Kelly Clarkson

Kelly Clarkson Who would have guessed that small town sweetheart Kelly Clarkson would eventually grow up and become one of America's brightest stars?Certainly, not Kelly!As a child growing up in Burleson, Texas, singing was far from her choice career. Kelly Clarkson wanted to become a marine biologist.

Lucky for the rest of the world, she quickly changed her mind upon seeing Jaws, because it was only a matter of time before her true talent and passion were unveiled for the rest of the world to see.

Kelly's innate singing ability was first discovered in 7th grade after her junior high choral director heard her singing in the school hallway and encouraged her to sign up for the school choir. Up until that point, Kelly was considering joining the band!

Kelly Clarkson immersed herself in choral activities throughout high school, starring in musicals Brigadoon, performing overseas, and earning top honors as a member of the Texas All-State Choir. Upon graduation, Kelly solidified her committment to music, working numerous jobs to finance her demo CD and market herself to record labels. Frustrated with the lack of results and unopened mail, she made her way to Los Angeles along with a friend, hoping for the best.

It may have took Kelly a while to realize that she could handle it, but the American public showed no hesitation in casting their votes and naming Kelly Clarkson their American Idol on September 4, 2002.Moments later, she took to the stage for an emotional performance of her first single, A Moment Like This, capping off the competition and reminding millions of viewers why they tuned into the show week after week--to watch people's dreams come true: Oh I can't believe it's happening to me/Some people wait a lifetime for a moment like this.

On October 5th, 2002, A Moment Like This shot straight from No. 52 to No. 1 on the Billboard charts, eclipsing the 38-year record of biggest leap to No. 1, previously held by the Beatles Can't Buy Me Love, which went from No. 27 to No. 1 in 1964. Her full-length solo debut is slated for March 4, 2003, and already, Kelly is attracting famed songwriters and producers like Diane Warren and the team of Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis (Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey). Kelly also has a desire to showcase her songwriting skills on her solo album as well.A No. 1 song, legions of fans, and an inner-drive that is unparalleled, Kelly Clarkson is on her way.