The Tribune

By LESH

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

THE FIRST female winner since Jordin Sparks was crowned American Idol’s Season 12 winner.

The South Carolina singer, Candice Glover, won over contestant Kree Harrison in the finale episode last week.
The look and expression on Candice’s face as host Ryan Seacrest called her name was priceless. Tears instantly fell down her face and she looked steady into the air, as if she did not believed the news.

“After a nation wide vote, the winner of American Idol season 12 is, Candice Glover,” said Seacrest, announcing the results. 
Judges Nicki Minaj, Mariah Carey, Keith Urban and Randy Jackson gave a standing ovation as Candice’s family jumped for joy. 
After trying out and getting cut from the show twice before, Candice came out victorious on her third try.
The confetti soon came falling from above and Candice tried to sing through the tears, the song that would be her first single, “ I Am Beautiful.”
In an interview with international reporters, Candice said:

“I am still trying to process the whole thing. I don’t even know my name, I don’t know what’s happening. It feels amazing though, I’ve finally got to this point. I’ve been working so long.”
She said: “I do remember confetti getting in my mouth when I was singing and stuff. I wanted to laugh but I was crying and it was just so much happening at that one moment, but it felt great.”

What motivated her to keep trying, even after being rejected in previous seasons? Candice said she found herself on the American Idol website looking at auditions again. She said she was determined knowing that if she kept trying, she would come out on top.

One fan said: “Candice is an amazing singer, so was Kree, but I am so happy for Candice right now it’s crazy. With every word she sang in her victory song, I cried for her because I felt those words. She was criticised for her wardrobe and her dull personality throughout the season, but her talent clearly shined through.”

Another fan said: “ It was a singing competition and the best singer won. I wasn’t too excited for this season’s show, but I did follow Candice here and there to keep up with her auditions. Her victory is well deserved.”
Highlights from the show included a performance by Aretha Franklin, PSY, Jennifer Lopez and Pitbull, and American Idol Judge Mariah Carey, along with Randy Jackson on the guitar. Keith Urban also graced the stage to perform his new song “Little Bit of Everything.”

The entire top 5 was back on stage, singing duets with big name stars. Candice took the stage with Jennifer Hudson, singing “Inseparable.” Kree performed with Keith Urban on the guitar. Travis Barker on the drums and Randy on the bass.

Janelle Arthur was back to perform with the Band Perry, Amber Holcomb with Emeli Sande, and Angela Miller with Jessie J.
Last week was also Randy’s final time appearing on the show as a judge. Randy said he is looking forward to focusing on his company, Dream Merchant 21 and other business ventures.
The season 12 journey has ended and Candice stands as the new American Idol.