Leslie Hunt

Leslie Hunt stood out as the most unconventional member among the Top 24 on the 2007 season of American Idol. While most hopefuls emulated Celine Dion, she presented herself as an indie rocker drawn to jazz and projecting the aura of a free-spirited hippie, a profile that set her apart yet failed to secure sufficient viewer support beyond the opening fortnight of semifinals.

Born in Chicago, IL, Hunt had performed since childhood. Earning her living as a dogwalker in her hometown, she continued pursuing music through her early twenties and joined forces on several projects with Jim Peterik, the songwriter celebrated for crafting chart successes for the Ides of March, .38 Special, and Survivor. After a serious health crisis—she lives with lupus and came close to death from a negative reaction to a yellow fever shot received during a trip to Brazil—she chose to try out for American Idol at 24. Her initial audition took place in Seattle, WA; she advanced through Hollywood week and ultimately reached the Top 24. During the first competitive round she delivered Aretha Franklin’s “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman.” The following week she interpreted Nina Simone’s “Feeling Good,” inserting scat vocals midway through and receiving only mild approval from Randy alongside sharp criticism from Simon. In her closing on-air moment, she scatted the line “Why did I decide to scat? America don't care for jazz” beneath the closing credits, securing a lasting place in Idol lore through sheer nerve and wit.