full size Erika Van Pelt Hits the Stage on March 14, 2012
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Erika Van Pelt Hits the Stage on March 14, 2012

Although never quite a frontrunner in the competition, we expected Season 11’s Erika Van Pelt to last longer than she did. In a surprising turn of events, the 26-year-old singer/songwriter was sent packing after the Top 10 round — even after her Billy Joel cover received rave reviews from the judges. Did anyone see that coming?

For all you die-hard Erika fans, we’ve got her best performances for you below.

Credit: YouTube
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Watch Erika Van Pelt Sing Billy Joel’s “New York State of Mind” in American Idol’s Top 10 on March 21, 2012
Credit: YouTube
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Watch Erika Van Pelt Sing Lady Gaga’s “Edge of Glory” During American Idol 2012 Wild Card Finals on March 1
Credit: YouTube
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Watch Erika Van Pelt Perform “Don’t You Remember” in American Idol 2012 Final Judgment Part 1 on February 22
Credit: YouTube
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Watch Erika Van Pelt Sing Carole King’s “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow” in American Idol Season 11 Pittsburgh Auditions on January 19, 2012