VIP Picks: Camile Velasco

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Maui native Camile Velasco won over fans with her laid-back, soulful vibe while competing on the third season of "American Idol." The former IHOP waitress, who ended up in ninth place for that 2004 season, has since performed across the country and the Philippines, but has yet to truly make her mark as a singer. In March, the 23-year-old Island gal, nicknamed "Koy," will launch a new R&B album (also called "Koy") that she hopes will put her back into the musical spotlight.

Velasco now lives in Los Angeles, but her ties to the Islands remain strong. She makes her way home from time to time to visit her family, and of course, to stop by her favorite places to eat and chill.

What do you miss the most about Hawaii?

Of course my family… Duh. Second, the food, and of course the people. The people in Hawaii are just so different. The respect level is like no other place in the world, and I’m so thankful for growing up with that culture and respect.

Since you're away from the Islands right now, what local foods do you miss the most?

I would definitely have to say chili and rice, meat jun, definitely musubi… and basically every plate lunch in Hawaii known to man, hehe. I’m not a picky eater, so I can grub down on anything!

Which restaurants, bars or clubs do you have to hit when you're back in Hawaii?

Hmmm… I like to go to The W… It’s pretty nice there. Red Lion is pretty awesome too. They have a good happy hour. As far as restaurants, I would definitely have to say Rainbow Drive-Inn. Oooooh, so good. And of course Zippy’s, hehe.

Why these places?

I like the food at these places, and the atmosphere is really friendly — kinda like a mom and pop sorta feel. It feels like you’re eating at your auntie’s house or something. I’m not too big on really fancy bars, but of course I’m always down to go out and dress up. But I really like the more chill bars/clubs, so I can just kick back and relax.

What's your favorite ethnic food? Where do you go in Hawaii to get it?

Ooooh… I would definitely have to say Japanese. I like this spot called Aki-no-No. I love raw fish, and when I eat Japanese, I always come out feeling really good and healthy. Ooooh, miso soup!

What's your favorite drink (it doesn't have to be alcoholic) and where’s the best place in Honolulu to get it?

My favorite drink, by far, is water! I drink it all day, and I can’t live without it. When I'm thirsty, I want water. It feels good too.

Do you go clubbing when you're back on the Islands? If so, where at?

Sometimes I go clubbing. I usually go to The W, or to Dave and Busters, or Mai Tai’s.

Where would you go for a romantic dinner in Hawaii? Why?

Hmmm… I would probably say Duke’s. I get some pupu, some cocktails, and then take a walk on the beach. Oooh, that sounds romantic.

What was it like being on "American Idol?" Any best or worst moments?

Being on “American Idol” changed my life completely. Now, I'm doing music 100 percent. No other job… Doing gigs to support myself. I couldn’t ask for anything more in this life. I am so blessed.

What has changed for you since then?

Since “Idol,” I have been able to work on music, which is what I love most in this life. Since “Idol,” I have been able to work with so many talented musicians and producers and writers in this industry, and I am just so glad to even be a little part of it!

How often do you get back to Hawaii, and when do you next plan to return?

I wish I could get back to Hawaii more often, but I live in California now. But since the first single off the album just dropped, “Guava Jelly,” (It's a Bob Marley cover produced by his son, Stephen), hopefully I will be back in the Islands more. (Please request that song, LOL.)

Tell us a little bit about where your career is at right now. What's your new album all about?

Okay, so right now I am ready to release my debut album, which will be out in March 2009. (Other than the single), the rest of the album has more of an R&B feel, which is also a collaboration between other talented producers and writers and myself. Right now, I would say I can’t complain with my career and where it’s at and hopefully where it’s going. All I can do is work hard and keep on pushing.

Why did you decide to put reggae on your new album? How did that start, or who influenced you?

Actually, the rest of the album is more of the R&B-pop side. Only that single has the reggae sound. That single is really special to me 'cause it’s more like a dedication to Hawaii and [to the people] for all the support they have given me. It’s kinda like my gift to Hawaii.

Thanks for the love and support. Love life, and God bless!

See photos of Camile from her personal collection