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Melinda Doolittle gracefully stepped down from American Idol's Top 3 tier. Here are a few reasons why we'll miss her so much--and let you know how to contact Melinda Doolittle with fan mail.

Melinda Doolittle made a strong effort to crack the American Idol Final 2. The judges raved about Melinda's flawless performances of 'I Believe In You and Me,' 'Nutbox City Limits,' and her favorite 'I'm A Woman.'

Will Melinda Doolittle win American Idol? Her hometown fans are asking the question for tonight's Top Four episode. Melinda sang Bee Gees hits 'Love You Inside and Out' and 'How Can You Mend A Broken Heart?' to mixed reviews.

Top Christian artist Michael W. Smith once toured with American Idol finalist Jordin Sparks. Smith's blog explains more about his experience with the smiling young Sparks.

Melinda Doolittle goes rock during American Idol's Top 6 episode. She giggles with guest Jon Bon Jovi, then gives a Tina Turner-esque performance of 'Have A Nice Day.'

Melinda Doolittle shone with an inner light during American Idol Gives Back, a fundraising episode for America's neediest places. She made Faith Hill's 'There Will Be A Day' completely her own. Christian music is clearly Melinda Doolittle's element.

Brentwood's Melinda Doolittle showed off her Music City roots in American Idol's Country Night. She owned the stage with a hipper, younger look and a sassy performance of 'Trouble Is A Woman.'

Brentwood's Melinda Doolittle experiences her first brush with criticism on American Idol's Top 8 episode. The Latin-themed night was hosted by Jennifer Lopez, who had previously sung Doolittle's choice of music, Sway. When J-Lo advised her to show more sex appeal, Doolittle confessed she had little.

Melinda Doolittle brings down the house in American Idol's Top 9 episode. After hearing Doolittle's rendition of 'I Got Rhythm,' guest star Tony Bennett called her the best singer all day.

photo by insidethemagic on Flickr

Info about New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning's engagement to Abby McGrew, a graduate of Brentwood Academy near Nashville TN. Plus photos!

Melinda Doolittle sings Donna Summers' hit 'Heaven Only Knows' on American Idol's Gwen Stefani show. This energetic performance will whittle the contestants down to the final Top 10. The biggest criticism from the judges? What Melinda wore.

Brentwood's Melinda Doolittle gives a stunning finale to American Idol's Top Ten episode. Her youthful new 'do and soulful rendition of Oliver! hit 'As Long As He Needs Me' garnered raves from the audience--and the judges.