American Idol winners: where are they now?

24 winners from seasons 1–24, with the latest documented career update of each.

Every update has a date and links to its sources. A season name opens the full season: finalists, semifinalists and their careers.

WinnerSeasonAfter the show
Kelly Clarkson
Season 1 (2002)⁠[1][2][3]As of September 9, 2026Kelly Clarkson returned as a coach for season 30 of NBC's The Voice, which NBC scheduled to premiere on September 21, 2026. In July 2026 she released the single "I'd Be Lyin'", reported as the lead single of a planned 11th studio album, and her Studio Sessions residency at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas ran until August 15, 2026. Her daytime talk show, The Kelly Clarkson Show, ends with its seventh season in fall 2026.⁠[4][5][6][7]
Ruben Studdard
Season 2 (2003)⁠[2][8][9]As of September 6, 2025Ruben Studdard performs as a solo R&B singer. His official website listed 2025 concert dates from July 30 to September 6, 2025, in Detroit, Temecula, Portsmouth, Old Saybrook and Boston. His latest studio album, The Way I Remember It, came out on SoNo Recording Group (SRG/ILS) in October 2023, and in 2024 he competed with Clay Aiken on The Masked Singer.⁠[10][11][12]
Fantasia Barrino
Season 3 (2004)⁠[2][13][14]As of October 3, 2026Fantasia Barrino is set to headline The Love of Soul Tour, a 24-date U.S. arena tour with Anthony Hamilton and October London from February to May 2027, announced in September 2026. She is also in the cast of Tyler Perry's The Gospel of Christmas, a Netflix holiday film on the service's 2026 slate.⁠[15][16][17][18]
Carrie Underwood
Season 4 (2005)⁠[2][19][20]As of September 25, 2026Carrie Underwood is a judge on American Idol, the show she won in 2005. In September 2026 she was confirmed for season 25, her third season on the panel, which is expected to air in 2027. Her most recent studio album is Denim & Rhinestones (2022), and her Las Vegas residency Reflection ran from December 2021 to its scheduled final shows in April 2025.⁠[21][22][23]
Taylor Hicks
Season 5 (2006)⁠[2][24][25]Latest documented update, June 16, 2023Taylor Hicks made his Grand Ole Opry debut on June 16, 2023, after releasing the single Porch Swing in February 2023. He has released music on Modern Whomp since 2008, after Arista and 19 Recordings from 2006 to 2008.⁠[26][27]
Jordin Sparks
Season 6 (2007)⁠[2][28][29]Latest documented update, 2025Jordin Sparks released her fifth studio album, No Restrictions, in September 2024, and a holiday EP, Joy, with the music company Epidemic Sound in November 2024. Her discography lists further non-album singles in 2025, including Safe to Me and Who Cares?.⁠[30][31][32]
David Cook
Season 7 (2008)⁠[2][33][34]As of July 22, 2026David Cook releases music on his own label, Analog Heart Music. In July 2026 he announced U.S. tour dates from July 14 to 30 behind the single Bleed Me Dry, and The Villain, a three-track EP set for release on July 31, 2026, which continues a series of themed EPs that began with The Hero in 2025.⁠[35][36][37][38]
Kris Allen
Season 8 (2009)⁠[2][39][40]As of December 13, 2025Kris Allen records and releases music independently through his own DogBear Records imprint. He released the album Pole Vaulter on August 30, 2024. A December 13, 2025 event listing billed him as a featured guest at Jon McLaughlin's "Home For The Holidays" concert in Bloomington, Indiana.⁠[41][42][43]
Lee DeWyze
Season 9 (2010)⁠[2][44][45]As of June 28, 2026Lee DeWyze is a singer-songwriter. His album Gone For Days was released in August 2024 on Mavelle Records. In 2026 he was booked for concerts including the Fairfield Theatre Company in Connecticut on January 27 and the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix on June 28. His songs have been licensed to more than 100 shows, films and commercials.⁠[46][47][48][49]
Scotty McCreery
Season 10 (2011)⁠[2][50][51]As of August 20, 2026Scotty McCreery records for Triple Tigers. On July 17, 2026 he released 15, a retrospective album of earlier hits and four new recordings. He hosts a monthly show on SiriusXM Prime Country, and in August 2026 he said he expects to play fewer concerts but does not plan to retire.⁠[52][53][54][55]
Phillip Phillips
Season 11 (2012)⁠[2][56][57]As of September 4, 2026Phillip Phillips now releases music independently under the name Phil Phil Music. He issued the five-song EP Let's Go Far: Vol. 1 on September 4, 2026, and announced a North American headlining tour set to start in Dallas on September 10, 2026. Earlier in 2026 he finished second on season 14 of The Masked Singer.⁠[58][59][60][61]
Candice Glover
Season 12 (2013)⁠[2][62][63]Latest documented update, 2019Candice Glover released Music Speaks on February 18, 2014, through 19 Recordings and Interscope Records. The album reached No. 14 on the Billboard 200. On January 8, 2016 she said she had parted ways with those labels and would release her next album independently. She sang on Broadway in Home For the Holidays from November 17 to December 30, 2017, and in 2019 she played Tiana in GRITS: Girls Raised in the South.⁠[64][65][66]
Caleb Johnson
Season 13 (2014)⁠[2][67]Latest documented update, May 2023Caleb Johnson released Mountain Mojo Vol. 1 on June 18, 2021, and sang lead on Paradise Found: Bat Out of Hell Reignited, released on January 27, 2023. In May 2023 he toured the United Kingdom with the Neverland Express. In 2019, Caleb Johnson & The Ramblin' Saints released Born from Southern Ground on his label, Big Johnson Records.⁠[68][69][70][71]
