Bluesy guitar man Phillip Phillips is the new "American Idol," defeating teenage songbird Jessica Sanchez.

Winner Phillip Phillips (L) and host Ryan Seacrest speak onstage during Fox's "American Idol 2012" results show
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Phillips, a 21-year-old pawn shop worker from Leesburg, Ga., received more viewer votes than 16-year-old Sanchez of Chula Vista, Calif.

Phillips' victory Wednesday extended the "American Idol" winning streak for males to five consecutive seasons. The last female to win was 17-year-old Jordin Sparks in 2007.

During the three-song showdown Tuesday between Phillips and Sanchez, the show's judges praised his performance across the board. Sanchez was faulted for a lackluster rendition of her final song, "Change Nothing."

Phillips, who was a top vote-getter throughout the season, gets a recording contract along with bragging rights.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)

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