Okay, I'm sure it was just a coincidence, but that was the name of a guy who had a very bad audition. Does anyone know what the fantastic comic book artist Pacheo looks like? If you have a picture, could you post it? I'd love to know if it was him. I doubt it. But who knows?
Does anyone watch AI? The singer in me loves the darn show...
Ha ha I saw that! I was watching bits of Smallville, Apprentice, and AI all at the same time but I did manage to catch Carlos singing badly. I've never watched a full episode of AI - do they have age limits or whatever? I wonder how old the comic drawin' Carlos is...
24 is the age limit on AI.
I noticed that too, Dean... I'm really wondering if it was him!
I never watched AI before this season and I was INSTANTLY hooked from the first 10 minutes of episode 1!
I'm always so happy (for them) when someone makes it through...!
Carlos lives in a small village in Spain, and he's at least in his thirties. Sorry, guys.
I felt bad for that kid who did "She Bangs" -- but at least he was upbeat about the whole thing, and didn't go off whining or griping. I think he probably realized that, although he really wanted to sing, he didn't really have the talent for it.
Heh - I've seen a total of 15 minutes of American Idol, and the Carlos Pacheco moment was one of them... Freaky. It's like I knew there would be comic-book related stuff on the tube or something geeky like that...
Forget about Carlos. What about Diana Degarmo from Georgia? Anyone else recognize the last name? Got anything to tell us Kid Prime?
Originally posted by The much-beloved STU:
I felt bad for that kid who did "She Bangs" -- but at least he was upbeat about the whole thing, and didn't go off whining or griping. I think he probably realized that, although he really wanted to sing, he didn't really have the talent for it.
Is that the guy with the incredibly large forehead?!? He's a civ engineer from my alma mater! Ha ha ha, I think he's the most famous student there, at least for a coupla days. Johnny Moseley is a freshman there now after all...
did you listen to him before he sang, he was saying that he was a big fan of music which people find strange because he's a civ engineer.
HUH?? what does that mean?
I don't remember what he said exactly but maybe its cause engineers (ME, Civ, Electrical, etc.) at Berkeley have a tendency for being overly focused on all things engineering (i.e. not Ricky Martin songs). Interestingly, the population of Berkeley engineers is also disproportionately populated with Asian Males who sing badly. Hmm...
i thought all asians loved music, thats why bands that were once populer go over to japan and other asian countries because the asians are transfixed on what was once populer. I find his statement kinda ridiculous, funny but ridiculous.
That kid has got to be the most popular of the "bad" auditions, this year! The way he did his arm movements in time with the outta tune "SHE BANGS SHE BANGS!" SO FUNNY! THEN, he confesses to never having any musical training! Such innocence is priceless!
I'm REALLY enjoying AMERICAN IDOL!
Okay, it shouldn't surprise anyone that I love "SCOOTER GIRL" because, well, she's cute as heck but most importantly FUNNY and full of personality! Simon had a valid point though-- is she a good singer who's funny or a comedian with a nice voice? Also, the chick who called Simon gay most DEFinitely had the best originally-written song of the ones I heard. Good stuff. Simon TOLD her to come back as a bitch, didn't he? She did as he said to do.
On the guy's side, I was glad the red-headed guy made it through. Though he forgot his original song, the melody of the 2 lines he remembered was VERY different from the norm and I quite liked it. The model guy is hyper-cute but he's GOT to be making it through on 80% looks.
Originally posted by Lightning Lad:
Forget about Carlos. What about Diana Degarmo from Georgia? Anyone else recognize the last name? Got anything to tell us Kid Prime? She's
almost as cute.
Originally posted by Lightning Lad:
Forget about Carlos. What about Diana Degarmo from Georgia? Anyone else recognize the last name? Got anything to tell us Kid Prime? Oh my GOD, she's my cousin. I had no idea about this.
Really? That's so cool! Now there is a reason to watch the show. And I have someone to cheer for.
GO DeGARMO FAMILY!
I honestly don't know her well at all. Messy divorce thing. I might have seen her 5 times in the past 15 years.
Still, I know she's talented and beautiful. I can't believe I haven't been watching this show now. (I also can't believe no one from my family has told me about this, but it just goes to show you how estranged we are.)
So Diana made it to the final 32! And she'll be on the first show of eight performers next week. We all need to vote for her.
I dunno. With the dumping of Scootergirl from the show and not allowing her to make the top 32, I think Simon & Co. have lost some credibility with me...
Yeay, I really expected her to make it through to the next round. And that 16 year old red head, I expected him to be dropped. I didn't care for any of his performances.
See, though, the redheaded boy is the guy I'm cheering for, so I'm glad he made it. I *did* expect him to be dropped, though.
With Scootergirl gone, I think I'll be transferring my femme-affection to that purple-haired chick. She's good.
Like 'em young do you Lash?
I'm going to cheer for Jeff's cousin Diana. Her and Brie, the skinny, spiky-haired girl. I like her.
I'm still amazed that I didn't know about this. Of course, her #!+@# of a mother and "manager" hasn't really let her interact with any of the DeGarmos since her divorce from my uncle (and Diana was only like 2 at the time.) And she's like half my age. So I don't really know her at all. I guess if she does well, I'll get to know her along with everyone else in America.
Kinda makes me think.
Go Purple-haired chick!
BRING BACK SCOOTERGIRL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Here's a
webpage that features Jeff's cousin and the other seven contestants that will square off next week!
And here's Diana's
personal page .
Her favorite male pop artist is Justin Timberlake, and her favorite female pop artist is Celine Dion. And she traveled all the way to Hawaii to audition!
![[Linked Image]](http://www.idolonfox.com/contestants/diana_degarmo/images/mainpic_dianad.jpg)
I watched almost every episode of AI last season, taping the ones I couldn't be home to see. This year, I've decided to not be so indulgent. If I'm home and there's nothing else going on, I'll watch. I've already missed a couple of episodes. I do really like the show, though, and look forward to the upcoming performances I get to see.
Congrats and good luck to your family KP!
Will Hung, the guy who did "She Bangs," now has his own
website !
He's appeared in US Weekly, the L.A. Times, and will be on Entertainment Tonight tomorrow night as well. I guess not making it on American Idol was the best thing ever to happen to him!
I especially liked all the remixes of his version of "She Bangs" (especially the one with the Devastator sound bite from the Transformers TV show)...
Diana's on American Idol
tonight! 8:00 Eastern/Pacific (I think 7:00 Central).
![[Linked Image]](http://www.idolonfox.com/newsletter/images/pic1_0209.jpg)
I missed the William Hung Berkeley concert!?! I was like 15 minutes away! *cries so hard*
Well, I caught Diana tonight on AI.
Wow! She's a little ball of energy for 16!
I'll be voting, but that goes without saying. I hope she goes on!
Diana Degarmo WAS quite good! Her name just SOUNDS like a star, doesn't it?
I was impressed with ALL the ladies tonight. The guys... well, they were all kinda cookie-cutter to me.
I'd have an impossible time choosing between Diana, Fantasia, the "Crazy" girl, the "Imagine" girl and the "Wam, Bam Alakazam" girl.... they were all so good.
Diana all the way! We still have 15 minutes to go here but most of the others didn't even come close to matching Diana's performance. All very bland and I have to agree with the judges in that they picked songs that were 'safe'. I mean, Wind Beneath My Wings? Give me a break.
Diana was FANTASTIC.
And all three of the judges LOVED her! That's pretty rare. I hope she'll be voted on to the next round, but even if she isn't, I think the judges will really try to push her through to the top 10 as a wild card. (Wasn't Clay and/or Kelly a wild card?)
GO DIANA!
After having seen the whole episode, I gotta say -- as a whole, this was a talented group. I'd be surprised if the other three groups were uniformly this good.
I think Diana and Fantasia are clearly the ones who deserve to go to the next round, and maybe one or two of the others as wild cards. Almost everyone had a great voice, but a lot of the others just didn't have that indefinable "star" quality, because they were bland in either their choice of songs, their singing style, or just their overall presentation.
The guy on E! just predicted that Diana and Fantasia would advance forward and that the "Wam Bam Alakazam" girl would be brought back as a Wild Card.
He also agreed with me that the ladies were HOT and the guys were definitely NOT.
Just over an hour until I find out who America chose...!
BRING BACK SCOOTERGIRL!!!!!!
GONGRATS to Fantasia & Diana!!!
And, hello...? Did that guy make it through to 3rd place on his looks because no WAY was he better than ANY of the ladies.
GO DIANA!!!
Lee and I were jumping up and down and up and down! I'm so proud of her!
YAY DIANA!!
And I agree with Lash. None of the guys deserved to make third place.
Cool! Congratulations to
Diana and Fantasia!
Now, on to the Top 10!
Yay! I saw the performance show, but not the results! I'm pleased with the choices. I LOVED Fantasia!
*uuuggh!* Tonight's episode was pretty painful. I was thoroughly unimpressed with MOST of the singers.
One of my picks from the get-go was the first performer, the big football-player guy. Loved his voice.
My second pick... I dunno. A tossup between the redheaded girl who sang Mary J. Blige or the Hawaiian girl.
The football player guy is the ONLY one of the eight tonight whom I can honestly say I flat-out liked.
"Rose Bowl Guy" has a nice voice, but... is it just me, or does he look like he's about 10 years older than he says he is?!
This week's group was HORRIBLE overall. It irritates me that those two brothers even got in. They totally robbed two deserving people of their spots. Hopefully, American Idol has learned their lesson and will never go for nepotism again.
Sure does help Diana, though!
Originally posted by Kid Prime:
It irritates me that those two brothers even got in. They totally robbed two deserving people of their spots.
I didn't consider this. Scootergirl, who was full of personality and had a great voice got passed over for THIS...!!??
This show seemed like it belonged on next Monday's special of rejects. Matthew, the first one to perform was someone I like originally, as was Brie. I think they both sold out their musical integrity to try and please the judges, neither of them performing their kind of music.
And I'm in agreement over the brothers. They had no talent and should not have made it this far. I would have much rather seen Scootergirl make it. Too bad she can't be chosen for a wildcard position. Its obvious none of last night's performers derserves a slot.
Originally posted by Lightning Lad:
I would have much rather seen Scootergirl make it. Too bad she can't be chosen for a wildcard position.
She CAN'T? But Ryan Seacrest said that for the Wildcard show, ANYone from ANY point of the show could be brought back... I'm looking for her to be one...
But any point of the show is suppose to mean any of the 32 contestants who made it to the final rounds of chosing the top 12, like we are doing now. All the shows before last week are just fodder for ratings. We'll not see them again except in specials like the one this coming Monday or if they try out again next year.
At least that's the way it work last season.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
She CAN'T? But Ryan Seacrest said that for the Wildcard show, ANYone from ANY point of the show could be brought back...
Yeah -- he said even Will Hung could be brought back!
Originally posted by STU:
Originally posted by MLLASH:
[b]She CAN'T? But Ryan Seacrest said that for the Wildcard show, ANYone from ANY point of the show could be brought back...
Okay, I missed that then. Maybe Scootergirl was left out on purpose to make a dramatic wildcard appearance. Ratings stunts. Who can figure 'em.
Yeah. I figure having brothers in the semi-finals -- and in the same group of eight -- has GOT to be for the sake of ratings...
Yeah, it was pretty bad last night. I had never heard the brothers before, but had gotten the impression that they were good. Guess not! I'm hoping for the redhead and the Hawaiian girl. I'm not 100% sure the judges can't go back and pick someone from before the 32 cut. I don't see why not.
William Hung was on Ellen yesterday, singing between segments. Ellen said she admires his attitude. I wonder if he gets the joke? That even though he seems to be having fun, it is his terrible singing that is getting the laughs? I hope he doesn't think he's a good singer. I hope he realizes that he's out there being a clown.
"American Idol" is shown in the UK also [ but it's on a time, i don't usually get to see .... ]
but !!! i'll try and lookout for the next time Diana is on !!! this is cool news KP !!!
you must be really proud !!!
Matthew.
Yeah Dean, funny how Will Hung has become a celebrity now... EVERYone knows who he is. Most of those who made it to the Top 32 will fade back into obscurity but he's known all over.
Okay, so big cute funny cuddly Football Boy made the cut, as I guessed he would.
I'll admit yesterday my second choice was a tossup between red-haired Lisa and Hawaiian Camille. But when they announced Camille as the winner and she started crying and she sang that song again and her Mom started crying, *I* also teared up!! Something else else about her made me really WANT to like her and made me happy she was picked. So that's good I guess, that she can inspire that feeling in people.
I liked the quality her voice brought to that sad li'l teeny-bopper 'One Last Cry' song.
Not me, I had to watch the show with the wife, and i thought the best of the night was the redhead. Why she frumped up for tonights show was a mystery to me, cause she sang great and looked great last night. If this is an example of America's taste, man am i glad this is the only one of the shows i have ever watched. Those people were crap for the most part. The redhead had the best voice, and performed better than the others.
And god willing this is the last time i will ever have to watch that show, lol.
My vote's on Matt being the first one of the 12 cut. Of course, last year, that creepy marine guy (was Josh his name?) stayed in for a while, so anything can happen.
I kind of had a feeling it was going to be Matt and Camille. I kind of feel bad about Lisa, as I thought she did a very nice job. Still, neither of these two are in the same league as Fantasia and Diana IMHO.
And Ultra-Matt... I AM proud! I just wish I had really known her better before now.
Originally posted by Kid Prime:
Still, neither of these two are in the same league as Fantasia and Diana IMHO.
I totally agree. Neither of tonight's winners has a chance to win the competition.
Still, no one should be surprised if Simon signs Camille anyway.
Damn cable box. The channel on it didn't change so my TiVo thought it was recording Fox but it wasn't.
So I know which one Matt is but which one is Camille? The blonde who is always blaming some ailment or something for her performance or the raven short-haired one who went last on last night's show?
Camille is the native Hawaiian girl.
Thanks Lash. Forgot about her. Of course most of them were forgettable. I hope next week's batch is better.
How much do you all think the voters are affected by what the judges say? Has the public vote traditionally followed the judges' praise or criticism pretty closely?
I dunno.
The judges were spot-on predicting Diana & Fantasia last week, but missed the boat somewhat this week predicting Lisa and Camille. They underestimated the charm of large, cute football-playing crooners who hug Ryan Seacrest.
Next week looks to be MUCH better-- the pink-haired chick is singing, plus the "pen salesman" and the blonde chick who worked it with the pink-haired girl singing "Young Hearts Run Free".
Some inCREDible performances tonight!!!
The final 3 will be: AMY (pink hair), LEAH and LATOYA (the last 2 performers).
Eric was the best of the guys, I thought. Finished BIG after a shaky start.
My only gripe was that last night was WAY heavy on the Whitney & Celine.
But I guess those songs are the songs you choose if ou really want to belt something out.
Still, I find myself leaning more toward Fantasia (from Round 1) than Latoya, simply because she chose a different type of song-- 'Something else else to Talk About'-- and made it her own.
Whatever-- the finale is going to be MASSIVE, MONOLITHIC, BIG, man, BIG!!! A knock-down, drag-out!!
The thing I liked about Latoya was that of all the Whitney/Celine wannabes, she was the only one thus far with the pipes and the artistry to back it up. Go LATOYA! If not for Diana, she would totally be my favorite in this competition thus far.
Where are the guys that can sing? Surely some of them auditioned, but I don't think we've heard one truly awesome male voice yet this competition. I would just call Eric and Jon Peter passable.
Diana is still by far my favorite, Latoya (if she changes her name) a distant second. And if they don't start singing some upbeat songs and break away from the Whitney/Celine crap I'm going to scream.
Originally posted by Kid Prime:
The thing I liked about Latoya was that of all the Whitney/Celine wannabes, she was the only one thus far with the pipes and the artistry to back it up. Go LATOYA!
Amy (who went on to the next round) had the pipes to back it up.
Leah (who I find it difficult to believe lost out to the Pen Salesman) had the artistry.
Anyhoo, I was pleased with tonight's results.
I'm looking forward to next week. Maybe instead of the Whitney/Celine stuff, they'll dig a bit deeper. Anita Baker, anyone?
Don't forget, the UNCUT, UNCENSORED, UNTALENTED special is on tonight! William Hung will be there... won't you join him?
I'm not really sure... I think tonight's show has been the hardest of any for me to pick...
For sure, I liked the Hawaiian girl... she did a great job on 'Run to You', a VERY difficult song...
for my second choice I'm just not sure...
Suzy (singer # 1) had a good strong voice; 'the "Old" guy' (sang ALWAYS & FOREVER) just has a really likeable quality about him... and I still like the red-headed guy... I agreed with Simon re: the last singer, whom Randy & Paula loved-- I thought her performance was a mess.
I just don't know who my second pick is...
So far this season, the girls have been generally much better than the guys.
I wonder if we'll have a top 12 that's 10 girls and two guys? Wouldn't bother me none...
But only one guy has made it through... we may have 11 girls and 1 guy.
And then-- the WILDCARD show!
BRING BACK SCOOTERGIRL!!!!!!!!!!
YAY Jazmin!
And yay John! As I told my co-workers today-- never underestmate the popularity of mellow music-- Norah Jones' debut sold 7-million plus, after all...
Looks like Ryan Seacrest LIED about ANYone being a wildcard! It WAS just people from the top 32! It isn't the first time a hot guy has lied to me and shattered my world!!! Of them all, I think I'm most excited that whats-her-name, Jennifer?-- from the first 8, who sang "Imagine" is coming back-- I liked her.
I sincerely hope everyone will continue to support my little cousin Diana. She's got a great chance to get pretty far in the final 12, I think!
Diana is still my favorite. No one even comes in as a close second. She'll be getting our vote every week.
A 2-HOUR AMIdol Tuesday night as the 12 finalists go to WAR!
Should be good!
WHAT a great show!!!
My top 4 favorites (in order of appearance)
Jon Peter ("pen salesman") -- What an adorable talented dork! I love him!
Fantasia -- Even if she loses, she'll go far.
Jazmin -- Stunningly beautiful & talented!
Diana -- she ROCKS the house and is every bit as talented as Fantasia!
And for the record, I expect (based on performance) either "redhead" John or Leah to go home, with Leah being the higher probability. (John did win the popular vote the night of his round and normally I really like him).
I agree with you Lash. Its either John or Leah going home this week.
I also agree that Diana ROCKED! Perfect choice to end the show with.
The other performers I liked tonight were Fantasia, Jon Peter and George.
Leah is from my area, so I was hoping she'd make it further. Oh well.
This is such an interesting group of contestants. I really like LaToya, Fantasia and George. I really feel it when they perform. However, Jazmin and Diana are great, too. I like redheaded John. I hope he sticks with his personal style. Matt's fun, but I wish he'd tone it down a bit. I don't really care for Amy or Jennifer, not that they're bad or anything, just not that interesting to me. My son thinks JP looks like a Hobbitt! LOL! I can't look at him otherwise, now!
I still can't get over how well 16-year old Diana belted out that Aretha Franklin tune. Damn.
Funniest thing I read tonight: Some monkeyspanker on the AI MB calling sure-to-make-top-5 contestant Fantasia Barrino Fantasia Burrito. (no, he isn't a fan of hers)
John Stevens was TERRIBLE tonight. If he doesn't go after THAT performance, there's a serious problem here.
This is the first season I'm watching AI and I have to wonder, are the only words in Randy's vocabulary "Yo!" and "Dawg!" and "Yo dawg!"?
Randy's a buffoon. He's educated but trying to be "steet" and it looks ridiculous.
As for john Stevens NOT being in the bottom 3 and Amy going instead of him-- something stinks on AI-World.
They need to change the voting system to 1 vote per phone-line or something...
Is John Stevens the Conan O'Brien Jr. look-alike? He hasn't been all that great but neither has that Camille chick.
I never get to see the Wednesday shows! So, Amy got the boot, eh? I'm sticking with my top three: Latoya, Fantasia and George. It doesn't matter to me which order the rest go. However, I'll hope for Diana to be #4 for LegionWorld devotion.
Lash, I used to hang out at the AI mb last year, but there were just too many threads to keep up with. I was overwhelmed. There are a lot of "haters" there, too. Some funny stuff, too. I don't like the current format, really.
I've got this nagging feeling like AI is getting played out. The judges are saying the same things over and over again. Their personas are so established. The singers are a mixed bag, which is a good thing, but we're starting to get repeated songs. Jasmine did a great rendition of You're All I Need, but Kelly Clarkson did that one two years ago, a lot better. I realize that it's probably impossible to prevent repeats of songs, but I'm saying that maybe as this happens more and more, the freshness of the series is ending. All IMO.
Yeah Dean, the AI board is fun to surf but I wouldn't wanna POST there!
We're in SINGLE digits now! Time to get serious! Let's rate tonight's performances from top to bottom!
1. GEORGE. The guy gets better every week. No one else can claim that. He ruled tonight.
2. JENNIFER. Best performance since her first one, "Imagine" weeks ago.
3. LATOYA. Gave me goosebumps.
4. DIANA. Slightly off-key, a first for her. Paula saved her by saying "I know you are sick...". Diana has strep. Hope she gets over it ASAP. Despite all this, she gave 110% and LOOKED incredible. HUBBA!
5. FANTASIA. Frankly, I'm getting tired of her ending EVERY SONG with "yeah yeah yeah" and I think I liked her voice better the first time I heard it on Macy Gray. Still good but not AS good as before.
6. JPL. I disagreed with the judges. I liked his performace of "Rocket Man".
7. CAMILE. I *adore* her; she is by far my favorite of the top 9; she's the Lucinda Williams amongst a bunch of Whitneys, Mariahs and Christinas. But I can't deny that her "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" started off BAD-- though it ended up good.
8. JASMINE. A GREAT start ended up going to pitchy hell. A shame.
9. JOHN S. Painful to watch. I felt sorry for him.
Now, since John S. has given 2 godawful performances in a row, I'd expect him to go home tomorrow... but since he wasn't even bottom 3 last week after he DESTROYED "My Girl"... who KNOWS who will be leaving tomorow?
Sorry, but Camile has got to go. Her performance tonight was the worst. I can't understand why she and Jasmine are still there. Or John. When they said this was the best set of finalists ever someone must have been on drugs. Fantasia, Diana and George. That's the final 3. Latoya and Jennifer are okay too. The rest have got to go. Soon.
And what the hell happened last week? They kicked off Amy? I miss a week and the person who kicked ass in the country competition is gone? I guess it goes to show just how well voting blocks work.
Yep-- Amy was voted out last week after John S. did a HORRIBLE job (again!) and KNEW he should have been gone. But he wasn't even bottom 3; it was a freakin' joke.
What's going against Fantasia: Her voice's similarity to Macy Gray; her perceived lack of class and her perceived "attitude".
What's going against Diana: It is painfully obvious that Simon flat-out just doesn't like her, which I think sucks.
What's going against Jennifer: She's already been in the bottom 3 TWICE- America just doens't seem to like her.
What's going against JPL: I like the guy, but he DOES need some lessons.
What's going against Camile: Rough-to-angelic pitches (I personally like it) are disliked by bulk of online AI fans; liklihood that most of Hawaii might switch votes to Jasmine.
What's going against John S.: He sucks big fat donkey ass.
So I can see the final 3 being Latoya, George and Jasmine.
It's still early.
(to be fair)
What's going against George: Online AI fans consider him "goofy", "childlike" and then the question of his sexuality has come up...
What's going against Jasmine: 2 recent pitchy performances (Country night & tonight) and the possibility that Hawaii could switch votes to the hipper Camile.
What's going against Latoya: Vote-split among the 4 femme soul singers; Latoya has been in the bottom 3 once already
Hey everyone! Check out the song the performance that earned Camile a place in the final 12!
Camile Velasco
Well, I almost agree with the results tonight. Though how red-head was safe again I'll never figure out.
If this was about personalities like Seacrest kept spouting then why has Diana been in the bottom 3 twice and not John? He has all the personality of a dead mouse. He must be getting the over 70 vote.
I'm not too sad about Camile; it really was her time and she has NOTHING to be ashamed of.
And Scott; a theory on the AI boards thinks that John S, JPL and Fantasia were the TOP 3 votegetters (which group was top 3 and which was mid-3 was never actually revealed). SCARY, huh?
Enough to give me nightmares Lash. *shudder*
I don't like the way George does that bobble head/bouncing thing and JPLs creepy attempt at dancing makes me wish a large light fixture would fall from the ceiling and temporarily immobilize his dancin' legs. I'm surprised that other Hawaiian girl Jasmine is doing so badly. Does it cost anything to call those numbers and vote?
Voting is free.
George's ridiculous and annoying boucning up and down is whatkeeps him from getting my full support.
I myself have decided to throw my support behind JASMINE for the incredibly classy and touching show of support she gave Camile after she was voted out. "The hug heard 'round the world"!
I can't remember the last time I was so moved. And she's no slouch in the voice department either.
YAY JASMINE!!!!! and GOOD LUCK CAMILE, I'll miss you!
I missed the performances but saw the elimination show... It does seem right that Camile should go. It's weird the way they did the three groups thing. I don't think I like knowing the standings. Jasmin's performance on Wednesday seemed good to me. I suppose if it was pitchier on Tuesday, it could be rough to listen to... Tamyra's song was nice.
This year, I watch the show when I can, but I don't re-arrange my schedule for it, and I don't ask my family to tape it for me.
I just read an article in a local paper about Kelly Clarkson and Clay Aiken's tour. The writer pretty much slammed them as being irrelevant. I had a problem with that train of thought. I think that a singing contest like AI, which breeds new pop stars is perfectly relevant in today's society. The songs done throughout the competition generally bring about feelings of nostalgia. Sometimes the new renditions of them can revitalize the song, like Clay's "Bridge over Troubled Waters." I'd forgotten how much I liked that song. I've always liked pop music. A vocal minority always seems ready to pounce upon the biggest stars of pop. I suppose it's part of the package.
hmm. That writer needs a reality check.
How can Kelly and Clay (or ANY of them really) be "irrelevant" with the millions of fans they have...? AI is one of (if not THE) most-watched shows on TV.
I don't think their contracts with AI leave much room for them to do their own songs yet, but that time will come (IF they are indeed capable of writing their own songs).
Here, I'm not hearing any Clay but Kelly's song MISS INDEPENDENT is getting heavy airplay.
So depsite what that writer says, I'll make sure I'm watching Tues & Weds night!
There's been a lot of talk about the President pre-empting AI tonight! I'll be at work, so I'm missing all of it, but I do think it's funny that so many people seem bummed that they have to watch the President instead of Idol! Yikes!
Yeah, Lash, I'd thought about writing a letter to the person who wrote that article, but as I composed it in my mind, I made peace with the whole thing and felt done with it.
Kelly at least co-wrote some of the songs on her album. I don't know about Clay.
From the AI site--
The performances will be WEDS night and the results show THURS night this week.
Yeah, at 7:00 pm. Putting the results show up against Survivor.
Guess I'll be skipping SURVIVOR this week! (I've missed the last few eps anyway, although I've been keeping up with it; I know Jerri & Lex have gone bye-bye...)
AI has my primary TV love! All else is secondary!
To me it would only be a problem if it was the competition portion. The results show is too drawn out. I'm so tired of Seacrest and his "Right after this message" crap. They take what should be 15 minutes and stretch it into an hour.
And I always wonder why, when its the person who got the least amount of votes, we would want to hear them sing again? I mean, isn't that why they are being kicked off? Because we didn't want to hear them to begin with? I think the top vote getter should be the one who gets to do their song again. Rub it in the loser's face. Hey, life is tough.
I think the idea is to give the loser a final chance to sing for their fans, which is nice.
I'm a bit concerned about tonight's results show...
I thought EVERYone did well last night-- yes, even red-headed John Stevens-- with George giving the weakest performance of the gang.
But he's gotten consistently better each week (with the exception of last night) and has never been in bottom 3, so he'll be fine tonight.
I have a bad feeling either Diana or Jasmine is going home tonight... if it's one of the power-divas, it'll be Jennifer...
(I don't even consider John S or JPL candidates for going home this week-- despite several "iffy" -- and in the case of John S, downright terrible-- performances, neither has ever been bottom 3 and both were "ON" last night)
It will be interesting to see who is in bottom 3 tonight... (I figure Diana, Jasmine and...? WHO ?)
ps/ I thought Quentin Tarentino came off like a Simon-wannabee dickhead, being unneccesarily harsh to those he didn't like (to Diana: "So you hit all the notes, so what?") and gushing over those he favors despite a lesser-than-usual performance (to George: "You made me forget I hate that song!")
I hope you're wrong Lash and we've seen the last of either John.
I agree that was George's weakest performanace. And is it me or do these kids seem to take slow songs and make them even slower? He need to be a little more up tempo on it.
I think now that either Fantasia or Latoya will win. After their performances last night they appear to be the most deserving and the most ready for it. George is still my pick to round out the final three. Sorry, but Diana has started to show she needs some more time being a kid first. Too many children this year on the show. Maybe they need to raise the age limit for eligibility.
I absolutely agree the minimum age limit should be RAISED to 18 for AI.
WOW. I'm kind of floored.
What? Spill. Survivor is just starting so we're missing AI.
The bottom 3 were called out--
Diana, JPL and John Stevens. This marked the first appearance for both JPL and John S in the bottom 3, and was Diana's third appearance in the bottom.
So I was a bit surprised when Diana was sent back to the couch and safety, leaving either JPL or John S to go home!
Turns out JPL got the lowest votes last night.
He really cut up tonight doing 'Jailhouse Rock', and sang it among the audience. He had 'em revved up.
I'm floored that: a) Diana didn't go home (I'm glad she's still there) and b) John S outlasted JPL
Is there NO getting rid of carrot top???
Some wit on the AI board called JPL "a hard hobbit to break". *tee hee!* S'funny 'cause it's true!
You know what happened don't you? His Mormon voting block was confused by the move to Wednesday and didn't call in to support him. He's the only one our Fox channel would talk about.
Dang, I wish I could have seen Fantasia's performance. Anyone got link? I think my brother taped it...
My son always laughs at JPL when he performs, so I can never hear him anyway. The hobbit comparison has been going on in our house for a long time. The Norwegian guy from World Idol looked like JPL, like a hobbit. He won the title. I wonder if we Americans were sorta keeping JPL in there for this long in order to somewhat emulate that?
Nah. The guy who won the World Idol actually had talent.
Argh I missed it!?! I saw Mamma Mia so I guess I traded one performance for another. Its funny though, I thought the Johns were much more deserving to go in previous weeks - I thought JPL was okay (dancing excluded) and pasty John was fine cause he was doing his thing. Is it just me or does pasty John look like he's gonna cry during every results show?
I think this was Diana's worst performance - I kept cringing when she hit the notes off key. Jasmine hasn't been wowing me lately but I think someone said it best when they suggested that she'll get more of the Hawaiian votes now that that other girl is gone...
There's a yahoo group that has links to the AI3 performance mp3's but they're only up to date to the Elton John night. That was last week, right? I'm sure they'll be getting the movie music ones up there, soon. I'll post the link when I go there again.... It was cool to get to listen to some of the performances I'd missed. I was also very impressed with Clay's "Solitaire."
I don't think Diana was off-key, not to my ears at least. But I did despise her choice of song.
Remember how awesome she was doing Aretha's "Think"...? She needs to get back to something like that!
They all need to be a little more upbeat. What was it that Quentin said to Fantasia? He wants to hear her rock again? I'm so tired of slow songs I could puke.
I never watched seasons 1 or 2, what other theme days are there? Were they the same for season 1 and 2? I'd love to see an 80s new wave episode or a perhaps an opera episode. kidding. mostly.
I'd **LOVE** a 70s OR 80s night, myself! Alas, next week is... Barry Manilow night. *sigh*
This is my first season for AI too, so I dunno what previous seasons theme nights were...
In the first season, they had 60's, 70's and 80's nights. Kelly Clarkson always did a great job. She had a fair mix of ballads and more rockin' numbers.
Last season, they didn't so much have the same decade style themes, but they did have a disco night and a Motown night, etc. Ruben always did a great job.
Song selection is a HUGE factor in how well the singer does on this show. The best contestants are the ones who pick the best songs. Kelly and Ruben always did crowd pleasers which worked for their voices. Justin Guarini was good at that, too. Clay did good versions of the songs he picked, but was always criticized as being too "Broadway."
This season, I feel like Fantasia has it down. She can do upbeat and funky or controlled and mellow. I'm liking her more than LaToya right now.
There's a website..
www.idolfan.org ...which has links to the most recent AI performances. I just looked at the movie night stuff. Oh yea, all this fuss about Fantasia's song was right! She's a STAR! LaToya was great too.
I'd like to hear another Billy Joel night. I'm sorry but I've already told Caroline there is no way I'm watching a Barry Manilow night. I'll go work in the garage or basement while she and her mom watch.
It seems to me last year they had more artist themed nights rather than decades or music style. But I do wish they'd do an Eagles or maybe even a Nirvana. Lets mix it up a little! I'm just tired of the same old, same old.
At least the country night showed talent from Amy, one of the ones who didn't shine on another night. Too bad she was voted out the very next week. If they keep gearing the music towards the ones who keep wowing us we really don't get to see everyone's potential.
Last year, Kimberly Locke was awesome doing Billy Joel's New York State of Mind.
I really wish I'd seen the first 2 seasons!
Scott, I agree with you about the theme nights... also, I think that-- early on-- there should have been a "no theme" night and let the kids pick what they wanted to sing, whatever genre, as they did in the rounds when they were voted into the top 12.
I myself am not looking forward to Barry Manilow night but I'm sure not gonna miss it!
Let's have Rock week!
The Season 3 cd goes on sale April 27; It's going to be the kids singing soul numbers, I think-- I'm gonna get it. I just feel soft-hearted for these kids. I can understand how life-long fans of these kids are made from this show.
Wow, the AI money making maching churns on...
I want to buy Clay Aiken's version of Solitaire on cd.
They were playing snippets from William Hung's cd "INSPIRATION" on the radio yesterday... It wasn't very inspiring but it WAS hilarious. You haven't lived until you've heard his titter-inducing terrible rendition of HOTEL CALIFORNIA.
The DJ also said the album has sold 40,000 copies since its recent release...
Seriously, if he plays his cards right, he could be a new kind of "Weird Al" only he does ACTUAL covers of his songs, not parodies...
actually, they probably DO count as parodies....
I hope someone has told ol Will Hung that he's being mocked. Poor kid. Still, he's getting laughed at all the way to the bank!
Well, I certainly did enjoy tonight's Barry Manilow episode 1000 times more than I thought I would!
Enough chitchat-- here's my rundown from best to NOT the best!
1. JENNIFER; As far as I'm concerned, the best of the Divas Three. Loved her since she sang "Imagine". I think she can sing anything well!
2. JASMINE; Loved her version of 'I Know I'll Never Love This Way Again'. Loved the little personal flair she put on it.
3. DIANA; Not familiar with her song choice, but whatever it was, she NAILED it.
4. FANTASIA; Not a real melodic performance, but no one can deny her infectious energy.
5. LATOYA; Not familiar with this number; she seemed to do it exceptionally well, but... does anyone care?
6. JOHN S; Though the ending fell flat, carrot-top's 'Mandy' was pretty good most of the way through. ps/ I knew he would sing this!
7. GEORGE; Oh dear. 2 weeks in a row of the weakest performance in the show. This week it could start to affect him. Kinda sad to see the ONE performer who steadily improved every week now start to slide downhill.
So who's out this week? It's anything goes from here on in!
Last night's show made me realize I don't know many Barry Manilow songs. I rarely have fun listening to ballads, which dominated last night's show. Let's see a dance/pop song night fer pete's sake!
Latoya, Jennifer, and Fantasia are all pretty good at different things but I still want Jasmine to crack the top three.
I guess it goes without saying that my feelings are really hurt after tonight.
*sigh*
Jennifer did something that none of the other remaining singers did for me-- the songs she sang would stay in my head for days afterward. It happened with 'Imagine', it happened with 'I Believe In You and Me' and it happened with last night's 'Weekend in New England'.
I will miss her very much.
I still think she is a better interpreter of song than either Latoya or Fantasia.
This just proves that all kinds of voting in America are screwed up. How in the hell can that little red-headed *bleep* be in the top 6? If he makes it past next week then I have lost all faith in the voting process.
Originally posted by deanlegion:
There's a yahoo group that has links to the AI3 performance mp3's but they're only up to date to the Elton John night. That was last week, right? I'm sure they'll be getting the movie music ones up there, soon. I'll post the link when I go there again.... It was cool to get to listen to some of the performances I'd missed. I was also very impressed with Clay's "Solitaire."
Please do post it, Deaniac!
YAY! My two fallen Idol-angels Camile & Jennifer are covering GREAT tunes on the upcoming cd....
Camile's doing "Until You Come Back to Me (That's What I'm Gonna Do)" and Jen's covering "Neither One of Us (Wants to be the First to Say Goodbye)"!
http://tv.groups.yahoo.com/group/American_Idol_By_Request/ That's the yahoo group. If you go to the links section, you'll find the files. Also, that idolfan.org website is good for listening to or watching recent performances.
I was actually looking forward to the Barry Manilow show. Even though he is quite awkward to watch, I love that kind of music! I thought all the Idols did a great job except for the guys. I agree with Simon that George made a mess of his song. I also agree with Simon that John is not a very strong singer. ALL the girls gave great performances. I actually thought Jasmine's was the least interesting. The three divas were...divine!
I was absolutely stunned that they (Jennifer, LaToya and Fantasia) were in the bottom 3. Stunned! I couldn't believe Jennifer was eliminated. I have no idea what the voters are doing. Totally don't get it.
Its all about how many times they are voting and for who. After this they really need to look at limiting the number of votes allowed by a phone or instant message. I know of, or knew of, groups of people around here (in Utah) that organized phone chains last year for Carmen Rasmusen. You get a group of 10 or more people with cell phones and land lines and they can vote literally thousands of times in that two hour period given for voting.
To me, seeing Jennifer voted off and the three best performers from the past weeks in the bottom three, it means that their people got over-confident and didn't think their votes counted. That mistake cost Jennifer her chance. At least for now. I'm sure she'll get some kind of offer down the line.
I kinda suspected that that something was wrong when Seacrest didn't say specifically which group George should join.
I agree with you, I think voters thought the Latoya, Jennifer, and Fantasia were already locked in to the final four so they wanted to vote for they wanted in that fourth position.
My other theory is that those three keep splitting the votes amongst their biggest fans while Jasmine now has more of the Hawaaiian fan votes and John has the other JPL's votes added in.
I agree with your theory 100%, Monkey.
Alls I know is, I voted twice for Jen Tuesday night... wish I'd voted more...
XXXs, Dean! I joined the group! Enjoyed hearing Camile do "Son of A Preacher Man' and "Desperado' again!
Also loved hearing Jennifer's "Weekend in New England' again, but why doesn't anyone have her "Imagine'...?
I'm sure there will be Jennifer Hudson tribute sites or groups that will have all her stuff, eventually.
I've heard some other interesting theories about voting for Idol... one is the anti-Diva sentiment. People seem to think that we have enough of that type out there already and are looking for a different kind to win. Also, there are those who like to vote against what the judges say. I have to admit that this must be a minority of voters, though. I'm more inclined to think it's like Scott says...
Check it out
http://www.legionworld.net/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=2;t=000285
Jennifer's gonna be on Letterman Monday night!
Okay, so we had the music of Gloria Estefan tonight... I think it's been proven that Latin music MUST be the most difficult style to sing well! Makes me appreciate Gloria all the more!
In order of performance:
FANTASIA did a high-energy, low-melody performance of GET ON YOUR FEET.
GEORGE bounced around a lot to I LIVE FOR LOVING YOU.
LATOYA did a pretty good version of RHYTHM IS GONNA GET YOU.
JOHN did an okay job to some dull N'Sync/Gloria collaboration.
JASMINE did a sweet version of HERE WE ARE.
DIANA was all a-go-go with TURN THE BEAT AROUND.
My picks:
Top 3: Diana, Jasmine, Latoya
Bottom 3: Fantasia, George, John
But at this point, who knows WHAT will happen.
This is the last chance this show has to kick John off. If he is still standing after tomorrow night I'll find something else to watch on Tuesdays.
All I can say is:
IT'S ABOUT GODDAMNED TIME!
Now, now, Scooter!
Opie has nothing to be ashamed of! He's the 6th best unsigned singing talent in the nation, after all!
I missed last night cause my friend wanted to play Monkey Ball 2. Could someone give me a lil'recap on Wednesday night? Did Lil'Conan cry? Did he sing he swan song well? Who was in the top group/bottom?
top group:
Diana, Fantasia, Latoya.
bottom group:
Jasmine, George, John S.
Jasmine was sent back to the safety couch, and at that point I was 99% sure John would be going home.
He took it like a man (as he has this entire process).
He said he was "somewhat" relieved that it was over, and when asked what he would miss most, he pointed to the 5 remaining contestants and said "them".
His farewell song was... well, typical John S., but he had the other contestants in tears (notably Fantasia, Diana and especially Jasmine).
Poor guy. He's actually had DEATH THREATS lodged against him (see the American Idol message board for details).
I didn't like the boy and the fact he outlasted people with more obvious talent but I do not condone nor support the threats he has received. There was no call for that and the DJ who did the one death threat over the air shouldn't only be fined and fired but prosecuted as well.
Thanks for the update Lash n' Lightning. I think this week's Entertainment Weekly has some Idol kids on the cover...
I'll be sure to buy that, thanks Monkey!
Now... here's the scoop on the AMERICAN IDOL SEASON 3 CD!
It's all I've listened to since I bought it Tuesday, so I stand ready to announce the verdict:
It's not bad.
Actually, all the songs (1 by each of the top 12) sound very nice, and the ensemble number is cheesy fun.
Still, some tracks were nicer than others. Here's the breakdown from nice-weakest to nice-strongest.
It should be no surprise that Leah Labelle (first voted off) has the weakest track. Her 'Betcha By Golly Wow' is a nice little lullabye.
Surprisingly, Amy Adams is next weakest. But "You Make Me Feel Brand New' is such a boring cut to begin with. Listen to these 2 songs as a pleasant insomnia cure.
Follow them up with Jon Steven's 'You Are Everything'. I was surprised li'l Opie sounded as good as he did, but there's virtually no emotion whatsoever in his version of this song.
From here on, things on the CD are more intersting.
Matt Rogers does an excellent version of 'Dock Of The Bay', a nice, strong vocal. He gets minus points for not doing anything original with it, though.
Jasmine Trias does a sweet 'Midnight Train to Georgia' in her pretty tone.
JPL does a very engaging 'My Girl', chock full of JPL-isms, scoring him bonus points.
George does a nice job on 'Me & Mrs. Jones'. Just don't imagine him bouncing as he sings it.
Fantasia and Diana do excellent, soulful versions of their song ('Chain of Fools' & "Heard it Through the Grapevine', respectively). Good stuff, they sound GREAT on cd.
Camile does a great job of 'Until You Come Back to Me' in her nasal, hiccuppy style that I love so much.
Latoya London's 'If You Don't Know Me' shows off her range a bit, but hers isn't the "POWERHOUSE" vocal on the CD.
That spot is reserved for Jennifer Hudson's treatment of 'Neither One of Us'. I'll state for the record here she is my favorite of the bunch, with Camile a close second.
All in all, the CD was a bit too downbeat. Only Fantasia, Diana and Camile are allowed up-tempo numbers.
A bit too much mid- and slow-tempo stuff overall, but otherwise a very nice listen for fans of these guys.
I really don't think I'll be getting that cd, Lash, but I totally appreciate your review.
Thanks, Dean.
I wouldn't have gotten the cd either, but the AI Machine is powerful... like Universo the first 2 times he took control of Earth!
Now I can't wait for Jennifer & Camile's solo cd's!
Loved the theme last night! Big Bands! I thought George had the least interesting performance. I agree with the judges that it was "safe." The young girls (Di and Jaz) did perfectly fine, but again, I agree with the judges that LaToya and Fantasia are just in a whole other category of GREATNESS!!!! Both of those girls were amazing. I predict that George will go tonight, leaving the top four all women- a first!
That would suit me fine.
I'll find out in... 15 minutes or so!!
Final four! Are y'all happy with who's left? I think Laytoya has been fairly consistently awesome while the other three have revolved between mediocrity and greatness. I don't think Fantasia is a great as the judges make her out to be...
My friend said it best....my head is voting for LaToya but my heart is voting for Fantasia. Actually, that's similar to last season, my head was voting for Ruben but my heart was voting for Clay. Actually, my heart was voting for both of them. My heart and my head voted for Kelly the first year. Now ya know!
I'm pleased with the final 4; these 4 along with Jennifer are definitely the best vocalists of the Top 12.
I'm less enamored of Latoya than most I'm aware of. I think she's had just as many "iffy" nights as Fantasia, Diana and Jasmine.
Everyone's assuming Jasmine will go next week, then Diana the week after leaving Fantasia & Latoya to duke it out. I admit that seems likely, but I'd *love* to be surprised somehow...!
Surprises happen a lot with this show!
I'm hoping so!
But as it stands right now, I'd be content with any of those 4 winning.
I consider all of the Top 12 winners, anyway. They've each made Legions of fans.
I will certainly be looking out for Camile Velasco & Jennifer Hudson solo projects...
Last night's show was difficult, what with sweet Jasmine breaking down after being dissed by Simon, Paula, Randy & Donna Summer.
Damn it, they've made it to the final 4, get OFF their asses, I say!
Having the Aloha-State Sweetiepie in tears may have caused an upsurge of support for her, 'net rumours say, which would mean the Judges are inadvertantly the cause of one of their Favored 3 going home tonight...
I predict we'll be seeing Latoya leave tonight, myself.
Well I hope its Jasmine who's going home. Maybe I just have something against the name.
But her performances last night were, to me, extremely bad. Not one note on key and all over the place. When you make it this far you give it your best game, not your worst.
I just hope Diana has enough supporters to pull her through since she gave the best performances last night.
Diana was without a doubt the star of last night's show, and the only one to choose an actual Donna Summer song to sing.
Jasmine has NEVER sung anything but ballads or bluesy numbers. I admired her attempts to step it up for Disco night, but it just ISN'T her musical genre and never will be.
A quick check of the AI boards say that both ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT and CNN state that AI producers have confirmed a MASSIVE upset for tonight's show.
I'm a bit nervous about it. It COULD mean that Diana is going, after her fantastic performance last night and the praise from the judges.
But would Diana really be a massive upset since since been in the bottom three so often? A massive upset to me would be either Latoya or Fantasia going.
Maybe it'll be Fantasia. She, to me, had an off night too. I did not care for her rendition of I Need A Hero. I love the song but her version sounded almost like a Weird Al version. Like she didn't care how it sounded. Maybe she's gotten a little too cocky.
15 minutes!!! I'm SO nervous!!!
Oh yeah, that YAHOO GROUP I joined now has most of the audition stuff, so I finally got to hear Jennifer's lovely IMAGINE again, PLUS got to hear several Scootergirl songs, plus more stuff I'd forgotten, like Katie singing ORANGE COLORED SKY and Elizabeth singing FIRST TIME EVER I SAW YOUR FACE!!!
Thanks, Dean, I *love* that group!!
Oh my, that was a surprising turn of events! Are there more "that was racist!" sentiments again? I'm sure Latoya will get something good going next so I'm not to worried for her...
I was in total shock and denial about LaToya's dismissal! I have never seen so many people crying over an elimination like last nights. Paula just couldn't seem to hold herself together. It's like Clay said, though... the top four are probably all going to end up with record contracts and great careers, but dammit! I wanted Latoya to WIN!!!! This totally proves to me that voting isn't always the right way to settle these things. However, it certainly does make for interesting television entertainment, huh?
The immediate explanation I came up with was that the younger viewers must have rallied. This year, the winner could very well be a teen. I think other teens would like that, and they've got the stamina to repeatedly call in to vote and rally all their buddies to do so, too. But, I dunno...
Lash, glad you're digging the yahoo group. I've found the groups to be the best way to find clips of performances I've missed.
So, now I'm putting all my energy toward Fantasia, but somewhere in the back of my mind, I have a feeling Diana might get there....
LaToya's departure was indeed shocking... Yikes! I actually found her more intriguing b/c she seemed kinda closed off and wary of being in the public eye, and her voice is flawless.
I guess Fantasia is my current fave, and Diana DeGarmo continues to impress, especially on disco night, but that Jasmine has to go! (Jennifer Hudson was my absolute favorite until she was booted).
I must say that LaToya went off with the utmost of class. Bravo!
Here's my proposal for next season. Do NOT tell us what state or city they are from. Too much voting on "My state is better than yours" (why Jasmine is still there, IMO). Maybe don't even show us their faces. Let's just hear their voices, that's supposed to be their true talent. This is more of a pissing contest between fans than it is for talent.
S'why I never got into the whole concept... They should find a way to only allow one vote per phone #. Until they can do that, this whole set-up is a sham. If William Hung -had- made it thru the try-outs, I bet he'd still be in the contest... :rolleyes:
SHE BANGS! SHE BANGS!
I think the time for THEME nights has passed.
Let the final 3 pick songs from whatever genres they want.
At the beginning of the season, I would have been outraged to see LaToya voted off.
But now, after thinking about it, I think it's perfectly appropriate.
The show isn't about who's the best singer, or who has the best voice -- it's who has what it takes to be a pop idol. Lots of pop idols who are famous already probably would not have even made it to the Top 10 in an AI competition. Someone like Britney Spears is staggeringly popular not primarily because she sings well, but for lots of other reasons.
LaToya sang beautifully, and was probably the most talented in the group -- if you're looking solely at who has the best voice. In a number of her performances, LaToya just stood motionless in the center of the stage and sang. Both Diana and Fantasia have attributes that are more Idol-like -- higher energy, an ability to work the crowd, and/or greater originality with song presentation.
As for why Jasmine's still there, I have no idea. Maybe it was a sympathy vote because of those tears. Maybe most of the voters really are bubbly teens and pre-teens who want to give someone their age a shot. (In the future, I think one person-one vote is fair, but it would probably be difficult, if not impossible, to enforce.) But, IMO, it probably wasn't the votes of Hawaii that put Jasmine over. The population of Hawaii is currently about 1,250,000 -- which is less populous than states such as New Mexico, Idaho, New Hampshire, Maine, Nebraska, and West Virginia.
I do think Jasmine will go next -- I think people want to see a Diana/Fantasia final two. They were the first two selected to be in the finals, so it's kind of fitting that they would be the last two standing. Plus, in each of the last two seasons, the final two came from the same group.
I'm looking forward to the next few weeks...
Stu, I totally agree in re: your opinion for why is was okay for Latoya to go last week. And I also predict Jasmine will go this week, but we all might end up very, very surprised.
There's a special on the Final 3 on tonight at 7.
OTHER IDOL NEWS:
Kimberly Locke, whom I understand was last year's 3rd-place on AI is getting airply here with her song "8th World Wonder". It's poppy/dancy, and I quite like it. I thought it was "okay" sang live by her earlier this season, but dance music is hard to translate outside of the studio, I've always thought, because of all the elctronica involved.
I read an article that described Jasmine as looking "as if she were drawn by Disney animators" --
!
I can see her being picked to play the role of Princess Jasmine in a Disney Broadway production of
Aladdin after this is all over...
![[Linked Image]](http://www.americanidolstore.com/assets/product_images/100049_b.JPG)
![[Linked Image]](http://www.americanidolstore.com/assets/product_images/100048_b.JPG)
*squirt, squirt!*
Fantasia just took the show over! She's GOTTA win!
I think it's premature to dismiss Diana. In fact, until tonight's elimination is over, it's premature to dismiss Jasmine. Simon was AWFULLY mean to her last night, and we know what happened last time he did that...!
So, what ever happened to that cool football player guy? Did he last long?
Nope, he was second one eliminated (11th place).
I quite liked him, he was funny and friendly and sounds excellent on the AI Season 3 CD.
His name is Matt Rogers. He was offered a recording contract 5 seconds after being eliminated from AI. I imagine he'll take it once his obligations to 19 ENTERTAINMENT (owners of AI) are done, assuming they don't sign him first.
For those curious plus my own reference:
AI SEASON 3 Eliminations
12th: Leah Labelle
11th: Matt Rogers
10th: Amy Adams
9th: Camile Velasco
8th: John Peter Lewis
7th: Jennifer Hudson
6th: John Stephens
5th: George Huff
4th: Latoya London
final 3: Jasmine Trias, Diana DeGarmo, Fantasia Barrino
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Nope, he was second one eliminated (11th place).
I quite liked him, he was funny and friendly and sounds excellent on the AI Season 3 CD.
His name is Matt Rogers. He was offered a recording contract 5 seconds after being eliminated from AI. I imagine he'll take it once his obligations to 19 ENTERTAINMENT (owners of AI) are done, assuming they don't sign him first.
Matt has his own action figure! It's being sold on eBay:
![[Linked Image]](http://i24.ebayimg.com/03/i/01/a4/69/f6_1_b.JPG)
Can you provide a link to an auction? I looked at both current and completed MATT ROGERS auctions and didn't see any action figures. These must be fakes. If AI was releasing action figures of the Top 12, it would be all over their website.
DIANA VS. FANTASIA!!!!
LAST DIVA STANDING!
Me? I still love Camile & Jennifer. I'd even buy their action figures!
"Look Ma, no claws!"
![[Linked Image]](http://us.news2.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20040520/capt.ny12605200425.tv_american_idol_ny126.jpg)
Hee! I just adore Fantasia! Can't wait till next week!
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Can you provide a link to an auction? I looked at both current and completed MATT ROGERS auctions and didn't see any action figures. These must be fakes. If AI was releasing action figures of the Top 12, it would be all over their website.
I got the image from another MB, which didn't have a link. I think it's a fan-made action figure, not an official American Idol product.
Oh! Nice job actually, although the action figure needs to be a little heftier.
Originally posted by UTS:
I felt bad for that kid who did "She Bangs" -- but at least he was upbeat about the whole thing, and didn't go off whining or griping. I think he probably realized that, although he really wanted to sing, he didn't really have the talent for it.
This is how Stu felt in January.
Stu, do you still feel bad for Mr. Debut-CD-cracked-the-top-40 Hung?
THIS IS THE GRAND FINALE WEEK!!!!
Fantasia VS Diana!!!
Only 1 will be American Idol but they're both winners!!
Heh! LegionWorlders must be part Naltorian! I was just re-reading some of the earliest posts on this thread and there was great enthusiasm for Diana and Fantasia way back then!
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Originally posted by UTS:
[b]I felt bad for that kid who did "She Bangs" -- but at least he was upbeat about the whole thing, and didn't go off whining or griping. I think he probably realized that, although he really wanted to sing, he didn't really have the talent for it.
Stu, do you still feel bad for Mr. Debut-CD-cracked-the-top-40 Hung?
[/b]Not really sure.
Either he really still has no idea that he can't sing -- which would be quite sad -- or he knows, but doesn't care. I mean, why should he? He's sold a bunch of CDs, and even has "The William Hung Girls" dancing for him at events.
Seems kind of a sell-out, until you realize that he was never legit to begin with.
*shrug*
Kiss me -- I voted just now! (After getting a bunch of busy signals...)
I thought the finale was OK. I still love Fantasia's rendition of "Summertime," but I was frankly stunned at how much her last song got praised -- I thought her performance of it was horrible, with off notes all over the place. Sure, I'm not a professionally trained musician, but how many people watching the show were? And her tendency to insert "yeah yeah yeah" over and over again in every single song gets a bit tiresome.
I hope Diana wins. I do think Fantasia is a talented and creative singer, but I just couldn't see myself listening to an entire album full of her songs. I can see her having one or two that I just completely love, and then having a bunch that I can't stand. While I wouldn't necessarily like every single song on an album by Diana either, I think that I'd prefer the package, on the whole, a bit more.
I elected NOT to vote, as I would have wanted to place a vote for both and it would have simply cancelled the votes out.
I like 'em both, they both deserve it, and I'll be happy when either one wins tomorrow.
I ***did*** think the judges continued their "completely overboard" favoritism toward Fantasia tonight. It's so obvious they favor her, and have for the entire show. It almost seems unfair to Diana.
Fantasia was NEVER criticized for things the judges ripped others in the top 12 a new ass for.
Also... oh, I hate to post this as it might make me seem anti-'Tasia, which I am DEFinitely not...
If I heard the judges call 'Tasia's voice "orignal" one more time, I was gonna ralph. Had none of them ever heard of Nell Carter or Macy Gray?
OKAY... that off my chest, let me say one last time:
GOOD LUCK FANTASIA, GOOD LUCK DIANA!!
I had to place multiple votes for Diana. I'm sorry but Fantasia's voice just grinds on me now. It is NOT original nor does it sounds good. Everything she sings, to me, sounds like a Weird Al parody. Like she isn't serious. It is not a voice that will last.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
If I heard the judges call 'Tasia's voice "orignal" one more time, I was gonna ralph. Had none of them ever heard of Nell Carter or Macy Gray?
Wow ...
I'm glad to see somebody else actually think of Nell Carter!! For some reason, I never really thought of her sounding like Nell Carter until Fantasia did the final number last night. Then it just sorta struck me. And I happened to love Nell's voice. :-)
I'm thinking both Diana and Fantasia should both be proud. Heck, I'll pick up the debut album from both of 'em. :-D
American idol shows here a couple of days after it does in the US (the final and the results are both this Friday night. And I'm gonna miss them because I'll be in Bristol. Argh! Chris has promised to video them though).
Personally I'm a huge Fantasia fan. Fabulous voice, great personality and completely owns the stage.
However... Diana has grown on me immensly over the last few shows. Her performace of 'Don't Cry Out Loud' (one of the best sings ever) was just astounding, and she was by far and away the best on the disco night (her rendition of 'No More Tears' or whatever it's called made me majorly goose-bumply). She just needs that little bit extra training and she's going to be amazing. Technically she's a bit wobbly in places but her voice is excellent and again she just owns the stage. That's where Latoya lost out, she was a great singer but didn't seem to have any personality or conection with the audience.
I did like Jasmine as well but no way did she deserve to be in the final three. My final three would have been Jennifer (why, *why* did she go so early? She was just coming into her own.), Diana and Fantasia. Diana for 'Don't Cry Out Loud' and 'No More Tears', Jennifer for just being fabulous and Fantasia for being fabulous but also for 'What Are You Doing For The Rest Of Your Life?' which i thought was just amazing.
Umm... so go on, spoil me (if you've had the results), who won? I wanna know. Actually I'll be happy either way, but I think Fantasia just pips it for me if only for the fact that she has the *best* name ever.
Oh, and one final thing. Ryan Seacrest sucks arse, Paula and Randy are complete bobbins and the UK judges and presenters (Ant & Dec, yay!) are a million times better but the actual quality of the singers on the US version is so much higher than it is here in the UK.
Jeepers, Bev, I think Ryan's a total hottie!
The results won't be on until tonight but I'm sure there'll be several of us posting here about it afterwards!
I missed the performances, so I'll have to hear them online, later. My family was *supposed* to tape the show for me last night. ~grumble,grumble~
I'll miss the results show tonight. My family's *supposed* to tape it for me..
Oh yeah, I wanted to mention that I've had Tamyra's song, "Raindrops will Fall" stuck in my head for DAYS now. I'll probably be buying her cd. The AI machine chugs along....
I just listened to both Diana's and Fantasia's versions of "I Believe." What a number! I do prefer Fantasia's. We'll see what happens....
Right now, I'm listening to audio from previous seasons of AI. Well, my favorites are Kelly, Tamyra, Clay, Ruben, Kimberly Locke, LaToya and Fantasia. This show has provided great entertainment for YEARS now. NO ONE (critics) can deny that.
CONGRATS to the new AMERICAN IDOL:
FANTASIA BARRINO!!!!
And Congrats to Diana DeGarmo also; her future in the biz is assured and she has won millions of fans!
MAN, how I've loved this show....
Can't wait for the next season!
My wonderful family taped the show for me, so I got to see it, and with the benefit of fast forwarding through the commercials! Fantasia was just adorable and lovable during her final performance. The woman is a star. I couldn't help but notice Kelly and Tamyra watching and admiring her. Kelly has been there and Tamyra co wrote "I Believe" so they both are close to the event. It was great to hear Kelly sing. Nice to see Ruben. I love American Idol.
You heard it here first -- next season's Jasmine is going to come from Anchorage, Alaska!
One thing I wondered about last night -- they didn't announce how many votes each finalist got, or how close the vote was.
In season one, I believe they announced the winner, "by a margin of _____ votes to _____ votes." And in season two, Ryan mentioned several times how close the vote was, even specifying (erroneously once or twice, I believe) the difference in votes.
They may have opted not to do it this time around because:
1) The vote wasn't that close at all, and they didn't want to make Diana or her supporters feel bad (or jeopardize her career).
2) The vote was extremely close, and they didn't want Diana's supporters complaining about voting improprieties, not being able to get through, etc. (as happened last time with Clay).
Of course, there could be any number of reasons why it wasn't announced, but these two don't seem unreasonable.
What I saw last night was an utter lack of respect for Diana so I think it was #2. It seemed to me the remotes for they did for Fantasia were far more geared to them knowing she was the winner. And I just got the general feeling that they tried to show her in a better light than Diana all night.
I actually got sick of the garbage (and quite bad singing, IMO) that was going on and turned it off long before the announcement. I watched some old That 70's Show I still had TiVo'd but not watched. Then I went back and fast-forwarded to the inevitable announcement of Fantasia's win. Then I deleted it and played City of Heroes for a few hours. I feel I would have had a better night had I just never turned on the TV to begin with.
I'll be the first to admit that I really did like Fantasia at the beginning (go back and see some of my earlier posts) but she was/is just one of those talents that wears thin very quickly. Mention has been made about how much she is like Macy Grey. Well, like Macy, Fantasia will burn out and fade away quickly. In fact I don't think there has been an Idol discovered yet that will have any kind of staying power. We, as fans, may give careers to the oddest, least talented people (Brittney, Jessica, et al) but we didn't have those people force fed to us 90 seconds at a time on national television.
A true Idol contest would have the contestants singing full versions of the song, not snippets. Test their stamina. I've heard longer commercials that will stay with me longer than most of Idol's performances. Maybe this season just made me more cynical. I don't see any lasting impression and hope the fad fades soon.
On the other hand, I do wish Diana the best of luck and hope that she will give thought to finishing her childhood before taking off to persue a career. Losing may be best for her as she now has a chance to be normal. Or as normal as her contract with the show will allow.
Stu, I've got the show on tape. Ryan DID say one time that the vote was "extrememly close", but no margin was revealed.
Scott, you sound like you're taking this too hard! Diana is having the childhood she WANTS to have, I believe, and best of luck to the little cutie. She IS a star and is this year's Clay Aiken!
I was excited to hear where the auditions will take place next year, including New Orleans, St. Louis and Alaska! My prediction for next year: The 2005 AMERICAN IDOL will come from the NEW ORLEANS audition!
I have to disagree with Scott about this lack of respect shown to Diana. On the contrary, I thought they were very fair about showing her family members and her home stadium fans. She was involved in plenty of the performances. Ryan made several comments like how the final two are so "equally matched" and had tremendous support bases. How they were the top two out of 70,000. He gave her lots of time after the announcement, acknowledging her as the "first runner up." I don't believe Justin Guarini and Clay Aiken got as much acknowlegement when they came in second. Diana was given a chance to say something. She was a trooper, too. Very supportive of Fantasia. The judges were clearly letting both girls know that they'd be stars, ready now to get on with their careers.
I'm sorry that you didn't find the show very entertaining, Scott. I guess I'm just responding to your comments because I found the show VERY entertaining. I loved "Impossible Dream" with Diana, Fantasia, Kelly and Ruben. I did NOT like Tamyra's National Anthem. Shaky. I wasn't really digging the Top 12 production number until Jennifer got the Barry Manilow Diva Fest going. She was good, then LaToya made it better, then Fantasia made it GREAT and brought it home. I liked Kelly's and Ruben's songs. (Kelly's dress wasn't very flattering.) I liked the "Knew You Were Waiting" duet by Diana and Fantasia. I liked the solo performances. Diana does "I Believe" very well, but the emotion Fantasia puts into it (especially after winning) is incomparable.
