Nashville, Tenn. May 22, 2009… It’s a good week to be Mandisa! After being featured on Entertainment Tonight on Wed., Mandisa landed a spot in US Weekly’s “Hot Bodies” issue out on newsstands now. The Freedom singer also attended the highly anticipated season eight finale of American Idol held on Wed. May 20 at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles, CA.
Mandisa spoke with US Weekly while in New York in detail about her 85 pound weight loss. Entertainment Tonight also came to capture the Idol alum’s photo shoot and to find out more about her recent weight loss. For more information on US Weekly, visit www.usmagazine.com.
On Wed. May 20, Mandisa appeared on the American Idol finale red carpet speaking with E! News, TV Guide, Fox News, AmericanIdol.com and more. The season five finalist also appeared on Idol Tonight Tues. May 19. Mandisa also twittered about her Idol finale experience, to view her twitter page go to http://twitter.com/mandisaofficial.
Mandisa will also be appearing on the Trinity Broadcasting Network tomorrow evening, Sat. May 23 at 6pm CST speaking about her experience on the Women of Faith tour. For more information on TBN, visit http://www.tbn.org/.
MANDISA is speaking to women worldwide about the freedom she has experienced through her faith and incredible 80+lb weight loss in her sophomore album release, FREEDOM, which bowed Mar. 24. Mandisa has also been seen on Today, CNN online, E! News Live and more in promotion for her latest album.
FREEDOM is the follow-up to Mandisa’s 2007 debut, TRUE BEAUTY, an album that created history by becoming the highest chart entry and the best-selling debut artist in the life of her label, Sparrow Records. It also became the only female debut to hit No. 1 in the 27-year history of Billboard’s Christian Retail Chart. TRUE BEAUTY received a GRAMMY® nomination for “Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album, and her debut single “Only the World,” hit #1 on Billboard’s Hot Single Sales chart.
Nashville, Tenn. May, 20, 2009… Mandisa and her 80+ pound weight loss will be featured on tonight’s edition of Entertainment Tonight. The popular show hosted by Mary Hart and Mark Steines joined Mandisa at her photo shoot for US Weekly and their “Hot Bodies” issue due out on newsstands this Fri., May 22. To find out when Entertainment Tonight airs in your area, visit www.etonline.com.
Mandisa, who released her most recent project Freedom in late March, will also be attending tonight’s season eight American Idol finale. The season 5 alum will also be hitting the red carpet before the show.
MANDISA is speaking to women worldwide about the freedom she has experienced through her faith and incredible 80+lb weight loss in her sophomore album release, FREEDOM, which bowed Mar. 24.
FREEDOM is the follow-up to Mandisa’s 2007 debut, TRUE BEAUTY, an album that created history by becoming the highest chart entry and the best-selling debut artist in the life of her label, Sparrow Records. It also became the only female debut to hit No. 1 in the 27-year history of Billboard’s Christian Retail Chart. TRUE BEAUTY received a GRAMMY® nomination for “Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album, and her debut single “Only the World,” hit #1 on Billboard’s Hot Single Sales chart.
On the heels of Mandisa’s second studio album Freedom, the Sparrow recording artist will make appearances on Better TV, Fox’s Strategy Room and Fox News Edge today, Mon. Apr. 13.
The syndicated Better TV series will sit down with Mandisa on Mon. morning. For more information on Better TV, visit http://www.better.tv.
Mandisa will join Fox News as well with an appearance on Fox’s “The Strategy Room” for a live online chat about her new record Freedom, drastic weight loss and more. To watch Fox’s “The Strategy Room,” go to http://www.foxnews.com/strategyroom/.
While in New York City, the American Idol alum will speak to local Fox affiliates across the country as well though Fox News Edge.
After what has already been an impressive loss of 80 pounds, Mandisa is continuing towards a healthy lifestyle and is allowing her fans to join her on this journey. To watch videos chronicling Mandisa’s efforts, go to www.mandisaofficial.com.
The first single off of Freedom is continuing to do well at radio. “My Deliverer” is now top 10 on the AC charts.
MANDISA is speaking to women worldwide about the freedom she has experienced through her faith and incredible 75+lb weight loss in her sophomore album release, FREEDOM, which bowed Mar. 24.
