We don't mean to brag, American Idol, but it's obvious you need Nashville to be successful. Just think about it. Gallatin's Kimberley Locke (season two) made a pop radio impression with her single ''Eight World Wonder'' (although it's her current war of words with Dustin Diamond on Celebrity Fit Club that's giving us something to remember). And while most of us who know her predicted from the jump that she would be unbeatable, it appears that Melinda Doolittle (season six) is more than a super local backup singer; she's a national treasure.

But, there's another gal who's also making her mark. Last season's Mandisa may not have beaten Taylor Hicks, but she's still a winner. Since leaving Idol, she has recorded a contemporary Christian album, written a book and toured the country talking about food addiction and self-image. Now, in the last days before this year's Idol finale, Mandisa shares what she thinks about the show, what she's learned from the experience and who she's not so quietly rooting for.

ATR: All history aside, what do you really think about American Idol?

M: I think it's the greatest show in the world! I try to make sure I don't live my life with any regrets and that's the reason why I auditioned. I have learned a lot about who I am and what I want as a result of the experience. Also, I am really proud of the people in my season. Nine out of the 10 finalists got record deals, and that's something to be proud of.

ATR: How has Idol changed over six seasons?

M: You can definitely tell the impact that American Idol has made of the music scene. But one thing that I like is that it seems to be getting away from the pressure to have a certain image years ago, people were commenting on Kelly Clarkson being the largest on the show, which was ridiculous because she was something like a (size) 4! It doesn't seem like America is as concerned with looks so much as how talented someone is, and that's great.

ATR: Why is it so important to you to defy cookie-cutter aesthetic stereotypes?

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