NBC NEWS- It's the latest "American Idol" controversy.

"I want to be the next 'American Idol' because i want to sing," this year's contestant Carly Smithson said.

But many fans of what is thought to be an amateur talent contest are crying foul, saying that Smithson, who had a previous record deal while using her maiden name, is no amateur.

"She was at her record company at the same time that Randy Jackson, the judge, was the head of A&R at that record company, which was in the late '90s," said Seth Abramovitch. "Some people would call that a conflict of interest."

In 2001, the former Carly Hennessy released "Ultimate High", an album that MCA Records spent more than $2 million to produce and promote. It sold fewer than 400 copies.

With no mention of a previous record deal in her audition segment or her official online bio, Carly Smithson is reinventing herself. And Smithson isn't the only 'Idol' contestant this season with professional experience.

"Michael Johns had a deal with Maverick Records. They ended up not making his album. He was dropped before that but he certainly has experience in the music business," said Dina Sansing of Us Weekly.

Kristy Lee Cook had a record deal with RCA.

Even 16-year-old David Archuleta is a veteran of the music industry. He was the winner of "Star Search" four years ago when he was only 12.

With so many contestants having prior experience, maybe 'Idol' producers are hoping to avoid another Sanjaya-like experience.