David Archuleta probably won the entire “American Idol” crown with his performance of what is sure to be a number one single.

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David Archuleta performed this track during Mac-Len week and honestly, John Lennon would be proud. Lennon’s title track to his iconic album was a plea for peace. The song is as timely in the ’70s as it is today.

John Lennon’s original,

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Collective Soul’s emotional song about looking depression, suicide and death in the face and walking away proved this band was deeper than a one-hit wonder. Their previous single, “Shine,” was catchy and quite bubble-gum. This track showed an element of the group that endeared them to millions and made “The World I Know” an instant classic.

Just when life seems to have no hope and to be without any light, a simple reminder of the world’s precious gifts is all it takes to find embrace in the miracle that is life.

David Cook’s deeply emotional version on the “American Idol” finale is especially poignant because of his brother who is sick with cancer and is facing a difficult health challenge ahead.

Collective Soul’s original:

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A new song whose history will be written after the confetti falls on tonight’s “American Idol” winner.

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An Elton John and Bernie Taupin classic that took over the world’s airwaves in 1974. A singer’s love note to a lover who has moved on despite their pleas to not place them in life’s rearview mirror. From the album “Caribou,” the song peaked at number two and despite being Elton’s signature song, it never hit number one.

A chilld inducing song regardless of who sings it, another stellar version is George Michael and Elton’s version. The track is also a favorite on “American Idol.”

Here’s Elton, the originator:

Who could forget George Michael’s version, with Sir Elton joining in.

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U2 brought themselves down to earth with this second single from 1987’s “Joshua Tree.” the band went from indie rock darlings to the superstars we know them today with “I Still Haven’t.”

Bono showed personality beyond his rebel rock persona that endeared him to millions that to this day hoover on his every word.

And here’s U2’s journey through the streets of Casino-lit Las Vegas.

When U2 came to American to make its documentary “Rattle and Hum,” the band heard about a Harlem gospel choir that had taken the song and made it their anthem.

Witness musical magic:

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Performer: David Cook

Song: I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing

Aerosmith had their biggest hit of their three decade career with “I Don’t Want To Miss a Thing.” The song was the love theme from the asteroid blockbuster “Armageddon” and will always be remembered for the awkward moment of witnessing Ben Affleck running his fingers along Liv Tyler’s navel while her father serenades them on the soundtrack.

Those images of Affleck and Tyler are unfortunate because as Simon pointed out on “American Idol” it is one of the most well written songs of all time.

Watch David Cook’s Top 3 performance of Don’t Want to Miss a Thing on American Idol 7.

Aerosmith…

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Performer: Syehsa Mercado

Song: Hit Me Up

As witnessed by the song’s performance on “Idol,” not exactly a track to be performed by a single singer without images of dancing penguins overtaking the mind.

The “Happy Feet” soundtrack featured this catchy ditty and helped propel the film to become an enormous hit. Ask any parent and they know this song well!

Serving as the debut single from singer Gia Farrell wasn’t meant for the penguin film. It was the song meant to put Farrell on the map. It certainly did do that peaking at number 40 on the Top 40. It was only when the track appeared on the big screen did Farrell truly have a hit on her hands.

Watch Syesha Mercado’s Top 3 performance of Hit Me Up on American Idol 7.

A Happy Feet clip…

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