by Johnny Loftus
Nikki Cleary first found success with the 2001 novelty pop hit "I.M. Me," which was issued under her given name, Brittney Cleary. But when buzz surrounding that single generated label interest in the young singer, her eventual signing with Jive facilitated a name change. After all, the powerhouse pop label already had one Britney in its stable. Cleary's eponymous full-length debut appeared in August 2003. It was a clean-cut set of originals and peppy covers, and included a duet with Dream Street heartthrob Chris Trousdale on the Grease classic "You're the One That I Want." The record made some waves at Radio Disney, and Cleary supported it that autumn with a round of mini-concerts at malls and middle schools.