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'American Idol' Finale: And the Winner Is...

It was down to Phillip and Jessica in the finale. So which talented singer came out on top? (14 Photos)

Jennifer Graham Kizer on May 24, 2012 at 8:59AM

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'American Idol' Finale: And the Winner Is...

Mark Davis/Getty Images

Phillip Phillips
WINNER!

Age: 21

Hometown: Leesburg, Ga.

About Him: The Dave Matthews comparisons are unavoidable -- this cute pawnshop worker has a rumbling voice and an acoustic guitar. Based on his smooth rendition of Phil Collins' "In the Air Tonight," he also has genuine talent and a commercial sensibility. "You've got a crazy kind of voice where you hang your hat on which notes you want to growl on," said judge Steven Tyler. "It's not easy having a voice like yours and making it fit other songs."

Why He Won: It was clear from the beginning that Phillip was pulling in the female vote with his good looks and sultry performances. But it was his unique and modern singing style that carried him through the end. After the big reveal, Phillip broke into tears as he treated the audience to one more performance of "Home," his new single, as confetti rained down. "This doesn't feel real," he told reporters after the show. "It's so unreal. It still hasn't sunk in yet. It's such a blessing. I have no idea why this happened. I just want to play music and I'm just a lucky guy."