Archuleta & Cook Showdown on American Idol Finale

What happens when a squeaky clean balladeer and a rocker with a receding hairline are put together? The final two of American Idol, that's what! David Archuleta and David Cook will battle it out for title! Cook and Archuleta beat put all the competition to shame. No it is time for a dual. The two David's stood out from the crowd from the beginning.

Both of them share an amazing amount of talent. Cook has a fantastic rock voice and unique vocal style. David Cook passionately performed rock-inspired versions of classic pop songs like Always be my Baby and Hello. Archuleta has the classic big pop voice. David Archuleta uses his gift to perform classic pop ballads. He wows the crowd. His performance of John Lennon's Imagine was one of the many highlights of the season.

Pop stars need more than talent these days though. Something has to stand out. Physical appeal and stage presence may come into play. Both men really come alive on the stage. Cook's performances are more energetic, while Archuleta's vocals shine. Cook has a quite an edge on stage presence. Watching David Archuleta in concert for two hours would be unbearable.

Women have loved both Davids this season. Cook might have the edge in terms of physical appeal. He has the classic rock pout and "smoldering eyes" pose! Archuleta, on the other hand, is goofy and awkward. He might stun the whole world and become a heart throb.

Both have potential to sell a ton of records! Cook will probably tap into the rock audience. His voice will be heard on top 40 radio in no time. He can make any song sound relevant and hip. Cook might give Idol alumni, Chris Daughtry, some competition. If the right record is made, millions of albums can be sold. The same can be said for Archuleta. The big-voiced teenager will probably make some terrible pop record with sappy songs about inspiration and love, but it will still sale. There is no telling who will benefit most from winning American Idol. Cook is going to sell records regardless. Archuleta has a pretty loyal fan base as well.

Both have a shot at fame; however David Cook has the best shot at longevity. He will be a real artist. He is a singer-songwriter who knows what kind of music he wants to make. Archuleta's popularity could easily sink when his young fans grow up. There really isn't a market for his music style either; just take a look at Clay Aiken. The market for American Idol artists may not be as big as it use to be either. Last year's winner, Jordin Sparks hasn't sold as many records as expected, and Kelly Clarkson's third LP was a flop. An unstable music industry doesn't help either.

There is an element of uncertainty this year. Intangible factors will play a major role. Media cover and publicity will play a role. Archuleta can be hurt if his father keeps acting like Joe Jackson! Simon's comments will have some clout as well.

David Archuleta will be declared the winner of American Idol! The odds are just in his favor. He has the loyal fan base of tweens, along with talent. Archuleta has been consistent week after week. The only thing in Cook's favor is the negative publicity Archuleta's stage dad has been getting lately. Unfortunately this isn't just a singing competition.