Yeah, had a great time with AI3!
Me too, Dean!
Though I love Diana, I thought 'Tasia's version of "I Believe" was better. I was feelin' it.
I also quite liked that "Beautiful Disaster" song by Kelly Clarkson. Is that an original song? Nice lyrics and a pretty, sad melody...
I DO NOT KNOW HOW I will make it until JANUARY! ARRRGH!!
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Stu, I've got the show on tape. Ryan DID say one time that the vote was "extrememly close", but no margin was revealed.
Ah, I see. I missed the first half of the program because I was watching the season finale of Enterprise, and after that I was just flipping channels until the last twenty minutes, so I'm sure I missed it when Ryan said that. It's still interesting that they decided not to provide actual figures this time around.
I generally agree with Scott, although maybe a tad less strongly.
I thought there were a few times when Fantasia gave a less-than-stellar performance during the competition, and basically got a free pass from the judges.
What I took issue with was not the fact that the judges liked Fantasia and praised her -- because they're obviously entitled to their opinion, and providing that opinion is their job. What I found objectionable was the fact that it seemed that they (especially Simon) had made up their minds that Fantasia should be the winner on day one, no matter how good anyone else turned out to be over the course of the competition.
Nobody likes being told that their opinion is less valid than another person's opinion. And toward the end, a lot of folks (judging by stuff that's been posted to AI message boards I lurk at) were starting to feel like the show and the media were promoting Fantasia a bit too heavy-handedly. Even normally even-handed media outlets were characterizing Fantasia as being "far more talented than Diana," as though talent were something that could be assessed objectively, like height.
I think both finalists are talented. But I do think that Diana will grow a lot more in the future than Fantasia will. I suppose we'll see...
According to an AI message board, you can hear Diana and Fantasia perform "I Believe" simultaneously at
www.aibyrequest.com -- apparently Diana comes out of one speaker, and Fantasia out of the other.
I haven't tried it myself yet...
Well, since I've missed this whole conversation...
Guys, THANKS for supporting Diana. I knew when she hit that sour note on Tuesday night that she was going to be #2, but honestly, I couldn't be happier. Fantasia was wonderful throughout the entire competiton, and I think deservedly won the contest. I got a bit tired of the judges pimping her like everyone else too, but even so, she deserved to win.
Oh, and this life is exactly what Di wants. Believe me, she's going into this thing with both eyes wide open.
Bottom line: Fantasia made a better winner on Wednesday night, what with all the emotion and love... AND, honestly, Diana made a better runner-up. When she spoke, she was so honest and open with her emotions. I think coming in second allowed the country to see what a great girl she is.
I couldn't be happier with the results, and I can't wait to buy my little cousin's first CD! (I could get it for free,
but I'll buy one to support her!)
KP, you've made a terrific statement. I hope you could see that I have tried to put across that same sentiment. I am always impressed by people who show class in situations like this and especially from someone so young, like Diana.
The only addition I'd like to make to all the comments about how the judges seemed to pick Fantasia from the beginning is this... they really do make a lot of positive statements to other contestants, too. How many times did Simon say he thought LaToya was the best singer there? How did that make Fantasia feel? The judges loved how different John Stevens was, even though his performances weren't very strong. Last year, when it was down to the top three: everybody felt like it was Clay vs Ruben, but it was the judges who said, hey, look out for Kimberly Locke, she's not out of this (though it did turn out that way...). The judges were surprised when LaToya and Fantasia were in the bottom 3 that one week, but they did acknowledge the fact that Diana and Jasmine had strong, worthy performances.
I can't wait to see what happens with everybody. There's enough room for all of them to put out and album and give it a shot!
Lash, yes, Beautiful Disaster is an original song from Kelly's album. It's got full instrumentation on the album, but I agree that the simple piano arrangement was really nice. I love Kelly Clarkson's voice.
Hmm. I very well might have to purchase Kelly's cd now; I already liked "A Moment Like This" and "Miss Independent" has grown on me. "Beautiful Disaster" is enough to put me over the edge and get me buying!
PS/ I heard from a friend that the vote was 51%/49% in 'Tasia's favor; don't know where he got the info though.
I can corroborate the 1% vote spread. It really was pretty close.
I listened to the "side by side" version of I Believe. It's really cool that way. Both girls sing the song very well, and although it's quite similar most of the time, they each give it their own bit of flavor in small ways. I like each version individually, but somehow, listening to them both at once makes the song even better! Gotta love the internet!
I'm still listening to all the AI3 songs at the yahoo group. Yeah, I'm an addict...
From MSN News this morning:
'Idol' Runner-Up to Release Single
Jun 2, 1:27 PM EST
The Associated Press
Diana DeGarmo came in second place on "American Idol," but she already has plans to release a single.
DeGarmo's first song is scheduled to come out June 22 through RCA Records, according to the record company's Web site.
The bubbly 16-year-old from Snellville, Ga., was the runner-up last week on the Fox TV singing competition. "Idol" winner Fantasia Barrino topped her by just 1.3 million votes out of more than 65 million votes cast.
Barrino, a 19-year-old from High Point, N.C., is working on her first single, which is due out June 15.
She and DeGarmo both performed the song, titled "I Believe," during last week's finale.
Coming in second isn't so bad, though — last season's runner-up, Clay Aiken, went on to sell more than 2 million copies of his debut disc and enjoys just as much fame as the winner, Ruben Studdard.
Both singers and the other 10 "Idol" finalists will go on tour starting July 14 in Salt Lake City.
Aha! So all 12 finalists will be on the tour. I was wondering if Leah and Matt would be included.
Diana!
Diana's single come out today! From http://www.cnn.com:
<font size="3">'Idol' finalist DeGarmo releases single</font s>
Gets help from Manchester for 'Don't Cry Out Loud'
Tuesday, June 29, 2004 Posted: 10:51 AM EDT (1451 GMT)
ATLANTA, Georgia (AP) -- Now comes a real thrill for the pride of Snellville.
"American Idol" finalist Diana DeGarmo's first single, "Dreams," will be released Tuesday by RCA Records, and the 17-year-old singer says she's excited to hear it played on the radio.
"I know I'm probably going to have a heart attack," DeGarmo told The Associated Press Sunday in a telephone interview from Los Angeles, where she's been rehearsing for the "American Idol" summer concert tour.
She was the runner-up to Fantasia Barrino -- who now goes by Fantasia -- in this season's "American Idol" singing competition. Though Fantasia won the record contract given to the winner of the popular Fox TV show, DeGarmo said she's close to signing a record deal.
"We're signing soon with RCA," DeGarmo said. "We're doing a full album, and if all things go well, hopefully it will be out before the end of the year. I can't wait to have everything finalized and in ink."
The three-song CD single also contains DeGarmo's version of "I Believe," the single released by Fantasia, and "Don't Cry Out Loud."
Fantasia and DeGarmo each performed "I Believe" on "American Idol."
DeGarmo says she knows some will view her relationship with Fantasia as an ongoing competition, just as some still contrast the careers of "American Idol" contestants Ruben Studdard and Clay Aiken.
"Actually, we haven't talked about it," DeGarmo said. "I don't think it will be an issue because we will be so completely different in voice and style and music."
DeGarmo recorded "Don't Cry Out Loud" with studio help from Melissa Manchester, who had a top 10 hit with the song in 1979.
"It's really a great feeling of accomplishment," DeGarmo said. "We've gone so far and done so many things, putting our work and money and tears into it."
DeGarmo will make a brief return to her home state on the Fourth of July when she sings the national anthem before the Atlanta Braves' home game against the Boston Red Sox.
She sang the national anthem at a Braves game at the old Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium while she was in third grade, and more recently at Turner Field, but she says this will be different.
"It's pretty cool going back and not just being the little girl from Snellville, but now you have a name when you come back," DeGarmo said.
Even better, she'll have a single.
Fantasia's dropped Barrino from her professional name... she's the latest Cher & Madonna!
I knew that was coming. The name "Fantasia" is just too perfect.
So Di got Melissa Manchester to help her record that single, huh? Cool. I think her performance of that song that night before Clive Davis was my favorite moment in American Idol 3.
I bought Fantasia's "single." It has "Believe" on it, as well as "Chain of Fools" and "Summertime." I've been listening to it a LOT lately.
I want to try Summertime at karaoke sometime...
AMERICAN IDOL IS BACK, BABY!!!!!!
Tonight's premiere was WAY fun!
I'm a little concerned that Psycho Lass at the end will return and kill everyone!
Still watching (25 minutes to go). Seems they passed a number through this year that wouldn't have made it in previous years. Or maybe I just don't get the warbling that passes for today's music.
I'm real interested to see if Constatine makes it through all the way.
I took an early liking to Constantine, myself.
My family taped it for me because I was at work last night. The last thing I saw was when the boxer girl walked in, but I didn't get to see her perform. What'd I miss?
Constantine reminds me of a younger me, vocally. I like to rock, but I have to really concentrate to do the quiet parts well. (Of course, I look very different than him.) I hope he does well and I hope his band can wait it out for him.
I didn't get to see the Wednesday night show.
I suppose this thread title *could* be edited, because there was no Carlos Pacheo mentione this year...
Originally posted by Sketch:
My family taped it for me because I was at work last night. The last thing I saw was when the boxer girl walked in, but I didn't get to see her perform. What'd I miss?
Dean, you mean you missed "Crazy" Mary Roach? I'm sure they'll repeat her at sometime this year. But in the meantime visit
Idol on Fox and read
Recaps by the Jaded Journalist to catch up. Here are the first two entries covering Tuesday and Wednesday.
Tuesday
No More Titles This Season (After This One)
After a long, long, long break in which I spent a lot of time examining my life and where it was heading, and realizing that I love the results, we’re all making our triumphant return to American Idol! Well, not people like Matt Metzger. I mean you, me, the judges, the Blond Bomber and a new batch of contestants. So let’s get right to it!
Ryan opens up the season by welcoming us to Washington, D.C. Hey! I was there! Read all about it here. To start the new season off right, Leandra is going to sing the National Anthem. Um, despite the tremendous pain she seems to be in. Maybe her appendix is about to burst. Although that wouldn’t explain the twitchy arms and the hair explosion on her head.
Hey, remember last year when Fantasia won? Just in case you forgot, here’s what it looked like. And here’s what the other winners look like too. Plus Clay. And here’s why winning Idol is important. Just in case you pathologically avoid newspapers or something..
Moving on, we see a girl in a cow costume, a giant tomato and a guy who proves that you can’t wear just an undershirt if you want to be a good singer. Then Simon calls some chicks fat before telling another girl that it’s possible God doesn’t want her to win. Which is maybe my favorite thing he’s ever said. And it seems like Paula watched a lot of Bill O’Reilly in the offseason because she repeatedly tells Randy and Simon to SHUT! UP!
Ryan competently runs down the list of audition cities, then deftly moves on to this season’s guest judges. No, am I not included on the list. Why? You tell me. Whatever, man! Anyway, Mark McGrath, LL, Gene, Brandy and Kenny Loggins all guested. If that means at least one person is going to sing songs from Caddyshack, it’ll all be worth it.
Ryan, copying my moves once again, lays down on top of a sleeping bag. Man, quit bitin’! Then the judges finally roll in, this time toting Mark McGrath. No, not Vanilla Ice. Mark McGrath. Please listen up. I wonder if the guy from Smashmouth is jealous of this guy.
First up in D.C. is youth pastor extraordinaire Sean McNeill. Actually, for all I know, he’s youth pastor ordinaire, but whatever. I wait for Randy to yell “Plymouth Rock landed on us!” during Sean’s song, but it never comes. Maybe next time. Anyway, the kneeling prayers of 500 teenagers help move Sean along to the next round.
But not even prayers could save Rebecca or Davon. Segue! But basically, Jessie is just an entertainer. Even…though…he…talks…pretty…dryly…and slowly. Jessie completely blows the words to the pabulum of a Josh Groban song, which really has to be the low point of one’s life. Even lower than telling people you love a Josh Groban song, which Simon just did. Then again, he once made an album with pro wrestlers. Jessie gets some help on the lyrics, but it’s pretty much wasted since his singing is so awful. But at least he’s on TV! He’s crying on TV, sure, but he’s still on.
Jessie isn’t the only one who forgets his words. Michael Rapaport’s brother has the same problem. Maybe Anwar Robinson can perk things up. He does teach music, after all. Anwar puts on his best Vanilli outfit and turns it out for the judges. And there goes Mark McG stealing my joke. Um…5 months before I said it. Space-time is an amazing thing, yeah?
Maybe Melissa Considine can keep it rolling. Melissa, who is first class all the way, as you can tell from her copious amounts of tin jewelry. Now, just because she’s wearing all that bling, don’t think she has a lot of money. Class don’t cost a thing, sista! Hmm. Well, Simon seems to have taken most of the good material about Melissa’s scratches and her car wash dress, so, uh…I guess I’ll just sit here and wait this out. Melissa gets rejected and has no option but to head back to, New Jersey.
Now, what about Derek Braxton? Is he a good person? He claims he’s the greatest performer in the history of the universe. But the judges somehow reject Derek. Too bad his only chance was Idol. If only he had some connection to get into the music biz. Like Toni Braxton’s agent. Or Toni Braxton’s producer. Or Toni Braxton’s songwriter. Or Toni Braxton’s record label exec. Or Toni Braxton’s limo driver. This poor kid!
Ryan, standing besides a giant obelisk, then talks about how beautiful our country is. Quickly followed up by a guy who wore what he slept in to his audition. You are allowed a change of clothes, you know. And boxers usually go on the inside, chief. Then there’s a girl in plastic pants who’s so bad, her number tries to run away from her. Followed by a group of people who make me hope I never hear the word fruited again. Which I was already borderline on, anyway. This is all wrapped up by somebody who looks like a flounder and sings in a falsetto. Terrific!
To cheer us up, we’re treated to a heartwarming tale about a girl who pawned her wedding ring so she could afford the trip to D.C. And yet if I sold my wedding ring to put everything down on a hard eight, my wife would kill me. Then the girl cries. Good Lord, I hope she makes it. This could be devastating. I’ve never wanted somebody to be good so badly in my entire life. So here we go. Hang on, everybody. Hey, not bad so far. The judges seem to like her. Simon tells Regina to bring her husband, Mark, which seals the deal. Sorta. Simon rejects her, but it’s not enough to overcome the other judges, who pass her through. So, uh, now do we get the ring back? Speaking of which, let it be known that Regina cherishes her karaoke machine more than her wedding ring. I’m just saying.
First up in D.C. is Marlea Stroman, a mom who was inspired by Fantasia last season. And anybody else who’s ever produced a kid, we can only assume. Except for her fiancé, who she just dumped. Whoever’s inspired her, she sure can sing, so the judges pass her through. But Marlea isn’t the only success story. There’s also…that girl! And this guy! And look at that backflip! And the girl in the pink hat yelling at traffic, which is more of a New York thing than a D.C. thing, but whatever! And these people! They’re all so happy. And that makes me happy! Because I’m a good person. Let it be forever known.
My man Aven Moore is well aware of the entertainment equation that Soul-Glo + Purple = Awesome. This is truly, truly wonderful. And he holds a note like that big, bald tenor Bugs Bunny once messed with. Remember? He turned red? Then purple? Then striped? Ah, youthful memories. I think it’s safe to guess that Aven's head doesn’t smoke. That doesn’t make him any better, but there you go anyway.
Then we move on to Constantine, who has his own metal garage band. Paying homage to his dark lord, Constantine goes on American Idol and sings an Aerosmith power ballad in front of Sugar Ray. Hey, that’s how Pantera got their start, so what’s the big deal?
Moving on, here’s a warning for you kids. Anybody who vehemently describes themselves as “wacky”, “crazy” or “fun” is a person to be avoided at all costs. Unless you like lots of shouting and impromptu dancing that prove just how wacky/crazy/fun said person is. So, don’t hang out with Jillian Bennett. On a more placid note, Jillian’s blonde counterpart, Amanda Hubert, dresses up like she’s rushing a southern sorority. “The girls of Delta Nu - Auburn branch are proper, Amanda. We were raised correctly. And we dress accordingly.”
So how does it go? Well, Jillian goes off on a wacky crying jag, and Amanda calls Simon an *******. Not very nice, if you ask me. And I can’t imagine the girls of Delta Nu - Auburn chapter would condone such un-ladylike talk. So, ladies, uh…I guess that’s it for your lives. Nothing left to do now but play out the string.
Back in D.C., things are still s l o g g i n g along.. Maybe Brian Scott Bagley, hip hop dance instructor / ascot wearer, can improve things. I think he can, because Brian is so prepared for his audition that he’s wearing BOTH a belt and suspenders. There is absolutely no chance his pants accidentally fall down, ruining his interview. Sure, it’s a fashion tornado, but at least he’ll be covered up. Which, of course, isn’t enough for Brian to make it into the next round. It does help him panhandle, however. Now let’s move on to Mary Gober, who claims to look like Sharon Stone or Madonna, but actually looks like Ashlee Simpson.. And now let’s very quickly move away from Mary Gober. Glasses on, hair up!
Back from another break and we get Ian Holmes II, who makes us all hope Ian Holmes III will be better next year. And if not, hopefully he’ll also have a macramé hat. Yah, yah, yah. Yah. Yah. Yah, yah, yah, yes. Ian Holmes II can take that massive endorsement back to Ian Holmes I with pride.
After Ryan pays tribute to Lincoln (they have more in common than you think), DCcrest shows us the considerable talents of Michelle Fisher, who catches mosquitos for a living. That sounds…tedious. Maybe Michelle sings better with her protective mosquito netting on, but the judges reject her. If they all suspiciously come down with West Nile next week, we’ll know why.
Then Ryan interrupts Pray for the Soul of Betty band practice, which will easily make the top 10 in VH1’s Top 50 Least Metal Moments ever. Let’s hope nobody puts his head through an amp. Although in his defense, his skinny t-shirt is most definitely metal. It could use a flaming skull and a half naked Viking chick on it, sure, but you take what you can get. Hamboussi, what do you think about Ryan Seacrest stealing Constantine from your band? Hamboussi, perhaps remembering a story his uncle Scott Ian told him about Anthrax breaking up, just wants to support his friend.
Now what about Jason Joel Smith? I’ll tell you one thing about him, he definitely represents. Representin’ HVAC tech, y’all! Keepin’ you warm in the winter and cool in the summer, boy! And you know dis! Jason, who claims to have weeks of experience on his side, gets ready to turn it out. But first, he lets us know that he used to be a drunk until he found religion. Anyway, Jason needed to give a lot more than 5.9% to make it to the next round. If only Jason learned he could sing a month ago instead of two weeks, I think he could’ve made it. But, you know, blasé la la la. HVAC!
Franchon boxes. And she’s a chick. Who boxes. This girl would dismantle me inside of two minutes. But you know what? I’m okay with that. I’m just glad I’m not in her sight line when she gets rejected. Okay. Mary Roach. Are we really ready for this? She seems slightly awkward. But remember, kids, weirdness is originality. And when you say something like that in a calm, even voice, it’s absolutely terrifying.
After bouncing her, the judges encourage Mary to go to beauty school. I guess they think it’s a good idea for Mary to get near people’s heads with razors. Sensible. Now let’s send Mary out with a bout of angry singing! Argghhhh! Aggressive romance! Totally in your face and heart! Man, that chick is a tall order of crazy.
So that’s D.C. The seat of power for the strongest nation in the history of the world. Come back tomorrow when Idol goes to St. Louis and I stay right smack in the middle of Mediocresville. Hey, look! There’s Mayor Badjoke! And there’s City Comptroller Don Outofmaterial! Greetings from Mediocresville!
Wednesday
Last night, we were in the nation’s capital. Tonight, we’re in the nation’s…biggest city on the Mississippi. No, wait, that’s New Orleans. Tonight, we’re in the nation’s…well, we’re in St. Louis! Hey, I was there, too! Read all about it right…here. And the auditioners are as excited as ever, showing off their glittered t-shirt and bare backs to convey enthusiasm.
Let’s start things off with the Maynard triplets. Ryan wonders what Simon will think of them. Judging from their painfully bubbly and rehearsed greeting of “What’s up, dog?”, accompanied by an actual prop dog, I’m guessing that Simon will think they’re borderline moronic and only sorta good looking depending on what kind of condition you’re in. Thanks for playing! Outside of the audition chamber, one of the triplets insists that they’re not fat, then guesses that her sister weighs ten more pounds than she actually does. So, it seems that twins and triplets and other identicals don’t all weigh the same. Good to finally have that wrapped up. One of the sisters says they could all exercise if they felt like it. You know, like most Americans.
Next up is Katrina Rece, who speaks on the phone with mental patients and has tasted human flesh. Personality quirks that she considers ice breakers. Now if Katrina coughs during her song and a fingernail falls out, they should definitely put her through. By the way, “In my anthropology class in college…” is NOT a viable excuse for eating human flesh. Was it from a cadaver that the medical college had left over? Does this have something to do with that hospital from The Re-Animator? And will Katrina’s first single be titled “Eating You Alive?” There are just too many questions here!
After a break, Seacrest throws out the first pitch at a Cardinals game, which is a heck of time for somebody to have to throw a baseball for the first time in their life. Even Rick Ankiel laughed at that one. But wait. Haven’t we seen Seacrest’s Little League pictures on past shows? Maybe he did cute little color commentary for the team from the bench or something. And so now until the Cards win another World Series, St. Louis fans will lament the Curse of the Glambino.
Now the question is, who looks worse? Seacrest or Maurice Moreau? Or Daniel Sample? Another question is, why do people still insist on wearing puka shells? Why didn’t we take care of this in the ‘80s? Can Osborne Smith, son of the Wizard of Oz, improve things? Well, he can’t possibly make things worse. He’s actually pretty good, as Paula’s writhing shoulders indicate. Osborne makes it to the next round and dedicates his golden ticket to everybody in St. Louis who’s been held back. Which I guess means…all the people who got cut? Is he rubbing it in?
Let’s focus on Jeremy, who comes with his own singing teacher, Angel. I think more pressure might be on Angel because if she gets cut, she’ll probably lose all of her clients. But that’s not a problem for today since at least two of the judges like her.. Following Angel is young Jessica Pontius, who emits a high pitch screech which is enjoyed by none.
Back from a break and now Smilin’ Joseph Schoen is a part of our lives. Joe has been a reporter for a small town station. Joe has trained people to sing on cruise ships. Joe has remarkably white teeth that border on radioactive. None of this resume filler save Joe’s performance for Simon, who pans it, likening to that of – you guessed it! – a cruise ship singer. Joseph insists that he’s not a cruise ship singer. “I trained cruise ship singers! And I’m so much more! Like a reporter for a small station in Texas!” After a little bickering, Joseph flat out asks Simon what he’s looking for. “Not you.” “Well. That was…succinct.” And now Joseph will be forced to be used every ounce of his charm to cheer up the sizable contingent he brought with him. Hopefully somebody in that group brought a sign that reads, “It’s okay, Joseph! We still like you!” On another note, what exactly does training cruise ship singers entail, anyway? “Okay, here’s the stage in this room. And the microphone is right there. Oh, and the ship leaves the dock at 8am. Um, I guess that’s about it then.”
Maybe if Joseph was more like Justin Smith, who came straight from his job at the car wash to audition. I assume he’ll be singing a Rose Royce song then. Justin vows that he will “secede”, which I guess means he wants to separate himself from the show. Shouldn’t take long.
After that, let’s all take a deep breath and refocus ourselves, shall we? We need to prepare for Aa’shia (seriously) Jackson, who goes by the street name Li’l Tomboy. Aa’shia bursts into the room in full rap mode. Wait, was one of those lyrics “Leave the slaves in a bacon place?” That is supa dupa fly! But Aa’shia, who didn’t sing “Aisha”, makes it on to the next round. Dreams do come true! Maybe not the dreams of Aa’shia’s mom though, who thinks her daughter will sell more records than anyone of all time.
That can’t happen, because I think Maurice Thomas will hold that title for the next 1,000 years. Because Maurice (who should bill himself as the black Tobias Funke) is awe-some. The pleated pants. The ill-fitting suit. The natty mustache. The super high voice. It’s all workin’, baby! But…Maurice gets rejected, which he can’t believe.
So what about Jeremy? His vocal coach is good enough. His blazer is good enough, so he won’t need that standard Idol makeover if he makes the finals. Unfortunately, his voice is not good enough. And after being cut, his life is not good enough. Angel, trying to put a brave face on things, breaks down in tears. Jeremy seems pretty okay with the whole thing, but Jeremy is inconsolable. Is this how English teachers get when they find former students working in a factory? “I’m a failure as a teacher!”
And then there was Adam and Dirk, two social misfits who bonded over their shared awkwardness. Killing time by discussing the deleted scenes on the Return of the King DVD and by figuring out which girls are less likely to give them basic human affection, Adam and Dirk quickly became friends for the ages. Then they both quickly bombed out of American Idol. But not before showing America one of the most awkward hugs in the history of the world.
So that’s another successful jaunt through an American town! Seacrest! Out! Oh. Hmm. I really thought we were finished with that last year. He did get rid of some things last year, but not that, I guess. Hey, he’s the one on TV, not me, so what do I know?
Scott, thanks for posting those recaps. Pretty funny writing! I totally got the idea.
I guess things will be different this year when they get into the next round, like they're going to separate the men and women. I'm going to watch when I can, and miss it when I have to. Maybe my family will tape the show when I'm not home. No biggie. I've thought about hosting AI nights at my house, but decided not to go to the fuss. It'll be fun to post about it here, though!
I thought Simon was ridiculous with his "you're fat" comments to people who weren't even "fat", but more "healthy", like those Triplets.
Could someone remind him of the 400-plus pound winner of AI Season 2? And I didn't see anyone calling Angel-- the music teacher who made it through-- fat. So it's okay for SOME people to be fat but not for others?
Simon has always been insensitive and pretty darn intolerant of people's body shapes. Especially considering his co-hosts. Paula Abdul is a former bulemic and Randy Jackson was so large he had the gastric bypass surgery.
Which reminds me. Did the heavy set girl he didn't like win the British Idol? I never heard the outcome of that one.
Michelle? Yep, she did. Release done single and then disappeared into oblivion again. Shame, because she had a good voice. No personality though...
I think the thing with Simon and eight is that if someone is just a little overweight he sees it as being a marketing problem, whereas if they're very big then it's not. He actually explained it a lot more in the last Pop Idol here in the UK and unfortunately he has a point. If someone is very big then people, more often than not, praise them for being happy with their size, whereas if someone is just a little overweight all they get is criticism for their weight. It's very unfair (and is much more true of women than men) but on a purely financial, marketing level he has a point and you have to bear in mind that that's the side of things that Simon is approaching them from. He's not always looking for the best singer, he's looking for the best overall package. That includes personality and looks as well as the voice, and it's a harsh business. That doesn't excuse some of the comments he makes (or the way he makes comments) but it does explain *why* he thinks that way. Actually in Pop Idol here he actually fought for the two very large girls to get through to the final ten so it's not his main criteria for picking people.
All that being said, we had an AI4 marathon on Friday night with four episodes (I think) shown back to back. The good singers were... well, underwhelming but that's not what the audition shows are about since you know you'll get to see the really good ones later on anyway. The auditons are about the *bad* ones.
And by golly gosh there were some bad ones. You know, I thought from previous series of Pop Idol and American Idol series that the standard in the US was much better than here (granted there are more people to choose from, but...) only from these audition shows it's also clear that while there might be more good singers in the US there are also a lot more really, really bad ones too. Plus even more complete loons. Highlights were the *real* loon (Mary?) with the voices in her head. OK, so she was really, genuinely scary (and seriously mentally ill if she wasn't taking the piss) but her singing style was just... bizarre. I mean, the bizarrest singing voice ever. But undoubtedly one of the highlights of telly so far this year. And then there was the guy who nearly made Paula spit her drink across the room. He he he. That made us laugh.
Actually, is it just our imagination or are the judges being much more obvious this year? By that I mean are they much more openly laughing at people? Even Paula seemed pretty bad this time around and didn't defend people nearly as much. The whole conversation about the girl geting voice over work as a cartoon rat was obviously the three of them just going off on one and ignoring the poor girl completely (OK, she was bad, but...). Didn't they got told off last series for laughing too much at people? Or was that just one of those stories that you hear that aren't actually true?
I saw that too. The judges being more blatant in their insults. And I guess this week it gets worse. They (at least Paula and Randy) are actually going to get up and walk out according to the previews.
Well, since this is the fourth year they've been doing this, bad auditioners should expect to get such treatment. It's not like it's new.
I'm amazed that some of these people think they should get on this show. Do they really think they're as good as Kelly or Ruben or Fantasia? Or even the second and third place, heck, top 10 contestants? My wife always says she thinks they're just trying to get on tv for being bad.
Bevis, I actually agree with you about the singers' size. Ruben and Frenchie are large people with great talent, so taking them as they are works. Kimberly, from last year, actually started slimming down and got the make-over, and it really helped her. She's very talented, and her cool new look made her more appealing.
I personally look a lot better when I shed a few pounds. I've known larger people who've lost weight, and it seems like they lost some of their character, too. It's weird.
Yeah, I know what you mean Dean. It's almost a case of being either or, either you're slim (or at least not overweight) or you're really big for it to work, at least in terms of being in the public eye. Being that little bit overweight can be a millstone round someone's neck. Not true of 'real' life, but certainly in the music biz.
I also wonder about some of these people's ideas about their own voices. They seem absolutely convinced that they're great despite all the evidence to the contrary. OK there are some who are just OK, not really bad but not really good either, who you can imagine are a little more confident than maybe they should be. And there are some, like the boxer girl, who have the potential to be really good but need a lot of singing lessons to be really good (and therefore don't really have enough time to get to the level they need to be over the length of the series). And then there are those ones that say that everyone they know thinks they're great but who clearly wouldn't know a well pitched note if it bit them on the arse. It also begs the question, why are other people telling them they're good when they're so clearly not? Are all their friends and families delusional as well? Or are they just humouring them? I so don't get it. Over protective parents might have something to answer for, seeing no possible faults in their children, but that can't account for everyone who is awful but thinks they're great. They all seem so incredibly shocked when they crash and burn. Often times even when the judges aren't particularly rude, just very blunt with them. Surely they must be able to hear themselves? I mean, I know I can sing if I'm pitched exactly right (I have to be given the note before I can even start) but even then I know I'm not great. I can hold a tune but I have problems with pitching. I know it's something I'm not great at (I love singing, just not in public) but you can't be good at everything. These people who think they're the next best thing but can't sing a note really need a reality check. And as such if they do get torn down by the judges I don't have much sympathy for them. They put themselves forward, they went on national TV and made fools of themselves well before the judges started on them.
And then on the flip side you have people like Angel or the blonde country singer girl (or the likes of Fantasia and Diana to a degree) who *can* sing but are quite self-effacing about it and don't brag or crow about their ability. They know they're good, they have the confidence to be able to sing in front of the judges but they don't cover up any imperfections with bravado. It's all very odd.
Yeeps! Only 16 fron New Orleans made the cut? So much for my prediction that this year's winner will come from there!
I think my favorite was the Christian guy who sang "In The Still of the Night".
One thing I was glad to see was Randy and Paula walk out when Gene Simmons' vote was allowed to override theirs on that second set of twins. That sucked ASS, and I'm glad they walked! I personally don't feel the guest-judge's vote should carry the weight to keep someone out over Paula and Randy's "Yes". Obviously, they agree!
But apparently those twins (or one of them at least) shows up tomorrow night in Las Vegas or something...?
I missed Tuesday's show! Thanks for a couple highlights, Lash.
Bevis,
Being nervous has a lot to do with some of those auditions. Sometimes a very good singer will just mess up because they're nervous. The antedote to that is training, of course, and practice. Practice in front of people.
My wife and I are both good singers, she was well trained and I go to karaoke a lot, so we both have a decent amount of experience. She gets nervous in front of people, but her training, along with her natural nice sound, can get her through a song. I love to be onstage, in front of people, and I have a decent voice, but I'm not totally confident in my skills. I get nervous about that. Singing as a career isn't either of our dream, though. Neither of us currently take voice lessons or have recitals or rehearsals. We just do it for fun at parties or at the bar. Yes, that would imply that a little *liquid* courage is often involved!
I think that is what happens to a lot of the people who audition for AI. They're normally good, but get nervous and lose it in front of Simon and gang (and the cameras). Some of them have NO excuse, though. They're just jokers.
And only 22 from Las Vegas made the cut to Hollywood! These numbers are really getting low, man!
Early favorite: the big girl who sang the Alicia Keys song. Not even Simon dared call her fat, although Kenny Loggins did state there were image issues. We'll see what the Hollywood stylistscan do with her, though.
And I was SOOOOOO glad one of those twins rejected last night auditioned again! YEAH, BABY! Eat it Gene Simmons, you blood-spittin' wanker! Hoo-HAH! He's going to HOLLYWOOD, in spite of you!
And that Vasquez guy was a TOTAL HOTTIE! Rico Suave, baby! Dee-lish!
Also, I really liked the kid who sang "I Can't Wait to be King". I thought he should have made the cut.
What? No comment from Lash about the guy who attempted to sing The Darkness' "I Believe in a Thing Called Love"?
Actually, I thought he did okay with it.
I've found my new "Scooter Girl-esque Obsession Chick" for 2005-- that blue-haired girl who sang PHANTOM OF THE OPERA ***blew me AWAY**!! I'm obsessed!
He definitely got the pitch right. I would have liked to seen him seriously try singing it though. It appeared, to me, he was trying to be to out there.
And that girl, Briana, was great. I immediately put her in my top finalists.
Not so was the one that Paula fought for. What was she thinking?
Well, he was cute, and remember-- Paula is a dancer first and foremost. The kid could bust the moves. But this isn't a dancing competition. She should have bowed to Randy & Simon's wishes (or Rather, Randy shouldn't have caved to hers), but who knows, maybe the kid will surprise us.
Glad you liked Briana, I loved everything about her from her look to her eerie voice, the eerie voice is what makes me love Sarah Brightman too.
That eerieness makes my hair stand on end.
Caroline and I were talking about how she was like Sarah Brightman when Simon up and mentioned her name too.
Bri's look is what first grabbed me. She's the kind of girl I would hang with when I was in school. Then to hear that voice too was just great. Immediately I knew they'd pick her even though the trio had pushed off a few saying that maybe the pop field wasn't their calling.
All in all I was just glad to finally see some talent getting spotlighted. Hopefully tonight's show will be as good as last night's.
Yeah, I noticed last night's show focused more on the talent and much less on the nonsense. Hope that trend continues tonight. You don't like the eerieness, Bubbles? There's not a song out there that Sarah Brightman couldn't make her own, I bet!
And I'm hoping the same is true of Briana!
I love love LOVE it when someone looks all punk rock like that, and then ends up having a major talent, especially a classical talent. Paula said it when she mentioned that she thought Briana could adapt to pop music, with such an "instrument." It will be interesting to see how she does as the competition commences.
Lots of interesting characters last night. The James Brown guy did seem pretty talented. He really should have held back on the dancing in order to showcase his voice more. I hope he does well, too. The trachiatomy kid seems interesting, too. The Darkness guy probably should have sung something "straight" too. Farmer Boy was good, too.
I really didn't know what to think of the frankly unattractive girl with the beautiful voice. Maybe not pop music, maybe stage musicals or opera for her? Character work?
I watched bits of Wednesday night's show. I liked the crooners. I hope something happens with them. It seems like getting angry at the judges was a running theme. The guy who did the whole rap about the judges was pretty good, but it's weird that he doesn't realize that this isn't the place for him. He has anger management issues...and he's a NANNY! The girl in the hoochie outfit was *weird*. I kept wondering if she was on drugs or drunk or something. I think things are going to get different and interesting in the next round in Hollywood.
The crooners were my favorites of last night, but the big crooner needs to be less a crybaby. I liked the stylish goateed hat-wearing crooner best.
I dunno how Fishnets Lass made the cut. I felt sorry for JP, hottie twin # 2. He just wasn't destined to make it, but he wanted to go with his brother and I wanted him to make the cut. *sigh* Plus he surrrrrre is purdy.
Next week: HOLLYWEIRD, baby! And things are gonna get POPPIN'! Set your VCRs, and everyone root for Briana!
I'm a bit sad and elated at the same time with tonight's results. My favorite didn't make it through but one of my others did.
Yeah, Briana got cut. The cute twin guy got cut. I guess I'm okay with it. Briana picked the wrong song (I'd have like to hear her do that "You don't have to say you love me..." song all eerie-style and stuff, that would have been kewl) The twin guy sounded like crap.
Loved all 3 of the rocker guys, but I'm worried for them tonight, when everyone will be doing dance routines in groups of 3. Can't see them being the "dance routine" types.
The one girl who passed through decided to leave. Good. She *should* want to be with her son. I applaud her for wanting the things in life that really DO matter.
Lots of my favorites made it through-- blonde glasses boy, the goateed crooner, Hottie Sauve Vasquez, the big girl, and more I can't recall right now.
And I was thrilled to see Miss "If I can't express myself through music I will die and I hocked my wedding ring instead of my karaoke machine to come here and I'll state in front of my husband and daughter that making Hollywood is THE best thing that ever happened to me!" got cut. So she now has 2 options-- she can go home and die, or she can go home and raise her daughter. Sorry, I have zero respect for that girl.
Her little my life is over now speech earned her nothing but a big fat raspberry from me. She needs to grow up and now.
I guess Constatine will be getting my votes, assuming he makes it past the next stage. It looks like a number of them are being set up for a fall with the groups.
Hmm. Maybe her daughter would be better off if Mom DID just run off and die because she can't express herself through music.
Did a little research on the AI MB.
Seems Drama Damsel is a former stripper, accused child abuser, alcoholic and drug-addict. Not "Idol" material at all, I'd say....
Check this out:
Drama Damsel
That round of auditions is where it really starts to show off who has substance. I agree with all the cuts that were made, that were shown. I was really hoping Briana would do something cool. With her it was pure nerves. Maybe she wasn't comfortable with the song choices, but that's how it is from now on. Drama Damsel... at first I thought she was sweet, but boy, I guess she's really out of order. I haven't read that article yet, Lash.
I thought the young girl who wanted Simon to go to the prom with her was adorable. I hope she can reign in her energy to perform well.
LOVE that all the rockers made it! The groups of three aren't supposed to be dance routines are they? Speaking of dancing, what happened with the guy that Paula fought so hard for? I don't recall seeing him, if he was cut or not.
They're making it sound like the group auditions are going to be rough. The singers should recognize that the people who make it on the show have group numbers every week. It's American Idol, not American Ego. I'll be home tonight, so I can watch!
First of all, it was weird having to wait til 9 to watch the show. I had to switch between Idol and Project Runway, but I preferred Idol. Then, I recalled that Runway shows again at 11.
Anyway, like always, I find AI to be great entertainment. I love the way they show the behind the scenes dramas, and then the performances.
WHOA! Was anyone else HELLA-impressed with Hottie C. Vasquez's group? they busted it OUT!! (his group also featured the twin who didn't get sent home-- he was spec-freaking-tacular-- and iirc, the music instructor w/ the long braids. Best group of 3 routine I have EVER seen on AI.
Just wanted to point out that there's a GREAT yahoo group for AI. The person there posts EVERYTHING, all the performances...
http://tv.groups.yahoo.com/group/American_Idol_By_Request/
My family taped last night's show for me. Boy, judging those guys must be really hard. It was hard to tell who would make it and who wouldn't. Tonight... more cuts!
Great episode tonight, as our final 24 were revealed. Overall, I was very pleased.
Early favorites include Mario Vasquez (of course; I think he'll win), Anwar Robinson (the music teacher guy with braids), Blondie C. Glasses, both rocker guys (Constantine & Bo), Carrie Underwood (the cute country singing girl), Mikayla (the young cheerleader chick with all the personality) and more. I like a lot of these kids!!!
We were pleased to. Probably the most diverse group yet. And we get three shows next week.
WOW. Great ep tonight as the 12 guys engaged in a war of the vocals! And I'm sure you're dying to hear what I thought of each, so here goes (in order of performance)!
NIKKO, "Part Time Lovers". Feh. Good enough voice but not much charisma there.
SCOTT SAVOL, "You Are My Lady". I actually thought he sounded okay, but there's something about this guy I just can't like. I've felt this way from the start. Maybe it's an attitude thing, I dunno, but I dont like this guy.
ANTHONY (Blondie Glasses), "Hold On To The Night". Yeah, the song is dull but he sang the hell out of it.
BO BICE "Drift Away". HOT. Hot hot hot hot hot. Hot hot HOT-- hot hot HOT; hot hot!! He rolled, he rocked. I loved it.
TRAVIS, "My Cherie Amour". His looks might get him through this round because he is absolutely adorable, but his performance made me want to cry.
CONSTANTINE, "Kiss From A Rose". The song choice surprised and pleased me, and I thought he did well. But I think I'm a "Bo" man!
DAVID BROWN, "Never Can Say Goodbye". Adequate, but not a standout.
JARED YATES, ?. Dunno what that song was, but I didn't like it very much.
ANWAR ROBINSON, "Moon River". Weird song choice, but did he bust it OUT, or what? Powerful voice he's got.
JUDD HARRIS, "Travelin' Band". Who couldn't like this guy's fun rendition of this song? Absolutely enjoyable, this kid is an entertainer.
JOSEPH, "How Am I Supposed To Live Without You". Yeah, yeah, I know, Michael Bolton song. But he sang its tits off, I thought. Good job!
MARIO VASQUEZ, "Do I Do". Do you do... what I do? I dunno, but I'll be happy to find out! *dreamy sigh* This guy has the hotness of Bo combined with the entertainment ability of Judd. He's a contender this year, for certain. He's my early pick to win.
PREDICTION: Nikko, Scott, David & Jared better watch out; 2 are getting voted out this time and I think it will be 2 of them. Travis will get by this round on his looks, but he better step it up next time.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
WOW. Great ep tonight as the 12 guys engaged in a war of the vocals! And I'm sure you're dying to hear what I thought of each, so here goes (in order of performance)!
NIKKO, "Part Time Lovers". Feh. Good enough voice but not much charisma there.
Ditto....
SCOTT SAVOL, "You Are My Lady". I actually thought he sounded okay, but there's something about this guy I just can't like. I've felt this way from the start. Maybe it's an attitude thing, I dunno, but I dont like this guy.
I already forgot who that was. Not a good omen....
ANTHONY (Blondie Glasses), "Hold On To The Night". Yeah, the song is dull but he sang the hell out of it.
I expected better from him. Still, not bad....
BO BICE "Drift Away". HOT. Hot hot hot hot hot. Hot hot HOT-- hot hot HOT; hot hot!! He rolled, he rocked. I loved it.
I must agree.....
TRAVIS, "My Cherie Amour". His looks might get him through this round because he is absolutely adorable, but his performance made me want to cry.
Uh oh, already forgot him, too....
CONSTANTINE, "Kiss From A Rose". The song choice surprised and pleased me, and I thought he did well. But I think I'm a "Bo" man!
Constantine has to be careful. He's good but he can get in over his head....
DAVID BROWN, "Never Can Say Goodbye". Adequate, but not a standout.
Again, I agree....
JARED YATES, ?. Dunno what that song was, but I didn't like it very much.
Yuck. Sounded like a Marc Anthony wanna-be.....
ANWAR ROBINSON, "Moon River". Weird song choice, but did he bust it OUT, or what? Powerful voice he's got.
I wasn't sure what was going to happen when he began, but yes, he DID bust it out....
JUDD HARRIS, "Travelin' Band". Who couldn't like this guy's fun rendition of this song? Absolutely enjoyable, this kid is an entertainer.
So much fun....
JOSEPH, "How Am I Supposed To Live Without You". Yeah, yeah, I know, Michael Bolton song. But he sang its tits off, I thought. Good job!
Sorry, didn't grab me....
MARIO VASQUEZ, "Do I Do". Do you do... what I do? I dunno, but I'll be happy to find out! *dreamy sigh* This guy has the hotness of Bo combined with the entertainment ability of Judd. He's a contender this year, for certain. He's my early pick to win.
My wife think's he's "sooooo cute!" I thought he was very entertaining.
PREDICTION: Nikko, Scott, David & Jared better watch out; 2 are getting voted out this time and I think it will be 2 of them. Travis will get by this round on his looks, but he better step it up next time.
We don't get this ep until Friday here (when we get both the week's episodes in one go) so can't comment really yet, but from last week the ones that stuck out for me were Bo, the bond guy with the glasses (who has the potential to be very cute) and the singing teacher guy (forget his name). He was fabulous.
As for the girls, well a lot of them seem a bit bland. Maybe it's because we weren't shown much of them but half of them CVhris and I just sat there going 'who the hell is she?'. The ones that stood out were the country girl (Carrie? Cassie? We liked her lots). The girl with the Macy Grey hair and the sisteen year old that told Simon off for not listening while she was singing. Maybe not the greatest voice but she most certainly has the personality to carry her through. Incredibly confident and a bit cocky without being arrogant (as far as you can tell so far).
Bevis, the country girl is Carrie and the 16-year old with all the personality is Mikayla. They are definitely my top 2 girls right now.
But unless the girls really bust it out, this is going to be a guy-heavy season, like last year was a diva-heavy one.
Just finished watching the episode where they choose the final 24. God, if I had to hear one more reference to "the journey" I would've done a Mary Roach on their asses! Some random thoughts -
Mikalah is the SW6 version of Barbra Streisand! What a bundle of sass! I really like her but I wonder if she's not just a little too effervescent for the voting public?
Travis is the HOTTEST man on earth and for that reason alone must progress through to later rounds.
Anthony Fedorov is sooo this year's Clay Aiken and just like that little, gay elf this one's going to be around for a while too.
I like both rockers a lot (particularly Constantine) and hope they both last.
Aloha Mischeaux gets the award for the best name I've heard so far this year.
Can't remember what any of them sounded like but my early guesses for final 3 are -
Guys - David, Anthony, Constantine.
Girls - Sarah, Nadia, Mikalah.
Noen of the guys really grabbed me last night. I really thought Constaine was awful. All the others were kinda boaring and predictable. Good voices and all coming from Akien 2.0, BB (Bo bICE) and Dreads. Mario is just too cocky for me, reminds me of Justin and I hated Justin.
I'm with Lash, singing performance aside, that Scott guy is TOTALLY creepy. And Mario is a Justin clone without the Sideshow Bob do (and granted mroe talent than both as well, lol).
LA CHICAS performed tonight! Here's what I thought, in order of performance...
Vonzell, "Heat Wave". A fun opener, I rather liked her.
Amanda, "How Am I Supposed To Live Without You". She was out-sung by the guy who sang it last night. Not impressed.
Janay, ?. Wasn't familiar with the song and didn't care for it. A big disappointment, because I was really hoping to like Janay.
Carrie, "Could've Been". WOW! Country girl busting OUT the old Tiffany song! This is one of the few girls the guys better be worried about.
Sarah, "Get Ready". Feh. Adequate, I suppose.
Melinda, "Power of Love". I dislike the song, but thought she sang it well.
Nadia, ?. Wasn't familiar with the song, but who cares? She rawks. Cute as all get-out, too. Definitely a contender.
Celena, "I Will Love Again". Meh. She was a'aight.
Mikalah Gordon, "Young Hearts Run Free". I'm not convinced she's a great vocalist, but I *am* convinced that I really like her. Enjoyed her version of this song too. Go, girl! I think she'll make the top 6 girls.
Lindsey Cardinale, ?. Sorry, sweetie, but I'd go ahead and pack my bags if I were you. Just not a bit impressive, I'm afraid.
Jessica, "Against All Odds". Wow, I really liked her a lot. Top 6 contender, for sure!
Aloha, "Work It Out". Fantasia Junior. She's a lot of fun, and you can tell the judges expect a lot from her.
PREDICTION: Lindsey go bye-bye, I'm afraid. And she'll possibly take Janay, Sarah or Celena with her. But most likely Amanda.
The girls haven't been on yet her on the west coast. I'll be interested to see if I agree with you Lash. I pretty much agreed with everything you wrote about the guys. I think Anwar is the most accomplished singer and probably my favorite right now. Mario is a great performer (and mega-cute). I hope Travis stays in so we get to look at him more - the best smile. I really liked Joseph's voice - he has all the hooks that draw me in. Nikko was really good as well. Last but not least, Bo. I like this guy a lot. If he keeps on performing the way he did last night, I wouldn't be surprised if he won it all. I hope he gets to sing one of his own compositions, and maybe accompany himself on the guitar or piano. That would clinch it.
As I said, I haven't seen the girls yet, but none of them really excite me. Miklalah is fun, but all I can think of is that she's a young Fran Drescher (the Nanny).
Lash, I totally appreciate your review! I missed the show and my family was unable to tape it for me, so I won't be able to listen to the performances until they're posted at that yahoo group later this week. Does anyone know where I could see video online?
Anyway, I'm using the contestants' page at AI's official website, so I can put faces to the names you list above....
Glad Vonzell did well. I want to like her.
Amanda seems cute, but not very distinct.
Too bad about Janay. I want to like her, too.
Don't know "Could've Been." I like Carrie.
Not sure if I like Sarah. Lash says Feh. Hmmm..
I like Power of Love, not sure about Melinda yet.
LOVE Nadia.
Celena... Amanda... Whateva. I need to see more and hear more I guess...
Yay! Glad Mikahla was fun. With her, it won't be about great vocals, it'll be about entertainment value. (I think, hope!)
oooo....a definite thumbs down for Lindsey!
Jessica gets a great review from Lash! I'll keep that in mind when I actually hear it.
Aloha-glad she did well, too.
Since I missed this show, I don't *really* know how this splitting of the guys and dolls will feel. I do like that we'll be seeing familiar faces more often, though. In that respect, I like the way the elimination rounds are going.
Gotta agree with most of what Lash has written. I think we'll be saying goodbye to Janay and Celena.
Loved Vonzell, but I think her longevity will be due to a combination of a good (but not great) voice, coupled with a goregous face/body, she'll go far.
Was pleasantly surprised by Jessica LOVED Aloha and Carrie. Liked Mikhala, but my concern with her is that she may lose her way by getting sidetracked with her showmanship. She and Aloha are oozing with personality, I see the difference being that Aloha incorporates hers more into her singing, where Mikhala has the potential to lose focus on the singing because of it. If she can hold it back a little more and let her voice speak for itself she'll go far. In the end it is a singing competition.
ELIMINATIONS ROUND ONE! And my nerves are wrecked!
The chicks:
Melinda and Sarah are gone, with the 2 lowest amount of votes. Sarah wasn't a surprise to me, she was one of my picks to go. Melinda WAS more of a surprise to me. I didn't think she was one of the top ones, but i certainly thought she was better than Amanda and Janay.
The dudes:
Jared is gone, which isn't a surprise to me. however, judd's elimination royally PISSED ME OFF. He was one of the top 3 guys of the week. Give me a break. Totally mad about this.
The only one that didn't surprise me was Jared. The others were not the worst performers this week. But they probably had bigger voting blocs. Until we see a change in the voting system we'll always get results like this.
The way they elminated the groups were just plan mean. Mean. It is just not nice. Just do it and stop the tease and suspense...
The way they eliminated Judd was certainly the most underhanded, spiteful thing I may have EVER seen on a reality show. Just awful. Shame on the AI producers.
Agreed. No class in that.
But did you notice that the last girl and Judd to be elminated sang better then they did the first nights. The girl was clearly shaken but she sounded so good. And Judd, you were wronged.
It'll be hard to accept any eliminations from the guys, because they are such a strong group. I don't really think there is a mediocre singer among them (even Jared).
I wish I could say the same about the girls, though. Right now, the only one I care about going on is Nadia. Maybe next week when they choose different songs, I'll change my mind. But this week, I hated Aloha's song, and thought that Carrie just screeched - not a pretty voice to my ears.
I do think Melinda (was that her name) had a good point though. She and Judd did not get the air time that the others did in the previous shows. The air time allowed the others to build up a fan base who could forgive them for a mediocre performance. Judd and Melinda didn't get the opportunity to build up a fan base. That was pretty unfair, especially since the producers had control over who would be featured and knew at the time the show aired, who would be in the final 24.
I also echo everyone's sentiments that the elimination process is unnecessarily degrading and just plain mean spirited. They need to change that.
I think they should just chuck the whole season and give it to Carrie. That girl is a STAR, and she's just cute as all get out.
I also like Nadia and Aloha. I think Mikhala has potential, she just needs to tone down the Fran Drescher/Babs Streisand shtick. Girl's got talent, she doesn't need to make herself a "novelty" act.
As for the dudes, I can't stand Mario and Constantine. There's a difference between self confidence and smugness, boys!
I like Bo and Anwar the best of the boys. Especially Bo...he rocks.
Ditto about Mario and Constantine...too cocky and smug.
I like Bo and Anthony "Akien 2.0".
On the girls I like Nadia and Aloha. Carrie would be my dark horse.
Lets see how talented and diverse all these people are in teh coming weeks.
And I think this season of idol has to be the most brutal yet. The eventual winner will have to go through 13 painful wednesdays to be declared the winner. A full three months of torture, insensitvity and cruelness every wednesday!
Hmm. I'm not seeing the cockiness with Mario or Constantine. But personally, I hope Bo kicks their asses vocally next week.
I tell you what, I'm not sure I can tolerate one more week of looking at that smug, scowly-ass Scott Savol. He looks like he's pissed at the world and ready to hurt someone.
There's lots of support for Aloha, but on reflection, I found her performance a bit over-the-top and a bit too racy for this all-ages show. Next week I want to see less silly and more ass-kick from her.
And from Nadia, I want her to rock on, hopefully with a song I'm familiar with.
and a bit too racy for this all-ages show
I thought about that too. It struck me as funny how they made Amy Adams "clean up" the raciness of "Sin Wagon" last year but let Aloha go full out raunchy with the Beyonce song.
I agree that the way they're doing the eliminations is over the top. It's definitely cruel to let someone think they're safe, but then cut them. It's also cruel to make someone sing after getting such bad news. It's different when they've already made the top 12.
OK, so now I'm officially peeved. Just watched this weeks shows (we get all three in one go here in the UK) and the whole thing with Judd was incredibly cruel. If I were him I'd probably have slapped Ryan for being such an arse or something.
But I also have to say, c'mon America. I mean, Judd maybe didn't have the best singing voice but apart from him, Bo and Mario none of the others actually had any real life to them. I am not pleased with you at all. Humph. OK, lets go through them in order:
Nikko: Blah. Just... blah. Not bad, but not good either.
Scott: Urgh. Yuk. I really don't like him. OK, so I can't really criticise him for singing out of tune or anything because he didn't, but I just don't like his voice and he has a smug look on his face that makes me want to slap him. Urgh.
Anthony: Not a great song, but he performed it well and he's kinda cute in a geeky, weedy kin of way. Either he'll develop and become really good or he'll get boring quite quickly. I hope for the former personally coz there's something about him i like.
Bo: Yay Bo! We like Bo lots. I mean, he did Michael Bolton and sounded great. He rocked but also showed that he was pitch perfect and could get the audience going too. He's not going anywhere for a while (or at least shouldn't do. The public is fickle...)
Travis: Hey, he stole Will Young's mouth and jaw. Spooky. He's kinda sexy, he sings OK, he's also a bit boring. Did no-one advise them on song choice this week? I mean none of the boys picked *really* bad songs but Travis was the perfect example of a good singer picking a bland song and thus giving a middling performance.
Constantine: Oh come on, he sucked. He was out of tune, he doesn't have any charisma on stage and he's just... well, he's a bit creepy and way too full of himself. I'd like to see him go next week if only so he's taken down a peg or two.
David: OK, so he was worse. Just very, very bad. Why on earth he didn't go I don't know. Unless he manages to pull something incredible out of the bag next week he's not gonna make it through to the final six.
Jared: Not surprised he went. He was off key and did a pretty blah song. Mneh.
Anwar: Oh dear. Oh deary, deary me. What happened? Was it nerves do you think? He screwed up the start of the song and overcompensated afterwards. I think he was brave to chose a song like that, and hope it doesn't put him off from doing the same again but he disappointed me simply because he was so good before.
Judd: Boo, boooo America, you suck. Humph. We liked Judd lots. He wasn't the best singer as I said but he didn't have any duff notes and he picked a fun song (novelty? Pfft. Like Paula can talk). Plus he's very, very cute. He can be *my* American Idol. He is only weeny so there should be room in bed for him.
Jo: Again, mneh. Not bad but pretty forgetable.
Mario: Very, very cocky and possibly a bit too full of himself for his own good, but he sang well and he gave a *performance* which was very much missing from a lot of the other boys.
Aaaand the girls:
Vonzell: I was on the bog so I missed her. Chris quite liked her though.
Amanda: Urgh. Didn't like her *at all*. Nope, she should have gone this week, but I don't see her staying for much longer.
Janay: Errrr... I can't even remember her. She must be the really nervous one I guess. Mneh, she's not staying.
Carrie: Yay Carrie! We *love* Carrie. She's faaaaaabulous. Can't fault her in the slightest. Easily the best singing voice of the night (although maybe not the best overall performance if you know what I mean). She's gonna go far, and I'd be happy to see her in the final.
Sarah: Wrong, wrong song. I don't think she deserved to go though. It wasn't a bad performance, there were certainly others much worse than her, but she just killed her chances by picking (as Paula said) a group song.
Melinda: Eek, argh, urgh. Oooooooh. Probably the worst performance out of any of the boys and girls. At least America got *that* one right.
Nadia: Woo-hoo! We also *love* Nadia. She rocks loads. Heh, it'd be quite cool to have Nadia and Bo as the final two rocking out against each other (with maybe Carrie coming third so that there isn't a 'pop' act at all in teh final. Heh heh). Not familiar with the song, but I don't care because she was fabulous. Now she had the best overall performance, and probably came only second to Carrie in terms of her actual vocals.
Celena: Actually both Chris and I quite liked her. Not a great song, but she has a very clear voice amd there's just something about her that's.... interesting. In wouldn't be surprised to see her go before they get to the final six but I think she could be good.
Mikalah: Hmmm. OK, she's a show-woman no doubt about that, but American Idol? I dunno. She might get a bit grating quite quickly. We'll see. She was ok in terms of vocals, but not great. Her personality carries her through.
Lindsay: Again, not half bad but just a bit... well, nothing unique. She's got a certain something to her voice but I don't see that translating onto her on stage performance.
Jessica: A *big* suprose. i hate the song and I wasn't expecting her to be good (didn't remember her from the auditions at all) but she was *very* good. I think if she can build her confidence a bit and try out slightly riskier songs she could easily make it to the final six girls.
Aloha: heh heh heh, we like Aloha. I think she has the potential to be a very good singer and she has to be careful not to rely solely on her personality because that won't take her all the way. Being a very good singer *and* having the personality might.
Overall I think there were a lot of very bad song choices in both camps (and some awful outfits. What was Anwar wearing. Nasty yellow leather/PVC kinda quilted jacket? urgh) and a couple of really bad performances, but there were some really good ones too. Despite what the judges kept saying, I think the strongest performers are in the girls, but so are the weakest which means it's harder to seperate the boys. But my guess for the final twelve would be:
Anthony, Bo, Travis, Constantine, Anwar and Mario for the boys
Vonzell, Carrie, Nadia, Mikalah, Jessica and Aolha for the girls, but I could easily see Vonzell or Jessica being replaced by Celena or Lindsay if they manage to pull off something really good.
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
I agree that the way they're doing the eliminations is over the top. It's definitely cruel to let someone think they're safe, but then cut them. It's also cruel to make someone sing after getting such bad news. It's different when they've already made the top 12.
Maybe. But it does show that Judd has just an increcible amount of class.
I wonder which company will sign him? Because I'm ready to buy his album!!! (And NOT just for the pictures!!!)
Bevis, it is often very interesting to see the results of the voting. Did you watch last season when Jennifer and Latoya were voted off after excellent performances, while Jon and Jasmin had terrible ones? No, the public are not always the best judges...
Beagz, I do agree with you that Judd should have stayed. Joe should have gone.
So, I just went to that yahoo group and listened to the performances again. It's interesting to listen without seeing the video. Overall, I find that the guys have stronger performances than the girls. I like Constantine better when I don't have to look at him. I LOVE Nadia.
The song Janay sang "I want to love you Forever" is a (pre-Nick Lashay) Jessica Simpson song. Jessica sings it *really* well. (I like JS.) Note: VH1 had a "Born to Diva" singing contest, where the girl who won did this song in one of her performances. I forget her name, but she was great. Anyway, Janay was only okay, IMO. She did seem nervous. She's young.
Since it's so early in the contest, it's hard to make predictions, but so far, I find Bo and Nadia to be the best of their respective groups, with Mario and Carrie second.
NO FREAKING WAY is it fair to cut the guys down to 6 so that 6 girls can also be in the top 12. They just need to have a boy Idol and a girl Idol.
THESE GUYS FREAKING ROCK. Okay, here's my rundown, in order of performance....
MARIO VAZQUEZ, " I Love Music". And music loves you, you hot little bastard. Come on over to my place, I make a faboo shrimp quesadilla. Get comfy, get naked if you wanna, but to quote my friend Mr. Cocker... you can leave your hat on. *dreamy sigh*
ANWAR ROBINSON, "What's Going On". Good performance, a contender for sure.
JOE MURENA, "Let's Stay Together". Loved it. One of my favorite all-time songs anyway, and I liked his version. There's something SOOOOO sweet and tender about this guy, yet masculine too. He's SO handsome I can't stand it.
DAVID BROWN, "All Is Fair In Love". Eeh. Weak beginning, second iffy performance in a row. You go bye-bye now.
CONSTANTINE, "Hard To Handle". I hated it, thought he was awful. My Mom really liked it though.
SCOTT SAVOL, ?. Wasn't familiar with this Luthor Vandross song, and didn't care for his performance at all. Once again, my Mom liked it.
TRAVIS TUCKER, "All Night Long". His voice is on the weak side, but he was more fun this week. I'd like to make out with him for 3 solid hours. He can sing to me anytime he wants! Boys in wifebeaters... *fans self*
NIKKO SMITH, "Let's Get It On". I thought his voice was a bit loud and unsexy for this song, but can't say he didn't sing the song well, if that makes any sense.
ANTHONY FEDOROV, "I Want To Know What Love Is". A weak beginning totally eradicated by him BUSTING IT THE FRAG OUT in the middle and end. You gotta love this adorable li'l homo-pixie!
BO BICE, "Whipping Post". FAINTS. I ADORE HIM, from head to toe and every sound that emanates from his mouth. HE WAS AWESOME. Mario WHO? And GAWD, so HOT HOT HOT. We have a winner, folks!!!
My top 3 tonight:
BO, JOE and MARIO. I'm even going to vote this week, since I'm still not over Judd's exit last week. Bo gets 3 votes, Joe gets 2 and Mario 1.
OhmiGAWD, this is so fun this year!!!!
Prediction: If we're going on weakest performances, then both David & Travis should be going bye-bye Weds. But stupid-ass America will probably vote out Bo and Joe. Personally, I wouldn't mind seeing Constantine out. Wake up, America-- BO is the rockingest boi of all!
Bo was great. He has the best voice and the best stage prescene.
Anthony did a great job in the end. He was good.
All the others were ok. Travis and David and Consatine were the worst. Consantine was the worst. Get him out.
Mario did great. It will be interesting to see him actually take on a big ballad, though.
I like Anwar, but he does get a deer-in-the-headlights look, sometimes. At least he hits those power notes.
Joe seems like a nice guy or whatever, but I don't see him as a star.
David's performance wasn't all that bad, but it was over his head.
I couldn't stand Constantine's shrieking and sound effects. It might work at his gigs in bars, but this is a *singing* competition. He needs a coach. My wife says he's a poser.
Scott did a fine job and he looked like a big ol R&B star. I think covering his eyes was a good decision... They covered Clay's ears.
