There are so many successful artists that came from ‘American Idol.’ I think it’s so crazy to see how many success stories have come out of shows like Idol, X Factor, The Voice, etc. I love seeing these artists have their talent recognized because they truly deserve it. Restricting this list to only 7 was pretty tough, but take a look at some very successful artists that came from American Idol. Tell me if you agree!
1 Phillip Phillips
I’ll be honest, Phillip Phillips is all my time favorite AI alum. He’s already proven to be one of the most successful artists that came from ‘American Idol.’ His first single, “Home,” was the best selling AI winner debut song in history. Impressive, huh? His first album, The World From The Side of the Moon, has been certified gold. I think I loved Phillip so much because he was considered the underdog but America voted him to number one. He’s an amazing singer/songwriter.
Frequently asked questions
2 Kelly Clarkson
Clarkson set the bar for all other contestants after winning AI’s very first season. All of her studio albums have gone platinum and she’s even won two Grammy Awards! The singer also won three MTV VMA Awards, four AMAs, and 13 Billboard Music Awards. Wow, talk about impressive. She has one of the best voices in the industry right now and has always stayed true to her sound, which I admire. You can’t name successful AI artists without mentioning Kelly Clarkson!
3 Jordin Sparks
Jordin Sparks set the record for the youngest AI winner when she won the sixth season at the age of 17. Can you imagine doing that at that age? Her first album went platinum and it included her smash hit, “No Air.” She’s been on Broadway and even made her film debut alongside the legendary Whitney Houston in 2012’s Sparkle. She’s released two fragrances already and is dating the ever so handsome Jason Derulo. She’s been working on new music and I’m so excited to hear it! I’ll always be a fan of her incredible talent.
4 Scotty McCreery
This country cutie won season ten. His soulful voice has sold millions of album already! His first record, Clear as Day, went platinum in 2011 and his holiday album (released last year) has been certified gold. He’s only 20 years old and has accomplished so much already! He’s even announced a tour recently where he’ll hit multiple cities. I’ll definitely be making it to his See You Tonight tour!
5 Katharine McPhee
This girl has an incredible voice. She finished second on AI’s fifth season, but still went to on to be super successful. She’s released three albums already! She’s even dipped her feet in the acting pool (where I think she shines). She landed a role alongside Anna Faris in the 2008 comedy, House Bunny. Most recently, she starred on NBC’s musical drama, Smash. That series really became my favorite show and I was so bummed when I found out it had been canceled after only two seasons.
6 Carrie Underwood
Carrie was the first country singer to win Idol. The season 4 winner has sold more than 15 million albums, rocked the charts with 16 No. 1 singles, holds five Grammys and five Country Music Association Awards. She paved the way for other country artists to win shows like this! She’s amazing and her success is still growing!
7 Jennifer Hudson
Hudson came in seventh place during the third season. It makes no sense, I know. She has one of the most amazing vocals and is the only Idol to have ever won an Oscar (for her role in Dreamgirls). She also has a Golden Globe, SAG Award, and Grammy to her name. She’s racked up an incredible list of accomplishments. She looks fantastic and I’m sure she’ll take over the world one day! Team JHud!
That sums up my list for successful artists that came from American Idol. Don’t get me wrong, every top 10 contestant on every season was great. These are just my favorite AI alums that have gone on to have some note-worthy careers. Who’s your favorite AI contestant?
