That’s right. Your Christmas wish has come true. Another list for your perusing pleasure.

Today, I’m proud to present The Lamp Post’s list of the Top 11 breakout stars of 2K9. Enjoy!

(Reasons for the inclusion of each are after the photo preview…)

11. Tiger’s Mistresses

These chicks should really be #1, but I just couldn’t do that. Whether they are fame-seeking celeb humpers or hookers with hearts of (fool’s) gold, these gals have been shoved down our collective faces during the last month. (Side note: I can’t believe it’s only been a month since this story broke.) Maybe that’s because you can’t turn on any channel without seeing one of these hoes. Anyhow, congrats girls. You did your thang (and them some).

10. Jim Parsons

Easily the funniest part of CBS’s The Big Bang Theory, Jim Parsons really broke through in 2009. So much so that he even joined the ranks of Alec Baldwin & Steve Carell when he was nominated alongside these gents for Best Lead Actor in a Comedy Series at this year’s Primetime Emmy Awards. And if you haven’t seen the hilarious Leonard Nimoy napkin episode, do yourself a favor and check it out.

9. Melanie Oudin

The Cinderella story at this year’s US Open, the adorable Oudin had a miracle run, defeating gals much older – and taller – than her en route to reaching her first Grand Slam Quarterfinal ever.

8. Kris Allen

Did you really think I would leave this Idol nugget off the list? As if. Plus, Kris’s self-titled debut album is probably one of the best albums you’re NOT listening to. It’s track after track of pop/rock goodness. Listen to my personal fave, Alright With Me, right now. Seriously, click that.

7. Carey Mulligan

A front runner for Best Actress at the just-around-the-corner Academy Awards, Mulligan has already scooped up tons of accolades for her star turn in An Education. Most recently, she received nods from both the Golden Globes & The Screen Actors Guild. Bonus points for starring alongside one of my favorite actors, Mr. Maggie Gyllenhaal Peter Sarsgaard.

6. Levi Johnston

I was tempted to put this Eskimo at #1 for no other reason than the hilarious and embarassing shit storm he’s caused the Palin clan. But really, who can deny the attention he’s received this year? Shameless self promotion? Sure. But promotion, nonetheless. Plus, has anyone in history gone from appearing at the Republican National Convention one year, to turning into a huge gay icon the next year? Only Levi, people. Only Levi.

5. Chris Pine

Star Trek was one of the biggest films of the summer – and my favorite blockbuster of the year. There was talk that William Shatner wasn’t happy about the new film, mostly because he wasn’t asked to be a part of it like his old pal – and original Spock -  Leonard Nimoy. I never thought I’d mention Nimoy twice in one blog post. Still, even Shatner can appreciate Pine’s brilliant – and hilarious -  portrayal of Captain Kirk in the first of J. J. Abrams Star Trek tales. At this point that train wreck with Lilo seems like a distant memory, eh Chris?

4. Gabourey Sidibe

PRECIOUS! PRECIOUS! PRECIOUS! Unless you’ve been living under a Christmas rock, you know this gal plays the title role in director Lee Daniels’ new film. Gabourey, along with former Charm School Headmaster, Monique, has been getting rave reviews for her performance. I’d be shocked if she doesn’t get an Oscar nod. And to think…this is her first movie. Ever.

3. Adam Lambert

He sang, he screamed, he simulated fellatio on national television. What didn’t Adam Lambert do in 2009? I guess any woman is the answer to that question. Love him or hate him, he’s been everywhere this year. His staying power remains to be seen, but there are plenty of Glambert fans out there and the album is pretty good. Listen to Whatya Want From Me. It’s a nice, mid tempo ballad that I bet even Adam’s biggest detractors will enjoy.

2. Lea Michele

Rachel Berry is love. And so is Lea Michele. I was lucky enough to catch Ms. Michele live on stage during her heartbreaking & beautiful performance in one of my favorite Broadway musicals ever, Spring Awakening. Luckily for the larger population, you don’t have to make the trip to NYC to enjoy this girl’s very special gifts. Don’t forget that Glee: The Road to Sectionals is released on DVD Tuesday. Thanks to my sis and her fiance for pre-ordering my copy. And apologies to my neighbors for the 24/7 sing-along that will insue upon delivery.

1. Susan Boyle

All hail SuBo! Seriously, who else could top this list? Bo Obama? It’s been quite a year for this gal. Everyone with internet access watched and cried as good ol’ SuBo reminded us all that you can’t judge a book by its ratty, hand-me-down cover. But this beauty is no reality TV fluke. Susan’s debut album, I Dreamed a Dream, sold 701,000 copies in its first week (in the U.S.), making it the best opening week for a debut artist in over a decade. Yowza!

Relive the moment that made Susan a star – and made Simon Cowell even more money – here.

I’ve already mentioned my love of year-end lists, and the American Idol anticipation is reaching a fever pitch in my apartment (mostly just my bedroom), so I thought now would be the perfect time to reveal The Lamp Post’s rundown of the Top 12 Performances in American Idol history. I know 10 sounds better, but I couldn’t do it. I love it too much. So you get two bonus clips! Check them out below and let me know if you agree – or totally disagree – with my list.

