In January of 2020, a few weeks before the country was shut down due to Covid-19, Kelly Clarkson performed The White Stripes’ anthem ‘Seven Nation Army’ while backed by the USC Trojan marching band.

Listening to these incredible vocals makes me marvel at how, right out of the gate, American Idol managed to identify and elevate one of the nation’s greatest singers. The show did its job splendidly.

Browsing the list of winners from the subsequent 21 seasons makes it clear that Clarkson’s success wasn’t a foregone conclusion. Apart from Clarkson, the biggest stars are Carrie Underwood and Fantasia Barrino, with honorable mentions to Jordin Sparks and Phillip Phillips. I’ve never even heard the names of the last 11 winners.