Just because they didn't walk away with top prize doesn't mean these American Idol contestants have blown their chances of fame and fortune. We're taking a look at some of the American Idol "losers" who created their own big win!
Robyn Troup - Season Six
Though she didn't even make the top 24, Robyn Troup won the My Grammy Moment contest to perform live with Justin Timberlake at the 49th annual Grammys. Robyn sang the classic tune Ain't No Sunshine and Justin's My Love in front of millions of viewers. Besides her Grammy performance, she signed a deal with Timberlake's production company. Take that Simon!Chris Daughtry - Season Five
After getting the boot from American Idol as a fourth place finalist, Chris Daughtry's rock band, Daughtry, reached number one on the charts with their self-titled debut album. So far, the album has outsold efforts from fellow contestants Kellie Pickler, Katharine McPhee and Taylor Hicks.Mario Vazquez - Season Four
Mario Vazquez made it into the top 12 in season four only to drop out, citing "family reasons." But that wasn't the last the world heard from Mario! In 2005, he signed with Arista Records and in September 2006 he released his self-titled debut album. The single, Gallery, peaked at 35 in the charts.Jennifer Hudson - Season Three
Jennifer Hudson may have only been the seventh place finalist on the third season of American Idol, but she's clearly on of the biggest success stories the show has to offer. After A.I., Jennifer was cast as Effie White in the film version of Dreamgirls. Her performance was praised by critics and won her a Golden Globe and an Oscar nomination. Jennifer recently made history when she became the first black singer to ever land the cover of Vogue magazine. Her debut album is due out in late 2007.Josh Gracin - Season Two
Then-marine Josh Gracin turned his fourth-place status on American Idol into a successful country music career. His first album was certified gold and his second album, All About Y'All, is due out in 2007. Josh contrinuted the song Working for the Weekend to the Herbie: Fully Loaded soundtrack and Hound Dude to the The Fox and the Hound Two soundtrack. He's also made a guest appearance on The Young and the Restless.Tamyra Gray - Season One
Tamyra Gray finished fourth on the first season of American Idol. After her A.I. exit, Tamyra landed a reoccurring role on Boston Public and released her debut album, The Dreamer, back in 2004. Since then she's written songs for other artists (including Jessica Simpson), and married Color Me Bad singer Sam Watters. She's currently working on her second album.Related Stories:
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