American Idol: David Archuleta and David Cook Running Strong in Final 7

As Season 7 counts its way down to the finale and this year's American Idol, it still looks as if the final three might just be guys, even after Michael Johns sudden and totally unexpected departure last week. The two top contenders, commonly referred to as the "two Davids", don't seem to be having much of a problem getting there.

Since the competition began on this season's American Idol, 17-year-old David Archuleta has been the guy to beat. Constantly at the top of polls and power rankings, he has delivered almost every week a superb vocal performance. A little hesitant at times, his awkwardness only seems to endear him more to the screaming girls and his growing fan base. And his gee-gosh-golly laughing thank-yous break the humble meter. But it is that strong, smoky voice singing those way-too-old-for-him songs that is putting him through to each successive round without a hitch. Simon Cowell has said that Archuleta's performance was the best or one of the best on several of the shows (and, remember, America listens to Simon...).

David Cook, on the other hand, was and still is the dark horse in this contest. His song choices and performing ability have gotten him rave reviews from the American Idol panel of judges and from fans all over the country. Using original arrangements and obscure versions of the songs given to perform each week have shown that David Cook has a great ear for music, is very adept at adapting music to suit his particular vocals, and can play that guitar. His performances are confidence personified; his presence remarkable. Simon Cowell gave him the "Simon bump" when he told David Cook several weeks ago that if American Idol were a talent competition, he would win it all. Randy Jackson told him a couple weeks later that he was good enough to win. Paula Abdul -- well, Paula thinks everyone should win, so....