Nick Fradiani
Season 14 (2015)⁠[2][72]As of July 12, 2026Nick Fradiani, the season 14 winner, was lead singer of Beach Avenue and released Hurricane on August 5, 2016. He parted with Big Machine Label Group and 19 Entertainment in January 2017, released Where We Left Off on October 13, 2017, and Past My Past on November 25, 2022. He played Neil Diamond-Then in A Beautiful Noise on Broadway and on the tour billed through July 12, 2026.⁠[73]
Trent Harmon
Season 15 (2016)⁠[2][74]As of May 30, 2025Trent Harmon received a recording contract with Big Machine Records when he won American Idol on April 7, 2016, and he parted ways with Big Machine in May 2019. The EP Trent Harmon came out on December 9, 2016, on 19 Recordings. The album You Got 'Em All came out on May 18, 2018, on Big Machine Records, and had sold 4,500 copies in the United States as of June 2018. On May 30, 2025, he released the Christian EP Scars & Sins on Soul Chaser LLC.⁠[75][76]
Maddie Poppe
Season 16 (2018)⁠[2][77]Latest documented update, 2025Maddie Poppe released the independent album Songs from the Basement on June 20, 2016, and Whirlwind with Hollywood Records and 19 Recordings on May 17, 2019. In 2025 she released a cover of Rainbow Connection.⁠[78]
Laine Hardy
Season 17 (2019)⁠[2][79]Latest documented update, January 17, 2025Hardy released the three-song EP In the Bayou on May 18, 2018. By June 26, 2019 he had signed with Hollywood Records, and Flame came out on May 19, 2019. Here's to Anyone came out on September 17, 2021. By October 30, 2024 he had said he left Disney Music Group the previous year. Back of My Mind came out on January 17, 2025.⁠[80][81][82]
Just Sam
Season 18 (2020)⁠[2][83][84]Latest documented update, April 29, 2024Just Sam signed with Hollywood Records and 19 Recordings after winning in May 2020 and left the label about a year later without releasing an album. They released independent singles in 2021 and said in 2023 that they had gone back to singing in New York City subways for money. By late 2023 they had signed with an agent at CrowdMGMT, and on April 28, 2024 they returned to American Idol as a guest performer.⁠[85][86][87][88]
Chayce Beckham
Season 19 (2021)⁠[2][89]As of October 8, 2026Chayce Beckham, winner of American Idol in 2021, records for Wheelhouse Records with 19 Recordings. His single "23," which he wrote, reached number one on the Billboard Country Airplay chart dated April 6, 2024, and was certified platinum in the United States. His debut album, Bad for Me, came out on April 5, 2024. He released the EP Old Fashioned on September 25, 2026.⁠[90][91][92][93]
Noah Thompson
Season 20 (2022)⁠[2][94]As of September 12, 2025Noah Thompson won American Idol on May 22, 2022. 19 Recordings and BBR released the EP Middle of God Knows Where on June 9, 2023. One Day Tonight reached number 48 on Hot Country Songs. In May 2024 19 Recordings confirmed he was no longer on its roster, and on June 11, 2024 he said he would continue as an independent artist. Next Chapter Records released Upbringing in August 2024, and Find Em in a Bar followed in September 2025. He is a writer on Front Door Famous, the first song on Luke Combs's Fathers & Sons.⁠[95][96][97][98]
Iam Tongi
Season 21 (2023)⁠[2][99]As of March 13, 2026William Guy Tongi, who performs as Iam Tongi, won American Idol season 21 in 2023. He released Dreams in 2020 and I'll Be Seeing You in May 2023, then the singles Why Kiki? and Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride. On March 13, 2026, 19 Recordings, Inc. released his debut album Good For My Soul.⁠[100][101][102]
Abi Carter
Season 22 (2024)⁠[2][103]As of July 18, 2026Abi Carter won American Idol on May 19, 2024. She released the 10-track album ghosts in the backyard on November 15, 2024 on Ethos Music Group, and a deluxe edition on April 25, 2025. She has not signed with a record label.⁠[104][105]
Jamal Roberts
Season 23 (2025)⁠[2][106]As of October 3, 2026Jamal Roberts released his debut album, The Journey, on October 2, 2026, through 19 Recordings under exclusive license to BMG. At the 68th Annual Grammy Awards in 2026 he was nominated for Best Gospel Performance/Song for Still (Live) with Jonathan McReynolds. After his 2025 American Idol win, he joined Brandy and Monica on The Boy Is Mine Tour.⁠[107][108][109]
Hannah Harper
Season 24 (2026)⁠[2][110]As of September 4, 2026After winning season 24 in May 2026, Hannah Harper released the singles "Married Into This Town" (July 2026) and "Hold Your Horses" (September 2026) through 19 Recordings/Atlantic Outpost. She is touring with her family band on her String Cheese Tour, scheduled to run through November 14, 2026, and was announced for select fall 2026 dates supporting Brad Paisley and Lauren Alaina.⁠[111][112][113][114]

Sources

114 sources

  1. American Idol season 1 — Wikipedia, updated September 21, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Elimination chart row Kelly Clarkson: Pl. 1, Winner in the Finale column (9/4); ratings table episode 'Season 1 Finale', September 4, 2002
    • Lead section: “Kelly Clarkson won the competition, defeating Justin Guarini, who finished in second place.”