FREEDOM is the follow-up to Mandisa’s 2007 debut, TRUE BEAUTY, an album that created history by becoming the highest chart entry and the best-selling debut artist in the life of her label, Sparrow Records. It also became the only female debut to hit No. 1 in the 27-year history of Billboard’s Christian Retail Chart. TRUE BEAUTY received a GRAMMY® nomination for “Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album, and her debut single “Only the World,” hit #1 on Billboard’s Hot Single Sales chart.
Nashville, Tenn. Apr. 8, 2009 Mandisa will appear alongside Kathie Lee and Hoda on tomorrow¹s edition of Today on NBC.
The Sparrow recording artist‹and member of the 2009 Women of Faith team‹will take part in an overall discussion of helping women build positive self-esteem and body image. The panel will also feature a self-esteem/confidence expert and a clinical psychologist. Mandisa¹s Mar. 24 album release of Freedom coincides with this topic. The American Idol alum also recently dropped over 80 pounds.
Today with Kathie Lee and Hoda airs on NBC at 10am EST Mon. through Fri. For more information, visit http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/29054368/.
For more information on Mandisa and her appearances at Women of Faith¹s 2009 A Grand New Day events, please visit www.womenoffaith.com or www.mandisaofficial.com.
MANDISA is speaking to women worldwide about the freedom she has experienced through her faith and incredible 75+lb weight loss in her sophomore album release, FREEDOM, which bowed Mar. 24.
FREEDOM is the follow-up to Mandisa¹s 2007 debut, TRUE BEAUTY, an album that created history by becoming the highest chart entry and the best-selling debut artist in the life of her label, Sparrow Records. It also became the only female debut to hit No. 1 in the 27-year history of Billboard¹s Christian Retail Chart. TRUE BEAUTY received a GRAMMY® nomination for ³Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album, and her debut single ³Only the World,² hit #1 on Billboard¹s Hot Single Sales chart.
Nashville, Tenn, Apr. 2, 2009… The week after her sophomore release Freedom debuted, Mandisa mania is still raging with an upcoming piece on “E! News Live” and a three out of four star “People” Magazine review. The American Idol alum also attended Tuesday’s American Idol show and weighed in with “Idol Extra” and “Idol Tonight” on her thoughts about the season.
“E! News Live” will feature a workout segment with a now 80 pounds slimmer Mandisa and her trainer on tonight’s episode. The popular entertainment show with Ryan Seacrest and Guiliana Rancic airs on the E! Network weeknights at 7pm EST and 11:30EST, and will repeat tomorrow at 3:30amEST and 12pmEST.
“People” Magazine also has shown to be a fan of Mandisa’s newest CD Freedom by saying...
3 OUT OF 4 STARS
“This American Idol also-ran from season 5 has carved out a nice niche for herself as a contemporary gospel artist. She follows up her Grammy-nominated debut with another disc that makes you rethink that ninth-place finish.”
After attending Tuesday’s American Idol show, Mandisa spoke with friend and fellow season 5 finalist Ace Young as a part of “Idol Extra.” The singer talked about her new record, Women of Faith tour as well as her thoughts on the evening’s performances. For more information on airing times visit, http://www.foxreality.com/aie/. The latest episode will air tonight at 7pm and 10pm EST on Fox Reality Channel.
Airing last night, “Idol Tonight” also caught up with Mandisa while she was in Los Angeles. Hosts Justin Guarini and Kimberly Caldwell spoke with Mandisa about her latest record and asked for her feedback on finalists such as Anoop, Kris Allen and more. To see when the show will air on the TV Guide Network near you, visit http://www.tvguide.com/tvshows/idol-tonight/199034.
Freedom landed in the No. 4 spot on Billboard’s Christian Albums. In addition, the first single off of Freedom “My Deliverer” is continuing to climb the AC Indicator’s Top 15, currently at the no. 12 spot.
MANDISA is speaking to women worldwide about the freedom she has experienced through her faith and incredible 75+lb weight loss in her sophomore release, FREEDOM, bowing Mar. 24.
