LOS ANGELES, May 25 (UPI) -- Even booted "American Idol" contestants can parlay their exposure into recording contracts if they want it badly enough, some former 'Idol' finalists said.
Kimberley Locke, second runner-up on last season's Fox TV talent show, had the first "Idol" single to debut at No. 1, the Washington Post reported Tuesday, proof that staying focused can result in success.
Locke signed with Curb Records immediately after leaving the series, which released her single "8th World Wonder."
Tamyra Gray, fourth place from season one; Christina Christian, sixth from season one; and Joshua Gracin, fourth from season two; also have new CDs coming out.
"American Idol," which regularly attracts 20 million viewers, crowns its third season winner Wednesday.
