Ruder reflects on ‘Idol’ experience The self-written song that Turlock native Ashlyn Ruder sang before “American Idol” judges about her dad’s addiction and her forgiveness made an impact on listeners from around the country (Photo contributed). Even though Ashlyn Ruder’s time on “American Idol” is over, the Turlock native’s career is just getting started. After singing in church, to her family and even auditioning on another talent show, “The Voice,” in her youth, Ruder’s effort to become a recording artist took a major turn last year when her husband decided to sign her up for the show which has launched singers like Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood into superstardom.