The first and only time I met Crystal Bowersox, the gifted former "American Idol" runner-up (many thought she was robbed during season 9) and Chicago resident who'll soon appear at Space in Evanston and the Arcada Theatre in St. Charles, we were at a small bar in Wrigleyville. Her very talented husband Brian Walker -- whom I had just profiled for the Sun-Times -- was at the tail-end of his late-night acoustic set when "Mama" (that's what he calls her) came strolling in and bellied up.

Bowersox and I had talked several times by phone, and the interviews were generally very friendly. But this time was a bit different. When Walker finished I approached Bowersox, tapped her lightly on the shoulder (she was facing away from me and I didn't want to startle her), and said, "I know you hated the story I wrote about Brian, but I just wanted to introduce myself in person."

Her reply, "Yeah, I did. I really did."

Gotta give her points for honesty. Then again, I'd been told beforehand, that's part of what she loathed about the article: it was too honest. Anyway, she thanked me for coming out, which was swell. And I remain a fan. Onstage, as you might know from watching "Idol" -- and as you'll see if you catch her at Space or the Arcada -- Bowersox has the goods.

Crystal Bowersox Chicago Appearances

Space (with Monte Mar)
1245 Chicago Ave.
Evanston
Friday, March 1 at 8 p.m.
Tickets: $17-$30
www.evanstonspace.com
(847) 492-8860

Arcada Theatre
105 E. Main St.
St. Charles
Saturday, March 2 at 8 p.m.
Tickets $15-$39
21+
www.oshows.com
(630) 962-7000