The words ‘American Idol’ induce quite the mix of responses in different people does it not? Be it epileptic convulsions for some or an orgasmic high for others. Now as for you good people, I can predict the oncoming rants and cringes at the very mention, but we all have our dirty little secrets don’t we? I can most certainly bet my life that every single one of you has watched at least one episode of that show, rebuttal my dears is futile. If you really take the time to think about it the show has opened doors to some extremely talented musicians. Sure the ones on this list didn’t win, but they have achieved more than most of the actual winners. Let’s take a look at the praiseworthy rockers that have been on the show starting with.

5. Amanda Overmyer

She rocks a Harley and is known for her signature skunk- crossed with- Rogue from the X Men hairdo, what more would you need from this top 12 finalist of season seven? Her gruff, rough, sultry tone led to the judges drawing comparisons to the all time great Janis Joplin. Now tell me which of you didn’t like her? She has performed at tons of concerts across the U.S.A including the Harley Davidson Summerfest in Milwaukee and her album is set to be in stores during the course of this year, titled ‘Solidify’ it is most certainly something keep an eye out for.

4. Constantine Maroulis

Constantine, Constantine, Constantine… with a name like that how can you not be destined for something big? His rendition of Queen’s ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ on the show is one that is yet to be successfully rivalled and though his elimination was a shock to all, including myself, he took it in his stride and made himself into something bigger, much bigger. His solo album titled ‘Constantine’ was released in 2007 the same year that he joined the cast of ‘The Bold and The Beautiful’- not his finest moment, but I’m sure we can all find it in our hearts to forgive and forget. He has taken part in countless Broadway shows including the all time great ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ where he played Judas Iscariot and is currently the lead in the show ‘Rock of Ages’ for which he received a nomination for the ‘Tony Award’ for ‘Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical.’

3. Bo Bice

One of the gutsiest and seasoned contestants to appear in idol history, as seen by his decision to sing a cappella at a very late stage of the competition (top 3) and absolutely ‘nailing’ it! Bo was and indeed is something brilliant; his amazing voice and humble persona made him a clear favourite of audience’s world wide.  Since Idol, his version of ‘Inside Your Heaven’ debuted at No.2 on the ‘Billboard Hot 100 Chart’ and No.1 on the ‘Billboard Hot Single Sales chart’. He has since released two albums (one of which went gold), been on several tours and appeared on numerous television shows. He is a fellow lover of Miss Mary- J and seems like a pretty cool guy.

2. Adam Lambert

Fondly referred to as ‘Glambert’ is indeed a force to be reckoned with. His flamboyant style, theatrical performances and anomalistic presence made him a true treat to watch. His vocal range is absolutely amazing and his sometimes bizarre twist on songs certainly made things interesting. He has both the sexy, soulful side and the fun, bubbly side too. He has a colossal amount of talent and this year’s decision to pick Kris instead, was one of THE biggest mistakes in Idol history! However I can rest assured knowing that there are plenty of great things to come for Adam. Recently coming out with the fact that he is gay on a rolling stone interview (which was no shock to me, but I know quite a few ladies who had breakdowns when that came out), I have no doubt that even with his love for men he will continue to rock out and wet women’s panties around the world!

1. Chris Daughtry

Now I know there isn’t a single one of you that hasn’t heard this man’s name. He’s one of the biggest success stories for non winners on the show and personally, when he was eliminated I was out for blood. However after raging about the ‘nation of morons’ for a day or so I realized this was probably the best thing for him. Think about it; what kind of record do you think he would have been allowed to make if he had won? Certainly not the rock album that sold more than a million copies after just 5 weeks since its release, one that was titled ‘the fastest selling debut rock album in history’, one which in its ninth week of release reached No.1 on the Billboard charts! His lack of awareness of his good looks, charm and ability to make a lot of women very, very hot just added to the brilliance that is ‘Chris’. He is the fourth most successful American idol contestant that has ever been on the show according to record sales, and frankly Kelly, Carrie and Clay can kiss his ass.