Some may classify Phillip Phillips as a "safe" contestant at the beginning of the Season 11 of American Idol. Get to know the underdog who has managed to triumph over the show's "power belting" contestants.

Although he didn't start off as one of the biggest contenders at the beginning of the show, he definitely was a crowd and online favorite. Maybe it was his rugged charm or his guitar skills, but it's still undeniable what equally great talent the 21-year-old contestant from Georgia possesses.

Born in Leesburg, Georgia, Phillip Phillips graduated at the Albany technical College with a major in Industrial Systems Technology but had missed his graduation ceremonies due to commitments he had with American Idol.

He auditioned in Savannah, Georgia where he sang his version of "Superstition" by Stevie Wonder. Not having enough for their ears, the judges asked him to do another song with his guitar. Phillips sang "Thriller" by Michael Jackson and advanced to the Hollywood rounds and from then on started his journey at the American Idol stage.

A few weeks ago, he shared a glimpse of his private life when he spoke publicly about his girlfriend. She sat among the "Idol" audience while the cameras managed to pan over the brunette.

"She's really proud of me getting out there and pursuing my dream and everything, she supports me all the way," Phillips told Hollywood Life.

After a series of performances and eliminations, Phillips found himself at the finals together with Jessica Sanchez. Although Sanchez was an early favorite among the judges, Phillips managed to "wow" the panel and received a standing ovation for his final song "Home."

"I wanted to do my own stuff, but we only had a certain amount of time to do everything, so I had to do that one, and it's a really good song. The writers are really good. It's not really something I would write, so I'm excited to get my own stuff out there," Phillips said of the song that gave him his standing ovation, also one that probably sealed the deal for the "Idol" crown.

Phillip Phillips, the latest "Idol" winner now shares the title with other successful "Idol" winners like Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood and last year's winner Scotty McCreery.

Watch the video for Phillip Phillips final performance at the American Idol.

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