FREEDOM is the follow-up to Mandisa’s 2007 debut, TRUE BEAUTY, an album that created history by becoming the highest chart entry and the best-selling debut artist in the life of her label, Sparrow Records. It also became the only female debut to hit No. 1 in the 27-year history of Billboard’s Christian Retail Chart, received a GRAMMY® nomination for “Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album, and her debut single “Only the World,” hit #1 on Billboard’s Hot Single Sales chart.
With early attention from major outlets such as People, Extra among others, Mandisa Mania is continuing with critical acclaim from CNN Online, Cleveland Leader and more. The former America Idol finalist Entertainment Weekly called a “vocal powerhouse,” released her anticipated sophomore project Freedom Mar. 24.
“The new album is full of catchy Christian pop tunes such as ‘My Deliverer,’ ‘Dance Dance, Dance’ and ‘Freedom Song,’ and power ballads such as ‘Not Guilty.’” CNN.com
“Mandisa’s sophomore effort, Freedom gave us everything and more from the pretty to the sad to immaculate and hopefully a third disc is on its way soon.” Cleveland Leader
“Mandisa’s voice never fails…” Christianity Today
“Freedom is another great offering from this powerful vocalist who continues to inspire and encourage people of all ages and all walks of life.” Gospel Music Channel
“Freedom showcases Mandisa’s powerhouse vocals while still maintaining a style that is all her own.” Gospel Music Update
“Mandisa has proven herself to be more than just another "former American Idol contender"; she is a talented lady with a promising future of great music ahead.” Jesus Freak Hideout
“No denying Mandisa’s unique ministry platform…” CCM
*** Amazon.com is exclusively premiering Mandisa’s brand new music video for “He Is With You” Mar. 24-26. To view Mandisa’s video on Amazon.com, visit http://www.tinyurl.com/mandisanew. Amazon is also offering free listening parties.
*** Mandisa mania kicked-off with features running on CNN.com, People Online and Extra! buzzing about her new record as well as her 75+ pound weight loss.
For more information on Mandisa, FREEDOM and more, go to http://www.mandisaofficial.com
CNN.com caught up with American Idol Alum Mandisa to see what she is up to these days. Click
HERE to read the full article. Mandisa was also featured in
People magazine that hit news stands last Friday. Be sure to pick up a copy and read about Mandisa's incredible weight loss! Freedom hits stores March 24th!
Pre-buy the album at Amazon now.
NASHVILLE, TN….2/12/09…..GRAMMY® nominee and American Idol finalist MANDISA is speaking truth and encouragement to women worldwide about the freedom she has experienced through her faith and incredible 70+lb weight loss in her upcoming sophomore release, FREEDOM, bowing on March 24th.
FREEDOM is the follow-up to Mandisa’s 2007 debut, TRUE BEAUTY, an album that created history by becoming the highest chart entry and the best-selling debut artist in the life of her label, Sparrow Records. It also became the only female debut to hit No. 1 in the 27-year history of Billboard’s Christian Retail Chart, received a GRAMMY® nomination for “Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album, and her debut single “Only the World,” hit #1 on Billboard’s Hot Single Sales chart.
Mandisa’s musical journey began when she became a top 9 finalist on “American Idol’s” fifth season. It was during the first few months of 2006 that she became a household name and garnered a multitude of fans with her powerful voice and contagious smile.
Since American Idol, and her debut CD and book, “Idol Eyes: My Perspective on Faith, Fat and Fame,” Mandisa has realized how much that experience and everything she learned from it has given her a platform to reach out to others through her music. It became a major part of the songs she recorded for True Beauty, but she has moved into an even deeper understanding of who she is now and what she wants to communicate through the new collection of songs she recorded for FREEDOM.
“These songs are true to me; they’re songs I identify with,” says Mandisa about FREEDOM. “I can’t wait to start singing them because they reflect my story – the things I’ve been through, and the things I’m still going through now. Each one means something special to me.”
As much as American Idol was certainly the launch of a promising new musical career, it also represented another turning point. When “Idol” judge Simon Cowell made negative comments about her weight on national television, it was a shock to Mandisa and to many of the millions who were cheering her on. She admits now, as she has discussed at length in her book, that those hurtful words cut deeply, causing a lot of immediate pain and embarrassment.
