American Idol is not the most important thing in life for Lakisha Jones.

That would be her four-year old daughter, Brionne.

Nevertheless, this singer is close to leaving her bank job forever, now that she's been approved as one of the final 24 Idol hopefuls. And she resides atop many viewers' lists of early favorites.

It's a goal Jones has had for awhile. After all, the pop star Lakisha lists as her favorite? Kelly Clarkson.

Seen her wiping away tears after the judges relayed such good news last night, Lakisha could one day be following in Clarkson's winning footsteps. Millions will be watching to see if she does.

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.