“American Idol” is definitive 21st century programming: It's a reality competition that hinges on audience participation and gigantic personalities. Luckily, the true core of the show is timeless: musical performances of songs new and old that prove nothing is more exhilarating than raw talent.
Since we just learned that “American Idol” will be ending after its 15th season, we're doing our first countdown of the show's great moments. Today, we pick the 10 “American Idol” contestants who deserve to be way more famous. From soulsters to rock gods, these ten have proven that a glorified karaoke competition can be a fabulous forum to show off a genuine gift.