  2. List of American Idol finalists — Wikipedia, updated June 10, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (8)
    • Contestants table, row Kelly Clarkson: season 1, place finish Winner
    • Contestants table, row Ruben Studdard: season 2, place finish Winner
    • Contestants table, row Fantasia Barrino: season 3, place finish Winner
    • Contestants table, row Carrie Underwood: season 4, place finish Winner
    • Contestants table, row Taylor Hicks: season 5, place finish Winner
    • Contestants table, row Jordin Sparks: season 6, place finish Winner
    • Contestants table, row David Cook: season 7, place finish Winner
    • Contestants table, row Kris Allen: season 8, place finish Winner
  3. Kelly Clarkson Won 'American Idol' 23 Years Ago. See Her on TODAY at 20 — TODAY (NBC News), published September 9, 2025. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
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    • Article text: “The former waitress-turned-pop star beat fellow contestant Justin Guarini in the final on Sept. 4, with nearly 23 million watching from home.”
  4. Everything to Know About The Voice Season 30: Coaches, Premiere Date, and More — NBC, updated September 9, 2026. Official record. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
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    • Premiere date and coaches: “returning Adam Levine and Kelly Clarkson, joined by newcomers Queen Latifah and Riley Green.”
  5. Kelly Clarkson releases 'I'd Be Lyin,' first single of 2026 — UPI, published July 17, 2026. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
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    • Paragraph 2: “is expected to appear as the lead single from Clarkson's forthcoming 11th studio album.”
  6. Kelly Clarkson: Studio Sessions — Wikipedia, updated August 16, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
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    • Lead section: “The residency commenced on July 11, 2025, and concluded on August 15, 2026, featuring 24 shows.”
  7. The Kelly Clarkson Show To End This Fall After 7 Seasons: 'This Was Not An Easy Decision,' Host Says — TVLine, published February 2, 2026. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
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    • Paragraph 1: “is officially ending with the conclusion of its seventh season this fall”
  8. American Idol season 2 — Wikipedia, updated September 16, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
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    • Elimination chart row Ruben Studdard: Pl. 1, Winner in the Finale column (5/21); ratings table episode 'American Idol Season 2 Finale', May 21, 2003
    • Lead section: “The second season was won by Ruben Studdard, who defeated Clay Aiken by 134,000 votes out of the 24 million votes recorded.”
  9. Ruben wins 'Idol' by slim margin — Lawrence Journal-World (Knight Ridder Newspapers), published May 22, 2003. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
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    • Article text: “Ruben Studdard, a mammoth man with dimples and an infectious smile, is the new American Idol.”
  10. Ruben Studdard Official 2025 Tour Dates — RubenStuddard.com. Label or artist. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Tour dates list (July 30 to September 6, 2025): “Ruben Studdard Official 2025 Tour Dates”
  11. Ruben Studdard Shares New Album 'The Way I Remember It' — Rated R&B, published October 27, 2023. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article body: “The Way I Remember It, via SoNo Recording Group (SRG/ILS)”
  12. Ruben Studdard (Wikipedia revision 1378845648) — Wikipedia, updated October 6, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Career, 2019-present section: “In 2024, Studdard paired up with Clay Aiken when they competed in eleventh season of The Masked Singer”
  13. American Idol season 3 — Wikipedia, updated August 19, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Elimination chart row Fantasia Barrino: Pl. 1, Winner in the Finale column (5/26); ratings table episode 'American Idol Season 3 Finale', May 26, 2004
    • Lead section: “The third season was won by Fantasia Barrino, who defeated Diana DeGarmo by an approximate margin of 2% (1.3 million votes)”
  14. Fantasia Wins 'American Idol' — CBS News (CBS/AP). News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article text: “Fantasia Barrino's fantasy of pop stardom became a reality Wednesday night when she was named the winner of "American Idol."”
  15. Fantasia To Headline 'The Love Of Soul' Tour Featuring Anthony Hamilton, October London — RTTNews, published October 3, 2026. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Paragraph 1: “a 24-date U.S. arena run stretching from February through May 2027”
  16. Fantasia, Anthony Hamilton & October London Unite For 'The Love Of Soul Tour' In 2027 — SoulBounce, published September 28, 2026. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Tour dates paragraph: “The shows kick off in Washington, D.C. on February 5, 2027”
  17. 'Tyler Perry's The Gospel Of Christmas' To Star Fantasia, Tank, Shirley Casear, The Clark Sisters And More — Blavity, published January 7, 2026. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
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    • Headline: “'Tyler Perry's The Gospel Of Christmas' To Star Fantasia, Tank, Shirley Casear, The Clark Sisters And More”
  18. Fantasia (singer) — Wikipedia, updated September 18, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Career, 2017–present: “In January 2026, it was announced that Barrino will star in Tyler Perry's upcoming film, The Gospel of Christmas for Netflix.”
