Her father is former NFL cornerback Phillippi Sparks, who played eight seasons for the New York Giants and one season for the Dallas Cowboys before retiring in 2000.

Was a Torrid plus-size model.

Attended Sandra Day O'Connor High School in Glendale, Arizona, but only for her freshman year. She was home schooled after that.

At just 17, she is the youngest "American Idol: The Search for a Superstar" (2002) winner as of 5/23/07.

Her musical inspirations include Mariah Carey, Beyoncé Knowles, Christina Aguilera, Justin Timberlake and Hanson.