Mandisa

 Mandisa auditioned for the United States talent competition show American Idol in Chicago, in 2005. Mandisa referred to her self as "just Mandisa" and was therefore referred to as Mandisa. She stated that her influences in music run all over the spectrum from Whitney Houston to Def Leppard. Simon Cowell, an Idol judge made several comments about Mandisa’s weight after she had passed her audition. Cowell first questioned "Do we have a bigger stage this year?" Then, when Paula Abdul commented that Mandisa was the "Frenchie" growl to her voice, Cowell responded that a more appropriate comparison would be to France itself. The comments provoked anger of the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance (NAAFA). This was one of the reasons Mandisa was able to make her 2007 album True Beauty the title True Beauty. Mandisa told Cowell she'd injured herself and was crying in pain, and it was really difficult. I'm just trying to inform you that I have forgiven you. You don't have to apologize to forgiving anyone. I think that if Jesus could die to make sure that all my mistakes could be redeemed I'm sure I'm able to extend the same grace to you. "[] Cowell told Mandisa his heart was broken and that the apology was made immediately.