David Cook and David Archuleta Face Off in American Idol Finale

After over 50 million votes from American Idol fans, the final two contestants to perform in the American Idol finale have been determined...David Cook and David Archuleta. On Tuesday, May 20,2008, Cook and Archuleta will take the American Idol stage one last time to fight it out for the title. Considering the talent and determination displayed by both of these young men throughout the competition and the horde of dedicated fans each has acquired, this finale promises to be the closest race in the history of American Idol.

Here's a closer look at the weaponry each performer brings to the American Idol stage for the final battle.

Singing Talent:

American Idol Contestant, David Archuleta -
David Archuleta sings with a vocal maturity far beyond his years. When listening to the pure, controlled tone of Archuleta, it's easy for one to forget he's only seventeen years old. The ease with which he sings difficult musical runs and sustains the high notes is a true testament of his singing ability. Factor in that he's also a talented pianist and David Archuleta seems to have found his niche as a ballad singer.

American Idol Contestant, David Cook-
David Cook, a rocker at heart, brings an edge to his performances with his powerful upper vocal range and gifted electric guitar playing. Cook possesses a surprisingly melodic voice for a rocker and exercises skillful vocal control. He has proven his talent with his impressive ability to be able to take a song from any style of music, from country to Broadway, and perform it with excellence.

Stage Presence:

American Idol Contestant, David Archuleta-
While performing on the American Idol stage, David Archuleta remains focused and poised. He exhibits true professionalism even in the midst of difficulty. Take, for instance, the performance in which he forgot his lyrics. Instead of making his mistake obvious to the viewers, Archuleta continued the song without even flinching. If not for the mention of his misfortune from the judges, most viewers would have never noticed the blunder. David Archuleta proved his stage maturity with the way he handled that situation.