Lifted Magazine - Sabrina Sloan: In Her Own Words

As Idol hopefuls await the verdict from Idol host, Ryan Seacrest, viewers around the world wait in suspension for the worst or for relief. Not only is this a moment of horrific limbo for the viewers, but the contestants themselves. Clearly the American Idol vehicle has turned novice talent into world-wide trend-setters, role models, and brilliant singers, actors, and models. Contestants like Grammy award-winning Kelly Clarkson, Academy Award winner Jennifer Hudson, Carrie Underwood, Sanjaya Malakar and even William Hung have all become household names. Americans in particular are engrossed with Idol, specifically in regards to the outcome/final verdict of the show. Each week, millions of viewers vote for their favorite contestant. Although a democratic process, the outcome doesn’t always seem fair. As we watch our favored contestant say au revoir, we give a sigh of relief knowing we will see them again. American Idol has proven its ability to not only award the show’s ultimate winner, but also bless the lives of the contestants.

As I watched this season of Idol, I, like many others, picked out my top favorites. There was Sanjaya, Melinda, and of course Sabrina Sloan. In my opinion, and that of others, the Idol journey ended too soon. As judge Randy Jackson said, “America got this one wrong.” Beating millions of Idol contestants around the nation, Sabrina Sloan made her way into the top 16; quite an accomplishment for any artist.

I couldn’t help but wonder what Sabrina had been up to. I wanted to know more about her, her Idol journey, and her personal/professional goals. Instead of reading blogs/comments about Sabrina, I decided to go straight to the source.

What I encountered was a bright, sincere and wonderful singer/entertainer. I give you American Idol’s own, Sabrina Sloan.

Moreno: Thank you Sabrina for taking time out of your busy schedule to join me today. The last time we saw you was several weeks ago on American Idol. What have you been doing since then?

Sloan: Since the show, I’ve been doing various interviews, making appearances, meeting with record labels and execs, and recording new music.

Moreno: Tell me; at what age did you realize your passion for music/performance art?

Sloan: I started singing when I was three-years-old. I got involved with church and school choirs early. I also started playing the piano at the age of 7. At around 9, I would just sit at the piano for hours and play and sing and have my own private concert. I loved the theory of music and how the chords supported the melody and I began to appreciate every part of a song. I’d say I knew then that music was what I loved. I also knew it would always be a part of my life.

Moreno: You’ve had an appreciation for music for quite some time. In terms of entertainment, what is your passion? Singing? Broadway? Film?

Sloan: In terms of what entertains me, there is nothing that moves me like music. Whether it is on the radio, in a Broadway show, or supporting a fabulous scene in a movie, I am moved by the songs. My passion for music brings me a rush whether I’m singing live in concert, on the American Idol stage, or on Broadway.

Moreno: Many new artists have a difficult time adjusting to criticism. How do you deal with negativity? More specifically, how did you deal with the American Idol judges’ comments?

Sloan: First of all, I try to avoid it at all costs. Even when I’m tempted, I still stay away from the blogs and googling myself because there is bound to be something negative, whether it’s true or false. Thankfully, God prepared me for this competition by thickening my skin over the years. Having gone through so many auditions when I lived in NY, there were times when I was great and wasn’t. There were also times when I got the job, and more times when I didn’t. There is no way I could have done this show at 17- I was way too sensitive. You have to go in prepared to hear some harsh criticism. At the very best, it’s something you can seriously consider working on to improve yourself. At the worst, it’s off base and you can respectfully take the criticism and disagree and just continue to do what you do best. I just wanted to come out on that stage each week and show America why I belonged on the show.

Sloan: I feel very strongly that it was part of God’s plan for me to be on the show. In everything I do, I trust He knows why things happen the way they do. I was able to go on the stage feeling confident that I was supposed to be there and share my talent. My greatest encourager is my husband, and I give him credit for helping me finally audition, while keeping me focused through the whole process. Our mantra was “Nothing to Lose.” He helped me do the show without thinking of what people would think of me, how I might get voted off, etc. I had to hit the stage with that “no fear” attitude.