  19. American Idol season 4 — Wikipedia, updated September 14, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Elimination chart row Carrie Underwood: Pl. 1, Winner in the Finale column (5/25); ratings table episode 'American Idol Season 4 Finale', May 25, 2005
    • Lead section: “Carrie Underwood won the season with approximately 500 million votes cast in the season and 37 million for the finale, while Bo Bice was the runner-up.”
  20. New 'Idol' Vows To Stay Country — CBS News (CBS/AP), published May 25, 2005. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article text: “Carrie Underwood, the country sweetheart who beguiled national television audiences with her strong voice and bright smile, is this year's "American Idol," defeating Southern rocker Bo Bice”
  21. Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood and Lionel Richie Confirm American Idol For 25th Season — Holler, published September 25, 2026. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Article body: “Season 25 will mark Bryan and Richie's 10th season together, while Underwood returns for her third.”
    • Article body: “the show is expected to return in 2027 and auditions are already underway.”
  22. Carrie Underwood discography — Wikipedia, updated September 11, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Albums, Studio albums table, last row: “Denim & Rhinestones; Released: June 10, 2022; Label: Capitol Nashville”
  23. Carrie Underwood Announces Final Shows For Las Vegas Residency — antiMusic, published October 15, 2024. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Paragraphs 1 and 3: “Underwood will present three final performances of REFLECTION: The Las Vegas Residency on April 9, 11 & 12, 2025”
  24. American Idol season 5 — Wikipedia, updated May 18, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Elimination chart row Taylor Hicks: Pl. 1, Winner in the Finale column (5/24); ratings table episode 'Season 5 Finale', May 24, 2006
    • Lead section: “Taylor Hicks was named the winner, while Katharine McPhee was the runner-up.”
  25. Hicks takes 'American Idol' crown — Lawrence Journal-World (Associated Press), published May 25, 2006. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article text: “Taylor Hicks, the mop-topped manic dancer who wooed TV audiences with his raw singing style and boisterous personality, was named the new “American Idol” Wednesday”
  26. Taylor Hicks (Wikipedia revision 1364623378) — Wikipedia, updated July 17, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 7, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • 2009–present: “Hicks made his Grand Ole Opry debut on June 16, 2023.”
    • Infobox label: “Modern Whomp (2008–present)”
  27. Taylor Hicks Delivers Romantic Soul in Porch Swing — Taste of Country, published February 26, 2023. News report. Retrieved October 7, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article opening: “the release of his newest single, "Porch Swing,"”
  28. American Idol season 6 — Wikipedia, updated July 26, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Elimination chart row Jordin Sparks: Pl. 1, Winner in the Finale column (5/23); ratings table episode 'Season 6 Finale', May 23, 2007
    • Lead section: “Jordin Sparks won the competition, while Blake Lewis was the runner-up.”
  29. Blake's next step after 'Idol' loss — The Daily Herald (HeraldNet), published May 23, 2007. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article text: “His opponent, Jordin Sparks, 17, the singing sweetheart from Glendale, Ariz., won the title of America’s future superstar”
  30. Jordin Sparks — Wikipedia, updated September 19, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Career, 2023-present section: “Sparks released her fifth studio album, No Restrictions on September 13, 2024.”
  31. Jordin Sparks Continues Successful Partnership with Epidemic Sound, Releasing Second Holiday EP Joy — Epidemic Sound (press release via Cision), published November 1, 2024. Label or artist. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Announcement: “available now across all major DSPs and in Epidemic Sound's catalog”
  32. Jordin Sparks discography — Wikipedia, updated September 29, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Singles as lead artist table, 2025 rows: “Safe to Me”
  33. American Idol season 7 — Wikipedia, updated July 29, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Elimination chart row David Cook: Pl. 1, Winner in the Finale column (5/21); ratings table episode 'Season 7 Finale', May 21, 2008
    • Lead section: “David Cook was announced as the winner on May 21, 2008, defeating runner-up David Archuleta”
  34. Cook Wins in David vs. David Battle — ABC News, published May 22, 2008. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article text: “In a surprise win, David Cook won "American Idol" in last night's season finale by 12 million votes.”
  35. New Music Alert - The Villain EP Drops Digitally! — DavidCookOfficial.com, published July 22, 2026. Label or artist. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Post body: “David Cook's new EP, THE VILLAIN, arrives on all major streaming platforms on Friday, July 31!”
  36. David Cook announces Bleed Me Dry Tour! — DavidCookOfficial.com, published July 8, 2026. Label or artist. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Post body: “David is hitting the road this month in support of his new single”
    • Upcoming Tour Dates list, last entry (first entry 07/14 – Marion, IL): “07/30 – Fairfield, CT”
  37. David Cook announces new music on the way! — DavidCookOfficial.com, published February 18, 2025. Label or artist. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Post body: “Get ready for a series of brand-new music, with multiple themed EPs dropping throughout the year.”
