Lee DeWyze wins American Idol!: Lee Dewyze, the 24-year-old, former paint salesman, became American Idol’s 9th winner by defeating rival Crystal Bowersox. The votes are 51% for DeWyze and 49% for Bowersox.

The 2-hour finals night included numbers from fellow Season 9 contestants and special guests that includes Alice Cooper, Barry Gibb, Robin Gibb, Michael McDonald, Dane Cook, Christina Aguilera, Daryl Hall, John Oates, Alanis Morissette, Bret Michaels, Chicago, Larry “Pants on the Ground” Platt, William Hung, Janet Jackson and Joe Cocker.

Although Bowersox drew higher marks from the judges for her performance this week, the panel had reaffirmed its respect for DeWyze’s talent and his character — and the audience agreed.

“I have never been happier in my life,” said an emotional DeWyze. We can all remember that he is initially shy and ill at ease, but he blossomed in the later rounds and emerged as a serious American Idol contender.

Tonight is also special because it was judge Simon Cowell’s last season for the popular talent show. Former judge Paula Abdul made a special appearance for the night along with Idol winners, except David Cook, and finalists from previous seasons who did a special song number as tribute to the show’s well-loved judge. Cowell, who is known for his frank and often sarcastic remarks. There was also a film clip tribute for him and a parody song by Dane Cook.

Being the winner of American Idol, Lee DeWyze‘s first single will be “Beautiful Day”.