Look up Lemar's biography on his official website and the closest mention you will get to his Fame Academy origins is a reference to the "eight long years" he struggled to get a record deal.

The same is true on Kelly Clarkson's internet biography but she is quite happy to talk about her reality TV origins in person.

"It was where I got my start," she says. "I am proud of it. I have since chosen to surround myself with people who are smart and passionate about music and that is why I am successful.

"I know if I hadn't done it I would still be singing, I just wouldn't have got here this fast. Music is my passion."

Unlike some Pop Idol winners, who seem content to rely on the skills of professional songwriters, Clarkson has been writing since she was a kid.

"I am always writing poetry," she says. "I have always been that kid in their own world. Instead of talking to people I would write. A lot of these songs were written a long time ago."

Her third album, My December, has seen her take the reins even more.

"On the first album (2003's post-American Idol collection Thankful) I had no idea what I was doing so I would watch what was going on," she says.

"With the second record (2004's multi-million selling Breakaway) I got more involved in the production. I was there for everything that was laid down. I really enjoy the whole process.

"I've still got a lot to learn and I still have other people to help me out. If I did everything my own way it would all sound the same. I like more input.

"There's a lot on there if you listen to the record. Be Still is like folk or adult contemporary, Never Again is more pop rock and Hole is more rocking. All my records have been influenced by different styles."

Her own idol is former Eurythmics singer Annie Lennox.

"She's kind of queen of her thing," says Clarkson. "She's definitely got her own style. There is nobody like her."

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