Candice Glover wins American Idol 2013 (PHOTOS)

The third time's a charm for Candice Glover, a soul singer from St. Helena Island, South Carolina. She is "American Idol" 2013. 23 year old Candice who appeared in two earlier seasons of the show defeated country singer Kree Harrison in the popular vote with her powerful voice in what judges deemed a close contest to take the title.
Glover looked stunned when "Idol" host Ryan Seacrest announced "You are officially our American idol". With tears streaming down her face after hearing her name, Glover seemed lost for words. "Oh, my God," she said. "Three years."
"Three years, persistence, determination and a lot of talent. You deserve it," said Seacrest.
The finale featured performances by judges Keith Urban and Mariah Carey, as well as Aretha Franklin, Jennifer Lopez, rapper Pitbull and South Korea's Psy, who sang his new single "Gentleman."
Glover, the first woman to be crowned "Idol" since Jordin Sparks six years ago, won a record deal, which could help propel her to the stardom enjoyed by other women "Idol" winners such as Grammy Award winners Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood. See more photos

Candice Glover reacts on stage after she was announced the winner

Candice Glover, left, and runner-up Kree Harrison await results to be read by host Ryan Seacrest

Jennifer Lopez performs at the "American Idol" finale

psy

Pitbull

Candice Glover, left, and Jennifer Hudson hold hands after performing at the "American Idol" finale

Judges Mariah Carey, left, and Randy Jackson

Judges Mariah Carey, left, and Nicki Minaj, right, kiss Randy Jackson following a tribute to Jackson at the "American Idol" finale

Judges, from left, Mariah Carey, Randy Jackson, Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban

(Photos by Matt Sayles/Invision/AP)