MELINDA DOOLITTLE

STRATEGIC INITIATIVE Flawless renditions of ''My Funny Valentine'' and ''I'm a Woman'' marked her as this season's pro-tem leader, but is she too polished too soon? If viewers don't see week-to-week growth, it could spell a backlash, especially if Melinda overplays the meek-mouse routine in interviews.

FROCK U Oh, Mindy Doo, you're 29 — not 59! Retire those stodgy pantsuits and upgrade to chic, colorful dresses (like the one at left) that elongate your silhouette.

REQUEST LIST Anita Baker's ''Sweet Love,'' Tina Turner's ''Steamy Windows''