Melanie Amaro

The winner of the first season of The X Factor USA, Melanie Amaro drew comparisons to classic R&B divas such as Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston. Born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and raised by her grandparents in the British Virgin Islands along with her two brothers and sister, Amaro grew up singing at home as well as at church, weddings, and other occasions, but never entered any talent competitions until her mother encouraged her to try out for The X Factor. Amaro sang Beyoncé's "Listen" for judges Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul (both formerly of American Idol), solo artist ...