Kimberley Locke did more than survive Simon Cowell. The American Idol season 2 alum flourished.

See the Finally Free singer perform “My American Idols,” at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center Friday and Saturday. The title is a nod to legendary singers — from Judy Garland and Etta James to Donna Summer and Whitney Houston — who inspired Locke as an artist.

The Tennessee native is excited to perform cabaret style. “I get to tell stories, and people are going to walk away knowing more about me. I’m actually really funny. At least that’s what they tell me!”

Though Idol has gone through a lot of changes over the years, Locke, 34, still thinks it’s a great stepping stone: “The amount of exposure and just the things I learned about the business were priceless.” All that exposure led to not only a successful musical career but also a stint on Celebrity Fit Club. Locke, who splits her time between NYC and L.A., learned to cut herself some slack when it comes to diet.

“I’m a carb girl! If I look at carbs I blow up!” she says. “But now I just try to make the best choices along the way. It’s not about deprivation, it’s about moderation.”

Locke’s biggest lesson learned thus far: Don’t go changing. “There are a lot of great singers out here. You have to know what sets you apart from the rest and walk in that space and be confident there.”

As for the rumored rift between new judges Mariah Car ey and Nicki Minaj?

“We won’t know the extent of the drama until it airs,” she opines. “[ Idol] is great about keeping things interesting.”

Tickets to the 8 p.m. shows: 877-311-7469, www.AventuraCenter.org