Few shows have achieved its exquisite combination of sleaziness (Coca-Cola moment, anyone?) and uplift, as Texas belter Kelly Clarkson moved us with A Moment Like This, a pop anthem bombastic enough to embarrass Celine Dion. You'll never admit it, but you cried.
(Fox)
The Piano Man conquers Broadway, Eminem goes Hollywood, plus the rest of TIME's picks for the best of the year