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Season 21 of American Idol came to a close on Sunday, with high school senior Iam Tongi winning first place. Tongi, who is originally from Hawaii, performed an original song titled "I'll Be Seeing You" during the finale, which won him the coveted prize as well as a recording contract.
Over the years, American Idol has produced several successful singers and performers, many of whom are well-known in the music industry. From Kelly Clarkson to Carrie Underwood, American Idol has been responsible for providing the industry with versatile and talented singers.
Here are five successful winners that the show has produced through the years.
Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Phillip Phillipps and 2 other successful American Idol alumni
1) Kelly Clarkson (Season 1)
Kelly Clarkson is widely regarded as one of the most successful American Idol winners. After winning the debut season of the show, she became an instant star and went on to have a highly successful music career.
Clarkson has released multiple hit singles, including "Since U Been Gone," "Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)," and "Because of You," among others. Throughout her career, she has achieved numerous accolades, including three Grammy Awards, multiple Billboard Music Awards, and American Music Awards.
Her enduring popularity and consistent ability to produce chart-topping hits have solidified her status as one of the most successful winners of the show. She has recorded ten albums and sold more than 14 million copies.
2) Carrie Underwood (Season 4)
Carrie Underwood won the fourth season of American Idol. Known for her powerhouse vocals and engaging stage presence, she has become one of the most successful country music artists of her generation.
After winning American Idol, Underwood released her debut album, Some Hearts, in 2005. The album was an instant success, reaching multi-platinum status and producing several hit singles, including "Jesus, Take the Wheel," which won Underwood her first Grammy Award.
Throughout her career, Carrie Underwood has won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and Country Music Association (CMA) Awards. With 16.3 million albums sold worldwide, she has solidified her status as a respected and influential figure in the music industry.
3) Jordin Sparks (Season 6)
Jordin Sparks became the youngest winner in the history of American Idol, after placing first in the sixth season of the show in 2007.
Following her win, Sparks released her self-titled debut album, Jordin Sparks, in 2007. The album featured hit singles like "Tattoo" and "No Air," which were all massive hits and took top spots on Billboard Hot 100 charts.
Throughout her career, Jordin Sparks has received several awards and nominations, including an American Music Award, a BET Award, and an NAACP Image Award. She has also been recognized for her philanthropic efforts, supporting various charitable causes.
In recent years, Sparks has continued to release music independently, embracing a more R&B and contemporary sound. Jordin Sparks' talent, versatility, and warm personality have endeared her to fans worldwide. Her success on American Idol launched her career, and she has since solidified her place in the music industry.
4) Fantasia Barrino-Taylor (Season 3)
Fantasia Barrino-Taylor or Fantasia, rose to fame as the winner of the third season of American Idol in 2004.
Following her victory, Fantasia released her debut studio album, Free Yourself, in 2004. The lead single, "I Believe," debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making Fantasia the first artist in history to achieve this feat with a debut single.
She has since released several more albums, including Fantasia (2006), Back to Me (2010), Side Effects of You (2013), and Sketchbook (2019), all of which received positive reviews and showcased her growth as an artist. Her soulful renditions of songs have earned her numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards and Billboard Music Awards.
In addition to her music career, Fantasia has also ventured into acting. She made her Broadway debut in 2007, starring as Celie in The Color Purple musical, which earned her critical acclaim and a Theater World Award.
5) Phillip Phillips (Season 11)
Phillip Phillips won the eleventh season of American Idol in 2012. Following his victory, Phillips released his single, "Home," which became a major hit and was a commercial success. The song peaked at number six on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Phillips has since released successful albums and singles, including The World from the Side of the Moon (2012), which featured the hit single "Gone, Gone, Gone," and, Behind the Light (2014), which featured the singles "Raging Fire" and "Unpack Your Heart."
Throughout his career, Phillip Phillips has toured extensively, performing his music to sold-out audiences. His live performances highlight his talent as a guitarist and his ability to connect with the crowd through his heartfelt performances. Phillip Phillips' soulful voice, authentic songwriting, and distinctive musical style have garnered him a dedicated fan base.
American Idol has officially been renewed for Season 22 on ABC.
