Yesterday, it was announced that reality-TV show American Idol will end its run in 2016, after 15 seasons on the air. Initially launched as Pop Idol in the U.K. in 2001, American Idol began airing on U.S. television in 2002, where it launched the careers of several well-known pop stars, including Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson and Carrie Underwood.

But beyond those who "won" American Idol, many of the show's so-called rejects have gone on to have successful careers in music. What's more, there are many successful artists we all love, who — due to their unconventional voices or perhaps non-fashion-icon appearances — would never have made it onto the hit TV series in the first place. That's why, as American Idol heads for the archives of television, let's celebrate the music of those don't fit the American Idol template.

So for today's 9:30 Coffee Break, what songs do you want to hear by artists who never would have made it onto American Idol? Send us your requests.

Songs Played

Bob Dylan "Like a Rolling Stone"
Kimya Dawson "Tire Swing"
Tom Waits "I Don't Wanna Grow Up"
Daniel Johnston "Lennon Song"
tUnE-yArDs "Gangsta"
The Hold Steady "First Night"

Do you deserve a Coffee Break? We at The Current's Morning Show think you do, and we want to bring treats from Black: Coffee and Waffle Bar to your workplace. Let us know why you'd like a Coffee Break.

Related

• American Idol - official site