This is the ninth in a series of mini-profiles of "American Idol" Top 36 contestants.

Kristen McNamara

Age: 22 | Hometown: Napa, Calif. | Job: "Karaoke hostess"

She's another veteran of the reality-TV circuit, having appeared on "Nashville Star" in 2006. With the release of an indie CD called "Restless," she's also apparently paid her dues in the music biz. She had to win a "sing-off" to advance to the Top 36.

Official introduction video | Youtube clips

Nick Mitchell

Age: 27 | Hometown: Brookfield, Conn. | Job: Entertainer

Who will show up for the round of 36: Nick or his alter ego "Norman Gentle"? Is he more of a comedian than a singer? Voters will have to decide. No matter how hard he tries, Nick can't help infusing his singing with cabaret-show stylings. Little-known fact: He holds a couple of high-school swimming records and won a state title in the breaststroke. I kid you not! Said Randy Jackson: "You actually can sing. You got some skills in there, dog."

Official introduction video | Youtube clips

Jasmine Murray

Age: 17 | Hometown: Starkville, Miss. | Job: Student

Simon Cowell described the model-esque Jasmine as "cute" and "commercial." She has been singing since she was 3 years old. She was the only one of her four-person group in the Hollywood group round not to get cut.

Official introduction video | Youtube clips

(Photo credits: all FOX)