Texas native Kelly Clarkson became a household name in September of 2002 when she took first prize in American Idol: The Search for a Superstar, a weekly talent/elimination contest that aired for several weeks on the Fox television network. Clarkson’s impressive ability to belt out rhythm-and-blues standards won over judges as well as millions of viewers, who phoned each week to cast their votes. Critics noted that despite the manufactured nature of the contest, Clarkson’s sincerity gave her the added boost over the equally talented unknowns she competed against. "I just try to be as real as I can be," the then-20-year-old said in a 2002 interview with Andrew Marton of the Houston Chronicle, "the kind of person who doesn’t really care if she is caught without makeup, not some ultra-professional musician who is only ’on’ when in front of the camera."

Born in 1982, Clarkson grew up in Burleson, a town outside of Fort Worth. Her mother, Jeanne, was an elementary-school teacher, and her stepfather worked as a contractor. A performer for her family and friends from an early age, Clarkson was a standout in her high school choir and regularly won the lead parts in school musicals. Her Burleson High music teacher told the Houston Chronicle’s Marton that even as a teen, "Kelly could do any and all musical styles," Philip Glenn said. "She could sing the classical literature but didn’t sound like a rhythm-and-blues singer trying to sing classical."

Already writing her own songs, Clarkson was determined to forego college and concentrate on a career in music. After graduating from Burleson High in 2000, she worked as a waitress in a comedy club and as a clerk at a pharmacy. In January of 2002 she moved to Los Angeles, California, with a friend. There, Clarkson’s talent caught the attention of legendary singer-songwriter Gerry Goffin, but Goffin became ill, and there was a fire at Clarkson’s apartment. Her roommate moved out and a dejected Clarkson decided to return to Texas as well. She found work passing out samples of the Red Bull energy drink, and had to be convinced by a friend to try out for American Idol. Known to be a late sleeper, Clarkson was worried enough about missing her chance that she stayed up all night before driving to Dallas for the open audition. The lack of sleep did not hamper her chances, however, and she made the first cut. After several more auditions, Clarkson and the other top 30 finalists were flown to Los Angeles and given a rented mansion of their own on the posh Mulholland Drive neighborhood of the stars. Once the show began airing in late June of 2002, contestants who did not make the cut had just a few hours to pack and leave.

Born in 1982, in TX; daughter of Jeanne Taylor (a school teacher); stepdaughter of Jimmy Taylor (a contractor).

Address: Record company--RCA Records, 6363 Sunset Blvd., #429, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Website: http://www.kellyclarksonweb.com