“My struggle with weight has been the biggest struggle of my life and it began as a very young girl,” she says. “One day at a time, on a very difficult journey, I am being set free from what I call is a food addiction. As I speak, I have lost 70 pounds. But, I have to say, it is about more than eating, and more than exercising. Of course those things have to be a part of this, but it is truly what my first single says: it is because my Deliverer has set me free from all that has held me captive and I just believe that this is, again, it’s going to be a lifelong journey for me but as long as one day at a time I am getting closer and closer to being set free that’s all that I can ask for and I believe that that’s happening.”
The jubilant first single, “My Deliverer,” really is perfect example of the empowering message that builds the foundation of the entire album. With its buoyant pop/funk track backing her up, Mandisa sings with a carefree confidence about feeling more alive than ever, and it’s already clear the song is resonating with listeners, already NO. 22 on R&R’s AC Indicator chart.
Producers Brown Bannister and Christopher Stevens expertly guided these songs between styles while staying true to Mandisa’s own personality and character. They were able to extract a range of some of the most powerful and poignant performances from this artist to date, including “He is With You,” which re-teamed her with writer Ronnie Freeman, and is one of Mandisa’s personal favorites on the album because she believes it hits every single situation anyone could imagine.
Tonight, Thursday, February 12th, Mandisa will be a part of what is being called the largest gathering of American Idol Winners and finalists to date as they join together to celebrate the opening of Walt Disney World’s newest attraction, The American Idol Experience. Among those confirmed to attend are Ryan Seacrest, Fantasia, Ruben Studdard, Taylor Hicks, Jordin Sparks, Carrie Underwood, David Cook, Justin Guarini, David Archuleta, Brooke White, Melinda Doolittle, Ace Young, Bucky Covington, Chris Sligh, Josh Gracin, Diana DeGarmo and many more. The evening will culminate with a concert featuring Underwood and Cook.
Designed to reflect the best and brightest elements of the TV show, Disney Imagineers and American Idol have partnered to re-create the American Idol television stage at Walt Disney World in Florida. The show at Walt Disney World is an exciting and fun-filled experience where guests who have completed an audition process perform live-on-stage and the guests in the audience vote, resulting in one guest EVERY DAY who wins a "Dream Ticket" - which is redeemable to bypass the lines at any American Idol audition and proceed directly to the producers. It is quite an experience! For more information on this attraction, go to http://www.wdwnews.com <http://www.wdwnews.com> .
In addition to the Disney experience, Mandisa will be a part of Disney’s annual Dreamers Academy this Friday, February 13th, where she will perform for the 100 Dreamers selected by radio host Steve Harvey and his panel of judges . The dreamers were nominated and endorsed by friends, parents, guardians, church members, people who can recognize extra special qualities and the power to dream when they see it.
Also throughout this year, Mandisa will join the very popular Women of Faith events across the country, encouraging and entertaining women of all ages.
For more information on Mandisa, FREEDOM and more, go to http://www.mandisaofficial.com
See an image of Mandisa before her weight loss:
And a current image - taken just last week:
American Idol finalist and EMI CMG recording artist MANDISA will talk with Dr. Robin Smith tomorrow on Dr. Robin’s show that airs on the Oprah & Friends Channel on XM Satellite Radio. The show airs 3 times each day at 9am, 4pm and 9pm EST, on Channel 156. Dr. Robin Smith is a licensed psychologist and regular contributor to The Oprah Winfrey Show. In addition to her private practice, Dr. Robin teaches as an adjunct professor at Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary. She is the author of Inspirational Vitamins, A Guide to Personal Empowerment and the national best-seller Lies at the Altar: The Truth About Great Marriages.
**With a busy fall already in the works, Mandisa will release “It’s Christmas,” her first, full-length Christmas project in October. The project features such Christmas classics as “It’s Christmas,” “Joy to the World,” and “Little Drummer Boy,” along with special duets with Michael W. Smith and Matthew West.
** In addition, Mandisa is currently in the studio beginning work on “Freedom,” the follow –up to her GRAMMY and Dove-nominated CD, “True Beauty.” The project is being produced by Brown Bannister and Chris Stevens, and is scheduled to release in March 2009.
