Yesterday was the anniversary of the Season 2 Finale of American Idol.  It is hard to realize that it has been 16 years since that fateful night.

To me, there were two winners on the finale night in 2003.

Both Clay Aiken and Ruben Studdard were amazing and ready to Reach for the Stars.

Let’s have a toast to the show that introduced Clay Aiken to the  world!!

With three performances each, Clay Aiken and Ruben Studdard showed the world their singing prowess on the Finale of American Idol, Season II.  The competition, held on May 20, 2003 was the last chance to swing the final votes over to their side. Their performances blew the roof off the place.

On the finale night, Ryan Seacrest started the show by stating that it started with 70,000 contestants and came down to two southern boys who are the most unlikely people in the world to be there.  He also reminded the audience that they would have 3 hours to vote and how important the vote is this evening.

The final round of the night was amazing.  Singing Flying Without Wings, Ruben  delivered an outstanding performance.  The judges commented that it was the best performance of the night.

Clay then performed “Bridge Over Troubled Water” and did a tremendous job.  Accompanied by a choir, Clay knocked the song out of the park.  It left all three judges with big smiles on their faces.

The night produced beautiful performances and two very different vocal styles. Both performers left it all on the stage.

Finally, Ryan said “it’s the closest vote in American Idol history, the American Idol is…….Ruben Studdard.”

 The 2 winners that night were talented young men who were ready to step into the world of pop music.

And, as we all know, coming in second just didn’t matter.

I hope you enjoy the videos of Clay’s performances and then also watch the group numbers from the finale.

WOW!  So much talent!

OK, Clay!!!  We need 50 more years of your talent, singing, humor and compassion!

 I can’t wait to see the 20th Anniversary!