Crystal BowersoxCrystal Bowersox has had quite a year. She placed second on the ninth season of 'American Idol,' tied the knot with musician Brian Walker and released her debut album, 'Father's Daughter.' But she's taking it all one day at a time, and she's out to prove she's not just another cookie-cutter 'Idol' winner. Penning eight (yes, eight!) tracks on her new album, Bowersox is the sort of talent who won't be forgotten after the new batch of 'Idol' hopefuls takes center stage in January.

With the new season of 'Idol' kicking off next month, Bowersox believes Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler won't be able to fill the big shoes left behind by Simon Cowell. "Simon should come back for a guest spot and judge again for at least one show, so the next round of contestants can have that Simon experience," she tells PopEater.

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