Decade in Review: Favorite Reality TV
2. American Idol (debuted June 2002)
Sure, there had been televised talent shows before but never one on the level of American Idol. Putting Star Search to shame, the entertainment industry got a major platform for launching the careers of innumerable young wannabe singers (and even spawning a god-awful movie), all the while keeping viewers hooked with the promise that they were ones deciding who won and went home. And while we initially tuned in to see former pop star Paula Abdul (before we knew just how crazy she was), the real draw turned out to be Simon Cowell. Never had we seen such an abrasive judge laying out harsh criticism to the tuneless masses like this, which of course made his faint praise of actually worthy contestants much more believable. And if it wasn’t for Idol, Ryan Seacrest would be a local radio DJ instead of the multi-millionaire Dick Clark for the new millennium that he became. Oh, if only…
Best Contestant: Clay Aiken (Season 2). He may not have won (and we’d still like a recount on that Ruben Studdard victory), and he may not have been as flashy or flamboyant as Adam Lambert, but this nerdy, bespectacled redhead showed the world that talent comes in many unlikely packages long before Susan Boyle.
Possibly Related Posts:
- Kris Allen Covers When Doves Cry
- Dee Snider “Ain’t Gonna Take It’
- Clay Aiken Will Compete on Celebrity Apprentice
- Scotty McCreery Beats Everyone Since Season 7
- About Face!
I know I’m starting to be a pest, but I just came across a website that very honestly polls fans to rate every contestant of every year on AI, and I am going to try to post it. I just LOVE the latest results:
Best American Idol Contestants of All Time
http://www.idolrankings.com/AllTime.cfm
If you can’t click on it, just scan and paste into your browser. If you are a Clay fan like me, you’re going to LOVE it.
deyabird
March 8th, 2010 at 8:27 am
Thanks for posting the links to those videos, Bucky. I haven’t seen them in a long time.
Clay is the best contestant AI ever had, hands down. deyabird(Quote)
You are quite welcome, and it was MY pleasure. He’s still the BEST talent to ever grace the AI stage, and I can’t wait for his upcoming tour with Ruben. GO CLAY!!
Thanks for posting the links to those videos, Bucky. I haven’t seen them in a long time.
Clay is the best contestant AI ever had, hands down.
Clay will always be the #1 Idol for me. His voice is just stupendous, and he has a super personality, especially on stage, where he shines.
There are others with great vocals, like Adam, Melinda, Carrie, etc., but Clay came out of nowhere, and we watched him change his entire look right before our eyes. It was pure fun.
Think his PBS Special and new cd will be wonderful, and that’s enough for me. His political beliefs are not mine, but I am here for his music, and have no interest in his personal life.
Bucky – thanks for those links. It was so much fun to revisit those wonderful performances. No one can capture an audience the way he can. I can hardly wait for his new CD.
When American Idol 3 was hurting for some excitement, they brought Clay on TWICE during that season to boost their ratings. Once he did a rendition of “Fantasy” with the current lady contestants as backups, and earlier the same season, he was a guest performer doing his fantastic rendition of “Solitaire”. When he did it during AI2, Neil Sedaka declared it to be “forever a Clay Aiken song”, because his performance was the most superb he’d ever heard. Just in case my “captors” catch up and cut me off again, here’s the URL’s to both of these outstanding performances:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaCrTTJU2lw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=05CgbwjrbTk&NR=1
Thanks again MJ for helping Clayn get his well deserved credit. Hope this goes through.
(Quote)
Couldn’t have said it better myself. Kudos to you!
To Pat and Me,
Well said. Clay once said “you can’t make everybody like you”. You apprciate your friends for who they are, not who you want them to be. I like Clay for who he is, the rest is his business.
To Pat and Me,
Well said. Clay once said “you can’t make everybody like you”. You apprciate your friends for who there are, not who you want them to be. I like Clay for who he is, the rest is his business.
Alison,
I m so tired of people saying Clay doesnt appericate his fans! Clay has always stated how much he cares about his fans..Just because he didnt come on and say Merry Christmas doesnt mean he doesnt care…I think Clay is the only celebrity that opens up as much as he does to his fans..And if you feel that way…thats on you not on him!!
Oh and for his “outspoken” political views..What he shouldnt be aloud to voice what he believes in? He has every right to voice his opinions..just like every other human begin does…and specially when it was on private site!