  38. David Cook (singer) — Wikipedia, updated September 9, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Career, 2012-2016 section: “Digital Vein was released on September 18, 2015, through Cook's own independent label, Analog Heart Music.”
  39. American Idol season 8 — Wikipedia, updated August 31, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Elimination chart row Kris Allen: Pl. 1, Winner in the Finale column (5/20); ratings table episode 'Season 8 Finale', May 20, 2009
    • Lead section: “Kris Allen was announced the winner of the competition on May 20, 2009, defeating runner-up Adam Lambert after nearly 100 million votes were cast.”
  40. American Idol Upset: Kris Allen Beats Adam Lambert — ABC News. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article text: “Kris Allen won "American Idol," beating out Adam Lambert, the season-long favorite.”
  41. Pole Vaulter - Kris Allen — Apple Music. Release database. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Album header: “August 30, 2024 14 songs, 47 minutes ℗ 2024 DogBear Records”
  42. 2025 Jon McLaughlin & Friends: Home For The Holidays — Opendate (Buskirk-Chumley Theater event listing). Label or artist. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Event description: “a stellar lineup of friends and collaborators, including American Idol winner Kris Allen, acclaimed pop-soul singer-songwriter David Davis, and powerhouse vocalist and Broadway star Morgan James”
  43. Kris Allen discography — Wikipedia, updated April 23, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
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    • Lead section, paragraph 2: “He has since released three albums on his independent label imprint DogBear Records”
  44. American Idol season 9 — Wikipedia, updated August 11, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
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    • Elimination chart row Lee DeWyze: Pl. 1, Winner in the Finale column (5/26); ratings table episode 'Winner Revealed', May 26, 2010
    • Lead section: “Lee DeWyze, a folk rocker from Mount Prospect, Illinois, won the competition, beating out fellow folk rocker Crystal Bowersox, who was the runner-up.”
  45. How DeWyze Won 'American Idol' — Pollstar (Associated Press), published May 27, 2010. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article text: “Lee DeWyze, the bashful paint sales clerk championed early by the biting British judge on the Fox singing contest, was crowned “Idol” on Wednesday over single mother Crystal Bowersox.”
  46. Lee DeWyze out to show he's so much more than a former 'American Idol' winner — TribLIVE (Pittsburgh Tribune-Review), published October 10, 2024. News report. Retrieved October 7, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article body: “which came out in August”
  47. iTunes Lookup API: Apple artist 356767680 (Lee DeWyze) albums — Apple. Release database. Retrieved October 7, 2026.
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    • Gone For Days copyright: "copyright":"℗ 2024 MAVELLE RECORDS"
  48. Lee DeWyze @ FTC — Fairfield Theatre Company. News report. Retrieved October 7, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Event header: “Tuesday | January 27, 2026”
    • Description: “Lee's music has been featured in over 100+ shows, movies, trailers, and commercials”
  49. Lee DeWyze | Phoenix, AZ | Musical Instrument Museum — Musical Instrument Museum. News report. Retrieved October 7, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Event header: “Sunday, June 28, 2026”
  50. American Idol season 10 — Wikipedia, updated September 29, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Elimination chart row Scotty McCreery: Pl. 1, Winner in the Finale column (5/25); ratings table episode 'Winner Revealed', May 25, 2011
    • Lead section: “Scotty McCreery was crowned the winner of the tenth season of American Idol, with Lauren Alaina as the runner-up.”
  51. Scotty McCreery is the American Idol 2011 winner: Was he your pick? — The Christian Science Monitor, published May 26, 2011. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article text: “Scotty McCreery was crowned Season 10's American Idol.”
  52. Scotty McCreery streaming his new retrospective album 15 — antiMusic, published July 17, 2026. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Paragraph 1: “15 - featuring nine of his hit songs and four new recordings”
  53. 15 - Album by Scotty McCreery — Apple Music. Release database. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Album header and copyright line: “℗ 2026 Triple Tigers”
  54. News — ScottyMcCreery.com (official site). Label or artist. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • News item dated August 1, 2026: “The August episode of 'Prime Country with Scotty McCreery' debuts this Saturday, August 1 at 3 PM ET, on SiriusXM Prime Country Ch. 58.”
  55. Scotty McCreery Says Retirement Isn't Happening, But This Is — Taste of Country, published August 20, 2026. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Interview quotes: “retirement, that word never crosses my mind, but slowing down a little bit does.”
  56. American Idol season 11 — Wikipedia, updated May 27, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Elimination chart row Phillip Phillips: Pl. 1, Winner in the Finale column (5/23); ratings table episode 'Finale', May 23, 2012
    • Lead section: “On May 23, 2012, Phillip Phillips became the winner of the eleventh season of American Idol, beating Jessica Sanchez, who was the runner-up.”
  57. "American Idol" finale: Phillip Phillips wins title over Jessica Sanchez — CBS News, published May 24, 2012. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article title: “"American Idol" finale: Phillip Phillips wins title over Jessica Sanchez”
  58. Let's Go Far: Vol. 1 - EP by Phillip Phillips — Apple Music, published September 4, 2026. Release database. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Release header and copyright line: “℗ 2026 Phil Phil Music”
  59. Phillip Phillips Kicks Off His Next Era With New Single, as He Announces Forthcoming EP and Tour (Exclusive) — American Songwriter, published June 23, 2026. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article body: “The trek will kick off Sept. 10 in Dallas, and take Phillips across North America.”