12. Chris Daughtry, “Walk The Line”

Before Chris Daughtry stole Chad Kroeger’s UFC-lovin’ fan base, he nearly won Idol’s 5^th season. But he didn’t. I hardly think he cares, though. He’s sold millions. Check out his take on this Cash classic. So dark. So bald.

11. Clay Aiken, “Solitaire”

Oh, Clay Aiken. What would this world be without Clay Aiken and his Claymates? A little more sane, sure, but we’d miss out on so much more. Say what you will about Clay and his baby mama, he’s got a great voice. And this performance is seriously good.

10. Jordin Sparks, “I Who Have Nothing”

It was weird to watch such a youngin’ sing about such big girl things, but Jordin Sparks still nailed this song. And here is a case with a name that just spells victory from the get go. Jordin SPARKS. If Sparks weren’t enough, spelling Jordin with an I certainly is.

9. Fantasia, “Summertime”

Again with the annoyingly unique names. I mean this one is a Disney film. Plus, one-named artists are instantly loved. Sorry Lil’ Rounds, you’re “lil” ruined your shot. Or was it your out of tune voice? I don’t remember. Anyway, this was Fantasia’s big moment, as well as one of the only performances I enjoyed. Hate on me, if you must. The screechines is unappealing.

8. Adam Lambert, “Mad World”

It’s easy to forget what a great singer Adam Lambert is when he’s sharing leftovers with Keyboard players and forcing faces into his zipper, but the dude can sing. Not just scream, really sing. This was a totally haunting performance that proved he’s not all flashy theatrics.

[Note: It appears that there are no embeddable versions of this video anywhere on the interweb, so a link to the clip will have to suffice this time: Adam Lambert, "Mad World"]

7 Katharine Mcphee, “Somewhere Over The Rainbow”

I had Mcphever from the get go. I became a true fan when she nearly crossed the “how slutty is too slutty?’ line with the yellow, “I Have Nothing” dress. This song was a truly great performance, though. Feel her pain as she grabs her neck and tosses her hair (and rips her dress). And the emotion – what an actress.  Check it out.

6.  David Archuleta, “Imagine”

Ah, Archie. The original nugget. Totally great. Except for the wildly creepy Dad. This performance was one of his best, and Paula’s critique is nearly undecipherable. God, I miss her already.

5. Jennifer Hudson, “Circle of Life”

Rise up, child. Rise up, zebra. Rise up baby Simba. This was amazing. And It was obvious there were bigger songs still to come for this supreme diva.

4. Tamyra Gray, “A House Is Not A Home”

Remember her? In addition to being the skinniest person in the world that’s not Kate Moss, Tamyra Gray nearly beat Shelly out for the Season 1 crown. Luckily, that tragedy was averted. She has a gnarly voice, regardless. This was particularly incredible.

3. Kris Allen, “Heartless”

Yes, it really was that good. This song is the reason Kris Allen won American Idol; everything about it is perfect.  Acoustic guitar + crystal clear nugget voice = recipe for a victory.

2. Carrie Underwood , “Making Love Out of Nothing At All”

I know I’ve given this Stepford wife a hard time lately, but I do like her. She sure is purdy and she’s got a terrific voice. A tad sharp at times, but that’s just because she lacks Shelly’s years of training. I almost picked “Alone,” because I think that was the song that made Carrie the one to beat in Season 4, but this Air Supply cover has always been my favorite. Plus, we get one of the best glory notes ever on Idol at the end of this tune.

1. Kelly Clarkson, “Stuff Like That There”

What did you expect? Norman Gentle? Of course Shelly is #1. But even when I take my fanboy costume off (it’s so tight, so hard to get off), this would still be number one. It’s hard to select from her assortment of flawless vocal performances, but this one – which came during Big Band week – is definitely the best of the best, the bomb diggity. Click it. Hear it. Love it.

Yo YO! Don’t forget to watch the American Music Awards tonight on ABC. I’ll have some thoughts on the show tomorrow, but in the meantime here’s a shot of my two favorite nuggets on the AMA red carpet. Shelly & Kris FTW!

While we are still a couple of months away from that wonderful time of year when Idol returns to disgust and delight the masses, I would be remiss if I didn’t give a little update on the biggest names from Season 8.

Let’s start with last year’s little nugget winner, Kris Allen. Ah, Kris. If there’s one thing I’ll remember about you & your run on American Idol, it’s the aprons. Dentists squealed with glee (new episode tonight!), as toothaches broke out all across America after being introduced to Kris and his equally sachharin-flavored wife, Katy. Check out the photo for yourself and keep reading after the jump.

Coincidentally, Mr. Allen’s first post-Idol album, cleverly titled Kris Allen, dropped yesterday. You can buy it wherever albums are sold. So, unless you are one of the nine people visiting music stores, head on over to iTunes to purchase your copy. If you want proof that it’s worth the investment, preview the entire album here, courtesy of AOL Music’s full CD listening party.

I’ll be back later in the week with updates on the enigma that is Adam Lambert and the Clarkson-esque Allison Irahata. Please note that if you are looking for updates on Danny Gokey, you will not find such updates here at The Lamp Post. Allow me to suggest visiting www.ThingsThatAreTrashyAndTerrible.com.

And in vintage American Idol news, the show’s first ever champion (and still best) has been nominated for Rolling Stone’s Artist of the Decade Award. You can vote for Miss. Sharkson by clicking here. Go Shelly!