Whats so weird about his personal life? Is it weird because you dont have the right to know anything about it? And thats pissing you off! There is wayyyyy to much entitlement in Clays fans base…Some fans think they should know everything he is doing when he is doing it and where he is doing it..And that just not right!
Or they think Clay should blog when they want him too and what they want him to blog about! And they are not happy ever…So it doesnt matter what he does..He could save the world and some fans would be pissed that he didnt do it the way they wanted him to or he didnt do it fast enough for them..Some say all they wanted was a Merry Christmas from him…But we all know if he did come and say that…they would be pissed because he didnt blog more about his new CD or something else..It never fails..He cant win for nothing..
Clay has always been Clay..He has not changed and isnt going to…So fans have to realize they arent going to change him..And thats good..because I wouldnt want him to change just to make a few people happy! And those people dont like that then they should move on! You cant make everyone happy all the time..but some people are NEVER happy specially when it comes to Clay Aiken!
Well I dont know about anyone else..but am sooooo exctied that its finally 2010 I cant wait to hear about his new CD!!!!!!I think this is going to be a good yr for our man!!! Cant wait to get “sick” of seeing him this yr!! How much fun is that going to be!! LOVE YA CLAY!!
There is not a thing controversial about Clay Aiken. He’s still just as normal and extraordinarily talented as he was when he was on AI.
The media, and even some fans, may think it’s their right to know everything about him, but his personal life is just that – his personal life, and it’s not more ‘weird’ than anyone elses, contrary to certain lies the tabloid media and certain nefarious bloggers would lead one to think.
I see no ‘disdain’ for his fans, he’s probably more open to his fans than a lot of other celebrities. Just because he doesn’t blog his every waking moment, does not mean that he does not care about the fans who support him.
I don’t support him based on whether he ‘talks’ to me or not, and I think is truly unrealistic if someone withdraws their support because he doesn’t meet their expectations of what they think he should do. I support him because I like his voice, enjoy his concerts, and agree with a lot of his causes.
As for his ‘outspoken’ political views – good for him for speaking up. Whether one agrees with him or not, he’s not afraid to tell it like he sees it and I applaud him for trying to bring awareness to a whole plethora of issues.
Clay really was the best contestant on AI. He and Susan Boyle (from AGT) exemplified the dream–a normal person with extraordinary talent being given a shot and coming through. Kudos to TWOP for getting this one right.
Clay has been controversial since day one, and continues to be, given his life style choices and reluctance to communicate with his fans. His image needs work, and he seems so unwilling to put any effort into improving it–even little things like a blog wishing his remaining fans a Merry Christmas. I was a fan, but no more. Sure, he can sing, but his weird personal life, his outspoken political views, and disdain for the fans that helped him have a career and a “voice” to effect social changed have turned me off.
Thank God someone got it right!! Clay is a man with kick butt talent and a heart as wide as the ocean.. And as hard as they may try AI will never find anyone like him!!! Idol found:game over!!!!
Clay has done some phenominal stuff, but it still tickles me that he was the HIGHLIGHT of the show on American Idol Five, and this Montage with the radio announcers discussing him stealing the show the night before is just PRECIOUS. If you can’t click on it, just “copy and paste” it into your browser (It’s really WORTH it; and so is he). You’ll LOVE it; I promise.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gxV-_qadO1I
Simon said in his book “Clay Aiken is The Best Thing to ever Happen to American Idol”. It was true then, and remains true still. I doubt they will ever find another talent/philanthropist even close. Clay said that was his primary goal in trying to win the title, and even though he didn’t win, he’s more than kept that promise. He is TRULY THE AMERICAN IDOL FOR ALL TIME. God bless him, he deserves this recognition and much more. GO CLAY!!
Was there any doubt that Clay is the #1 AI contestant?
Karma,
You really said it all and said it very well! I am happy that TWOP got it right. Clay truly represents what Idol was originally about. He is not only talented, but is genuine and down to earth, and he has kept his word to use his celebrity to help others. He is a true humanitarian.
I think that these Idol contestants, winners or non-winners have been successful in their own way.
I’m drawn to Clay Aiken because of what he does with his celebrity, a humanitarian in the truest sense of the word. Of course, he is not the only celebrity who does charity, but he does it most of the time behind the lense, quietly and genuinely. If Clay Aiken is their pick, let us accept it and hope that the idol you like will get picked next time. Clay Aiken is not a bad person, he is not perfect but I think he is a wonderful human being, and this endears him most to his fans. Kudos to all the Idol contestants!