  60. 'American Idol' Winner Phillip Phillips Finishes 'The Masked Singer' in Second Place — Talent Recap, published April 2, 2026. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article body: “Pugcasso finished the competition in second place.”
  61. Phillip Phillips — Wikipedia, updated July 21, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Career section, 2023–2025 subsection: “This was his first release as an indie artist”
  62. American Idol season 12 — Wikipedia, updated September 25, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Elimination chart row Candice Glover: Pl. 1, Winner in the Finale column (5/16); ratings table episode 'Finale', May 16, 2013
    • Lead section: “On May 16, 2013, Candice Glover was crowned the winner, defeating Kree Harrison, who was the runner-up.”
  63. Candice Glover Wins 12th Season Of 'American Idol' — Pollstar (Associated Press), published May 17, 2013. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article text: “Glover looked stunned when “Idol” host Ryan Seacrest announced she bested soulful 22-year-old country singer Kree Harrison from Woodville, Texas.”
  64. Music Speaks (Wikipedia revision 1359427626) — Wikipedia, updated June 15, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Lead: “released on February 18, 2014, by Interscope Records.”
    • Commercial performance: “debuted at No. fourteen on the Billboard 200 chart with sales of 19,000 for the week”
  65. Candice Glover Talks Life After Winning 'American Idol': Interview — Rated R&B, published January 8, 2016, updated July 31, 2024. News report. Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Interview, January 8, 2016: “I parted ways with them. I'm going to release it independently.”
  66. Candice Glover — Wikipedia, updated September 27, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 7, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Filmography, 2019: “GRITS: Girls Raised in the South”
  67. American Idol season 13 — Wikipedia, updated September 29, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Lead section; Elimination chart, row Caleb Johnson: Pl. 1, Finale (5/21) Winner: “On May 21, Caleb Johnson was announced the winner”
  68. Apple album search for Caleb Johnson — Apple. Release database. Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Collection Mountain Mojo, Vol. 1: "releaseDate":"2021-06-18T07:00:00Z"
  69. Paradise Found: Bat Out Of Hell Reignited Set For Release In January 2023 — Deko Entertainment, published October 25, 2022, updated October 28, 2022. Label or artist. Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Release announcement, vocal credit: “Caleb Johnson (American Idol winner, season 13) delivers powerful lead vocal performances across all seven songs.”
  70. Caleb Johnson — Wikipedia, updated October 1, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 7, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • 2014–present: “Johnson toured the United Kingdom along with [[Neverland Express]] in May 2023.”
  71. Caleb Johnson Breaks Heavier Ground With The Ramblin Saints New LP Born From Southern Ground — Glide Magazine, published June 11, 2019. News report. Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Interview answer on the label: “We created my own label. This will be the first album released off of that label.”
  72. American Idol season 14 — Wikipedia, updated July 21, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Lead section; Elimination chart, row Nick Fradiani: Pl. 1, Finale (5/13) Winner; ratings table, episode 30 Season 14 Finale, May 13: “On May 13, Nick Fradiani was announced as this season's winner”
  73. Nick Fradiani — Wikipedia, updated September 3, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 7, 2026.
    Cited parts (6)
    • Beach Avenue: “the lead singer of Milford, Connecticut-based pop/rock band Beach Avenue”
    • Hurricane: “The album ''Hurricane'' was released on August 5, 2016”
    • 2017: “In January 2017, Fradiani parted with Big Machine Label Group and 19 Entertainment.”
    • Where We Left Off: “which was released on October 13, 2017.”
    • Past My Past: “* Released: November 25, 2022”
    • A Beautiful Noise: “The final show of the tour will be on July 12, 2026.”
  74. American Idol season 15 — Wikipedia, updated July 21, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Lead section; Elimination chart, row Trent Harmon: Pl. 1, Finale (4/7) Winner; ratings table, episode 24 Series Finale, April 7, 2016: “On April 7, 2016, Trent Harmon was announced as this season's winner”
  75. Trent Harmon — Wikipedia, updated July 17, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 7, 2026.
    Cited parts (5)
    • American Idol: “a recording contract with [[Big Machine Records]].”
    • American Idol: “Harmon parted ways with Big Machine in May 2019.”
    • Extended plays: “*Released: December 9, 2016”
    • Extended plays: “*Released: May 30, 2025”
    • Extended plays: “*Label: Soul Chaser LLC”
  76. You Got 'Em All (Wikipedia revision 1361397659) — Wikipedia, updated June 27, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Lead: “It was released on May 18, 2018, by [[Big Machine Records]].”
    • Commercial performance: “It has sold 4,500 copies in the United States as of June 2018.”
  77. American Idol season 16 — Wikipedia, updated July 21, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Lead section; Top 3 – Finale (May 21) table; Elimination chart, row Maddie Poppe: Pl. 1, Finale (5/21) Winner; ratings table, episode 19 Grand Finale, May 21, 2018: “Maddie Poppe won the season on May 21, 2018”
  78. Maddie Poppe — Wikipedia, updated August 24, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 7, 2026.
    Cited parts (5)
    • 2015-2016: “on June 20, 2016.”
