It seems like every time I turn on the radio, Tattoo by Jordin Spark plays. And the odd time I turn on the country music station? Carrie Underwood asks Jesus to take the wheel or sings her lungs out her tribute to the American girl. But when was the last time she heard a Ruben Studdart ditty? And Taylor Hicks, the year 5 winner was dropped by his record label.

With this year’s American Idol pageants weeks away from ending and only one mediocre female contender left (Syesga Mercado), I almost have to wonder, does it really matter who wins this year? Because, if history repeats itself, the last thing we know about them will be the grand finale.

All of the female winners have had great success. Even Fantasia, who may not have hit the pop charts, is a force to be reckoned with on Broadway and an R&B star. Jordin is fast becoming a pop star, even dueting with Chris Brown on her next single. Kelly Clarkson is gaining popular and critical acclaim with each new hit and Carrie Underwood can’t be wrong.

I wonder why is that so? I think maybe, just maybe, it has something to do with it being more acceptable for a woman to win what is basically a popularity contest masquerading as a singing contest. For the girls, winning is a direct ticket to stardom. For the boys? It would be better to finish second, like Clay Aitkin did in season two. He may not have a great recording career, but he’s Seusical’s favorite. And really, isn’t his voice more suitable for Broadway? And let’s not forget third place winner Chris Daughterry.

With one of the best rock albums of the past year, his band Daughterry will most likely still be around for years to come. What I would like to see is one of the guys realize this and with three remaining plead and plead with the voting public not to vote for them. Then maybe they would have a chance to make a career. Why otherwise? Look for this year’s American Idol winner at a sales bin near you.