An Aggie idol's rise to fame comes in at #9 on our Top 10 Stories of 2008 as voted on by KBTX.com visitors.

Construction Science major Jason Castro went from small town singer to the top four on the nation's most popular television show, American Idol.

Before last spring, Castro was just your average college student at Texas A&M. That was before Idol.

It didn't take long for the dread-locked crooner to became a favorite on Fox's hit reality show, especially among Aggies.

Fans fancied the 20-year-old from Rowlett for his smooth voice and laid back style, as he belted out songs like "September Morn," "Forever in Blue Jeans," and "Hallelujah."

Watch parties popped up around town as fellow students cheered on the singer. A local gift store even made shirts supporting the Aggie Idol.

It all came down to Rock and Roll night on the show, when Castro sang his heart out for a spot in the top three. A&M even began planning for a homecoming party on campus.

But after forgetting the words during "Mr. Tambourine Man," the judges told him to pack his bags.

Although Jason Castro didn't become the next American Idol, no one can deny Castro-mania in 2008.

For more on the complete list of the Top 10 Stories of 2008, click the link below.