    • 2019-present: “On May 17, 2019, Poppe released her second studio album, ''Whirlwind''.”
    • Discography, Albums: “* Label: [[Hollywood Records|Hollywood]], [[19 Recordings|19]]”
    • Discography, Singles: “"[[Rainbow Connection]]"”
    • Discography, Singles, 2025 row: “| 2025”
  79. American Idol season 17 — Wikipedia, updated October 3, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Lead section; Top 3 – Finale (May 19) table; Elimination chart, row Laine Hardy: Pl. 1, Finale (5/19) Winner; ratings table, episode 19 Grand Finale, May 19, 2019: “Laine Hardy won the season on May 19, 2019”
  80. Laine Hardy — Wikipedia, updated October 3, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 7, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Extended plays: “* Released: May 18, 2018”
  81. Greyson Chance, Idol Alums Gabby Barrett and Alejandro Aranda Sign Major Label Deals — Variety, published June 26, 2019. News report. Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Hollywood: “alongside 2019 winner Laine Hardy and 2018 champ Maddie Poppe.”
  82. Apple album lookup for artist 1387002256 — Apple. Release database. Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Back of My Mind - Single: "releaseDate":"2025-01-17T08:00:00Z"
  83. American Idol season 18 — Wikipedia, updated July 21, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Lead section; Top 5 – Finale (May 17) table; Elimination chart, row Just Sam: Pl. 1, 5/17 Winner; ratings table, episode 16 Grand Finale, May 17, 2020: “On May 17, 2020, Just Sam was crowned as the winner, with Arthur Gunn finishing as the runner-up.”
  84. 'American Idol' crowns Season 3 winner virtually — CNN, published May 18, 2020, updated May 18, 2020. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article body, paragraphs 1 and 2: “Just Sam became the show’s first ever “at home” winner”
  85. 'American Idol' winner Just Sam returns to show after going viral for busking in NYC subway — TODAY, published April 29, 2024. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (3)
    • Article body: “After winning the show in 2020, Just Sam signed a record deal with Hollywood Records but ultimately parted ways with the label, according to The Washington Post.”
    • Article body: “as of late last year had signed with a new agent at the CrowdMGMT management company, the Post reported.”
    • Article body: “In 2023, they revealed on Instagram that they were back to busking in New York City subways”
  86. 'American Idol' 2020 Winner Just Sam Says She Went Broke Paying Back Her Record Label — Blavity (Shadow and Act), published February 1, 2022. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article body: “After winning a contract with Hollywood Records, she left a year later before she ever recorded an album.”
  87. American Idol Winner Just Sam Signs with 19 Recordings — Music Connection, published May 18, 2020. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article body: “signed an exclusive record deal with Hollywood Records/Industrial Media's 19 Recordings”
  88. Just Sam — Wikipedia, updated August 9, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Post-Idol section: “On March 13, 2021, Just Sam released "Africando," their first single since American Idol”
    • Post-Idol section: “On April 28, 2024, Just Sam was a guest performer on American Idol, performing a cover of "One Moment in Time" by Whitney Houston.”
  89. American Idol season 19 — Wikipedia, updated July 21, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Lead section; Top 3 – Finale (May 23) table; Elimination chart, row Chayce Beckham: Pl. 1, Finale (5/23) Winner; ratings table, episode 19 Grand Finale, May 23, 2021: “Chayce Beckham won the season on May 23, 2021”
  90. Chayce Beckham (Wikipedia revision 1376137684) — Wikipedia, updated September 22, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Lead: “winning the nineteenth season”
    • Labels: “label = {{hlist|[[BMG Rights Management|BMG]]|[[19 Recordings|19]]|[[BBR Music Group|Wheelhouse]]}}”
  91. 23 (Chayce Beckham song) (Wikipedia revision 1335281791) — Wikipedia, updated January 28, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Commercial performance: “reached number one on the Billboard Country Airplay chart dated April 6, 2024”
    • Certifications: “region=United States|artist=Chayce Beckham|title=23|award=Platinum|type=single|relyear=2021|certyear=2023”
  92. Bad for Me (Chayce Beckham album) (Wikipedia revision 1343466501) — Wikipedia, updated March 14, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Lead: “It was released on April 5, 2024, via Wheelhouse.”
  93. Apple album search for Chayce Beckham — Apple. Release database. Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Old Fashioned - EP: "collectionName":"Old Fashioned - EP"
    • Old Fashioned - EP: "releaseDate":"2026-09-25T07:00:00Z"
  94. American Idol season 20 — Wikipedia, updated December 31, 2025. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Lead section; Top 3 – Finale (May 22) table; Elimination chart, row Noah Thompson: Pl. 1, Finale (5/22) Winner; ratings table, episode 20 Grand Finale, May 22, 2022: “Noah Thompson won the season on May 22, 2022.”
  95. Noah Thompson — Wikipedia, updated August 24, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 7, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • American Idol section: “Thompson won the twentieth season of American Idol on May 22, 2022.”
    • Extended plays table, Middle of God Knows Where: “Released: June 9, 2023”
  96. American Idol Winner Gets Dropped by Record Label — Wide Open Country, published May 31, 2024. News report. Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Body: “Noah Thompson is no longer on our roster.”
