‘Idol’ Speculation On Career Prospects

Regardless of who edges ahead post ‘American Idol 2′, both Ruben Studdard and Clay Aiken have eclipsed countless contemporaries before recording a note. “They already have more real fans than a lot of artists, including people with hit records,” Sean Ross, editor of Airplay Monitor, tells USA Today. “They have more of a career than any veteran act we like that doesn’t have a hit.” That’s been demonstrated with the first season’s winner Kelly Clarkson. “The second season’s ratings and the success of ‘Miss Independent’ show just how potent a franchise this is,” Ross says. “Kelly is more than a novelty. I’m not sure yet that I know who she is as an artist, but we didn’t know that from the first albums by Christina Aguilera or Pink.” Read more.