American Idol: Hair Matters

Introduction

If you are a fan of American Idol, you may have already noticed that great vocal chops are not the only thing needed to win the highly sought after title.

(Image of Kimberly Locke - American Idol - Fox - All rights reserved).

One of the judges, Randy Jackson, wrote a book about what it takes to become a superstar in the music biz. In his book, "What's Up Dawg?" Randy states that the three most important qualities an up and coming singer can posses is vocal ability, star persona and a unique sense of style.

Great hair, or lack of it, can definitely be linked to those that make it to the top of Idol and those that get the boot along the way.

American Idol celebrity hairdresser, Dean Baneowetz, works closely with the contestants once they make it to the final twelve. At that critical point in the contest, Baneowetz helps the budding singers with custom strand makeovers that provide polish and pizazz. Baneowetz has commented to the media that "a good hairstyle can change the direction of the contest".

I decided to go back and look at some of the Idol finalists to see if I could trace a major hair makeover that may have had some significance.

(Image of Kimberly Locke - American Idol - Fox - All rights reserved - Ruben Studdard & Clay Aiken - Season Two 2005 FOX Cr: Ray Mickshaw/FOX)

One major transformation was Kimberly Locke who had super kinky, curly hair. After she made it into the finals Baneowetz straightened her tresses. Banowetz recalled. "It was a huge transition for Kimberly and she came up to me afterwards and said, 'I look good and I feel so sexy about myself,' and the confidence level is hugely important."

Banowetz believes that changing Kimberly from her kinky curls to straight locks made a big difference in her ability to hang on into the final three with Ruben.

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