To Clay Aiken, be the best that you can! You have my support!
TWoP got it exactly right!!!! Clay Aiken was the last AI contestant who personified what the AI program was supposed to represent!!! i.e. the unknown singer being given the opportunity to be heard on a national platform!!
He has gone on to multiple sold-out tours, multi-million dollar CD sales, & a very successful run on Broadway, starring in SPAMALOT! His Fans are devoted & dedicated! Just try entering his name in a search engine!!!
In addition, he has co-sponsored the founding of the National inclusion Project (formerly the Bubel/Aiken Foundation), dedicated to the inclusion of mentally/physically children with non-challenged children, to the betterment of both!
The best thing is it wasn’t his fans who put him in first place by voting their fingers off in a poll!
Most of Clay’s fans refuse to vote in any poll that pits one American Idol against another. Once the season ends, the competition is over. It’s up to the artist at that point to establish their own career.
Clay deserves to be # one. No gimmicks just pure charm and talent.
Wow, TWOP is so right on. My whole office was just talking the other day about how Idol hasn’t been the same since the Ruben/Clay season in terms of fan excitement, little guy coming from behind, kids next door becoming huge stars, etc. Sure, Carrie, Kelly, Jennifer, Chris & others have had their levels of success, but Clay was the first “Susan Boyle” & Idol has never been able to come up with another one yet so far. Adam stood out this year because he’s been a professional singer & actor for years. My personal opinion is that he was a ringer & all along they tried their best to make him a star (still are, frankly). But his album & single sales tell a different story. The media seems to love him, but the public? Not so much.
clay aiken is awesome and his voice is so distinctive. I would know it anywhere.
Barb since you havent seen Clay until AI rewind..and you didnt like his performance and thought they were boring..Then why would buy his albums..I assuming you have his Albums since you think they are boring? And if releasing an Album and being on broadway for a yr isnt doing anything for 5 yrs..then I guess he hasnt..Maybe you should get you facts straight before you comment..I dont understand the comment by Sara either…Why does he have work on his image? He is probably one of the most down to earth person out there..And he gives a shit about his career if he didnt he wouldnt have signed with another label and he wouldnt be making another album..
Its about time someone got it right for once! There will never be another Clay Aiken..He is the best out there..I cant wait until his new cd! Bring on 2010!!!!!!!!
Clay Aiken is AWESOME!!!
I agree with KARMA, she or he said it all. Clay has that once in a lifetime voice, that is just amazing and faultless. Lots of good singers around but his voice is special.Just wish he had , just a fraction of the publicity that Susan Boyle has had.
It’s nice to see that other people including TwoP agree on Clay being the #1 AI contestant, besides his fans. It proves we are so right. The Claymania seen after Season 2 has not been seen again, not even this year in spite of all the efforts made.
Barb your avi says it all too me. You need to do research if you think Clay has done nothing in the last 5 years.
Seems like some people are having that reading comprehension problem yet again. This is for the best AI CONTESTANT, not the most successful American Idol.
Clay Aiken is what American Idol started out about – ordinary people getting a shot at stardom. It is now professionals trying to gain a fan base, which is why I no longer watch it and only see contestants when someone tells me “you have GOT to see this” and then I say something like “Is American Idol allowing people to kill cats on stage now??? Dear Lord!!” (sorry, I digress, that that’s a whole other story)
Both Clay and Susan Boyle are the American dream. People, just like them, who transform right before their eyes.
Now, as for Clay not being successful, you are wrong. He was just awarded the RIAA plaque for 6M CD sales on a worldwide basis (not bad for someone who isn’t even promoted overseas and gets zero radio play). I could continue, but it’s really not worth it. If you don’t like his music that’s fine – music is subjective and everyone has their own likes & dislikes. But please don’t say he’s not successful because that is completely untrue.
Marla – you obviously don’t read tabloids or tabloid like sites (including some other Idol blogs). Clay’s “image problem” is a fabrication perpetrated by the “media” (ie tabloids and blogs that ACT like tabloids). He’s just fine, does a lot of wonderful things without a ton of accolades, because it’s the right thing to do.
