Kara DioGuardi

Kara DioGuardi is a Grammy and Emmy nominated songwriter, American Idol judge, producer, music publisher, author, record executive, and Visiting Scholar at Berklee College of Music. Kara’s songs have appeared on more than 160 million albums. She has won over 20 BMI pop awards, including Songwriter of the Year. She’s had over 150 songs on platinum albums, and over 50 charting singles. Her credits include Pink, Katy Perry, Celine Dion, Kelly Clarkson, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Miley Cyrus, Jason Derulo, Demi Lovato, Gwen Stefani, Carrie Underwood, Colbie Caillat, Enrique Iglesias, Rascal Flatts, Band Perry, Darius Rucker, Faith Hill, Santana, and many more.

Kara’s publishing company, Arthouse Entertainment, boasts hits from Bruno Mars, Carrie Underwood, Jon Bellion, Eminem, Jason Derulo, Flo Rida, and Rihanna.

Kara was a judge on seasons 8 and 9 of the hit FOX show, "American Idol", and head judge on Bravo’s, "Platinum Hit". In 2011, Kara made her Broadway stage debut as Roxie Hart, in the Tony Award-winning hit musical CHICAGO.

Kara has built recording studios at Phoenix House, a leading non-profit dedicated to helping those affected by addiction. Kara cofounded Inspired Nation, a non-profit that creates youth talent shows with all benefits going to youth-oriented charities. She is an advocate for creating awareness and legislative reform around child sexual abuse.