WSVN--From American Idol to the American dream, Vonzell and Nadia never knew how their lives would be changed forever.
Vonzell worked for the post office before gong to Hollywood.
Nadia was a bartender.
But today, their careers are reaching a high note.
On stage, they have a powerful presence, with voices that can wow even the harshest critics.
In 2005, America got its first glimpse of Florida's Nadia Turner and Vonzell Solomon.
They didn't win the American Idol title but, fast forward a year...
And it's clear being idol losers has made them big winners.
Vonzell Solomon: "Since American Idol, we went on tour over the summer for a couple of months."
Vonzell has walked away from her postal route. She now spends her time performing on stage.
Like this concert in front of a hometown crowd in Ft. Myers.
Vonzell Solomon: "It's just been a whirlwind and I'm having a great time."
She's also recording a new CD, expected out early this summer.
Vonzell Solomon: "I'm writing and arranging songs, I'm singing soulful music which is my favorite."
The rising star is also commanding respect as an actress, being featured in a movie called, "Still Green" and performing on Broadway.
Vonzell Solomon: "There is a play called The Return where I'm cast as the lead role."
Idol has also opened the door to acting for her good friend Nadia.
She's starring in an independent film.
Nadia Turner: "It's Called A Taste Of Us. It's a simple urban comedy, it's romantic, it's light, it's not heavy."
She's also recording a CD, also expected out this summer.
Nadia Turner: "The CD is going to be rock soul with a slash of funk in it."
And, as a Miami native, she's giving back to her community, helping raise money for cancer.
Nadia Turner: "I've lost numerous family to cancer so just to be a part of something to help others, I just feel blessed."
Blessed to have so many opportunities without losing a sense of reality.
Vonzell Solomon: "My favorite place to shop is Walmart."
Nadia Turner: "You hear that man going, I think that's Nadia and the woman saying no that's not Nadia that can't be Nadia Nadia wouldn't be at Chicken Kitchen."
American Idol may have given them a shot at stardom.
Vonzell Solomon: "I've always dreamed of being where I am today."
But, it's their own talent putting them on the road to success.
By the way, don't expect to see Nadia buying one of those multi-million dollar homes in Beverly Hills. She tells us no matter how successful she becomes South Florida will always be her home.
