It was down to a trio of contestants who performed Tuesday night on the FOX reality show American Idol. Danny Gokey, Kris Allen and Adam Lambert entertained viewers with two songs apiece and then it was up to America to decide who would be sent home.
The Top 3 journeyed back to their hometowns for a love fest; Danny to Milwaukee, Kris to Conway, Arkansas and Adam to San Diego. Touching video footage showed frenzied fans at rallies and parades.
Season 6 winner Jordin Sparks, looking very HOT, sang Battlefield and Katy Perry performed Waking Up in Vegas. She wore a cape that she revealed to the audience with Adam Lambert’s name embroidered boldly in red across the back.
Over 88 million votes were cast and it was learned that the Top 2 contenders had only 1 million votes separating them. After the votes were tabulated, it was Danny Gokey who was eliminated – see video below. He took the stage and performed an emotional rendition of You Are So Beautiful, bringing tears to the eyes of judges Kara and Paula.
The 29 year old music director lost his wife Sophia 10 months ago when she died of complications following heart surgery. It was just three weeks later when he first auditioned for American Idol.
For a walk down memory lane, see the May 12, 2009 performance videos here.
The final performances will air on May 19 and the Finale will be broadcast on Wednesday, May 20 from the Nokia Theatre LA LIVE. The TV Guide network will host a two-hour live Finale Red Carpet special from 6-8PM ET/PT on May 20.
Check out your American Idol Season 8 Top 2 below, Katy Perry and Jordin Sparks performance videos, and Danny Gokey singing You Are So Beautiful as his parting song.