Travis also seems like a nice guy, but he's not a great vocalist and that song was not a good choice.
Nikko is just so unremarkable. I mean, good voice but forgettable.
Anthony did start off shaky. I mean, you have to be able to sing the slow, quiet parts as well as the big notes. It was nerves. Still, like Randy said, he pulled it out!
Bo is already a star. I think it's great that Simon has been so complementary to him because he flat out told Bo that he would have cut him in the Hollywood rounds. Like Paula said, Bo is legit. I like rock, so it's great to see that style go somewhere at AI. In past years, there have been rockers in the early rounds who never make the top 12.
Well, I just went to the yahoogroup and listened to Mario's other songs. He did a really cool version of Bohemian Rhapsody, which was very risky, but he pulled it off. His audition was really good, too. It was "Whatever Happens" a song I don't know, but he did well. Simon gave him a huge compliment. I think we'll be seeing lots of Mario this season....
I'm now officially over ANY contestant who yells at me to "C'MON!" during his/her performance. They REALLY need to stop that.
I know I'm in the minority, but I just don't like Mario. Can't quite put my finger on why.
Anwar started off shaky, but he "worked it out".
My distaste for Contsantine grows and grows..
The rest of them were all, "meh" for me...
Except freakin' BO!!! Never in a million years would I think I'd hear "Whipping Post" on American Idol! I had forgotten about that song, but then memories of my oldest brother blaring that song when I was kid came flooding back. Just excellent, excellent, excellent!
I am really SO sick of Seacrest("OUT"!)and the judges. I wish they'd realize that we watch for the contestants, not to see how clever or funny they **think** they are. What a bunch of egocentric bozos!
True, Joe maybe used the word "c'mon" a time or two too much, but I didn't mind.... although it did make me want to ask, "C'mon... what? What do you require me to c'mon and do? How best may I satisfy your request for me to 'c'mon'?"
And I just remembered-- did I notice a little bit of flirting going on between Joe and Ryan Seacrest?!?? Ryan is SUCH a hussy!
I still really like Anwar and think he would make the best recording star. He seems like the "musician" of the bunch. His style is more smooth jazz than pop. I'm hoping he will shine.
I also really like Joe. I hope he chooses some better songs to showcase his voice.
Lastly, like everyone, I like Bo. Hated the song however. While I want everyone else to stop doing sappy ballads, I'm looking forward to seeing Bo's take on a ballad - I bet it will be unique.
The rest were so-so for me. If America votes the way I would, Scott and David will be going home on Wednesday.
Looking forward to seeing Nadia perform tonight. I'm also hoping that Celena pulls if off. She wasn't good last week, but I heard a nice voice in that lacklustre performance. This is probably her last chance.
Ah, yes... the girls tonight. *yawn*
Aww, I'm being silly. Overall, the guys excite me more (hmm... can't understand why) but there's plenty to look forward to tonight...
Jessica, who I loved on "Against All Odds" last week...
Carrie, who might need to step up with a groovy track before she's dubbed Celene Dion Jr...
Mikayla, who I think is a little cutie-pie and will go far in life if not this competition...
Nadia, the femme Lenny Kravitz...?
Aloha, wondering what wackiness she'll pull off this week...
Okay, I've talked myself into getting excited about the girls tonight!!
Yeah, the girls better step it up tonight! I like the girls better than the boys as a group--but there seems to be more "buzz" behind the boys this year.
It's interesting reading who everyone's favorites are!
The lasses have performed. Some general comments: The judges were really harsh tonight in general. My Mom disliked all the performances tonight and refuses to vote for any of them. So I'm going to TRY not to let any of this influence me in my review... here goes...
ALOHA, ?. Don't ask, but I missed Aloha's performance, and was super-PISSED about it. My Mom says she didn't like it (well, she disliked them all tonight) and she said the judges weren't kind to Aloha either. All I saw was the clip at the end, did she sing "You Don't Know My Name" or did I have Alicia Keys on the brain after Vonzell? Can't give a fair review of Aloha.
LINDSEY CARDINALE, "I Try To Think About Elvis". Meh, it was a fair-to-middling performance. Like Simon, it isn't my favorite song.
JESSICA, "Broken Wing". A fine enough performance, good actually, but all I was thinking was, "Diana DeGarmo sang rings around her last year on this song". I shouldn't be thinking that.
MIKAYLA GORDON, "God Bless The Child". Not crazy about the song but I *was* crazy about Mikayla showing that she IS a vocalist and DOES deserve to be in this competition.
CELENA RAE, "When the Lights Go Down". I thought the judges were too harsh. I liked her on this song. She sounded very good.
NADIA TURNER, "My Love Does It Good". Wow. My favorite song selection of the night, for sure. I thought she was wonderful. She's just... different.
AMANDA AVILA "Turn the Beat Around". Same problem as with Jessica. Diana outsang her on this too last year, and I thought the judges were far too KIND to Amanda. I didn't think she did the song justice.
JANAY CASTINE, ?. I reckon this one of those current Beyonce or Jessica Simpson songs I'm less familiar with it, and I actually enjoyed the song, but not Janay's performance OF the song. Does that make sense? Janay may be going bye-bye.
CARRIE UNDERWOOD, "Another Peice of my Heart". Again I found the judges too harsh. Janis Joplin is one performer whose music lends itself quite well to "countrified" versions, and I thought Carrie pulled it off fine, though not spectacularly.
VONZELL SOLOMON, "If I Ain't Got You". Oh dear. I went to karaoke last night and heard a girl sing rings around Vonzell on this song. I was disappointed, I'm afraid.
So... not a super-great night by any means. I think Nadia was my favorite, followed by Celena second and Carrie & Jessica tied for third. Mikayla I give huge props for showing her vocal versatility. So I think I'm gonna vote Nadia, Celena and Mikayla. Mikki may need the votes and I don't think Jessica or Carrie will tonight.
PREDICTION: Janay, sweetie, pack your bags. Lindsey dear, you didn't unpack yet did you? Better not just in case. Amanda, you might want to get ready to go too just in case. Aloha, Vonzell, relax... I believe your fan base will forgive you for tonight.
Teeds has confirmed for me that Aloha did indeed attempt "You Don't Know My Name". What a hard song; if you don't hit those high "eeeeeeew, eeeeeew"'s just right, you ruin the song. I hate that I missed it.
Oh, yeah, Teeds is big on AI, though it's doubtful you'll ever see her post about it. Like Jackie, she's not big on any of the guys but seems to sort-of like Bo and gay-pixie Anthony. She's big on Nadia and Aloha and Lindsey in the girl's camp.
So, I clocked 3 votes for Nadia, 2 for Celena and 1 for Mikayla.
Word is that Teeds is voting for Aloha, Lindsey and Mikayla, and that she's already tired of me spilling her AI-related business here.
And did YOU vote? Voting is a priveledge, you know! Take advantage of it!
Wow, a couple of weeks ago I never thought I'd say this...but I think my favorite tonight was...
MIKHALA! She gave the performance she NEEDED to give tonight. She showed some real artistry, and proved she's not just an annoying novelty act.
I also thought Nadia was interesting singing "My Love", even though it wound up being sort of Shirley Bassey-ish.
Carrie is still my favorite, but she wasn't great tonight. One thing the judges didn't grasp though: I think Carrie was shooting more for the Fait Hill version of that song--not Janis Joplin's.
Jessica was "aight"...Amanda was decent enough...Aloha wasn't bad. The other girls were just "meh"...
Alas, I didn't vote tonight, since I didn't get to watch the show until the 2 hours were up.
I predict Celena and either Janay or Lindsey will go home this week.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
ALOHA, ?.
I didn't think it was as bad as the judges made it sound. Maybe it didn't seem as good live.
LINDSEY CARDINALE,
Didn't like it.
JESSICA, "Broken Wing".
I thought it was good. I don't like Jessica's look at all, though.
MIKAYLA GORDON, "God Bless The Child".
At first I wasn't sure if it would work, but it really did. I've always liked her, and was glad to see her get a little more serious. It was the right time.
CELENA RAE, "When the Lights Go Down".
She seems like the mom at the party who used to sing, so everyone prods her to go onstage at open mike night.
NADIA TURNER, "My Love Does It Good".
If Ruben can do "Imagine" Nadia can do this song.
AMANDA AVILA "Turn the Beat Around".
She seems like a country fair act. Really cute girl, nice voice. Don't quit your day job.
JANAY CASTINE, ?.
This song's a couple years old, by a one-hit-wonder. I thought it was pretty good. She does get a scared look on her face, though. Just not confident enough. Like Simon says, she may be really good in a few years.
CARRIE UNDERWOOD, "Another Peice of my Heart".
If we didn't already know what Carrie is capapble of, this wouldn't have worked. I agreed with the judges that she looked stiff. And how do you not WAIL out this song? She should have just let go. Didn't she see Joss Stone and Melissa Etheridge at the Grammys? THAT was a great cover of Janis. Countrified or not, this could have been way better.
VONZELL SOLOMON, "If I Ain't Got You".
Vonzell is sooooooo beautiful! That distracts me, because I thought she sounded just fine. It is a tough song, though. I wish I could go to karaoke with Lash!
Oh, I didn't vote either, I just saw a video tape of the show about an hour ago....
The results are in... *sigh*
There will be only ONE winner, I keep telling myself, only ONE. And I've proven myself to be no Naltorian in the predictions department.
Celena is gone, as is Aloha on the girl's side. Celena was my second favorite last night, so I was disappointed. And even though I missed Aloha's performance, I cannot believe it ws worse than Janay's, who has had 2 mediocre performances in a row and SHOULD have gone instead.
David and Joe are gone on the boy's side. David's exit was no surprise after 2 mediocre performances, but I'll sure miss handsome, dreamy Joe.
This week's eliminations were handled with MUCH more dignity. Thanks for that, AI.
That result show was much better. Wow, for once FOX took the high road. Last week's results show was just MEAN, and wasn't what this show is about.
Can't believe Aloha went before Janay. I wasn't surprised about the two guys...I just REALLY hope Constantine doesn't stay too much longer!
Missed the show, so this is the first I'm hearing of the eliminations. I do find Aloha a surprise. I thought she'd last longer. I'm not surprised about Celena. She's really pretty and not a *bad* singer, just not the next American Idol...
The guys eliminated totally makes sense to me. There's SO much charisma in that group.
Thanks for posting the results!
This just in!
Constantine has appeared on TV before!
He was a contestant on the cheesy ELIMIDATE, where he was subjected to verbal abuse from the other players about his "thrift store" clothing and long hair. Yes, he was eliminated.
My radio station (it was on Q107.5, Jackie, with Carson & Kennedy) played the clips from the show this morning. Wish I was able to offer a link but... it was on a radio show.
He was a contestant on the cheesy ELIMIDATE, where he was subjected to verbal abuse from the other players about his "thrift store" clothing and long hair. Yes, he was eliminated.
and here's the cheesy pics to prove it:
http://www.idolshutterbug.com/images/
Eeeek! Shirtless Constantine!
I like him better with the shorter hair, actually.
So, is his elimination on ELIMIDATE prelude to his elimination on American Idol? We can hope! GO BO, GO!!!!
Constantine is a poser. Just a guy trying to hard to be too cool.
Jeepers! Where's Bevis' review of last week's show?
And Scott has been silent for a while now too. As I know he's a for REAL real rocker, I'd really like to hear what he thinks about Cosmoteen and Bo. Does he consider them the real deal, or are they poseurs?
Monday can't get here fast enough for me!!! Having withdrawals...!
One of my best friends freaked out on me last night when I went off about Constantine--apparently she's one of "THOSE" people who love him! Gah!!!
We're still watching but actually missed the guys' performances last week. I still like Contantine and Bo, both for being rockers but will admit that Bo has had much better performances. Hopefully things will be calmer around the house this week and we can really watch the shows.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Jeepers! Where's Bevis' review of last week's show?
Umm.... I missed it. I'm sorry, we went to the opera on Friday night and then I only caught the end of the repeat on Sunday so only saw a couple of the girls (Carrie, Janay and... possibly someone else who didn't make any impression on me) so I don't have much to say really. I thought the judges were a bit harsh on Carie, she wasn't trying to do a Janis Joplin version of the song and rather was doing the Faith Hill take on it. Ok so it wasn't her best performance but she was still damn good.
As for the eliminations... well Celena was no shock. i do think there are others worse than her (Amanda, Janay) but she wasn't ever really likely to make it all the way through to the final. Aloha I do think was a bit of a shock though and she should have got through to the final six girls. With the boys Joe and David were no big surprise. Both can sing, but neither made much of an impression on me. I just hope that Constantine goes next week. He's a poser and tries to rely just on his stage presence, but when he's up against the likes of Bo (yay Bo!) and Anwar he just doesn't stand up at all.
DAMN. How they're ever going to trim 2 of the guys after tonight, I'll never know.
SCOTT SAVOL: I actually liked him tonight, he smiled and had fun, nice job on "I Can't Help myself".
BO BICE: "I'll Be" isn't my favorite song, but he sang it well. I'd really like to hear him sing "This Is How You Remind Me" .
ANTHONY FEDOROV: Wasn't familiar with the tune, but with the exception of him sounding drowned out by the band, he kicked ass.
NIKKO SMITH: The first time I have really liked Nikko; different to hear such a smooooth voice on "Georgia on my Mind".
TRAVIS TUCKER: The weakest, vocal-wise. His "Every Little Step I Take" was way off-pitch. I'd say he was going bye-bye this week, EXCEPT for the fact that he out-performed ALL the guys tonight. Had me giggling like a Catholic Schoolgirl, he did. Great moves, awesome sense of humour, so-so voice. But I'm certain the females-- and "special" boys like me-- love this guy.
MARIO VAZQUEZ: Didn't know the song but it sure was pretty as done by Mario. Hmmmm. Mario needs a haircut, however. Or to put his hat back on!
CONSTANTINE: I thought this was the best he's done yet. Excellent version of "Every Little Thing She Does is Magic".
ANWAR ROBINSON: I much prefer the standard version of "What a Wonderful World", because it brings a tear to my eye. Can't take anything away from Anwar, though, for this "total bust-out" version.
Whichever 2 guys don't make the top 12, I'll be disappointed and sad for them.
Wow, Travis sucked ass tonight. And I couldn't understand the priase lauded upon Bo, I thought he was terrible. Anwar rocked, Mario was strong, as was creepy serial killer Scott.
Travis and Constantine aer history.
After last night, Anwar is definitely my favorite. His record is the one I would be most likely buy. I thought Bo did well and agree with Simon that it's his contest to lose at this point. I also liked Anthony and can see him with a Euro-pop career. Nikko isn't really doing it for me, and Scott is mediocre at best. I don't hate Constantine - but then I don't really like him either. I'll just go with the flow on him. Poor Travis, I like this guy, but he's not consistent. Then there's Mario. Any other year he'd be a real contender, but with Anwar and Bo in there, I don't think he has a chance.
Based on last night's performance, Travis and Scott should go, but I'd gladly save Travis and substitute Nikko or Constantine.
Looking forward to seeing Nadia perform tonight. I can't say I really care about the rest of the girls.
And the lasses came on pretty strong tonight! I'm starting to see some of these girls as serious competition for the boys rather than cannon-fodder for the top 12. In order of performance...
AMANDA AVILA: I said from the first note, "Crap! She picked a Tina song!" But she handled it rather well, I thought. "River Deep, Mountain High" isn't an easy song to sing. I thought the judges were too harsh with her tonight. This is the first time I've really taken notice of Amanda.
JANAY CASTINE: I'm sorry, I think she's a li'l sweetheart, but the axe-job she took to "Dreaming" is unforgivable. She has GOT to exit this week. I haven't seen a "good" performance from her since the eliminations began.
CARRIE UNDERWOOD: *yawn* Her "Because You Loved Me" was pretty dull, I thought. Still a shoe-in for the Top 12, though.
VONZELL SOLOMON: I really liked her on "Respect", and thought she looked awesome in her cowgirl outfit!
NADIA TURNER: Poppin' Hotties! She space-rawked. I've loved her every week so far.
LINDSEY CARDINALE: First time I've liked her. I agree with Randy & Paula about the "smoky" quality of her voice on "I Don't Want To Miss a Thing". Good stuff. And Simon's comment about her being the "Ryan Seacrest" of singing and he and Ryan's li'l tiff will almost certainly lock her into the top 12.
MIKALAH GORDON: Oh, dear. She nailed the end of it, but that first minute and 15 seconds sure was, ummm... difficult. Still, I hope Mikki makes it to the top 12.
JESSICA SIERRA: First of all, thank heavens someone finally worked on her look. She looked HOT, and she sounded GREAT. "The Boys Are Back In Town", indeed!
Got to say, best overall performance of the femmes yet. And really, it's anyone's ballgame at this point.
I voted tonight!
I didn't vote last night, because I liked ALL of the guys, and considered my not voting a single vote for each of them.
but tonight, I had to pick some favorites...
5 votes... Nadia
4 votes... Jessica
3 votes... Lindsey
2 votes... Amanda
1 vote... Mikalah
Oh I thought this was a TERRIBLE week for the women, Nadia rocked, everyone else was either ok, or absolutely awful.
My cat yakked up a hairball when Janay started singing, and the dog started howling along with Mikalah during the first minute of her song.
Tonight those who were bad, weer REALLY bad.
OY!
Nadia was awesome. I got chills man. She rocked!
I thought Nadia was awesome as well. I like her more and more each week. She's definitely a star. I see the top three as Nadia, Bo and Anwar.
I liked Vonzell a lot this week too. Most of the others were bad or at best forgetable. Mikalah was awful. I'm sorry, but I started laughing because she was so off key and her voice reminded me of that really deep singing Bulgarian girl from last years tryouts.
I'm not feeling the Nadia love. I started off liking her okay...but I'm starting to feel the calculation there; it's the same way I feel about Constantine. And ENOUGH with the God stuff. I'm a Christian, and I'm tired of it! God doesn't care who wins American Idol! :-)
Carrie needs to pull it together. She has a great voice, she just needs some help with song selection. Carrie--call me! I called eveyone's line at least once (didn't risk a vote for Janay)and she was the only busy signal. And I didn't even dial until almost the end of voting.
My favorite right now is Jessica! She's playing up the fun, trashy girl vibe AND I LOVE IT. I want her and Bo to rock out a duet.
Vonzell seems sweet. Not crazy about her singing though.
Amanda is okay...but she's a lounge singer at best.
Mikhala...fascinates me for some reason, but that was bad. My friend voted for her a LOT though, so who knows?
Lindsey...She frustrates me, because she has a good voice in there, if she'd just use it! It was better tonight, but she was wearing gauchos, so she only gets one vote.
Will go home this week: Travis, Nikko, Lindsey, Janay.
Should go home: Travis, Janay, Constantine, Amanda
I know what you mean about the "calculating" thing w/re: to Nadia, knowjack. I like her, but she seems to mug for the cameras at just too perfect of times. And like you I also feel drawn to Mikhala, she's definitely got a presence about her.
Caroline loves Mikhala. To me she is too much like Nanny Fine/Fran Drescher and it gets on my nerves. Right now Carrie and Jessica are my favorites among the girls. And after this week I'd have to say Bo and Anwar are my favs among the guys.
Well, now the competition can begin in earnest! We have our top 12.
I was a little shocked Nikko was beaten out by Scott.
Janay's exit wasn't a surprise, but I was biting my nails wondering if Mikalah would make it past Amanda. Looks like Mikki has her fair share of fans!
le BOIS:
Mario Anthony Bo Anwar Constantine Scott
la CHICAS:
Nadia Jessica Vonzell Lindsey Carrie Mikalah
I for one will be GLUED to my TV next Tuesday!!
I wasn't too surprised by that top 12. My BF was nervous Mikhala wouldn't make it through, but I knew she would.
I didn't think Amanda deserved to be top 12, but I sure did feel sorry for her. She was in the same boat as Nikko, not bad, but not memorable.
Janay should've never made it that far. I'll miss Travis' smile, but it was time for him to go.
If I had to make bets, I'd say Lindsey will go next week. Then, who knows? Of course, my wish would be for Constantine to have a swift exit, but I'm afraid he'll be around for a while.
I saw the guys' show, and I thought it was really good. I missed the girls' show and the results show, so I went to the yahoo group to hear their performances. To be honest, I am very swayed by *watching* a pretty girl sing. So, I can be way more objective judging the performances when I only listen.
Anthony- I like this guy. I think he has a good voice and picks the perfect songs for this part of the competition. My wife doesn't really care for him. I did agree with Simon, though, that doing that Latin, Marc Anthony song made him seem whiter than ever!
Anwar- I like him, too. I like the way he knows how to re-arrange a song in order to create the best impact in these short performances. He customizes. What a Wonderful World was a perfect example of this skill. I wish some of the others could take his example.
Bo- This wasn't Bo's best performance, which is weird because he said he was very familiar with and liked that song. I like I'll Be a LOT, and was hoping for Bo to kick into gear. Still, Bo has so much potential... I'm glad he made it.
Constantine- Finally, the right choice for his voice and presence. I'm really rooting for him, but he's kinda fizzled. I hope he can pull it together.
Mario- I LOVE that song. (Lash, it's a BeeGees song that Michael Bublee sp? recently covered. Also, Ruben sang it once during his season on AI. Ruben was way better than Mario.) Mario did a nice job and created a new arrangement for the song. Mario is a showman.
Nikko- Usher just did a cool version of Georgia on My Mind at that Ray Charles tribute show, so it's hard to like Nikko's version. I bet Nikko is a cool kid or whatever, but I'm glad he won't be in anyone else's way anymore.
Scott- Honestly, I think AI voters like underdogs like Scott. They don't want all beautiful skinny people on the show. Scott has a great voice. His talent is transcending his apparent lack of personality and not so great looks.
Travis- Exact opposite of Scott. Great looking guy, good dancer, terrible singer. I can't believe he made it this far.
Remember, I only listened to the girls, I haven't seen video....
Amanda- Sounded fine, but c'mon! Tina Turner. If you're gonna do TT, you better KICK IT!
Carrie- Sounded good and sweet. She has that Leanne Rimes thing going.
Janay- Ugh! That Selena song is SO sweet and dear and has that deep emotional connection because she was killed. Janay doesn't have the sense to not touch something like that. She sounded terrible.
Jessica- This rocked! Sounded great!
Lindsay- This was a lot better than I expected it to be. I bet she looked great, too. (guessing)
Mikala- Oh man. I think she got by on the popularity/personality card. This sounded terrible. I'm sure she's heard talk that she's like a young Streisand (rebooted?) so it was really brave for her to do a Barbra song. AND, out of all the songs in the library, that one was not the best choice. Weird. Still, I do like Mikala. SHE'S someone I wish Anwar would teach how to custom arrange a song.
Nadia- I TOTALLY regret missing her performance. I bet it was cool. Sounded great!
Vonzell- I also regret missing Vonzell's song because she's just so dreamy pretty lovely. It did sound good.
I just realized that the AI website posts pictures of the contestants, so I kinda sorta got to see what went on.
Jessica! Hi cleavage!!
Vonzell! Hi cowgirl!!
Nadia! Hi total physique!
Jessica's "puppies" were a hot topic on the AI MB.
As are the pros/cons of both Constantine (aka "Constanstink", so dubbed by some wag there) and Mikalah, especially her alleged farting onstage Tuesday, the discussion of which nearly incapacitated me with laughter.
Nadia and Bo seem to have the most fans.
Carrie's fanbase is slipping (as she has with me)
Mario, Anthony, and Anwar remain constant favorites.
Lots of Scott haters, many Scott lovers also.
That MB is totally insane. I read the posts to my Mom and we laugh our asses off.
She farted? I thought that low rumble was her vibrato!
Seriously, there was a thread there (now deleted) titled "Mikalah's Fart". 600+ posts! Hysterical! Those folks sure know how to make stuff up.
This one guy said he voted 286 times for her because he loves a gal who isn't afraid to squeeze one out in front of millions of viewers!
Other hot AI MB topics:
Constantine's Justin Guarini half-shirt, worn Weds. (Justin was runner-up to Kelly in Season 1 of AI)
The Race Issue (3 of the 4 booted Weds. weren't white)
Fans of Nikko outaged that he lost a spot to either Scott or Constantine
Lots of Bring back Janay threads, filled with posts of people calling the topic starter an idiot! (I agree with them!!)
Seriously, that board is freakin' crazy.
Oh, SNAP! Now it's all over about Mario being.... GAY! HOOORAY!!! According to someone on the board who says he knows him, his boyfriend's name is Marc, and he's a hairdresser! Marc, Mario needs your help, love! Can't you squeeze him into your appointment book?
Oh, Lash, Lash, Lash, thank you for all the buzz from the AI mbs. Those people are NUTS! I simply don't have the time to take it all in.
Thanks Lash for the AI boards info. I'm too scared to go there. Someone sent me a link to a pro Constantine site that is one of the scariest things I've ever seen. Cree.Pee.
Is there anyway we can get a message to Mikhala telling her to sing "Tell It to My Heart" ? Girl really needs blow it out. If Carrie's determined to stick with country, she needs to do a rocking Mary Chapin Carpenter or Lucinda Williams song...I guess their song choices are going to be limited now though, what with the "theme nights". Wonder what the theme will be this week? I hope they don't do a Motown week this year, those are always painful!
They said when this year started that there wasn't going to be a big focus on theme weeks and guest judges, we were supposed to see that during the auditions and these past few rounds. But I didn't notice any themes so who knows if they changed their minds. I just hope we have some upbeat music.
Jackie knows Lucinda Williams? Excellent! She's AWESOME!
I'd love to see Carrie do Lucinda's "Sweet Old World", though that song might be considered too depressing. None of the rest of her stuff is mainstream enough for AI, I think, except "Passionate Kisses". I'd fall over into a shock-induced state of delight to hear her belt out "Bus To Baton Rouge".
Mikki does Taylor? YES!!! Also, "Love Will Lead You Back" might be good...
I'm JONESin' to hear Bo do "This is How You Remind Me" for some reason...
that's a really good song choice for mikhala, kj.
guys: for me, the most impressive guys are anwar and mario. bo is good, but i am scared for both rockers, in anticipation of a theme night where they have to sing an old standard or something and can't bring the *rawk*! i don't like constantine and hope he's gone soon. scott does not impress me too much. anthony is OK, but he needs to NOT wear any more see-through shirts, and probably hire someone to choose all of the rest of his clothes as well.
gals: nadia is clearly talented, but there is something about her that i intensely dislike. it may relate to a tv interview early on, she was standing with amanda avila and they asked nadia a question, and nadia responded by describing in detail the great things that each judge said to her about how great she was, which seemed very arrogant to me. a shame; she seems the most commercially appealing of the lot at this point. i like jessica a lot, and i like vonzell. neutral on carrie and lindsey. mikhala... hmmm... to be honest, sometimes i like her alot, and sometimes i want her to get off the stage as soon as possible.
Carrie might want to listen to Hem's new cd, Eveningland. "Strays" (song 9 on that cd) might be one of those show-stopping moments like Fantasia's "Summertime" if done just right.
Some suggestions for my favorites:
I'd like Anwar to do Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah".
I'd like Bo to do Robbie Robertson's "Somewhere Down the Crazy River"
and Nadia, I'd like her to do just about anything by Joan Armatrading, like "Love and Affection."
I'd love to hear Mikhala or Lindsey sing Lushlife, but it might be too "old" for them.
Lash, I LOOOVE Lucinda Williams! I went to see her last year when she did that open air concert out at Shelby Farms here--I didn't think I was gonna go 'cause the tickets were so expensive--but the day of the show, someone gave me FREE tickets!
I almost wonder if artists like Lucinda would give "clearance" for their songs on American Idol. I think that's why I am always so blown away when AI contestants sing songs I'd never expect--like Fantasia with "Summertime" or Bo with "Whipping Post" or even Carrie with Tiffany's "Could Have Been"!
I get so tired of the Whitney, Celine, Stevie Wonder, Brian McKnight, Motown, etc. songs that are always performed.
Let's hear some classic Cure, Elvis Costello, Dusty Springfield, Hollies...and the girls with "pipes" should totally do some Laura Branigan songs! Cheesy, I know; but a lot of her songs are MADE for girls (or even boys!) with big voices.
Jackie, I came VERY close to going to that same concert, but had already seen her twice fairly recently-- once when she came with Tom Petty and more recently at the New Daisy, where she TOTALLY rocked! Now I wish I had gone to the outdoor concert. There's just something about her voice, it's monotone and husky and weird yet also so pretty... I'll take her over the divas any day. Has her live double-cd come out yet? It was overdue last I checked.
re: AI... has anyone heard any information on Camille Velasco or Jennifer Hudson from last season? They were my favorites. I'll never forget Jennifer's IN-KUH-REDIBLE rendition of "Weekend In New England" (and THAT'S the week she was voted out or whatever)!
I just reread this entire thread! Very interesting to reread comments on last year and the season so far this year.
I'm such an AI addict it's awful.
Aww... bummer. Mario has quit, only stating that he had "personal reasons" but of course, the message boards and yahoo groups are buzzing with speculation. Poor kid. I hope everything will be okay with him.
He quit? Ooh, I wonder why. That leaves the field rather more open. Any word as to what they're going to do this week then? Will they bring someone back, or just not have anyone leaving this week? Very odd.
OK, slightly late in the day but here we go:
Scott: Meh, he can sing but he just freeps me out. I don't like him much.
Bo: Yay Bo! We like Bo. Not a great song, but I think it was a perfect example of what the judges were talking about with regards to song choice. It shouldn't matter what sogn you do as long as you do it well, and Bo did it very well.
Anthony: I like him, but I'm not too sure why. He's not blown me away at any point but nor has he been really bad. Could be a sleeper hit, but could be aone hit wonder too. I did think Simon was being very harsh though. He did look a little uncomfortable, but I think that was more likely nerves than it not being his musical style.
Anwar: Once again he started very badly but managed to pull it back together at the end. I like him, but if he's going to stay the distance he has to sing well all through at least one song. I liked the puppy comment from Simon.
Mario: Well, OK, so now if he's gone it's a bit beside the point but I never quite got him. Very pretty (and if he's gay then that would have been cool to see a gay man get anywhere on AI) and he can sing and perform but I think he was just too cocky for my taste. Nice to see him fdo something a bit different last week, but I wasn't really gung ho for him.
Constantine: He was out of tune people, all the way through the bloody song. He was *bad*. I mean, really, really bad. Don't like him at all and I hope he goes early.
Travis: Not a good performance, but i liked him and I think it's a shame he went instead of Constantine or Scott. Plus he's a cutie.
Nikko: He's just so blah. He can sing, but he just leaves me cold. Not a shame he went in my book.
Not a bad bunch left from the boys, but I would have preffered for Travis and David to have staye dinstead of Scott or Constantine. Or to have kept cutie Judd. But no....
And the girls:
Carrie: She really has to avoid resting on her laurels. She is by far the best singer out of the girls and deserves to be in the final two with Bo but she really needs to pick her songs well and put her heart and soul into her performances. Paula was right, that fun was missing this week.
Nadia: Nadia is a star. Not too sure about her personality-wise but in terms of sheer performance she's great. I wasn't sure about her song when she started this week but once the rawk kicked in she nailed it. Not the best singer in the bunch, but good enough to be great performer, if you know what I mean.
Mikalah: Hmmm. She was very, very bad this week. Out of tune, her timing seemed off and she just looked a bit subdued while performing. I personally think she needs to go away for a year or two, have lots of training and come back brilliant. At the moment she's just relying on her personality which has started to grate. She can certainly sing, but i don't think she has the control she really needs.
Jessica: Blimey, this girl is a surprise. i think she could be the sleeper hit of the season. She's got a great voice but hasn't shown it's full potential yet and I think she could turn into a damn fine performer. She's been a bit overshadowed by some of the other girls earlier in the series but this week she showed what she can do, and I suspect even that wasn't at her top level. I'm keeping my eye on her because she could be fabulous. Good boobs too.
Lindsey: Uh... who? She's a little dull isn't she? She's good, but not very interesting. Says a lot about the girls that someone as bland as she is got through to the final twelve through lack of real competition. I completely agree with Simon about her being the musical version of Seacrest. Quite nice, does the job, not hard to look at but you do feel there's something missing.
Vonzell: I liked her a lot this week. Didn't quite get what Simon was talking about with regards to her outfit though. She could get a lot better, but I think she'll probably be a fairly early casualty of the voting process.
Amanda: Well, she wasn't really much different from Lindsey but she really shouldn't have tried to do River Deep, Mountain High. The only other version i have ever heard of it that even comes close to Tina is Annie Lennox, and even she couldn't quite manage it. Now if Annie Lennox can't match Tina's version then what hope did Amanda have? To be honest though i think I'd have preffered Amanda to stay instead of Lindsey, but I'd have preffered Aloha over either.
Janay: Ugh. I just don't get why she was in the final twelve girls to start with. No personality on stage (the nerves and shy little girl thing can only be taken so far and then you start to think she's not a performer) and at best a weak voice. She was out of tune for the third time in a row and looked a like a dead fish on stage. Maybe it's just her age, maybe with some training and experience she could be really good but the last three week she just struck me as not being in the right place at all. I'm just surprised she wasn't voted out earlier.
So a final twelve I can live with. Lindsey and Constantine should eb the first two to go, but after that... dunno. There are a few that I could see going early if they're not consistently good and varied (Anthony, Scott, Vonzell and even Carrie and Anwar) and some that might get flumoxed byt the theme weeks (Nadia and Bo) but at this point I wouldn't like to call the final two.
Uh, so Nikko is back. Humph, I'd have been happier if it were Travis.
Well, I am very disappointed.
Mario was many people's pick to win this thing, including mine. He was my early pick to win before I saw Bo in action.
Perhaps Marc demanded he return home for that haircut.
I should think Bo, Carrie and Nadia as well as other top contenders are breathing a sigh of relief. With Mario out, this became a little bit less of a firefight for the top spot.
Too bad about Mario. I don't get the "Bo" thing, I don't think he has a chance in hell in winning this thing, I won't say he's terrible, but I don't think he's very good. <shrug>
I'm now thinking the winner will be a woman, either Carrie or Nadia, with Anwar being the only guy who now has a shot.
I wasn't a Mario fan, but I do feel sorry for the guy, getting this far and having to drop out.
I bet the other contestants are secretly glad though--I think he was one of the ones to beat.
I know she's been a little boring lately, but I still think Carrie has a good chance to win.
I must be the only one here who doesn't like Carrie. She's just so boring for me, like a Kelly Clarkson type whom I also find painful to watch. I'd like someone with an edge or at least vocal virtuosity to win for a change
I find it verrrrry suspicious that Mario's dropping out came hot on the heels of the release of the name and occupation of his alleged boyfriend back home in NYC, on top of other rumours (rumours that appear rather likely) that he was a well-known former "club kid" in the NYC gay scene. *sigh* Dont let your past come back to haunt you, kids, but don't be ashamed of who and what you are, either.
Semi, I was a Carrie-booster originally, but she bores my tits off now. I'm much more a Nadia, Jessica, Lindsey guy nowadays.
I can't help but be just a little less excited now, with Mario gone. Nikko is NO replacement for Mario, I'm afraid.
I'm hoping that someone will REALLY surprise everyone tonight. I love when someone who hasn't been a "frontrunner" emerges as someone to watch. I'd really love it if Lindsey can knock it out of the ballpark tonight.
I'm rooting for Lindz too tonight! C'mon girl, DO it! DO it!
It's great we Legion Worlders have such great music tastes! Maybe we need to make a Legion World Mix Tape???
I'll be home tonight! I can't wait to see the show, though I do have a lot to get done between now and then....
The REST:
Jessica: I was very disappointed. Average-plus at best.
Anwar: Wake me up after you sing-sing; your voice just makes me want to sleep and dream-dream. *yawn*
Mikalah: Eh. It was a'aight.
Anthony: Thought the judges were a tad harsh, it was just a'aight for me.
Linsdey: High hopes smashed into a million peices.
Vonzell: I thought she did very well.
Scott: A'aight, but can he sing anything other than vintage Motown?
Carrie: Ummm... I'm afraid I'VE outsung her on this one in karaoke before. Not feeling it, Carrie.
Nikko: His voice fit the song. It was a'aight.
And now... THE BEST!
CONSTANTINE: Hello! Best he's done yet... thoroughly enjoyed it, awesome song choice!
BO: Bo's back after last week's snooze-song! He kicked some ass.
NADIA: I've probably enjoyed her more consistently than any other of the top 12. I *always* like her song choice, I *always* like her song interpretation. She was the highlight of the night for me, camera mugging or not. She looked awesome, and she sounded even better. I can't picture anyone else in the top 12 singing "You Don't Have To Say You Love Me" and making me *LOVE* it like Nadia did.
Well... except maybe Constantine... I think he's beginning to prove himself on a diverse variety of songs, too...
Lash I could not agree more with every word. Constantine, Bo and Nadia were light years ahead of the rest of the pack.
I'm thinking that Nikko came back to only do one show. If he doesn't go then I think it'll be Lindsey.
Oh, and I have to say, this was the 60's? Where were the Stones, Beatles and Elvis? Shame on the majority playing it safe with the same boring type of songs we get all the time. I would have loved to hear Carrie come back and do the Janice version of Another Piece of My Heart, just to show Simon the difference.
Ok, I only saw a few of them but...
The Bo thing, DON'T SEE IT AT ALL!!! <shrug>
I actually thought Anthony kicked ass, very surprised by the harsh judgements. Lindsay, this girl couldn't sing an upbeat song if her life depended on it, she sounds like ManleyStanley, stick to slow and sultry. Nadia, great performance but again to me it came off too scripted, turning to the camera at just the right moment, hand gestures too well placed, facial jeers ad nauseum.
I'm in love with Vonzell... va va va voom, what a siren tonight! She's absolutely gorgeous!
As for who I think will go first... reviewing the likely suspects...
Nikko: His fan base, ecstatic that he (barely) made it to the top 12, will vote rabidly tonight, keeping him safe this week.
Mikalah: She's beginning to prove that she isn't the vocalist (most of) the others are, but I think her fan base is large enough to keep her safe one more week.
Scott: He's called an underdog for a reason. Does he have enough fans to keep him in?
Vonzell: After tonight, some of Vonzell's fans may have swayed more toward Nadia after Nadia's stellar performance.
Lindsey: A lacklustre performance all the while done to the bane of beginning vocalists-- "the hunchbacked crouch" stance? This in my eyes makes her the # 1 candidate to go home, but she's surprised me before.
One interesting thing to note about Nadia, Bo & Constantine, my 3 favorites of the night... they are the eldest of the bunch, aged 27-29. Mario also fell in that age bracket.
Raising the age limit from 25 was the smartest thing American Idol ever did.
I agree with most of what everyone has said. Nadia was perfection. She's now my favorite to win. I don't think of her as scripted --- I just think she knows how to command the stage and she's definitely no amateur.
Bo and Constantine were both very good, although I've never liked Blood, Sweat & Tears.
Vonzell (and Nadia) both looked fabulous. I thought Vonzell, Anthony and Nikko both did their songs well.
Lastly, I still think Anwar is one of the best, although his performance tonight wasn't up to par.
I'm missing Mario. Any news?
I actually don't really take the judges comments to heart, especially when they will change their minds after seeing the performances on video later. I'm sure being in the audience gives a different perspective. Sometimes I change my mind after hearing a song again, too.
My reviews, from least favorite to favorite...
12. Mikala- My hopes for her are not being realized. Bummer.
11. Lindsey- A super cute girl, but just not very interesting
10. Anwar- It hurts me to rate him so lowly, but he dropped the ball. On season 1, Tamyra did a WAY better version of this song. I'm sure he won't get cut and I hope he will kick it up a few notches from now on.
9. Nikko-Yeah, congratulations to him on getting back on the show, but he's not an interesting performer.
8. Carrie-I've missed some of the girls' performances, so I don't have that regular recollection of how they look as they perform. I've always known that Carrie was cute, but she's actually a lot cuter, live, than I remember. However, her performance was still middle-of-the-road to me.
7. Jessica- She sounded fine and looked good, but I wasn't really moved.
6. Anthony- I think he's good. The judges were way too hard on him.
5. Scott-As always, a very good voice and his stage presence is better. I thought he did well.
4. Constantine- Probably his best performance. I think he must be training his voice. He's controlling it better. His last couple of songs have worked for him.
3. Vonzell-Well, I have a huge crush on her! She looked like Miss America up there. The song she chose is really hard, and she did well. (She's no Dionne Warwick, yet, but she did well.)
2. Nadia- She looked stunning and she did that song really really well. I love her!
1. Bo- He just has it all together. He knows what songs work for him and the audience and the judges. He looked great, too. Is he losing weight? He worked the hair.
I love this show. I was trying to think of all the drop outs there have been within the top 12...in season 1, a guy lied and said he was under the age limit, but he was actually too old. In season 2 we had the Frenchie mess AND the guy who was in a legal mess. In season 3, there was that guy who had a criminal record or something, and was replaced by George Huff. Now we have Mario dropping out. Man, it's tough to get 12 or so people to stay on that show!
What's all this about Mario being on Letterman last night?
Well, everyone sure LOOKED better last night, even if most of them didn't sound so hot. They really stepped up the hair and makeup, LOL! I didn't vote last night, btw.
My Worst to Best:
12. LINDSEY. Aww, I wanted her to do so much better. It was really awful.
11. NIKKO. All over the place bad. The only thing that keeps him out of my last place is the fact I cut him slack for probably not having as much time to prepare.
10. MIKHALA. Well, she looked great at least. That was such the wrong song for her, and she was all over the place with it. Still, she's safe for another week.
9. ANWAR. Hmm. He's so cute and cuddly I want to scream. I like Anwar, I really do, but I half expect animated woodland creatures to be frolicking around his feet when he sings. Boy needs to show some "edge".
8. ANTHONY. So very, very, vanilla. I know Neil Sedaka is popular with American Idol, but they should discourage any contestant from singing "Breaking up Is Hard to Do".
7. SCOTT. Is it just me, or does he give the EXACT SAME performance every week? Not that he's bad or anything, but I want to see something else.
6. JESSICA. I chalk up her sub-par (for her) performance to nerves and bad song choice. It had to be hard to go first on Top 12 night, but that's what this competition is about--rising to the challenge. And that song just seemed to go on and on and on...
5. CARRIE. I didn't think she was nearly as bad as Randy and Paula did. That said, I don't think Simon did her any favors by not giving her criticism. I think she took his praise as free-reign to keep on doing exactly what she's been doing. And THAT isn't going to win AI for her. I did notice for the first time last night how much she looks like Reese Witherspoon.
4. CONSTANTINE. I think I've made it pretty clear that I can't stand this guy, but I have to give him props for last night. By far his best performance.
3. VONZELL. The surprise of the night! I thought she was fantastic. It helped that "Anyone Who Had a Heart" is one of my all time favorite songs. Plus, she looked freaking AMAZING.
2. NADIA. I'm also not a Nadia fan, but she was excellent. I was "feeling" her more last night than ever before.
1. BO. Ah, Bo....sigh. Sure, he came in early on the lyrics once, but so what! He's a star and there's no denying it. I watched it with a group of friends (male and female) and by the end of his song, we were all fanning ourselves! I've liked him all along, but never found him HOT until last night! He was looking DAMN good!!!
I think either Linsdey or Nikko will go home tonight.
Now, I think the top 4 will be Bo, Nadia, Constantine...and I'm still thinking Carrie.
I've literally been humming that damn Vonzell song all morning! (one of my fave Warwick songs too.
)
Same here Bubble! My co-workers have been giving me even more strange looks than usual!
On the AI board, even the most severe Constantine-haters were turned around, at least temporarily, by his great performance last night.
Oddly, Vonzell just doesn't see much "action" on the board, even after last night's swell number.
Bo, Nadia and Carrie remain big fan-favorites.
Lindsey is the hot pick there to go home tonight, closely followed by Mikalah and Nikko.
We'll know shortly!
Well, this wasn't a surprise, I'm afraid.
She looked lovely, really pretty. I wish she had been able to stumble upon a song that would really make her connect with the audience, but she never really did. The closest she came for me was "Don't Wanna Miss a Thing". Maybe she should have saved that for last night's performance.
As for the bottom 3, I also wasn't surprised they were all females. Mikki and Jessica are going to have to step it up BIG TIME next week if they want to compete with Carrie and Nadia.
Originally posted by Bubble Wrap Boy:
I've literally been humming that damn Vonzell song all morning! (one of my fave Warwick songs too. )Heh heh! Me, I was going around all day flailing my arms around all dramtically and stuff singing Nadia's song!!
Hmm. And I've been hearing Three Dog Night all day.
I missed it! It was Lindsey, right? Were there any guest performances? Former Idol contestants? Huh? Huh?
Grrr! I had a lazy day in front of the tv, and saw some of the Ashlee Simpson show and ended up getting "You make me wanna LA LA" stuck in my head all night!!! AAARRRRGGHHH!!!! Heh! However, the funny thing was I gave that disease to a co-worker, and got over it myself.
Yes, it was Lindsey. No guest-stars or former AI contestants. The current top 12 did sing a rather blase song together called, iirc, "When You Say You Love Me". It was just a'aight, kinda dull.
OMG that opening number by the 12 was DREADFUL! Seemed as each of them sang their one or two lines that every single one of them was off key. It just dragged and dragged and dragged.
Any word yet on when the single will be released?
Man, I'm gonna have to vote for Jessica next week. Girl didn't deserve to be in the bottom three.
Agreed re: Jessica, but I figured Nikko's fans would step up their voting majorly.
I hope both Mikki AND Jessie kick total ASS next week.
The songs are all posted at the aiByRequest yahoogroup. I'm in love with Nadia's song. I listened to the group song, and I didn't think it was all that bad. I was trying to figure out who was who since I didn't see it.
Random thought--- this AI cast would be perfect in HAIR the musical. Naturally Bo and Constantine would be the 2 male leads. Nadia sings Aquarius. Carrie sings Good Morning Starshine. ETC etc...
Damn it! Now I'm totally wanting to hear Nadia sing Aquarius!!!
Will there be a Broadway night...?
Originally posted by MLLASH:
What's all this about Mario being on Letterman last night?
My wife told me that he did the Top Ten Reasons He Left AI... and by reason #4, he stopped doing it. Sounds funny to me.
At the yahoogroup messages, there's an article that basically says that Mario got away from his contracts with AI so he could get another deal with another company. Clay Aiken's attorneys are allegedly involved, considering the fact that they got Clay out of his AI commitments.
This is all here-say, btw.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Damn it! Now I'm totally wanting to hear Nadia sing Aquarius!!!
Will there be a Broadway night...?
Heh!
I don't think they've ever done a Broadway night. I'm sure Simon couldn't sit through it. He *never* stopped telling Clay that he seemed more like a Broadway star than a pop star.
From the Letterman Show:
No. 10: “Well, for starters, I was really, really drunk.
No. 9: “I’ve got my eye on the ultimate prize: ‘Belgium Idol”’
No. 8: “Yeah, my career’s over, but I just saved a bundle on my car insurance.”
No. 7: “After seeing Michael Jackson, maybe I don’t want to be a pop star.”
No. 6: “Ryan Seacrest is all hands.”
No. 5: “I started liking when Ryan Seacrest was all hands.”
No. 4. “Screw it — I’m quitting this, too.”
Mario then walked off the stage and never returned.
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
At the yahoogroup messages, there's an article that basically says that Mario got away from his contracts with AI so he could get another deal with another company. Clay Aiken's attorneys are allegedly involved, considering the fact that they got Clay out of his AI commitments.
This is all here-say, btw.
Not quite (
MSNBC ):
NEW YORK - Mario Vazquez is no longer contending for the “American Idol” crown, but he’s following in the footsteps of one of its most famous alumnus — Clay Aiken.
Vazquez has hired Aiken’s lawyer, Jess L. Rosen — the man who sprung Aiken from the contract binding him to the 19 Entertainment, the management company owned by “American Idol” creator Simon Fuller.
19 Entertainment oversees not just the recording deal for “American Idol” stars, but also merchandising, touring, sponsorship and movie deals. The “Idol” contracts are considering among the more restrictive in the industry.
Aiken is now managed by leading management group The Firm.
Neither Vazquez nor Rosen was available for comment Thursday, according to Vazquez’s publicist, Matt Shelton. But Shelton did tell The Associated Press that Vazquez hired Rosen before he quit “American Idol” last Sunday.
Vazquez, a 27-year-old New York City native, stunned “Idol” watchers when he bolted from the show last week for reasons he would only describe as “personal.” A fan favorite, he was considered a top contender for the show’s crown.
Well, I didn't watch the show during Clay Aiken's season, but I think he's a jerk. He owes all of his fame and fortune to American Idol.
As for Mario, they should clamp down, fight him tooth and nail and hold him to his contract to the very last nanosecond.
Or else, crap like this will continue to happen and the plug will be pulled on American Idol.
That's a tough call. I mean, yes, these people get a huge start to their careers because of AI, but if their contracts totally confine them, I could understand wanting to be able to breathe.
It seems like almost every new artist takes whatever contract they can get, and then when they make it, try to re-negotiate or get new deals.
On a lighter note, I am *obsessed* with "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me." Can't stop singing it. In less than a week, I've totally memorized the words. I wonder how long it'll last?
Yeah, I worry about that AI contract limiting a singer's artistic expression. If AI gets to choose the songs and tries to fit a singer into it's mold, I fear some really good singers may be getting short changed. For example, I think Fantasia could be a great torch singer or jazz singer but I wonder if she'll get the opportunity to explore that during her AI contract.
I also heard a snippet of a song from the forth coming album of Jon Peter Lewis from last year. It was really good, sort of folk, but nothing he would ever have been allowed to do on AI - and his voice didn't fit the AI mold, that's for sure.
Mario has to look out for himself. I say all the more power to him.
I do think the 7-year contract for AI winners could be shortened to 5, but these kids go into this with both eyes wide open and all the cards known and on the table.
Honor your commitments. Do what you say you will do. I do not wish either Clay Aiken or Mario continued success.
I find it hard to believe I'm siding with sleazy record execs, but I am.
But on to more fun topics....
Tuesday can't get here soon enough!!
On second thought, what Clay and Mario do doesn't mean anything to me-- as long as it causes no damage to AI.
Now... Does anyone want to read SPOILERS for TOMORROW NIGHT'S show?
Yep, apparently last week and this week's show were taped in L.A. on Monday night to save time, and the show will go live again next week.
So beware, SPOLIERS FOLLOW!
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YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.
Okay, so it definitely was Billboard # 1 hits night, and the AI board was deleting spoiler posts (apparently made by fans who attended the taping) nearly as quick as they were being posted, but I managed to read a few things...!
1. The judge's favorites were Bo, Carrie and Jessica, with Carrie garnering the most compliments, and she and Jessica being told they are the best vocalists in the competition.
2. Constantine sings a Partridge Family/David Cassidy song. Simon despises it.
3. Bo sings "Time In a Bottle".
4. Nadia bombs, and is told it is her weakest performance to date by the judges.
5. Mikalah and Anthony also bomb, and the judges rip them.
6. Nikko's performance is loved by Randy & Paula, hated by Simon (per ususal, it seems, for Nikko).
That's all I managed to get, and keep in mind it is only AI MB hearsay.
Now that I know the past 2 weeks have been taped (and therefore, EDITED) it might explain some of Nadia and Constantine's perfect little glances at the camera and stuff. So next week's show should be a bit more telling.
OMG! A Heart song! That's at least two automatic votes for Carrie from me. One for Anne and one for Nancy.
Some of those spoilers were spot on. Some were just spotty.
Anyway, it's rare that there's a night where I really really enjoy everybody like I did tonight.
If I haaaad to pick the weakest 3-- and I'd really rather not, it would have to be at gunpoint-- it would be Mikalah, Anwar and Anthony.
I thought Mikki did "Love Will Lead You Back" serious justice, and don't understand why the judges ripped her like that, though I agree there were a couple of iffy seconds. I'd still give it 8.5 of 10. I guess that's not good enough when you have eight other singers getting 9-10 of 10, though...
Anwar did well, but he's no Chaka Khan. Seemed really out of his element.
Anthony also did well, but he had trouble with some of those lower notes.
REALLY don't get the ripping Nadia received for her great cover of "Time After Time"! I loved it. Not so keen on her mohawk, though! I like Nadia's regular hair!!!
Seeing who is in bottom 3 tomorrow should be pretty interesting. I'm not even going to try to guess; they should all get a "buy" this week. A great night all-around.
Originally posted by Lightning Lad:
OMG! A Heart song! That's at least two automatic votes for Carrie from me. One for Anne and one for Nancy. And she totally rocked it, too!
Didya notice that ALL of 'em were doing those little perfect camera muggings tonight? It was very amusing!
I'm ready for next week's LIVE performances...!
Okay, posting these as I watch:
Anthony - Didn't care for it. I felt the song really lost a lot being sung solo and he just didn't seem to be up to it.
Carrie - So the girl can do more than country. And she picked a Heart song and nailed it. This put her back to the top of the female performers for me.
Scott - Probably his best performance to my ears but he sound a bit warbly, not quite on key.
Bo - Still the #1 guy to beat but he, like Scott, seemed off key to me.
Nikko - Okay, is it my ears? Another guy whose vocals seemed all over the place. He's not showing the same strength he had when he did Ray Charles.
Vonzell - Great choice of song and great performance. She keeps getting better.
Contantine - Can't wait to Caroline hears this one. Cassiday was one of her favorites growing up. Not quite as good of a performance as last week's but still stronger.
Nadia - Girlfriend is sliding downhill. Did anyone else notice she flubbed the lyrics at the beginning? She is still a great performer but I didn't like this one. To me, with the last two performances, Vonzell has surpassed Nadia. I would have put then neck-and-neck after last week even though I gave Nadia the edge then.
Mikalah - Eh. She is just not the strongest performer, especially vocally. Even if I look past the Nanny Fine/Babs voice she is lacking in something. Maybe she should have been passed over, told to get some more practice.
Anwar - Felt rushed to me. Like he couldn't keep up with the music and just mumbled his way through the lyrics until he reached the chorus.
Jessica - I don't like changes in lyrics. Whether its because they forgot them or just changed them on a whim. Started good but she lost me when she lost the lyrics. Otherwise she gave one of the better performances.
Come on Lash, nadia's hair rocked tonight!
Vu, I guess I could deal with it for ONE night, anyway... it was certainly a surprise. But I think her usual "dandelion" hair is just sOOOOOOO cute...
You can really tell the AI stylists are going to town on these kids!
Hmm. Folks on my AI Yahoogroup are ripping Mikalah's performance. Maybe I "listen with prejudice" because I like the girl? I dunno.
They're also dogging out Jessica for apparently forgetting a lyric and repeating the same one twice. I also noticed that. I wonder if it will affect the voting?
Originally posted by MLLASH:
They're also dogging out Jessica for apparently forgetting a lyric and repeating the same one twice. I also noticed that. I wonder if it will affect the voting?
So it wasn't just me. Nadia did the same thing.
Bo with the straight hair
Carrie with the heart hair
even Anthony had his hair off his forehead!
It was a surprise that Nadia went the mohawk look but she was totally rocking it man!
it will only effect the voting if it was a noticeable flub, i didn't notice anything
Ah! I *thought* Nadia might have done the same thing, but wasn't sure if maybe it was done that way because of the strange arrangement of the shortened (and increased-paced chorus of) song.
Hmm. Maybe I better vote for Nadia tonight.
Correct lyrics:
"Lying in my bed I hear the clock tick,
and think of you
caught up in circles confusion--
is nothing new"
Nadia's lyrics:
"Lying in my bed I hear the clock tick,
and think of you
Always with spiracles,
confusion is nothing new."
To me that was a totally noticable flub. But then this is my favorite Cyndi Lauper song and I know it by heart.
And yes, those were her exact words. I have the show on TiVo and was able to rewind and hear it clearly after the rest of the show was finished. She said spiracles, rhymes with miracles. Miracle does not appear anywhere in the song.
Yeep!!! I'd say her flub outflubs Jessica's. I hope she's okay after that-- I put in a vote for her.
I think Jessica's flub had more to do with the way the band was doing the song. It wasn't quite the arrangement that I'm used to on Total Eclipse of the Heart.
I put in nine votes for Carrie (one for each Caroline, mom, myself, our four cats and for Anne and Nancy), five votes for Bo, three votes each for Vonzell and Jessica and one vote for Constantine (still like the boy).
SCOTT!! Check your TIVO! BIIIIG hoo-rah on the AI board about an apparent BIG TIME mistake tonight!
Apparently when they were recapping the numbers to call, they MESSED UP Mikalah, Anwar and Jessica-- who were 09, 10 & 11-- and gave them the numbers 01, 02 and 03!
So if someone was writing down the numbers right then or not really paying attenion, their votes will go to Anthony, Carrie or Scott instead of to whom they intended.
Fans on the AI board are already screaming for a "PASS" for everyone this week and send 2 home next week!
They sure enough did! The gave the right number out with the performances but at the end they gave 1-866-IDOLS-09 for Mikalah but the number underneath (for those who can't dial by letter) they gave 1-866-43657-01. Did the same on Anwar with 10 with the IDOLS but 02 underneath and IDOLS-11 for Jessica with 03 underneath.
I always go by performer # so I got my votes for Jessica right but I can see someone messing them up.
Maybe tomorrow night, if they don't just give them a pass this week, they need to start up the votes again and hold another show on Thursday.
I go by performance order too (I write 'em down so I know the #) but yeah, I can see at least a small percentage of the voters getting messed up, and that is SO not fair to Mikki, Anwar and Jessica.
They should definitely address this in a fair way tomorrow!
Originally posted by Lightning Lad:
Maybe tomorrow night, if they don't just give them a pass this week, they need to start up the votes again and hold another show on Thursday.
Exactly what I said:
IMPORTANT PROGRAM NOTE CHANGE
Due to an error with the graphics shown on-screen (incorrect voting numbers were displayed) during the performance recap at the end of last night’s AMERICAN IDOL, a live, one-hour show will air tonight, Wednesday, March 23 9/8c on FOX, to enable a re-vote. This new show will combine new live elements with encores of Tuesday’s performances from the remaining 11 contestants.
Phone lines will open at the conclusion of tonight's show and will remain open for two hours to give viewers the chance to vote for their favorite contestants and keep them in the competition. Only the voting results from tonight’s show will determine who received the lowest number of votes and will be sent home this week. Tune in to see who America has chosen to stay and who is sent home on the live results show tomorrow, Thursday, March 24 9/8c live on FOX.
RECAP
NEW LIVE SHOW & ENCORE PERFORMANCES THEN RE-VOTE - TONIGHT 9/8c
LIVE RESULTS SHOW - TOMORROW 9/8c
So remember to vote again tonight!
I wonder what intern got the axe for that big flub.
That is a huge mistake there! Huge!
I didn't get to vote last night 'cause I didn't finish watching it until 10:30.
My BEST TO WORST:
1. CARRIE--woo hoo! that was hot!! that was what she needed to do. it was freaking awesome.
2. JESSICA--it was weird at first, i think because they had to edit that song down to a minute, but she did it really well, and "made it her own"
3. BO--it was a low key performance, but i dug it. i love bo no matter what.
4. VONZELL--she's just so darn cute!!! it wasn't much different from the original, but it was good.
5. SCOTT--he still scares me , but he CAN sing.
6. CONSTANTINE--amazingly, i didnt HATE it, but his musical theatre roots were definitely showing.
7. ANTHONY--he's so bland. but, it was aight.
8. ANWAR--yeesh, that was not good for Anwar. i have that TOP 40 #1's book, and that song never went to #1. maybe on the R&B charts, but I thought this was supposed to be TOP 40 #1 night?
9. NADIA--she was all flash, and no substance. definitely her worst yet.
10. NIKKO--i've never heard that song and i never want to hear it again.
11. MIKHALA--too bad that was Taylor Dayne's only #1, because she COULD do TELL IT TO MY HEART some justice. Poor girl has the POTENTIAL to have a great voice, she just cant control it. Buh bye.
Now that I can vote tonight, i'm voting for Jessica. Carrie and Bo are safe, but jess doesn't deserve to be in bottom 3 again. i'd say Mikhala, Nikko and maybe Constantine will be in the bottom 3.
Damn I missed it! Will the performances tonight be yesterday's tape or will they be new, live versions?
All new again man!
Lets see if the ones that got less then stellar reviews from the judges tweak their performances a bit.
I still love Nadia and Bo. Nadia's just a great performer in my books. I liked her performance (and her hair) a lot. And Bo, doing a Jim Croce song, just won me over totally.
Sorry, I'm still not feeling Carrie. She's just so boring. But then again, I've already made up my mind about her and realize that I'm listening with "prejudiced ears."
Mikhala really has to go. Cute as she is, she can't seem to carry a tune.
Lastly, Simon really is full of shit most of the time. His pomposity is really wearing thin this year.
Originally posted by Bubble Wrap Boy:
Damn I missed it! Will the performances tonight be yesterday's tape or will they be new, live versions?
According to Fox they will be both. A mix of some new stuff with a re-run of last night's performances.
I was really hoping my son taped the show for me, but he didn't! Boo! Oh well, maybe someone in my family will tape it for me tonight! At least I can listen to the performances, and look at pictures, later in the week....
Wow, the phone number mess up is major! Yikes.
Okay, I got to hear the songs via a link at the aiByRequest yahoogroup. Here's my worst to best... (I've read several reviews already, and remember, I didn't get to *see* them perform.)
11. Mikala- I LOVE that song and the girl just shredded it to bits. Someone get her a coach. She needs it bad.
10. Nadia- I LOVE that song and I could not recover from her lyric flub. I don't think she could either. It was like I could hear the nervousness attack her voice. I hate rating her so lowly.
9. Anthony- It sounded like a mess. His voice was all over the place. Sorry, he can NOT take on both George Michael AND Aretha.
8. Jessica- I LOVE that song and the chopping up of the lyrics was really distracting. I'm sure if I had *seen* Jessica perform it, I might be swayed. Also, when it's about 12:30ish in the karaoke bar and some cute girl gets up there to do that song, it's just WAY more fun than in this setting. I guess I'm saying that this song's relevence has shifted IMO.
7. Scott- I LOVE that song, and both Phil Collins and Mariah have done such endearing renditions of it, to me, that it makes me a tough judge when someone else does it. Scott was aight. His voice sounded a little rough sometimes.
6. Anwar- I think he just gets nervous about being judged, that there are such high expectations of him. He seems to pull out a big note that saves his otherwise shaky performances.
5. Vonzell- Darn, I wish I could have seen her! She sounded fun during her performance.
4. Bo- Clear vocals on a mellow song. He did great, I'm a fan, so I wanted to like it.
3. Carrie- I LOVE that song and I thought Carrie sounded great on it! Again, I wish I could have seen her.
2. Nikko- This may be a surprise, but I don't know that song, so I can't compare it to the original, AND I didn't see the performance, so I thought it sounded great.
1. Constantine-- This just sounded really exciting and fun. I like his voice when he's "on." I love the song and I think he did it right. I'm even surprised that I picked it as my favorite! Heh!
If I understood correctly, the performaces will all be reruns from last night, with Live stuff featuring Ryan & the contestants mixed in-bewteen.
Okay, so I watched it tonight too. NEW DRAMA!!
Nadia's surprising mention of and sweet dedication to Mario obviously pissed Simon off... and it may very well cost her some votes tonight.
I can gauarntee you her comment about Mario and Mikalah's t-shirt ("My job is to ANNOY YOU!") will set the AI board on FIRE tonight. Mikalah... *giggle!* She's so FaaaaaaaBULOUS! I'm gonna to vote for her tonight, she's charmed me into it!
Also, I thought Scott's performance did NOT hold up as well upon a second viewing. However, I thought Constantine's was BETTER this time.
And Bo is just flawless! Jillikers, he's so cute!!
Ok, I got to see what I'd missed on Tuesday, YAY!
Anthony, hate the song, REALLY liked him though, he seems to be more of an entertainer than I would have expected.
