Rock On, LPN!
If you're an
American Idol fan, or even an occasional viewer, you've noticed Amanda Overmyer, dubbed the "rocker nurse."
But did you know that Overmyer is an LPN?
The 23-year-old native of Camden, IN, earned her practical nursing credentials 3 years ago and works as a home health respiratory nurse with Lincare, Kokomo, IN. However, Overmyer's career path may change now that she has wowed Idol judges Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell with her grounded personality and her bluesy Janis Joplin-like voice.
Overmyer is currently one of the final 16 contestants in the competition.
Kathy Dunbar of Delphi, IN, a friend of the Overmyer family, told the Carroll County (IN) Comet that Amanda should go far in her singing career.
"She has the whole package," Dunbar told the newspaper. "She has terrific talent, stage presence and a deep voice that draws you in. She also has an outstanding, supportive family behind her. Sometimes it's all in the timing, and this is her year."
Dunbar said the judges are calling Amanda the female version of former Idol rocker contestant Chris Daughtry. She added that Overmyer has been the lead singer in three different bands and that she likes to ride her Harley Davidson motorcycle when she's not performing on stage or working.
Overmyer lists Bob Seger and Janis Joplin as musical influences on the American Idol Web site (http://www.americanidol.com/).
As far as her nursing career, Overmyer reports one of her "proudest moments" was when she "received an award at work for my high numbers."