Jordin Sparks, 17, is from Glendale, Arizona. She auditioned for American Idol in Seattle. Like many of the American Idol finalists, Jordin says she started singing as a baby -- at 18 months old.
She is proud of being named "The Overall Spotlight Winner" for the GMA Academy in 2004. She has had no formal music training and looks up to singer Christina Aguilera.
Jordin Sparks is the daughter of former pro-football player Phillipi Sparks. She calls herself a football and basketball freak.