Carrie, wow she blew me away. Loved this preformance, the only flaw, the hair... OY! Too Stevie Nicks for my tastes.
Jessica, thought she did well, wsa a victim of a bad butchering job of the song lyrics, just didn't flow but her voice was beautiful.
Bo... SO not a Bo fan. LOVED this, it was just beautiful to listen to.
Scott, if only we did have to SEE him preform the song, loved his rendition, but he still creeps the bejeezus out me. <shudder>
Vonzell, I LOVE THIS GIRL! She is just so damn effervescent. Mark my words she will be the star of AI4 regardless of whether she wins or not (she won't), she's an on air personality waiting to happen. In some capacity she will be in the entertainment industry and it will be in front of a camera and she will eclipse anything the winner may ever do.
Nadia, Love this song, thought she REALLY sucked. Can't figure out if she was rushing it or if it was her attempt to "rockify" the ballad. Whatever the case... terrible.
Constantine, ok, rather silly, needs to grow facial hair to hide his lack of a chin. The stringy hair ain't helping him either.
Anwar, ok song, thought he had a terrible overall performance, that whole 70's look just didn't cut it, he looked really uncomfortable trying to "get loose".
Nikko... Bobby Brown meets R. Kelly... I think not. Just too over the top for me.I kept wanting to hear him sing, it was like he was just under key for every note.
Mikahlah. Was a big fan of hers, with every passing week I grow more and more weary of her. Last night I just wanted to smack her. She was TERRIBLE. No way, no how she deserves to even be here much less stay another week.
Bubble, I agree with your take on Vonzell. I know she won't win AI, but I definitely believe she will be "A STAR". She doesn't have nearly the BEST voice in this competition, but she just may have the most "star quality". I like Carrie--I just wish she had half of Vonzell's spark.
Well, I kinda figured that one was coming. But after last night and her attitude tonight, I don't care if Nadia starts channeling Amy Lee. She'll not get another vote from me. Is she purposely trying to get herself voted out so she can hire Clay and Mario's lawyer?
I like Nadia's attitude and she's getting 10 votes from me next week even if she sings "I'm a little teapot." She's one of the few with any originality and she's definitely a bit of a rebel. Nevertheless, I've always found her gracious in accepting criticism. But more than anything, she's always been about performing and it was a total disgrace that she was in the bottom 2. But what can you expect from the people that made Kelly Clarkson and Ruben the American Idols. As for Simon and his annoyance with Nadia mentionning Mario, he can go to hell for all I care. His negativity and meanness just rings false this year - especially since this group of contestants is so talented.
I'd be remiss if I didn't mention what a class act Mikhala was. Her charm and sense of humor, and ability to put her loss into perspective make her a winner in my books. I think that she'll go far as a performer - she's got way too much charisma to stay off the stage for long. I predict Hollywood for her and wouldn't be surprised if she starts showing up on Fox comedy series next fall or even earlier.
I like and echo your comments about Mikalah, Semi. I feel sure offers are already coming to her. I'm glad the stupid AI MB posters will cease their bashing of her now. I believe I can safely state that she could have performed "Love Will Lead You Back" in any karaoke bar in the nation and everyone would have loved her.
As for Nadia, I gave her a vote Tuesday but didn't Weds. I gave 'em to Mikki instead (fat lotta good it did, but at least I won't feel guilty now!)
Nadia is still my favorite femme. I don't care how pretty and how much range Carrie & Jessica have, they can NOT perform anywhere near Nadia's level. Even her so-called "weakest" performance is better and more fun to watch than several current platinum-selling acts.
I *do* think she was purposely trying to push Simon's buttons with the Mario comment, but Hey! So what? He gets to treat others like garbage all the time and say the meanest thing he can. I can't say I cared for the Mario comment myself. I found it sweet but live on AI wasn't really the place to make it. And I *do* believe it really really hurt her in Weds' revote, but it did show Simon can dish it out but he sure can't take it.
I'm still rooting for Nadia!
Anyone wanna speculate on who will be next to go?
NOT a slight to Lindsey or Mikki by any means, but we're really getting down to some serious talent here.
Bo & Carrie aren't going anywhere for a while, so I'll skip them...
Anthony: Likely to be the first guy out. Now that Mikalah isn't around to bash anymore, the haters on the AI MB are turning their attention to him. First guy to hit the bottom 3.
Anwar: The dreadlocked dude gets duller and duller. Didn't really pull off the Chaka Khan song for me, but I think he'll stay awhile longer.
Nikko: Getting stronger and better every week, similar to George last year before he tapped out and began to decline. Maybe Nikko will avoid George's decline?
Scott: I think prayer is a wonderful thing, but praying that you don't get voted off or make bottom 3 on American Idol live on TV every week is just, well, CREEPY to me. But I've always found Scott to be creepy and I still don't like and cannot relate to him on any level, despite a couple of good performances. I'd really rather see him leave before Anthony.
Nadia: I thought the thinning out of the girls would cease after Lindsey & Mikki were gone, but after Weds. I'm not so sure anymore. I'd hate to lose her so early! I'd buy a CD of hers anytime! I'd love one of the songs she's done on AI!
Constantine: Has his share of bashers on the AI board, but the bescraggly one will be with us for the nonce, I believe. I'm kewl with that, he's pretty groovy!
Vonzell: Babydoll's been working it. People are beginning to sit up and take notice.
Jessica: Has already seen the bottom 3 once but is a great talent AND a professional who covered her lyric flub very, very well.
Who could it possibly be?!?!
My guess:
If it's a guy: Anthony
If it's a girl: Nadia (and I certainly hope it isn't!!)
I really wish I could have seen these last episodes. So much went on, and I know that there's more to it while watching the performances instead of just listening to them. Oh well....
Dean, do you ever read the messages from the I-by request group? I get 'em in digests and sometimes will read one. Anyway, both Lisa Lueuschner (redheaded girl from last year, sang "Sweet Thing", didn't make Wildcard show, Simon called "fat") and Amanda Avilia (didn't make top 12 this year, Simon wants to "come back as her microphone") have posted there recently. Pretty cool. Lisa has a CD coming out!
THIS week's theme is apparently 1-HIT WONDERS!
I like these "chart-themed" nights as oppossed to the more restrictive "Elton John" or "Barry Manilow" nights...
Now, if Carrie wants to ditch her "Boring Farm-Girl" tagline once and for all, she'll come onstage in one of her usual pristine layered outfits, and as she performs "More More More" by Andrea True Connection she'll shed more, more, more of her outfit to reveal a getup tht would shame Britney Spears!
Middle America will LOVE it, TRUST!
And I can see Constantine totally doing "I'm Too Sexy" by Right Said Fred!
Originally posted by MLLASH:
And I can see Constantine totally doing "I'm Too Sexy" by Right Said Fred!
please help us NO!
He's too sexy for Milan... too sexy for Milan, New York and Japan!
Well, his fans on the AI MB think so, anyway!
Not at all surprised that Mikalha went this week, she was rilly, rilly bad. But Anwar was pretty awful too (what has happened to him? He was great during the auditions) and Anthony didn't do it for me. I think Nadia can survive one flub like she did this week, but if she does it again she could be gone. I hope not because she certainly has the talent, but AI is harsh with things like that.
Carrie really managed to show how good she is this week, and also that she's not just a one trick pony. Bo did the same and as utterly fabulous (as always). Neither of them are going anywhere soon and could probably screw up big time and still survive just on fan support.
Jessica I think could be the dark horse of the competition. She's been good so far (even with the lyric flub) and could just get better. Same with Vonzell. In the elimination rounds she didn't really grab me, but her last couple of performances have been verging on great things. Plus she gets hotter and hotter every week. If she's lucky she could take votes from Nadia and take Nadia's place in the last few.
Scott creeps me out still. He can sing, but his sorta strip this week was just terrifying. I agree completely with Simon about it being a good thing the song wasn't any longer. What the hell was with him throwing away his glasses fer pete's sake?
Despite the fact that Constantine was actually *very* good this week, I still just don't like him. One really good performance might be enough to keep him round a bit longer, but I just don't see him making it all the way to the end. I hope not anyway.
And Nikko just leaves me cold. Another dull performance this week, very little stage presence and he just seems to be there to make up the numbers. I'd see him or Anthony going next, unless either of them manages to pull off a storming performance or one of the ohter lower down ones manages to screw up big time.
Going on present form though I'd want Bo, Carrie, Nadia and Vonzell to be the final four, and the final to be between Bo and.... oooh, Carrie, probably.
Pretty good night tonight, though not the theme the AI MB rumoured it would have. Too bad, I think it would have been more fun than 90s night!
Bo performed well. Jessica's song was dull but well-sung. Anwar's song was SO played out. Nadia rawked as usual! Constantine: choice. Nikko, blah blah blah, same ole same ole. Anthony, I liked it and am beginning to feel sorry for him because the judges (esp. Simon) are so mean to him!
Carrie is the cure for insomnia. Loved Scott's performance though I dislike the guy himself. Whitney, Vonzell? *tsk tsk* Do Anita Baker next time. She's not played out.
It's down to the time where you really have to vote for your favorites if you want 'em to stay. I'm casting votes for Nadia, Constantine, Bo, Anthony and Jessica.
I'd love to see Jessica knock Homecoming Queen Carrie off her float. And I'd love even more for Nadia to be last chica standing.
I'm so glad the Nadia was good tonight. I haven't watched it yet, but I always read your spoilers, Lash. I too would like to see Nadia as one of the final two. In fact, for me, the perfect final two would be Nadia and Bo. And in the final contest, they each have to do the same 3 songs. That would be a contest.
Semi Here's a couple more spoilers for you--
Nadia busted out with a Melissa Etheridge tune. Not the most melodic of tunes, but she worked it out well. My favorite performance by her remains "You Don't have to Say You Love Me", but I love it when she rocks out.
For me, Constantine is the most surprising every week. He takes on a Bonnie Riatt tune tonight and does it with perfectly rehearsed humbleness. The boy can pick his songs, no doubt. Randy calls him out as a non-rocker, but a theatre guy. Finally someone noticed! Constantine is about as genuine rock & roll as The Rocky Horror Show. And I'm starting to like him just as much as same!
Looking forward to your and everyone else's reviews as well, Sems!
EDIT-- I wanted to clarify that my comparing Constantine to the Rocky Horror Show was a compliment of nigh-massive proportions coming from me!
Wow, another performance where I didn't hate CONSTANTINE! He wasn't bad--he needs to keep going away from the "rocker" image, because I'm not buying that for a minute. What he did tonight seemed to be more of the 'real' him--a musical theater performer--not that's there's anything wrong with that.
I love me some BO, but I've never liked that song, and wasn't crazy about the performance.
I agree with Lash about JESSICA--bad song, but she sang it well.
NADIA..eh. It was sorta fun I guess, but I don't think she has the voice to pull that song off--esp. since Kimberly Locke did the definitive American Idol version of "I Cam't Make You Love Me". I know there's a lot of NADIA love here on LW, but she leaves me cold. Every hand movement, head bob, smile, seems so calculated.
Neither my friend I watched with tonight nor I had ever heard that song NIKKO sang, but she liked it. I thought he hit a few nice notes, but I didn't care for it.
SCOTT and ANWAR basically sang the same song they've sang every week. Usually, that's okay, but tonight was the worst for both of them, I thought. And PAULA'S praise of ANWAR proves once and for all that she's hopped up on the goofballs.
ANTHONY...hmm, did he sing tonight?
CARRIE--"Independence Day" is one of my favorite songs, country or not, and she did pretty well--I think she screwed up the lyrics at the beginning though. Hopefully, she'll skip country next week and go back to rock.
VONZELL--yay Vonzell! Best of the night! I never thought I'd say that about a Whitney song on AI. I was scared when I heard what she was going to sing, but she did really well.
Don't these kids have ANYONE helping them with song choice??? Again, I was baffled by the choices. I mean, I BELIEVE I CAN FLY??? No more!
I suck at this, but my predictions for bottom 3:
ANTHONY,ANWAR, SCOTT.
Who will go home: ANTHONY
Who should go home: SCOTT
Trying to squeeze the show in so we have time to vote. My thoughts so far.
Bo - disappointing. I think, if he wanted a Crowes song, he should have done Jealous Again.
Jessica - forgetable, boring. Expected better.
Anwar - ugh. How long can he keep 'rescuing' himself with the final notes? He's disappointing his students.
Nadia - I love Melissa Ethridge. And even though I cannot stand Nadia now I will admit she gave a good performance. Still won't get my vote though.
Contantine - yeah, he's a poser. But he's good and getting better. I get tired of slow songs on this show but I liked his performance.
Nikko - grade school talent show. And a poor one at that. I now believe his rendition of Georgia was a fluke.
Anthony - big notes do NOT make a song. If you don't care to make yourself clear to begin with then why bother? Man, the guys were disappointing tonight.
Carrie - liked it. But we know she can do Country. I would have loved to hear her sing a Melissa Ethridge song. If she flubbed I didn't hear it but she did kinda mumble the words a couple of times at the beginning.
Scott - did he look like a broken robot to anyone else at the start? Raising his hands and dropping them half a dozen times in the first 10 seconds? And he was way off pitch to my ears as well as those of my cat Lucky who woke up and looked at the TV not once but twice on his high notes.
Vonzell - good but for her choice of artist (all Whitney songs need to be banned). The ladies all just about hit it with me tonight. Definitely a bad week for the guys.
Hmm. I'll have to agree with Jack for the bottom three. Anwar, Anthony and Scott. I think Anwar has sung his last.
Now I just need to figure out who to vote for.
Vonzell - Tonight, I thought Vonzell was the best. She looked gorgeous. I'm just waiting for her to do Donna Summer's "Love to Love You Baby." Vonzell's a disco diva waiting to explode.
Constantine - Constantine was also very good tonight. The guy has a really nice voice. I closed my eyes to listen to most of the singers tonight and found myself thinking that I would buy a Constantine record.
Nadia - I didn't close my eyes for Nadia because she's just so hot. I love watching her perform and I really like her voice.
Bo - It was hard for me to judge Bo because I didn't like the song. But I think he's a great performer.
Anwar - Anwar breaks my heart with these mediocre performances. I really do think he has a lot of talent, but it's not been coming through these last few weeks.
Scott - I closed my eyes but his singing was so bad, that I prefered the visual -- if that's possible.
Anthony - The judges were awfully hard on him. He's a likeable performer.
Jessica - She has some very nice moments. I think she could be really good with a bit of voice training.
Nikko - I didn't care for his performance and I don't really like his voice. It's too thin for me.
Carrie - I still think she's really over-rated.
Who's going home? It should be Scott.
Lots of calls for both Anthony and Scott to go home tomorrow from the AI MB tonight. Several mentions for Anwar and Jessica too.
It's anybody's ballgame, I guess.
My fantastic son taped the show for me tonight. My review from least favorite to most...
10- Anthony- I LOVE and adore this song SO much. Fantasia sang it last season and to be honest, I sing this song at karaoke frequently. I do a better job with this song because I put more emotion and soul into it and I'm as white as Anthony! I know this makes me a harsh judge, but I'm also comparing Anthony's performance to everyone else's.
9. Nikko- He didn't do anything wrong really, just not very interesting. Last week, I only *heard* him perform and thought he was really good. I wonder what a difference that makes?
8. Scott- He sounded nice. I suppose my problem is that I can't believe the sentiment coming from him. Last Cry? Has he ever cried?
7. Anwar- I felt like he was trying *really* hard to be impressive. I felt like the comments Randy and Simon made about him were just right.
6. Jessica- I don't really know that song, but I thought it was kinda boring even though she did a fine job with it.
5. Bo- I thought all the running around was distracting from the actual song, but it was good overall.
4. Nadia- I love this girl and I thought the song was over too soon.
3. Carrie- A really strong performance. Again, I wanted more.
2. Constantine- I love that it was such an unexpected song choice and I think he did a great job with it.
1. Vonzell- This was easy for me. I love premium Whitney Houston, I love a gorgeous girl that can sing well. Vonzell was fabulous. I have the biggest crush on her!
On the AOL poll of who was best last night:
Carrie 45%
Bo 15%
Constantine 7%
Vonzell 6%
Anwar 5%
Scott 5%
Jessica 5%
Nadia 5%
Nikko 3%
Anthony 3%
UGH! I missed it again!
I hate my cable company for having the FOX channel so out of the range of the normal channels I watch, I mean I was home and just totally forgot! UGH UGH UGH!
Which Whitney song did Vonzell sing? I loves me some Vonzell! (That girl may turn me yet!
)
on tvguide.com, for the question 'who should be voted off tonight'
Scott 33%
Anthony 31%
Anwar 9%
Nikko 6%
Constantine 5%
Jessica 4%
Nadia 4%
Bo 2%
Vonzell 1%
Carrie 0%
Intersting tv guide pole, all the men would be voted off before the first woman would be shown the door.
Not quite. Nadia would be out before Bo.
Ah yes.... must have been the hair, lol.
Here's the current polling from MSNBC:
Anthony 28%
Scott 20%
Nikko 15%
Constantine 12%
Anwar 7%
Nadia 6%
Vonzell 4%
Jessica 4%
Carrie 2%
Bo 2%
And this is their current running of who should be the next American Idol:
Carrie 44%
Bo 26%
Constantine 6%
Anwar 6%
Vonzell 5%
Nadia 4%
Jessica 3%
Scott 3%
Anthony 2%
Nikko 2%
Originally posted by Lightning Lad:
Not quite. Nadia would be out before Bo.
As would Jessica.
Originally posted by Bevis:
Originally posted by Lightning Lad:
[b]Not quite. Nadia would be out before Bo.
Anyone else hiding behind Nadia's hair?
lol, I actually was talking about Bo's
WOW! That was a surpising bottom three.
I suck at predicting the bottom three, apparently.
I guess a lackluster song, even sung well, can send you home.
Heck, it doesn't even start here for another 10 minutes.
Well, I'm really disappointed that the thinning out of the girls has continued.
And I certainly agree with Simon that Scott should have replaced Nadia in that bottom 3.
Who will knock Carrie from her Homecoming float now? Apparently AI fans aren't too in love with Nadia anymore, and though I like Vonzell and stuff, well.. I liked Jessica and like Nadia MUCH more.
I was, however, really relieved for both Anwar and Anthony tonight.
It's pretty cool when you like everyone so much you don't really want ANYone to leave.
The AI board is aflame right now, everyone screaming why are Scott & Anthony still there tonight, one of them should have gone instead, etc. etc.
Well, where where her fans last night? I'm glad she was one of the 5 I voted for.
Originally posted by Lightning Lad:
Heck, it doesn't even start here for another 10 minutes.DON'T READ my post, Scott! It's spoiler-full.
That was a shocker. I really thought Anwar was going there for a second.
And Nadia did it again. Why is she so standoffish when up there in the bottom three? Last week Ryan had to physically force her to come up front and she still wouldn't look at nor go near Mikhala. She also didn't give either of them a hug last week like most do, to be comforting. This week she stood apart from Jessica and Anwar and it looked like she had to force herself to pat their arms when Ryan sent her back to sit down. She is just too cold.
BTW, did Jessica sing a different song tonight than she did last night?
Originally posted by Lightning Lad:
She is just too cold.
Agreed, it's the "likeability" factor that Simon pinned on Jessica, Nadia's got a variation of it and the tv audience is picking up on it. From the calculated mugging to the standoffishness on stage, she's a great entertainer, but she's not conveying a sense of warmth that the viewing public craving for.
I really like Nadia, so it's hard for me to understand why she's in the bottom 3. I wasn't surprised to see Jessica and Anwar there. Anwar was a lot better earlier on in the competition, but hasn't been as strong lately. Jessica just isn't very interesting as a performer. Although I rated Anthony's last performance low, he's still a good singer. I'm surprised Scott has enough fans to keep him out of the bottom 3. That's the thing about this show, you can never really tell who the viewers will vote off, despite one's own opinions. It definitely keeps it interesting.
It's kind of like Jennifer Hudson last year, I guess.
Fantastic singer, but they had a tough time even getting her IN to the top 12-- she didn't make it during her round of 8 (being beaten by Fantasia & Diana) and she didn't make it during the Wildcard round (being beaten by JPL). Finally, she made it when Randy himself put her there.
Once in the top 12, she saw the bottom 3 several times but hung in there for a while. And on the night she gave one of, in not THE best performances-- Barry Manilow night, doing "Weekend In New England"-- she was out the next evening. America never warmed to her. I sure liked her, though.
And this year, the talent is SO tight-- even ONE poor song choice can destroy you.
Jessica would have been much better off doing a more recognizable Leann Rimes song like "How Do I Live" or "One Way Ticket".
I guess we see what we want to see, depending on whether or not we like the person. I don't see standoffishness in Nadia - I see dignity. And I disagree that she wasn't upset by Jessica's leaving. I saw it on her face. Now the one that I didn't think showed any emotion was Carrie. She was an ice queen. But, as I said,we see what we want to see. I don't like Carrie, never have and never will - so I'm biased. Her little tidbit about her Daddy cleaning his shotguns when her first date showed up made me cringe all the more. Around my office, they call her the redneck.
I'm being a total AI nerd right now.... I'm going back and downloading all my favorite performances from past seasons and listening to them over and over.
The fun thing has been to listen to auditions and performances from pre-top twelve. They've let a lot of really good singers get away.
Here's a gem...Kimberly Locke's version of "Anyone Who Had a Heart." She blew Vonzell away.
I do think that this season's competitors are holding their own in the AI archives.
I've been exploring those files too. Loved hearing "Phantom of the Opera" again. I Listened to Mario's "Do I Do" again, twice. Was blown away. There is not one iota of amateurism to be found in his performance(s). Sounds like I'd have bought it at Spin Street.
Yep, I'll totally bet the more competitive-minded in the top 12 were SOOOoooOOO very relieved when he bailed.
Found a cool link....watchidol.com!
Fantasia's supposed to perform on the next results show!
OK, so this week's ep is on now. Jessica has been on and was good, but didn't do a very good song.
And now Anwar has just finished. OK, so first I will admit that I detest R Kelly and of all his whiny ghastly songs I detest 'I Believe I Can Fly' the most.
Only Anwar just made it even more awful. He was out of tune all the way through, he was straining his voice and just sounded bloody awful. Urgh, he so should have gone this week.
I'll be back later after the others...
Nadia: Eh. She was OK. Much better than last week, but it didn't grab me.
Constantine is singing now. Don't know the song but it's a bit dull. I can't see the Tv so I don't know if he's being annoying visually (probably is) but it's not made me go wow.
Oh, and Bo earlier I thought was dissapointing. Not a good song (in fact none of the songs have been good yet) and just a bit... well, it was the kind of thing that Bo can do in his sleep. It wasn't anything special of different.
Nikko: Gosh, that boy sure can shout can't he? I have no idea about singing though because all he did was *shout*. He and Anwar both need somone to sit down to them and beat it into them that performing one huge in tune note at the end does not mean that you're performed well.
And what are Randy and Paula on tonight? Apparently everyone has been fabulous but not one of them has actually impressed me at all.
Oh, Anthony has started now.....
OK, he can join Nikko and Anwar in the 'how not to shout' workshop. Actually a very good song but very poorly performed. I mean, he wasn't out of tune or anything but he's just... he's so bloody dull.
Carrie: Heh heh heh. The whole red neck chick isn't just an act is it? The whole 'my Dad was cleaning his shotguns' story was so blase it made me smirk.
Oooh, Melissa Etheridge, and one of my favourites too. I've gotta go watch this one.
Perfectly in tune, she looks cute, she's getting her personality across on stage now abnd she's learning to be a performer rather than just a singer. The song was much to short, it didn't give her a chance to really get going, but certainly the best performance tonight. In fact the only really good one so far (Bo was good in terms of the performing with his hat and stuff, but Carrie beat him hands down in terms of vocals).
OK, from the almost sublime (potentially) to the ghastly. Scott. Does he actually know what tune he's supposed to be singing? He sounds like someone is repeatedly kicking him in the knackers (not a bad idea in my book) and seems to think that if he shoots up and down the scales (slightly off all the way up and down) then we'll not notice the fact that... well, he's usually in tune but has no personality (or what personality he has is just creepy) and just isn't of any kind of interest.
Oooh, Vonzell next but it's ad break time so back shortly.
OK, another disclaimer, I hate Whitless Howling and this is one of my least favourite songs, but...
OK, so Vonzell did do pointless warbling in a few points (when will singers learn warbling like that doesn't mean you can sing?) but she showed a fine example of how you *can* have the huuuuuuge notes without actually sacrificing the singing as well. She looked damn fine too (not as hot as the last couple of weeks, but still mighty fine).
Oooh, they're recapping and Anthony is even worse second time round. Urgh.
Yeah, so back to Vonzell. I think she's going to be one to watch now, she's got better every week, but I still... I dunno, I kinda feel that good as she is, and beautiful as she is she just doesn't have that certain something that sets her apart from everyone else. Not so much in this competition, but in the world of music. She's kinda like Latoya (or was it Letitia?) last time in that she sings very, very well but you just feel that she's not quite all she should be. Does that make sense?
But, purely in terms of performances tonight I'd rate them (from top tp bottom):
Vonzell
Carrie
Bo
Jessica
Nadia
Constantine
Nikko
Anwar
Scott
Anthony
All in all then, not a very good nigth from anyone, apart from Carrie and Vonzell and even then neither of them made me sit back and go 'wow'. I was very disappointed with Bo (because he's usually so damn good) and Nadia seems to have gone a bit flat. I'm not nearly as excited about the final any more. They all really need to pull it together otherwise it's gonna be almost as tedious as the final of Pop Idol 2 here in the UK.
Oh alright, not that bad unless Bo and Carrie get booted before the final, but nearly.
This is so much fun!
I only saw a couple episodes of the first season of AI, so I was really late getting to know those contestants. I saw the finale and I fell totally in love with Kelly Clarkson. I also thought Justin was great, so right up til the announcement, I had no idea who would win. After the season ended, I bought the dvd and Kelly's album. I was hooked... The most dramatic thing that happened that season was that Tamyra only made it to 4th place. I think everyone thought she'd be at least in the top 3.
In season 2, there was no doubt that Ruben, Clay and Kimberly Locke (KLo) would be the top 3. It was just a matter of which order they'd finish. Every week, I knew for sure that I'd be thoroughly entertained by these three in particular. The others were okay, Josh Gracin has a country career now. Trenyce was cool. Kimberly Caldwell is on the TVGuide channel a lot now. Carmen was terrible (but cute!). I didn't vote, but all along I was rooting for Ruben. Then, on the night of the announcement, I was kinda hoping it'd be Clay. Still, they pretty much all won.
Last season, I fell in love with Fantasia immediately. Her performances were always really good. I appreciate Diana, but was never a big fan of hers. I LOVED Latoya, too. Couldn't believe that it wasn't a contest between her and Fantasia. In fact, if it had turned out that way, I think it would have been really good tv!
Last Christmas, when Kelly, Ruben and Fantasia had that special, I knew it was right that these three should be the title holders. They sang "You'll Never Walk Alone" a sort of gospel/spiritual song. I couldn't imagine anyone else doing that song. Each one of them did their part just perfectly.
So far this season, Bo is my favorite. I realize that Carrie is really making a strong showing, though. I hope Bo does something really amazing to keep that edge. I think I have equal admiration for Nadia, Constantine and Vonzell. The rest can fall away and I'd be aight.
Dean I really enjoyed reading your AI history! Mine's all right here in this thread, as I completely missed seasons 1 & 2.
As for this season, Carrie still leaves me cold. I'm totally rooting for Nadia, Bo and Constantine for top 3.
At first I was put off by Con a bit, as I was mesmerized by Bo's flowing locks and cavemanesque good looks! But after seeing Con do everything from Seal to Partridge Family to Bonnie Riatt to The Police, I've really come to like him. I think stuff he does, like his OH-so-practiced goo-goo eyes, his "call me!", his little "rock & roll" kick during the goofy group song, etc. are so cheesy and endearing.
Hey Dean, do you know if the MP3s on the AIbyrequest group are downloadable to a blank CD? I'd love to collect Nadia, Jennifer, Camille etc. on 1 CD!
Yes.
I made a cd of all of Fantasia's performances last season. I purchased her actual album cd in the store though!!
I've always liked Nadia more than Carrie, except for that Time After Time performance. In fact, I went back and watched when Nadia performed "There's a Power" and "Try a Little Tenderness." She was so cool. I've posted several times about my love for "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me." Yeah. I love me some Nadia!
Originally posted by MLLASH:
As for this season, Carrie still leaves me cold. I'm totally rooting for Nadia, Bo and Constantine for top 3.
At first I was put off by Con a bit, as I was mesmerized by Bo's flowing locks and cavemanesque good looks! But after seeing Con do everything from Seal to Partridge Family to Bonnie Riatt to The Police, I've really come to like him. I think stuff he does, like his OH-so-practiced goo-goo eyes, his "call me!", his little "rock & roll" kick during the goofy group song, etc. are so cheesy and endearing.
I second and third everything you said.
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
Yes.
I made a cd of all of Fantasia's performances last season.
GROOVY!!
Step 1: Go buy blank CDs.
Step 2: Ask Dean how to download MP3s! (if it requires a CD burner I'm outta luck)
Willikers! I'm nervous about this week!
Will Anthony sing his last or will "The Fedoration" (his online fans) come through again?
Will Anwar pull out of him slump? Or will the "Anwarrioirs" (his online fans) pull him out of bottom 3?
Will Nikko grab his crotch again?
Will America warm back up to Nadia or will she be sent packing?
What unexpected number will Con do next?
Will Bo continue to turn me on? Will I still be jealous of his hair?
Will Carrie sound pretty but appear to be a porcelain Stepford Idol again?
Will Vonzell look hot? The "Fanzells" know she will!
And lastly, will Scott's semi-scandal dump him squarely into the bottom 3?
I MUST KNOW!!!!
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
[b]Yes.
I made a cd of all of Fantasia's performances last season.
Step 1: Go buy blank CDs.
Step 2: Ask Dean how to download MP3s! (if it requires a CD burner I'm outta luck)
**Uh, I do believe that you need a cd burner in order to burn cds. Still, it's superfun to have them on the computer. I play my favorite AI songs while I discuss Legion. I blend both worlds and I'm SO happy!
Willikers! I'm nervous about this week!
Will Anthony sing his last or will "The Fedoration" (his online fans) come through again?
**I've lost my interest in him. I'm no member of the Fedoration. I mean, he *did* underwhelm me on MY song (Something else else About the Way...)
Will Anwar pull out of him slump? Or will the "Anwarrioirs" (his online fans) pull him out of bottom 3?
**I hope he does something to deserve being backed by Anwarriors!
Will Nikko grab his crotch again?
**Ew!
Will America warm back up to Nadia or will she be sent packing?
**NADIA NADIA NADIA NADIA NADIA
What unexpected number will Con do next?
**Heh!
Will Bo continue to turn me on? Will I still be jealous of his hair?
**I'm jealous of his hair, but I admire his showmanship more.
Will Carrie sound pretty but appear to be a porcelain Stepford Idol again?
**Maybe it's because I'm not instantly into country music.... I think Carrie's talented but not my type.
Will Vonzell look hot? The "Fanzells" know she will!
**I'm a FANZELL!!!!!
And lastly, will Scott's semi-scandal dump him squarely into the bottom 3?
**Whatever.
I MUST KNOW!!!!
**Thanks for all the fanclub names, Lash! Didn't know them before!
[/b]
Bo's fans are The Bice Squad, a cute name!
So the 2 rumours are that tonight's theme is either "Coast to Coast" or "Broadway" night, but the AI site has been wrong half the time about the themes this season. Dunno why they're being so secretive about the themes this year. I'd still love a 1-Hit Wonders night.
I have it on good authority that Carrie thinks she's been exciting enough. She's decided to tone it down for the rest of the season and will be choosing her selections exclusively from the Anne Murray and Celine Dionne songbooks.
Scott has started to believe in himself a little more and will now add crotch-grabbing to his small but trusty repertoire of gestures.
Constantine finally reveals that Austin Powers is in fact his father.
Nadia will be doing her hair in two big 'fro pigtails and singing "On the Good Ship Lollypop," which she will dedicate to Mario. Simon will pee himself.
Anwar has decided to skip his song and go straight to the final note which he will hold for his alloted one-minute of screen time. Paula, will give him a standing ovation.
In a misguided attempt to change his image, Anthony will wear chaps and a leather vest. It will later be revealed that his nipple rings were clip-ons, though.
What about Bo?
Bo gets in touch with his feminine side. In a move he'll surely live to regret, he lets Carrie and Vonzell perm and style his hair. The result, a cross between Texas big-hair and a Supremes 60's wig, is the height of irony with his over the top performance of Eric Burdon's "Please Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood."
Tonight was kind-of just "ehh" for me.
But there WERE some standouts...
1. NADIA. Even the Nadia-naysayers must have been touched by her performance. It brought a tear to my eye. I just adore her. She owns the stage in ways that Carrie and Vonzell only dream of. She brought my personal house down!
2. CONSTANTINE. Not only did he select the BEST song of the night-- "My Funny Valentine", a tune I have an odd fascination with (and small collection of disparate performances of)-- but he owned the viewing audience. The sexy spin he put on it was brilliant. I'm glad he's fully revealed himself as an actor and not a rocker. Hopefully Simon will never call him "rocker" again.
3. BO. An easy breezy lighthearted romp, thoroughly enjoyable. Simon was way off base here (and wasn't he just OH so even HARDER to please than usual tonight).
The rest all ranged, for me, from "aaight" to "ick".
Simon's comparing Carrie's performance to watching a 1965 washing powder commercial was hys-freaking-terical. And though she sounds lovely, I completely agree. Lots of commercial-jingle singers have beautiful voices!
If anyone other than Anwar, Anthony or Scott go home tomorrow, it will be criminal. I think Nikko's still semi-hanging in there, but only barely.
Guess which 3 get my votes tonight?
I'm not going to give a play-by-play for this week since, like Lash, it was kind of just "ehh" for me too. I had hoped for some better song selection. Maybe they'll take Simon's suggestion to heart (if Ryan really does pick the themes).
I'll also agree with Lash on Contantine and Bo. Constantine is really coming into his own, more and more each week. I just wish that the music hadn't overpowered his performance. But still it was the best of the night.
And a big thank you to Simon for calling the 'big note' singers out. He said exactly the same thing I've been saying. A big note does not make a song.
With all the great songs to pick from, I was under-whelmed by the songs that were chosen.
Scott was awful. He was seldom in tune and his voice had a really grating quality. He kind of sang "The Impossible Dream."
Vonzell looked amazing. She sang "People." It was ok, but not great.
Nikko was really boring and I just don't like his voice. He sang one half of a forgetable duet from West Side Story.
Constantine was very good, but it was hard to hear him over the band. I'm beginning to think Constantine has a really good shot to take it all. He sang "My Funny Valentine."
Anthony did a pretty good job with "Climb Every Mountain." He made it sound like a pop song. The judges were way too harsh with him.
Anwar was good, but not memorable. He's a jazz singer and should pick those sorts of songs.
I actually liked Carrie this week, even though the song was not memorable. Her hair looked nice. She sang "Hello Young Lovers" (or something like that) from The King and I.
Bo was good, but the song was not memorable. It was "Corner of the Sky" from Pippin. I kept thinking, "You goofball - why didn't you pick a song from "Hair" or "Godspell" or "Jesus Christ Superstar". There are lots of songs in those musicals that suit his voice.
And then came Nadia. She blew me away just standing there in that long white gown. She's a star - not question about it. The song again was not memorable but she sang it well. There wasn't much range to the tune, but the tonal quality of her voice is so pleasing, that I forgot about that.
All in all, a disappointing week. Not so much for the singing, because most of the singers were quite good. Rather, I was disappointed because just about everyone chose a lacklustre song. What a waste.
Who should go? Definitely Scott. I wouldn't mind if Nikko left either.
I agree that song choices were a problem tonight. However, I'm almost sure that when I give second and third and in most cases... MORE listens, I'll like the performances more.
Here's my review, least favorite to most...
9. Anthony. I actually liked the way the song was arranged and presented, but he needed to totally nail the vocals, and he didn't. He looked distracted, too, like he knew he wasn't hitting it. I keep reminding myself that he's really young.
8. Scott. Diana, Fantasia, Kelly and Ruben did that song at the finale last season, and yes, they are a potent group, but individually, each one of them was better than Scott. I've always thought that he has a great voice, but he just didn't have control of it this time. Again, an ambitious song that needed a great voice. Didn't happen.
7. Nikko. I just think he's unremarkable. I don't really know West Side Story that well, so I don't recall the song, and Nikko didn't help that.
6. Vonzell. We all know that I'm a Fanzell, so I want to rate her higher, it's just that I felt like she was out of her league. I agree with what Simon said about last season, when Fantasia and Latoya did Barbra Streisand songs. Each of them made it their own. Vonzell kinda did that, but she needed to TOTALLY do that.
5. Anwar. A solid performance. I have no critiques, but I also didn't feel that affected.
4. Bo. I agree with Semi about his song choice. He could have chosen something that would have blown us away, but he just pointed a finger at a song. Still, he's so charismatic and he did a solid vocal performance. It made me curious about the song and the muscial it came from.
3. Carrie. I can't get over Lash's comment about her being a Stepford Wife! She totally looked that part tonight! Still, she looked very pretty and sang very well. Another song I don't really know, but she owned it.
2. Constantine. A great new arrangement for that song. It could have been a *calamity* but he pulled it off. He's cheesy, but it's part of his schtick. At least he laughs along when Simon calls him out on that.
1. Nadia. I don't know that song, and the reason she's #1 for me is because she makes me believe that it's HER song. She looked totally stunning. Her charisma and sex appeal combine with her sexy voice, making her my favorite this week! I know this word is thrown around a lot, but she was DIVA!
Is it just me or does this year seem a little... I dunno, lacklustre? We clearly have some *very* good singers (Bo, Carrie, Vonzell, Constantine and Nadia, when Constantine and Nadia are on form) and the rest aren't bad by a long shot, but the last few weeks have mostly just been... 'eh'. There have been very few performances that have been absolutely outstanding. Nothing to compare with Fantasia doing 'What Are You Doing For The Rest Of Your Life' (which is still one fo my favourite AI performances ever. Heartbreaking and beautiful and the point that she showed quite how good she is) or Latoya or Jennifer. Nothing that hold a candle to Clay or Ruben. They just seem... good, but not great. Bo and Nadia have come close, and Carrie has a perfect singing voice but hasn't got the personality she needs. Vonzell is very good, but is still missing that something that made some of the other contestants so good, and the songs all seem to be so dull. Maybe not dull, but there's been nothign that comes as a complete surprise and is fabulous for that. Maybe I'm expecting too much based on previous years but for some reason despite the obvious talent in the group I just don't feel as passionate about anyone as I have in the past. When Jennifer got voted out I was absolutely mortified because she was fantastic, but even if Bo (my current favourite) went early on I wouldn't feel like that. I'd be annoyed but not upset really.
Hmmm. I think everyone really needs to up their games if they have any chance of really being truly memorable.
I missed Scott but caught everyone else, and for the most part thought they were solid, albeit boring, performances.
I thought Anthony was TERRIBLE. I cringed throughout the whole performance. I think his teeny-bopper looks will carry him far, but I also think he runs the risk of Simon's merciless wrath a la Nikki in season one if he hangs on for too long in the competition based solely on his fanbase.
I felt like I was suddenly watching a new, improved, "colorized" version of the Lawrence Welk show when Carrie was out there, I kept looking for the bubbles!
Bo, yuck, PLEASE someone do something with that hair! It just lays there. If you're gonna keep it long then at least do something with it, for God's sake you've got Hollywood's best hair stylists working on you, take advatange of it, maybe a Michael Hutchence (INXS) perm... anything! The one positive thing you can say about it is that it looks VERY clean. (how unrocker-like lol)
Nikko... blech, I can't ever understand anything he sings and I've come to realize it's because he hits the undernotes to everything, he never seems to let the notes actually evolve and develop, he just moves along to the next one. I love West Side Story and had no idea what he was singing.
The two people who stood out for me were Constantine and Nadia, and I can't say I've been a fan of either. I thought Constantine ran the risk of being drowned out by the band early on but pulled it out, love that song. And Nadia looked and sounded amazing, inspite of the signature harsh, over-the-top facial expressions... I really want to like this girl, I just need to look away and listen to her perform when she's on.
What the AI MB fans are screaming....
Big favorite of the night... CONSTANTINE by miles. ANWAR got several mentions. NADIA got many nods.
Bo-bashers are taking Simon's comments and running with them in an attempt to throw mud on the deelish long-locked Alabamaian. This would really irritate me, except that I think Bo is suffering from "backlashitis" like Carrie. He was praised so heavily before that those that dislike him are taking advantage of his current sistuation. Carrie-bashers do the same thing. I guess it's all part of the fun!
Top 4 mentions for Bottom 3:
1. Anthony 2. Scott 3. Anwar 4. Nikko
With a dead heat between Anthony and Scott for who is likliest to go home.
Bev, I somewhat agree with your statement. I think the performances paring down the 24 to the 12 were FAR BETTER than the performances of the Top 12, with a few exceptions.
Paula Abdul is a total mess. I was getting offended last night that someone as obiviously drugged up as she was is allowed to be on TV.
Scott and Anthony were heinous last night. They were both painful, really.
Nikko still does nothing for me. Meh.
Anwar recovered nicely from his last few weeks of being lousy. He was actually good for the WHOLE song, not just the "glory notes".
I love Bo, but I was underwhelmed last night.I agree with Semi--Bo should have done "Easy to Be Hard" from Hair. It was just okay.
Carrie sang well and I give her props for going outside her 'comfort zone', even though I wasn't crazy about it...I think she is smart to "mix it up" and show her versatility.
Vonzell was good, even though I've never liked "People" very much. She looked GORGEOUS, though.
Nadia and Constantine need to stop trying to be 'rockers' and just be what they REALLY are--a young Shirley Bassey and a Performing Arts Major, respectively. They aren't my favorites, but I think they did well last night. Contstantine reminded me of Jeff Buckley. I don't think Connie was too happy with Seacrest for calling him out on his camera schmoozing.
I found it interesting that Simon backed away from his usual praise of Bo and Carrie. But, he does that every year---praises one or two contestants every week, gets flak about it, then bashes them for a couple of weeks. He did the same thing to Fantasia last year. He knows EXACTLY what he's doing.
So, Nikko's out. No big surprise. Also no surprise that Scott was second to last. Man, he had a rough week of fame! It was a surprise for Vonzell to be third from last, especially since it seemed like Anthony bombed. I guess he has a lot of fans, or fans with quick phone dialers!
Fantasia was just great! I like the way she did little changes in "I Believe" so you could really feel like she was live live live. She's such a funny person, too. "ACT UGLY!" Hee! I'm SO using that! She brought down the house.
There's a REAL problem at the aiByRequest yahoo group concerning racist comments back and forth. The moderators have had to step in and ...moderate...people. It's so weird. It seems like AI forums go through that a lot. There are some wacky people posting at AI forums. That's why I like it here at our cozy, safe Legion World Anywhere Machine!
Yeah, those other forums can really act... ummm, ugly sometimes.
I was a little surprised Scott didn't get the boot but his time is coming and soon. VERY surprised to see Vonzell in bottom 3, but all the girls seem to suffer from lack of support this year except for Homecoming Stepford Lass. Nikko's exit was no huge surprise but I would have liked to see the "Comeback Kid" last another week.
Anthony and Anwar may very well be picking up votes from the fans of the departed Jessica, explaining their safe status this week.
I was very pleased my 3 favorites were all safe.
As for Fantasia... well, there's no denying her stage presence but I really didn't care for that performance at ALL. For me, it was borderline ridiculous and may have actually crossed the line into ridiculousness with all that acting up. I found myself thinking that I much preferred the talent this year. I would take Nadia over Fantasia any day.
Those jeans made Fantasia's ass look ENORMOUS.
'nuff said.
I'm so glad I decided to skip the first 10 minutes of last night's show.
Hey guys, I had to go out to dinner last night and missed the show. I checked here at 6:45 (PDT) for spoilers - but there were none. I had to sit and worry all through dinner. Please don't do that to me again.
Actually though, the seared sea scallops, the bacon wrapped monk fish, and the Lavendar infused creme brule made up for it.
I broke down and started listening to some mp3's of this season. She may be robotic on stage, but Carrie has the best RECORDING voice. Her voice ON RECORD is amazing.
Scott actually sounds pretty good on some songs when you don't have to look at him.
Without her visual star power, Nadia sounds very week on recordings. Same for Constantine.
Originally posted by Semi Transparent Fellow:
Hey guys, I had to go out to dinner last night and missed the show. I checked here at 6:45 (PDT) for spoilers - but there were none. I had to sit and worry all through dinner. Please don't do that to me again.
heh! I figured I'd give a rest to jumping on in with my rantings 2 seconds after the show ended. It won't happen again!
Yeah Lash. What's the big idea with not keeping us updated?
I'm a sucker for some spoilers and love logging in to see your reaction since you get the show an hour or two earlier than we do.
Duly noted! My 2-seconds-after-show-ends rantings shall resume and continue!
Two seconds! Can't you do it faster than that?
Yeah, Fantasia was "acting ugly" but I liked it!
I'm still and AI mp3 addict. Now I'm finding myself liking songs that were done on AI, then I go to iTunes and do a search to see who else did the songs before. Like, "You'll Never Walk Alone" has been done by mega stars like Streisand, Elvis, Judy Garland, Olivia, Perry Como, Pat Boone, etc etc. I had NO idea.
Anthony did a pretty song in the Hollywood rounds called "When You Tell Me That You Love Me" which was done by Julio Inglesias and Dolly Parton. I had NO idea.
Music. Makes the people come together. Yeah.
Hey Sketch--do you know where I can find mp3's from Season One? Specifically, Kelly Clarkson's performances. Man, I still remember when she sang that song, "I Surrender". She had a cold and they were saying she might have trouble with it, but she was still amazing. I had no idea what that song was...turns out it's a Celine Dion song. Guess that's why I had *no* clue!
Just bumping this up so Lash'll have no trouble finding it for his review tonight.
POPPING freaking PLANETS. Maybe the best AI I've seen ever. Absolute top-notch song choice and so many hella-kewl performances I had a difficult time deciding on my favorite. Theme was SONGS FROM THE YEAR YOU WERE BORN.
I'll run down, starting from the rest and ending with the best (and even the "rest" were WAY above average)....
8. SCOTT, "She's Gone". He did the chorus proud, but he took an axe to the verses. In a week as tight as this, it might cost him hard. Hall & Oates sure seemed impressed though!
7. VONZELL, "Let's Hear it For the Boy". A little Queer as Folk-5-Years-Agoish and she strained on a couple of the lower notes, but otherwise peppy and fun.
6. CARRIE, "Love is A Battlefield". A bit too screechy for my taste, but I *really* liked carrie's image-change.
5. ANWAR, "I'll never Love This Way Again". A sweet song I've always loved performed sweetly by a sweet man. It was sweet!
4. NADIA, "When I Dream". Disclaimer: I was a huge Crystal Gayle fan as a kid and still owm her Greatest hits vinyl lp. Crystal's slow lullabye is a classic but I LOVED Nadia's sexy, bluesy, soulful take on this song and absolutely LOATHE Simon's comments toward her tonight. Nadia ALWAYS picks the most awesome songs, and interprets them in an entertaining fashion. She sounded very Mary J. Blije-esque.
3. BO, "Freebird". Sweet Home Alabama! Bo was right in his element tonight. Maybe a smidge TOO in his element. I *almost* switched his and Nadia's places...
2. CONSTANTINE, "Bohemian Rhapsody". Oh dear. Connie's done shushed ALL the naysayers tonight. I'll go ahead and predict: Constantine's gonna take the WHOLE enchilada this year.
1. ANTHONY, "Every Time You Go Away". Yes, that's Anthony in the # 1 spot, folks. He was spot-on faboo tonight, and I was so proud for and of him. Superb job.
I was really blown away by the whole night tonight.
Tomorrow night is going to be a TRAGIC letdown for whomever is sent home after tonight's great show!
I thought CONSTANTINE was the best tonight. I never thought I'd say that!
I gotta give CARRIE props for 1)trying to "rock out" and 2) lookin' HOT! Wasn't crazy about her song though. 1983? She should have done "Solitaire" by Laura Branigan!!!
I had the feeling BO has performed "Free Bird" many times before.
Hmmm, RYAN was digging ANWAR'S pecs, wasn't he??
I'm definitely not an ANTHONY fan, but that was his best performance, in my opinion.
No one was out and out awful this week, so it's hard to predict a bottom 3, but I think it'll be Scott, Nadia, and either Anwar or Vonzell(which would be a shame, she was fun)--with Nadia going home. NADIA sounded just fine, I guess, but not only was that song kinda dreary, she had the dreaded #1 spot...people will forget to vote for her.
I only had 15 minutes to vote after I watched it, and dialed Carrie's line dozens of times and only got through once.
Upon reflection, I decided to switch Bo & Nadia's places in my rank, putting Nadia into the # 3 slot. I managed to clock in about 8 to 10 votes for her between a couple of busy signals.
Saw onlp pieces of this as I kept running in and out of the room. The thing that struck me was how god awful some of the arrangements were. Vonzell's tune was stuck in mid-tempo, it never had the pep that the song requires, so as a result though she sang well, it just lagged. Same with Anwar, the arrangement just sat there. Didn't see Nadia at all but saw her 10 second recap and was alarmed by her hair, oy! Scott was all over the place, the chorus of the song was absolutely perfect for his voice, but as Randy commented, the low notes were dreadful. Missed Connie, loved Carrie, yes a bit screechy but she looked amazing, was surprised at how mediocre the judges were towards her. Bo was great, as would be expected given the song and his style of singing. Anthony finally came into his own.
I'm hoping it's Scott this week, his arrogant comments towards the end left me cold.
BWB, not having seen this weeks yet I can't really comment on the band ths time round, but last week I thought on a few songs they were *appaling*. I think it was with Constantine (almost being drowned out) and I think possibly Vonzell where the band just seemed to be playing completely random notes that had no bearing at all on the actual tune.
I'll be interested to hear yout take on it Bevis, I too thought Connie was in trouble last week when the band was drowning him out early in the performance.
Some of the arrangements were too "Lawrence Welkish" for my tastes... almost like a carry over from last week. I'm curious as to how much of this is the singer trying to "make it their own", and how much of it is their having to sing it in a particular way because of the arrangement, and whether that arrangement is forced on them or not.
I only saw Nadia last night. Once again I loved her. The judges comments seemed way off-base to me. So what if they didn't know the song? They're always asking people to be original. Then when someone is, they get down on them. I think the judges' comments really influence the voting. For some reason, they have decided that they don't want Nadia to win. (Am I being paranoid).
Anyway, after Nadia's song, I had to put the puppy to bed, and I noticed a swollen puss-filled bump on his abdomen and had to rush him to the emergency vet. He's ok, but I missed the rest of American Idol.
That fucking sucks. They saved the thuggish pig who can't sing, and sent my favorite home. I'm not watching this piece of shit anymore.
Semi, they've (the judges AND the fans) had it in for Nadia ever since her shout out to Mario Vasquez, and since realizing that this is one babe who'd rather sing an obscure ditty than a number one hit. Yes, the one-time "steak among hamburgers" quickly became dog chow amidst caviar.
And the judges are full of bullshit when they say, "be original, take a risk" because the moment someone does just that, they're told they need to go home. Me, I'll be watching and waiting on ANY news re: Nadia Turner. And if you thought I loved her version of "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me" before, well... she freaking BLEW ME AWAY with it tonight. MAD STUPID AWESOME. I adore her.
My Mother was in tears and I was in a state of shock. But we aren't worried. Girlfriend's a STAR, baby-- TRUST.
I'm going to continue watching but my excitement is severly lessened.
I'm just praying ANYONE-- even "Slappy"-- beats out Simon's precious little Carrie for the title.
And on the AI board, Scott is being referred to as "the turd that refuses to be flushed" and Nadia fans are screaming bloody murder, while the Bice Squad is rallying to save their # 1 guy.
*sigh* I think I need a wee li'l break from all this. I may very well be all drama-ed out. I shudder to imagine how much MORE difficult this year would be had Mario stayed in the competition.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
This just in!
Constantine has appeared on TV before!
He was a contestant on the cheesy ELIMIDATE, where he was subjected to verbal abuse from the other players about his "thrift store" clothing and long hair. Yes, he was eliminated.
This is, it turns out, incorrect! He actually WON on Elimidate. Apparently you can download the episode.
Originally posted by knowjack:
Hey Sketch--do you know where I can find mp3's from Season One? Specifically, Kelly Clarkson's performances. Man, I still remember when she sang that song, "I Surrender". She had a cold and they were saying she might have trouble with it, but she was still amazing. I had no idea what that song was...turns out it's a Celine Dion song. Guess that's why I had *no* clue!
There are a lot of Kelly Clarkson yahoogroups that have mp3's, but I found a fairly complete set of songs at
www.idolexperience.com I think they're missing her performance of "Think Twice" which is *brilliant.* I'm with you, too. I've learned all kinds of songs by watching AI that I never knew before.
I've been away from home since last Saturday, but I was visiting with the in-laws on Tuesday. We were playing dominoes in the dining room, but I had Idol on in the living room. I got to hear the performances pretty well, and take a peek sometimes...
8. Scott. I've liked his voice in the past, I just thought he was really shouting this song out. I don't like being yelled at.
7. Carrie. From the other room, I thought she was screaming, too. From Pat Benatar, that's cool, not from Carrie.
6. Bo. It wasn't really bad, it's just that that song is golden, shouldn't be touched unless touched really REALLY well. I thought he was okay.
5. Anthony. Cool! A song that works for him. I thought he'd been losing it around here.
4. Vonzell. A fun song, that brings back memories for me. I was a senior in high school that year!
3. Anwar. I like the song a LOT and it worked for him.
2. Nadia. I'm such a fan of hers, it's hard for me to not rate her highly.
1. Constantine. I couldn't believe he pulled it off. In fact, I think I've said that before about him. He's really working it!!
The results show....
Well, I'm bummed. I love me some Nadia, so the show is just not going to be the same without her. I wonder what they'll have her do in the finale? (I'm already thinking about the finale; that's telling....)
I loved Bo's attitude about winning or losing! That's awesome. SO rock and roll!
I wish it was Scott who was voted off.
You're kidding me right? Nadia? Jeez, I thought this year was going to be great during the first few rounds before we got to the final twelve and so far it's just got suckier and suckier each week. Why on earth Scott and Anthony are still there when Nadia has gone is beyond me. Carrie is probably the best singer in the bunch but she lacks personality on stage and Bo is consistently lovely and great but has picked some pretty tedious songs the last couple of weeks. Vonzell could be great, but I still feel she doesn't have that extra something to make her unique. Nadia was the only other one who I really liked, and she's gone?
Ugh.
I'm nearly as annoyed as I was when Jennifer went last year (final three shoulda been Jennifer, Fantasia and Diana) but unlike last year where halfway through pretty much everyone left was damn good this year I'm just not feeling it. I don't get the Idol vibe from any of them, apart from maybe Bo but if he does win I can see him going off and doing his own thing which might mean that he'll have a Tori Amos career (as in very sucessful at what they do but not commericaly sucessful in terms of things like singles). That'd probably be a good thing for him, but it's hardly 'American Idol', is it?
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Semi, they've (the judges AND the fans) had it in for Nadia ever since her shout out to Mario Vasquez, and since realizing that this is one babe who'd rather sing an obscure ditty than a number one hit. Yes, the one-time "steak among hamburgers" quickly became dog chow amidst caviar.
And the judges are full of bullshit when they say, "be original, take a risk" because the moment someone does just that, they're told they need to go home. Me, I'll be watching and waiting on ANY news re: Nadia Turner. And if you thought I loved her version of "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me" before, well... she freaking [b]BLEW ME AWAY with it tonight. MAD STUPID AWESOME. I adore her.
My Mother was in tears and I was in a state of shock. But we aren't worried. Girlfriend's a STAR, baby-- TRUST.
I'm going to continue watching but my excitement is severly lessened.
I'm just praying ANYONE-- even "Slappy"-- beats out Simon's precious little Carrie for the title. [/b]
Let's get tickets to Nadia's first concert - wherever it is, I'll fly there. I hope she gets a contract real soon, independent of American Idol.
Guess "God's Plan" for Nadia was for her to come in 8th!
While I wasn't a fan, I do admire the fact that she didn't try to pander by only singing "hits".
Good lord, I read on some gossip site that Nadia and SCOTT SAVOL are maybe dating? Nooooooo.....
Carrie was wearing a "Vegetarian" tee shirt in one of those clips! I MUST vote for her now. Gotta support my fellow non-flesh eaters.
Hey SKETCH, thanks for the link to mp3's!!!
I *still* listen to Kelly Clarkson's mp3's from when she was on the show. I just collected all of Nadia's performances, so I think I'll make a cd out of them and listen to them whenever I want.
My latest song addiction is the big upcoming single "When You Tell Me That You Love Me." I did a little research.... It was originally done by Diana Ross in 1991. Then, it was covered by Dolly Parton and Julio Iglesias! Sounds great by all of them. Both Anthony and Jessica sang it during the Hollywood rounds, they both sounded great. The song will be on an upcoming cd by someone named Michael Ball. I'd never heard of him, so I did some research on him. He's a British man, who's been performing for over 20 years. I think he was in Phantom of the Opera. The bulk of his songs seem to be from Broadway, but he also covers pop hits. I'm not sure what I think of him, but I have to admit that I like his song choices, even some of the cheesier stuff like this 40 something year old man doing Donna Summer's "Hot Stuff." I can be cheesy, though. Does Michael Ball ring a bell with anyone?
Anyway, this is what AI does to me. I get to like a song I previously didn't know, which leads me to find other versions of it, which leads me to artists I never knew before. Ah, the internet!
Michael Ball is one of the biggest musical stars here in the UK. Considered one of the definative Phantoms and has also been in the original staging of a lot of Lloyd Webber musicals. He was also the original Professor Potts in the musical version of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. He's a *big* name here in the UK.
All that being said I think he's shite and would rather listen to fingernails on a blackboard than listen to him making every song sound so utterly bland that your ears start to bleed.
LOL!!!
I designed a cd cover and created an 11 song playlist for a Nadia cd. The only problem is, even though there are TONS of cd's all over my office, NONE of them are blank, so I can't burn the cd! Off to the store...
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
I designed a cd cover and created an 11 song playlist for a Nadia cd. The only problem is, even though there are TONS of cd's all over my office, NONE of them are blank, so I can't burn the cd! Off to the store...
FOR THE LOVE OF FRED, can I buy one off you? Ooooh, oooh, both versions of "You Don't Have t Say..."!!!!!
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
I have to admit that I like his song choices, even some of the cheesier stuff like this 40 something year old man doing Donna Summer's "Hot Stuff." I can be cheesy, though.
I dont't think anyone should ever sing "Hot Stuff", except a bona fide diva, and she must -- absolutely must --- appear totally disinterested when performing that number for it to work. Otherwise, it is indeed cheesey.
Semi, for REAL, I wanna see Nadia! I figure because she placed low and torqued off the AI brass, she'll be "let go" when her contract expires after the summer Season 4 tour, so any record deal SHE IS SURE TO GET will certainly be outside AI. GOOD, I say!
Jackie, don't believe the Tabloids! They could snap a picture of me and my MOM while we are out shopping and try to make it something it isn't. I believe Nadia was very well-liked and can see her & Scott being pals what with the religious beliefs and all.
I saw this over a week ago, but just now remembered to point it out... prepare to LAUGH!
http://www.garybrolsma.net/
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
I saw this over a week ago, but just now remembered to point it out... prepare to LAUGH!
http://www.garybrolsma.net/ It's really a very catchy tune. I could listen to that.
My kids were ga-ga over that song last summer! It's so funny that that Gary kid made that home video of it, and has become so popular on the internet with it. Even funnier to have it made into an American Idol toon!
I know I didn't like Fantasia's performance the other night, but I heard her song "Babymama" this weekend and was instantly addicted! That song is WAY kewl!
This goes out to all my babymama!
I've got love for all the babymamas!
Listened to Nadia's "When I Dream" tonight and loved it even MORE this go-round. They were STUPID to let her go! STUPID, all of them STUPID!!!
I agree, Lash. Her song choices were pretty cool, across the board. She'll be fine. She's a star.
Is Anwar gay too?
Look here.
And you'll all be glad to know that Nadia denies dating Scott.
But we knew that.
And, lastly, uber-cutie Travis performed at a
gay hip-hop event.
Goddamnit! We had no sound for Constantine's entire performance. Didn't get it back until Ryan was talking to him. Was he any good?
Yep, links to Anwar's gay personal ad on Blackplanet have been making the rounds at the AI board for a while now, and appears to be 100% legit.
Travis.... dreamy perfect-faced hot bodied beautiful-smiley Travis... in the family?!? Well of course! Jillikers, I hope he's down with the swirl!!
Tonight's show.... it was kind of... weird. mainly because it was "70s Dance Classics" night and I hardly knew any of the songs selected. Plus I really really kept thinking, "I wonder what Nadia would have done...?".
Anyhoo, from least to most favorite, keeping in mind all were pretty good...
7. ANWAR. Hmm... wasn't really feeling it much.
6. CARRIE. This song should never be touched by anyone but Donna Summer.
5. CONSTANTINE. Why oh why oh WHY didn't he pick one of the other Bee-Gees songs? He could have super-cheesed it up!!
4. VONZELL. She pulled it off really well I thought!
3. SCOTT. Yes I'm surprised as you are at his high ranking, but it was absolutely my favorite song choice of the night, and not a bad vocal either.
2. BO. The Bice Squad will be partying tonight... hope they don't forget to vote first, though!
1. ANTHONY. Yeppers, Blondie takes the top spot yet again! And again, I'm as surprised as you are. Good song, though I wasn't really familiar with it, I really enjoyed his performance of it!
Hmmm... What song would Nadia have done.... *dreamy speculative sigh*
Jillikers-- my Mom's at 41 votes and counting for Anthony! i think she has a crush on him!
Well, I broke down and watched it and was underwhelmed, but basically agree with Lash, except that my order would have put Carrie at the bottom, then Scott, then Vonzell. And I would have switched Constantine and Bo's positions. See, practically the same.
The most insightful part of Lash's review and the part I echo strongly is "What would Nadia have done?"
Anthony surprised me last night. he seems well suited to those up temp songs.
Scott I DID NOT LIKE.
Constantie---was he going for a John travolta look by way of Rocky Horror Picture show?
It always helps for me to watch this twice before I make my comments. Watched it first with a group of friends, then again at home.
7. ANWAR. So very nasal. Didn't care for it at all.
6. VONZELL. Love her, but that wasn't very good at all. Very screechy.
5. CONSTANTINE. Eeek, the eyeliner! Did he ever get out of that one key? I may have not always liked his performances, but at least he's never been boring. Until last night.
4. ANTHONY. That was the only song I've never heard before. He sang it well, but he's just soooo bland. He looked pretty cute though.
3. CARRIE. That was...weird. She seems to look really good one week/bad the next. The band was overpowering her on the low notes, but she rocked on the high notes. I can't decide if her tackling Pat Benatar and Donna Summer songs is ballsy, or just clueless. I'm leaning towards clueless.
2. BO. He sounded very good. The only reason I'm not putting him #1 is because in my mind, "Vehicle" isn't a dance song.
1. SCOTT. I know, I know. I can't stand him, but LAST NIGHT, he was the best. There was nothing wrong with that performance at all. That's a great song, and he sang it perfectly. That said, I still wish he'd go home tonight!
My prediction for bottom 3: Anwar, Scott, Vonzell.
With ANWAR going home.
I like to create my reviews after my first look/listen to the performances, then I go to one of the sites that puts up the mp3's an listen again.
I actually missed Constantine's and Carrie's performances, so I won't rate them, but, from the little recap shots, it sounded like both of them sort of yelled through their songs.