Glad to see Television Without Pity chose the right Idol to highlight. Clay Aiken is, by far, the best contestant that they’ve ever had because he 100% represents what AI started out as and when it was its most successful.
clay aiken isthe best. he has the best voice. his concerts are fabulous. he should have won american idol in season II.
I love Clay Aiken. No other American Idol contestant has excited me with their musicianship and musical abilities like Clay Aiken has. Clay Aiken is and will always be my favorite American Idol contestant. The memories of Clay Aiken touch my heart, and I hope Clay Aiken will gain tons of music success in the new year and in years after that and will become the most successful American Idol contestant of all time. Clay Aiken deserves it.
Love Clay. He’s my favorite contestant of all time too. Can’t wait for his new cd to come out this year!
One cannot really say that Clay has done nothing in five years. He has sold millions of albums, has had several sold out tours, his own successful Christmas special and a successful run on Broadway.
When Adam has accomplished as much in the same span of time, then come back and talk about it.
Clay has the best voice ever that has come out of Idol. As for his image, he’s one sexy dude. Love him.
Sara, I don’t know what you mean when you said he needs to work on his image? I think his image is very clean even though haters are always trying to find something dirty without any success; if you are referring to his physical appearance, he looks mighty fine!
If Twop gave him a # 1 spot, that’s a big deal!
What Isabelle said!
Couldn’t agree more! Clay Aiken is #1.
Congrats on getting this one right on! Clay deserves the top spot and hopefully next year, he’ll be right back on top with his new recording. Decca/Universal knows how to promote their artists and I have no doubt they will do the same for Clay. I feel a second Clay wave coming on. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, or Merry Whatever you are celebrating.
Sorry I disagree. I didn’t see season 2 until American Idol Rewind. Had heard so much about Clay. He has a nice voice but his performances were boring. His cds that he released were and still are boring (except for the Christmas one). He hasn’t done anything in 5 years. How could he make number 1
You answered your own question.You don’t know anything about him so you don’t understand.
My goodness, Barb, you should do your homework before commenting. You may not like his type of music but many others do. I’m not sure where you get the five year number, but Clay was active till his run on Broadway in Spamalot ended in January 2009, I believe. Yes, the man is multi-talented and keeps his fingers in many pies. He is currently recording his new cd to be released in 2010 and with his new label, he just might get the promo he has been missing for so many years.
So, on to the subject at hand. Yes, Clay certainly has earned the Idol of the Decade tag. He was a kid who came out of nowhere and was vaulted into fame because of his talent and his persona. He’s one of the good guys and I miss seeing the “fresh” talent on the show.
Clay definitely deserves that #1 spot. In my opinion, American Idol has just never been that exciting since.
I agree after all these seasons,
Clay Aiken is probably the most talented. I’m not understanding that comment about his image. I haven’t followed him like many have but I don’t see anything wrong with his image, unless someone has a problem with him coming out. He seems to be the same nice guy he was on the show and he is quite successful isn’t he? My cousin saw him in Spamalot and said he was the star of the show and the crowd was so deep at the stage door she couldn’t get an autograph. She goes to lots of B’way shows and she seldom sees that. I also heard he started a charity for kids and that he works with UNICEF. So please, explain to me what is wrong with this dudes image? I’m serious because I’m clueless on that one and would like to know what you meant by that Sara.
Sara, ya gotta quit reading tabloids and sleazy gossip sites. They mess with your head.
I never expected to see TWoP rank Clay as the #1 contestant – sweet.
sara, now that he’s not with RCA, he’s comfortable in the business, he’s comfortable in his own life, and he’s weathered the serious bullshit thrown his way, I think he has the freedom,or as much freedom that comes with being signed to a major label,to do what he’d like to have done before. I’m not disappointed in his image because he’s a good man, walks the talk, and he’s amazingly talented. Musically, he’s much more diverse than he’s been allowed to display. Seen it myself live. So, for me, the new Decca deal, the new cd, his new freedom, all mean “it’s all good” for me.
Peace!
Clay was a great contestant, but a disappointment after that. He needs to work on his image (and music!), or maybe he just doesn’t give a s***.
Thats because they know what they are talking about lol..Finally someone that gets it right..There will never be another Clay Aiken..Idol can keep trying to find him..but its never going to happen!
Wow! That’s great that TWOP ranks Clay as the best AI contestant. That is a hard sell site, and to have them rank Clay as #1 is pretty impressive.