Noop-Dogg Makes History on American Idol as a Top 13 Contestant

The changes made during Season 8 of American Idol never cease. With an abundance of talent in the top 36 contestants, the judges were unable to narrow the contestants down to a Top 12. On the night of the wildcard performances for the remaining three spots in the traditional Top 12, the judges made a decision not to just have 12 finalists, but instead, to have 13.

The Nooper Troopers cried out and the judges heard loud and clear-America loves Anoop Desai. Desai, aka "Noop-Dogg," became the first contestant in American Idol history to become a top 13 finalist. For weeks, since the revelation of the first three contestants to make it to the top 12 (and Desai fell short by just 20,000 votes), Noop-Dogg's ever-growing population of fans have been urging judges to place the talented crooner in the top 12 via the wildcard process. The websites, blogs, and impromptu fan clubs-not to mention the constant entertainment, charm, and talent of Anoop-were enough to convince Randy, Kara, Paula, and Simon to make this dream happen.

On the night of the wildcard performances, Noop-Dogg gave a stunning performance, getting the audience-and judges-dancing on their feet by performing Bobby Brown's hit, "My Prerogative." Idol judge Paula Abdul had consistently criticized contestants for performing the same songs sung during the grueling "Hollywood Week" on the night of their television performances to the public, however, that was before Anoop. Even though Desai's song of choice was indeed a repeat from Hollywood week, the judges praised him for his performance and exclaimed that he sang the song better during the wildcard performance than during Hollywood Week.

Fans of Anoop Desai are convinced that he will continue to wow America. First, Slum Dog Millionaire wins a slew of awards. Now, Anoop Desai just may become the next American Idol.