  97. American Idol Winner Joins Forces With Luke Combs on the Heels of Label Breakup — American Songwriter, published July 4, 2024. News report. Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Body: “In a video posted to Instagram June 11, Thompson assured his followers he would continue his career as an independent artist.”
    • Body: “the very first song, "Front Door Famous," credits the season 20 American Idol winner as a songwriter”
  98. iTunes album lookup for artist 1623420824 — Apple. Release database. Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Upbringing lookup row: "releaseDate":"2024-08-23T07:00:00Z"
    • FIND EM IN A BAR lookup row: "releaseDate":"2025-09-12T07:00:00Z"
  99. American Idol season 21 — Wikipedia, updated July 21, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Lead section; Top 3 – Finale (May 21) table; Elimination chart, row Iam Tongi: Pl. 1, Finale (5/21) Winner; ratings table, episode 20 Season Finale, May 21, 2023: “Iam Tongi won the season on May 21, 2023”
  100. Iam Tongi — Wikipedia, updated May 17, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 7, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Lead sentence: “is an American singer who won [[American Idol (season 21)|season 21]]”
  101. Iam Tongi Releases Debut Full-Length Album Good For My Soul — Halo Entertainment Group, published March 13, 2026. Label or artist. Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Dateline March 13, 2026: “debut full-length album Good For My Soul via 19 Recordings, Inc.”
  102. iTunes Search API album results for Iam Tongi — Apple. Release database. Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Good For My Soul album result: "releaseDate":"2026-03-13T07:00:00Z"
  103. American Idol season 22 — Wikipedia, updated August 31, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Lead section; Top 3 and Top 2 – Finale (May 19) section and table; Elimination chart, row Abi Carter: Pl. 1, 5/19 Winner; ratings table, episode 18 Grand Finale, May 19, 2024: “Abi Carter won the season on May 19, 2024”
  104. Abi Carter (Wikipedia revision 1364756472) — Wikipedia, updated July 18, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (4)
    • Win: “On May 19, 2024, Carter became the season 22 winner”
    • Album: “On November 15, 2024, her debut album, "Ghosts In the Backyard", was released. It has 10 tracks.”
    • Deluxe: “That same day she released a deluxe edition”
    • Independent: “has not yet signed with a record label”
  105. Apple album search for Abi Carter — Apple. Release database. Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • ghosts in the backyard: "copyright":"℗ 2024 Ethos Music Group"
    • ghosts in the backyard: "trackCount":10
  106. American Idol season 23 — Wikipedia, updated April 10, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Lead section; Top 3 – Finale (May 18) table; Elimination chart, row Jamal Roberts: Pl. 1, 5/18 Winner; ratings table, episode 19 Grand Finale, May 18, 2025: “Jamal Roberts won the season on May 18, 2025”
  107. Jamal Roberts drops debut album The Journey — Rated R&B, published October 3, 2026. News report. Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Album: “his debut album, The Journey , via 19 Recordings/BMG”
    • Tour: “Roberts joined R&B icons Brandy and Monica on their co-headlining The Boy Is Mine Tour”
  108. Apple album search for Jamal Roberts — Apple. Release database. Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • The Journey: "releaseDate":"2026-10-02T07:00:00Z"
  109. Jamal Roberts artist page — Recording Academy. Official record. Retrieved October 8, 2026.
    Cited parts (4)
    • Nomination: “Best Gospel Performance/Song - Nominee Still (Live).”
    • Nomination: “68th Annual Grammy Awards”
    • 2026 row: “2026 Best Gospel Performance/Song”
    • Credited names: “Jonathan McReynolds, Jamal Roberts”
  110. American Idol season 24 — Wikipedia, updated July 18, 2026. Reference work (secondary). Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Lead section; Top 3 – Finale (May 11) section and table; Elimination chart, row Hannah Harper: Pl. 1, 5/11 Winner; ratings table, episode 16 Grand Finale, May 11, 2026: “Hannah Harper won the season on May 11, 2026”
  111. Hannah Harper offers 'Hold Your Horses' — The Music Universe, published September 4, 2026. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (2)
    • Article body: “Rising country singer-songwriter Hannah Harper drops her latest single, 'Hold Your Horses,' available everywhere now via 19 Recordings/Atlantic Outpost.”
    • Article body: “Harper and her family band, The Harper Family, are celebrating the release with a packed tour schedule that includes headline shows, select dates supporting Brad Paisley, and more.”
  112. Hannah Harper shares 'Married Into This Town' — The Music Universe, published July 10, 2026. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article body: “Rising country singer-songwriter Hannah Harper drops her eagerly awaited new single, 'Married Into This Town,' available everywhere now via 19 Recordings/Atlantic Outpost.”
  113. Hannah Harper Signs With WME For Worldwide Representation — Booking Agent Info, published June 24, 2026. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article body: “She'll join Brad Paisley's Live 2026 Tour and Lauren Alaina's The Stages Tour this fall.”
  114. 'American Idol' Winner Hannah Harper Sets Grand Ole Opry Debut and String Cheese Tour — Country Now, published May 19, 2026. News report. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
    Cited parts (1)
    • Article body: “String Cheese Tour, which kicks off with her Opry performance and runs through November 14”