Kelly Clarkson captured Americans' hearts and votes in 2002 to become the first-ever winner of "American Idol." She has gone on to do what few other "Idol" champions have accomplished - staying relevant and revered.
Clarkson will return to the Fox singing competition show on April 1 as a mentor. She will impart her "Idol" wisdom to the remaining season 14 hopefuls who will tackle her hit-filled songbook.
With top songs like "Since U Been Gone," "Miss Independent" and "Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)" to choose from, the contestants each found their own songs. Only two singers had to battle it out for their favorite Clarkson song.
"Yes, with Joey [Cook] and I," Jax reveals to Headlines & Global News. "Well it wasn't really a battle, but she really wanted the song. I was actually dying my roots and I was asked to go up to do a hat pick after someone said, 'You and Joey picked the same song.'"
Cook ultimately won the song, which she won't reveal until tonight, but tells HNGN, "Let's say it's going to be a great week."
Whether they got their song of choice, everyone will have the opportunity to pick Clarkson's brain. She possesses an invaluable knowledge of how to become an "American Idol" winner and how to navigate the music business once their time on the show comes to an end.
"I'm going to suck as much information in the time I have," Jax jokes. "I love her, I'll ask her anything in the world."
Her fellow contestant Rayvon Owen has the same idea.
"I really want to pick her brain also," Owen says. "What her thought process is in song selection and how did she open up from being an every day girl to the American Idol and the great artist that she is today."
Singer Nick Fradiani is "honored" to meet the Grammy-winning artist but has reservations about performing in front of her.
"She's not someone you can hang with vocally. Also doing one of her songs in front her makes it harder for sure," Fradiani says.
So, who will breakaway as the stand out? Will there be a beautiful disaster on stage?
Tune in to "American Idol" tonight at 8 p.m. on Fox to find out and to see a special performance by Clarkson.
