Just like everyone predicted, Taylor Hicks was crowned as the latest American Idol tonight. But let's not let that unfortunate incident detract from what was otherwise a fantastic night of television.

Back when Kelly Clarkson won, she was dissed by the likes of Averil Lavigne (as if). Now, the music industry has embraced the power of Idol. Tonight's guests included: Mary J. Blige, Al Jareau, Toni Braxton, Dione Warwick and Prince (!). Also popping in were past Idol favorites like Carrie Underwood (looking like a beautiful angel) and Clay Aiken (looking like a completely different person).

My favorite moments:

• Elliott's duet with Mary J. Blige on U2's "One". Actually, it wasn't really a duet as Elliott just sang his part and then watched Mary J. Blige tear the roof off the sucka. Holy crap!
• Prince looking cute and not at all weird
• The Golden Idol awards were a cute touch
• Clay Aiken stunning a tearful lookalike on stage
• Speaking of lookalikes, you had to wonder if Chris was embarassed by how much he looked like Live's lead singer when they performed side by side

The lowlights were the finalists. I can't help thinking how much more into tonight I would have been if the finals had included Paris, Elliott or Chris. But, that's water under the bridge. Both Kat and Taylor did themselves proud tonight, but in the end, it was, of course, Taylor who took home the crown. How does Taylor rank in the annals of Idol? You'll have to decide.