Long time favourite Taylor Hicks was crowned King of American Idol yesterday, becoming the mammoth television competition's fifth winner.

Hicks beat sexy Katherine McPhee, 22, with his smooth and soulful 29-year old voice.

Billboard reports:

Hicks' many performances, singles such as show-closer "Do I Make You Proud" written by Tracy Ackerman, Andrew Watkins and Paul Wilson are expected to be included in the forthcoming effort.

He thanked his many fans, who are collectively dubbed "Soul Patrol," through the final song.

McPhee and Hicks performed "(I've Had) the Time of My Life" prior to the winning announcement.

Hicks shares his new winning title with prior "American Idols" Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, Ruben Studdard and Fantasia Barrino.