American Idol Final: Finalists Noah Thompson, HunterGirl and Leah Marlene have shown it in recent performances

LOS ANGELES – The vote is over and the new “American Idol” is named! Noah Thompson takes home the crown.

The three finalists sang Bruce Springsteen’s music in an effort to win the title.

Leah Marlene, Noah Thompson and HunterGirl have been good enough to impress the referees throughout the season, and in fact, it should be said that the trio has delighted them from the start.

Sunday’s finale was like a free concert. Participants, judges and some famous musical names performed at the 3-hour music festival.

Among the many musical guests: Earth, Wind and Fire, Melissa Etheridge, Flo Rida and Michael Bublé.

Win or lose, all three finalists called the time on “American Idol” a life-changing experience.

“I came to the show and never know what to expect, but I know I’m going to leave with so much experience and so many people I’ll be talking to for the rest of my life,” HunterGirl said.

Finalist Leah Marlene says she loves the energy of a live audience. For her, the whole experience was one big holiday.

“Music is about sharing a moment with other people, so having people to eat with, for example, is about enjoying and being together,” Marlene said.

At 19, Noah Thompson is the youngest of three.

“I remember coming in and seeing the judges. Man, I was crazy scared,” Thompson said. “I’ve never been so nervous in my life, you know? People are what literally take this life out of you.”