Clayton Holmes Aiken is an American singer, television personality, actor, politician, and activist. Aiken finished second place on the second season of American Idol in 2003, and his debut album, Measure of a Man, went multi-platinum. He released four more albums on the RCA label, Merry Christmas with Love (2004), A Thousand Different Ways (2006), the Christmas EP All is Well (2006), and On My Way Here (2008). Since then he has released two more albums, both with Decca Records: Tried and True (2010) and Steadfast (2012). Aiken has also had eleven tours in support of his albums. In all, he has sold over 5 million albums, and is the fourth-highest-selling American Idol alumnus.
Aiken at Politicon in 2016
Aiken at a 2006 Christmas tour appearance in Waukegan, Illinois
Clay Aiken speaking at Politicon in June 2016.
Aiken at a 2006 Christmas tour appearance in Merrillville, Indiana
The second season of American Idol premiered on January 21, 2003, and continued until May 21, 2003. The title of show was shortened from American Idol: The Search for a Superstar to just American Idol. Brian Dunkleman quit after the first season, and Ryan Seacrest therefore became the lone host beginning with the second season.
Back - Joshua Gracin, Clay Aiken, Kimberly Caldwell, Kimberley Locke, Charles Grigsby, Carmen Rusmusen, Trenyce, Ruben Studdard Seated - Julia DeMato, Corey Clark, Vanessa Olivarez, Rickey Smith
