Melinda Doolittle

Tone deaf as a child, Melinda’s choir teacher would plead with her not to sing, but just silently move her mouth. Undaunted, her love of singing drove her to enter a talent show in the seventh grade where she stunned the audience with her miraculously spot on vocals and beautiful voice. She never looked back!

Melinda graduated with a Bachelors in Music from Belmont University in Nashville, TN. She became a highly sought after background vocalist singing for musical icons including Michael McDonald, Aretha Franklin, BeBe and CeCe Winans, Aaron Neville and Jonny Lang.

Doolittle became a household name during season six of American Idol in 2007. She came in third in the voting, first with Simon Cowell calling her his “personal favorite” and quickly became the sweetheart of American Idol winning over the hearts of all with her stunning powerhouse vocals and her personal charm.

In 2009, Doolittle released her debut album Coming Back to You garnering rave reviews from critics, including The New York Times, which hailed her as one of the most “phenomenally gifted” singers in years. In 2013, she released her sophomore album You’re The Reason giving fans yet another opportunity to hear her impeccable vocals and revealing a bit more of her personality. People Magazine stating, “Her voice is a slinky purr then a mighty growl that will keep you coming back for more.” In the middle of her album releases, she penned her book Beyond Me: Finding Your Way to Life's Next Level. Melinda is currently the well-loved co-host of TV Line’s Reality Check.

Doolittle continues to thrill audiences everywhere from the Rock and Rock Hall of Fame to The White House, from the Copa Room to Carnegie Hall. In addition, she has been a featured guest with the Boston Pops, Charlotte Symphony and United States Air Force Orchestra to name a few, including a featured performer at the 2015 Boston Pops Fourth of July Spectacular. She is currently headlining her own soulful show It Must Be Love.

In thankfulness for all she has been given, Doolittle gives back to these amazing organizations: Vanderbilt Children's Hospital, Ronald McDonald House, The League, and Malaria No More (Presidential Delegate to Africa). Now, Melinda brings her soulful voice to your favorite Christmas songs along with originals such as "God Bless Us Everyone" which she co-wrote with renowned songwriter, Regie Hamm ("Time of My Life"). From sacred to Motown, get ready to laugh, cry and reminisce as you celebrate the most wonderful season of all with Melinda Doolittle.

There will be a post-show meet and greet for cabaret ticket holders.

Sponsored by Jackson National Life

Presented by Franklin Theatre Live