BUFFALO GROVE, Ill. (WLS) — A Chicago-area teenager will be featured on “American Idol” on ABC this Sunday night.
Nikki Rodrigues is from the northwest suburbs, and is talking about the thrill of her young lifetime: a chance to make music in the spotlight.
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Rodrigues said her mom would post videos of her on her Facebook.
“I guess I just felt ready, and I wanted my voice to be heard. I wanted to share my music with people,” Rodrigues said.
She grew up in Buffalo Grove, and started singing when she was just 8, with dad on guitar.
Rodrigues turns 18 this weekend: the same day she makes her primetime debut.
“Rodrigues expressed, “This is my moment; I am meant to be doing this now. It has given me a glimpse of the potential future if I persevere and continue on this path.”
An “Idol” producer found Rodrigues on TikTok; she’s been posting since she was 10.
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“I think that shows that, even if you don’t think anyone is watching, there’s always something good that comes out of it,” Rodrigues said.
She said being with the “Idol” judges “did not feel real.”
“The whole experience goes by quickly: you step in, perform your piece, receive feedback, and then it’s over, leaving you wondering what just happened,” Rodrigues shared. “I had never realized the extent of what happens behind the scenes, and the people involved were all so supportive, cheerful, and welcoming. It’s a dream I am eagerly awaiting to come true. When will it happen? When will it happen? I was trying to savor every single moment.”
Rodrigues’ parents are from South America, where she travels and performs every summer.
“I always try to book gigs in Brazil; I like singing songs in Portuguese and connecting with people there,” Rodrigues said.
Two canines are devoted fans.
“They’re the sweetest audience, and, if no one’s listening at home, they always are,” Rodrigues said.
She said she hopes to perform in Chicago someday.
“For me, music is not just about sharing beautiful tunes; it encapsulates all the emotions I experience,” Rodrigues affirmed. “My ultimate goal is for my music to evoke emotions in people; that has always been my aspiration.”
Rodrigues says she’s still figuring out where she wants to go to college, but will continue to follow the dream she’s had since childhood to be in show business.
You can see her on “American Idol” this Sunday night at 7 p.m.
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