Rickey Smith, the always smiling Season 2 finalist, was known on the show for his personality, humor (who could forget Hercules, Hercules, Hercules!?), and smooth R&B voice. Although he was compared to the singers like Brian McKnight and R. Kelly, Rickey actually has formal training in opera, and hoped to go down the opera route after American Idol!

After making it to eighth place on the show, Rickey was able to go on tour with the Season 2 finalists, and then he settled in Los Angeles for a few years to pursue his music career. More recently, Rickey moved back to Oklahoma to finish school, but he still sings and entertains often. He even appeared in Season 9 semi-finalist Todrick Halls Oz, The Musical with Season 4 Idol finalists Mikalah Gordon, Vonzell Solomon, and Scott Savol.

Happy Birthday, Rickey!

Take a walk down memory lane with the Season 2 photo gallery.