LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WHAS11) – American Idol has been a staple in households across the country for the past 15 years.
The show has produced big names in music including Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood, both whom arguably the most successful winners from the franchise.
We’ve also seen winners Fantasia Barrino, Jordin Sparks and Taylor Hicks make their mark as well.
American Idol ran until 2016 on FOX and later picked up by ABC for a reboot which will begin airing on March 11.
As we get closer to the premiere date, we wanted to take a look back at some of the performances of past winners.
1. Kelly Clarkson - This was the performance that sealed the deal for Kelly's win against runner-up Justin Guarini in 2002. When she belted out the high note while performing Aretha Franklin's "Natural Woman", the audience was awe-struck.
2. Ruben Studdard - He was dubbed the "Velvet Teddy Bear" by legendary singer Gladys Knight. His smooth voice was calming and very reminiscent of the late Luther Vandross. He covered the Burt Bacharach and Hal David classic, "A House Is Not A Home" which Vandross also gave a soul-stirring rendition two decades earlier.
3. Fantasia Barrino - This season three American Idol winner didn't let circumstances stop her. Fantasia gave a marvelous rendition of Summertime, written by DuBose Heyward and Ira Gershwin. Her raspy, jazzy, soulful vocals won over all of the judges including Simon Cowell.
4. Carrie Underwood - She was one singer who didn't want to be placed in a box. Whatever judges threw at her song-wise, Carrie always came through. Since she was known for singing country, she wanted to hit the judges with a little rock n' roll. Carrie covered "Alone", a 1987 hit by the group Heart.
5. Taylor Hicks - Mr. "Soul Patrol" himself had a uniqueness about him that won the judges over. He had his ups and downs in the competition but always came through when the time calls. He did a rendition of the Billy Preston classic, You Are So Beautiful.
6. Jordin Sparks - This is one of Jordin's best performances from American Idol. She took You'll Never Walk Alone from a musical and made it her own. The powerful rendition is definitely spine-tingling.
7. David Cook - Not many people can cover Mariah Carey songs but David Cook actually took her classic, "Always Be My Baby", to new levels. Even Queen Mariah approved.
8. Kris Allen - He was one of the favorites that eventually won Season 8 of the competition. Kris' mentality throughout the show was to make something old current that would stick to the minds of those listening and watching. When he covered the Bill Withers classic, Ain't No Sunshine, he received praise across the board from judges.
9. Lee DeWyze - Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" is probably one of the most covered songs during the audition and competition phases of American Idol. Lee DeWyze rock-like vocals meshed with the soulful backing of a choir was a great combination and brought the house down.
10. Scotty McCreary - Scotty had unbelievable stage presence during Season 10 of the competition and his country twang made it even more special. He has that throwback, deep country voice that music lovers love. Check out his tune "Feelin' It".
11. Phillip Phillips - Not many modern hits get a twist on the American Idol stage but when they do, you better come with it! Phillip did a revamped version of Usher's 2001 hit, U Got It Bad. It's a unique rock-ish cover that's not to be slept on.
12. Candice Glover - Hands down this was probably one of the best moments in the history of the show. Candice has one of those voices where she could sing anything and it would be amazing. During the finale of Season 12 of the competition, Candice and American Idol alum and Academy Award Winner-Jennifer Hudson brought the house down singing the Natalie Cole classic, "Inseparable". The moment was so good they had judges Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj and Randy Jackson giving praise throughout the performance.
13. Caleb Johnson - Now we know Adele is one of the greatest vocalists of modern time and so see Season 13 winner Caleb Johnson cover the title track from Skyfall (James Bond) was something spectacular.
14. Nick Fradiani - Nick showed off his skills doing a slower version of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers "American Girl". It had Jennifer Lopez dancing in her chair, so you know it had to be good.
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15. Trent Harmon - If you thought Chris Stapleton did an amazing job on Tennessee Whiskey, check out Trent's cover of the song. His soulful country vibe leaves you wanting to hear more. It's no wonder why he was crowned Season 15 winner.
