'IDOL' Finalists Adam Lambert and Kris Allen Sing to Win One Last Time

"American Idol" reaches its season finale this week as it continues to hold an iron grip on U.S. television ratings after eight seasons. The first part of finale showdown took place tonight, Tuesday May 19th, and it pit musical theater star rocker Adam Lambert, whom Entertainment Weekly magazine called "the most exciting 'American Idol' contestant in years," directly against sweet natured and married college student Kris Allen, a favorite among teen gals.

Allen and Lambert both sang three songs tonight, first was their own choice, second Simon Fuller's choice and finally the season ending coronation song. This year's finale number is "No Boundaries," written by "Idol" judge Kara DioGuardi, Cathy Dennis and Mitch Allen and produced by Eman. 

Adam Lambert was first up singing a reprise of a song from earlier in the season that he scored very highly with, "Mad World." Tonight he sang a more controlled but no less seductive version of the number, it proved a very successful performance. Kris Allen followed, singing his reprise performance, "Ain't No Sunshine." Allen was a wonder with the song and gained the judges acclaim, in many ways he won the first round with his return take on the number.

Round 2 was show creator Simon Fuller choice "Change Is Gonna Come" for Adam Lambert, Adam took it and made it his own, giving a thrilling performance, he was then quickly "back in the game." 

Fuller's pick for Kris Allen was "What's Going On" by Marvin Gaye. Allen performed well, but his overall energy with it was not as powerful as his earlier turn, the judges agreed and gave the second round to Lambert.

Adam and Kris finally gave performances of the coronation song, "No Boundaries", the song did neither singer any favors, but Allen seemed to comport himself better with it overall. Carrie Underwood also perform the year's elimination song "Home Sweet Home" tonight. Now it is up to the American public to decide who will be this year's "American Idol", the result will be revealed tomorrow evening on the final Season 8 episode.

Over 88 million people voted last week, the voting for the Idol finale is expected to break all past seasons records.

In addition to performing in WICKED, Adam Lambert also had a role in The Ten Commandments and appeared in The Zodiac Show.

AMERICAN IDOL is created and executive-produced by Simon Fuller, founder of 19 Entertainment; and executive-produced by Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia North America; and Ken Warwick, executive producer, FremantleMedia North America.

Visit americanidol.com for exclusive videos, interviews and photos of the finalists as well as special behind-the-scenes information and all of your AMERICAN IDOL news.

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