Taylor Hicks Is Crowned Next American Idol

You were right. In our American Idol poll, Rolling Stone readers predicted Taylor Hicks would win the fifth season of the runaway hit show by a wide margin. As one reader wrote of the twenty-nine-year-old Birmingham, Alabama, native, "Taylor has the Personality. Go, Taylor!"

That said, there was less than unanimity on our Idol message board. One reader weighed in: "Taylor bothers me . . . a lot. There is a line between fun/entertaining and just plain crazy, and I think Taylor is getting closer and closer to crazy line every time I see him." Another made a strong argument for Hicks? competition, Katharine McPhee: "She can really belt 'em out."

Both finalists will release a single of their performance from Tuesday's episode, McPhee's rendition of "My Destiny" and Hicks' "Do I Make You Proud." Hicks will now receive a recording contract with RCA.

Add your own thoughts or browse more opinion at our American Idol message board.

For more information on this season and past winners and losers, check out our complete coverage.

Below is a selection of our top Idol articles:

• Idol Worship
  An inside look at the pop-culture phenomenon, and Simon Cowell, the most hated and loved man on TV
• American Idol Rejects Speak
  Some cry. Some go shopping. Most want to sing again
• Kelly Clarkson Surprises at Grammys
  Pop singer becomes first American Idol to win industry's biggest prize
• Randy Jackson Feels Idol
  The judge dishes from his seat on "the best talent show ever"
• Clay Aiken Spreads Joy
  Crooner launches holiday tour, readies next record
• Bo Bice Is Free as a Bird
  Rocker didn't win American Idol, and he's happy about it

And here are a few slide shows:

• Kelly Clarkson and more
• Christina Christian, Tamyra Gray, Ryan Starr and more
• Tamyra Gray and more
• Trenyce and more