It was the season of Ruben Studdard and Clay Aiken.  Even back during the competition, I just could not decide.  I loved them both so much for two entirely different reasons.  Ruben had a smooth style and teddy bear-like quality that made him so lovable during performances like “Music of My Heart” but then Clay brought so much skill and growth to songs like “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” 

I couldn’t wait to find out who won and then the day of the final performances, I went into labor.  It was high-risk so I was in a special unit with no television for days.  Naturally, having just had a preemie, I wasn’t even thinking about Idol so, I ended up finding out by chance when some nurses were chatting in my room.  What an experience!

Here’s a Top 5 medley featuring Ruben, Clay, Kimberley Locke, Trenyce and Joshua Gracin to help bring back the memories! 

Check out the Top 10.  Who did you like best?

1. Ruben Studdard –Winner
2. Clay Aiken – Runner-up May 21, 2003
3. Kimberley Locke – Eliminated May 14
4. Josh Gracin – Eliminated May 7
5. Trenyce – Eliminated April 30
6. Carmen Rasmusen – Eliminated April 23
7. Kimberly Caldwell – Eliminated April 16
8. Rickey Smith – Eliminated April 9
9. Corey Clark – Disqualified April 2
10. Julia DeMato – Eliminated March 26

image: Newscom

Post from: Idol Stalker