Jordin Sparks - The "I Who Have Nothing" American Idol Contestant Who Will Soon Have Everything

Jordin Sparks was about the only American Idol audition contestant who brought any spark to Seattle, with the exception of Blake Lewis. That was about the worst audition I have seen, with so many weirdoes and freaks I vowed never to go Seattle even if it were the last place on earth!

Jordin is also probably the best example this season of self improvement being out there for all to see. She came into the show as a bubbly 17 year old, but not really one of the favorites to progress to the top 6, or top 12 even. However, she has blossomed into a potential winner of 2007 American Idol. Not the likely winner, but with two more great performances she could make it to the final.

Of all the contestants, Jordin has the one who has developed the most during the contest. Round by round, she has taken herself to a new level, and eventually prompting Simon Cowell to say she may even win.

In the first of the final 6 shows, her rendition of You'll Never Walk Alone impressed all, maybe even the Liverpool Football Club supporters from England who would have been surprised to see an American teenage girl singing their anthem. Being of English origin myself, I thought it was the best I had heard anyone sing that song, including the original Gerry Marsden from the Liverpool sound era of the 1960's.

Like Melinda Doolittle and Lakisha Jones, Jordin Sparks is beautifully modest and down to earth, and also religious. All three will pass on their thanks to God first if they win the competition; I suspect even for progressing this far. It is usual for the top 6 in American Idol to pick up some sort of contract that will keep them in the business, either a recording contract or offers to perform live. Jordin will surely get both, even if she does not get into the final three.

Jordin's steady progression is a lesson in self improvement, being prepared to listen to advice, keeping focused, building her confidence, and taking risks in order to take her performances to a higher level each time. If Lakisha does not make it to the final, then I hope that Jordin is the one to join Melinda.