American Idol has been a huge hit around the world since season one. Many popular artists have been given the opportunity of bigger and better opportunities through earning a spot in the American Idol cast. Carrie Underwood, who recently  sang at the 2010 super bowl, is one of these inspiring artists. Just a few years ago Underwood was a small town girl with big dreams. American Idol clearly helps singers become nationally recognized while providing them the opportunity to receive constructive criticism from professionals in the musics industry.

Randy Jackson, music producer, Paula Abdul, former singer, songwriter and choreographer and  Simon Cowell, English music executive are amongst the original judges on American Idol. However, Abdul reportedly resigned from Idol and was “replaced” with Kara Dioguardi, a singer, songwriter and record producer.

Ellen DeGeneres is also being pulled into the mix as a new edition to the  season 9 judges, she brings playful humor and brutal honesty to the show. While greeting fellow judge Simon Cowell, Ellen joked, “So this is it, huh? I come on and you leave?”

In addition to the outstanding judges, Ryan Seacrest, with his thriving broadcasting career and multiple ventures in media,  is at the forefront of the entertainment industry, making American Idol entertaining. Although American Idol is full of talented judges, hosts and crazed fans,  Idol would be nothing without the hard working inspired singers.

One inspiring but funny contestant was Larry Platt  and his “Pants on the Ground” song, now being memorized by the nation. Although he did not make it through to the next round, he did make his mark, ” You look like a fool with your pants on the ground.” Besides the humor in Idol, this season is still going on strong in the auditions stage.  The 9th season of American Idol  must live up to its previous one, while being able to add more songs to the American Idol hit list one day.  This year the top 10  songs from American Idol stars were:

1. David Archuleta – Crush
2. Chris Daughtry – Home
3. Kelly Clarkson – Breakaway
4. Carrie Underwood – Before He cheats
5. Adam Lambert – Whataya Want From Me
6. Jordin sparks – No Air
7. David Cook – Permanent
8. Elliot Yamin – Wait for You
9. Kris Allen – Heartless
10. Katharine Mcphee – Over it

Stay tuned to American Idol, airing on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings on FOX and be ready to vote for another aspiring artist so they can make it into this “top 10” list.

Photo Credithttp://cdn.buzznet.com/media/jj1//2010/01/idol-judges/american-idol-season-9-celebrity-guest-judges-03.jpg