http://music.aol.com/popeater/2008/01/07/t...om-major-label/Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood were catapulted to super-stardom by 'American Idol.' Season three winner Fantasia Barrino brought tourists to New York in droves for her turn in the Oprah-backed Broadway adaptation of 'The Color Purple.' Even finalists Elliot Yamin and Chris Daughtry have enjoyed major chart success following their 'Idol' experience. However, winning the hit reality series competition is no longer a guarantee for success. Season five winner Taylor Hicks and season two winner Ruben Studdard have both been dropped from their record labels.
After recording three albums with J Records, Studdard's most recent release, 'The Return,' saw only marginal sales. The label decided to end their relationship with the gospel/R&B singer from Alabama. Taylor Hicks, who released his self-titled album with the company has also been dropped and plans to release his next album on his own.