From least favorite to most favorite...
Anthony...He looked like he was desperate to be doing well. Very uncomfortable. I don't know the song, so I felt no attachment to the performance at all.
Bo...it was a very "Bo" performance, which is a good thing. It just wasn't much of a dance song.
Scott...Maybe being in the bottom 3 with Bo and Nadia, then being the "safe" one did something for his confidence. He sounded like he was in control of his voice and the song suited him.
Anwar...I want to like Anwar more than I do. However, he did a fine job on that song, so I'm rating him pretty high.
Vonzell...Even though she did the 90's Whitney Houston version of this song, it went pretty well. She's so cute and the song was so fun, I have to give her my #1 vote.
I, like many of you, kept thinking "What would Nadia have done?" I totally feel her absence from the show. Wah!
Now I'll go listen to the songs again and see if my ratings change.
So, I just listened to Carrie and Constantine's performances. Carrie actually did quite well on that song until that last big, long note. Maybe she should have adjusted that one a bit? Still, I'll be placing her pretty high in my revision.
Constantine... well, I thought he sounded great and that he made this song quite his own, BUT...
I could not quit thinking about Jimmy Fallon and Justin Timberlake from SNL, doing the Barry Gibb Talk Show....
"Talking it up.. on the Barry Gibb Talk Show!
Okay, so after I listen to the rest, I'll post a new review....
My revised review, based on listening to the songs again...
Carrie. This isn't her genre. She's been really good on other types of songs.
Anwar. Maybe he should find a song that starts off with a great big note, so he can shake his nerves right away, and get on with things.
Anthony. Same remarks as in my first post. He just seems like a wannabe. I just thought of a song for him....The Final Countdown. Can't you hear it? "We're going to Venus!"
Scott. Good singer good song for him.
Vonzell. She's a Whitney Houston wannabe, but she's good at it and is WAY cute.
Constantine. He's a star. At this point, anything he does becomes his own.
Bo. He's a total individual, totally knows himself and his style. He's confident and doesn't care about being judged. That's cool when it's backed by major talent.
So who has taken the stage for the final time on AI?
Alleged "insiders" at the AI MB claim that the bottom 3 will be/are: Vonzell (10.5% of vote), Anthony (10% of vote) and Scott (4.8% of vote).
If this is true, then Slappey will be taking his final bow. The boy can sing fine but it will be a relief to never have to hear his speaking voice again.
Well, they had 2 out of 3 right... but once again, Slappey was safe! Jeepers H. Festus! Maybe it'll be okay... maybe they won't ask him any questions or interview him any next week...
Never liked who got booted. The person always looked like deer caught in headlights when singing.
Still waiting for the show to start here.
What a bunch of crap. I can just see it now - the final 2 -- Carrie and Scott -- the two that make me puke.
After the deer in the headlights comment I expected that. Is Scott threatening to throw phones at everyone if they don't vote for him? I just don't get it.
Actually, I wasn't responding to RTVU2, I was commenting on the voting public. Sorry if it seemed I was commenting on RTVU2's opinion. I would never do that to my esteemed and refined friend.
Thanks Semi. I highly respect your opinion also. And I was trying to be spolier free as i could.
However I think Carrie is good when she is relaxed. She really has a sparkle then. Also I was impressed watching her playing the guitar. I expected Bo know how to play buy was surprised to see her play. No surprise that Constaine didn't know to play an instrument.
Constanstink was busy working the hair
I admit I enjoyed watching Carrie with the guitar. Best I've liked her since early on this season. Wasn't real wild about the group song though.
I just don't understand why that Scott is even getting voters, let alone still allowed in the contest at all..... Don't they have rules and standards? Doesn't the fact that he was convicted of beating the mother of his then 3-week old child mean anything?? It is wrong that he is taking a spot from someone deserving. When they found out Frenchy had sold photographs of her large breasts to a siate on teh internet they booted her out of the competition. Why does Scott get to stay? His past transgressions are a helluva lot worse then what Frenchy did, in my book anyway......
Originally posted by Semi Transparent Fellow:
What a bunch of crap. I can just see it now - the final 2 -- Carrie and Scott -- the two that make me puke. That would be a nightmare, but the two of them do seem to have large followings. Scary's fans would vote for her if she farted into a paper bag! Scott's large following? His own ass of course!!!
You guys are being a little mean, but I understand... it's elimination night. Wednesdays are always stressful for AI fans.
Caroline, it seems what made the difference for Scott but not other past AI contestants who have been booted for infractions is that he was forthcoming about the details of the incident up front.
Well, perhaps the reason that Scott is always looking skyward and thanking God every time he wins means he had a religious conversion or a big change in his evil ways. If he really and truly goes through life never having domestic violence again then that would be wonderful. I just think about the stress that the then new mother must have been under, her hormones raging, the tiny little baby crying a lot, and then getting beaten by that big guy.
And, I don't know about you guys, but when Ruben and Kimberly were featured guests who sang on the new show 'Life On A Stick' their performances all around (singing and acting) were pathetic. Seeing them used like that was kinda pathetic. Another sad thing is the reports that Paula has been abusing pain medication for supposedly years for an unspecified cheerleading injury. One report said she was asked to stay seated throughout Idol in fear she might fall if she stood up or walked around during the shows. She is too young and vibrant and loving to suffer an abuse problem supposedly so severe. If this is true, I hope she can pull out of it and be happy and successful.
The drugs would explain alot of the behavior she has been exhibiting this season. She is been even more nonsensical then past seasons.
I wish Carrie could show the spark and likability she shows in her interviews (and hello, playing the guitar last night! ) in her actual performances.
I'm sure 'country night' is coming soon. I hope she doesn't do another "new country" song. I'd love to hear her do a Patsy Cline song. In fact, a "Classic Country" night (nothing post 1980?) would be good. Well, for me anyway!
So, should the judges be held to the same moral standards as the contestants? If
this is true then maybe we'll see a change in the judge lineup.
Well, I'm not going to begrudge anyone else's fun... there's been plenty of contestants this year I'd love to bang myself... Mario... Travis... Anthony... Bo... Nadia... *mmmmmmmm*
Is it warm in here?
But I'm not one of the AI Judges. I'm willing to bet Simon's had a go-round or two himself with some AI hopefuls.
Whether it's true or not, this Corey Clark boy is an obvious asshole. I do like that shirt he's wearing though.
I perused the AI board today! Here's some general stuff you might find interesting!
Laytoya London's CD is due out in May.
May also apparently sees the release of Constantine's band's CD, entitled "Pray For the Soul of Betty", featuring Con on lead vocals. I'm kind-of surprised this isn't against AI rules or something.
AI Season 3 6th place John Stevens (yep, Johnny Red himself!) has a cd coming out June 28th. I kid you not, even before Jennifer. Weird, huh? There's a website for it and everything. Apparently you can listen to it or parts of it, and the consensus is that it's going to be very very good-- if that style of music (Sinatra/Connick crooner stuff) is your bag. It's titled "RED". His record label? MAVERICK. You know, the record label founded and owned by none other than MADONNA herself.
It seems the immortal Miss Crystal Gayle herself spoke up last week to applaud Nadia Turner's version of "When I Dream". Nadia appeared on Ellen and sang "You Don't Have To Say You Love Me" to the delight of Ms. Degeneres, who is apparently a big fan of Nadia's. Ellen has excellent taste, says I. Also, I found the ginchiest all-Nadia message board, and plan to join up to keep up with any Nadia news!
Meanwhile, my own excitement over AI is fading fast.
Vonzell just doesn't touch my heart like Nadia did, Bo's getting a little boring, Anthony's done well lately but he's had more misses than hits, I'm starting to think Constantine is the musical equivalent of "All talk, no action", and I can't get past the fearful horrendous notion that perfect pristine power-noting country Carrie and pity-vote pirate "Slappey" Savol will be the final 2. *shudder*
Anyhoo, here's hoping someone-- ANYONE-- surprises my socks off tomorrow.
I know exactly what you mean Lash. This week I didn't think anyone was really bad, but no-one made me go 'wow' either. Bo was just going through the motions and to me seems to be bored witht he whole process. Constantine I found ever so slightly creepy and he's just a stage singer trying to do something that he thinks is 'edgy' but comes across as being far to mannered and thought out to be actually very interesting. Vonzell is gorgeous and can sing mighty fine but I dunno, she just lacks that certain oomph that could make her great. There are just too many singers out there almost exactly the same and she has nothing to set her apat as being unique. Carrie is a great country singer and in her own field, left to her own devices, would probably be fabulous but just hasn't looked comfortable on stage apart from in the group song (which was awful imho) when playing the guitar with Bo actually, I'd love to hear them do a rocky country duet. They'd probably work very well together). Scott is still creepy as hell, and just dull. Anthony, who despite being better the last two weeks than he has been in the rest of the contest, is just a whitebread pretty boy with nothing to make you feel he's a star (plus his neck is freaky). Anwar was ever so nice but ever so boring and just relied on the big notes.
So while I still think Bo is great he's not an American Idol and while I think Carrie *could* be great, she's not shining on AI. Same with Vonzell. There's talent here, that's for sure, but nothing that sets them apart from other wannabe singers as there is with Diana or Fantasia or Jennifer.
AI4 started off way more interesting than it is now. I suppose all the colorful characters of the early rounds, and the variety of levels of talent had a lot to do with that. In previous seasons, I fell in love with particular singers like Kelly and Fantasia (okay... and Ruben, too). This year, I began to fall in love with Nadia, but now she's gone. In fact, I think this would have been a different competition if Mario had stayed in it.
For me, the best way to finish this season off would be for Constantine and Bo to be the final 2, a sort of battle of the rockers. I doubt that will happen. I also wished last season would have been a battle of the divas, Fantasia versus Latoya. Anyway, Bo is my favorite of the batch, now.
It's funny, last Tuesday seems like it was a million years ago. I'm not sure that's a good thing.
Apparently, tonight it's current rock or something. Anything post 2000 allegedly. I've heard that Constantine sings "Drops of Jupiter" (which I hate) and Carrie sings "First Cut is the Deepest" (which I love)
The thing I saw had what Bo and Anthony are singing, but I didn't know the songs. There were of the 3 Doors Down/Matchbox 20 variety of music, of which I'm NOT a big fan.
Meh. I'm not excited about tonight. Hopefully, I'll be pleasantly surprised and there will be some good performances.
I agree, to make the best of the situation as it is now, Bo and Constantine as the final two would be the best result. I think the competition between the two of them would also make them take interesting chances musically, instead of the same safe old stuff that usually gets foisted on us. That said, I won't be watching AI4 anymore, but I'll continue to read the updates. (Tonight I have a date with Blade Trinity from Netflix, instead of AI4) Maybe if the competition whittles down to Bo and Cosntantine, I'll pick it up again.
When's Nadia's album coming out!!!!
The theme was indeed current music, 2000 to present, and a blah night overall it was.
Carrie was off key through the entire song.
Bo's performance was good, but was a shadow of the popular song.
Vonzell needs to leave the low notes to Nadia and stick with her high notes.
Scott showed in full detail why he should have left at least 2 weeks ago.
Not everything was a dissapointment, however....
Constantine picked my favorite song of the night. I'd always wanted Bo to do this Nickelback song but was pleased enough and not really surprised that Con chose it instead. Nowhere near the vocal of the original "This is How You Remind Me", but he sure as heck was fun to watch perform. Mom loved it as well!
And once again, 3 weeks in a row, ANTHONY takes the top spot for me. Blew me away. Not really a bigg fan of the song, but it can't be denied Anthony brought it home!
Also, I was startled about how rational and intelligent Paula's comments were tonight!
Only heard Carrie's performance so far but I think that fiddle had a lot to do with her sounding off-key. That was one sour fiddle and, as with a lot of the music this year, it was over powering. Can't they tell the music is drowning out the performers?
SCOTT-- big spoiler follows this line!
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Semi, I'm sad to hear you won't close out the season, I always enjoyed your comments! You may be interested to know that Simon's only comment to Slappey Savol after his passionless, weary performance was "Pack your bags".
Anyhoo, I wish you had seen Con's performance. He was really workin' it. I guess he showed me he isn't "all talk, no action" after all...
I've listened to the songs, didn't see the show.
6. Carrie. Sorry, this is the kind of music I have a hard time being patient enough to listen to. I clicked on something else before she finished.
5. Vonzell. Don't do a Christina Aguilera song, kids.
4. Scott. I'm glad I didn't have to see this. It sounded only okay.
3. Anthony. Love that song, but Kelly already did an amazing job with it in season 1. Plus, it's one of only a handful of Celine Dion songs I like, as done by her.
2. Constantine. He did great.
1. Bo. I suppose since Bo's my favorite, he'll have to really stink a song up for me to give him a low rating.
Another week of the blahs for me. I agree with Lash in that I would have rather heard Bo's strong vocals on that Nickelback song than Constantine's. Con's voice just has this weird quality to it that doesn't fit that song.
But none of the performances really stood out, to me. We may see some surprises in the bottom three tonight as a result. I wonder if Ryan will start with his usual 'we broke a voting record'.
OMG, what a HORRENDOUS evening. They all sucked. There was something wrong with just about all of them, the worse, by far being Constantine, he wasn't singing AT ALL, more like shouting over the band, yuck! Tip for Connie... one kick at the camera looks sexy, several in the same performance, looks trite and tired.
And you could tell he knew he was in trouble the way he kept pandering for votes afterward, much more so than usual.
And I got a chuckle out of Simon's comments to Scott, clearly he's sick of him and wants him out, he was more brutally honest than ever, and not an ounce of regret, "Pack your bags"!
I am gald that Bo didn't do the nickelback song and Constantie did, even though he did suck.
I think Nickelback is such a poser rock band that Bo would never pick a song by them. That's why Connie got it becasue he is just a
poser anyway.
Wow, what a washout. I didn't like anyone last night.
WORST TO BEST, I guess:
6. CONSTANTINE. I mean, really, that was just gross. Screechy, poseur-y, and just horrendous. And who knew his mom was Jerri Blank from TV's Strangers with Candy?
5. SCOTT. Lordy, I hope this is his last week. And pity the Cleveland tourism industry--who's going to go there now knowing there are a "million guys" just like Scott there? Yikes!
4. CARRIE. Her worst yet. The arrangement was awkward, and she seemed behind the music the whole time. Still, she showed some personality...but, meh.
3. VONZELL. Mediocre at best, but on a lame night, she's #3. I love that she has that cute,bubbly personality but SHE CAN KICK YOUR ASS!
2. BO. I have never heard that song, and can't say I want to again, but Bo was Bo, and that's a good thing. And his mom is the hottest "gospel" singer I've ever seen. She must have been like 12 when she had him!
1. ANTHONY. He was a little too "wispy" at the beginning, but my residual love of Kelly doing this song from season helped me enjoy AFed's performance. His family was cute--and apparently Ryan is hot for Anthony's bod.
I feel so ashamed. I "accidentally" watched AI4 last night. It wasn't my fault!!! Blade Trinity did not arrive in the mail from Netflix.
The whole show was lacklustre. Any excitement seems to have gone. All the eye-candy got voted out or quit early. I can't say that any performance interested me. I do think that Anthony has a nice voice, if he stays in his range. But honestly, I can't ever see myself buying a record from any of these "top" six.
If Bo put out a record that was staight up rock, none of that pop garbage, I'd buy it. If Constantine was part of a cast album for a Broadway show, maybe something like Chess, I'd probably buy it. The others? Forget it.
And this is totally a coincidence but Murray Head's One Night in Bangkok came on my MP3 player just as I was about to hit the Add Reply button.
I just read the message boards and found out who got sent home. Really, I don't believe it. This shouldn't be called American Idol, but American Idiot. I can't believe that Pig Boy is still there. What's this country coming to? First Bush, now Pig Boy. Wouldn't surprise me in the least now if he's the last one standing.
Spill. Its another 90 minutes before it airs here and I can't get near the boards. Must be overloaded.
I'll send you a pm, Scott, just so that I don't spoil it for anyone else.
Jesu Fracking Christos! You know, fans did this last year too, voted for the worst one and now apparently they've pushed the least talented individual into the top five. I hope all those idiots are having a good laugh.
I don't know what it is, but the talent seems to be going first. Whether you liked the one sent home tonight or not, he/she was versatile and had a pretty nice voice. I just don't understand it. If Scott wins, that might be the end of AI, because I don't think they'll sell any records with him.
(Edited to unspoil)
ARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRGH!!!!
Bad enough Slappey beat Constantine....
I am completely outraged at the treatment of Anthony and Vonzell tonight.
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I know I'm in the minority, but I like Scott. I've liked him from the beginning. I like his voice, I've voted for him every chance I get (except the week that Nadia left... I voted for her like crazy, but it didn't help).
To me, Scott is better than most of the other contestants. Constantine, Bo, Carrie. I think Scott is much better than them. But that's me. Though, I don't think he'll win. Previously I thought the winner would be Nadia, but now I think it will be Vonzell.
I was very surprised that Carrie didn't end up in the bottom 3 because I thought she did awful last night. And I was even more surprised about who did leave. While I thought this week was one of his worst performances (and he butchered a song I enjoy), I didn't think he would leave. People voted for Anthony more than him? That was shocking.
Anyway, this was a really interesting week.
Caroline didn't get to see the performances last night so we are watching them right now. Slappy wasn't even in key for one note and Constantine's performance was better the second time around.
If I get sucked into another season of this I think I'm going to pick the absolute worst of the lot (think Crazy Mary from the auditions) and create an auto-dial program to jam the lines with votes for him/her. So them what America 'really' wants.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
I am completely outraged at the treatment of Anthony and Vonzell tonight.
How were they treated? (I haven't seen the show and won't be watching - Blade Trinity arrived)
Semi, they were placed together as were Carrie and Bo. Connie & Slappey were asked to join the group they thought they should be in. BOTH went to Bo & Carrie and refused to budge until Ryan anounced that Con was in the wrong group.
It was horrible, because you could tell it kind-of hurt Vonzell and Anthony's feelings, though they kept smiling as best they could.
It was shabby on Con & Slappey's part, and it was shabby on the AI producers part as well.
And Slappey's grinning and laughing after Constantine's departure was announced just made me ill.
I caught the SOB's smiling and laughing when the camera cut to the others. I don't really want to wish ill of anyone, even this bastich, but if he were to step off a curb near me I think my car would have to develop a steering malfunction.
That sort of stuff worked the first season for shock value, but it's tired and disrespectful now. I've lost whatever little taste I had for seeing people humiliated.
I am sorry but I am happy that Connie is gone.
Hmm. This might explain a few things.
Interesting.
Originally posted by RTVU2:
I am sorry but I am happy that Connie is gone.
He wasn't for everyone, but he's still my Greek Cheese Casserole!
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Hmm. This might explain a few things.
Interesting. I personally don't think that has any effect on this competition. Scott got to where he is based on his abilities.
Excuse me while I clean the spit off my monitor. That one about made me choke.
I really think that elimination night should be about celebrating the one who has to leave, instead of goofy guessing games about who it will be. Basically, now the audience gets to talk about how cheesy the show is, on top of how they feel about the results.
I was totally surprised that Constantine was cut. I thought he had tons of fans, certainly more than Anthony or Scott.
So, it's all about Bo, for me now.
Bloody hell, Constantine went? We've been talking about it here at work and have been saying that almost anyone could be for the chop now since no-one really stands out, but we'd assumed that of the ones left Bo, Constantine and possibly Carrie were the safest by far so for Con to go before Anthnony and hideous Scott is a huge shock. Gosh. I wonder if that plays well for Bo in that he's the only rocker left, or badly in that maybe the rockers just aren't getting the votes.
Originally posted by Haggard Lad:
Originally posted by MLLASH:
[b]Hmm. This might explain a few things.
Interesting. I dunno. You get a couple hundred thousand votes from fans of this website, and in a tight competition it CAN make a difference. Click on "History of the Pledge"... it explains how their support last year of John Stevens and then Jasmine Trias may have had a fairly sizable impact.
WoW, last night's show totally turned my stomach. Constantine was AWFUL Tuesday night but based on so many of his other performances he deserves to have been in the Top 5, and if he had song as well on Tuesday as he did last night he might still be with us.
Creepy guy should have left WEEKS ago, ugh. He is SO gross! I hate to say it, but he's making it into the Top 3. I also think Simon will either totally become belligerent when judging him (a la Nikki in season 1) from now forward because he is so disgusted that he's still in the competition, or totally back off for fear of getting his zombie/groupie following fired up and continue voting him. The longer Scott stays in this competition, the more of a farce the show becomes, and the more of a pariah he becomes to the judges and most of the viewing audience.
Wow.
Don't get me wrong, it doesn't bother me that I won't see Constantine anymore, but the Scott still being there thing? Weird.
Since it's SO obvious the final two are going to be Carrie and Bo, I'm going to be voting for Anthony and Vonzell like crazy next week. I've never voted for either of them, but Scott must go next week!
Wow, I haven’t watched this show ever, but I just found out some cool news:
My cousin Marisa, who’s my age (23) actually dated one of the contestants on this show for about two months or so last summer. He’s the one who just got voted out, Constantine. She met him in NYC and had a ‘fling’ with him for a bit when he was in the play Rent as the lead, Roger.
I’ve never seen the show and actually only have a rough idea of what he looks like, but I thought that was pretty cool. So my cousin knew a famous person before he was famous, which is kinda cool, even if I never meant the person
I'm ready for this season to be over, I think! I'm tired of being so into this show, but I just can't quit watching!
I'm "power voting" for Vonzell tonight. I want her in the top 3 with Bo and Carrie. I might even throw some votes Anthony's way--he deserves to outlast Scott!
Anyone gonna watch the "scandalous" report on AI on ABC tomorrow night???
I'm not gonna miss it! It comes on after AI at 9, right?
I think I too will vote for Baby V and Anthony tonight.
Yeah, now that it's May and the weather's so nice and all, time for the AI finale!
Well tonight was fun!
Everyone sang 2 songs each, the first a classic and the second any song from the current top 40.
My rundown:
ANTHONY: Was only "ehh" on the oldie, more at home on the Backstreet Boys.
SCOTT: Alright on "On Broadway", lame on the already-lame Brian McKnight song.
VONZELL: **Terrible** on the oldie, did well on "When You Tell Me That You Love Me".
BO: Did very well on both "Stand By Me" and "How Far Is Heaven".
CARRIE: My surprise of the night; she RULED on "Trouble", showing some believeable spark and is CRAZY not to release it as a single, and did well on the current country tune.
Gotta say, based on tonight it's GOT to come down to Bo & Carrie. I'm still going to throw a few votes Vonzell & Anthony's way though. Carrie's line is locked up tighter than.... well, imagine something REALLY tight.
Still watching it as I promised Mom we would finish Sunday's NASCAR race first.
So what Backstreet Boys song was considered current? I was unaware the group had an album/single out that would be considered Top 40 in the last week.
And I knew Bo would do Stand By Me when he was the one to answer Ryan's question at the beginning. I'd love to hear him release that as a single, always been one of my favorite songs.
"Incomplete" is the all-new all-now current BBoys tune.
Its just starting here! Should I watch or do homework?!? Argh...
Anthony was ok, current song was better.
Don't like scott.
Vonzell was great. I liked the oldie song.
Bo. Great as usual.
Carrie. She finally showed some spark and smilied! She was great on Trouble by Elvis. Showed some great spunk and personality!
Okay, I saw the show (only once so far) and I'm posting without reading anyone else's comments.
From least favorite to most...
5. Anthony...His first song was supposed to be fun, but I thought it was lame. I kept thinking of Uma Thurman as Poison Ivy in the Batman movie... such a pleasant thought.... I forgot about Anthony. His second song was great. I didn't even know the Backstreet Boys were back.
4. Scott... He did really well on both songs. I liked that he exhibited some personality and sass.
3. Carrie...I sorta kinda knew that Elvis song, but after her performance, I want to get to know it and steal it for use at karaoke! Thanks Car! The second song, the ballad, was really pretty and she did it very well. She's a beautiful girl.
2. Vonzell...Her first song ended better than it started, but it was good, overall. Man, her version of "When You Tell Me That You Love Me" is the best ever, and it's been done a few times this season (mostly really short versions). The girl is just stunningly beautiful to look at, too.
1. Bo...I like his style, his song choices, his voice, his attitute, his presence, everything. I really believe he'll win!
Uh oh, you guys... our reviews are starting to be very similar! Is that because it's getting easier and easier to be objective? Or are we assimilating? Nah, not us Legion fans!
Random thoughts....
I kept imagining if Fantasia had done Vonzell's first song, I bet it would have had more flare.
What if Constantine had done Poison Ivy? Bet it would have been kewl. I still would have thought of Uma, though. I'll always think of Uma when I hear that song....
I really, REALLY don't want to fall into the trap of comparing Scott to Ruben, but I couldn't help it tonight...Ruben would have done a STELLAR job on the songs Scott picked.
Randy should be more cautious about calling vocal performances "perfect." I'm sure he'll take it back when he hears them again.
I just saw the finale for Nashville Star and the girl that won was cute and sang well and everything, but she's no Carrie Underwood.
I just read the article about Paula in People or Us or whatever (it was in the dentist's office). I really feel sorry for her because she had to live with a lot of pain for a long time. It sounds like it's all working out, now. That's cool. (Disclaimer: Back in the 90's, I really only liked "Straight Up" by her, otherwise, I respected her dance talent but didn't pay much attention to her.)
Scott just turns my stomach.
It was near-impossible to get a vote through last night; after much trying, I managed to pass 1 vote through for Vonzell, about 5 through for Bo and about 8 through for Anthony. I tried to vote for Carrie multiple times with nary a call getting through.
Here's hoping Slappey "Crappy Attitude" Savol has sung his last and can get back home to his busy schedule of phone-throwing and baby-abduction-threatening.
All I can say is:
<font size="7">It's about frackin' time!</font s>
YEAH!!!!!!!!!!! My Mom and I were all sad and stuff, figuring Anthony was gonna get ditched on his birthday, but when Slappey was cut, we screamed, hooted & hollered for joy!
And it looks like Ms. Abdul might be more saucy than sweet... I watched the "Fallen Idol" thing too. I guess Corey Clark learned HER not to dump a guy after he gets thrown off the show for hiding his arrest record!
Oh well thank bobbins for that. He's been around for far too long and I've been really worried that Vonzell was going to go before him. OK so she's not exactly blown me away yet, but she's been at least good pretty much every show and is so much better than bloody Slappy the Giant Squirrel.
Hmm, so Anthony, Vonzell, Bo and Carrie. Unless Anthony or Vonzell really step up their game (or Bo or Carrie screw up big time) I think it's fair to say the final will be the rocker and the country girl, but I do hope that Vonzell is in the final three as well. Anthony could hang on in there though and I wouldn't be hugely shocked if either of the other two go simply because there have been some completely bizarre choices so far.
If it *is* Bo and Carrie though, that's going to make the final very interesting. Two completely different musical styles, two completely different public sectors they'll be appealing too and neither of them are your traditional All American Pop Star, which is probably a good thing. I wonder if they'll both have to do the same song and if so what it'll be like. Course I may well be jumping the gun in speculating on the final since almost anything could happen in the next two weeks.
Interesting. It seems like Scott's fans have been strong enough to get him half way through the competition, but now that it's getting closer, the majority is really kicking in.
I hope Anthony goes next, but I do think it'll be the adorable Vonzell who goes next.
I also believe it'll be Bo and Carrie as the final two, and I hope Bo wins it. If Bo gets cut before then, I'll probably only watch if I'm around and have nothing else to do. If Bo stays in, I'll have the shows taped, etc.
THANK GOD, the world has returned back onto its proper axis, normalcy reigns, life is now as it once was. <exhale>
I don't care who wins anymore, just as long as it's not the creepiest person on the planet.
But I would love to see Baby V take it all, love that girl!
I can't get enough of Vonzell's solo performance of "When You Tell Me..."
Just watched her again, on watchidol.com.
I LOVE a beautiful woman that can SING!
That's why I am now and forever a resident of the Nadia Nation!
Hmm, interesting...
Anthony. Blah. His first song was pretty off. Not awful, but certainly not very good. His second one was just boring. To be honest in terms of that night's performance it should have been Anthony that left, but...
Scott. Urgh. Ok, so he didn't actually perform that badly (given that he still thinks that warbling like a sink emptying out of a plug hole makes a great singer) but the songs weren't that great and he still creeps me out hugely. All the stuff about how he was going to stay and planning what he was going to sing next week were all the more amusing knowing that he was getting the boot. Meh heh heh heh.
Vonzell. Well she certainly deserves to be in the top three, but I still feel like she needs a little something extra. Her Elvis song was good, and it was a nice reworking, but I kinda felt like it was a dress rehearsal or that she still wasn't quite comfortable with it. It wasn't bad at all, I don't think she had any duff notes or anything, but she just didn't look quite comfortable. Kinda like she'd like to do it slightly differently but hadn't quite worked out *how*, if that makes sense. Her second song was much better and she looked gorgeous. Maybe not her strongest vocal ever, but better than either of the first two boys. I could see her lasting to the final, and I hope she's there in the final three but I have a horrible feeling she might go next week. So glad she's made it this far though.
Bo. Yay Bo! OK, so this is what we're talking about. To be fair both the songs were ones that Bo could do in his sleep but they were both great. He looks so relaxed on stage. He struts his stuff and plays the audience perfectly. He never looks uncomfortable like Carrie or Vonzell and never looks stagey and rehearsed like Constantine. He's also pretty hot without even vaguely being my type. Lovely voice (even if he does sound spookily like Michael Bolton at times) and if he's not secured his place in the final then American is seriously off kilter.
And finally Country Carrie. OK, again, *that's* what we're talking about. With Bo you get the perfect performance, with Carrie when she's on you get a near perfect vocal. Ok so she is a little limited in what she does well and she can still look a bit stiff or tense on stage (and really, did anyone believe a word of what she was singing in 'Trouble'?) but when she's doing what she does well she has a clarity and a tone that I think is just stunning. 'Trouble' was a good, fun, up song and the country song afterwards was... well, maybe not the most exciting country song ever but she did perform it beautifully. I'm still not convinced she really is the next American Idol simply because she doesn't have the whole stage presence thing down yet but purely on her vocals she deserves to get to the final.
So on this week's performances I'd say it's gonna be Bo and probably Carrie but maybe Vonzell in the final. Anthony should go next week, but it could easily be Vonzell. Ach, what do i know though? I've been completely flumoxed by a lot of the eliminations so far so anything could happen.
Actually, I just put something together in my own mind.... I find that the people who have won the American Idol title so far are the ones who have seemed like they're already ready, while the ones who come in second or third seem like they still need some more development.
In season 1, all of the top 10, yes including Tamyra, were pretty green. Justin and Kelly really were the most comfortable. Honestly, I feel like if Justin won, Kelly might have easily fallen through the cracks, but who knows? Still, I believe Kelly won because she was so powerful on stage and had such great control of her instrument. Justin's voice could be pretty thin sometimes. Even though he came in second, he still released an album and it flopped. Kelly is *still* making records that are on Billboard's Top 40.
In season 2, Ruben consistently gave great vocal performances, while Clay was sometimes a touch off. Clay definitely had (has) the "it" factor, and a lot of people love him, but he's "in development" so it would seem. Ruben won, and has been successful, though it seems more so with r&b and/or gospel charts.
In season 3, it seemed like Latoya was the most competent singer, but she wasn't very charming. Frankly, I thought all the others seemed like amatures, even Fantasia. The thing that happened though, was that Fantasia got better and more interesting as the competition went on. Diana is clearly a strong singer and adorable, but she needs more time and experience to really be a star.
So now, in season 4, again, I think we've seen a lot of really green performers come through, and this time Bo stands out as the most accomplished. I guess I agree with Simon about that. I think that Vonzell has been the "most improved" from beginning til now, but Carrie has a lot of fans. I think Carrie is lovely and has a great voice, but she seems really really inexperienced onstage, on tv. She has a ton of potential and I wish her the best, but I hope Bo wins this year.
I crack my own self up, sometimes!
Very good analysis of the AI seasons, Sketch! I agree. I still want Carrie to win, mainly because I shudder to think how Bo will sound if he's forced to make an album of "Moments and Dreams Like This If You Believe" crappy AI songs.
Yes, excellent analysis, Sketchy.
Jackie, I wouldn't worry about Bo.... they're going to market him to his audience, I think. I noticed how he's really playing up his hippie appeal lately. I like it!
"Vote For The Worst" dot com has thrown their support into the Anthony Fedorov camp, so I fully expect a Vonzell exit this week, if VFTW truly have the numbers to make a difference.
I researched the site a bit, and some things about this season are SOOOO much clearer.
Remember cute li'l Janay, who sang so awfully and looked like she was going to throw up in every performance during the top 24 eliminations? VFTW supported her the entire time, and you may recall she was thisclose to making the top 12. Freaking scary.
And guess who else VFTW supported until he actually started getting popular? Our cheese whiz himself, Constantine! Could the VFTW pullout and switchover to Scott have doomed Connie? I think it might have!
I actually think this is pretty damned hilarious, but it's still irritating! I mean, GAWD! If Janay had made top 12.... *shudder*
Hey anybody watch tonight?
Where is Lash and his report!
Yipe! Lash....c'mon!
Well, I watched. I found last week to be more entertaining, but it's probably because I have something against country music that I can't help.
Carrie opened the show with "Sin Wagon," a Dixie Chicks song. She did it perfectly well, but I always wonder if Carrie has some kind of physical injury or something that keeps her from letting go, freely. She just seems tense or distracted when she performs. Luckily she's really pretty and has a great smile, which keeps her from being totally dull onstage.
Next, Bo did a Travis Tritt song that *was* DDDUUUULLLLLLLL!!!!! I mean, he did it well and he was all Bo, but the song just didn't go anywhere.
Then, Vonzell did "How Do I Live Without You." Now, that's a beautiful song and of course Vonzell looked gorgeous, but she did flub up the words and she seemed kinda off. Overall, as Randy said, she pulled it together. Well, during her critiques, she admitted that she'd had a hard day and that the pressure is amazing and she let tears out! Even Simon took it easy on her. I'm SO curious about what's up!
Anthony did "I'm Already There" which is a song I know and think is pretty good. Anthony has a way of making every song sound the same...starts off in a whisper and builds to the great big notes. I think it works most of the time, and not sometimes. This time...yeah, I liked it.
Now, the next round is the sounds of Philadelphia. Sorry, but I can't recall the name of the writing team. I'll do my best trying to describe the songs....
Carrie did "If You Don't Know Me" (by now, you will never never never know me....ooooooo....). I agree with Simon about how it seemed like the arrangement was weird. It was kinda like an Anwar performance. She started off mellow and quiet and then had a giant note or two near the end. The judges didn't care for it and neither did I.
Bo did "For the Love of Money." (Its the song used as the theme to Donald Trump's Apprenctice show.) Well, Bo redeemed himself with that! He was electric and authentic, as he always is, but more fun and funky and just cool. Major applause from the audience and each judge loved it.
Vonzell did "Don't Leave Me This Way" which was awesome. She must have gone backstage after her last song and decided to put all her drama into the next performance. It was really good and really fun and she looked great. Whew!!
Anthony did the same song as Carrie, and he did it in a very Anthony way. So, if you like Anthony's style you'd like this performance. The arrangement was better, it seemed closer to Simply Red's version. I liked it. My wife does not like Anthony, never has, has wanted him out for a LONG time.
I have no idea what will happen tomorrow night. Carrie got her worst reviews ever, but that doesn't always equal low votes. Bo did very well even though one of his songs was bland. Anthony fans will keep voting for him and Vonzell was half great half not so great.
I was shocked at how they slammed Carrie for her second song. I didn't think it was bad at all, in fact, I rather liked it. And this song writing team has tons of hits, but Carrie and AFed STILL had to sing the same song??? WTF?
I'm trying really hard not to start spouting my 'crazy conspiracy theory thoughts' about last night!
I wonder what's up with Vonzell???? I actually got a little choked up when she teared up. She's just so darn sweet, I did NOT need to see her cry!! :-(
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
Now, the next round is the sounds of Philadelphia. Sorry, but I can't recall the name of the writing team.
Gamble and Huff?
Oh I felt so bad for Vonzell, and whatever was going on it seemed that the judges were aware of it because it was Paula who brought it up. I thought the first round of songs were awful w/the possible exception of Carrie, who was terrible on her second song, it was like the song had no melody, she was hitting great notes but it just didn't seem to tbe in sync with the arrangement, REALLY weird. Bo (whom I've never been a big fan of) ROCKED the second song, he friggin' sizzled out there with sex and raunch (damn man gave me a case of the vapors! ) Vonzell was sweet and much better, but the enthusiasm seemed forced. And Anthony was great, he redeemed himself with his rendition of this song.
Hey guys, since last Thursday work has gone to heck in a handbasket so I totally missed the show last night. My Mom gave me the breakdown and her opinions, which were...
Carrie: Country: good; Philedelphia: bad.
Bo: Country: HORRIBLE; Philedelphia: excellent.
Vonzell: She didn't care for either of V's songs; Mom has always been put off by Vonzell's "little-girly-girly" act and last night's boo-hoo-fest didn't help. Direct quote from Mom: "She's a whiney-butt!"
Anthony: Mom really liked both of Anthony's songs and voted for him last night.
Hopefully work will settle down soon and I won't miss any more episodes!!
Not many more to miss Lash!
The only songs I cared for last night were Carrie's "Sin Wagon" and Bo's rendition of "Money". I agree with Randy about Bo. He needs to put that song on his first album.
Rumor has it Vonzell's dog died which is why she was such a mess.
To her credit, she didn't try to use it to get sympathy votes, she could have totally milked it, youjust know Scott would have, lol.
"How Do I Live Without You?" would probably be a really hard song to sing if you were feeling emotional about the loss of anyone, even a family pet. The title alone is enough to make someone more sensitive than they might normally be.
This is the lineup I hope for...
4. Anthony
3. Carrie
2. Vonzell
1. Bo
This is what I dare think might happen...
4. Vonzell
3. Anthony
2. Bo
1. Carrie
Anything else will be a total surprise to my lil head.
So who got their plane ticket home? I didn't get home from work until 8:15 and it was after 8:30 when I realized the TiVo didn't tape the results show tonight because Lost ran long.
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after watching the first auditions of the final four, Bo and Carrie get sent back. Vonzell and Anthony are the two. And in the end Anthony goes home. It was kinda sad, you can see that Anfed was clearly dissapointed. Carrie was on the sideline crying.
I MISSED IT AGAIN!!
I'll miss Anthony, even though I knew it would be either him or Vonzell. If Vonzell isn't out next week, I'll be FLOORED.
I saw the whole thing...it was cool that they showed Bo's previously never aired audition. He said that he wanted to be the next American Idol because he thought the show had never had an infusion of "rockstar." So far it seems like he's right. People (including me) love him!
As for Anthony, well, I've liked most of his performances and haven't liked some. I guess it was hard for me to believe that he outlasted Nadia and Constantine. Oh well, I'm happy with the final 3.
GO BO!!!
Originally posted by Outdoor Miner:
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
[b]Now, the next round is the sounds of Philadelphia. Sorry, but I can't recall the name of the writing team.
Yes, that was it! Thanks.
Well I'm very pleased that Vonzell has made it to the final three. I don't think she's going to stay next week, but to get this far she's done herself proud. Kinda funny that with all the guff about the boys being so much better than the girls this year two of the final three are girls.
Anthony is no great loss in my book. Sure he can sing but he's never really grabbed me in the way that some of the other finalists have. He's just a bit bland for my tastes.
The thing is, most of the girls weren't very strong competitors. Lindsey and Jessica were both cute and talented, but not very interesting. Mikala was cute and interesting but she bordered on annoying and couldn't seem to be sure to have strong vocals. Nadia, who I LOVE, didn't appeal to the masses. She picked songs that weren't always contest-friendly. Also, I happen to love her voice, but she can't always carry those giant power notes. So that leaves Carrie and Vonzell. Carrie was a favorite from the beginning, so it's no surprise that she's there. Vonzell is a surprise. She had some great performances along the way and she is extremely attractive. You know that matters.
On the flip side, the guys kinda fell apart, too. First of all, Mario dropped out. I'm sure he would have come very far if he'd stayed in. Nikko was just a replacement and was doomed to not do well. Anwar seemed like a contender, but he consistently did the "shaky start/finish big" routine, and it didn't serve him well. Constantine seemed like a star, but his posturing and posing and pouting was too cheesy, exposing him as not-such-a-rocker. Scott has a lot of unappealing qualities already, but his good voice served him well. The scandal about his arrest record didn't help him and his "underdog" status couldn't hold out. This leaves Anthony and Bo. Anthony's a kid with a dream. He was meant for third or fourth place. He got fourth. Honestly, it's hard for me to be objective about Bo. I'm too much of a fan. I think he deserves to win.
I do think Vonzell will go next, putting Carrie and Bo in the final. I hope Bo wins, but we'll see....
Heh, Bevis, I just read one of your reviews from way back in March. Very early on, you had a very good idea of what was happening. I think the only one you were wrong about was Vonzell. You thought she'd be an "early casualty." It's always funny to look back on these threads.
Well I think Vonzell has really grown throughout the competition and definitely deserves to be in the final 3. I also think she'd be a better adversary than Carrie for Bo. She's got looks, personality and talent. Carrie has the better voice but it starts and ends there, so I think Vonzell and Bo would be a better finale, clash of the entertainers.
In the end it's Bo's contest hands down, Vonzell would just make it more interesting, but Bo's walking away with this and probably has been for some time.
I hope so, BWB! However, Carrie does seem to have a lot of fans. I agree with you about Vonzell's growth, too. It's been a great season.
If Mario had stayed in, I have no doubt he would be alongside Bo & Carrie in the final three. I also think Nadia would have lasted longer (at least 1 to 3 weeks longer) had he not departed.
Nadia not being big on the power-noting was a plus in my book.
BTW, the track list for the Season 4 AI CD has been released... it's called SHOWSTOPPERS, featuring each of the top 12's "showstopping" performances. Poor Lindsey was stuck with "Knock on Wood", her only performance in the top 12.
Nadia is, of course, doing "You Don't Have To Say You Love Me". Anthony's doing "Every Time You Go Away" and Connie's doing "My Funny Valentine".
Available 5/17. I'll be getting it, will you?
Hmm...dunno. Will you review it for us, Lash?
Heh...I'm listening to Bo's "Great Day to Be Alive" right now. It's not only not boring, it's really charming and it has a really good message about appreciating life. Also, I watched The Apprentice tonight, and paid attention to the theme song, and of course, I was thinking that Bo did a WAY better job on it than the original! Trump should hire Bo!
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
Hmm...dunno. Will you review it for us, Lash?
Rest assured, I shall!
I hope it's better than the AI3 CD which-- despite Camillie's excellent version of "Until You Come Back To Me"-- was a bit of a dissapointment. I mean, I *love* Camille, but should she have had the best song on the album?
Fantasia did "Chain of Fools" on that, right? I quite liked her version of that song. What did Latoya and Jennifer do?
Seriously, Fantasia and Latoya stand out as my favorites from AI3.
Just went to a site that offers previews from the album. Latoya did "If You Don't Know Me By Now." Gosh, she should have given Carrie and Anthony a lesson on how to do that song.
Ulp! Already forgot the name of the song Jennifer did! I do recall that she sounded good.
I agree with you about the quality of Camille's voice, Lash. There are a LOT of songs I'd like to hear her sing. The problem is, I recall she always seemed so nervous that her voice shook too much, when she was on the show.
I think the problem with the AI3 album is that most of it sounds pretty amaturish. The original artists who did those songs are icons, so to attempt to cover them is almost silly.
Yes, I hope this "showstoppers" album is better.
Went and snagged the playlist. Here's my commentary on the choices....
1. Independence Day - Carrie Underwood
At first I thought they should have picked "Alone" but ID is more of a country song, for Carrie.
2. I Don't Want to Be - Bo Bice
I was wondering what they'd use for Bo, and I'm glad they chose this one. It pretty much sums him up!
3. Best of My Love - Vonzell Solomon
This is a good choice for her. I also liked her version of the Whitney song, "I Have Nothing."
4. House Is Not a Home - Anwar Robinson
Oh, they totally should have used "Moon River!"
5. You Don't Have to Say You Love Me - Nadia Turner
Perfect!
6. Part-Time Lover - Nikko Smith
Whatever. Don't care.
7. My Funny Valentine - Constantine Maroulis
He really did this one well.
8. Total Eclipse of the Heart - Jessica Sierra
Not my personal favorite, but I know people really liked this by her.
9. Everytime You Go Away - Anthony Fedorov
Honestly, I'd have to scroll through the list of songs he did to choose my favorite. I guess that means I don't think of him as ever really "stopping the show."
10. Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now) - Scott Soval
Nope. Don't like.
11. Knock on Wood
Poor Lindsey didn't even get her name on the list on the site where I snagged this.
12. God Bless the Child - Mikalah Gordon
I don't remember this, really. There have been so many great versions of this song. Can she compete?
13. When You Tell Me That You Love Me
I do think this song is quite nice. I actually prefer Vonzell's solo performance.
This album could actually be pretty good, overall!
re: the AI3 Jennifer song, it was "Neither One of Us" (wants to be the first to say goodbye), which was a good pick for her and is right after Camille's song as my next fave on he CD. It's hard to top Simply Red's version of "If You Don't Know Me..." but Latoya does it well.
re: S4, I think the cd is going to be pretty good and for nothing else it will be worth it (to me) for Nadia's full version of that song. She made it her own!
Just a little more than 7 hours til the show! I'm excited. It's gonna be good. There's no one annoying left! :cheeky grin:
Come on Lash! You're slackin'!
I just watched. I have to say that everyone rawked!
Seriously VONZELL, BO, & CARRIE totally went for it and all of them did a great a job.
The best for the night was BO.
Started with Elton John's Don't Let the Sun go down on me and ended with Can't Go No Staisfication and in the middle was what won him tonight and this contest. A totally acapella performance of some song I don't even know. He bought it tonight and was awesome. Singly one of the best AI performances ever!
Work is still hell, didn't get home til well after the show, but my Mom agrees, Vu. She said tonight was the "best of the best", and LOVED Bo.
Bo indeed was the best. So far, though, I've only been able to log two votes for him. Been dialing constantly since 7:59. Got through the first time and the third or fourth. Nothing since.
Sorry about work Lash. Hope everything gets better.
Lash, I hope you're listening to the mp3's from one of the websites, when you can! In fact, I find that listening later can be a better experience than during.
Now, my review...
ROUND 1
Vonzell's version of "I'll Never Love This Way Again" was sweet, but I agree with Clive Davis... it should be an emotional love song about yearning. Vonzell should have made us cry tonight with that one.
Bo's "Don't Let the Sun..." was excellent. Clay Aiken did a great version of it in season 2, and George Michael did a great duet with Elton himself on it, but Bo brought it back to a more raw rock and roll ballad. Very cool.
Carrie sang my all-time-favorite-song-ever, "Crying." I have a collection of different versions of that song, and I'm happy to add Carrie's performance to that collection. I don't think she needed the falsetto at the end, the way she did it worked. Simon said it seemed a bit "wooden" and though I think that's a tad too extreme of a description, it does give the idea of my problem with her performance. Like I said about Vonzell, Carrie should have made us all want to blubber after hearing and seeing her do that.
You all know that I'm a major Bo Bice fan, and maybe, just maybe I'll regret saying this, but I give Round 1 to Carrie, just because Crying is my personal favorite song.
ROUND 2
Vonzell sings "Chain of Fools." I liked it, and the judges and audience seemed really into it. It must have been fun, live....(wait for it....) BUT, that song is just getting tired. Really, no one can top Aretha's version and a LOT of people have tried. Last season, Fantasia did it, and I think a lot better than Vonzie. Still, V was having some fun!
Bo did the ballsy move of singing au capella. It was a song I don't know, but it was so Bo's type of thing. He sounded flawless and the audience was really impressed. I was impressed. That guy is smooth!
Carrie did "Making Love out of Nothing At All." Now that was a surprise. The next surprise was that it went so well. I think it's better coming from a pretty woman instead of...well...Air Supply. Her vocals were gigantic. I liked it.
I pick Bo for winner of round 2. I suppose it helps that he did a song that I don't know, really well. For me, it makes him own it. It was really brave to sing without accompaniment, and he pulled it off. I already like him, so now there's even more reason.
ROUND 3
Simon chose "On the Radio" for Vonzell. Again, she did well. No critiques. I don't know if I've mentioned yet how beautiful she is. Like that isn't obvious...
Bo did "Satisfaction." Simon called it fluff, which, I suppose is fairly true, but it was fun. I liked the bluesier instrumentation later on in the song, maybe that could have been done a little more throughout. Still, Bo was total Bo rockin' the house. Tonight's episode will go down in history as the "Bo Show."
Carrie did "Man, I Feel Like a Woman." Well, it's the perfect song for her because I don't think she's ever shown more personality onstage. It must be hard to sing because it starts off really low, which sounded almost "off" but she finished strong.
Round 3...Bo! I suppose that's no surprise. I won't be home tomorrow night, so I hope my family tapes the results show for me.
I think Vonzell has the best personal style of any previous AI contentsant ever. She always looks great. Great hair, great outfit and great smile.
She was smoking in the brown dress with baby blue ribbon around the waist.
Vonzell is a dream.
That being said, last night was Bo's coronation. That a capella was the type of performance that Simon will be comparing future AI contestants too, in the way he references Fantasia's Summertime.
This contest is SO over.
Not sure if this has been mentioned or if anyone's interested, but some company just re-released the CD that Constantine guy made with his grunge band. _Pray for the Soul of Betty_ or some such.
I've listened to a couple of tracks off of that CD. Ehh. Not bad but not really outstanding either.
So, is there anywhere online to hear some of the songs these finalists sing? I heard Bo Bice's voice this morning on the radio (the a capella perforance people keep mentioning) and it sounded really good! I'm curious to other songs he's done (never watched the show).
Originally posted by Cobalt Kid:
So, is there anywhere online to hear some of the songs these finalists sing? I heard Bo Bice's voice this morning on the radio (the a capella perforance people keep mentioning) and it sounded really good! I'm curious to other songs he's done (never watched the show).
Try here Coby:
http://www.AIbyrequest.com
I hadn't voted in a couple of weeks until last night. Finally managed to get 15 votes in for Bo but it took the full two hours and the last 30 seconds to get that 15th one in. When did they start using the contestant's to do the recorded message? Bo's was perfect but both girls (I gave them each a vote) weren't very clear.
Thanks Scooter! I've just checked out this site and heard a few of Bo's songs. I have to say...I really like his voice!
Any other recommendations on the others (songwise I mean). I heard Constantine's "Bohemian Rapsody" was very good and checked it out and liked it.
Carrie's version of Heart's "Alone". It should be in the Top 11 list.
Cool! Carrie's "If You Don't Know Me by Now" and Vonzell's "How do I live" are pretty good too!
It appears (to someone whose never seen the show) that the best performances are towards the later rounds--everyone learning more and more each week.
Uh oh, Cobie's gonna get hooked like the rest of us, now! Yeah!
I've been a fan of Bo ever since the very early rounds when he did "Whipping Post." I'm sure you've heard Lash and I rave about Nadia, how unique she is, and you've heard Bubble and I gush over Vonzell's beauty (and talent). The show definitely gets better near the end of the season because the really good performers (and generally favorite ones) get to do more than one song in a show.
Well, the results don't air here for another 20 minutes but I had to peek at the board to see who got the boot. You know, they really need to work out some kind of delay thing or broadcast this at the same time no matter the zone. Either that or lock down the Idol boards until the last time zone has aired the episode.
Looking forward to next week!
I saw tonight's ep... I made *DAMN* sure of it.
Well, it had to happen this way... just as Jasmine last year could not compete with Diana and Fantasia, so too fell Vonzell to the Carrie/Bo juggernaut.
All 3 did excellently on their songs tonight.
What a great season this has been, much more so than last year. Drama and talent galore.
Next week is going to be incredible.
And Cobie, check out some of Nadia's tunes... she rocks out on "There's A Power" and "Try A Little Tenderness", is a lot of fun on "My Love", puts an awesome Mary J. Blige spin on "When I Dream" and of course no one can touch her when she sings "You Don't Have To Say You Love Me".
I'm glad it's almost over. I'm already anticipating next year.
I was at work, and couldn't watch, and my wife taped Alias for my son, who's at the Star Wars movie, so until it's posted at watchidol.com, I'm missing out.
So, Vonzell is out. I figured as much. She's really a doll, so I'm sure she'll do well out there.
Okay then, Carrie and Bo. Gosh, I hope Bo wins!
Not a huge surprise really, Carrie and Bo were pretty much guaranteed their final places from about halfway through and are certainly both better singers than Vonzell, but Vonzell is potentially a great singer and already a better performer than Carrie who, no matter how good her voice is, still has a tendency to look a little uncomfortable on stage.
Should be a very interesting final though. Two very, very different performers. I wonder if they'll both have to do the same song again and if so how different they'll make it. A rock version and a country version of the same song could be very interesting.
I got the AI4 cd today!!
Let me start off and say, Overall, this cd is a VAST improvement over the AI3 cd! Titled THE SHOWSTOPPERS, I imagine it's (supposedly) the standout performance for each of the top 12...
Let's touch on each individual track (in order)...
Carrie, "INDEPENDENCE DAY": Skillfully sung, of course, though I'm afraid she suffers from "country songbird generic-itis". What is unique about her voice? What does she have that several other already established country gals have?
Bo, "I DON'T WANNA BE": Well, it's Bo so you know its good, but I think it suffers from the fact that the original song is still in regular radio rotation. My choice for Bo would have been "Whipping Post".
Vonzell, "Best of My Love": Fun... Perky... Well-Done... Much like the lovely Vonzell herself!
Anwar, "A House Is Not A Home": Oh dear. Sure, it's lovely and all, but it's so... well, it sounds more like it belongs on the AI Season 3 cd. Plus, the A-man sounds kind-of... well, gay. Fitting, I suppose. This track is in the unfortunate position to be this cd's "skip track" for me, because it's so slow and because the next song is by...
Nadia, "You Don't Have To Say You Love Me": Haven't I raved about Nadia's version of this enough? No, because I finally got to hear her do the FULL version here instead of the AI shortened version. FAB, just fab.
Nikko, "Part-Time Lover": Nikko did himself proud. Hearing this made me think he might should have lasted a couple weeks longer in the competition!
Constantine, "My Funny Valentine": This sexy jazzed-up version is a whole lotta fun! You can just FEEL him making big ol' cheesey goo-goo eyes at you while he's singing it. YUM, cheese is good.
Jessica, "Total Eclipse of the Heart": Her voice is certainly a lot older than she is. I'll always prefer this style voice (Bonnie Riatt, Lucinda Williams) over the power-noter Celine/Whitney types. Also in Jessica's favor is that she can MAKE those power-notes too, in her earthy tone.
Anthoy, "Every Time You Go Away": Very well done, though not better than the original. There's just a quality about the orginal that is hard to match or top.
Scott, "Against All Odds": This song never really connected with me until I heard a female do it (Mariah Carey). It just seems so wussified for a guy, and it just doesn't fit Scott's "wannabe-gangsta soul guy" pseudo-image. That said, he sings it very well. I'm just not really a fan.
Lindsey, "Knock On Wood": Fine and all, but I sure would have preferred her "Don't Wanna Miss A Thing". How can her performance of this be considered a "SHOWSTOPPER" when she was sent home the next night?
Mikalah, "God Bless the Child": This was the 1 track I was worried about, but her jazzy, mid-tempo version is a lot of fun and sounds very nice. Well done, Mikki!
And finally, the whole gang teams up for the studio version of "When You Tell Me That You Love Me". Now this isn't my favorite type of song at all, it just sounds like it was written by a roomful of 45-year old white dudes. Still, this cd version of it is the best I've heard it done.
All in all, thumbs up, for certain.
Thanks for the review Lash. I just bet I'd have very similar thoughts on the songs as you.
Funny, my favorite songs by Bo have been the ones that have gotten him the worst remarks from the judges. I liked "Corner of the Sky" from musicals night, and "Great Day to Be Alive" from country night. I still wish there was a chance for Bo to do "Easy to Be Hard" from Hair.
I'm totally curious about which duet they'll have Bo and Carrie do. Should be good.
I LOVED Vonzell's solo version of "When You Tell Me That You Love Me." I wish that was how it was being released. Maybe it'll be on her solo album?
Based on how fab Baby V sounds on the AI4 cd, they would have to be insane to deny her a record deal. She translates WELL to cd. So I expect to be seeing a glossily-produced Vonzell cd shortly after August (when the AI4 tour ends).
And your mention of musicals night reminds me of how much I-- and the Nadia Nation on the AI MB-- wanted Nadia to do AQUARIUS that night.
But her fantastic version of AS LONG AS HE NEEDS ME was so fabulous, her doing AQUARIUS would have denied me that.
*sigh* I know I go on and on about Nadia, but HEY! I'm in love!
I **really** would like to see Bo and Carrie do "Stop Dragging My Heart Around"!
That would rock.
I am really looking forward to tomorrow night!
re: the AI4 cd...
Many listens later, I gladly change my original review of Anwar's song. It's lovely and has grown on me quite well, and I haven't had the urge to skip it once. The tracks I have skipped are Carrie's and the Ensemble number.
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Here's the songs for tonight:
BO
In Your Heaven
Vehicle
Long, Long Road
CARRIE
In Your Heaven
Independence Day
Angels Brought Me Here
From ET's AI site.
The only songs I recognize are Vehicle and Independence Day, which both singers did really well. This is going to be quite a show! I want Bo to win, of course, but Carrie's darn good.
Has anyone heard any news about the grand finale? Any former Idols showing up, performing? What will the #12-3 from this season sing? (Okay, what will *Nadia* sing? What will Constantine sing? What will Vonzell sing?)
Well, what did everyone think? I believe that Carrie brought her A-game but she started out every song pitchy. And Bo's choices weren't what I expected. He really didn't play to his strong points.
This is going to be anyone's game and I think Ryan is right. Every vote is going to count this time.
I'm rooting for Bo. Both of 'em are winners, of course.
Well it's about time Carrie did a Mary Chapin Carpenter song. I'd love to hear her do some classic country or even some blue grass (I'd *love* to hear her do a version of 'The Grass Is Blue', although trying to outsing Dolly on that would be hard) but Independence Day is a good choice. I can think of others that I'd like to hear her do as well, but ID is a good one.
I shall now be avoiding this thread until Friday night though because I don't want to know who wins before I actually watch the final. My gut instincts tell me that it's going to be Bo but with two such different performers it could go either way. I wouldn't be surprised if it's an even closer vote than in previous years.
They both seemed WAY nervous. I expected that from Carrie, but not so much from Bo, who up until now seemed to be giving off a "devil may care" persona, all of his performances seemed a tad stilted, like he couldn't let go and be himself.
They were both a little "off" last night, I felt. After watching it a second time, I give Carrie a slight edge. All in all, I think Bo's gonna win.
I think I'll watch the LOST finale tonight in 'real time' and tape AI--I don't think I can stand to watch them stretch it out for 2 hours!
I've decided to watch Lost on Saturday (ABC has been repeating Lost and Desperate Housewives on Saturday nights again and will show both season enders this Saturday) and watch the AI final tonight. TiVo doesn't make it easy to watch live TV and record something else unless you have a VCR, which we don't.
Besides I just know that Bo is finally going to sing Sweet Home, Alabama with Lynard Skynard tonight and I have just got to see that.
I'm going to take this as a good sign for Bo. I got into the car tonight to come home and turned on the radio just as "Sweet Home Alabama" was starting. First time it had played all day. Go Bo!
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Well, guess that's another winner's album I won't be buying. But I sure as hell will buy the runner up's album. And I think the runner up will be the one with a longer career.
Yeah, gotta admit to *slight* disappointment tonight, but her "Inside Your Heaven" single is gonna be colossal-huge.
On the upside, this entire finale show was outstanding!! I was VERY PLEASED with the attention given to all 10 of the runners-up, they all deserved it. I think Babyface might be "feelin'" Lindsey! Homey was checkin' her OUT!
Mikalah was funny as heck and Nadia rocked out! YEAH baby!
Also, I felt the absences of Kelly, Reuben and Fantasia were VERY conspicuous. Where were they?!?
Bo ROCKED "Sweet Home, Alabama"! If he doesn't record that on his first album it will be a big mistake. Can't wait for AIbyRequest to have the MP3s ready.
Awsome ending to this years season. I agree with Lash..having all involved was a nice wrap.
Carrie and Rascal Flats..ROCKED
I had a feeling Carrie was going to win...but heck they both are going to have a deal.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Also, I felt the absences of Kelly, Reuben and Fantasia were VERY conspicuous. Where were they?!?
The more I think about this the more I think it was a wise decision to not include the previous winners. They would have taken away airtime from the others. Although I'll admit there was a lot of the show we could have done without (except that take on the Primetime special with Simon replacing Paula, that was classic).
Originally posted by MLLASH:
I think Babyface might be "feelin'" Lindsey! Homey was checkin' her OUT! Oh he was. No doubt!
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Also, I felt the absences of Kelly, Reuben and Fantasia were VERY conspicuous. Where were they?!?
I don't know about Reuben and Fantasia, but Kelly and Clay have both broken from American Idol -ie 19 Entertianment do not own them anymore. Both have gotten out of their AI contracts and signed wiht THE FIRM. Neither of them will say anything bad about AI but neither will talk about AI either anymore.
I happy. Both finalist rocked the whole night!
I'm totally unhappy with this result!!!!BOOO!
I wanted Bo to WIN! I wanted Carrie to be in second place and go off into the country music world.
I will admit that Carrie did a great job on Tuesday night, although I prefer Bo's version of "Inside Your Heaven." I think Carrie's big hit will be with "Angels Brought Me Here."
As for the show, I thought it was WAY too long and WAY too much filler, especially to get the result I didn't want. It only got good once the finalists started performing with the pros. Vonzell was especially good.
I know that Bo will do well, but I think the whole American Idol legacy would have been better off with him as this season's winner.
It's weird to not be a fan of the winner. I have been every season before.
bugger. vagued out during the spoiler and read on, the finals not shown here till tomorrow night. oh well.
fascinating to read that Carries big song was 'Angels Bought Me Here'. When Aus Idol first debuted this was the song chosen for the first single and that both contestants had to sing in the final. It's kinda a running joke about how prefab the Idol thing is, in this country, and i saw a comedy "Hells Angels Brought Me Here" in this years festival.
Guess that the ol Idol umberella has decided to recycle it in a different market. The writer should make a crapload from it, but it's so by the numbers.
Interesting about "Angels." Not surprising though. Now that you mention it, Kid Psychout, I do believe the Australian Idol sang that song on American Idol season 2 or 3. Now I gotta go find the mp3! He was the light skinned guy with the black afro, right?
I just heard Kelly Clarkson talking about the final two. It was on some random cable news channel, during an entertainment segment. She was asked what she thought Carrie and Bo are thinking right now, and she replied that they're probably just anxious to get this all over with so they can begin their careers. Everyone who's on AI basically gets a great jumpstart, it's up to each individual to make a career out of it. She didn't sound jaded or negative about AI. In fact, as usual, she sounded very down-to-earth. She said that all she requests while on tour is peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and water! Hah! No diva demands.
Yep! It was Guy Sebastian. He performed "Angels Brought Me Here" during season 3, when the #3 singer was eliminated (that was Jasmine).
The song sounded almost totally different by Guy. He sings a lot more soulfully, with a higher pitch. It doesn't really compare with Carrie's version. Also, I don't know if it will be released as a single for Carrie. I should/could be a great hit, though!
Stupid stupid Teletext. There was me being good and avoiding the results and we had Teletext on earlier and in great big letters it said 'Country Singer Wins American Idol'. Humph. Well that spoilt the surprise.
NUTS to that... surely there's a way they could show it the next day instead of several days later. Less chance of seeing spoilers that way.
