American Idol (season 5) American Idol (season 5) The fifth season of reality television singing competition "American Idol" began on January 17, 2006, and concluded on May 24, 2006. Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell returned to judge, and Ryan Seacrest returned to host. It is the most successful season to date ratings-wise, and resulted in 18 contestants (including all of the top 10 and a few semifinalists) getting record deals – nine of them with major labels. It was the first season with a male winner (Taylor Hicks) and a female runner-up (Katharine McPhee). It was also the first season of the
American Idol 10th Anniversary – The Hits singles. It was announced on February 6, 2011 online and was posted by some of the contestants whose songs are included on the album online via Facebook and Twitter. American Idol 10th Anniversary – The Hits American Idol 10th Anniversary – The Hits is a compilation album that includes hits from several "American Idol" winners and former contestants, celebrating the tenth anniversary of the show. Clay Aiken, Daughtry, and Adam Lambert are the only artists included on the album who have not won the title. The album was released on March 15, 2011 via 19 Recordings and RCA Records. It