Alexis Grace

One glance at Alexis Grace and there is certainly no doubt that this young, talented, and vibrant girl would charm her way into your heart. A resident of Memphis, Alexis tried her luck and auditioned for American Idol in Louisville, Kentucky. She belted out Aretha Franklin’s “Dr. Feelgood” showing off her soulful vocals and wowing the four judges.

“Pretty good voice. Different from what I thought would come out of you,” Randy remarked. Alexis Grace’s voice is truly surprising for a petite girl. She impressed the judges with her strong voice, though lacking in stage presence. The Hollywood hopeful left the audition room with a golden ticket and a shining new hope to become the next American Idol.

Alexis may seem young and innocent, but this 20-year old girl has been through her share of life -changing experiences. She gave birth when she was 19 years old, and is presently engaged to be married to the father of her daughter. A musician at heart, Alexis has been singing since she was 7 years old. She was a part of the University of Memphis Concert Choir, establishing her roots as a singer.

During her audition, Kara and Paula gave her an advice that proved to be good in the end, “Don’t wear pink, just dirty yourself.” And so she did.

Alexis took to heart each word said by the judges. She got rid of her girl-next-door looks. She breezed through Hollywood week, making it to the top 36. Alexis successfully revitalized herself. She “dirtied” up her look, and was able to establish her stage presence when she performed “Never loved a Man” by Aretha Franklin. She was able to do what American Idol contestants aimed to do – she took a classic song and was able to make it her own.

The first batch of contestants who tried to make it in top 12 was a mix of good and bad. Judges and viewers are raving about Alexis Grace. She was a big hit on the February 17 show, where her performance proved her to be a cut above the rest. Judges Paula and Simon even mentioned that they see Season 1 American Idol, Kelly Clarkson, in Alexis. This certainly puts Alexis as a front runner towards becoming the next American Idol.

Alexis makes it to the Top 12 along with Michael Sarver from Texas, and Danny Gokey from Wisconsin. She tallied the top number of votes among female singers for this season. Her soulful performance earned her a comparison with a former Idol champ, and a spot in the top 12 finalists for American Idol. Certainly, a lot is still in store for her as the top vote-getter of this season. It was definitely no surprise that fans have been rooting for her, given her incredible voice coming from a pint-size body.

Alexis Grace may be a living testament that great gifts do come in small packages. With her mad vocals, charming face and stunning performances, America is sure to be hooked on her. But can she sustain her level of performance? We can only hope for this young mother to be consistent through out the competition?

“Could a regular stay at home Mom be the one?” Ryan Seacrest asked upon the Audition of Alexis Grace.

She just could be.