[spoiler]Adam Lambert is destined to become the biggest worldwide success ever launched by American Idol. Many articles have been written about the top achievers from the highest rated reality show, American Idol. In February this year Billboard Magazine published an article listing the all time Top 24 American Idol contestants. Adam Lambert was placed in the 9th spot by Billboard. I disagree with that placement then and believe that Adam Lambert will eventually be the most successful American Idol ever. My prediction is not the hyperbole of an admitted fan, but based upon the research and analysis of the past performance and future prospects of the most successful American Idol contestants. I will critique the Top 12 on Billboard's list and include Scotty McCreery, who Billboard improperly placed at #15.

I will factor in the realization that we are in a much different music industry and a more turbulent worldwide economy than when American Idol first appeared on television eleven seasons ago. I will also take into consideration the Idol contestants who are in a career decline compared to those who have long established careers. Some past successful performers have dwindled in their fan appeal and have slim chances of regaining momentum. The fact that they had great sales in a totally different era does not place them in contention for becoming the all time greatest American Idol.

A few contestants have stood the test of time. The first American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, is still the strongest performer. The only one close in sales and longevity is Carrie Underwood, the Season 4 winner. Chris Daughtry is the top performing male alumnus who came in just fourth during Season 5, the strongest year ever. Keep in mind that all three stars have not had their latest albums go platinum.

Lets look at the numbers. Underwood had US sales of 7,228,000 for her biggest seller, Some Hearts. Underwood's currant album, Blown Away (May 1, 2012), has sold 707,000 copies. Clarkson's biggest seller, Breakaway sold 6,237,000 albums in the US, keeping in mind that Kelly Clarkson has worldwide appeal and sales. Clarkson's latest album, Stronger, (October 24, 2011) has sold 900,000 copies in the US. Clarkson has sold more than a million copies worldwide, since Stronger is platinum in Canada and Australia. Stronger sales are nowhere near her Breakaway sales. Daughtry's first album, Daughtry, sold 4,881,000 copies. His latest, Break The Spell (November 21, 2011), has sold 466,000 albums. Album sales are down for everyone including the past top Idols.

I believe Adam Lambert will surpass Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood and Daughtry to become the most successful American Idol ever. What's more I predict that Lambert will become this generation's most iconic international star.

Adam Lambert has the rare combination of extreme talent, extraordinary looks, intelligence, wit, charm and a riveting and electrifying stage presence. There is something else that sets him apart from mere mortals. He is the aphrodisiac of the century. He is one of the sexiest men who have ever stepped on a stage. The reason that Lambert has not yet arrived at the top echelon of success is not a mystery. Lambert's fight for his predestined place in entertainment history is complicated by his orientation.

When change is needed in this world sometimes the universe delivers someone strong enough to see it through. Elvis took us from sexual repression to sexual expression, Bob Dylan took us through difficult social times, The Beatles taught us about innocence, rebellion, and young love, Michael Jackson broke down racial barriers, and Adam Lambert is teaching us that "sexy is sexy" and that "music has no orientation". The love that Adam Lambert generates will overcome the hate that attempts to hold him back. This generation's greatest vocalist will not be denied his place in music history. Read my analysis and see if you agree.

Billboard's Top 12, is listed as follows and here is my take on their ranking.