American Idol's Asia’h Epperson

I was a little surprised by my elimination, but not really. I think I deserve to be in the top 12, but I kind of had an idea I was going home. I actually called my mom and was like, "I think this is going to be my last time performing on this stage."

I’m going to miss everybody. We’ve all formed some friendships, so I’ll be rooting everybody on.

I loved all the judges, but I have to say my favorite would be Simon. Everyone says he’s kind of bitter, but I think he gives very constructive criticism...even though he could probably word it a little bit differently sometimes.

He said I was a "second rate Whitney Houston," and I will take that any day! Because Simon’s the most harsh, he makes you want to do the best that you can do.

I’m a strong believer in "everything happens for a reason," and I believe that God has a bigger and better plan for me. I auditioned just two days after my father passed, and I just think that he was with me and God was with me. My family and friends just pushed me through it. That’s what he wanted. I wasn’t going to not go forward with my dreams because of it.

For what's next, I really believe the sky’s the limit for me. I’m going to take every opportunity that I can. I’ve been in drama and things like that through middle school and high school, so maybe some acting, some commercials, maybe a little bit of modeling here and there, but definitely music, music, and music. Music is my heart and soul.

This whole thing has been an experience to remember for the rest of my life. It really helps you develop as an artist.