The middle of November has always been a popular time for American Idol winners to release their debut albums. This week in Idol history, Carrie Underwood, David Cook, Kris Allen, and Jordin Sparks released their post-Idol albums, and Lee DeWyze joins this talented group now with his release of Live It Up.

On November 15, 2005, Carrie Underwood released her debut album, Some Hearts. The album has been certified platinum an amazing seven times by the RIAA. It was not only the number one selling album of the year, it also became the best selling debut album by a solo female country music artist in history and the best selling album by an American Idol alumnus. Some Hearts won every award it was nominated for at the ACMs, Billboard Music Awards, and the AMAs.

November 16th has always been a big day for Season 2 runner-up Clay Aiken. The day marked his first American Music Award win in 2003. Then on the same day in 2004, Clay released his holiday album, Merry Christmas With Love, which set the record as the fastest-selling holiday CD. He also released his book that day, and it debuted at #2 on the NY Times Bestseller list.

Season 8’s American Idol, Kris Allen, released his self-titled post-American Idol album on November 17, 2009. The album made it to #11 on the Billboard 200 and produced the popular single, “Live Like We’re Dying,” which received a Platinum certification by the RIAA on October 15, 2010.

David Cook released his self-titled post-American Idol album on November 18, 2008. The album was certified Platinum by the RIAA and made it to #2 on the Billboard Top Rock Albums and #3 on the Billboard 200. The Season 7 champ is currently recording his next album.

Season 6’s American Idol, Jordin Sparks, released her self-titled debut album on November 20, 2007. One year later, the album was certified Platinum. The album included the hit singles “Tattoo,” “One Step at a Time,” and “No Air.”

On November 21, 2006, Season 5 star Chris Daughtry released a self-titled album with his band, Daughtry. The album is the fastest selling debut rock album in Soundscan history! It soared to #1 on the Billboard 200 and Billboard Top Rock Albums charts. Seven top singles have been released from Daughtry.

Who is celebrating a birthday this week? Season 5’s Ace Young and Season 1’s Ryan Starr.

See all this and more on the American Idol Calendar.