Melinda Doolittle: From Backup Singer to Center Stage
When Melinda Doolittle first appeared before the American Idol judges, she sounded like a lifelong backup singer. There was a good reason for this, however.
Melinda Doolittle has been a lifelong backup singer.
Despite showing little confidence during her audition in Memphis, though, Melinda showed off a great voice. She was unanimously passed through to Hollywood and Simon Cowell called her "one of the best singers we've had."
Such praise shouldn't come as a major surprise to anyone that knows Melinda. She was a music major in college and has taken vocal lessons ever since. In her American Idol profile, Doolittle lists Aretha Franklin and Gladys Knight as major influences.We can't argue with those choices; nor can we argue with a contestant that says her pre-singing rituals are just to "pray and warm up."
Based on performances so far, viewers around the country should be prepared for a lot more from Melinda - and Melinda should be prepared to remove the backup label from herself.
Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.
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June 10th, 2007 3:06 PM
Melinda is amazing. She should've won AI. But I'm still gonna buy her CD's.
June 8th, 2007 8:02 PM
Without a warning, this Beautiful Songbird has come out of the shadows to beguile and entertain us with her magical voice, good humour, modesty, intelligence, and warmth.
In a matter of a few days, we are comparing her with the Great Entertainers of all time. Already she belongs with Gladys, Tina, Sarah, Ella, Whitney, CeCe, Celine, Yolanda....... !!
June 6th, 2007 12:09 AM
I dont see why people say that melinda doesnt have the look? To me shhe is a very beautiful person. I daresay i even love her.
May 30th, 2007 8:17 PM
So sad that this incredible talent did not run away with the title that she so rightfully earned and deserved. Anyone who knows music, singing and voice knows that Melinda was without questiion the best singer of this season, and possibly ever to appear on the idol stage. T see her perform with Bebe and Cece Winans and sing as well if not better says more than enough. Melinda, your talent has not gone unrecognized. God has gifted you and great things are certain to come. You remain in my prayers. Be encouraged!
May 29th, 2007 6:19 PM
I truely believe that Melinda has a fantastic future ahead of her regardless of whether she won AI or not. I am looking forward to buying her music.
May 27th, 2007 12:14 PM
I don’t plan to watch American Idol any more because it has turn into a popularity contest and not a singing contest. I know Melinda was the best singer and she should have won.
May 26th, 2007 8:00 PM
Melinda did get robbed!!!
May 25th, 2007 6:06 PM
Melinda got robbed!
May 2nd, 2007 5:35 PM
Malinda is the best singer of American Idol, I have her to win. Go girl do your thing.
Nat
March 7th, 2007 3:51 PM
I think Melinda is the best singer of America Idol...and no doubt she win the title.