Anyhoo, don't miss the show, Bev! It was a hoot. They did a little spoof on the special that claimed Paula was having an affair with Corey Clark that was quite good, and the Idols singing with famous musicians & singers is NOT to be missed! Non-Bo/Carrie fans are sure to be pleased with the attention given to the other 10.
Plus, I thought it was quite cool that they brought out that girl who butchered the National Anthem in the auditions, dressed her up and had her do it again-- after having some obvious coaching. And the nerdy fan who got to meet David Hasselhoff-- so cool!
...still moody about Bo not winning....
Okay, as usual, I'm listening to the mp3's from the show, and I'm TOTALLY loving the songs from the finale.... Bo's "Long, Long Road" and "Inside Your Heaven" are both totally cool songs. Really good. I quite like Carrie's version of "Inside Your Heaven" AND "Angels Brought Me Here" and I'm digging Guy Sebastian's version of it. I'm hoping one of the people from the group will do one of those "side-by-side" mp3's of both of Carrie's songs, like they did with Diana and Fantasia on "I Believe."
had to tape the finale, but finally saw it and it was great televison. Idol and Amazing Race are the only reality tv i have any time for.
Sketch: Yeh, Guy's version of the song is the better (i am not a fan, however), but i think they had an inkling he was going to win when it was written so they new his vocal style. Carrie's version of the song was very, well, 'shouty'. she didn't seem comfortable singing it.
But her duet with the band who did "God bless the broken road' was amazing. their voices really worked together.
This year was interesting as it was so obvious when there were four finalists how good Vonzel, Bo and Carrie were compared to the others. I can see why Lash thought they needed Bo to win as he is the first pure rock stylist, but this years final three all deserve careers.
As for the others... Mikhala's turn as red carpet presenter was great fun and she so suits that kind of job, but she needs a lot more control of her voice before she becomes a singer full time.
Nadine was born to perform. The only person even near her in terms of pure comfort on stage was Bo. Her voice is limited compared to any of the other girls, but man she has style.
and lastly, if i ever hear Constantine again it most likely means somebody has been stupid enough to decide to 'reimagine' the Partridge Family for cable. Sorry, Lash, but sometimes cheese just means your milk has gone off.
Just saw Bo on the Daily Show with John Stewart. He seemed to be trying a little *too* hard to be funny. Maybe he's always like that, though? I heard that he was on Regis and Kelly this morning, too. Bummer I missed it.
I taped Regis and Kelly Tuesday 'cause Carrie was on it. She was really cute during the interview, but BUSH interrupted with a press conference right when she was about to sing!!!
Grrrrrrrrr!!!
Both Bo and Carrie performed on The Early Show and I was able to grab an MP3 of each of their performances. Bo doing an unplugged version of "Drift Away" and of course Carrie had to perform "Inside Your Heaven".
I still prefer Bo.
Oh, and I realized something only a Stephen King geek might get. I hope Carrie doesn't do a version of "Baby Can You Dig Your Man". It could mean the end of the world.
I was rather delighted to hear Bo Bice's INSIDE YOUR HEAVEN on the radio the other day!
Originally posted by MLLASH:
I was rather delighted to hear Bo Bice's INSIDE YOUR HEAVEN on the radio the other day!
It debuted at number one, knocking off Carrie's version. First time in history that has happened.
Yeah I think I saw on Billboard it is the first time in history the same song has held the # 1 & # 2 slots the same week!
They're saying Carrie's version has outsold Bo's but of course it was released weeks earlier. This should be interesting to watch.
Haven't heard Carrie on the radio at all here.
I just watched part of Latoya London's video. Sorry, but I got bored and quit. She looks cute, though.
I just watched Kelly Clarkson's video for "Because of You" and found it SO sad. But at least there was a happy ending. Kelly looks great, though it's hard to get used to her totally blonde. BoY is a very sad song, but it's beautiful and she performs it so well. It's all over the radio now and I think it'll soon take over VH1 and MTV.
Looking forward to the new season of AI! Any other AI tidbits?
I burned some mp3's of John Stevens' RED album for my mother. If you can believe it, he sounds really good.
Camile Velasco's debut single is HANGIN'ON (samples heavily from "You Keep Me Hangin' On"). On first listen, it didn't really stand out, but I'll give it another couple of listens.
Of course, Carrie's candy bar commercials were all over TV this summer.
Anyne have final figures on the Bo VS. Carrie INSIDE YOUR HEAVEN sales?
Y'know, I'd always intended to buy Bo's single, but I never did. Where *does* one go to find stats on songs, anyway? I've never been successful trying to find that stuff.
Oh yeah, Carrie's quite cute in the Hershey's stuff. I just saw her picture in the candy aisle at the gas station store.
I'm not surprised that John S sounded good. I always liked him, but he did pretty poorly in competition.
I heard Camile's song, but lost interest. I like her voice, but I was too into Latoya and Fantasia to pay any attention to the others.
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
I'm not surprised that John S sounded good. I always liked him, but he did pretty poorly in competition.
That's because AI tries to force singers to be what they're not. I think it would be a much better show it they let each singer choose the songs each week that best showcase his or her voice and particular style. The public does not buy a singer because he or she can do everything from Shania Twain toTiny Tim - they buy the record becauase the singer is distinctive and knows what he or she does well. I wish AI would realize this. Quite frankly I've hated the winners every year except Fantasia, and I think AI is ruining even her.
I agree with your statement about styles, Semi. However, I've liked every winner until this last season. Well, I don't *dislike* Carrie, I just preferred Bo so much more.
Funny you mentioned Fantasia. I was just watching parts of the Soul Train Lady of Soul awards show, and Fantasia was nominated for a few awards alongside Ciara and Amerie and others I don't recall. I felt like Fantasia was the most distinctive of the people nominated. The others all seem sort of like Beyonce Wannabes to me. That may be a huge generalization, but on the surface, it's my call.
At the AI yahoogroup I still check out, someone posted a link to a video performance of someone in the Philippines named Frenchie (not the Frenchie from AI2). She sang Tamyra Gray's song, "Raindrops Will Fall." It was awesome. The girl looks like a young Philippino Aretha Franklin. She sounded great, too. (Sorry if I spelled things weird.)
Bo and Carrie are all over the place! I just watched Bo sing on the Tonight Show. His song was kinda catchy, but it didn't amaze me or anything. CMT has Carrie's video playing all the time. Mind you, I rarely stop on CMT, no offense to anyone. Bo also just won an award on VH1's Big in 2005 show.
The big news is that Simon is not leaving AI, and that they've agreed on doing 5 more seasons! Can't wait...
Jillikers!!
Will my hopes and dreams for the new season of American Idol come true?
And will Dean
FINALLY update the title of this thread?
Only time will tell.
next Tuesday... IT'S ON!!!!!!
Oh, I thought we *liked* the title!
I'm very excited about the new season beginning, but I have a couple things that have me a bit ...apprehensive. First of all, I know myself, and I have this *need* to see every episode, yet I work in the evenings, so I do miss them sometimes. I currently don't have a dvr, or TiVo or any way to record missed episodes. *sigh*
Also, confession time...even though some of the bad auditions are pretty funny, overall, I find the early episodes kinda tedious. I'd rather start watching at the top 32 and go from there. But, as I said, I'll still watch whatever I can.
I've ended up really liking at least two or three contestants every year for the last five years, so I can't imagine that not happening again....
Originally posted by Sketch Lad 1:
Oh, I thought we *liked* the title!
Nah, just the history within the thread itself. We don't wanna lose that until we have no choice (at the 2500th post, iirc).
Can't wait to read yours and everyone's comments, Dean! This is gonna be fun!
I think I'm going to have our cable company install the dvr service. If it's not too expensive.
I just re-read all 50 pages of this thread! We are really good reviewers! So many LOL moments, too! Going through this thread reminded me of how fun it is to talk about the characters even way back in the audition rounds, so I'm feeling better about that!
(BTW Lash, I don't know how to edit the title of threads. Help?)
I re-read the whole thread last season, it was great fun!
Dean, you click on the the little black "edit post" icon thingie (the one right next to the one you use to send a PM) on the very first, original post you made to the thread on page 1, and then instead of editing the post itself, you change the title.
Thanks Lash, I'd never done that before. I thought of a few clever titles for the thread, but decided to go with something that wouldn't confuse anyone...
Bump cuz it's on tonight! And because I fear moving to page 2!
Well, last night was interesting.
If only 34 people made the cut from Chicago, that means only 28 non-twins/siblings made the cut. And we can discount jumping barefoot crazy boy (what was THAT about, Randy & Paula?) so only 27 "solo" acts made the cut. That's pretty poor.
There were some interesting folks Hollywood-bound, but no one who really blew my socks off.
I think my favorite moment was when the jealous girl was all going off on that one girl who made the cut, and her response to J-girl was "I've got my little yellow paper, where's yours?"
Hoping Denver offers more meat and less gravy.
I thought both sets of twins were really good! The large girl was really good, too. Simon certainly was "crusty" at these auditions and his comment about the big girl (one name wonder, starts with M) was just mean and juvenile. Yes, I wonder what was up with Randy and Paula putting "Crazy Dave" through. Maybe they want to make an example of him, to show the others how to relax and cut loose? I dunno.
I missed about 20 minutes right in the middle of the show, so I guess I missed Jealous Girl.
Not sure if this isn't all just a misunderstanding, but at face value, I'd call it "biting the hand..."
Clarkson Won\'t Let \'Idol\' Use Songs
I just don't know. On the one hand, BREAKAWAY, which features Kelly-written songs (and massive hits) has sold close to 5 million, FAR outstripping her American Idol-heavily-produced THANKFUL, which has sold 2+ million. So she wins the arguement that a product featuring her own material has far outdone a product featuring others' material.
But it's still always going to go back to what turned her from one of a million hopeful wannabees to a huge star.
Feh! I'm staying out of it!
For those curious about sales, though (I've been doing research), Fantasia's CD has almost met combined sales of both of Reuben's CDs, while Carrie's CD (only on sale a couple of months now) has nearly met Fantasia's sales.
As far as runners-up goes, Clay's sales have outstripped all winners except for Kelly, well over 2 million sales. Bo's debut (released around Christmas) was quickly hurtling toward gold status (500,000 sales). Diana DeGarmo's sales have been disappointing compared to these two.
Highest non-top 2 seller has been Josh Gracin, nearing gold status with his debut (out for some time now, and far outselling Diana). The third-place finalist (name escapes me at the moment) after Clay & Reuben (had a radio hit with "Eighth World Wonder") hasn't done badly.
Albums by Latoya London, John Stevens and Jasmine Trias have been slow to sell.
I'll see if I can locate that info and link to it.
Not really overly impressed with any of the contestants yet but I'll give them some time. I really wish they'd get to the meat of it though. This showcase of picking who goes on to Hollywood is wearing thin.
And it looks like we have our first real scandal of the new season already.
Idol Twins Charged With Identity Theft . One of them has been in jail since January 10. Guess he didn't make it to Hollywood afterall.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Albums by Latoya London, John Stevens and Jasmine Trias have been slow to sell.
I'll see if I can locate that info and link to it.
Any numbers on William Hung's albums? I'd be curious to see how they compare.
Last night was certainly interesting for the characters - the dialogue between the "inventer" and the guy dressed like a big nutter butter made me wish they had their own reality show ...
and I love how that "guy who looks like a girl" immediately blamed them for being prejudiced, completely deluded about his singing ability (among other things).
I couldn't find any figures on his Christmas album or his recently released third album but the sales figures I found for Hung's first album totaled 145,623.
Based on Scott's supplied numbers for Hung's first CD, Hung has certainly and by far outsold Latoya, John and Jasmine-- never even mind adding in the figures from his second & third releases, which will boost him even higher... higher possibly than both Diana DeGarmo and Kim Locke ("8th World Wonder" chick I couldn't remember earlier). I'll follow up on this ASAP with that sales info when I find it again.
As for last night's DENEVER show, I think there was a better bad-to-good ratio last night, it seemed that way anyway. re: the young, stuttery cowboy Simon & Randy put through-- has that ever happened before? Where Simon and Randy put someone through on Paula's "NO" vote? If so, it certainly doesn't happen often.
Li'l Cowboy was the one I was happiest to see make it through, though I've learned not to get too attached this early-- because in the past, Hollywood has seen the dismissal of some of my early favorites ("Scooter Girl", Blue-haired chick).
And yes, it's all over Memphis about the 2 scraggily-beared twins Terrell and Darrell who made it through on episode 1... one of 'em's down at 201 Poplar as I type this (JAIL, for you non-Memphians) and the other is expected to turn himself in any nanosecond now. Apparently they both have interesting rap sheets already. I don't expect we'll be seeing them in the Hollywood episodes.
AND.... according to a link at my AI Yahoogroup, Kelly Clarkson has relented about her songs being used by AI in the wake of sharp critcism from Simon Cowell.
GAWD, I'm so glad AI's back....!!
I want to hear a direct quote from Kelly about her songs being used. My gut reaction is that she doesn't owe American Idol anything anymore. She was part of why the show catapulted to giant fame, she made them a TON of money, now she's doing her thing and she has the right to conduct her career how she wants. She has publicly been nothing but appreciative and supportive of the show. I support her singing "I Will Always Love You" to them, and move right on. Also, I find it ironic that Simon can get into a huge contract negotioation, all about *money*, get what he wants, and then make comments about Kelly like in the article. Pheh!
WAIT! Didn't they actually show someone singing one of her songs already? "Since U Been Gone"? Anyone record the show?
I missed Wed night, but my wife told me about the girly guy. Deluded. It reminded me of how Simon treated that thin black guy with the beard on the first episode. He told him to shave and dress like a woman. Is Simon a little anti-gay or feminine guys? May I point out... lessee...ALL the guys on season 1? (Well, except Justin, but he was a pretty boy.)
Scott, I agree with you that these first few episodes are boring. I wish they could edit all their audition episodes into one two hour season premiere, and then move right into the Hollywood rounds after that. I'd even like the Hwood rounds to be edited down and get right into the actual finalists who we vote on.
Hah! I was composing my post while Lash was composing his! I KNEW Kelly's song had been on the show!
Lash, I haven't been to aibyrequest yet, I gotta get over there!
Dean, you're right-- some poor lass DID butcher "Since U Been Gone" on Tuesday night's show, IIRC.
Was it Tuesday's? I thought I heard it but have already gotten rid of that one. I still have last night's on my TiVo. But do you think what all the fuss is about is during actual performances for the competition? I can't see how they could possibly tell people during the open auditions they can't perform certain songs.
kelly clarkson owes everything to american idol.
Scott, I actually don't know for sure, but I'd guess that songs can be sung in the auditions, but the producers have to pay to air those songs.
Labradorian, I don't mean to be argumentative, but maybe she did owe American Idol at first, but her career has blossomed since. Does she owe them forever? I point to my Dolly Parton/Porter Wagner analogy. Should Dolly have stayed on the Porter Wagner Show forever? Plus, it seems Kelly's songs will be used anyway. Also, we don't know for sure if Kelly herself refused to have the songs used, or if it was her management/spokespeople. I like Kelly Clarkson, so I can't help but defend her.
i didnt think you were being argumentive, just putting in my opinion, you are just giving your opinion.
I think she owes AI for life and i also like kelly clarkson.She has proved herself but only because of AI would anyone have heard her in the first place.
I'm so disappointed that the two bearded twins turned out to be scam artists and felons. They were really quite talented and charming (as all great scam artists need to be, obviously!) I think there are definitely some really talented people so far this season.
I loved the two corn field sisters and was shocked that they barely scraped through into Hollywood.
I also loved the handsome Frank Sinatra crooner. Again I was shocked that Simon had to convince the other two to let him through. Their lame excuse was that they were afraid he wouldn't be versatile. Which brings up my pet peeve about American Idol. STOP trying to find a singer who does every style passably well and concentrate on finding a singer who does his or her own style brilliantly. Let the public decide who we think is talented and excels in the style they choose. As I've said before, the stars we really like are not versatile --- they're unique. American Idol should just let them be themselves.
Lash, I too was really happy that the little cowboy got through. What an innocent! He's going to have everyone rooting for him. I just bet he pulls it off.
I did notice Paula getting wet everytime a really handsome young man came in. Wow, is she ever a predator!
Looking forward to next week.
SEMI!!! Long time, no see! Glad you're here!
I was thumbing through PEOPLE magazine at work, and there's a brief article with Paula.
She apparently has an album coming out sometime this year.
She also states that America will fall in love with A.I. contestant ACE. I recall him from the auditions, I remember thinking he was cute.
Been listening to my CD of all Nadia's performances last season.... STILL am flabbergasted at how early she went.
Will I have a Nadia for this season?
"When I dream... I dream of you
Maybe someday you will come true"
paula abdul has a new album coming out
WHYYYYYYYYYYYYYY??????????????
Didnt we suffer enough through STRAIGHT UP and RUSH RUSH.
Just goes to show you, you dont need talent to get a record deal.
On my iTunes top 25 most played songs, I've listened to "Angels Brought Me Here" by Guy Sebastian over 65 times. Next is Vonzell's solo performance of "When You Tell Me That You Love Me." Kelly and Bo each have two songs after that, then I go into other purchased songs. I suppose because AI performances are shorter than whole songs, it's easier to listen to them multiple times.
Everyone I know in RL is buzzing about the Seattle Seahawks going to the Superbowl. I'm excited about this too, but I have to admit that I was also delighted to find that Miss Carrie Underwood sang the National Anthem at the game! She sounded great.
Any chance this thread could be highlighted now that the season is starting up again? If I'm on a rant, I don't want to dissipate my energy looking for the thread.
Well, I was excited about two who passed through tonight-- the chick who sang "In the Still of the Night" (she had an edge I loved) and li'l Paris, who sang "Cowboy Take Me Away". I may have found my Nadia for this year. I mean, honestly... did anyone watching expect that lass to bust out the Dixie Chicks? She gave me chills. If she makes it to the top 12, I hope she sings it for Country night.
I liked 4 singers last night. The one guy was the country and western type guy -charming and goodlooking. The first girl was that blonde whose mother left her and whose daddy was in jail. I hated her song (sorry but I turn the radio off when I hear that screechy Kelly Clarkson song), but I liked her and think her voice might be alright with the right type of music. Next I liked the single mother who had lived in 42 foster homes. (Can you se a pattern here? I'm a sucker for the potential rags to riches story line).
Last, and so far my best for American Idol was the young girl whose grandmother was Ann Nesbit (or something like that). I don't remember what the first song was, but they asked to to "grace" them with another and she sang a Billie Holiday number (Probably better than Holiday ever sang it, too). When that girl sang, I just closed my eyes and thought "This girl doesn't need American Idol. She's probably too good for it. I'd run out and buy her record today." If she's as good as her audition suggested, she's got the contest in the bag.
Notice that I can't remember names.
I liked Paris last night. So far everyone else has been kinda "meh".
Is it just me or is AI more mean-spirited this year? I know it makes for good TV, but some of those poor kids should never have gotten that far, just to be made fun of. I guess I'm just over the whole 'bad audition' episodes. I'm ready for the REAL contest to begin.
Missed last night.
But, I'll be home tonight and will watch.
Semi, the girl you liked so much was Paris, and her first song was "Cowboy Take Me Away" by Dixie Chicks, as I mentioned above. She was awesome.
I still like the audition episodes; I like to spot potential favorites this early. I'd prefer more of the good to the bad, though, and feel that pandering to foul-mouthed trash like that Rhonetta girl last night is a bad move.
As for tonight... not really super-blown away by anyone in particular. I kinda wanted that big, blonde-haired Cher-sounding chick to pass through, but it was 1 yes to 2 nos.
I so agree with you, Lash. I'm tired of seeing the embarassing singers and the nasty comments of the judges. I want to celebrate the good singers. Rock Star INXS last summer was virtually all positive and it was a freakin' awesome show (I don't actually talk like that.
) ) America will still watch American Idol without the sordidness.
I found the following link which has videos of Paris' audition as well as several others.
Enjoy.
What WAS Simon's problem? Were all those contract negotiations going on while the auditions were taking place? He was SO somewhere else, then he walked off. Whatever. Still, it's good tv.
The thing that's fun about this part of the show is that my son gets such a big kick out of the bad performers, and I suppose a lot of people do. I guess you never know if another William Hung might show up. In fact, I think more of these auditioners are going for the Hung effect more than the actual Idol.
Thanks for that link, Semi. I've been to that site in the past, but forgot about it. Paris was adorable, but I fear Fantasia comparisons will abound. Oh well, if she does well, that'll melt away.
I liked Sway. Not super original, but good. The other young girl, whose mom is her voice coach was great, too. Seems like a lot of young ones are coming out to the auditions. It's like even more kids are learning to sing so they can try out for this show. I wonder if there are any statistics that could verify that?
Last night was a lacklustre show. They really only showed a couple of singers who got through to Hollywood and concentrated on bad performances. There's a real mean spiritedness to the show this year that I don't care for.
Did you all catch that picture of Nadia Turner that was flashed. I so wish she'd come out with an album.
Thanks to whomever highlighted this thread.
*cringe!* Thank Space it was only 1 hour last night. I couldn't have handled 2. Ryan said only *11* of the thousands from Las Vegas made it to Hollywood, and we saw only two of those 11-- the adorable little Indian girl and he grey-haired George Clooney-ish country guy. I liked both of them.
Tonight: Austin, TX. Maybe Beagz, Stargazer or Vu tried out!
PLEASE let this be the last audition episode. I have SO grown weary of them. Im ready for the Hollywood episodes!!
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
What WAS Simon's problem? Were all those contract negotiations going on while the auditions were taking place? He was SO somewhere else, then he walked off. Whatever. Still, it's good tv.
Not trying to lift teh blame on Simon being a bit of a tit, but it's worth remembering that while the audition stages of this season of AI were being filmed he was also working as a judge and mentor on the second season of X Factor here in the Uk so was actually flying to and from America a couple of times a week throughout the whole process and working on two programmes at the same time. That doesn't really forgive his attitude a lot of the time (and considering his the executive producer on both shows he could easily have made sure they weren't simulatneous) but it does maybe explain why he's even more irritable than normal. Plus the factt hat on X Factor he was having to deal with Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh...
Originally posted by MLLASH:
*cringe!* Thank Space it was only 1 hour last night. I couldn't have handled 2. Ryan said only *11* of the thousands from Las Vegas made it to Hollywood, and we saw only two of those 11-- the adorable little Indian girl and he grey-haired George Clooney-ish country guy. I liked both of them.
Tonight: Austin, TX. Maybe Beagz, Stargazer or Vu tried out!
PLEASE let this be the last audition episode. I have SO grown weary of them. Im ready for the Hollywood episodes!!
Lash, I can't agree with you more. After last night I may just quit watching until the competition starts in Hollywood. A whole hour dedicated to the worst is too much.
And I thought the guy who passed looked more like Jay Leno than Clooney.
I'll second that - what a horrible show last night. Couldn't they have at least shown us more than 2 who got through? We'll have enough horrible singing when we get to the top 12.
I thought Simon was off the wall on his comments to the gray haired guy. I'm finding that I really dislike Simon so far this year.
People I know in RL only seem interested in talking about the good singers they've shown. There's no William Hung or Keith (the Like a Virgin guy) this year, so the funniest part of the auditions isn't happening.
I've missed half the auditions anyway, so I don't feel very connected to the show this year. I also can't wait to see the actual competition.
Someone just told me about a kid who passed who had only sang to his Turkeys. Who was that?
And sorry Lash, I didn't try out in Austin. But then again, maybe so.
Vu, "turkey boy" is discussed in this earlier post I made:
Originally posted by MLLASH:
re: the young, stuttery cowboy Simon & Randy put through--
Li'l Cowboy was the one I was happiest to see make it through, though I've learned not to get too attached this early-- because in the past, Hollywood has seen the dismissal of some of my early favorites ("Scooter Girl", Blue-haired chick).
Paula passed on him, but Simon and Randy took a shine to him. He was real itty-bitty and cute, got all flustered when he couldn't remember the title of the song he was going to sing (it was "Can You Feel The Love Tonight"), and his voice cracked every time he spoke. But when he sang, it was pretty powerful. Not at all what you would expect to be coming out of that mouth.
I didn't think he would make it through, but Simon gave him a "yes" after inquiring about whether or not the kid had any money for voice lessons, and the kid said he didn't. I (and judging from the AI MB, many others) took an instant like to him.
Anyhoo, last night... Austin was pretty bad. I am honestly tired now of them letting these whack-jobs into the auditions. There are so many of them, that people who might actually otherwise make it to Hollywood are getting passed on because the judges are so freakin' annoyed and irritated. Only 12 people from Austin made the cut. Poor, poor, poor.
I was surprised to see that cute, stuck on himself guy actually had a voice. But he's shown in next Wednesday's HOLLYWOOD episode preview (at LAST!) bawling his conceited eyes out! *tee hee!*
The "fit model" was cute and I liked her personality (she was real silly!). I'll be surprised if she survives the Hollywood rounds, though.
So, only ONE more audition episode (Boston)... thank gawd. Then, next Weds, HOORAY FOR HOLLYWOOD!!!!
I missed both episodes this week, and I actually don't really care! Yikes! I just read on yahoo that Sway is questionably eligible for this season. He's been in a band that might or might not have a current contract in place... I guess he denies it on his website. Again, not sure I really care that much.
Yes, HOORAY FOR HOLLLYWOOD!!! That's when it gets good anyway.
Thanks Lash.
And the final round of the Austin Audtions didn't even happen in Austin. When they were supposed to do the final round here in Austin, we were filled up with Katrina and Rita folks.
All the people whom they said audtioned in Austin actually got a free trip to San Fransico to sing.
That must have inflated some egos there.
28 made it through from Boston, that's a bit better.
So who thought that li'l nerdly guy had one of the best male voice of all the tryouts?
And who was that he-sister doing the poor Cher impersonation, getting all uppity because Simon suggested she do drag? The truth hurts, girlfriend! Don't be getting all in Simon's face and stuff just because you suck and he's honest.
And tomorrow: HOLLYWOOD!!!
Apparently the Memphis Fraud-twins DID make it to H-Town... one of them was shown in the previews, grouchily lisping "I don't *DO* groups!!" like a big nelly scraggily-bearded drama queen. But will he do group sex--- in prison??? *malicious titter*
(oooooh, these shows bring out all my worst qualities!)
And there was li'l Turkey Cowboy! My Mom and I are rooting for him!
(See, I'm not all evil.)
Oh, yeah-- I **really** liked that girl who was also a basketball player-- she seemed to have a really good head on her shoulders, and I loved how she handled the judges' criticisms (with class). Personally, I thought she already has more stage presence than Carrie Underwood.
Looking forward to the Hollywood rounds. Looks like some major prima-donna action to come...
Clay Aiken-- Gay Achin\'? Such rumours about the absolute zenith of straightness are perposterous!
DATELINE: HOLLYWOOD!
*Uggh!*
Could the Memphis Fraud-Twins BE more assholey? They thoroughly repulsed me. They should have left with the two conceited guys (the one who danced with Paula during the audition round and the other one I've mentioned previously)
EARLY PREDICTIONS FOR TOP 24 based on tonight's episode:
Girls: Paris; that chick with the long dark hair who sang "I'll never Love This Way Again" near the end; The Pickler girl (they're showing her way too much for me to no think she isn't going to make it); the big girl-- Mandella?-- from Antioch, TN
Guys: The bald guy who wasn't conceited, the guy from Arkansas who sang "If" by Bread, Garrett the crying turkey cowboy; the hot cowboy who had the nads to sing "Hopelessly Devoted to You"; the Joe Cocker-sounding grey-haired guy
Whoo, I'm a little on information overload after watching (the tape of) the show. I have the benefit of getting to watch again, to make some sense of it all. There were some very good performances, though.
Lash, I'm finding myself agreeing with everything you say this season. The creepy fraud-twins were making me sick too. I hope they get their come-uppance next week. A little humiliation (not to mention jail time) would do wonders for their out-of-control bitchy egos. (I liked the 17 year old twins that got sent home better.)
I agree with you about most of the top 24. Paris is a definite and the dark haired girl as well (she's the one from San Francisco, right?) I think Ace will make it as well as the good-looking Frank Sinatra crooner. Kelly Pickler will also make it (but she sounds a bit too much like Carrie Underwood and I don't know if the public will go for a repeat.) The bald guy will be the token rocker, I bet. As for the little crying cowboy, he's such a cute innocent little kid. I bet he gets through just because of that. Lastly, the grey haired guy will make it - and I bet before the show is over, he undergoes a make-over.
See, I agreed with everything. Maybe I should just copy your posts and stick my name on them.
Originally posted by Semi Transparent Fellow:
See, I agreed with everything. Maybe I should just copy your posts and stick my name on them. Since we are all Alts of Lash anyways, would it make a difference?
I'll start commenting more when we get the 24.
Alts of Lash? Never!
There is only true Lash...and he is unique!
How sad that those annoying fraud-twins wasted 2 slots in the final 44 that two others could have had.
Poor Garret the turkey-wrangler is gone. He really wasn't good enough to continue, but I still liked him.
Thank GAWD we will have the top 24 tomorrow, because I could NOT handle another week of this.
Tyra with the black hair was on Making the Band 3 Season 2. She didn't make it far there, either (obviously). She always claimed that it was because she wasn't a dancer. I guess she's not that strong a singer, either.
The "Broke Note Mountain" "movie trailer" was pretty cute. However, it pretty much foreshadowed the fact that they wouldn't make it. I bet the tall guy might have been okay if he had taken it a bit more seriously.
Glad the Fraud Twins won't be in the finals. They are some annoying fellows.
Looking forward to Mandisa's showdown with Simon. I hope it doesn't end with her departure.
Just think...very soon it will be actual competitions that will be voted upon! I'm thinking about voting this year, on those nights I'm actually home to do so.
I wonder how far the fraud twins get before American Idol finds out that they're criminals. I hope it's not to the final 12.
There were a couple of new faces last night who sounded pretty good. I hope we'll get some surprises in the final 12.
AND WE HAVE TOP 24!
I'm very. very excited for next week!
20 minutes to go and Chris just got stuck in the elevator.
At least our Legionnaire name-sake made it.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST!!!
(Well, except for Ace.)
ALL of the girls are poppin' hotties!!! Almost all of the guys are some goofy lookin' dudes.
Loved this episode! When the prison bars graphic clanged down over the picture of the Felony Twins, I let out a HAR!
Bucky Covington is cute. I know he's kinda trailer-parky looking, but I have a thing for that. And the name "Bucky". Also, I think Taylor Hicks (gray-haired guy) is adorable, Chris Daughtry (bald guy) is hot, and that dude with the big ol' grin, that made it through last night after Paula said, "I'm looking past your 2 left feet" or whatever... he's hot too. Ace is this year's Constantine. I hope he starts making goofy goo-goo eyes at the camera during performances.
The chicks are pretty much ALL babes-- Brenna's REAL hot but she's annoying and I haven't really seen a standout performance from her. She's trying really hard to be Mikalah Gordon. I'll be curious to see how far she makes it.
I missed it tonight. I had to go to a work-related dinner. Did Paris make it? Did the cute Frank Sinatra crooner make it? What about the annoying fraud-twins?
Paris made it, the crooner made it.
The fraud-twins were thankfully absent from the entire episode until near the end when AI did a brief explanation of their whereabouts (with a snippet from a Memphis newscast to boot!).
Thanks. It sounds like it's going to be a great season. I like Paris, cute crooner, and gray-haired guy and probably a bunch others. Nice that the annoying bitchy fraud-twins are gone. I take it that Kelley Pickler made it as well.
Yeah, Pickler made it. You guys have mentioned her a few times, but I must have missed when she was on. Seeing her tonight, I think she's adorable, and knowing that she has a terrible family life makes this success for her even better.
I still don't have a real handle on who everyone is... that'll come in time.
My wife says that Bald Chris is cute, too, but I don't see it. Also, I should say that I was just calling the guys Beast because of their looks, not their personalities. Same for the girls. I remember there's that one girl who Simon said will be difficult to work with. Despite how lovely she looks, I just see devil horns on her and green slime spewing out her mouth. I hope she doesn't get far.
Regardless, it is the talent that will show us who gets anywhere! Can't wait for that!
I checked them out and although I don't recognize some of the 24, many of my favorites are in there. I think this might be a good year. Paris' hair looks longer now, by the way.
It will be interesting to see what the stylists do, especially with the guys. I find the sort of checklist of the top 24 to be very helpful.
BTW, I'll be on vacation next week, so if I do actually see the show, I probably won't post about it. The week after though, I'll be here!
Pretty good line-up in teh final 24 I think. I do like that fact that with the boys at least it seems to be the year of the geek. A couple of pretty boys (Ace most obviously) but generally not the kind of people that are the archetypal 'Idol' type. But then again if you look at the past winners (and not winners that have careers) it's obvious that the public don't go so much on looks, which is a good thing in my book.
A lot of the finalists though i didn't really remember that much since we didn't see so much of them. I wish they'd shown all of them singing when they got told they were through to the final 24.
Of the finalists Mandisa really stands out (and not just coz of her size). Really great voice and a great personality too. I also really like Paris, although she could be one of those ones that kind of falls to pieces. There's also the geeky boy, Patrick I think, who so doesn't look like he should be able to sing but is in fact incredible.
Oh, and I really like Will as well.
ohmiGAWD, what fun!
So, here's who impressed me the most--
THE GOOD
Ayla Brown ...The first performer to give me any sort of "wow" tonight. Great job.
Paris Bennett ...WOW. Major, this time. What showmanship. She one, two and three-upped everyone else in that department.
Melissa McGhee ...Whoa-- deep-voiced, sultry-toned--- just the way I love my chanteusix.
Lisa Tucker ...Now THIS was the performance that *EVERY*one was waiting for tonight. The wow-factor times 5. I agree with Simon-- people will look back on this performance years from now and say, "THAT was the night I first saw Lisa Tucker".
Katharine Mcphee ...Probably this season's seeming sure-thing at this early stage. Great job!
Now, for some big disappointments...
THE BAD
Kellie Pickler ....Everyone's early favorite, I thought she sounded dreadful. Doubt she'll be going anywhere soon, though, but I hope she does before I have to hear about her jailbird father issues again.
Brenna Gethers ...Lovely to look at-- like a butterfly who can somehow poison you by its touch. I hope this dreadful, unlikeable, only-semi-talented girl doesn't go far.
I WANT YOU TO WOW ME
Becky O\'Donohue ...I rather enjoyed her performance of "Because the Night", but after the judges hem-hawed about her performance, I began to think I might have only enjoyed it because I love the song. I hope she busts it out next week if she makes it through.
Mandisa ...Probably my favorite song choice of the night, and she's very likeable. Next time I want her to grab me, throw me to the floor and shower me with her likeability and performance!
START PACKING YOUR BAGS
I predict two of these 3 will be going buh-bye:
Heather Cox or
Kinnik Sky or
Stevie Scott
I took notes.
Mandisa sang Never, by Heart. It was great that she did the unexpected. She has a great voice and projection -- a class act. I think she'll be a finalist. Randy went wow, wow, wow, good, but a bit sharp. Paula said phenomenol, magnificent. Simon said not perfect but will make the finals.
Kelley Pickler sang How Far by Martina McBride. She's so pretty and so country. OK voice, but Carrie Underwood did it last year. Kelley, you're a year too late. Not sure if she'll make final 12. Randy said good, but not the best. Missed notes. Paula said she didn't carry through on the verses. Simon said she's very likeable.
Becky O'Donohue sang Because the Night. Her voice was a little weak for the song. Doesn't deserve final 12 slot. Randy loved the performance but not the voice. Paula said notes were off. Simon said better than expected, but only a 6.5.
Update: I heard her performance again on the radio this morning. It really was pretty bad when you don't have the pretty face to distract you.
Ayla Brown sang Reflection by Christina Aguilera. She has a great voice - a little bit broadway. Final 12 for her. Randy said he was pleasantly surprised. Paula was also pleasantly surprised. Simon like the emotion.
Paris Bennett - a star. Sang Midnight Train to Georgia. She's a great little performer. I was surprised that she could move. However, I didn't think it was the best song to showcase her voice and thought her performance a little too "precious." Nevetheless, she's an enormous talent and it definitely a finalist. Randy said we've got a hot one, America. Paula said she was her idol, the energizer bunny. Simon said she was great
Stevie Scott, opera trained, sang "To Where You Are" by Josh Groban. I liked her. She was kind of Sarah Brightman. I want to see what else she can do. She should at least survive this week. The judges disagreed with me. Randy was bored. Paula said it was not a popular choice. Simon said she messed it up.
Brenna Gethers - DROP A BUILDING ON HER RIGHT AWAY. So annoying. And she can't sing for shit. Absolutely tone deaf. No charm. How she got this far is beyond me. I detest this girl. The judges didn't like her much either. Did I say I hated her? Well, I can't say it enough.
Heather Cox sang "When You Tell Me That You Love Me." Pleasant girl but boring voice. Some notes were flat. She should go home, but second, so that she can kick Brenna's butt on the way out.
The judges called her boring, pitchy, not good, forgetable, horrible.
Melissa McGhee sany "When the Lights Go Down" by Faith Hill. She has a deep voice and really can sing. I would like to see her do rock. Ranbdy said she worked it out. Paula said she had a sexy, sultry voice. Simon said she sang better than most of the girls.
Lisa Tucker - 16 years old and a big star already. She was maybe the best all night. She sang "I am Changing" from Dreamgirls (I think). She's definitely a finalist - star quality. The judges said she has a gift, a star, this was the night we will remember that Lisa Tucker started (her amazing career).
Kinnick Sky - sang Get Here by Alita Adams. I really liked Kinnick. She had style and a great voice. I thought she had star quality. The judges disagreed with me. This is probably the only time I didn't understand the judges comments at all. I felt that we had heard different performances. I really hope that Kinnick makes it through and gets another chance to prove herself.
Katherine McPhee - sang "Since I Fell for You" by Streisand. Yes, the hype is true - greaat voice, great personality and beautiful girl. The judges felt that she had a natural talent, that she was the best, and that she was going all the way.
In summary, for me, the best were Mandissa, Paris, Lisa, and Katherine. They are shoo-ins for the top 6 girls. The last two spots should be between Kinnick, Ayla and Melissa. The worst were Brenna (
), Heather and Becky. Brenna must go, then Heather, but second so she can kick Brenna in the butt on the way out.
It's official. I am in love with Katherine McPhee. I am a sucker for a tall, beautiful, "dorky" chick--especially a talented one! I love that she didn't "oversing" that song.
I also loved Mandisa--so cute and fun. Go girl!
Paris was fun; but she was TOO fun for that song. She totally missed the spirit of it; still, she's quite a little performer.
Lisa Tucker leaves me cold, cold, cold. Ditto for Ayla Brown.
I could give a rat's ass about Pickler's jaibird daddy. Unfortunately, she'll probably go Top 12.
Breanna could be good, but she wasn't there last night.
Stevie totally picked the wrong song to introduce herself. Going home, I fear.
Heather was so flat and boring. Going home, I HOPE.
Melissa...hmm. Not much personality, but she wasn't bad. I hope she can stick around.
Becky...bold song choice with "Because the Night" but so did NOT nail it.
And Kinnick...hmm. Best Drag Queen Performance of 1996. Seriously, she did nothing to make it her own; it was a blatant copy of Oleta Adam's version of "Get Here" with flat and sharp notes thrown in for good measure.
I think Heather and Kinnick will be going home tonight. Stevie may also be out, but she may get some sympathy votes for being trashed so badly (see Janay from last season).
45 minutes into the guys and so far I'm amazed to find myself agreeing with Simon. WTF were Paula and Randy hearing when Sway 'sang'? That was the single worst performance I think I've ever seen on Idol. But Chris is up next and hopefully he can redeem the men who, so far, are vastly inferior to the women last night.
Wow, just... WOW.
THE GOOD
Patrick Hall ...loved that he sang a historically "girl" song (Come To My Window) and I thought he sounded nice doing it. The fact that he's an apparently smart Southern boy didn't hurt either.
Chris Daughtry ...I'm not even a Bon Jovi fan, and I still thought Chris' song (Dead Or Alive) was great. And, *whew*... what a beauty!
Kevin Covais ...there's something extremely likeable about Mr. Nerdly McNerderson... it's like it's an "I can call him that but if anyone else did, I'd beat them up" sorta thing. Did a great job on an AI standard, One Last Cry. This kid HAS a voice, a big, good one.
Gedeon McKinney ...Was a surprise. His version of Shout likely made millions across America do so-- with delight. I'm with Simon, though-- tone down the smile.... get angry or something!
Taylor Hicks ...WOAH. I've been a fan since I spotted him in line at the auditions, and it's grown with his every appearance. IMO, **THE** performance of BOTH nights this week. I don't care how geeky you think I am, his performance brought tears of joy to my eyes. This guy is immensely lovable. Far and away my favorite of both groups so far.
THE BAD
David Radford ....He's a little cutie, but that croony, cool-jerk act just isn't my cup of tea. I will say his vocal wasn't bad, it's just that it wasn't really my thing.
Bobby Bennett ...I'm going to have to borrow all of Simon's favorite phrases: "I'm not saying this to be rude, but it was an appalling, ghastly, dreadful hotel cabaret." Seriously, I think this guy was counting on personality pulling him through. Unfortunately, On opening night, I want to be WOWed by a vocal more than anything else.
Ace Young ...Y'know what annoys me? When AI frickin'
expects me to like somebody, even if they suck. Doesn't mean I'm gonna. They expected me to like Kellie Pickler --who was terrible last night-- and they expect me to like Ace Young. Guess what-- it ain't happenin'. I've seen many fags sing Father Figure in karaoke and do better than Ace did. And as for the hair and goo-goo eyes--- well, on Constantine it worked. Here it just seems kind-of.... sad, really.
I WANT YOU TO WOW ME
Bucky Covington ...Leave my taste in men out of this. Oh, fine. So I think he's cute. I also think he can do something, vocally. Wasn't super-blown away tonight, but I think the potential is there.
Elliott Yamin ....Hmm. Another guy everyone is going to say is ugly but I think is hot. Most of the time, the straight-up "Pretty boys" aren't going to do it for me, give me a little roughneck edge, please. The judges loved Elliott; I liked him and hope he blows me away next week.
NOTHING'S SADDER THAN NO OPINION
Will Makar ...Yeah, sure, he's all cute and stuff but he's only 16 so I can get arrested for thinking so. I think it's difficult to pull off a sheer total classic like I Want You Back, and... I'm not--- I'm not sure wether or not Will did. So... no opinion.
Jose "Sway" Penala ...Okay, so I can't deny that it was-- interesting-- but... was it any good? I've really got... no opinion.
What guys are going away tomorrow? My top 3 picks: David Radford... Will Makar... maybe Jose "Sway" Penala, or it might be someone I liked better, like *choke*... Bucky or Patrick.
Just trying to mentally pare down the 12 guys to 6--- this is going to be tough...
I'm 99.9% certain Chris, Taylor and Ace have a *LOCK* on the final 12, and that's half the spots right there.
Who will fill the balance of the 6? I'm pretty sure Gedeon will make it-- especially if he continues to pick songs that everyone from nurseries to nursing homes recognize and love, and continues to nail them. So that leaves only 2 slots for final 6.
Simon's opinion carries a lot of weight, and he gave Elliott a colossal compliment tonight. He's my 5th pick for final 6.
I find it it hard to beleive people aren't going to like little Kevin. So that's 6.
Meaning I might ought to prepare for Bucky and Patrick to leave...
Originally posted by knowjack:
It's official. I am in love with Katherine McPhee. I am a sucker for a tall, beautiful, "dorky" chick--especially a talented one! I love that she didn't "oversing" that song.
I could give a rat's ass about Pickler's jaibird daddy. Unfortunately, she'll probably go Top 12.
And Kinnick...hmm. Best Drag Queen Performance of 1996. Seriously, she did nothing to make it her own; it was a blatant copy of Oleta Adam's version of "Get Here" with flat and sharp notes thrown in for good measure.
I laughed at-- and totally agreed with these comments, Jackie!
I notice you and Semi seemed to like Stevie more than I did.
Taylor Hicks is so absolutely unusual that I want to see him make it up to the wire just to see if he is as genuine as he seems.
But, visually and so far sincere and just plain totally adorable is Ace Young. Hell, even his name is American Idol-esque already. And I enjoyed his rendition of Father Figure very much. I was semi giddy even before he started singing, and just went all school girly after that. He was great.
Gideon is a psycho, just wait and see....
Sway and Bobby Bennett need to escort each other out and don't look back... goodbye! *shiver*
p.s. Does anyone else think they are overusing the phrase 'bring it' as much as 'yo dog.'
NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!! You're falling into the "Ace Trap"....!
Again, I took notes.
I really liked tonight and almost didn't hate anyone.
Patrick Hall sang "Come to My Window." I like his voice; he has a nice range. The clip of him singing in Hollywood was what won me over. I really want to see more of him. And when I saw the recap at the end of the show, I realized even more how good he really is. The judges didn't like the song choice but like his voice.
David Radford is the cute 17 year old crooner. He's not going to win Ameican Idol, but he's got an infectious style. I liked his performance a lot. I don't think he's going home yet. His good looks and million dollar smile will carry him through. And he's 100 percent more talented than the last crooner they had on AI. The judges thought the song choice was wrong, but Simon thought the audience would like him.
Bucky Covington sang something by Lynyrd Skynyrd. He has a raspy rock voice. I liked him him a lot. However, I don't think he's got a great range and that will limit him in this competition. I think he's safe for this week. The judges thought he was good, growing and Simon liked him raw.
Will Makar, aka Bobby Brady or Boy Meets World. Sang "I Want You Back" by the Jackson 5. Bad, bad song choice. Cute kid, but that's about it. Mediocre voice. I thought he lost control of the melody and was off-key a lot. Paula and Randy were entertained, but Simon thought he was just average. I think Will might go home.
Sway sang Reasons by Earth, Wind and Fire. I'll admit, I'm a sucker for falsetto, so I really liked Sway. Plus, he lives not more than 5 miles from me. He was unique tonight and I think he should stay at least another week. Paula and Randy liked him; Simon hated him.
Chris Daughtry sang "Wanted Dead or Alive" He's a rocker with a great voice. I think he's a definite top 6. All the judges liked him and mentioned that he has a really great recording voice.
Kevin Covais sang "One Last Cry" and it should be his last. He sounded like a kid singing at his bar mitzvah. His voice is weak, reedy and nasal. How he got this far is beyond me. Randy and Paula were kind and liked him. Simon thought he would appeal to the over-90 crowd that was hard of hearing. I think Kevin should go this week.
Gedeon McKinney sang "Shout". What a great performer. Nice voice, tone and range. I want to see more of him. I think he'll make top 6.
Elliot Yamin - sang "If You really Love Me." I hated the song. When are these guys going to learn that Stevie Wonder songs aren't that great. (To tell the truth, the only Stevie Wonder song I've ever liked was "Place in the Sun", which almost nobody knows). It was too bad, because I like Elliot and I think he's got a nice voice. But what do I know? The judges all thought Elliot was brilliant. Simon even said he was the best vocalist ever in 5 seasons. I don't see it from that song, but I guess we'll get another opportunity to see what Elliot can do.
Bobby Bennett sang Copacabana. He has a throaty, not too musical voice with a limited range. He seemed to me to be more like an emcee who introduces the stars and kills time on stage while they're getting ready. He's not star material. Maybe he's like an Ed Sullivan - great host. I think Bobby should go home this week. Randy and Paula though he was entertaining but Simon said it was a nightmare.
Ace Young sang "Father Figure." This guy has star charisma. As he sang "I will be your father figure", he raised his arms and damned if I didn't think of Jesus at that very moment. I'm not fond of his type of light voice, but he really can sing. The judges loved him, Paula pee'd her pants and even Ryan got wet. There's no doubt about it - physically he's beautiful and that's going to carry him far.
Taylor Hicks sang the Elton John song "Levon". I really like Taylor and think with his unique voice that he's got a real shot at the top spot. The judges loved him and even Simon said he was wrong when he said in the audition that Taylor didn't have what it takes. Count me in as a Taylor fan.
In summary, I thing Kevin then Bobby should go home this week. Will is my third choice. The top 6, in my opinion so far are, Taylor, Ace, Gedeon, Chris, and I hope Patrick and then either Elliot or David (if he gets better).
Thank you LASH for putting in to words how I feel about Ace! He's pretty, and seems nice, but in NO way does he have the vocal chops for AI to be telling me HE'S the winner this year.
My favorite of the night was Eliott . I really liked his voice. I like Chris a lot too...he's kinda sexy. Gideon pleasantly surprised me, but I'm still on the fence. There's something endearing about Bucky , but his vocal wasn't that great last night.
Wilma Carr and Patrick were just too boring to even be memorable. Poor Kevin just seems lost up there, although I do have to commend AI for putting him through, and being nice to him last night! I don't want him to win or anything, but I don't think I could take seeing the poor guy get totally slammed by Simon!
I like Taylor to a point, but I think his shtick is gonna get old fast.
Sigh, and then for David , Sway and Bobby That David is a cute kid but that was all kinds of wrong. I don't know what the judges saw in Sway, maybe it was better in the studio? Yeesh, it was painful. And poor Bobby--it was like watching Jackie Gleason doing a number on The Carol Burnett Show or something. Seems like a funny guy and all, but not for this show.
Originally posted by knowjack:
And poor Bobby--it was like watching Jackie Gleason doing a number on The Carol Burnett Show or something. Seems like a funny guy and all, but not for this show.
That is exactly the impression I had of his performance last night. It was like he was trying to channel Gleason.
Unfotunately, Vote for the Worst.com is pulling for Bobby Bennett (as well as Brenna for the girls). If Bobby
doesn't go home tonight, I'll be convinced of VftW.com's power.
Jacks-- Chris:
"kinda" sexy? Oh dear. I might need to get you in for a retinal exam, stat.
He's so frickin' hot I bet his bald head could melt a steel hat.
You're the first one I've found who agreed with me about Ace. Today at work everyone was all Ace, Ace, Ace, Ace, Chris, Ace, Ace, Ace, Ace. I had to fight the urge to pull a Lester Spiffany on them. BAH!
I dunno.... Taylor seems pretty genuine to me and not at all schticky. I'll be watching him closely.
Seems like you and Semi agree with me that we want Bucky to "WOW" us.... maybe he will get the chance.
I've got high hopes for Elliott.
"Wilma Carr".... *tee hee* If you're saying what I think you are, I think you're right. Time and tabloids will tell!
I'm going out ot dinner tonight so I will miss the results show. (In fact -- what a good idea to go out to dinner and miss every results show. ) Anyway, I'll check back here when I get home to see what happened. I hope Brenna exits gracefully held up by Bobby and Kevin with Heather or Becky kicking her butt as all four exit stage left.
There's no way I can leave tonight-- I've got THREE shows on at 7pm-- AI, Survivor and Dancing w/ the Stars. This could get complicated....
Hmm. Better tape Survivor, and the first hour of Dancing w/... will just have to be watched during the (VERY frequent) AI commercials.
So, I shant complain about the fact that 2 of those who left probably left too early, because I really don't think they had a chance to hit final 12 anyway.
Suffice it to say that Bobby and Sevie's exits were no surprise to me, and Patrick and Becky's exits were coming prior to top 12 anyway, so it might as well be now.
Yeah, none of them had a chance of Top 12 so they might as well have gone. I think I predicted Patrick and Bobby and Stevie, but I was surprised by Becky going THIS soon. I thought she'd have another week at least. I definitely think the 6 girls on the top tier who were safe tonight will be in the Top 12, unless one of the "bottom" girls can overtake Ayla. Paris, Kat, Mandisa,Lisa and unfortunately, Pickler, will be for sure in the final 12.
I would have liked Stevie and Patrick to have at least one more chance. I think they had the voices to turn it around. Bobby and Becky were good choices to go. The really sad thing is that we have to see Brenna again - it's not so much her grating personality, that I could get over if she had talent. But, alas, she has no talent, so her personality just adds insult to injury.
Just stopped by AIByrequest and downloaded Katharine, Melissa and Taylor's performances (I had to hear Taylor's twice-- once wasn't enough).
Am now properly hyped for tonight!
Round 2, the top 10 girls!
THE GOOD
LISA went 3rd, and did another excellent job. Sooner or later she will have to sing something a little bit more "hip" to please the judges, but I love her sweet style and song choices.
MELISSA performed 4th, and knocked Reba out of the ballpark. *LOVE* her voice.
AYLA was the 8th performer, and was the first to really make me sit up and pay attention to the vocal because it was just that darn good. I love that she's a tomboy.
Closing out the show was MANDISA. Well, I wanted her to wow me and she did. *LOVE* her eclectic song choices and tonight she brought my house down! She's just likeable!
SOME SURPRISES (GOOD)
KINNIK performed 2nd and made a very wise choice, switching song genres like that (she went country and perfromed the rowdy, fun "Here For The Party"). She let it be known that none of the "non-favored" girls in this competition were about to lie over and play whipping girl.
HEATHER was 5th up, and I thought she was several steps up from last week. Got slammed by the judges, though.
SOME SURPRISES (BAD)
Oh dear. KATHARINE, one of my favorites from last week, might very well be in trouble this week. Very lacklustre show opener and not a hint of her cute personality slipped through. This isn't good on a week when other girls are making their presences known.
PARIS, another favorite from last week, was just plain dull this week. Bad song choice, I felt. "Wind Beneath My Wings" is just SO played out.
NO SURPRISE AT ALL
Our 6th songstress BRENNA wowed me once again-- in a bad way-- with her mediocre vocals and air of superiority.
Next to last was KELLIE. Now, I honestly *tried* to like li'l Pickles tonight. I decided to listen to her performance from last week again before the show and found it better than I remembered. Her hoarse-husky voice was heading into territory that I usually like. So I REALLY DID TRY to enjoy her performance of "Let's Give 'Em Something else else To Talk About" tonight, but I just... can't. I prefer Melissa, and Kellie is her primary competition. Unfortunately, Pickles will probably win the whole stupid thing.
That was one of the best American Idol espisodes I've seen in any year. They really are so much better this year. The judges were harsh, but let's just ignore them.
Mandissa - I'm officially in love with her. She's just so great. I'm looking forward to her each and every week. Great voice, great stage presence. I think she's going to be one of the last few standing.
Lisa - I love her too. She's Disney's perfect mousketeer. She's Annette Funicello, Sandra Dee, and just about anyone perky who's ever belted out a song on a California beach. This girl is so marketable.
Ayla - big pleasant surprise. I love her too. This is the girl that's going to surprise everyone by just getting better and better every week. Plus she's the dark haired middle class version of Pickler adorable.
Kinnick - I continue to adore her. The judges have been really harsh with her and I don't know why. Just give her another chance, please.
Katherine - I missed her performance and only saw the snippet at the end. But what I saw confirmed that she has probably the most "beautiful" voice in the competition. I gather the judges didn't like her, but who cares.
Paris - she can really sing but why did she pick that crappy wind beneath my wings song. It's horrible and cliche. Just a ghastly choice. The girl needs to start channeling some Dinah Washington. I know it's in her.
Kellie - she's just so cute. I really hope she gets an entertainment career out of this. She really is a sweetheart and I think she did a good job tonight.
Melissa was kind of forgettable for me tonight. She's not my favorite, but she's not bad by any means. A matter of taste I guess.
Heather - end of the road I'm afraid. Heather is out of her league. She might have made it in one of the past seasons (remember the Bulgarian pop star?) but she's really out-classed this year.
And that brings me to BRENNA. Surprisingly, I thought she handled the judges' harsh criticism with dignity and pride. I don't think she was that bad tonight with her Donna Sommer number, but I think that's as good as we'll ever get from Brenna. Nevertheless, I felt sorry for her tonight.
That's it. This is shaping up to be a stellar year for the ladies.
I wasn't thrilled with my girl Katherine's song choice last night. I'm hoping she will find the right song next week. She's still my fave though.
Surprisingly, I liked Ayla a lot! Simon was dead on with his assessment of her.
Mandisa is just a goddess. Love her!
Paris and Lisa both bug me, but for different reasons. Paris lost me with the "I have favor" remark and Lisa can sing, but it's so mechanical to me. But that's what a lot of people said about Carrie last year, and I liked her...
I want to like Kinnik, but until last night I couldn't put my finger on why I *don't*. She just has such an air of DESPERATION--like she realizes she's the oldest woman there and she thinks it's her last chance. That's fine if she feels that way, but she needs to hide it better.
I love Melissa's smoky voice, but she better find the RIGHT song to "connect" or she's gonna be gone--if she isn't already.
Ah, Pickler. She was fun last night and cute. But her voice is nowhere near strong enough to be American Idol.
I can't even be bothered by Heather...she's gotta be going home this week!
Short and sweet. Last night, Mandissa and Ayla were outstanding. The rest were mostly unforgettable. And Brenna has to go, now!
Tonight the only two worth mention where Bucky and Chris. Chris blew everyone else out of the water. I couldn't have agreed with Simon more. And Sway needs to follow Brenna out the door. Although he can let it hit him in the ass for all I care.
Whew! Tonight was H-O-T!
Can't even break it up into categories, it was so good, so I'll just go in order...
TAYLOR opened with "Easy". The hypocritical judges didn't give him the praise he deserved, even after he made the song belong to him beyond the shadow of a doubt. No one else has as much fun on that stage as Taylor, and it shows. I absolutely adore him.
ELLIOTT was absolutely effortless, he was so good tonight.
ACE's "duuuu-uuuuh" expression still annoys me, but the song he sang was just so sweet I actually enjoyed it.
I'll be stunned if GEDEON doesn't hit top 12, but he doesn't "speak" like any teenager I've ever met and I find it vaguely off-putting.
My Mom and I listened to KEVIN's performance from last week without the distraction of us looking at him with overprotectiveness, and found we didn't like it. I'll wager we'll feel the same when we listen to tonight's performance, even though we loved it as we watched it. So I kind-of understand where Simon was coming from with his comments tonight.
JOSE I just can't get into. Twice in a row now. Time to go, maybe?
WILL sang "Lady". As a sucker for Kenny Rogers, I liked it, but he needs some lessons on showmanship.
BUCKY gained praise for his rendition of "The Thunder Rolls". This was the performance he probably should have done last week to intro himself.
As I watched DAVID tonight, I decided that going to jail might very well be worth it. What a cutie, I love that weird face he gets when he smiles. Wasn't wowed by the performance, though.
CHRIS closed out the show and brought the house down. Sang the hell out of Fuel's "Hemmorhage" (that's one of those words I'm never sure how to spell); he was super-frickin' HOT.
I voted for Taylor (when I could get through), Chris (ditto), Elliott (got through semi-easily) and Bucky (no problem whatsoever; a bad sign?).
I couldn't vote last night because the phone got all tied up. *GLARES IRRITABLY* I'll be all P.O.-ed if Melissa goes, I'll blame myself.
Today at work, everyone was all about Ayla and Mandisa; no one gave a flip about any of the other girls.
Another great night. (Lash, I'm not reading your post until after I finish my post. I want to see how close we were.)
I'm going to make a prediction, early as it may be. American Idol will be Chris Daughtry. And I think that the runner up will be Mandissa. That's my conviction
I thought there were three standouts tonight. One, I think everyone will agree with. The second, I think 80 per cent will agree with. The third, I think I may be a bit lonely in my opinion.
First, Chris Daughtry. Amazing natural unpretentious but polished talent. Randy was right on when he said Chris' performance could be on the radio right now. To get a sense of how much I like Chris -- I'm not a big rock fan, but he was just so good. I'd buy a recording of him singing "I'm a little teapot." The guy is an American original. Big star, charismatic in a quiet way. I can't say enough good things about him.
My second favorite was Bucky Covington. I absolutely loved his performance of that Garth Brooks tune. And again, to put it into context, I don't like country music or Garth Brooks. But Bucky has a great warm and appealing voice. I could listen to him all night.
Third, and many may disagree, but I loved Gedeon. You should know that I'm a huge Sam Cooke fan and I thought Gedeon did him total justice. Gedeon is also someone whose record I would buy. He has a beautiful tone to his voice and I don't know what else I can say. But those are my top 3 guys.
The rest, quickly... Taylor chose the wrong song. He might have been better off doing a little Sam Cooke, like Gedeon. Ace was okay, but forgetable. Kevin did a good job on Heard it Through the Grapevine. He actually surprised me. Sway chose a very difficult song, but did it well. Elliot was really good. I think I'd put him in fourth tonight. David was disappointing. Will has a nice voice, but Lady is just a really boring song.
Who is going home? I think Sway and maybe David or Kevin.
I'm really enjoying this year so far, by the way.
OK, didn't get around to posting about last weeks shows and we don't get this weeks until tomorrow night (all in one go. Three hours of AI is a little too much to handle really). Anyways, lets just do general comments based on last week and the discussions I've had with my friend Paulette at work.
The girls: Mandissa rocks. Nuff said. Awful outfit last week though and we know she can dress better than that from the audition rounds.
Paris is cute and was great lasy week but could be a one trick pony. Of all the young girls I do think she might be the one that is great but shows a lack of experience. I could be proved wrong though.
Lisa we love. There's just something so... easy about the way she performs. Nary any effort at all and a lovely stage present. A bit sweet and slightly bland personality-wise but her singing voice is gorgeous.
Katherine really, really surprised us last week. She started so stiff and nervous that I was sure she was going to be a duff one but when she hit the chorus she just came to life and was fantastic.
Ayla again was a bit of a surprise. She was good in the auditions but sort of passed me by. Loved her performance last week though and she is utterly gorgeous. Those five are our picks for dead certs in the final six, but we've been proved so very wrong in the past that we wouldn't place bets on it.
Kinnick I liked, kind of. She's got a lovely voice but there's just something slightly missing. She *did* look like a drag queen last week but she was good. We've put her as out sixth finalist, but I wouldn't be hugely surprised if she doesn't make it.
Melissa... I don't even remember which isn't a good sign.
Heather I so want to like but she leaves me cold. She's not bad as such, but she's not really there for me.
Pickler. Eh. Pretty, but boring.
Brenna sucks. Her cockiness could have been endearing but it just comes across as arrogance now and she really isn't the best singer. Her balls should have made for a great performance but it was just flat last week. Unfortunately I can see her getting through to the final.
And as for the two that left, Becky was OK and probably deserved another chance but Stevie was awful and was the only one apart from Brenna who I thought gave a really bad performance last week. She was also just... dull.
And the boys: Chris! Yay! We love Chris. Overall the boys were much weaker than the girls and he was the only one who I thought really stormed it last week. Fantastic voice, great performance, comes across as a genuinely nice guy and also very, very cute. not my type normally but there is something incrdibly shaggable about him. He could easily become the second male American Idol.
Taylor is fun. Maybe not the best singer in there, but he's a great performer, which is just as important. he could stand or fall on the basis of his song choices but I think he's probably safe into the final six.
And those were the only two I really liked. Admittedly I was only half listening to the boys because I was already burnt out from watching all the girls in one go, but still...
Gedeon creeps me out big time. No idea why, but there's soemthing very disturbign about him. OK singing voice but nothing that wows me.
Elliot again has a good voice but is completely forgettable to my mind.
Ace. Eh. Pretty boy, nice voice but nothing special. The only reason he's popular so far is because he is the most conventionally attractive, but that just makes him even more boring to me.
Bucky I'm not keen on. Bad teeth, bad hair and I could barely understand a word of what he said last week. He could get better and will almost certainyl make it through to the final six but I'm not keen on him.
Sway last week was *appaling*. Just embaressing and painful and ghastly. *But* in the auditions he's shown he has a good voice and there's soemthing I klind of like about him. Unless he really knocks it out of the ball park thoguh he shoudl be gone.
Kevin I like simply because he is so not the usual suspect. But I also think he's a novelty that will wear off quickly. His voice is quickly going from beign good to being slightly irritating.
David last week was as bad as Sway but for a different reason. He's got a good voice but last week the whole performance just made me cringe. He's like a fizzy drink really. Too sweet, too manufactured and leaving you feeling slightly queezy afterwards. Don't like him at all.
