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.
February 18th, 2007 3:35 AM
I think Melinda is one of the best singers this year, and is a shoe in to make the top 12, and likely a top 6 performer. I'm not sure she has the "look" of the next American Idol but I do think she has the voice.
February 18th, 2007 11:34 PM
What a beautiful voice Melinda has. I hope we get to see and hear more of her as the show progresses. Elliott was the voice of last years show and it looks like Melinda is the special vocalist this year.
She's a natural and will be successful in the music business. . . . whether she wins this contest or not. Good luck to her.
Andy
February 25th, 2007 11:57 PM
she has been my favorite so far, when i first didn't know her name i started calling her Francine from that Arthur cartoon show.
February 28th, 2007 11:47 PM
in week two melinda moved to the front of the pack with a perfect performance. but hats off to stephanie edwards for looking like a million bucks and singing like a couple hundred thou.. jordan did well too, but melinda has my vote, i'm ready to cheer her all the way!
March 1st, 2007 9:47 AM
Melinda is by far the best. Superb performance tonight - Bravo!
March 1st, 2007 10:12 AM
Melinda, you brought tears to my eyes last evening...because you voice is amazing but your SPIRIT is much greater. I see wonderful things for you in your future. Congratualtions!
March 7th, 2007 3:51 PM
I think Melinda is the best singer of America Idol...and no doubt she win the title.
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
May 25th, 2007 6:06 PM
Melinda got robbed!
May 26th, 2007 8:00 PM
Melinda did get robbed!!!
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 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 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!
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.
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 10th, 2007 3:06 PM
Melinda is amazing. She should've won AI. But I'm still gonna buy her CD's.