"You must be the change you wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Gandhi
When did you first start to sing?
I think I was about two.
Do you have any formal singing training?
Yes, I went to a performing arts high school and trained one year with the University of Memphis Concert Choir.
What other talents do you have?
I love to play guitar, write music and hip-hop dance.
If you don't make it on American Idol, what will you do?
Enjoy my time and memories on the show, but still keep trying at a music career and also have fun raising my daughter.
What are your personal goals in life?
To be successful at what I do whether it's being a mom or being a singer. But mostly live life to the fullest and love it.
What album would your friends be surprised you own?
Tom Jones. Anything by him, LOVE him.
Do you have any rituals or things you do before you perform?
Stretch, listen to music, pray.
What's your most embarrassing moment?
Probably when I cried on that show American Idol.
What's your proudest moment?
Every day when I look at my wonderful, beautiful baby girl.
If you couldn't sing, which talent would you most like to have?
I would love to be able to paint.
Who is your favorite judge and why?
I like them all equally, but I really admire and respect Kara as a fantastic songwriter/singer.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
Well, at first glance, people would think I'm a rocker girl, but really I have a kid, love my family, and I'm very compassionate. I'm a big softy!
Do you have any good luck charms?
I wouldn't say that they were good luck charms, but they motivate me so much and that is my family, my friends and God.
Do you think the audition process was fair?
Yes, but I will say that it was very tough.
What's been your favorite moment so far?
I know it's corny but every moment (except for the waiting) because it's an experience of a lifetime.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
The fact that I cannot spell well at all. I really need to do something about that.
How do you plan on differentiating yourself in the competition?
Just being myself and having confidence and bringing it!
Who are your musical influences?
Aretha, of course, Ann Peebles, Sam & Dave, Sam Cooke, Otis Redding, James Brown, Stevie Wonder, any old soul music.
If you have 24 hours to do anything you wanted, what would you do?
Go to Disney World or an awesome concert with my entire family.
Who is the person that you would most like to meet?
Dolly Parton.
Who's been your favorite Idol thus far?
I'm really loving David Cook right now.
If you could perform in any venue in the world, where would that be?
The ruins in Athens.
What was the first concert you attended?
Beck.
How has music moved you?
Music moves me to be a positive, loving, patient person. It inspires in every way.
What makes a great performer?
Confidence.
How do you combat stage fright?
I really do not have stage fright, but I do get really excited before I go on. It's an amazing feeling.
What's been the scariest part of the Idol experience so far?
The waiting around and pondering on everything you have invested in this competition.
What's been the most surprising part of the Idol experience so far?
How much you instantly bond with the other contestants.
If you could redo any moment in your life, what would it be and why?
The day I took the ACT, I did not study for it, and to this day, I'm really disappointed in myself.
If you could perform with any person or group, who would it be and why?
Ann Peebles because she's so BAD as in good and I've known her pretty much my whole life.
What song would you LOVE to sing on AI?
"Dr. Feelgood" by Aretha Franklin.
What one moment in past AI seasons will you always remember?
David Cook singing "Billie Jean." Need I say more?
How did you make the final decision to try out for AI?
I made it by talking to my Aunt and she happened to know people who live in Louisville, so we split the gas money and stayed with friends, and the rest is history. But the big decision was mostly my motivation from my little angel, Ryan.
