David Cook Declared New American Idol

With world record-breaking voting results, David Cook was named 2008's American Idol tonight. Winning by 12 million votes over David Archuleta, Cook teared up as the news sunk in, leaving host Ryan Seacrest to comfort him as he regained his composure enough to sing.

It was an amazing season finale, with guest appearances by 2005 American Idol Carrie Underwood, 2007 American Idol Jordin Sparks, George Michael, Bryan Adams, Donna Summer, and Graham Nash to name a few. The Top 12 American Idol contestants also took the stage once more to help celebrate the two Davids successes.

There were several performances during the night, but two really stand out in my mind. David Archuleta sang 'Apologize' with One Republic, and he sounded beautiful. David Cook performed 'Sharp Dressed Man' with ZZ Top to perfection. He was so comfortable up on stage, surrounded by the classic musicians.

Speaking of fashion, all the Top 12 American Idol contestants, and especially David Cook and David Archuleta, were dressed to the nines tonight. There wasn't a single outfit I didn't like, although I worried about Carrie Underwood flashing her panties with some of the camera angles.

My Thoughts and Feelings about the Davids

In my article, 'Cook vs. Archuleta: A Closer Look at the 2008 American Idol Finalists', I know I predicted Cook to win, but I don't think I should have been so hard on David Archuleta. He really impressed me tonight with his flawless harmonies and grace on stage.

David Cook was rock solid tonight in his performances. He was suave and self-assured, and he was having fun.

Archuleta and Cook really seem to have a little brother / big brother relationship, and it was good to see that come out when David Cook was announced as the American Idol. I surprised myself by shedding a tear for David Archuleta when the announcement was made.

My Predictions for David Cook

David Cook will make it far as this year's American Idol. I really don't think he'll disappear like past winners Fantasia Barrino and Ruben Studdard. Actually, I predict David Cook will join the ranks with Carrie Underwood and the first American Idol, Kelly Clarkson, as one of the most successful American Idols in the history of the show.

David Cook's style is so similar to Chris Daughtry, who in my opinion is the most successful 'loser' from American Idol. Cook will have no trouble marketing his raspy voice and sex appeal on stage to make it huge in the music industry.

My Predictions for David Archuleta

David Archuleta is only 17 years old. He's got plenty of time to finely hone his craft, and as the runner-up, Archuleta will have plenty of record deal offers flying his way. Although I said all season I thought Archuleta would be better in a church choir setting, I think Archuleta will find his niche in the music industry.

American Idol judge Simon Cowell said it best tonight when Ryan Seacrest asked him for his final thoughts before the winner was announced. He said, "For the first time, I don't care who wins." Both Davids were great and will have huge success.