Melinda Doolittle

Age: 29
Hometown: Brentwood, TN
Audition City: Memphis

Melinda Doolittle, 29, is from Brentwood, TN. She says she started singing in the seventh grade. She went on to major in music in college and she still takes vocal lessons. Melinda is a Christian who prays before every performance. She was a backup singer before auditioning for American Idol.

From interview with AMERICAN IDOL:

Favorite male pop artists?

Stevie Wonder, Jonny Lang, Donny Hathaway

Favorite female pop artists?

Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight

When did you first start to sing?

7th Grade

Do you have any formal singing training?

Yes – college (Music Major) and vocal lessons ever since

What other talents do you have?

Um… I love to make people laugh.

If you don’t make it on AMERICAN IDOL, what will you do?

Keep traveling and singing

What are your personal goals in life?

To represent Christ well and do everything 150%

What album would your friends be surprised you own?

Tchaikovsky

Who is your AMERICAN IDOL?

My mommy!

Do you have any rituals or things you do each time before you perform?

Pray and warm up

Most embarrassing moments?

Crying EVERY time I advance another round

What has been your proudest moment in life so far?

Actually auditioning for AI

If you couldn’t sing, which talent would you most like to have?

Dancing or gymnastics

What is your definition of an AMERICAN IDOL?

Someone who, when given the platform, represents who they truly are and can convey it in a way that makes the audience want to know more

Who is your favorite judge and why?

Simon! He’s so real with ya – Even when I don’t like it, I love it!

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

[blank]

How has this changed your life?

I’m singing lead now. Who knew?!

Do you have any lucky charms?

My Bible.

Who are your heroes in life?

My mom, dad, my vocal coach (Janet Kenyon)

What’s been your toughest obstacle in life?

Fear

Do you think the audition process was fair?

I think it has, although I have seen some great people go home.

If you win, who will you thank first?

Jesus and my mommy.