“American Idol” finale, Lee DeWyze takes the win

All the votes were in for the winner of the “American Idol” highly anticipated season 9 finale. The two hour finale showcased a variety of iconic musicians while also bringing back past Idol winners. As Lee DeWyze was announced the winner in the final moments of the show by Ryan Seacrest, the excitement of the win left crowds in a cheering frenzy and DeWyze in awe.

DeWyze, 24, ended the season by singing the U2 song “Beautiful Day,” and it truly was an a amazing day for the humble Mount Prospect, Ill. native. His victory was based off of the number of votes received for Tuesday nights performance.

Even though runner-up, Crystal Bowersox, received more praise for her performance by the judges on Tuesday, DeWyze fans pulled him to the win.

“It’s amazing,” DeWyze said in shock. “Thank you guys so much. For everything. Thank you…I’ve never been happier in my life.”

The night kicked off with the top 12 season 9 contestants performing to the 1972 hit “School’s Out For Summer.” The cast dressed in school uniforms and sang back-up for music legend, Alice Cooper.

One of the best performances of the night was Janet Jackson’s. The pop icon showed off her new short hair-do and a futuresque black dress, and began in a tender performance of “Nothing.” She then livened up the stage in a skin-tight cat suit while singing “Nasty” accompanied by male back-up dancers.

Other performances of the night included Christina Aguilera, who sang the new track “You Lost Me,” from her upcoming album “Bionic.” Bowersox came together with Alanis Morissette for a dramatic duet to “You Oughta Know.” Casey James, eliminated in last week’s show, performed “Every Rose Has its Thorn” with Brett Michaels, who made a surprise appearance after his recent health problems.

Simon Cowell got his wish for his very last appearance on “American Idol.” He supported DeWyze from the very beginning, he really believed in DeWyze’s talent.

A much softer side of the tough judge shined through as Paula Abdul returned to “Idol” to serenade him. She sat on his lap while previous contestants such as Carrie Underwood, Kris Allen, Kelly Clarkson, Taylor Hicks and Fantasia Barrino also sang to Cowell.

The season finale averaged 23.2 million viewers which is a 16 percent decrease from last years finale.

Lee DeWyze video performing “Beautiful Day” on the Finale

Photo from hyku via Flickr