Ayla Marie Brown was born on July 28, 1988, in Wrentham, Massachusetts. She is an American singer who was previously a standout basketball player at Noble and Greenough School. Brown gained wider recognition after appearing on the 5th season of American Idol in 2006, where she finished in the top 16. Her recording career began soon afterward with the release of her debut album, Forward. Subsequent releases include a self-titled album in 2012. Notable singles include “Know You Better” and “Pride of America.”