gaga hit "Edge of Glory". Before Idol, Van Pelt worked as a mobile DJ, working at parties and clubs.
Performances
Van Pelt, despite a brilliant rendition of the Billy Joel classic "New York State of Mind" and a makeover that involved cutting her hair and coloring it black, was eliminated on March 22, 2012, finishing in 10th place.
Post-Idol
| Season 11 |
| Finalists |
| Phillip Phillips · Jessica Sanchez · Joshua Ledet · Hollie Cavanagh · Skylar Laine · Elise Testone · Colton Dixon · DeAndre Brackensick · Heejun Han · Erika Van Pelt · Shannon Magrane · Jermaine Jones · Jeremy Rosado |
| Semifinalists |
| Reed Grimm · Jen Hirsh · Brielle Von Hugel · Adam Brock · Baylie Brown · Hallie Day · Creighton Fraker · Eben Franckewitz · Haley Johnsen · Chase Likens · Aaron Marcellus · Chelsea Sorrell |