For over 20 years, American Idol has remained as one of the most popular TV singing competitions. While the show might not have the same impact as the beginning, it’s safe to say that it is still a great way for artists to showcase their talent. And there have been great voices to come out of the show.
Of course, “Idol” has evolved with the times. In the first seasons, artists came and sang acapella (sometimes they played guitar) in front of the judges in a tiny room. Now, the show is more sophisticated and the singers now have the opportunity to perform their original songs right from the start.
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With many talented singers competing on the show, it’s really hard to pick just a few to say that they have been the best singers. But, we’ve tried. Some of them are also part of the group of most successful losers to come out of the show, but there are some American Idol winners too. So, check out.
10 Best Singers from American Idol
Kelly Clarkson (Season 1, winner)
Kelly Clarkson (Mike Coppola/Getty Images)
Kelly Clarkson shot to fame as the first winner of the show in 2002. With her powerful voice and infectious charm, she quickly became one of the most successful alumni of the show, releasing hit singles like “Since U Been Gone” and “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” and earning two Grammy Awards.
Adam Lambert (Season 8, runner-up)
Adam Lambert (Rich Fury/Getty Images)
Known for his flamboyant style and impressive vocal range, Lambert has pursued a successful career in music, releasing several albums and touring internationally. He’s also ventured into acting and theater, including a stint as the lead vocalist for Queen.
Jennifer Hudson (Season 3, seventh place)
Jennifer Hudson (Emma McIntyre/Getty Images)
Jennifer Hudson rose to prominence as a contestant on the third season of American Idol, where she showcased her powerhouse vocals and captivating stage presence. Despite her early elimination, Hudson went on to achieve immense success, winning an Academy Award for her role in “Dreamgirls” and later becoming an EGOT.
Carrie Underwood (Season 4, winner)
Carrie Underwood (Emma McIntyre/Getty Images)
Carrie Underwood captured the hearts of millions with her angelic voice and down-to-earth charm during her winning season on the show in 2005. Since then, she has become one of the biggest stars in country music, earning multiple Grammy Awards and selling millions of records worldwide.
Fantasia Barrino (Season 3, winner)
Fantasia Barrino (Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
Fantasia Barrino won the hearts of audiences with her raw talent and emotional performances on American Idol’s third season. Her soulful voice and compelling personal story propelled her to victory, and she has since enjoyed a successful career in music, theater and now, film.
Clay Aiken (Season 2, runner-up)
Clay Aiken (Mike Windle/Getty Images)
Clay Aiken charmed viewers with his smooth vocals and boy-next-door appeal during the second season of American Idol. Though he finished as the runner-up, Aiken has maintained a loyal fan base and pursued a career in music, theater, and politics.
David Cook (Season 7, winner)
David Cook (Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
David Cook captured the hearts of America with his rock-infused performances and heartfelt renditions of classic songs during his winning season on American Idol in 2008. Since then, he has released several albums and toured extensively.
Chris Daughtry (Season 5, fourth place)
Chris Daughtry ( Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
Chris Daughtry’s powerful voice and rockstar persona catapulted him to fame as a finalist on the fifth season of American Idol. Despite finishing in fourth place, Daughtry went on to front the band Daughtry, achieving commercial success with hits like “It’s Not Over” and “Home.”
David Archuleta (Season 7, runner-up)
David Archuleta ( Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images)
David Archuleta captured the hearts of viewers with his boyish charm and soulful voice during the seventh season of American Idol. Though he finished as the runner-up, Archuleta has continued to pursue a career in music, releasing albums and touring internationally.
Haley Reinhart (Season 10, third place)
Haley Reinhart (Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
Haley Reinhart wowed audiences with her bluesy voice and unique style during her run on the tenth season of American Idol. Despite finishing in third place, Reinhart has carved out a successful career in music, releasing albums and collaborating with renowned artists.
