Taylor Hicks is headlining in clubs and casinos. Kellie Pickler is opening for Brad Paisley. Chart-topping Chris Daughtry is gigging all over the place.

Last year's "American Idol" finalists are working it harder than any of their predecessors.

Runnerup Katharine McPhee has hit the radio-concert circuit, Minneapolis, Allentown, Pa., and New Haven, Conn.

Ms. McPhee, 23, is promoting her self-titled CD, which was a curveball to "Idol" worshippers. After showing off her big, Broadway-ready voice on TV, she gave herself a musical makeover, serving up a collection of dance pop, R&B and pop. Coupled with her new sex-kitten...