American Idol History: Top Eight Performances Over Seven Years

American Idol has consistently produced the best and most talented young artists in America. It is inspiring to see these artists rise to stardom when just weeks or months before they were unknown to all of America.

I have made a list of the best performances on American Idol below. These are the ones that stand out clearly in my mind. I did venture onto American Idol's website to review the previous contestants, however, I was shocked to find that I could not recall over half of the artists! I suppose what Simon says about being "forgettable" does ring true.

I currently have 8 performances that I believe to be the best performances in American Idol history. I have listed them in order of season; from the current season to the first season.

"Imagine" by David Archuleta

David Archuleta is a Top 12 contestant of the current season of American Idol. His performance of "Imagine" was called the best performance of all the seasons by all three judges.

"A Broken Wing" by Jordin Sparks

Jordin Sparks was the winner of the sixth season of American Idol. At the age of 17, she was acclaimed as the youngest winner in American Idol history. I was blown away by her performance of "A Broken Wing" and was convinced that she would win, hands down. (Source: Wikipedia)

"Funny Valentine" by Melinda Doolittle

Melinda Doolittle made it into the Top 3 on American Idol's Season 6. Her "My Funny Valentine" performance blew the judges away and ranked #3 on AOL's Top 20 Idol Performances. (Source: Wikipedia)

"Over the Rainbow" by Katharine McPhee

Katharine McPhee was the runner-up in Season 5 of American Idol. Her performance of "Over the Rainbow" was absolutely beautiful and consistently praised by all three judges.

"Hemorrhage (In My Hands)" by Chris Daughtry

Chris Daughtry appeared in Season 5 of American Idol and has become very popular in the rock genre. I almost stopped watching Idol when Chris Daughtry was kicked off; I loved all of his performances. "Hemorrhage" stands out in my mind as his best performance and was praised by all three judges as well.

"Bless the Broken Road" by Carrie Underwood

Carrie Underwood was the winner of Season 4 and has continued her success as a country music artist. I was particularly blown away by her Rascal Flatts rendition of "Bless the Broken Road." Not only do I love the song, but I found a renewed interest in the song when it was performed by a woman.

"Circle of Life" by Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson appeared on Season 3 of American Idol and received the highest number of votes after this Top 9 performance. (Source: Wikipedia) Jennifer Hudson has continued her success as a musical artist and as an actress.

"A Moment Like This" by Kelly Clarkson

Kelly Clarkson was the first season winner of American Idol. To date, this is perhaps by favorite performance by any American Idol contestant. I was awestruck by thought of the reality television show and being able to hear new artists sing to their hearts content. Kelly Clarkson has continued to do well for herself as a musician and is currently working on her fourth album. (Source: Wikipedia)