Moreno: When the American Idol judges appear to favor certain singers on the show, how did that make you or the other contestants feel?

Sloan: We were all very supportive of one another and there is no denying the strong talent of this year’s contestants. For the most part, we were thrilled when people received great comments because no one enjoyed hearing people put down! You’re always thinking it could be you getting torn apart out there! If anything, we would push ourselves harder to earn the judges’ favor the next week. But it’s not always about who they favor! When it comes down to it, they don’t get to vote!

Sloan: Not much I would change. Probably would have stuck to my “no ballads for the first three weeks” theory and done a more rhythmic song the second week where I could dance around and jump all over the stage!

Sloan: I learned to persevere with character, never compromising. And that I’m generally way too hard on myself. J

Moreno: After watching your performances on TV, did you agree with the judges’ comments?

Sloan: Sometimes I did, sometimes I didn’t. I’m probably more vocally critical of myself watching any of my performances back because I’m so picky.

Moreno: You mentioned earlier that you used to play the piano. Do you still play?

Sloan: I do, I still play the piano. Have a guitar, but only know a few chords- still need to take lessons!

Moreno: In terms of the duration/journey, American Idol viewers get the condensed version. How long is the actual process from the first audition to singing in the top 24?

Sloan: Depending on which city you audition in, it can be anywhere from 4-6 months I think. My process was about 5 months. It’s an investment!

Moreno: Wow, 5 months of waiting, that is an investment. When Ryan called your name, what was your first thought knowing your Idol journey ended?

Sloan: I was already emotional because it was down to me and my roommate and either way, it was going to be a bad moment. But at the second I learned I was leaving I have to say honestly, I was shocked, a little mad, and of course sad to see the journey end.

Moreno: Although the competitors act cordial and polite, it's still a competition. Was there a healthy competitive spirit backstage?

Sloan: There were a couple people who were competitive from the beginning but I think it really began to pick up competitively at the final 12 mark because people knew they could leave at any time.

Sloan: I always envisioned myself singing the entire song on the stage – how I would move, look, etc. and then a prayer- and shaking out the nerves by dancing to the band’s pre-show music.

Moreno: You state on your website that you didn't get to show the world the very best? Why is that?

Sloan: I just wasn’t on the show long enough and I didn’t get to sing my favorite songs, because they didn’t get cleared.

Moreno: In comparison with other rising artists, you have reached much success. Has that changed you?

Sloan: Not at all. If anything, I am more and more grateful and humbled by the blessings I have. I’ve got too many wonderful family members and friends around me who’ve supported me through my struggles and hard work. I’ve achieved all that I have with the help of their prayers and sacrifice. I could never be anything other than the Sabrina I’ve always been!

Sloan: It’s honestly anyone’s guess. It’s not just a singing competition. It’s about so many other things.

Sloan: I try to, but they have an incredibly busy schedule so usually we talk when I visit the show. I feel for them! I know they’re exhausted! J

Moreno: What is it like working with Sanjaya? Everyone seems to be Malakrazy! What's he like behind-the-scenes?

Sloan: He’s a 17 year old kid! He’s having a blast, and enjoying the show. He’s someone who I think genuinely appreciates everything he’s experiencing being on American Idol. I don’t know if he even knows how FAMOUS he is! You live in a bubble being on the show and I know his mom is good about protecting him from some of that publicity and nationwide obsession!

Moreno: Your website is full of comments from your fans. Any message to them?

Sloan: I can’t thank them enough for their support and love. It’s been so great knowing that people enjoyed me on the show and are looking forward to my next move. I won’t let you guys down!

Moreno: In terms of success and future entertainment gigs, what are you not willing to compromise on?

Sloan: I am glad I’ll have an opportunity to hopefully shape my career in the same way I think I represented myself on the show-with integrity and never compromising my values. I will not be someone who does something just so it sells if it goes against who I am-against my character. I’ll never put myself ahead of other people or treat people unfairly or unkindly to achieve any success.

Well said. Thank you Sabrina for joining me today, we wish you the best of luck, health, success, and happiness.

For more information on Sabrina Sloan please visit her on www.myspace.com or check back here for the latest news.