Will I really liked in the auditions but last week was pretty damn ghastly. He looked lost and the song was just bad. I was disappointed with him because I wanted to like him but on the basis of last week he's not going to make it through.
And the two that left. Bobby sucked. Don't try to sing Manilow unless you have a really great voice and don't try to sing Copocabana especially unless you can really perform. Bobby failed on both points. Patrick though I was surprised at leaving. His performance wasn't up to the promise of his audition rounds but he should have had another chance ebcause he could have been great. Ah well, to late to worry about it now.
So overall the girls are stronger. there are five that we'd definately want to see a lot more of and a couple of others that could be great. Of the boys though only Taylor and Chris stood out, but on first viewing Chris is the best one they've got. Predictions for the final three? Tough call this year because it could go any which way, but I'd *like* to see Chris, Mandissa and... Katherine probably. Or maybe Ayla.
Tonight I had no reservations whatsoever about any of the exits.... (well, *maybe* Heather should have outlasted Kinnik, but neither are top-12 worthy, and *maybe* David is a better performer than Will, but again I don't really think either are top-12 worthy).
ANYHOO. Next week: Top 12.
If Mandisa, Ayla, Taylor and Chris aren't all there I might not be either.
THE top 4, I'll guesstimate.
Side-note 1: After I no longer had to worry about her taking a spot from Melissa in the top 12, I found myself actually enjoying Brenna's honesty and sassiness. Go figure.
Side-note 2: Usually I think the big group songs are ultra-cheesy. Not to say they aren't this year, but the diffrence is I'm *enjoying* them this time.
Hey everybody! I'm back from vacation. I missed last week's shows and this week's girl show, but my son taped the guys' for me.
I agree that Chris stole the show. So at ease on stage, great passion and intensity and his voice just works. "Hemmorage" was a great song for this stage of the competition. It sounded fairly familiar to me, but I can't say I know it or the band that originally did it.
Elliott was excellent. Again, I didn't know the song, but it kinda sounded familiar. His voice is just naturally bright and his control of it was great. He is very charming and likeable. His looks don't matter to me, but I have to admit I have a hard time looking at his teeth. Sorry if that's mean or shallow.
I thought Gedeon was great. That song's just made for a show like this and he did it well.
I like Taylor. The song was good, not great. I hope they don't change his hair as he moves on. I mean, I don't like the style, but it is what makes him him.
I could not get into Ace's performance. The song he chose was really difficult and I'm not sure he nailed it. Yes, he's the good looking one, but that didn't seem to save his performance.
I just can't get into Bucky. I'll keep an open mind, but right now, I could go to the kitchen while he's on.
I don't buy all this business about Kevin being the next sex symbol. I can't imagine what the stylists are going to do with him and his voice is good, but I was bored during his performance of "Heard it through the Grapevine." The girls want to pinch his cheeks? I don't get it.
Will and David are the same person as far as I know.
I had high hopes for Sway, but I suppose a polite way to describe his performance is "derivative."
I wasn't sad to see either Heather or Brenna go. I was however sad to see Sway and David go. I do think Sway can sing. I also think David can in his limited genre. I think Kevin needs to go soon. It's kind of disgusting the way the producers are making fun of him. I also think Will's time is limited. And....I know I'm not going to get much agreement on this one, but I think Taylor's welcome is wearing thin.
On the positive side, I was really surprised last night. I never cared for Carrie Underwood last year, but I have to admit, I really enjoyed her song last night. Her voice was way, way, way better than I ever remembered. Maybe she was the right choice after all (that is, if Nadia couldn't win).
Just watched the end of the girls ep and only saw Paris, Ayla, Kellie and Mandisa (and the snippets at teh end of course).
Ayla was *incredible*. I see completely what Simon meant though.
Mandisa wasn't as good as last week, but I'm not sure it was a geart song either. She surely can sing, but it wasn't her best performance. She's not going anywhere soon though.
Paris... disappointing compared to last week, but not awful. Just a bit flat.
Kellie though... ugh. Bad. Just very, very bad. Flat and then sharp and then all over the place. Don't like her at all.
That said though Heather and Brenna, in the thirty second clips we saw, were pretty bloody awful so it's probably a very good thing they both went. Pickler needs to go next week along with... either Kinnink or Melissa, although they're both pretty good as well.
Back later after the boys have been on (Taylor just performed. Chris doesn't like him but I do).
OK, so the boys were pretty sucky again this week weren't they?
First off though, the good.
Chris is hot, he's a nice chappy and my gods he can sing. The best by an absolute mile. Love him so much.
Taylor. Maybe not the best singer and like I said up there Chris doesn't like him but I do. He's endearing without being cloying. That being said he could possibly get annoying quickly. For the moment though i like him.
Elliot. Right, let's be fair, the boy can sing. He's not quite as good as Chris but he's good. *But* for some reason he is awfully forgettable. There's nothing there that gives him the hook. I have no idead why really, and it's a shame because he is very good but he's just ever so slightly blah.
Then there was the 'eh'.
Kevin. It was 'eh'. Just 'eh'. Not really bad, not really good. Just 'eh'. And 'eh' isn't even vaguely close enough to the standard you should be on this show.
And then there's the bad...
Ace. Urgh. OK, I hate Daniel Bedingfield. Like, really, really, really hate him. Nearly as much as I hate James f*cking Blunt and his creepy stalky whiny vomit-worthy winge-pop tripe. See, I really, really, *really* hate Daniel personality-bypass Bedingfield. Detest him even.
I'd have rather have listened to Daniel Bedingfield do that song than Ace. He sucked. It was just painful and awful and OK the boy is pretty but my gods that doesn't *actually* make him any good. It really doesn't. He was no better than Brenna was and she got tore down. He was shit. Utter, crap.
OK, I'm getting slightly carried away now, but really, he wasn't very good now was he? On to the others then...
Bucky. Hmmm. Hgkeaugr ,asbdfg segrk dkubv sukfgskfb ksgfk bskueg b ksgfk. Actually that makes more sense than he does. Is it just the fact that I'm not used to that kind of accent that means he is almost completely inteligable, or do you American guys have the same problem? I can understand most American accents same as I'm sure you guys can understand most UK accents, but really, he sounds like he's talking gibberish to me. Oh, and the performance was pretty sucky too. Not as bad as Ace but it was really quite sucky.
Sway. Yuk. He deserved to go based on the last two weeks. I wanted him to be better, because of his audition rounds, I really did. He wasn't though.
Gedeon scares me. He's just... I dunno, he looks like he should be lurking in the shadows in Arkham Asylum or something. Oh, and he's a bit crap at singing too. He was doing some wierd wobbling whizzing up and down the scales thing that just... well, it went from being just wierd and slightly irritating and into crap. The only good thing I can say about him is that he's qute forgettable so at least he isn't as bad as some of the others.
Will. Wow. Someone singing has never made me want to hurl so much in my life. It's like... say you could take some of the most plastic, artificial white bread ever and then smear it with syrup, sprinkle it with sugar and then plaster it all over the Partridge Family and Donny Osmond. And then get it to sing. That's kind of Will is. Singing white bread. With teeth. Oh, and that hair as well. See, geeks who are aware they're geeks and don't care can be very cute (like Taylor sort of is). Geeks who are just geeks and are geeks without having any concept they are *and look like they should be Mormons* are not sexy. His singing voice isn't awful, it's not good but it's not awful, but the performance was just cringeworthy and embaressing and urgh...
David. You know where up there I just ranted about how Will made me want to hurl more than anyone else ever has before? Well that waas until David started singing. I mean, come on, as if last week was an embaressment enough. He appeared to have stolen a suit from someone about twice the size of him and has more teeth than a shark. Hell, two sharks. And there's the really odd wobbly 'I might be about to fall over having a fit or I might just being trying to dance despite having no concept of what cool might be' dance thing he does. I just don't get him. He can hold a not but really he is... well, he's not even karaoke because people would be so embaressed by his cheese sandwich made with a slice of sheese between two extra large slices of cheese and garnished with cheese that he would be banned from doing it. He really wasn't very good. Thank gods we won't have to put up with him any more.
What? I wasn't being *that* harsh. Well, OK, maybe I was, but really these guys are meant to be the absolute cream of the crop. Simon said in an interview here while they were filming the AI auditions and X-Factor proper that they were getting the best singers they had ever had on AI and no-one in the UK came close, but if these are the best eight boys they could find then he was clearly talking out his arse. Apart from Chris and possibly Elliot and maybe Taylor (but maybe not if he does get irritating) they are all way belowe the standard they should be and I very, very hard pressed to come up with even four that I'd want to see make it through to the contest proper.
Of course next week they may all prove ot be incredible. But I doubt it.
Semi, I so agee re: Carrie Underwood last night; she was spectacular and probably was the right choice after all.
Gallaghers, Bevis! You could be the new Simon Cowell!
So who got ousted this week? I totally spaced it was on last night and watched Survivor.
David, Sway, Brenna and Heather
I *hate* that I instantly become addicted to this show! I am actually nervous for Katherine McPhee tonight! Like it's going to matter to my life one way or another....I need an intevention, folks.
I can't intervene until AI goes off.
I think I might actually vote tonight for Katherine (even though I think she's safe for the top 12) and Melissa (who I don't think IS safe).
I've already voted for Melissa some; will have to do some more. I thought she did well on "What About Love". Simon's dissing of her was SO wrong.
Katharine: I *love* her... but she so did NOT deserve all the mad props the judges gave her tonight.
Wasn't into Ayla tonight either.
And is Simon on drugs, comparing Pickles to Carrie Underwood like that? WTF...!!?!?
Mandisa was great; Lisa's a class act; I've grown to really dislike Paris but I enjoyed her performance.
If Katherine doesn't go all the way, I may get pissed off and stop watching (like last year when they booted Nadia). She's got the most beautiful voice of the girls (and the most beautiful face). But then again, I like so many of the girls - Mandissa is magnificent; Paris could be exceptional if she starts doing some of the great jazz songs from Ella and Dinah (if not she'll just be annoying); Lisa is great, but I wonder if her youth will start to be annoying (see, I'm already anticipating being annoyed a lot). Ayla might be the big surprise.
Overall, I think the singers are better this year than last. I'm looking forward to tonight - it's still an hour and a half to go before it's on out here. And isn't it pathetic that I have nothing better to do with my time, but sit here posting in anticipation of American Idol?
My rankings from best to worst:
1. Mandisa rocked the house tonight. I dare say Chaka Khan herself would have trouble belting "I'm Every Woman" that well these days.
2. Katherine does seem to do "that thing she does" effortlessly. I wasn't blown away tonight, but still, she was better than everyone but Mandisa.
3. Aww, Kellie Pickler! Okay, I give up, I like her. I agree with Simon--she's not the best singer, but how can you not like her! That "I'm a Mink!" line had me in stiches. That said--it's a SINGING competition--she could do very well in another aspect of the show biz. She actually sounded pretty good--she should do an Elvis song next.
4. Melissa--I thought she was a lot better than the judges said. I voted for her, but I think she's done.
5. Ayla--well, she looked like a gladiator stalking the stage, and it was kind of a boring song, but I think she gets props for trying to do a current song.
6. Ugh, Lisa..I guess. She sang it aight...I'm just sick of her broadway baby song choices. C'mon, you love Hendrix--let's hear some rock!
7. Paris. Just awful. What in the world happened to the girl who captivated me in the audition rounds?? I want *that* girl back. THIS one can go.
8. Kinnik. I actually had to fast forward. No one should do Alicia Keys on AI. Sorry, Kinnik, good night, and good luck. She seems like a nice woman, but she's out of her league.
Wow, this is hard. I guess I should start with who's not going home. Definitely,
Mandissa - She blew me away and she may very well be the next American Idol. I'll bet the producers of the Dream Girls movie could have cast her over Jennifer Hudson in the lead role.
Kellie Pickler - she's hot and sexy and the best actress of the bunch. No way this girl is the little country bumpkin she pretends to be. She's competed in beauty contests - Miss North Carolina (remind me to post some pictures of it that I found) is the one I know of. Don't get me wrong, I like this girl, but I don't believe the schtick.
Katherine - besides being the most beautiful girl here, she's got the most musical voice. She needs help in choosing the right material to showcase her talent, though. She's a performer and regardless of the outcome of this competition, she will have a successful career in music.
Lisa - AI's perfect little Hilary Duff. She's so perfect that I don't know why Disney hasn't signed her already. I see teen movies in her future.
The rest
Melissa - I want her to stay after tonight's performance. She's a rock chick and she does it well. I really liked her attitude tonight and loved her performance. I don't know if any of you caught INXS Rockstar last summer (it was an incredible show) but I see Melissa fitting in better there than in American Idol.
Ayla - I'm on the fence about her. If she makes it through, she really has to do something great next week.
Kinnick - ok, I'm in a minority here, but I like her. I've liked everything she's done. I have this suspicion that her looks are what people are objecting too. She's a little harsh looking, but she's a real sweetheart. I really want her to make the top six.
Paris - arguably the most talented of the bunch. Why do I have her at the bottom? Because she's refused to do what she's good at. She's refused to showcase that incredible jazz voice she exhibited in her audition. Paris is not cool. She's a weird little kid. BUT, if she were to take advantage of her weirdness and her incredible quirky talent ('cause jazz is quirky) she'd have this contest wrapped around her baby finger. Unfortunately, she's not done this. I think she might go this week. (And why did she wear jeans under that dress. She was doing a latin nightclub number. The dress fit, but the jeans just showed insecurity.)
So, who will go. I really don't want any of them to go, because I want to see what else they can do. But, I thinking it will be Ayla and Kinnick or maybe Melissa instead of one of them. Although, I wouldn't be sad to Paris go. (She'll have a career one day, no doubt. Maybe she has to grow some first.)
I've listened to mp3's of most if not all of the previous performances that I missed, and I got to see tonight's show...
There's no denying a performance like Mandisa's. She has superstar written all over her.
Kelly Pickler was next most interesting. She sings very well and is totally adorable in the candid moments.
Katherine was really good. I see her as the leading lady in so many roles, probably more Broadway or Disney roles. Can't you just see her as Belle in Beauty and the Beast?
Lisa sang her song really well and I have to disagree with the judges about her song choices. She sings songs that sound good coming out of her. There's nothing wrong with that.
Ayla's performance was kind of disjointed. It wasn't smooth and perfect. I mean, if you only have two minutes to show what you're made of, it's not a time to experiment. I love that song, but it didn't wow me. The girl is cute, though.
Melissa just seemed like any other girl lead singer of a band on the road, to me. Nothing wrong with her, but she doesn't have the "it" factor.
Kinnick is smokin' hot, but I'm afraid her skills don't match up with her ambitions.
Paris did not impress me at all. I realize that she's very talented, but her song choices should be showcases and they're not. Kelly and Fantasia *always* sang songs that showed what they were made of, on this show.
Mandisa totally rocked!
I loved Melissa, her voice reminds me of Jessica Sierra from last season. I think she deserves a slot in the Top 12 at least.
Katharine had a great voice and brought the stage to life.
I think Kellie was a lot of fun, and Lisa was good but a bit boring.
Paris and Ayla were both okay, but I didn't really like either THAT much.
And poor Kinnik just messed up towards the end.
I really didn't like any of them. None of them really captured my interest. Mandisa was the only one that I perked up a little bit, but other wise everything was pretty blah.
I watched the guys last week and none of them were really that good.
I'm looking forward to tonight's show. I can't wait to see what Elliott and Chris sing. I hope Gedeon maintains.
I never do this, but my early prediction for top 4...
4. Pickler
3. Elliott
2. Mandisa
1. Chris
We'll see!
I'm amazed by those of you who don't like the guys. I think they're all massively talented-- and tonight's show was excellent, excellent, excellent! And this is coming from someone who has generally always preferred female singers!
GEDEON was amazing;
CHRIS could start his own band tomorrow and go triple platinum;
KEVIN is going to appeal to younger & older fans;
BUCKY was hot hot hot;
WILL was havin' a lot of fun;
TAYLOR is what singers aspire to be;
ELLIOTT I want to marry;
and ACE has won me over!
*Whew!* It's going to be VERY tough losing 2 of these guys tomorrow night!
Ace and Chris have their legions of chick fans to vote for them, and Taylor seems to be a lock, so I'm going to concentrate voting on Bucky and Elliott tonight because I'd be very upset to lose either of them!
Though my instincts tell me that Kevin and Will will go tomorrow (and I am NOT saying they deserve to), I can't help but fear for Bucky and Elliott because they don't have that whole typical "prettyboy" thing going on (though *I* think they're PLENTY pretty! YUM!)
Tomorrow night is going to be a nailbiter.
Lash, your review has me drooling (metaphorically) with anticipation. I can hardly wait to see the show tonight. Just a little over an hour to go.
Semi, I can honestly say (for me and my family) there wasn't a single performance less than very, very good, and most were excellent-to-amazing.
(Although Simon disagrees with me-- he was less than taken with Chris, Kevin, Bucky, Will, Elliott AND Ace tonight; his favorites were Gedeon and Taylor)
And to give the other jusges equal time:
Randy liked all but Will, while Paula agreed with me that ALL the guys were on FIRE tonight!
Huh...was this on tonight? Oh yeah, I did see it. I guess I must have been in a less charitable mood, but I thought *NONE* of them were that great tonight, not even my faves, Eliott and Chris. Song choice boys!! It's all about song choice!
Two Buckys--made my head wanna explode. Twin bro was cuter tho.
Kevin---glee club solo--and not a GOOD glee club.
Taylor--yep, still creepy. The big rabbit suit didn't help.
Wow! I agree with Lash. This was a wonderful night of performances.
The best--- Elliot. Finally a song that showed his range and his perfect pitch (I don't that for a fact, 'cause I don't have perfect pitch, but allow me literary license.
) Absolutely wonderful. Elliot has won me over.
Next, Bucky impressed me the most. I kept thinking Bob Seeger. I'd love Bucky to do some of the great Bob Seeger and the Silver Bullet Band tunes. I quickly went to my iTunes collection and selected the following for Bucky: Against the Wind; You'll Accompany Me; Old Time Rock and Roll; Against the Wind; Fire Lake; and especially, Night Moves. I think Bucky could win this thing with the right selection of songs.
Next, Chris Daughtry. If I may be shallow (and no-one has ever stopped me from being shallow), he was so hot with hair. I think this is Chris' contest to lose. Of the guys, he's the best. He's probably going to slug it out with Mandissa at the end. I liked (but didn't love) his song choice tonight. But I think he's incredible.
Gedeon- I love this guy. He's got the old motown and Philly sound down perfect. I remember buying "When a Man Loves a Woman" as a kid on '45. This was one of the very best slow dance songs when I was in high school. And Gedeon did it so well.
The rest:
Taylor - his electroshocktherapy dancin' is distracting. I'm starting to see him as a mall act. He can sing, but he needs to restrain himself a bit.
Kevin - He was like a little old man singing to the other retirees at the Shady Oaks Rest Home. He's not an American Idol. Time to retire him.
Will- Maybe good enough for senior prom. That's about it.
Ace - Why do a Michael (chidl molester) Jackson song. It just sends the wrong message. Quite frankly, this creeped me out. I like Ace, but I don't think this is the year for a boy band member to win AI. He's got to start doing more substantial songs to stay in the competition.
Who should go - Kevin and Will without a doubt. Any other result would be a travesty.
I'm not reading anyone else's reviews before I give mine..
8. Have to agree with Randy and Simon about Will. Just average. Not very interesting. A classic song but done blandly.
7. Bucky. I've really tried to keep an open mind about him, but I just can't get into his style. Mabye if he did something totally amazing I could be converted, but so far...nah!
6. Kevin. He sounded perfectly fine, but I just feel like there are other spots that should/could be filled by others. He kind of makes me wish they were doing the mixed groupings again instead of the top six guys and top six girls thing.
5. Ace. It's always kinda sketchy doing that falsetto thing. I don't think he totally nails it. It should be more impressive.
4. Taylor. Superfun. This is the guy you see performing in a bar who you hope gets discovered and makes it to the big time.
3. Elliott. I want him to be my #2, but I have to admit that this song choice wasn't the best ever. I agree with Simon that something more soulful would have been better from him.
2. Gedeon. I LOVE that song. All he had to do, for me, was not totally blow it, and he did not. He did a fine job with it. He does have an odd personality, though, but whatever.
1. It was a weird time for Chris to go mellow, but he's not getting booted. He still provided a great show.
I'm glad we're through the semi finals now. I have to say that I disliked showing the other contestants in the background. Don't know why.
Paula looked pretty hot tonight! Her hair maybe?
Anyone surprised about the results? I thought there was a surprise in both the guys and gals but there was also the, "Yeah, I knew it" in both too. I think this is a pretty strong top 12. But any finish that doesn't pit Chris against Mandissa is bull.
Agreed, Scott; 2 "I knew that"s and 2 "WHOA!"s.
Bah! None of them have gotten my attenion!
I predicted 3 of the 4 to be going home. Was wrong about one girl! Sad to see her go too, when a couple of the girls who DID make Top 12 are kinda icky, in my opinion.
I was surprised Gedeon was voted off. Everything else seemed like the right choices.
Dean,
I was going to say the same thing... so "Ditto".
Gedeon & Ayla were both a surprise to me.
I was sure Gedeon was a lock despite his off-putting way of speaking. The boy can freakin' SING. When all that was left onstage was him, Bucky and Elliott, I thought, "Oh NO! Either Bucky or Elliott is going home." And when it was just Gedeon and Bucky left, I was positive Bucky wasa a goner.
And despite Ayla's poor performance Tuesday night, I figured her great performances the past 2 weeks would see her through.
But at the same time I was happy Melissa & Bucky made the cut.
What were the fraud-twins doing there? I could easily have done without seeing them again.
I didn't watch last night because I had very important things to do - I had to clean the house and go grocery shopping because STU is in town and coming for dinner tonight! I figured that beats American Idol results show any day.
As for the results, I'm not surprised. I liked both Kinnick and Ayla. I rather have seen Paris go, but I guess there was no way. I'm disappointed that Gedeon is gone because I really looked forward to his performances. Will should have gone, so that was no surprise. Kevin has no business being there though. I hope he leaves next week.
Now that we have Top 12-age, it's time for some ridiculously early predictions!
Kevin, Chris, Melissa, Kellie, Katharine, Bucky, Ace, Taylor, Paris, Lisa, Mandisa and Elliott.
First 2 to go will be Melissa and Bucky, maybe not in that order.
Coming in 10th will be a surprise exit, and I think it will be Paris.
9th, 8th and 7th will see the exits of (in random order) Kevin, Lisa and Elliott.
Despite AI's shameless pimping of them, Ace and Kellie will NOT make final 4 and will exit in 6th and 5th place.
Leaving our final 4 as: Katharine, Mandisa, Chris and Taylor.
I'd be more tickled if Ace, Paris and Kellie went first, though!
OK, just quick reviews today because it's bed time but while things are still fresh in my head...
Paris: Not great. She's really disappointed me the last two weeks. She's a soul/jazz singer and a damn good one, but she's been doing songs that just don't suit her voice. If she can't recognise the difference then she needs to go and get some experience and then maybe come back when she has a clue.
Lisa: We love Lisa. She looked stunning and she has a hell of a voice. Between here and Paris a few weeks ago I'd have gone for Paris. That's no longer the case. I still quite think she's really shown what she can do, she's never absolutely blown me away, but she is very, very good.
Melissa: Meh. She's not bad but she is incredibly forgetable. I really don't understand why she didn't go instead of Ayla, but I can't see her lasting long unless she really pulls something out of the bag. She's not bad, she's just not great either.
Kinnick: Aww, I like Kinnick. I feel sorry for her. But, to be fair, she wasn't the greatest on any night and tonight wasn't as bad as Randy and Simon said but it wasn't great either.
Katherine: After Mandissa Katherine is easily my favourite out of the girls. She didn't wow me last week (bad song choice mainly I think) and while she isn't quite as good a singer as Mandissa she is just... I dunno, there's somethign incredibly natural about her on stage. She can belt a song but she looks like she's having fun, she plays to the audience, uses the camera brilliantly, moves easily and is just gorgeous without being your bog-standard pretty girl. She's got a figure (kinda Nigella Lawson-ish actually) and just comes across as fun and nice. Plus she really can sing. Oh, and even though she did have a few duff notes tonight she carried them off in such a way that you didn't notice. That's the sign of a good singer. Every singer singing live while make mistakes in their tuning but if it doesn't interrupt the flow of the song then you know they're good. Katherine has that. I do worry that one slip and she could be out the door but if there's any justice she'll be around for a good while yet.
Ayla: Oops. Wrong song. A brave choice but the wrong one. She wasn't as good as the last two weeks but she really wasn't bad a didn't deserve to go. A crying shame. She didn't look great tonight though, and I know what Simon meant about her youth not always showing on stage. I bet if nothing else though Ryan is happy she's gone so he doesn't have to stand next to her any more and show quite how short he is.
Manidssa: Goddess. Just stunning. Everyone else, boys and girls, are going to have to try and make it up to her standard. She was just amazing tonight. Best she's been, and she's not been bad yet. Also she looked good tonight as well which I couldn't say of the last two weeks. Last two weeks she looked like she'd trusted a stylist to dress her and they got it horribly wrong and this week she just dressed herself and looked good. She could do with losing a bit of weight just so she's slightly more in proportion (she is *very* hippy)but if she dresses well it doesn't matter. I'm just wary that even though image shouldn't matter and it clearly didn't for Ruben (or Clay in a different way) it's much easier to say image won't affect a boy's chances than to say it won't affect a girl's. Maybe I'm just being cynical but I suspect it's at least true to a degree. All that being said she rocked the house and could be decalred the winner right now in my eyes.
Pickler: I don't get her. I really don't. She's not bad and was better this week than the last two and she's cute and funny and sweet but... I just don't get her. Her personality is carrying her through and it can only take her so far. She's just... Jessica Simpson #2. An OK singer, cute, bubbly, funny in a bimbo-ish kind of way but will probably get wearing after a while. It's very hard to dislike her, but... she can go imho and I won't miss her.
Then the boys...
Gedeon: Ick. Hated it tonight. Also hated his gurning when he sings. I was surprised he went but not dissapointed. Didn't like him at all.
Chris: Hmmm. I was disappointed, but I think it was largely that the song was a bit boring. He is definately the best of the boys and the challenge to Mandissa at the moment, but after her powerhouse performance he needed to pull something staggering out of the bag and he didn't. He sang it well and he's still very shaggable but it just didn't live up to expectations. He was still better than most of the others but should have doen better. I'm still expecting great things from him though.
Taylor: He he he. Aww, Taylor. He was by far the best of the boys this week. Maybe not the strongest singer, but he has that same thing Katherine has. He clearly loves the music and performing and OK so he really, really, *really* can't dance but he doesn't give a toss and so it doesn't matter and that kind of makes it work. I can imagine going to a concert to see him and having an absolute blast. There are much better singers than him int he contest but he's easily one fot he best performers, and that's potentially just as important as their singing voice.
Bucky: Snoooooooooooooooore. Dull song, dull performance. Plus his teeth scare me. Oh, and why were they making such a big deal about his brother looking like him? THEY'RE IDENTICAL TWINS RYAN, YOU F*CKING MORON. IT'S NOT A SHOCK THAT THEY LOOK ALIKE. Sheesh. Ryan really does talk rubbish sometimes. And yet... I would still prefer to listen to Ryan talk bollocks than Bucky singing in his tedious incomprehensible way. Fbhfoe bugogh hiahwdiooooooooooooooooo.
Kevin: You know I shut my eyes and just listened to Kevin tonight and while he wasn't bad Simon got it exactly right when he said he's a bit juvenile. Not as badly as Simon said but I think give the boy a couple of years to get the experience and grow into his adult voice and he might well be pretty darn good. He'll still be a geek and look about four years old (even if he isn't still taller than Ryan. he he, Ryan is so short) but he might have a very good voice. At the moment though he's still too green. He's not bad but he is going to be lost when he comes up against the likes of Lisa, Mandissa and Katherine.
Will: You know what, I didn't actually hate Will this week. Randy and Simon were very harsh, and the song was very safe but it's the kind of song that Will does pretty well. it was cheesy, it wasn't anything terribly exciting but I thought he sang it OK and even though he is still mini-Donny Osmond he was OK. It was still right hat he went this week though.
Elliot: Didn't like it this week one teeny little bit. Hate the song and I really don't like falsetto singing. I also agreed completely with Simon (again) that he seemed a bit disconnected from the song this week. He is very good as a singer, a challenge to Chris even, but I still find him just a bit forgettable. I don't really know why because he doesn't deserve to be but I tend to forget he's there. Maybe with fewer boys around he'll stand out more but I do worry that he's going to get lost in the crowd.
Ace: Umm.... Please excuse me while I go and hurl. Why do people like Ace? I mean, really, why? Sure he's pretty and has ever so cute rosy-wosy cheeks and such a cheeky little grin and his cute curly hair and aww couldn't you eat him all up with his ginourmous shoulders that look like 80s shoulder pads without having muscly arms to go with them and his slightly bandy legged stance that looks like he's either been out riding his horse on the range all day or has been at home being ridden himself (or both), but... well. Listen to him. Really listen to him. He was off key in every single part of the song that wasn't falsetto tonight, and the stuff that was falsetto wasn't very good either. He's like Constantine only even more dull and not very good and pretending to be a rocker but in fact being bland pop in a bad boy wrapper that is ever so slightly too clean and polished. He's not the worst singer left (we'll look pointedly at Bucky for that one) but I want him to go more than any of others just because it is so offensive that people get so caught up in his looks that they don't notice the fact that he isn't actually all that talented. whereas Mandissa, who could drop Ace with one single note, could well end up with the exact opposite problem. If you want a rocker with a great voice and sex appeal who actually *is* a rocker with a great voice then sod Ace and run to Chris.
I don't like Ace very much.
Oh, and i pretty much agree exactly with the order that Lash is predicting. I wouldn't be surprised if we're proved totally wrong but I think that's the most likely order. Those four are certainly my own personal favourites though as well.
heh, quick reviews my arse. That took me best part of half an hour to type...
I hope Bucky stays around just to read Bevis' comments about him! Seriously, I did a LOL! Please Bevis, make a Bucky-speak dictionary!
I think I could only do a dictionary if I could work out a word of what he's saying. It just sounds like... noises. Garbled noises at that. And mostly out fo tune one too.
I found that post where sales for AI alumini were posted, and here is the info by copy & paste:
Sales Totals through 11/27/05 (unless otherwise indicated)
Kelly Clarkson - Breakaway - 4,746,001 (thru 2/19/06)
Clay Aiken - Measure of a Man - 2,729,966
Kelly Clarkson - Thankful - 2,429,700 (thru 1/22/06)
Carrie Underwood - Some Hearts - 2,096,645 (thru 2/19/06)
Ruben Studdard - Soulful - 1,776,999
Fantasia - Free Yourself - 1,639,904
Clay Aiken - Merry Christmas With Love - 1,183,700 (thru 12/25/05)
Josh Gracin - Josh Gracin - 584,888
Bo Bice - The Real Thing - 524,657 (thru 2/19/06)
Ruben Studdard - I Need an Angel - 428,204
Kimberly Locke - One Love - 207,841
William Hung - Inspiration - 189,563 (thru 7/3/05)
Diana Degarmo - Blue Skies - 161,574
Justin Guarini - Justin Guarini - 142,130
Tamyra Gray - Dreamer - 121,822
Latoya London - Appreciate - 35,051
William Hung - Hung for the Holidays – 29,189 (thru 7/3/05)
R J Helton - Real Life - 21,227
John Stevens - Red - 16,708
George Huff - Christmas EP - 16,278
Jasmine Trias - Jasmine Trias - 12,025
George Huff - Miracles - 8,264
Jim Verraros - Rollercoster - 2,680
Corey Clark - Corey Clark - 2,142
(important to note that Bo's CD has only been out since right before Christmas '05, and Carrie's CD out about a monthi-ish earlier than that, and their sales have topped/matched CDs from others who have been out for years in some cases).
Originally posted by Semi Transparent Fellow:
I didn't watch last night because I had very important things to do - I had to clean the house and go grocery shopping because STU is in town and coming for dinner tonight! I figured that beats American Idol results show any day.
And what a dinner it was!
Semi is a very talented cook -- everything was absolutely delicious. And the host, of course, was gracious and charming.
Re: American Idol... I realized there was a contestant named "Ayla" only after they voted her off. Maybe there'll be a "Tinya" in the next installment...
THE TOP 12~~
In what is sure to be Semi's
least favorite episode (Stevie Wonder night) there were some standouts and some duds, and some "just okays"...
Ace did "Do I Do". And he didn't do it anywhere near as well as Mario Vasquez last year, whose gyrations and hot voice had me wondering whether or not he does do what I do. Parts of Ace's performance really sounded bad. This guy is a second-rate Constantine.
The judges picked on Kellie tonight, but this was the most I've enjoyed her so far. I honestly liked her song (and her) tonight.
Elliott was good; I'm still waiting for him to pop the question.
Mandisa was pretty good, didn't knock my socks off like I hoped. But her "pretty good" is still worlds above most people's "fantastic".
Bucky was actually the first performance to wow me-- the perfect song choice for him, and he did it well.
I enjoyed Melissa's performance and wouldn't have even known she botched the lyrics if she and Randy hadn't made such a spectacle of it afterwards. Most telling is that Simon said it was her best performance yet.
Lisa looked totally hot, and her performace was good but I thought her singing was only so-so-to-pretty-good.
Kevin. It's official. He NEEDS to be the first to exit top 12. That was BAD. REAL bad.
Katharine sang "Until You Come Back To Me", which is one of my favorite songs of all-time; she sang it PERFECTLY.
Taylor:
Flawless. And the audience loves him too.
Paris was good, but I have grown to dislike her so much that I'm afraid it clouds my judgement.
Chris. He's excellent, but I'm *really* going to be worried about him on, say, Disco or Barry Manilow night. He's really pigeonholing himself more than any of the other Top 12.
We don't get the show till Friday (both the performances and the results all in one big go), but what's the deal this week? Are we just losing one contestant or are we losing one boy and one girl? I can't remember how they worked it last year but i think here in the UK the last time we had Pop Idol that's how it worked (three weeks of losing two boys and two girls then amalgamating teh lot of them and a couple of weeks of losing one boya nd one girl and then just losing one performer until we got to the final two).
Bevis, once they get to the final 12, whoever the public votes off, goes, one at a time.
My review, from least favorite to favorite....
I thought it was unforgiveable for Melissa to mess up that song. I mean, I know she was nervous, but that shows how she's not good enough for this. I love the song, "Lately" so to have it all wonky doesn't sit well with me. Also, she makes weird faces and rolls her eyes into the back of her head sometimes. Eww.
Kevin. Haven't we had enough?
Ace just never gets into a high gear. That can't last.
Lisa did look fantastic. Her hair's so LONG! She was good, not great.
Bucky was better than Ace, IMO. But similarly, I wonder if he can really amp it up.
Elliott didn't do anything wrong, he just wasn't as good as the others. Sometimes he *did* look like a deer in the headlights, though.
Kellie was a lot better than the judges said. In fact, I think if they listen later, they'll have to admit that the song was sweet, and that she made it her own.
Taylor really is very entertaining.
Paris was channelling that older jazz woman again, which was great.
Mandisa was very consistent with her other great performances. Singing Stevie Wonder didn't seem to intimidate her.
Katherine was lovely and natural and sang well. She does NOT sound like Kelly Clarkson, though. Maybe she reminds Simon of Kelly in other ways, but it's not the sound of her voice.
Chris did the Chris thing and it worked. I agree with Lash that he might have some trouble with some of the inevitable themes coming up, but I believe he will find his way.
I am a little worried about a couple of them when it comes to 'themes' that don't really sit too well with them. Chris is great at the rock side of things and Paris does the whole jazz/blues thing better than any of the others (with maybe the exception of Mandissa) but they're going to have to be really careful to find songs that fit their style and suit them at the same time as fitting the theme. Carrie managed it last year by doing almost everything at least a bit country but I worry that Chris (no matter how great he is) might actually fall down at that point. I just can't imagine him doing a disco song all that well. He could prove me wrong, but... On the other hand you have people like Mandissa, Lisa, Taylor and probably Katherine who don't really seem to have a set style (apart from a personal performance style) who may prove that their versatility is more important than Chris' singing talent. We shall see though.
On America Online, they have a poll of who should win American Idol. The current results:
1. Katherine
2. Kellie
3. Chris
4. Taylor
5. Mandisa
6. Eliott
7. Bucky
8. Ace
9. Lisa
10. Kevin
11. Melissa
12. Paris
Other than moving Chris and Mandisa up to #2 and #3, I agree pretty much with this ranking.
Pickler wasn't SO bad last night, but I wish she'd let her performance speak for itself. She totally lost me with all the forced corn-pone "humor".
I bet Ace has a Chris voodoo doll. Early on, Ace seemed to be the CHOSEN ONE, but he's given one subpar performance after another, and isn't quite as popular as they hoped he'd be. I know AI would like to have a boy win, and I think Chris is their only hope. Taylor won't make it all the way--there are too many people (like me) who find him creepy.
I think the judges were just energized by Mandisa's "loud is the new good" performance, because she had all kinds of horrific spots in her song. And I *LIKE* Mandisa--a lot in fact--but that wasn't nearly as good as the judges said.
I had high hopes for Eliott; he should have had the easiest time with a Stevie song, but it was kinda boring, and he needed to build some momentum after that tepid rendition of "Heaven" last week. Still, I love the little guy. I hope he's top 4.
I just can't stand Paris. Someone on another board dubbed her "Rudy Punchable" which is appropriate. See also Lisa Tucker, who can't get off my TV fast enough.
I want to like Melissa, but forgetting the words that badly in the Top 12 is inexcusable.
I liked Bucky's singing pretty well, but I had a hard time focusing on anything but his bouncin' and behavin' hair. WTF??
As far as Kevin goes, to quote Morrissey, "That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore".
Lastly, Katherine is becoming my favorite AI contestant ever, other than maybe Kelly C. I know there's people who don't like her personality, but there's just nothing about this girl that I don't like.
My review of last night is going to be really short - I hated it and just about everybody sucked - except maybe Chris and Bucky. I don't fault the singers so much - I blame American Idol for forcing them to do Stevie Wonder songs. More and more I can't Stevie Wonder's music. I just always sounds off key to me.
Seems my least favorite was booted!
Seems the other two in the bottom three were surprises!
OK, it's on now.
Ace was just appaling. He also didn't notice that Simon had dissed him until the audience reacted. So not only can he not sing but he either is a bit thick or just grins inanely at everything in hte hope that people will think he's ever so lovely and cute and vote for him. Ick.
Kellie. Ermmm..... that was good? She was completely off key the entire time. Not drastically but off enough for it to be grating. I just dn't get her. She's cute and slightly amusing because she is a complete bubble-head but she's not a star and she can't sing. Blegh.
Elliot. Not good either. His weakest performance yet. Not a great song, but then I don't know why they keep having Stevie Wonder night since some of his songs are very good but the rest just sound the same and have never really impressed me that much. Elliot just sounds like a white boy doing a Stevie Wonder impression really. Plus he has absolutely no rhythm with his dancing. Not impressed.
Mandissa. I liked her hair. Dammit, i don't want to criticise her because she is *the* talent this series but... it's not so good. I hate the song anyway but she's off in a lot of places and she's just shouting in other places. Not good, which is a huge shame. Now if Bucky actually does ghjdl egwfg, askfkgka uk agkak fawfk bcak well then I will know that it's a sign of the end of the world and we're all going to wake up tomorrow with awful teeth not being able t understand what everyone else is saying.
Bucky. UGjkeaw ja jwdf asjyqKD skgfa jaf ajgfk olq
Bucky. UGjkeaw ja jwdf asjyqKD skgfa jaf ajgfk olq seglhl swl; keut;wg asegfiw daj adwja fajgff Stevie, askegf a ajwgfa fjaf kagfk akbf. Bkef eakf aegf am dkk kdaw suuppsheeeers awrb faaarrrl kfbakfbl. lsebf. Blarg. Bucky! Fnarp! HrruuuuuuuRRRGGHHGHHH.
OK, better than previously. I think Madonna might like her hair back though.
Melissa. Well she cocked that one up didn't she? Screwing up the lyrics that bad is not a good sign at this stage in teh competition. She tried to cover and didn't do it badly, but... She actually didn't sing it too bad though. Probably one of her best performances so far. I'm still not convinced she should be in the top twelve though.
Lisa. Gosh, did all the good people take shitty pills this week or soemthing? She's of key and the whole thing is just... I dunno, it's flat. Just in terms of the performance rather than the actual singing. Even with bopping around the stage (in a combination of really nasty shiny materials) she just seems to be a bit lifeless. Not happy.
Kevin. I'm hiding under the couch until he goes away. I'm afraid to come out until then.
Katharine. The only one so far tonight who has actually been any good at all. No Aretha Franklin but not half bad. She also looks happy and comfortable on stage and seems to relate to the audience. She is very good. Can't work out if I like her dress or not though.
Taylor. Best so far. He and Katharine are the only ones that have been any good. I just wish he could do at east one performance without gurning even once though. But even that said it was still his 'straighest' performance yet, if you know what I mean. he reigned in the whole 'I'm whacky aren't I?' deal for the first time.
Paris. Her stylist needs a good kicking. Not keen. Not awful, but it didn't do it for me.
And finally Chris. He's still shaggable but he shouted his way through that. As with Mandissa very disappointed because it wasn't awful but I expect so much better of him.
So of all twelve only Katharine and Taylor actually impressed me. Mandissa, Chris and maybe Paris were OK. The others were fairly pitiful with Bucky (bskh aekghfab HhhuuRGGHHHHhhHGGHH. Bucky!) and Kevin being the worst by far. But then again like I said before I don't know why they do Stevie Wonder night since it's always pretty poor all round. Now since I can't be fannied sitting through another half hour of Ryan pretending to not want to be taken roughly by Chris and South Park is on on the other channel I shall go and find out who got the boot...
Man, this season has some talent.
It's 50's night, but this ain't your Peepaw's 50's music!
MANDISA opened the show; I was iffy about it at first but she definitely brought the house down at the end.
BUCKY followed, with what was probably one of the two weaker performances of the night. Still, I could easily picture his twanged-up version of "Oh Boy" playing on country radio.
PARIS gave her best overall performace since her audition.
CHRIS. Hands down, the best performance I have seen EVER on A-Idol. I'd buy his sorta-creepy version of "I Walk The Line" tomorrow morning if I could. Frickin' smokin' H-O-T! *swoon!*
Who doesn't love KATHARINE? That girl is just lovable.
TAYLOR was fun once again, but can't replace Chris' performance in my heart tonight.
LISA was the second of the two weaker performances tonight. Just kinda "nice enough, but so what?"
As far as song choice goes, KEVIN picked my favorite song of the night ("When I Fall In Love"). Did it pretty well, too.
ELLIOTT just isn't the performer that Chris and Taylor are, but who can resist those vocals?
KELLIE is slowly and surely "pickling" away at the wall I had built up against her. "Look at the pickle!"
And ACE gave a Constantine-worthy performace tonight; he's back in it, folks.
Tomorrow night's going to be scary, and I'm worried for Bucky and Lisa (Lisa might very well take Paris' place in my earlier prediction of this season's 10th place finisher).
Chris needs to go now. Go and get his career started that will be bigger than any idol this show can produce. He is hands down the best performer ever to be on this, or any singing competition, show.
I got home late so the first I saw was Paris. She's okay, but I left the room to turn on the computer. I guess I wasn't enthralled.
Next was Chris - he's mezmerizing. I agree with Lash and LL. He's the best singer I've seen ever on AI - in fact he's the best damn singer I've seen on tv in years in anything. The guy's a star and I'm buying all his records. I absolutely loved his version of Walk the Line.
Then there was Katherine. I couldn't get over how flawlessly beautiful her face is. She's like a young Catherine Zeta Jones. She sang really well, but had the bad luck of coming after Chris.
Taylor bored me. I'm over the guy.
The shows still on. I'm multi-tasking. Will post my comments on the rest later.
Lisa was pretty bad. Her timing seemed off. And she stayed in her mid register. "Why do Fools Fall in Love" just begs the singer to soar into her upper register. Very disappointing.
Kevin was painful. I had to leave the room. He wouldn't have made my highschool's glee club with that performance.
Elliot was okay, nothing special.
Kellie was, like Chris, true to herself. Good job. Not a great voice, but a really good performance.
Ace - the boy band voice is just not my taste. But I guess he was good if you like that style.
In the clips at the end, I thought Mandissa was good and am sorry I missed her performance. I also like Bucky -- what can I say?
But seeing Chris again gave me chills. He's brilliant and if there is a God in heaven, he will win American Idol, break his contract, and make incredible cds.
My review, least favorite to most favorite...
11. Lisa. Even though I've liked her all along, I just didn't find this performance to be very special. There was nothing wrong with it, but nothing that sparkled.
10. Bucky. I'm not a fan of his and this performance didn't help. Seriously, if he did something really cool, I'd compliment it.
9. Taylor. I've liked him better than this before, but this performance just didn't work for me. I hated what he was wearing and the song was fun but had no POP.
8. Ace. He did well. I like the song a lot and I admired his version. Just no zing, I guess.
7. Kevin. Good vocals and he didn't do anything annoying. I think maybe I should rate him lower than others, but for some reason, I think 7 of 11 is where I'd really place him, tonight.
6. Elliott. He did a great job, but somehow the song didn't grab me a much as others.
5. Paris. LOVE "Fever"! She did a great version of it!
4. Katherine. Looked really great. Did a great song.
3. Kellie. Great song! She did it really well. She was still herself within such a major number.
2. Mandisa. She looked great and did an amazing job on the song.
1. Chris. I had been wondering what he would do ever since I heard that it was 50's week. He picked an awesome song and had it arranged *perfectly* for himself. That is just pure talent and skill. That's why he's #1 on my list.
I love the songs of the 50's so really, the show was very entertaining for me. I wonder if my bottom three will be the actual bottom three, but you just never know....
There's a mini-furor going on at AIByRequest that Chris' arrangement of "Walk the Line" isn't original at all but was instead copied from LIVE's cover of it (Live was a rock band that had a couple of good 90s hits like "I Alone" and "Lightning Crashes").
I don't know if this is true or not, anybody heard the Live version?
I thought LIVE was a great band. I think Chris would be great at singing one of their songs. I don't care if he copied from them (I don't know if he did) but it might be cool if he admitted it.
LIVE did do a version of this on their Awake album that came out in 2004. I haven't heard their's but I could see it being similar. I thought Chris' performance sounded like it was LIVE or could fit their style. If he did use their arrangement it would be nice to acknowledge it. Maybe it'll come up tonight.
Kevin must go. He's getting annoying.
And I had a blast with Taylor's song. I told my wife if he ever releases an album we should get it. Taylor's awkwardness would get on my nerves if I saw him perform live for a whole night, but in small doses, I like it. It's quirky, unique, and all him! However, it's also why I'd buy his album rather than see him live.
But Chris was by far the best performance IMHO (whether he adapted the song on his own, or sang LIVE's rendition...it was still solid gold! Oh, sorry, wrong singing show.
AArrrggg!! I missed it!
)@#!!!%@#%&^^$$$#@!!!!!!!
Taylor's definitely my favorite in this lineup.
Didn't disagree with tonight's exit, though it would have fit a little better after last week's "performance".
I just read the spoilers on the Zap2It boards so I know the result, though the show hasn't aired out here yet. I must say I'm relieved. It was long overdue for this singer to exit. Now the real competition begins and I don't care what happens, just as long as Chris wins.
Originally posted by Lightning Lad:
LIVE did do a version of this on their Awake album that came out in 2004. I haven't heard their's but I could see it being similar. I thought Chris' performance sounded like it was LIVE or could fit their style. If he did use their arrangement it would be nice to acknowledge it. Maybe it'll come up tonight.
I checked out Live's version (or a snippet of it at least) at the iTunes store. Probably that is Chris' version - BUT CHRIS IS MUCH BETTER!!! Can you tell I'm a total Chris fan. I like him more even than I like Nadia last year (and that was a lot).
Anyone think the little romance or hope for romance that Katherine alluded to last night was Ace?
I don't care for how AI presented Chris' arrangement of "Walk the Line" to be *his* idea though, that isn't fair to LIVE, a band that hit it big during the mid-90s grunge/rock (though they weren't especially grungy) craze.
I will definitely be checking out Live's version.
Just don't blame Chris. He never said it was his arrangement. Makes me wonder if this was a way for Idol to create some controversy for the perceived front runner early on.
Oh absolutely I don't blame Chris. Nothing can take away from that performance.
I just downloaded Live's version from Rhapsody. It is the same arrangement but Chris' style was still way different and just as good, if not better, than their's. And the song, while on a Live album was a studio recording. I don't understand why it didn't get a release. Quite good.
I don't mean to be nasty, but Barry Manilow just kinda bugs me. I know all the Fanilows are mad for him, but ....urg. Classic cheesy songs, but ...urg.
Appropriate elimination. I was surprised because he seemed to have lots of fans (for some reason), but it seemed right. Like now everyone left really is worthy.
OK, just quick ones this week. Much better theme this week, although I would quite like to have seen what they'd have all done with actual Manilow songs rather than just having him as their arranger. IMHO he's a much better writer than Stevie Wonder, but there we go. Anyhoo...
Mandisa: i was on the phone to my Mum when she was one so I was only half listening to her but she was pretty darn good. The problem I have with Mandisa at the moment is that she is so damn good that when she does does a very good performance even though it's a mile ahead of everyone else it's ever so slightly disappointing because you want her to be fantastic. She needs to do something that really makes her stand out.
Bucky: Huyuktb bhu Oh Boy! Ube ksbeku fbh s seb Oh Boy! I swear he gets more inteligable each week. Plus he simply just not a great singer. He can hold a tune, just, but he's not a performer and he's not even vaguely on a par with some fo teh other singers in teh contest. Fully deserved to be in the bottom three.
Paris: This week should have been a chance for her to really shine, especially on something like Fever, but she didn't. She was off key a fair amount and just seemed bit flat performance-wise. I'm a bit over Paris now i think, which is a shame because in the auditions she was fantastic.
Chris: He was very good but really I don't think he was as fantastic as others are making out. Sure he was one of the top performers but it just didn't quite do it for me. Maybe it's the same thing as Mandisa. I want him to be spectacular so when he's just very good he seems... not so good, if you know what I mean. He's still one of my picks for the final three though.
Katharine. OK, first off I have to say that it was a little Broadway, but I think that was the nature of the song as much as anything else. That being said Katharine was my favourite of the ngiht. The girl is absolutely effortless, knows exactly how to work the stage, the audience and the camera and looked utterly gorgeous. She isn't as great a techincal singer as Mandisa but she is quickly becoming my favourite by far. She's really going to have to screw up to make me not like her. Simon was right, last week she became a star. It was the same kind of thing as Fantasia doing 'What Are You Doing The Rest Of Your Life?'. It was that kind of performance where someone who has just been really good makes you sit up and think 'yep, that's a star'.
Taylor: Not a good song at all. It was just borign and didn't go anywhere. he sang it well and he always looks like he's having a great time but once we lose a few more of the weaker performers he's going to be in trouble unless he can pull something incredible out of the bag.
Lisa: Not bad but not great. I like Lisa but she's just a bit forgettable unfortunately. That being said I think this week I actually prefered her to Paris but I wasn't surprised she was in the bottom three.
Kevin: NOt good. Not awful, but certainly the weakest performance of the night. The right person went I think.
Elliott: Like Lisa and Paris, not bad but not really good enough either. I want to like Elliott (even if he does look like Spongebob Squarepants) but he's not done anything the last few weeks to wow me. I think he might go earlier than he maybe deserves to. I did like his honesty about meeting Barry though. That was nice to see.
Kellie: I just don't get her. Her cute dim act is just irritating now and her singing voice just isn't good enough. Not a bad song and not an awful performance but I think she should go now. Unfortunately she's trading on her personality and I think that'll carry her farther than she strictly deserves to.
Ace: Didn't se ehim because we were watching a programme about the 1948 Olympics but I can imagine that we chose the better thing to watch. I just don't like him and think he's another one just trading on his personality and looks.
So all in all a good week, but apart from Katharine no-one really made me sit up and pay attention. I think the problem is the remaining group are all fairly consistently good (tyo varying degrees) but no-one has really pulled ahead of the pack in the way that Fantasia did. Chris, Madisa and Katharine should be shoe-ins for the final three but it could still go any way really.
hmmmm... By far my least favorite episode of AI this season. The theme was "Songs of the 21st century".
NO one blew me away tonight.
I agreed with Simon about Mandisa and Chris' performances being self-indulgent, and in fact thought Chris was awful tonight. I enjoyed Mandisa a bit more. Notable was the Ryan/Chris shout-out to Live for Chris' performance last week. That *needed* to happeen.
Ace and Chris were my least favorites tonight.
Lisa, Kellie and Katharine were just okay to semi-good.
I agreed with Paula that Taylor needed to give the type of performance he gave tonight, and I enjoyed it well enough.
My favorites were the final 3. Bucky brought a smile to my face, I actually thought Paris was probably the best tonight and Elliott was really good.
From AIByRequest...
Chris' wife posts in her blog that Chris did indeed credit LIVE last week, but that it was edited out, and he was very upset that people thought he had taken credit for other musicians' work...
Ace's apparent nervousness tonight was pointed out...
Elliott's fudging-up of his lyrics tonight (I *knew* he had done so, right at the beginning of the song!!) was pointed out...
The fact that none of the judges mentioned Kelly Clarkson by name was pointed out...
I liked Ace, Taylor, and Bucky tonight. I thought Chris was true to himself, but I didn't like the song. I didn't like anybody else. Gotta agree with Lash, this was a bad night. The judges liked Paris and Eliot. I hated both performances - maybe because I hated the songs. Although I like Katherine a lot, I thought she screeched tonight. I don't know who is going home. It could be anybody after tonight.
I didn't see the show (kids forgot to tape it!), but I've listened to the mp3's.
I found it nearly impossible to not compare the songs to either the original version or other covers, that is, the songs I knew.
My opinions on worst to best....
Lisa. Sorry, Kelly Clarkson is a both a powerhouse *and* an emotional storyteller. Lisa didn't come anywhere close.
Katherine. Ditto regarding Christina Aguilera.
(I *love* both of the above songs, so it was probably impossible for me to like anyone else singing them.)
Elliott. Bo did that song REALLY well last season, and the original is great. I liked the kinda funky musical interpretation, but even Elliott's great voice didn't sell this one.
Ace. Not even close to the original. And he TOTALLY should have used the "best soy latte that you ever had" line in his performance. It's the standout lyric in that song, it's SO 21st century. I'm kinda kidding, but kinda not.
Kellie. I don't know this song, but it was really country. She was a tad pitchy, but it was pretty fun, overall.
Bucky. This song was the perfect choice for him. It sounded...legit. I've never rated him this high, I don't think.
Mandisa. I could tell that she was really into it, but it did sound like a lot of shouting.
Chris. He sounded a little pitchy, too, but it was a very "Chris" performance, meaning really rock, really solid.
Paris was very brave to take on Beyonce, and she nailed it!!! I thought she sounded great!
TAYLOR!! For the first time, he's my #1 choice! To be honest, it's probably because I don't know the song and it was really good and he did it really well. Also, I wonder if not having to actually see him might have been part of this.
Who did the original recordings of the songs by Chris, Mandisa, Kellie and Taylor? I know all the rest....
Chris' number was originally released by CREED (for the second week, there is a mini-furor brewing for him, in that this song was allegedly originally released in 1999).
Taylor's number was by some New Orleansish name-sounding guy I don't think I've ever heard of (gone were his trademark antics this week, he stood behind the mic and just SANG).
"Suds in the Bucket" is originally by Sara Evans.
Can't remember Mandisa's original singer's name.
I wish Taylor had taken
me to Prom...!
So, tonight's exit: No surprise.
Personal, to Bucky: Darlin', you deserve to be there as much as anyone else.
I guessed two of the three and guessed who it was to go. I thought for sure Bucky was bottom three.
I'm telling you guys, Bucky's going to hang in there. Next week is country week, I'm told, so Bucky will be right in his element.
Of those that are left, I think I'd like Paris to go.
Mandisa sang a song from the group Mary Mary.
I think the first row last night, the five who weren't in the bottom vote getters (Mandisa, Chris, Taylor, Paris and the Pickle) will be our top five. But, like Semi, I'd like to see Paris go. She isn't a favorite.
That would actually be an awesome top 5, if we replaced Paris with Katherine - maybe the best top 5 ever. I actually starting to think that the battle for the top won't be between Mandissa and Chris, but maybe between Chris and Taylor.
Ok, actually proper quick ones this time but I may come back with more later.
Overall a *really* poor night. The ones that should be front runners didn't seem like they could be bothered and the others just weren't very special.
Mandisa and Chris were being self-indlugent with their songs and neither of them gave very good performances. Mandisa was way off key for most of the song (the band weren't great for some reason either) and Chris was just shouting for the most part. Also, Simon was right in that Chris needs to show he can do something different. He's becoming a one trick pony and you can't (or at least shouldn't) win AI if you can't be at least a bit versatile.
Katharine was... well, she was shockingly bad. She's quickly becoming my favourite but she was awful this week. Way off key and just didn't seem comfortable. I was *very* dissapointed with her.
Lisa was OK. Nothing special but she wasn't bad and i think they overly criticised her. Not sure if she actually deserved to go or not but she wouldn't have lasted much longer so I'm not too upset.
Paris I really didn't like. No idea why the judges liked her so much, I thought she was... I dunno. Just didn't like it.
Elliot has started to wear ut his welcome. Again he didn't do anything for me and the song sucked.
Pickler and Bucky (jg bvukaeg ghekffueg bk aug bkuegf Bucky!) were actually far better than they ahve been any other week but quite frankly both of them were still not great and both of them were just... dull. Very, very dull. In tune (which is a first for both of them imho) but not interesting. I hope they both go home soon, although Kellie is almost certainly going to be around for a while at least more's the pity.
In fact the only person who stood out, the only one who actually looked like they could win was Taylor. I am so surprised I'm saying this since i thought he'd get irritating wuickly and that he'd be the one trick pony but for the second time he's come out as the frontrunner by a mile. He just stood there and showed how good a singer he was. Wasn't sure about the styling (again I agreed with Simon on that point) and maybe the song wasn't a 'wow' song, but the performance was. That song wouldn't win him the final vote for example but in a night of lacklustre performances and tedious song choices Taylor was the only one who actually made me stop what I was doing and listen to him.
Now I just hope next week they actually pick some decent songs and show what they can do otherwise people like Mandisa, Chris and Katahrine could get shown up by not-very-good-but-comfortable-with-Country singers (ie: Pickler and Bucky hughshhf bus gejgft gsgu Bucky!), which (of course) would be a huge shame.
Mandisa, Chris and Katahrine have already been shown up a time or two by Kellie and Bucky; it isn't a shame at all for me.
But I honestly believe Taylor is going to take this lock, stock and barrell.
And I hope he does.
I didn't see the elimination show. I wasn't surprised when I saw who it was.
All along this season, I've been thinking it's between Chris and Mandisa, but really, we have such a distinct group, it's very hard to predict who'll win.
Tonight was pretty fun!
TAYLOR opened with "Country Roads", and kept it pretty straightforward. Not my favorite of the night but he can still do little to nothing wrong in my eyes. I'm actually concerned that he might be letting some of his zanier appeal fall by the wayside.
MANDISA should have put some of her past zest into "Any Man of Mine". That song is meant to be sassy and I felt like she was holding back a bit.
Really, really liked ELLIOTT's performance. He gets my 'second favorite' spot of the night!
KELLIE's "Fancy" was enjoyable; she's won me over I guess; I actually can't believe it but it's true.
I missed ACE's performance due to circumstances, so I can't judge it, but the brief end-clip seemed good.
I thought PARIS did fine on "How Do I Live".
I thought CHRIS redeemed himself after last week's horror show.
KATHARINE is just *SO* adorable, in every way!
And the top spot tonight goes to-- BUCKY. I have always loved Vertical Horizon's "Best I Ever Had" (who can resist the line "no one here to say, 'Love can be so boring'")and wasn't even aware there was a country version of it. I *loved* it!!
We're getting down to the nitty gritty here; no one really deserves to be in the bottom this week.
And KENNY ROGERS! As many of you know, I'm a SUCKER for KENNY ROGERS!
So yeah, I had fun tonight.
It's likely I'll miss tomorrow night's show, so you guys please post thorough spoilers!
I really didn't like Bucky. Ace is just pure chesse.
I like Elliott and Taylor the best.
I thought the song choices were really vague, especially considering that there are so many country songs that are sure-fire crowd pleasers. I kinda felt like Simon... unable to "get into it."
My least favorite to most favorite...
Paris. Vocally, she just didn't start off very well, and by the time she got to go big, it was too late. She didn't seem into it. BTW, I do like that song a LOT.
Taylor. Really bland interpretation of this song. No, his normal koo-koo energy was not there. Maybe he should have done "Thank God I'm a Country Boy" instead. John Denver records were played in my house a LOT when I was a kid, so I have a lot of affection for those songs and I was hopeful regarding Taylor's choice. I was let down.
Ace. Really boring. I didn't think his questionable falsetto gave it any flavor at all.
Bucky. Again, really boring. I was surprised by his choice. There are SO many great country songs that he MUST know, and he did this dull thing.
Mandisa. She was really trying, but this song just came across as kinda sloppy. Maybe she should have gone for the country power ballad.
Kellie. She seemed to really know this song, and really seemed confident, but she had a distant look in her eye the whole time. Still, she sounded good.
Chris. He's been my favorite all along, but he's only third for me tonight. It was a good idea for him to choose a ballad that didn't require any screeching, but I think he could have done something with a little more emotion or feeling. Still, he did well.
Elliott. He has such a great voice. He really sang the song well. I do get distracted by the wild look in his eyes sometimes, but still, he's looking better than ever and that voice can't be denied.
Katherine. I've always liked her, so I'm pleased to put her in my #1 spot. She was the most entertaining and had a clean, strong vocal. She's also very easy on the eyes!
I'm very picky when it comes to liking country songs. CMT has been showing their top 100 country songs and their top 100 country love songs, and I quite enjoy many of them. I guess I prefer classic country. I guess that makes me a fussier arm chair judge on shows like tonight's.
I thought of Bevis when Kenny Rogers warned that Bucky should really concentrate on his enunciation for that song. Then, when he performed, I swear I didn't understand his first few lines at ALL!
He he he, see the unintelligable (sp?) Bucky syndrome is affecting others now. Maybe he's doing it on purpose...
We're actually off to see Bonnie Rait on Friday night so I may miss this week's performances if I don't remember to watch it on Sunday (they keep moving round the repeat here) which is a shame because I'm looking forward to seeing Country night, especially if Kenny is there. Good to hear Katharine is back on form after last week's mess of a performance, but I do worry that Mandissa is slipping. She is such a good singer (technically a good singer if you see what i mean) that she should be wy ahead of the pack every week but she hasn't actually done anything to wow me since the first week really, which isn't good.
I retuned to civilzation in time to flip on the TV and see tonight's SHOCKING expulsion standing there alongside Ryan, saying her goodbyes.
This blows a lot of top-3 finalist theories... including mine. The most shocking elimination so far.
How long before we hear claims of a phone outage in the contestant's hometown/state or a constant busy signal. Seems to happen whenever we have an exit like this.
<span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">Mandisa!</span></span>
That's what I thought. Thanks Scott.
<span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text"> Bucky survives still? please. and Ace too? Bah</span></span>
Last night I loved Chris - his voice has so much character. I really liked Bucky. I didn't much like anyone else, but I thought Taylor was particularly bad.
<span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">As for tonight, I'm in total shock. This was just wrong. It should have been that annoying little Paris.</span></span>
I don't know how to make that fun spoiler box so I just have to say that I was totally surprised by the elimination. The fan bases of each contestant just never make sense to me.
