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American Idol - Latoya London 'All by Myself'

The other Latoya - a great singer and loves cats.

Poolparty's American Idol Countdown - Best Contestants of All Time

American Idol is back on the air on January 16 – our favorite TV guilty pleasure.
The show has anointed some real talent in the last five years. Here are some of our category winners.

Biggest Star: Kelly Clarkson

Best to have it happen early, season one’s winner remains the biggest star in the constellation.

Brightest Future: Fantasia Barrino

Fantasia is the real deal.
She just released an amazing cd and has greatness ahead.

Most Raw Potential: Carrie Underwood

The alien pods have sapped her spirit, but should she ever recover it, she could be the best thing since sliced bread.

Biggest Post-Idol Star Turn: Jennifer Hudson

We probably have the first American Idol alum to win an Oscar, for her flawless Dreamgirls performance.

Most Shocking Early Elimination: Latoya London

She goes by London now, and she is truly fabulous.
It is just a matter of time before the rest of the world catches up with her.

Most Incredible Talent: Clay Aiken

He has the rare talent of a generation.
However, he does not have an artistic vision and he has not managed to find it, either. Makeovers won’t help, neither will pissing off daytime sweetheart Kelly Ripa.

Success is the Best Revenge: Chris Daughtry

Chris was shocked by an early elimination, but he has had a no. 1 album to help ease the pain.

Most Versatile Talent: Tamyra Gray

A singer, songwriter and actress, if she keeps going she will make the breakthrough that American Idol didn’t afford.

Most Ill-Treated Super Talent: Frenchie Davis

Frenchie was amazing, and that they pulled her from the show for some topless photos is beyond ridiculous.
She will always have an audience in the way that talent does.

Least Ambitious Talent: Bo Bice

He was quoted in Rolling Stones as thinking, “please don’t let me win this thing.”
He would have been a better choice than Carrie Underwood, but he got his wish and success, too.

Largest Crushed Talent: Mandisa

Mandisa was a big girl with a big voice.
Simon suggested getting a bigger stage for her, but perhaps she found it.

Most Exciting Performances: Trenyce

Her rendition of ‘Proud Mary’ alone should have kept her in the running.

Youngest Talent with Years Ahead: Diana DeGarmo

She has yet to turn 20 and is already in a Broadway musical so she will probably be just fine despite leaving American Idol too soon.

American Idol: Mary Roach Audition

Crushing the hopes and dreams of tin-eared, delusional teens is a guaranteed ratings bonanza, but the evil eye will seek its own revenge.