As Jennifer Hudson Reflects On 'American Idol' 20 Years Later, Here Are the Show's Black Singers You Probably Forgot
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On Sunday (April 21), Jennifer Hudson took to X to express gratitude for her journey to superstardom since being eliminated from “American Idol” two decades ago.
“On this day in 2004, I was eliminated from American Idol! But God turned it around for my good! From Idol to EGOT baby !!! 20 years later, and now back on TV with my own show,” she wrote. “Just keep the faith, keep believing, and keep going !!!”
In honor of Hudson’s incredible journey, here are some of our favorite Black singers from “American Idol” who blew us away.
Fantasia
Fantasia won the third season of “American Idol” back in 2004. Since then, she’s won a Grammy, starred in “The Color Purple” on Broadway and the big screen, and toured around the world as a very well-dressed leading lady.
Jordin Sparks
Since “American Idol,” Sparks has had hits such as “Tattoo” and “No Air,” been on Broadway, and starred in 2012’s Sparkle alongside the late Whitney Houston. She is also a well known philanthropist.
Ruben Studdard
Studdard was the winner of the second season of American Idol. In 2014, he became the first celebrity contestant on “The Biggest Loser.” A few years ago, he received a Masters of Art degree from his alma mater, Alabama A&M University.
Frenchie Davis
Frenchie notoriously appeared on the second season of the show but was disqualified after topless photos of her as a 19 year-old emerged. She later appeared on The Voice in 2011 and has been an activist in the LGBTQIA+ community.
Candice Glover
Candice Glover was the winner of the 12thseason of “American Idol.” Her resilience speaks for itself: she is the first winner to audition for the show three times before being cast on the live shows. Her debut album, Music Speaks, was released back in 2014.
Tamyra Gray
Tamyra Gray came in fourth place on the first season of “American Idol” in 2002. After the show, she appeared in several television shows and movies. Gray’s first and only album, “The Dreamer,” was released in 2004.
Justin Guarini
Who could forget Justin Guarini? He was the runner-up on the first season of “American Idol.” He only released two studio albums and appeared in several television shows.
Kimberley Locke
Kimberely Locke appeared on the second season of “American Idol”and finished in third place. She has successfully entered the world of television, appearing on shows like “Celebrity Fit Club” and even dabbled in modeling.
Rayvon Owen
Rayvon Owen was in the 14th season of “American Idol” and received fourth place.. He recently released his first song and video, “Can’t Fight It,” where he opened up about his gay sexuality. Owen is also working an EP which he plans to release later this year.
Melinda Doolittle
Melinda was the third place finalist on the sixth season of “American Idol.” Since then, she has performed across the country, has appeared on several television shows and even wrote a memoir.
