<P> A special tribute to Simon Cowell was presented in the finale for his final season with the show . Many figures from the show's past, including Paula Abdul, made an appearance . </P> <P> The final two contestants were Lee DeWyze and Bowersox . DeWyze was declared the winner during the May 26 finale . No new song was used as coronation song this year; instead, the two finalists each released a cover song--DeWyze chose U2's "Beautiful Day", and Bowersox chose Patty Griffin's "Up to the Mountain". This is the first season where neither finalist achieved significant album sales . </P> <P> Season ten of the series premiered on January 19, 2011 . Many changes were introduced this season, from the format to the personnel of the show . Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler joined Randy Jackson as judges following the departures of Simon Cowell (who left to launch the U.S. version of The X Factor), Kara DioGuardi (whose contract was not renewed) and Ellen DeGeneres, while Nigel Lythgoe returned as executive producer . Jimmy Iovine, chairman of the Interscope Geffen A&M label group, the new partner of American Idol, acted as the in - house mentor in place of weekly guest mentors, although in later episodes special guest mentors such as Beyoncé, will.i.am and Lady Gaga were brought in . </P> <P> Season ten is the first to include online auditions where contestants could submit a 40 - second video audition via Myspace . Karen Rodriguez was one such auditioner and reached the final rounds . </P>

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