JORDIN SPARKS www.jordinsparks.com

Ashlyne Huff, Days Difference

• Artist Website

“Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever processed all that happened. I did a show that I was a huge fan of and won,” says 19-year old Jordin Sparks. “A couple years ago I was just a happy-go-lucky, quirky 17-year old. I still feel that way after experiencing so many amazing things. I’m learning more every day, but one thing I know for sure is that to sing for my job is the best thing in the world.”

With the July 21st release of her sophomore project Battlefield (also the title-track of her first single), Sparks is ready for follow-up musical combat showcasing a new look and a confident maturity. The album was mostly recorded in New York, Los Angeles and Nashville with marquis collaborators Dr. Luke, T-Pain, Stargate and Max Martin.

“We recorded several songs to make sure this is as good or better than the first album, because I have my own shoes to fill—and at size 11, they’re some mighty big shoes,” Jordin says with a laugh. “This album has a little more attitude, but not to the point it isn’t still the same girl people know. I think the most growth is in my voice, which has gained strength from touring and performing.” This time around Sparks also co-wrote four tracks on the album, including “911 Emergency,” “Was I The Only One,” “Faith” and “The Cure.” “‘911 Emergency’ is love with an attitude; it’s about a girl who’s fed up because her man is late all the time. I love the attitude in it.”

Sparks was driven by the arts from a young age—but no one could have imagined just how fast ambition would rev into realization by the time the singer reached her mid-teens. Born in Phoenix, her father was an NFL player for the New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys, giving Sparks a first-hand view of life in the public eye. Early on, she demonstrated determination to score a musical touchdown, winning a number of talent competitions, including Gospel Music Association’s GMA Academy, NBC/PAX TV’s “America's Most Talented Kids,” Colgate Country Showdown and the Drug Free Arizona Superstar Search. In her home state, she was named Best Young Artist for three years running.

But it was Sparks’ audition for season six of “American Idol” in summer 2006 when the then-16-year-old moved into the fast lane toward international acclaim. After winning KSAZ-TV’s “Arizona Idol” contest and ultimately became the youngest victor on the nation’s No. 1 TV show in May 2007, at age 17.