Was granted a sopt on the Texas All-State choir

After graduating from high school, moved to California tp pursue singing career

Worked for famous songwriter Gerry Goffin

After LA apartment burned down, moved back to Texas to regroup

Was named the first American Idol after beating out 10,000 contestants

Released her first single which sold nearly 250,000 copies in its first week

Released her debut album, "Thankful"; received grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance

Made feature debut in "From Justin to Kelly"

Became the spokeswoman for Candie's footwear

Won two Grammys for her sophomore album "Breakaway"