Taylor Hicks Wins American Idol

In a vote that surprised few, gray-haired Alabama native Taylor Hicks was crowned the new American Idol.

The 29-year-old beat out runner-up Katherine McPhee in a finale that included guest appearances by Prince, Mary J. Blige, Meatloaf, Toni Braxton, Al Jarreau, Burt Bacharach, Dion Warwick, and former American Idol winners Carrie Underwood and Clay Aiken.

Both Hicks and McPhee will be releasing solo albums in the coming months, and will also be going on tour with the 10 other contestants that made up the final 12 from this season's show.

Viewership for American Idol was up 14% this season - impressive for a show in its fifth season.