"American Idol" producers may fret about the ratings dip. Fans may wonder about judge Paula Abdul's meta-level grip on music. Critics may imagine a future without host Ryan Seacrest. (Suggestion: Howzabout Season 6 competitor Chris Sligh for imbuing dry wit into the gig?).

Truth is, there's still a contest to be had. Yes, winning isn't everything, as former contestants Jennifer Hudson and Chris Daughtry have shown (or, the more negative example of Taylor Hicks and Ruben Studdard). Still, four dreams are at stake here, and each commands—at least for the moment—a following. In an old-school Buzz round-up, take a look at what the people want to know about the Fab Four.

David Cook
Cook avoided the curse of the judges' endorsement (can we say, Melinda Doolittle?), brought back a whiff of the Daughtry intensity, and had a chance to grow on the audience rather than peak too soon. He now holds double the lead over the other David in total searches and the core female "Idol" Search audience (30-54). More importantly, the quality of his queries have been higher: They're all about his music.

1. David Cook Always Be My Baby
2. David Cook Analog Heart
3. David Cook's Brother
4. David Cook and Lacey Schwimmer

David Archuleta
Jordin Sparks broke two barriers: She was the youngest to win the Fox reality contest and the first non-Southerner. That might seem to relieve some odds for Archuleta. His nice-guy charms and prom situation haven't worn off, but he may have come out too strong out of the gate. That bucks the "Idol" narrative—if not the American tale—of maturing before the audience, rather than becoming cornier. His 17-and-under appeal more than doubled, but at the cost of the 30-54 group.

1. American Idol 2008 Rumors David Archuleta
2. David Archuleta Fan Blast
3. David Archuleta Natasha Bedingfield
4. David Archuleta Sweet Caroline

Jason Castro
He had no exposure during the audition stage, but he vaulted up with "Hallelujah," drew out some more goodwill with the "Wizard of Oz" favorite, and has been unshakeable since. He not only tripled his 17-and-under following in searches, but also drew in more 35-54 year-old females. Curiosity has been more mixed as well, with interest in his dating life, his music, and his, um, habits. And who knows--being prejudged during Top Four week might have worked some sympathy in his favor, given suspicions and outrage over the show's heavy-handedness.

1. Jason Castro Girlfriend
2. Jason Castro Somewhere Over the Rainbow
3. Jason Castro Smoking
4. Jason Castro Paula Abdul

 

Syesha Mercado
The mystery of Syesha continues. She consistently places at the bottom, both in searches and on "Idol." The queries aren't varied, with nary a scandal to inflate her appeal. Her growth potential hasn't been fully demonstrated. Far fewer states back her. Enter now the conspiracy theories: Her biggest support is her home state of Florida ... and voting in the Sunshine State always presents a few twists and turns.

1. Syesha Mercado Pics
2. Syesha Mercado Bio
3. One Rock'n'Roll Too Many Syesha Mercado
4. Syesha Mercado Barefoot