American Idols Live is a hit tour derived from the successful television singing competition that started in 2002.
Click Here to Buy American Idols Live concert TicketsThe competition has become one of the most widely publicized singing competitions in the US, with three celebrity judges who critique performers and a public voting format that determines the winner. Current judges are manager/producer Simon Cowell, pop star Paula Abdul and bassist Randy Jackson. The first season's winner Kelly Clarkson has seen major touring success in her own right, with several hit albums and the most charted singles, even receiving a Grammy. Season three winner, Fantasia Barrino, went on to gain the number on top-selling single in the US for 2006.
Controversy has swirled around a number of contestants, such as 2005's allegations of an affair and preferential treatment of Corey Clark by Paula Abdul. A three-month investigation cleared all charges. Controversy over the poor results of three African-American contestants in the third season was called by Sir Elton John as an "incredibly racist" move. Provocative photos of some contestants have surfaced as well. The touring cast of the production has seen great success with ticket sales selling out regularly as the show contestants travel the US after each season.