'Idol' Alums Clean Up at AMAs

'American Idol' alum's debut beats out Akon, Fergie

(NEWSER) - Billboard has declared "American Idol" alum Chris Daughtry the year's most popular artist, thanks to "Daughtry," his band's debut album, which has sold 3.2 million copies. Akon took second place with "Konvicted," which sold 2.7 million. Beyonce had the No. 1 single, "Irreplaceable," and the Police's reunion tour was the most successful of the year, grossing over $212 million. More»

(NEWSER) - Justin Timberlake donned a leotard and heels for a surprise guest appearance on Saturday Night Live this weekend, People reports. The singer played one of three incompetent backup dancers, reuniting with real-life duet partner Beyoncé—who ultimately fired the trio. JT rubbed up against Beyoncé and repeatedly intoned a breathy, "We're the dancers." More»

Emotional 'Idol' enters country's elite club

(NEWSER) - "American Idol" winner Carrie Underwood ratcheted up her country cred last night, reports the AP, and can now call herself a Grand Ole Opry cast member. Underwood joined the longest-running radio show, fighting back tears as Garth Brooks handled her induction. "This really seems like a great family to be part of," she said. "I promise I'll do everything I possibly can to not make you regret it." More»

She plans to scout talent for Jay-Z, says her cuz

(NEWSER) - Now that Beyoncé has finally tied the knot with Jay-Z, does that mean she's all set for retirement? That's what cousin Angelica Knowles tells the New York Daily News. Though Beyoncé will finish work on a new album, after that she plans to give her vocal chords a break and seek out new talent for her hubby's new label, the Carter Music Group, says cuz. More»

Justin Timberlake was into country music?

(NEWSER) - Paula Abdul may be bringing Star Search back—but will the talent competition bring us any new celebrities? The Frisky takes a look back at 10 stars who actually made it after going on the show in its heyday:

1. Britney Spears: Her voice sounded, arguably, better when she was 10 years old.
2. Beyonce: At age 12, she rapped on the show with Girls Tyme.