American Idol Contestants: Who Made It

American Idol has turned regular people into superstars who have singing talent, a little luck, and millions of people rooting them on during the finals. The lasting impression that American Idol has left on the music world is indelible with award winners, multiple platinum records, and several artists making it big. Here are some of Idol's best and what they are up to now.

Kelly Clarkson is arguably the most recognizable figure of the success of American Idol. The first season winner has garnered critical acclaim, Grammy Awards, and top selling albums. Currently Clarkson is wrapping an American tour and then heading to Europe in February to promote her albums with concert dates in England and mainland Europe before heading to Australia.

Carrie Underwood is another huge success story of American Idol. A girl from small town middle America, Underwood, like Kelly Clarkson, has won awards and made oodles of money. Carrie Underwood embarks on a tour of the United States in March to promote her album Play On.

Adam Lambert is the controversial new poster child for American Idol runners up as his performance and subsequent on stage kiss of a male performer have made him newsworthy as his new album has just been released. He is currently hitting television talk shows hard talking about his life and antics including interviews with Barbara Walters and appearances on the View and Conan O'Brien.

Jordin Sparks has been guest starring on several television shows and just wrapped a tour in September. Her soulful songs and performances are being included with the National Christmas Tree lighting in Washington, D.C. and a Super Bowl appearance.

Clay Aiken is another American Idol runner up who has been doing well. He has sold more than six million albums and has written a bestselling memoir. He has toured nine times and is currently taking a break, surely to spend time with his son.

Fantasia Barrino, like Clay Aiken, also has a bestselling autobiography and multiple albums. Barrino was recently nominated for an American Music Award.

David Archuleta has been hitting guest spots on television shows for teens and kids such as Hannah Montana. Archuleta is busy with his Christmas album and is touring smaller venues from coast to coast. He is one of the younger competitors from American Idol who have done well at only age nineteen, and he finished second in American Idol balloting at age sixteen.

David Cook and his gruff look endears his debut album and touring smaller venues across the country. The most recent winner of American Idol hasn't quite hit the limelight yet as his humble attitude towards the competition belies someone who is still catching up to his own fame.

Kris Allen's debut album just hit stores in time for Christmas. Kris Allen is currently going through a touring and performing schedule with other Idol stars including a Valentine's Day contest entitled Ryan, Rock My Town.

Justin Guarini came in second place behind Kelly Clarkson on American Idol's first season. He has a new tracks out included in his release called Revolve. While not as wildly popular as other contestants, Justin Guarini is holding his own with his career.