Deco looks back on American Idol as it prepares to crown new winner for 24th season finale

American Idol is gearing up for its dramatic 24th season finale. Deco’s Shireen Sandoval takes a look back at how the iconic talent show has helped shape the face of music.

Carrie Underwood: “American Idol is the ultimate real life Cinderella story.”

Judge: “The winner of American Idol 2002 is…Kelly Clarkson! Ruben Studdard! Fantasia Burrino!”

It’s the singing competition that redefined the music industry.

Announcer: “This is American Idol.”

Jennifer Hudson: “The opportunity is what makes it work, you know? You can’t lose here. I mean it just propels your entire career.”

Jordin Sparks: “I don’t know how many seconds it took, but in those few seconds my life was never the same.”

Carrie Underwood: “I learned so much on the show that set me up for everything that would follow.”

Creating artists who shaped our generation.

Lionel Richie: “Kelly Clarkson for sure.”

Kelly Clarkson (singing): “Some people wait a lifetime for a moment like this.”

A legacy cemented in pop culture…

Fantasia Barrino (singing): “Cause anything is possible when you believe.”

David Archuleta: “It brought the power into the hands of the viewers.”

Hopefuls with a dream lin...