Lauren Alaina is first out of the box with a new single, even though the 16-year-old Chattanooga, Tenn. native, finished second on Fox’s “American Idol” behind booming baritone Scotty McCreery. The song, “Like My Mother Does” premiered today.

It was a tough year for women on Idol’s 10th season. Most went out in the early rounds, but Alaina persisted thanks to her soaring vocals. But in the end, they may have been her undoing.

Going into the finale, Alaina blew out her vocal cords and lost her voice. Some emergency medical attention and probably lots of voice rest saved her from dropping out.

The episode heightened some of the drama of the final face off, but McCreery, also a country-oriented artist, captured more fan hearts.

Check out Lauren’s new song; click to listen.

Still, Alaina had a chance to showcase her talent in a duet with another American Idol winner, Carrie Underwood, who is perhaps the most successful idol winner ever.

Only Jennifer Hudson, who has already won an Oscar for her role in “Dream Girls” has had more success, but she did not win the competition.

That should put Lauren in good stead. Country artists have also done the best after the show.

Alaina and Underwood sang “Before He Cheats,” off of the country star’s debut album Some Hearts. It was the fifth release from the album overall.

Check out the duet below, and listen to Lauren’s new song above. Even though she finished second, Lauren is going to be first in the hearts of lots of fans.