Phillip Phillips is new 'American Idol'

Phillip Phillips won the 'American Idol' singing contest Wednesday night.

LOS ANGELES— Bluesy guitar man Phillip Phillips is the new "American Idol," defeating teenage songbird Jessica Sanchez.

Phillips, a 21-year-old pawn shop worker from Leesburg, Ga., received more viewer votes than 16-year-old Sanchez of Chula Vista, Calif.

Phillips' victory Wednesday extended the "American Idol" winning streak for males to five consecutive seasons. The last female to win was 17-year-old Jordin Sparks in 2007.

During the three-song showdown Tuesday between Phillips and Sanchez, the show's judges praised his performance across the board. Sanchez was faulted for a lackluster rendition of her final song, "Change Nothing."

Phillips, who was a top vote-getter throughout the season, gets a recording contract along with bragging rights.