Sparks Beats Out Lewis for 'American Idol' Title

Jordin Sparks, the 17-year-old Christian phenom from Glendale, Ariz., became the youngest “American Idol” champion following Wednesday night’s live results finale, showing that America preferred the “singer” more than the “entertainer.”

Sparks was one of several Christian vocalists who were backed by the Gospel Music Association (GMA) on this sixth season of America’s most watched show. She had been the Overall Spotlight Winner at the 2004 GMA Academy and grabbed top prize in the Country/Southern Gospel category. With her latest win, the Arizona native has now nabbed a recording contract with BMG Music Group.

"I can't thank you [enough] for keeping me around and thank you so much for everything," explained the ecstatic Arizona teen after the vote was revealed.

Sparks and fellow “Idol” finalist Blake Lewis, 25, were both described by judges as having fairly even shots of winning, during the live two-hour climax. They had argued that Sparks was the stronger singer while Lewis was the better entertainer.

“What I love about this show is that it's American Idol: Search for the Next Superstar. It is a singing competition bar-none,” commented judge Randy Jackson, who seemed to favor Sparks this season, after her final performance of “This is My Now” Tuesday. “You were the best singer tonight. You deserve it all baby! That was fire right here! That's what it's all about! You are what it's about.”

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