American Idol - Life Changing Moment - Ruben Studdard

As I mentioned in a previous Life Changing Moment, my first encounter with American Idol was Season 2, Wildcard night. Clay Aiken blew me away, but I hadn't yet been introduced to Ruben Studdard. I am an unapologetic Ruuuuben fan! Researching this life changing moment brought back so many memories! I really could have selected any song, because Ruben drew me in each and every week. He had a nack for picking just the right song! I selected this song only because the video included the judges comments. All of the Velvet Teddy Bear songs were amazing and they always put a smile on my face.

Take a look:

American Idol - Life Changing Moment - Clay Aiken

As some of you may (or may not know), I did not start watching American Idol until Season 2. I initially tuned in because it was on right before my FAVORITE show at that time, "24". This first performance was shot during the "Wild Card" show, which was also, my first show. Clay Aiken did not make it through to the Top 12 in his original round due to the bad luck of being in a group including Ruben Studdard and Kimberley Locke. But, he took the judges advice, cleaned up his "image" and came back with a performance that IMHO was a life changing moment. Ironically, Clay, Ruben and Kimberley went on to become the final three that season! Take a look:



What do you think? We are returning to a similar format this year, for the first time since season 2. Will the Top 3 of season 8 all come from the same group?

Clay Aiken - "Yes, I'm Gay"

Clay comes out of the closet to People magazine!

"I cannot raise a child to lie or to hide things."

Boy that baby has Clays forehead doesn't he?

Clay Aiken is Going To Be A Dad!

I don't even know where to begin with this one. Congratulations? This story broke yesterday (by TMZ) and I was a little skeptical, but it has been confirmed by People, Extra, Access Hollywood, etc.

Clay Aiken on "Are You Smarter Than A 5th Grader?"