American Idol’s Mandisa to Release Debut CD via Sparrow
Mandisa, a standout top ten finalist on the fifth season of American Idol, will release her debut album via EMI/Sparrow Records in May 2007. Produced by Shaun Shankel (Destiny's Child), Doubledutch (tobyMac), and others, the set will reflect Mandisa's personal struggles, joys, and her passionate faith.
A powerhouse vocalist, Mandisa quickly impressed American Idol superstar guest coach Barry Manilow in an early 2006 episode.
"I'm such a fan already," Manilow said. "Mandisa is one of those girls that has range; she can sing from bottom to top without any trouble. She's one of a kind."
Beyond her remarkable musical ability, Mandisa quickly became a positive role model for millions of women by gracefully responding to American Idol judge Simon Cowell's derogatory remarks about her weight on live television. Quite open now about her lifelong battle with food addiction, Mandisa will also publish a book regarding that issue this summer and is now a spokesmodel for Ashley Stewart Stores.
"I am a living witness that God can do immeasurably more than we could ever ask or imagine," says Mandisa. "Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be a recording artist, an author, and a model! I am so thankful for my experience on ‘Idol,' both the good and the hard times. Because of it, I am living my dream."
Since becoming a household name, Mandisa has had the opportunity to sing with musical legend Gladys Knight during a charitable event at the historic Apollo Theater in Harlem and also contributed vocals to tobyMac's upcoming album, PORTABLE SOUNDS.
Prior to her American Idol breakthrough, Mandisa was a worship leader at Living Proof Live conferences featuring Beth Moore and performed backup vocals for country artists including Shania Twain, and Faith Hill. To hear an exclusive interview with Mandisa about her background, the American Idol experience, and her forthcoming debut album, click here.
Also online: www.myspace.com/Mandisa