There are always conspiracy theories about eliminations, many of them blaming race, many blaming Vote For the Worst. Sometimes, it might just boil down to popularity.
I shouldn't really have read the spoilers since I haven't actually seen any of the performances yet, but I did and... well, knock me down with a feather. You can never take account of the way people are going to vote but even still I'm very surprised by this one.
At the aibyrequest yahoo group, there are a bunch of people calling racism as the reason you know who was eliminated. Grrrrr... it's so ridiculous and frustrating. I composed an angry response, but deleted it. Not worth it.
I could think of a number of reasons why they got voted off, but I would be very surprised if it was because of racism. There probably are some people that vote based on the colour of someone's skin but I would be hugely surprised if they did so in any kind of significant number. The most likely reason (possibly along with the vote for the worst thing) is simply that people assumed they were safe and so voted for the people that they thought might be at risk. We had a very similar thing here with the last series of X-Factor where someone who everyone assumed was going to last till the final went early on. But then sometimes people just vote in odd ways. I doubt there's any kind of nefarious vote fixing or weighting of the vote because of the way someone looks. Even I'm not that cynical.
I think she got voted off for the same reason that Nadia got voted off last year - the voters don't know shit about talent. Come on, America has made millionaires out of Jessica Simpson and Britany Spears. You expect them to choose an American Idol with talent???
Semi, the only problem I have with your comment is that the winners have always been very talented. Mandisa and Nadia have their place in the music industry, but the winners of AI have been both talented and the most popular, each season. Kelly Clarkson, Ruben Studdard, Fantasia and Carrie Underwood have earned their titles despite what fans of other contestants may think.
Also, weird voting results have kept this competition interesting. The fact that really interesting performers get voted off, and really lame performers get to stay keeps this show vivacious.
(Addendum....I was utterly stunned by the fact that Latoya London was booted so early and by the fact that Bo Bice didn't win.)
Oh, and I was also surprised that Tamyra Gray was eliminated before the girl with the wildly colored hair in Season 1.
This stuff happens.
OK, quick ones since we already know the result.
Taylor: He was reaching. His voice sounded strained and I wasn't keen. A shame since last week he was so bloody good.
Mandissa: Well she didn't deserve to go but it wasn't great. Credit to her for picking a full on country song when it clearly isn't her style, but it wasn't that good a song. No way on earth should she have gone this early in the game though.
Elliot: I'm sorry but Spongeelliot Squarepants isn't doing it for me any more. Not a good performance and he looked like he was absolutely cacking his oants the way he was gripping the mic with both hands. He can sing but he didn't do well this week and he's simply not a performer.
Paris: ugh. By far the worst this week. Actually one of the better sing choices in a week of lacklustre choices but she was off key all the way through and never looked comfortable. I'm done with paris I think.
Pickler: Yawn. The girl is just too dull for words. She was in her element and still drifted past like elevator music. She wasn't bad per se but she's just wallpaper. Her ditzy cuteness is getting wearing too.
Chris: Ooooh, Chris recovers from last week. Not the most exciting sing but it was fantastic to see him do something that was very clearly country (rather than taking a country song and making it all rock) and actually just singing very simply. The first ballad we've had from him and the first time since the auditions that he's really shown quite how good his voice is. I just hope this week wasn't a one off and we get to see a bit more versatility from him over the next couple of weeks otherwise people might get bored with him.
Katharine: Actually my favourite performance of the night. Katharine is quicky becoming my favourite performer out of all of them. She knows how to work the stage, how to use the camera and has a great singing voice as well. I loved the song choice (it is a slightly silly and quirky song but it's also a good song and not so easy to sing) and I thought she looked gorgeous. She's one of the few singers left who actually seems to have a clear idea of who she is musically. She and Chris are now my picks for the final (which probably means they'll be the next two to go).
Ace: Snooooooooore. I think he was actually on earlier in the running but I forgot about him till now. That says it all really. His cheesy 'I'm so cute I could just eat myself all up' grin gets right on my tits now and I just want to see him go. He's not the worst singer out of the bunch but there's something about him that just irritates the hell out of me.
Bucky: Hmmm. The first thing Kenny says to him as that he needs to ennunciate when he sings or the song won't work. That wasn't a good song choice really was it? Bucky once again proved that while he thinks he might be talking English it's obviously being intercepted by aliens on the way to my ears and is just coming out as completely garbled shite. Gkveygf gegf fy yiwdg Yeah! Bucky! YFyeg kse ta iae ygfdai biag oooooooooh! Plus, I know he's a country singer and it was his comfort zone but did he really think that dressing like the joke stereotype of a country singer was going to win him votes? The jacket was just... urgh. I don't like Bucky much.
So in a night of pretty poor performances again (they're not the strongest bunch of contestants there's been on AI) the only two to stand out were Chris and Katharine. Pickler was Ok but still 'meh' and the others were dissapointing or as rubbish as expected. Lets hope they actually pick up their game next week.
re: Nadia last year; I think she went when she did because of her shout out to AI-screwer Mario Vasquez, which quite clearly pissed Simon off royally (as well as Randy and Paula) and probably many voters as well. (Not me. I voted for her every time.) It was at this point that the one-time "steak among hamburgers" (Simon's words for Nadia) became crap souffle in the judges eyes and she went the next week.
It certainly wasn't her performance of "When I Dream", which was bluesy and brilliant. I have all her AI-performances burned so I hear 'em often. She was excellent.
Bev, I find Bucky to be endearing, sweet and sincere. Different strokes, I guess.
As you say, different strokes. I'm harsh with my crticism but a lot of it based on my own personal tastes. Like, Kelly can clearly sing. She can hold a tune and even though she does go off key sometimes she's not the only one to do it, but when it gets down to it I don't like her particular singing style. She just seems bland to me. She's had some awful performances, but to be fair so have Chris and Katharine, so a lot of the reason that I don't like her (and Bucky and Ace) is because of my own tastes. Which, I guess, is kind of the point. It's all well and good trying to be objective when it comes to something like AI but at the end of the day you vote for the people that you like, and the reason you like them is sometimes a little undefinable. I still can't understand a word that Bucky is saying though.
So. QUEEN night tonight. Can't say I'm biting my nails in anticipation. I mean, don't get me wrong, Queen rawks, but that seems a bit-- restrictive for AI.
Here's hoping someone has the nads to do UNDER PRESSURE tonight.
Otherwise not really looking forward to everyone trying to struggle through WE WILL ROCK YOU or WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS.
Am curious to see who will perform BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY.
And will anyone tempt fate by performing ANOTHER ONE BITES THE DUST?
TAYLOR HICKS IS YOUR NEXT AMERICAN IDOL.
Well, he should be anyway. He was scream-inducingly, outrageously good tonight.
I also rather enjoyed Bucky and thought Elliott was excellent.
Everyone else? Meh to so-so.
Taylor was great. Perfect song.
I liked Elliott and Katherine too.
Get Bucky and Ace out. Bucky dosen't have the voice and Ace is just so fake.
And I give props to Kellie too. Such a hard song choice-Bohemian Rasposdhy- but she pulled it off, more with her charm and personality, but she pulled it off.
I dreaded all the performances except for Chris', but overall, I think it went well.
Worst to best....
8. Ace. Maybe this will be his last night? I just don't care for his work.
7. Katherine. Beautiful song, but I wanted to be wowed. I wasn't.
6. Taylor. His silly grandpa dancing ruined what could have been a great performance. He sounded great.
5. Bucky. He did a fine job.
4. Paris. I didn't know that was a Queen song! I only know it from Moulin Rouge. She looked fantastic and did very well.
3. Kellie. I wasn't expecting it to go well, but it did.
2. Elliott. A bit iffy at first, but overall, he did the song very well.
1. Chris. I totally disagree with Simon. Chris is picking songs that work for him. This was a very big song and Chris did it very well.
I thought Taylor
rocked!! Switching songs to "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" was a brilliant move for him, there is no better Queen song for Mr. Hicks to perform!!! I didn't even mind the dancing, he was having fun.
Usually Ace beats a Queen... not this time. Ace should go.
And I wasn't at all impressed with the performance Katherine gave, so I don't know why the judges were so blown away...
Elliot and Chris both had excellent showings as well! Pretty good night. I bet $1 million dollars Ryan Seacrest makes a joke tomorrow night along the lines of "Another One Bites the Dust"... any takers?
Thanks goodness. I really didin't like this performer.
<span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text"> Bucky's gone! Ace is next!</span></span>
Woo-hoo! We're probably going to miss it this week because we're off to Edinburgh for the weekend but even if we do miss it at least I know I'm happy with the result.
Although that is one fewer person to mercilessly rip the mick out of...
Simon was right; based on performance, it should have been Ace. But his day is coming too. No one will be able to stop the Taylor juggernaut!
I don't want to tick anyone off...so, when can we mention who got booted?
My friends and I have weekly AI viewing parties, which have now turned into a Katharine McPhee voting party. And most of them have never even voted before on AI. Is it that we're just so very wowed by her? Not really. We just want to make sure she stays over some lesser singers, and any way we can erode some of the vote totals for Creepy Taylor (Sorry LASH, I know you like him) and Kellie "Snot Rag" Pickler is good with us.
My dream Top 3 would be Chris, Eliott and Katharine. But I don't think that's gonna happen...
Best usually to leave actually saying who went until Friday or Saturday (it first gets broadcast in the UK on Friday nights). I'm not sure if I'm the only non-USer here or if it gets broadcast in places like Australia the same week it's broadcast in the US and UK so they may have a different day of the week that they get to see the results but for me Saturday is preferable before saying who actually went. I'm always a little wary on Thursday and Friday not to read to closely in case there are spoilers since I know they could be here, but probably best to play it safe.
I'm with you on Katahrine though. She's had some great performances and some dodgy ones but she's been pretty consistent and there's just something about her that i really like. She may not technically be the greatest singer they've ever had on AI, but she is one of the best performers, if you know what I mean. I actually have grown to really like Taylor though. I didn't like him at all to start with but the last couple of performances before last week (last week being the country week) made me sit up and realise that he's actually a damn good singer when he's not trying so hard to be whacky. So my current top three would eb Katahrine, Chris and Taylor. And unless Chris shows again that he can do somethign else other than the heavy rock (as he did during country week) I'm even inclined to hope that the final is between Taylor and Katharine with Katharine just pipping him to the post.
Course, that being said things change. You never know, I could end up wanting Kellie to win....
I guess this result just shows that it's really a popularity contest. Ace should have been the one to go, based on this week's performance, but it was just a matter of time before this week's contestant left.
I guess I'm such a fan of Chris that I don't really see any competition for him. I do hope for him to do something a bit different, maybe something jazzy or a standard, something to show he's able to go outside the box. His country ballad was one step that way.
Exactly, that's what i want to see too. We know that he's a great rock singer but apart from his country ballad all we've really seen from him is doing slight variations on rock songs. I want to see him tackle something that's completely different and outside his comfort zone. Of course it might not work but it will show he's not afraid to branch out, even if he never actually does something like that during his career. The one theme that i really want to see him tackle (and I wish we'd got to see Mandissa tackle) is disco. I can't even think what he'd do but it's so far from what he's naturally good at that he could easily pull something incredible out of the bag.
Well tonight was a really good night. I think that everyone sounded great. They all did great American standards.
My favs for tonight are Elliott -'It had to be You' and Katherine- 'Someone to watch over me'. Chris was pretty good in the quiet song he chose- 'Wonderful World'.
Ace was ok, but Kellie just kinda messed up her song. my vote is Ace to go.
If it was based on tonight's performance, then Kellie should go, but of course, it will be based on popularity. Elliott may be out.
Kellie started off just great, but she kinda lost it in the middle and she knew it. That song is meant for very competent singers and she just isn't there.
Elliott sounded great as usual, but his awkward stage presence could mean the end for him.
Ace did a very good job. He looked kinda weird with his hair all slicked back, but he did look good in the suit. I wasn't as bothered by him as normal.
Taylor started off really boring, but kicked into a high gear and ended with a BANG! Loved it!
Chris did a great job with clean, clear and mellow vocals. It was a tad dull, but still good quality.
Katherine's face was just gorgeous in the extreme close-ups they decided to use, and she sounded really good, though perhaps a *tad* pitchy in parts. Overall, great.
Paris was so natural and cool. She sounded like herself, not Fantasia. My #1 for the week.
LOVE these standards, but I haven't purchased any of Rod Stewart's song book cd's. I won't see tomorrow night's show, and don't care to have it taped. I'll come here and to the AI yahoo group to get the results.
Wow, last night was all about Paris, she totally blew everyone out of the water. Had she been the last to sing, the performance would have been compared to Fantasia's watershed rendition of Summertime, truly amazing.
Last night really was a good night; I rather didn't expect it to be.
My favorites were Chris, Elliott, Taylor and Katharine. I also think this would be a peachy final 4.
Kellie showed why she has garnered the support of Vote For The Worst. Still, she's so gosh-danged CUTE with her nonsense.
Paris was good but I can't bring myself to give 2 figs about her. Ace sucked monkey-butt.
Who's going home tonight? My money's on Ace (fingers crossed) or Elliott (which would be a real shame).
I agree with Lash...
I do want Chris to win, but think the Katherine would be a better Idol. Chris will do just fine either way.
Well I didn't watch it but I read it.
<span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text"> Ace is gone! But Chris and Paris were in the bottom three with him! </span></span>
Not surprised by the outcome here...
Argh, I forgot to record tuesday's show AND I had to record Alias over AI tonight so I completely missed this week. Were the songs Rod tunes or like, tunes from Rod's "tight leggings era" or something?
Woot for the boot, not woot for the other two in the bottom three. One of them doesn't surprise me hugely, the other one does a bit. But then again after Mandissa getting teh boot anything can happen.
I'm actually looking forward to this week for the first time in a while. I've not liked the themes for a while because they just seem so restrictive and I'd rather each performer got to do something that really suited their style rather than having to fit their style to a theme (if you see what i mean). Paris has suffered especially from that. She just hasn't had the chance to do anything that really fits her for weeks. It could just be that she's not very good at picking songs, but she hasn't shown the potential she had during the early rounds for a good few weeks. Hopefully they'll keep more to the general themes from now on rather than a particular person, writer or group.
MEL, they were songs from Rod Stewart's American Songbook collections. So, they were standards. I love that genre, personally.
I'm fine with tonight's eliminated singer, but I just don't understand how the other two were in the bottom 3. (I didn't see the show...) I'm glad Elliott was free and clear. I was worried about him.
As for the themes, well, I support the show doing them. I think that it really shows the contestants' creativity and talent to be able to fit themselves into the theme. The ones that do the best at this are generally the best overall. All of the previous winners were good at this, and the ones in the top two or three were good at it too. It's a way to weed out the lesser performers.
You are right that it does force the contestants to do things they wouldn't normally do and I do like the themes but I'd rather they were more on the genral side of things (country, disco, American standards) than the ones where they're tied to a particular performer or group, if you see what I mean. Much as I like Queen their songs can be a little samey. The same goes for Stevie Wonder. The performers end up too restricted to my mind, whereas with the genre themes they actually have room to breathe. If you think about it as good as Fantasia or Kelly Clarkson are they still perform particular styles of sings. They suceeded by making their choice during the theme weeks fit their style even if they were forced to think slightly outside the box (eek, I'm using Manager Speak. The world is surely doomed). Maybe it's just that this year they've not been as good at doing that or thet're just not as flexible, but I would like more weeks where they can just do whatever they like. If they end up just doing the same thing over and over then it's likely to be their undoing but at least you'd get to see them doing the kind of performance that they'd want to do if they amke it into the big time.
I was definitely fine with this week's eliminated contestant.
I was less fine with the "spot" AI put Taylor in, making him pick the "safe" group. If I were him, I would have gone and sat with the judges, or would have done like Bo Bice last year and just refused to pick.
Most telling of all is that Kellie, who certainly gave the other worst performance of Tuesday night along with "he who was eliminated" was in the safe group with Taylor, Katharine and Elliott.
I've certainly warmed to her but I really don't think she should win (based on her spotty performances).
Like Paula, I think she'll make an excellent comedic actress though.
Thanks for the recap. Rod Stewart's hair and historical choice of pants bother me slightly but I love his older music, especially his stuff with the Faces. This is totally random but I think I read in Entertainment Weekly that know McPheever apparently went to highschool with "Summer" from the OC?
Haven't all of the stars that hooked up with AI had a new cd to pimp? Barry Manilow, Stevie Wonder, Shakira, Rod etc.... I know it's no coincidence.
But I also don't mind!
yeah Mel, apparently Rachel Bilson-Summer, went to school with Katherine. It was on the ew.c om blog.
Oh, almost certainly Dean. Call me cynical but I doubt they'd get stars like them otherwise. Like you say though, I don't mind.
OK, so we've just finished watching it and I have to say that compared to the last few weeks it was a vast improvement. Bizarrely ITV (who broadcast it here) cut it down *hugely*. It was only on for forty-five minutes and Ace didn't get his bit with Rod Stewart and Katharine didn't even get introduced or get proper criticism because they cut most of it. Very odd. But it does mean there was more actual singing in the show which was good. As to the performances...
Chris: Wow momma the boy was looking *hot*. I have a bit of thing for suits anyway and when it's someone like Chris who is also showing off his sexy arms then... left me with a happy smile on my face.
Oh, and he sang too I think. He he. Not quite as good as his country week, but then I think that was just because I find the song a bit... well, twee, maybe. Not my favourite song but Chris did it pretty darn well. He certainly didn't deserve to be in the bottom three.
Paris: Hmmm... OK, this was clearly her forte. It's exactly the type of music that suits her downt o the ground but I'm not sure why it wasn't as fantastic as it should have been. It might not have been the best choice in the world (I would love to have hard her do something like 'That old Black Magic' or 'It's Only A Paper Moon') or it might have been the odd over-pronounced way she was shaping the words that made her sound like she was trying to sing in a posh English accent but there was just something that didn't quite work for me. That being said she was absolutely note perfect and it was by far her best performance since the auditions. It's just a shame that it didn't click for me. I think that's almost certainly just personal taste in this case though.
Elliot: Ah, Sponge-Elliot Squarepants. I so want to like him, I really do. He's a very good singer. He seems to be ever such a nice chap. He has ears that deserve further study because of their general oddness. He has a permanent startled look that makes him both endearing and ever so slightly worrying. He sings nicely and performs nicely and... I'm sorry, I've forgotten what I'm talking about. Oh yes, Elliot. I really, *eally* want to like Elliot but try as I might he stops singing and I just forget about him. That's not a good trait for someone wanting to be AI. He can sing though, I just find him very forgetabl... oooh, look, a shiny new penny.
Taylor: It was good, but not great. Possibly because he's now done the whole 'really great performances half way through the contest' thing he's now got the problem of living up to them. He can't just be 'good' any more, or even 'really good' he has to be *great* (Chris has the same problem) and this week he was just... very good. Better than most of the others (certainly top three material) but I just wanted something a bit more from him.
Kellie: As you may have noticed I'm not Kellie's biggest fan. It's not that she's awful, it's just that she is unbearably *boring*. Pretty, cute, unbelievably thick/naive (delete one depending on how charitable you're feeling towards her) and funny in a 'let's laugh and the unfortunate' way but no great shakes as a singer and not deserving of being in the final twelve. Tonight though she did two things. She really gave the only bad performance of the night (although it wasn't appaling) and she gained some respect from me for actually admitting that she made a mess of it right off the bat and genuinely seeming to realise she had made mistakes and not trying to make excuses for herself. Fair dues to her for doing that, it's more than most of the others have doen in the past. But she really proved that she is just not even vaguely in the same league as the others.
Ace: OK, so I said that Elliot was forgetable and the Kellie is boring but my gods Ace was just *dull*. He sang the only song I have never heard before (or at least that I completely failed to recognise) and he sang it in such a way that calling it lift/elevator musak would be an insult to lift musak. It wasn't out of tune as far as I could tell but quite frankly he could have been singing completely the wrong tune and I wouldn't have noticed because I was in a bloody coma. Kellie was worse in terms of technical singing, Ace was far worse in terms of performance. Plus his jacket was far too short and I wanted to slap him for having his tie showing at the bottom of it. That isn't fashion it's just crass and makes you look scruffy. Elliot and Chris did the 'casual suit' look sucessfully. Ace just looked like a four year old who's been made to wear a suit for his Grandma's birthday and hates it.
But I'm goign to feel oddly lost next week without bucky or Ace to rant about. *Sigh* What could possibly make up for that? Oh yes, of course...
Katharine: My gods this girl is great. I really didn't rate her at first. She just seemed like the pretty one who would be a bit nondescript and go about halfway through. Shows you how wrong you cna be.
See, Katharine, bless her, actually had some awfully duff notes this week. Not screechy or grating or anything but way, way off key. But with her you either don't really notice or don't mind. What she may possibly lack in technical skill (and that'll come with training) she more than makes up for in sheer presence and her all round performance. Simon was right, she looks like a complete pro already. She knows exactly how to use the camera and speak to the audience through her song. She manages to sell every single performance and makes it feel like she's singing directly to you. I know I'm gushing a bit but, well, I *really* like Katharine. I do think Fantastia and Kelly Clarkson are probably better technical singers than Katharine but in terms of the raw performer Katharine has them both beat. Occasionally she comes across as being a bit musical theatre (but then again so did Fantasia) but it doesn't really bother me because she seems to know that and controls it. It's the same way that she very nearly went off into irritating warbling this week but just held back from it and managed to avoid the one thing that could have ruined her performance for em.
So we're down from twelve to six and at least three of them I would be more than happy with being the winner (Katharine, Chris and Taylor). Elliot and Paris need to do something fantastic for me to think they deserve to be there and Kellie, bless her, really needs to bog off and go back to being nice and dim before Jessica Simpson finally fires a couple of neurons and realises someone is stealing her act (besides I think Jessica Simpson's blondness is far more amusing than Kellie's).
Final two though I wouldn't want to call and the winner... yeesh, it could be any of them. I would love it to be Katharine but for some reason i think she might lose out, even before the final three. I hope I'm proved wrong on that point though.
Just felt like continuing Bevis' thoughts on Katherine...
I've liked her all along, but she's made mistakes. She's chosen songs that are beyond her reach, vocally, which really matters in this competition. Her beauty does a LOT to keep her on the show, though. She reminds me of last year's looker, Vonzell. (Not style-wise, but in a more technical way.)
I haven't really become a major fan of *anyone* this season, whereas every other year I have. I consistently like Chris' performances, but there's something about him that keeps me at a distance. The hard rock edge? I dunno. I mean, it's not a "guy" thing, because I've really liked Ruben and Bo and even Clay in the past. I liked Justin, too, but not as much as Kelly.
Anyway, I look forward to the next show. I'll be at work, so hopefully one of my kids will successfully tape it for me.
Wow! I'm first to review!
I love these kind of songs, the big gooey ballads. So, I was open to see what was going to happen. Overall, it was a good show, but some of the singers just weren't all that impressive.
My call on worst to best....
Kellie. I LOVE Unchained Melody, and am a very fussy judge when this song is performed. I don't know the Leanne Rimes version, but Kellie's was awful! So dull and boring and she had a faraway look in her eye. Yeah, she hit the high note, but so?
Katherine. I was surprised the judges were so hard on her, because I actually think she sounded pretty good. She didn't innovate much with the song, but I suppose that'd be hard. She looked fantastic. Sexy! The reason I rate her so low on *my* scale is because I felt like she was kinda screechy and loud. I bet it was rough to be there, live.
Taylor. Sometimes he just sings a song the way it was done originally, and it just lays there and nothing happens. That's how it was tonight.
Paris. She totally overdid it. This song should be melancholy, and sad. She made it brassy and spectacular. Vocally, she did a great job, but it didn't make sense.
Elliott. I don't know this song, but his passion for it and his delivery make me want to seek it out. I'm glad Elliott hasn't be eliminated yet, because this performance was really good for his reputation on the show.
Chris. I'm a Chris fan, but nights like tonight confirm for me why that is. I LOVED hearing his vocal on that song. The song is a nice love song, and I don't dislike Bryan Adams, but Chris' version made me like it even more. He was very controlled and tender, but big and passionate when it was time for that.
The judges were weird tonight. Randy was very hard to please. Paula was all over the place and Simon was especially rough. I suppose it'd be annoying to keep getting cut off.
Yep, I'm definitely backing Chris all the way!
Looking at the line-up last night after the performances, Chris looked like the only one who could win. He's still my favorite and has been the most consistent of the group.
I pretty much agree with Dean's assessment except for Katherine. I think the judges were overly harsh and her performance was much better than Paris'. Paris just continues to grate on my nerves for some reason. Katherine did great, about on par with Elliott's performance in my book.
It is going to be an interesting results show tonight.
My vote is Elliott and Chris, with Katherine.
There is something about Elliott that I like.
I actually enjoyed them all last night, but the three guys were definitely my favorites with Taylor barely edging out Chris ("Just Once" is always a sure bet of a song with me) and Chris barely edging out Elliott.
I thought Katharine was really good, and enjoyed Paris too. I liked Kellie but she was probably my sixth place.
My prediction is one of the 3 remaining ladies will go tonight.
If not, we may very well have seen the last of Elliott.
Long shot: Last year, Constantine was ousted in sixth place, surprising many. This year, it could be Taylor.
Chris was great last night. The best by far.
Elliot did a great job as well.
Kat was good, with a few slight issues with her range with that song...but good overall.
The rest were passable(Paris and Taylor) to poor and painful(Kellie).
Also, the dumb blond act has gotton really old.
On a side note...whoever told Kellie that she looked good with that make-up and hairdoo was laughing for hours...
Another thing I noticed was that they (AI) show Kat with softer lighting and wonderful angles and not too close close-ups. Kellie however, they frame her face, and show her from a dostance. They are soo pushing Kat over Kellie with their production of how they showcase the performers it isn't even funny.
I still want Chris to win.
So, tonight's elimination was arguably a surprise as this finalist has never even seen the bottom once before, but on the other hand it probably really was time for her to go already.
Oh well. I'll miss her as I think the other one in the bottom deserved to go first. Too bad she didn't get her chance to sing.
This is a comment on the tuesday show, but did Kat's yellow dress pop open a bit during her song? It was a bit jarring hearing her sing Whitney and go all Janet for a bit
Ah...sweet, sweet 6th place eliminations...Carmen Rasmussen, Jon Stevens, Constantine..and now THIS one.
Well, since you guys are so discreet, I went to the AI yahoo group to figure out who was eliminated.
possible spoiler...
She was my pick to go last week!
I found myself up a bit late last night watching tv, and I came across the Nashville Star show, which is a total AI copy, country style. Well, the thing is, their singers are totally awesome! The one girl left is totally hot in a Sheryl Crow way. She sang a GREAT version of the Dixie Chicks' "Sin Wagon." Then, this totally studly kid sang "How Great Thou Art." He was amazing! Then, this total young Johnny Cash type sang some kinda kick-@ss song. Then another cowboy stud man sang a touching country ballad. He was like, 20 years old. Really good.
These people are majorly talented, and I don't normally care for country music. I would have no idea how to judge who should go and who should stay. I was amazed to see that a couple of the judges were Scott and Duff from Velvet Revolver!
I think this could be a really cool show to watch. I think I've seen bits of it before.
I've seen only one full ep of Nashville Star before and LOVED it, because the contestants sang their original material (that week anyway).
That was the first season, and when the guy (Buddy something?) sang "Lacey's Song" (I believe it was called) I knew he had it wrapped up, and he DID end up winning.
I'd like to watch it regularly, I just always forget it's on.
I missed the first three performances, so I'll have to listen to them later. I did get to see the little "wrap up" clips at the end of the show.
Elliott seemed to do a great job with "On Broadway." It seems like a perfect song for his vocals.
I didn't hear enough of Chris on "Renegade." Sounds like Simon liked it, though.
I bet it was fun hearing Paris do "Kiss" by Prince. Love that song.
I did see Katherine perform "Against All Odds." It was only okay to me. Her vocals aren't stable enough I think. It's like I don't *trust* her with that song. When it was over, I wasn't sure if I liked it or not, which I often feel with her.
How could anyone not like Taylor singing "Funky Music?" So fun! I liked it, anyway...
Elliott singing "Home" was very nice, but it's a dull song. Not really a competition number, y'know?
I didn't know Chris' second song, but yeah, he did sound like he was straining. That yelling/singing he does is VERY hard on the vocal chords. He should get a teacher. Still, the song rocked.
Paris did a decent job with the Mary J. Blige song, but it did come across as a "wanna-be" performance. I suppose that's okay considering her age, but I prefer my American Idols to be more individualistic.
Katherine was much better with her second song. She seemed more comfortable, and the song fit her vocal. She looked great with straight hair!
Taylor did a great job on "Something else else!" He didn't totally copy the Beatles, but he didn't go all nutty and he wasn't boring. Perfect!
So, I guess tonight's evaluation is all about averaging out the two performances....
5. Katherine had one pretty bad and one good.
4. Paris had one good and one okay.
3. Chris had one good (evidently) and one okay.
2. Elliott had one pretty good and one good.
1. Taylor had two good performances!!
Here's the deal, though.... I don't want Katherine to be eliminated. I like her more than Paris.
My wish for the rest of the season (unless something happens to change my mind)....
Paris goes tomorrow night, then Katherine, then Elliott...
then Taylor and Chris battle it out at the finale. Only after I see that show (because they'll probably both sing the same song) would I know who to pick.....
Heh! We shall see....
I don't even like the 'black cherry horse' song that katherine did but I really liked her performance. I liked both Chris' performances. Paris' second one was a'ight, and both Taylor and Elliot's performances were mid to mid-high to me.
Just read the headline about who was booted.
Um, I'm good with it.
Yeah, I'm OK with it too. It has to be said though that of the five left after the departure of Kellie I wouldn't have any objection to any of them winning. I would like the final to be between Katahrine and Chris but then I also really like Taylor and Elliot and when Paris is good she's really good. Oddly enough though none of them really stand out for me as being majorly better than the others unlike in previous years. I like Katharine most as a performer but she's possibly not technically the greatest singer of the bunch and Chris is hot and can sing fantasticaly but does have a tendency to shout as well. They all have things that detract from their performances that are noticable enough to make me question how good they are, which is a shame. Not to say any of them are *bad*, they're clearly not, I just sometimes feel that the final five lack a little something. They're worthy of being the final five but I would want something a little extra to be shown by whoever eventually wins.
It was totally Elliott's night. He picked the perfect songs for his voice. He was awesome!
Taylor and Chris were very much themselves, both good.
Katherine just seemed messy and out of her league.
Elliott was really good. i actually liked Katherine's first song (the second one kind of petered out). Chris' songs were good until that last harsh screaming bit at the end of his second song. Taylor's was..ehn, alright.
The fact that Katherine forgot a line during the song was a telltale sign. She shouldn't have tried being clever and making a medley of "Hound Dog" and "All Shook Up"!!
Taylor's performance of "In the Ghetto" was really good, but I found it to be a strange choice visually for a young grey haired white guy!
He nailed it though!
Looks like Idol 5 may be a guy, since Katherine had the weakest night...but you never know with the fanatics out there.
WOW-- really enjoyed Elvis night!
I thought Taylor, Elliott and Chris were each excellent.
Poor Katharine-- I enjoyed her little medly, I thought it was cute, but she jacked up "Can't Help Falling In Love".
I wouldn't really mind seeing an all-guy Top 3.
Well, that was the end of Idol for me. At least the person voted off tonight will get to make the kind of music that means something to them and not have to record the Pop drek that's all over Top 40 radio because of their Idol contract.
Bring back Rockstar INXS!
Wow. Did
not see that one coming...
OK, so from teh above comments I think I can guess who went but since I'm away this weekend and won't get to see it (plus our Sky box died last night so I probably wouldn't have got to see it this weekend anyways) can someone spoil me?
Scott,
The ROCKSTAR show this year will be a new band formed from other bands....Tommy Lee on drums, Jason from Metallica and a guy from Guns N Roses. I saw an ad for the auditions and considered for about a second going to try out, but realized that I could never do it.....
I *just* read at the yahoo group who was voted off and I'm totally bummed out! I don't even care who wins now.....
Thanks for the info Dean. Hadn't heard that they would do another round of Rockstar but glad they are giving it a try. I enjoyed those performances much more than most of AI. And I'm with you, I really could care less who wins AI now. Of the final three, Taylor is the only one I'd even consider buying an album of but it would have to be a great album.
Bevis:
<span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">Chris got the boot, over Kat. I don't know who was in more shock, him or her.</span></span>
Yep, as suspected. That is a bit of a surprise but I was talking to Paulette here at work about it last week and really of the final four he is the least mainstream and so was most likely to lose out simply on the basis of mass appeal rather than actual talent. I do like the ones that are left but I'm not sure I'd buy their albums. Of course that being said of the previous winners (most of whom I did really like) the only one that I'd consider buying an album of would be Fantasia, and i don't even know if her album has been released here in the UK.
Y'know I like Taylor quite a bit, but like most people, I assumed the "Elvis who left the building" this week on AI had the thing locked up.
Bah! Enough with this "not naming who got tossed" stuff...
AKA: SPOILERS!
I had Taylor pegged early on to win this thing, with Chris being his major competition, so this week's exit was a surprise for me.
I figured either Katharine would exit based on her performances Tuesday, OR that she would get her fanbase plus the "chick vote" (meaning all the people who are hot for her or just prefer female singers in general) and Elliott would get the axe.
Although I really would have liked to see a showdown between Elliott, Taylor and Chris, I simply can't be upset that Katharine is still there; she's such a living doll.
While I still think and even hope Taylor wins, I decided once we hit the top 5 that Elliott was the one who needed the win the most. Paris already had her foot in the door with Grammy-winning relatives (remember, Randy about crapped his pants at her audition when he saw her grandmother); Katharine is a stunner and no doubt will be Broadway bound; Elliott lacked both Chris' looks and Taylor's stage presence.
So I'm sorta-kinda pulling for Elliott too. Yeah, a Taylor/Elliott final battle would be cool with me.
Well, based on the votes, they were the two top vote getters last week. What's funny is to look at them, neither of then aren't the stereotypical image of a pop star.
Maybe America is playing one big joke on Simon Cowell. He never imagined anyone would vote for Taylor in a top 12 situation.
Many AI fans disparage Vote For The Worst.com, but I think that behind the (often hilarious) sarcasm and mean-spiritedness, the site's contributers make many valid points.
Taylor was/is their pick after Kellie Pickler got the boot.
Why? For the simple reason that they feel he will be a marketing nightmare for Simon.
I can somewhat agree with this. I also felt this was somewhat true of Paris (a barley-teen who specializes in torch songs?) and Katharine (Broadway as pop?). I can even see it to a lesser degree being a problem with Elliott.
With people like Kellie, Ace, Bucky and Chris, there was NO DOUBT who the target audience is. What the heck is Taylor's target audience?
That said, *IF* he wins, I think he will be a mammoth success!
Right now I'm just feeling over AI. I'd very easily believe that the producers are the ones actually choosing the winners, and eliminating people in order of who can keep the tension and drama up for compelling tv. I don't know that that's happening, of course, but if it was, I wouldn't be surprised. I also find it very hard to believe that the voting goes the way it has been shown. I can just imagine in ten years there will be a documentary telling the "Truth about American Idol," exposing how the show was really run.
I suppose I'm just annoyed because my favorite is gone. Last year, I couldn't believe that Bo lost. His performances were SO much better than Carrie's all season. Now Chris, who has been awesome all year, is gone, leaving other constestants who I don't like as much.
Maybe I'll watch next week and grow to like the others more. I mean, I've always thought Katherine was lovely, but her vocals are very inconsistent. I think Taylor's kind of a clown, but maybe he'll do something extra cool. I've always admired Elliott's voice, but thought he was goofy. He *was* awesome on Elvis night....
sigh...I like it better when my favorite(s) win.
I feel ya.
My faves NEVER win, it seems.
Season 3:
Faves: Camille Velasco & Jennifer Hudson. Camille left in 9th place and Jennifer was ousted in 7th place.
Season 4:
Faves: Nadia Turner & Bo Bice. Nadia ousted in 8th place with Bo being runner-up.
So with my leaning toward Taylor and Elliott this year, I'm willing to bet katharine will win. My 2 overall favorites this year have definitely been Taylor and Bucky.
speaking of Bo: When he performed "The real Thing" on AI this season, I was all like, "Ehh, that's alright, no big deal". but when I recently heard it on the radio, I found myself really liking it.
Someone at the yahoogroup pointed out that the number 4 spot is often taken by a major fan favorite/leading contender....
Season 1- Tamyra Gray
Season 3- Latoya London
Season 5- Chris Daughtry
Formula?
Alright, so several hours have passed, and although I still can't believe Chris is gone, I decided to go back and listen to all of Elliott's mp3s.....y'know, when just listening to him and not having to look at him, the music and the vocals are really, really good. I mean, I already knew that, but upon further inspection, the body of work is great. He has done really good songs.
Maybe I'll start fully backing Elliott now...
I had heard rumours of this but didn't know they were true.
Chris Daughtry offered job as lead singer for Fuel . I loved their Hemorrhage (In My Hands) track (one of Chris' early songs on AI) and Won't Back Down (from the Daredevil soundtrack) was a favorite too. I think Chris would be a great fit with the group.
Elliott is getting better every week and he is looking better too. That's the most important thing!
I'm backing Elliott!
Bah!
I thought Elliott was cute even BEFORE they Hollywooded him up!
re: Chris; Fuel first offered him the job after he sang "In My Hands" on AI several weeks back, and apparently are RiiiiiLLY serious about it now.
I read that the band and the former lead singer had an amicable split a while back.
I didn't even know who Fuel was until Chris sang one one their songs on AI. I'm sure there are many more like me out there, so I'm sure it could be very good for Fuel if Chris decides to do it. I mean, he could always back out if he wanted to, right?
God! Chris drew me into this season of AI...I hate that he's gone! IMO his vocals have been the best consistently in every episode I've seen. Taylor's just goofy, Cat's beautiful but very inconsistent and Elliott looks like a hobbit! Damn...what were AI fans thinking when they voted for the other three above Chris?!?!
I don't see any reason to watch the last two episodes. None of these three will have the success outside of AI that Chris will. I hope he decides to do his own thing rather than go with fuel or another established band. I'd rather he blaze his own path. And if his own band (shown in some AI crowd shots) is good enough to back him, it would be a real hosing for him to dump them.
In any case Chris...best of luck! Apparently America had no taste!
I'm done with AI.
Apparently though, I'll be getting the new Fuel CD eventually.
[countingchickens] Well, Elliott and Katharine had shining moments tonight but it's time to congratulate
our next American Idol, TAYLOR HICKS!!!!! Woo-Hooooo!
He was awesome on all three songs, "Danicing In The Dark", "You Are So Beautiful" and "Try A Little Tenderness"!
Even Simon has given in now that his only hope of defeating Taylor (Chris) was booted last week. YAY, Soul Patrol!! [/countingchickens]
Well, shoot! I missed 2/3rds of the show! I did see the last 3 performances, though, and I did think that Taylor seemed to really step up. He looks a lot better with his hair styled like that than with the straight bangs....
Elliott was good, too. So, I guess I'm hoping it's Elliott vs. Taylor in the finale.
10 mintues to showtime!
then I'm back here to SPOIL YOUR ASSES OFF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Originally posted by MLLASH:
[b]our next American Idol, TAYLOR HICKS!!!!! Woo-Hooooo![/b]
I think you got it right in one Lash. No way the other finalist is going to beat Taylor, not in an honest fight.
Well...
<span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">ELLIOTT is gone. It's gonna be Taylor vs. Katharine for the title.</span></span>
Interesting numbers, if the percentages Ryan gave were true to an even 50 million votes being cast:
16,530,000 - 3rd
16,630,000 - 2nd
16,840,000 - 1st
Yeah, it's pretty much Taylor's win.
Kinda sucks for the one voted off, those numbers are pretty close. And I would have preferred that one over the one who made it, too.
It isn't that I hate the final two (or even the final three), I just feel Chris was the best. By far he was the best out of all five seasons, to me. I've supported Taylor from the start, just because he was the odd ball and seemed to have more soul than the other two. Elliott kind of grew on me but I couldn't get past the funky looking faces he makes while singing. And Kat is good, but she should be doing Adult Contemporary or even opera, not Top 40. She'd be good in Phantom.
So, I guess I'm pulling for Taylor but it'll be Chris' albums that I buy; Fuel, solo or with a new band.
Well, last night's final performances have me all revved up for tonight's big finale!
I'm still rooting for Taylor all the way. Tried on and off for hours to vote last night and finally managed to get one vote through for him.
That "Do I Make You Proud" single will be the first AI-single I've ever bought when it is released. I'm hoping "Levon" will be the other track on it!
<span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">Well, not as good as Chris winning but I'll take it.</span></span>
spoilers
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WAS THAT NOT THE BEST FINALE EVER?!?!?!?!?!
Prince was awesome! I loved the Burt Bacharach tribute! LOVED the Brokenote Cowboys' performance! And Clay Aiken giving Michael Sendecki THE thrill of his life!
And then--
DO I MAKE YOU PROUD, DO I MAKE YOU PROOOOOUUUUDDDDD!
SOUL PATROL SOUL PATROL SOUL PATROL!!!!
What a fantastic finale! Loved hearing Bucky, Mandisa and Melissa again!
I'm actually happy for **you** Lash! And I congratulate Taylor. I wish him the best.
I wasn't as enthusiastic this year as I have been in the past.
There's always next year, I guess.
And with that I'm deflagging this thread until next season.
Aww, Kat. I guess the KAT VOTING PARTY I went to didn't help. This is the first AI that my favorite didn't win, but I can't begrudge Taylor the win. He is not my personal taste, but I realize he outperformed the rest of them, and I do sort of like the idea that AI's winner is an almost 30 year old gray haired dude. AND he does make that hunk o'crap "Do I Make You Proud" into something listenable.
I think Kat saw the handwriting on the wall, and was relieved it was about to be over--thereby turning in her best performances all season. She was great all last night. I know a lot of people hated her duet with MeatLoaf, but I enjoyed. It was as if she let loose all the drama geek theatrics she's been trying to supress all season! Yeah, she might wind up being "only" a Broadway star, but I'll definitely be supporting whatever she does in the future.
I loved the finale, too!
This is the first season that I watched the whole story from beginning to end and rooted for Taylor all the way.
Chris and the others were fun, but Taylor was just such a bright star, funny and beautifully voiced.
sigh
Too bad the tickets are 200 and 300 dollars a piece.
Shady
Alright, I have to admit that after watching the finale show on tape again, it's very easy to be a Taylor Hicks fan.
The first time I heard "Do I Make You Proud" I thought it was SO cheesy, but after listening again, it's quite sweet, and Taylor delivers it very very well.
I like Taylor a lot. Will I buy his cd? I dunno. I suppose if there are some more cool songs released as singles, it could sway me.
I don't listen to the radio very much, since I hate most of the music/commercials I hear all the time. However, while I was getting my hair cut today, I heard "Do I Make You Proud" on the radio for the first time. Yeah, it's pretty cheesy, but it really wasn't bad. I don't know if Kat's "My Destiny" could ever be listenable though--and I love her.
On the tvguide.com site, they ask Kat McPhee if she'd be interested in playing Wonder Woman!
The "Do I Make You Proud/Takin' It To The Streets" cd single is slated for release 6/13.
But I think I'm going to wait and just get Taylor's full album release. "Takin' it To..." is on the AI5 cd which I am already going to get anyway.
And "DO I MAKE YOU PROUD" is set to debut
AT NUMBER ONE on the singles chart tomorrow! SOUL PATROL!!
Hey, thought I'd dust off the good ol' Idol thread and mention that I've been TiVo'ing Americand Idol REWIND. They've gone back to the first season and are showing highlights. They're already onto the Hollywood rounds, meaning they've already shown all the audition madness.
They play current interviews of the cast talking about what it was like back then. Kinda cool.
The thing I like to see is how everyone looked and sounded before the actual weekly series began, with all the stylists at play, etc.
Young Kelly Clarkson looked kinda cute, but very... shall we say.... blank canvas. I had never heard her first audition before. She did Madonna's "Express Yourself." She sounded good, but she did flub a lyric or two! In Hollywood, she was one of only a few who did well in the "Trio" audition. Obviously, she made it.
Justin Guarini looks the same now as he did back then. His grooming has always been the same. I think he had a haircut after AI, but the curls seem to be back again. He always did well on that show. I recall that it was a very close vote for the winner.
I look forward to the rest of the episodes being replayed (re-wound?). I've patched together a bunch of the performances, via the net, but I didn't really start watching Season 1 until the very end. I remember that Kelly and Tamyra were always awesome! I think you either like or don't like Justin. He's a tad cheesy. The others seem to have faded...
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Well, I certainly did enjoy tonight's Barry Manilow episode 1000 times more than I thought I would!
Enough chitchat-- here's my rundown from best to NOT the best!
1. JENNIFER; As far as I'm concerned, the best of the Divas Three. Loved her since she sang "Imagine". I think she can sing anything well!
So, the young lady who was sent home on AI after a mind-staggeringly fantastic version of "Weekend in New England" is now winning raves (and acting award nominations) for DREAMGIRLS, and the album just skyrocketed up to # 3 on BILLBOARD. Does my heart good to see this.
Other AI album news:
Chrtis Daughtry's album has already gone platinum, and Taylor Hicks' is plummeting like a rock already.
I bought Chris album already. Not too bad. At little sameness on the tracks but for a rushed first effort I thought it was good. Didn't bother with Taylor's.
More J-Hud/DREAMGIRLS news!
PEOPLE magazine says "(J-Hud) sings her heart out" and "steals every scene she appears in".
E-WEEKLY calls the Jen's DREAMGIRLS soundtrack performances a "calling card announcing the arrival of a new superstar".
Jen also appears on the cover of the current US magazine-- 60 pounds lighter. Holy Hubba-Hubba! My crush on Jen just elevated to diva-love!
Poor Beyonce, losing all the attention to Jennifer! *secretly snickering about it!*
I was so happy to hear all the rave reviews for Jennifer! When I saw the movie, I was just in awe the whole time. Loved it! Her version of "And I am Telling You I'm Not Leaving" is amazing, but ALL of her performances are. She's a very good actress, too.
However, I must stand up for my girl, Beyonce. She gives SO much star power and is SO glamorous and beautiful as well as talented. She wrote the new song, "Listen" which I cannot get out of my head, and she'll get a ton of awards for it.
Jen and B both shine. It's the other girl, who's cute and funny in the movie, who gets overshadowed. Actually, there's a fourth girl, too, but she gets even less of the spotlight.
Eddie Murphy deserves all the praise he's receiving, too. He plays a very James Brown-like character, and the whole time I wanted him to do his "Hot Tub" song from his SNL days! Jamie Foxx plays it straight and solid.
A great cast and great performances. I haven't grabbed the soundtrack cd yet, but I will. I'll certainly be buying the dvd later on.
(I had meant to start a Dream Girls thread.... maybe I still will.)
Oh, a couple of weeks ago, I saw Fantasia perform on the Tyra Banks show. She was very Fantasia, so if you're a fan (like me) you'd love it! The song was funky, but I'm afraid not too memorable, as I cannot think of the title now.
Bump because the new season's beginning! I've set my TiVo!
Well, the season premiere was just what we expect from Idol.... lots of deluded people who just can't believe it when they're rejected. They even had an uncannily familiar "REJECTED" graphic that they used for a while.
They had a couple interesting stories of people who tried out. Can't wait to see how they do in Hollywood. Former Crack Baby, Navy Man, Auto Mechanic Girl Whose Husband is in the War, etc.
Tomorrow night...the freaks from my city! Can't wait!
Dean,
I felt they spent too much time on the Rejects. This is the part of the competition I don't really care for. You know these poor fools only make it through to the judges to be camera fodder for the show... I definitely prefer to see how many make it in, not how many were rejected. I believe we only saw 3 people in the first hour make it to the Hollywood round. I guess I'll have to skip watching until we get to the next level. I feel badly for the people who think they can sing, but are slapped silly four ways to Sunday and left crushed.
I actually agree. I'd prefer it if there was just maybe a little bit of the silly or weird/wacky stuff and more time spent on showing the good talent. I'd even further prefer to get right to the competition, and skip all this stuff, however, it seems like the show is built upon it.
I was watching AI Rewind, and it seemed that Simon didn't like Kelly Clarkson at ALL at first! Shows how the actual competition and styling can turn things around.
I was really hoping they would change the format this year and focus on the ones that were put through to Hollywood. Guess that ain't happening. I'm with Craig. I may wait until they get the wannabes to Hollywood before I keep watching. If they want to focus on the rejects they really should just do it in a special.
As long as those ratings are there, the format isn't likely to change I'll bet.
Last night's favorites: Shakira-wannabe, zit-nose 16 y/o boy and Sarah ("Over the Rainbow").
Breaking news from
Variety :
Fox phenom "American Idol" opened to boffo numbers Tuesday night, with the two-hour premiere ranking as the second highest-rated episode of the series to date -- and easily topping any primetime program this season.
According to preliminary nationals from Nielsen, the opening night of auditions on "American Idol" averaged a 15.7 rating/36 share in adults 18-49 and 37.3 million viewers overall, up about 5% vs. its premiere of one year ago. The only other "Idol" telecast to rate higher was the May 2003 season finale between Reuben Studdard and Clay Aiken.
This is the first time I've watched the audition rounds (I usually wait for the top 15 or so) and I must say, I suspect many of the rejected applicants have characteristics and abilities to become a Legion of Super Idol-Villains! Swearing Juggling Kid (tap dancer too)! #1EX-Fan Girl (gothy)! Sing To Myself Lass (with a neck tie!)! Disgruntled Vocal Coach Lad (with atomic pitch whistle)! I can't wait for when they attack the contestants that made it through!
![[Linked Image]](http://www.kevinandrewleung.com/legion/Legion_LegionworldIdol.jpg)
Heh!
Tonight was a good one for fans of the bad stuff....
my faves:
"3rd time's the charm" Afro-Lad, despite his cockiness, because I like that someone can *finally* click with the right look and song and make it through.
Indian brother & Sister-- so sweet and genuine. i think they are going to be fast favorites of the viewers.
Beat-Box Blake... he was awesome!
Big Blonde Delusional Lass, Kid Creepy Zitzman, Grotesque Lips Lass, and Big-Lisp Lad & Popeyed-Monkey Kid were favorite bad performers!
(and surely Dean would have given me a "YES" vote at my audition!)
Hmmmm.... if Scott's Simon and MEL is Randy, I guess that makes me Paula! That's fine! Of course I'd send you to Hollywood, Lash! MEL, that toon is awesome! I forgot about it.
Hmm... I actually don't have much to say about this episode. I'm already tired of watching bad auditions.
So what's your tryout number, Lashie?
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
Hmm... I actually don't have much to say about this episode. I'm already tired of watching bad auditions.
I already talked about the bad auditions but I just had to add that it is at the point already where I can't really tell you who I liked because of the mind-numbingly overwhelming time spent on the bad ones. Even me, being basically tone deaf, wouldn't make someone like the red head kid last night keep going for longer than a regular contestant gets during the competition. It is borderline ludicrous. The only way to tell the good from the bad right now is the good get about five seconds of a song while the bad get five minutes.
Originally posted by Pov:
So what's your tryout number, Lashie? Unfortunately, I'm way too old for the tryout-- or else I very well might have done it!
I might have won too-- because unlike those deludanoids on AI, my family and friends NEVER tell me how good I am!
I've auditioned for singing competitions before, so I know what the auditioners are going through. At this point, I'm not interested in doing it anymore. I'll just stick with karaoke.
Every new season of AI, though, I do kinda practice a lil more. That rockstar dream is settled somewhere in the back of my head....
Oh, btw, my friends think I'm good at karaoke.
My wife (who's had choir training) thinks I'm good but I need training.
My kids just think I'm loud.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Originally posted by Pov:
[b]So what's your tryout number, Lashie?
I beg to differ...
I
my Lashaoke/Lucida mix tape.
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
My kids just think I'm loud.
I'm sure you wouldn't've embarrassed yourself, Dean-O.
Did they say there were only about 20 that made it from Memphis?
I have one word:
SUNDANCE!
I'm already a fan!
Also, I really liked Backup Singer Girl. Out of everyone we've seen so far, those two are my favorites.
It's going to be a real mixed bag in Hollywood.
I loved Sundance Head too. My favorite so far. In addition to Backup Singer Girl I also liked the guy who looked like Fidel Castro. I'm glad they let him continue on.
I wonder if he'll shave/get a haircut?
Y'know, I always wonder how they decide which *good* auditions to show. In a way, it gives those people an advantage if they make it through the Hollywood rounds. Just because there's already something of a fan base.
I mean, I already want Sundance to win!
Well, it seems there was plenty of talent in New York, so we'll see how everyone does in Hollywood. The only problem is, it seems we won't be done with audtions yet. Oh well, maybe there'll be some interesting entertainment....
Query: Did they abolish the 28 cutoff age? Because one of the auditioners from NY was clearly labelled as age 47 (he was the man who 'sang' "New York, New York").
Does anyone own Daughtry's album? Is it worth the money?
Originally posted by LARDLAD:
Does anyone own Daughtry's album? Is it worth the money?
For me it was worth it Lardy. If you like Nickelback and similar bands, Daughtry is a good first effort. Better than previous Idols, but that's just a personal music preference.
Lash, I noticed they let some older people audition, too. I also noticed that they're usually "novelty" auditions and never very good.
Sundance still stands as my favorite, even though they have shown some very interesting good singers. As I said before, it seems like there will be a very mixed bag in Hollywood. Of course, I'm always very easily impressed by a pretty lady who can sing, so I look forward to the competition.
I skipped last night, only saw the last 5 minutes or so. From Randy and Simon's reaction to the last contestant, I hadn't missed much in the way of real talent.
I did mention that Daughtry's album has gone platinum and remains in the top 10 while Taylor debut and Fantasia's sophomore album are out of the top 50, didn't I?
Manwhile, Carrie Underwood's cd has gone 5x platinum and remains in the top 20. Looks like Simon's prediction about her selling more albums than any other Idol winner might have been spot-on.
re: last night;
ENOUGH with the over-age nonsense auditions. Are these people wanting to embarrass themselves? I am referring specifically to Margaret, the big 50-year-old lady in the canary yellow. WHY?!?!
Well, the old guy in Wednesday night's audition was worth letting them (the elders) continue. I was BALLING along with Paula! (His wife was on her deathbed as he put together a petition to let him on the show.He said it kept her in a positive state of mind. Sigh...) Aw, I was tired and my wife's outta town. I'm sensitive.
I really liked Anastasia's and X-tina's former back up singer! I wanna see him versus Sundance!
Looks like next week, I'll get to see a real purty girl from Texas sing it! I love that.
The judges are just kooky nowadays. Absolute power and all....
I'm sensitive too, Dean... the 60ish guy who sang to his departed lady brought a tear to my eye as well. And... his singing voice was lovely. I thought Simon and the judges handled him with pure class.
Less classless was the way they handled poor confused Eric (the guy who had trained using Paula & Randy's DVD) at the end... but I had to admit that was hilARious!
Originally posted by Lightning Lad:
Originally posted by LARDLAD:
[b]Does anyone own Daughtry's album? Is it worth the money?
Lotta gems on the album, or just 3 or 4 good songs? Do they show off Chris's range?
Originally posted by LARDLAD:
Originally posted by Lightning Lad:
[b]
Originally posted by LARDLAD:
[b]Does anyone own Daughtry's album? Is it worth the money?
For me it was worth it Lardy. If you like Nickelback and similar bands, Daughtry is a good first effort. Better than previous Idols, but that's just a personal music preference. [/b]
I'd say it gives a fair accounting of Chris' talent. It could have used some more polish. The one complaint I have with it is the sameness of the songs though, instrumentally. I will say it is good to hear this type of music, rock but not heavy or too light, with a singer that you can understand every lyric. Too many mumble their way through nowadays.
This is done with, from what I've heard, studio musicians. And the next album is supposed to have the "real" band. But I had no problem with giving iTunes my ten bucks. Especially since they offered a bonus track not on the CD or available from other electronic sources. Same reason I bought Evanescence's new album from them.
At the AI website, they have a video of Chris singing the national anthem. He does a very good job, adding some of his characteristic intonations. His ending wasn't crisp, but it wasn't bad, either.
Pretty mellow auditions in San Antonio. No real drama, which was fine. The purty blonde lady is actually a girl of 16. Oh well. She's very cute.
Just a side comment real quick... I just don't care for Katherine McPhee. I don't have the McPheever. She's definitely beautiful, but I'm not interested in her at all. I don't know why. I even saw her on the Tonight Show a bit ago. Weird.
bailey brown, awwwwwwwwwww, aint she a sweetie. But i found the one singing Black Velvet was just unbelievable, like simon, i never undrstood a word she sang. The girl who was so "shy" turned out to be not so shy at the end of her sad audition, these people deserved to be humiliated.
Oh, I was totally surprised that they let Weird Faces Girl come back and try again. I've never seen that before. She really does distort her beautiful face in bizarre ways when she sings. I hope she can get it together before the Hollywood rounds.
AMERICAN IDOL REWIND is back. Last weekend, they showed ten of the semi-finalists do their performances. Tamyra Gray and Ryan Starr and Jim Verrero were in that group. It was a really goood group overall! A couple of the guys, in particular, would have been great on the show. I think next week they'll show Kelly Clarkson's and Justin Guarini's group. Should be good! (I'm very pleased to be seeing season 1 now.)
I've been following AI REWIND off-and-onnish; it IS fun to watch!
Yeah, Second-Chance Girl last night-- Simon must have REALLY wanted her badly, she has to be a AI first.
GO Lip-Piercing Lass! I also liked the Roller Skater Girls.
Tonight was a nice end to the audition episodes; it seemed to me tonight they focused more on the good auditions than the bad.
I'm geared up for HOLLYWOOD next week--- the tears are going to flow like rain!
Wasn't there another episode tonight? My DVR didn't record one so I'm thinking it conflicted with Lost or Knights of Prosperity.
Wednesday night's show was a "round up" of auditions.
Yeah, that Ebony with the roller skaters was so beautiful and can SANG!
Hollywood is going to be really interesting because they're making it seem like it's going to be tougher than ever. I noticed in the preview that my man Sundance said something like, "I better do something right or I'll be outta here!"
I have high hopes for this season because I didn't feel very connected to last season.
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
I have high hopes for this season because I didn't feel very connected to last season.
I'm just a little opposite of that. Last year was the first year I really connected with one of the singers. I loved Bo but he was more like the 70's Country/Rock I grew up with and not the music I like now. But Chris was perfect. I'm hoping that Sundance or someone else hits that same note with me.
That's really cool, Scott. I'm happy for Daughtry's success, too. I liked his performances a lot, last season. He and Mandisa and Elliott were my favorites. I just wasn't into Taylor or Katherine. In previous seasons, I've been able to follow my faves into the top two, so last year was a let down for me.
Carrie won a couple of grammies last night! I just read an article at yahoo about how the show keeps churning out artists who are actually succeeding in the music industry, getting nominations and awards. I knew it all along!
Looking forward to tomorrow night!
Oh, over at Rewind, Kelly, Justin and AJ just earned their spots in season 1's top ten! Boy, there was a lot of good competition back then, too!
They narrowed 170something down to 40! Sundance is still there, but cute Bailey Brown is gone!
I'll watch it again for more details, but wow, Hollywood seemed tough!
I'm really surprised Sundance is still around. Thanks to Paula he made it. His performance wasn't the best on either day.
I'm pleased, though, that Chris made it through. They funny, curly headed, heavy set kid. He's become a real favorite.
Yeah I'm kind of surprised Sundance is still around too. Dude better learn some humility, and toute suite. America doesn't like a show-off
.
Did Ebony make it? Bailey blew it, her age was definitely showing,her attitiude was wayy too cavalier.
I agree that Sundance is lucky. They're letting him through on his potential rather than what he showed in Hollywood. I hope he makes the next cut.
I never saw beautiful Ebony or that spunky young New York girl who's supposed to be studying opera. I wonder if they couldn't make it for some reason or if they just never got filmed?
Looking forward to tonight! They'll identify the top 24.
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
I just read an article at yahoo about how the show keeps churning out artists who are actually succeeding in the music industry, getting nominations and awards.
They were wise to have the phone polls, I think. It's a decent, if not comprehensive, way to see who is coming across well to the public.
The top 24 have been chosen. I think it's kinda weird that the majority of the girls chosen haven't really been shown very much before. Well, maybe just not that I recall.... My favorite is *Former* Back Up Singer girl. (I'm sure I'll get better with names with time.)
The guys seem to have a bit more character. I was glad Sundance made it, but I hope he quits that shout singing! I was glad that Jack Osbourne Look Alike made it, too!
I'll have to go to the AI website now, and check out the profiles!
This week has been reallllly good... I half-expected them to drag out H'Wood week for 4 episodes, but it all came down fast and furious! Good call!
My most early-favorite chick, Lip-Ring Lass, didn't make top 24! So I'm going to root for Backup-Singer Damsel and Funny-Hair Lass who also auditioned last year.
The guys DO seem to have a lot of personality. I was rooting for the other guy to make it over Sundance. He was super-cute!
Early favorite guys include Jack Osbourne's Clone (he's freakin' hilARious!!) and beat-boxin' Blake. They had an AWESOME group round. I also like that hottie who dropped out last year and Just-Had-A-Baby Lad!
I'm really looking forward to next week-- I hope a few more of the girls stand out for me!
The AI website is up to date with this season's contestant profiles. So helpful!
Couldn't help myself... I had to count up how many contestants came from each city... See, Simon said that Seattle had some of the worst talent ever...
Memphis has 6 contestants
Seattle, LA and NY each have 5
San Antonio, Minneapolis and Birmingham each have 1.
So, actually, Seattle's talent ended up doing pretty well. Did ya realize that, Simon?
(Disclaimer... not every contestant is from the town where they auditioned. I'm not trying to say I'm any kind of brainiac, here! Just a fan of singers.)
Just watched Rewind... Christina Christian, EJ Day and Nikki McKibbin just earned their spots. This was the episode where Simon was calling people losers and Randy wanted to fight him!
So, the top 9 are set. Next week, it's the judges' Wild Card pick. (They're going to choose RJ Helton. Hey, it was 5 years ago!)
They used to choose the finalists so differently back then. I like it better now.
So my roommate is a rabid Idol fanatic and forces us to watch it every week.
I've watched episodes here and there in previous seasons and have always quite enjoyed it so I was looking forward to getting into a season from the beginning and finding some faves to cheer on to the end.
I was especially looking forward to tonight because I usually prefer male solo singers to female ones and thought that out of 12 I would find at least 5 or 6 that I would really like.
My reaction to tonight - UGH! Send them all back! Those are the best guys they could find?!? There wasn't a single good performance among them. Sure, some were better than others but there was not a single voice or presence on stage that was anything close to unique or interesting.
And their song choices were B-A-A-A-D! It's opening night - they should've been there bringing the PAR-TAY and rocking us. But nearly every one of them bored with some weepy ballad that felt dated 15 years ago. You could tell the judges were disappointed. That weird angry vibe they were giving off seemed more directed at themselves for slipping up and letting these losers through.
My reluctant choice for the best of the worst - Blake, who stayed contemporary with a Keane song and showed us he can more than just beat-box despite a few pitch problems.
Hope the girls are better or I'm gonna be done with American Idol before I've even had the chance to join in on all the fun.
Well, I have to admit that I was hoping for a better show than what was presented.
My favorite way of commenting on the performances is to go from worst to best...
12. Rudy. I never cared for that song and I don't think it fits at AI. His delivery really wasn't all that bad, but like Randy said, it was a corny performance.
11. Paul Kim. Okay, I like that he wanted to be barefoot, but he didn't do anything with that song.
So, those would be my choices for elimination.
10.Sanjaya. I didn't think it was as bad as the judges made it seem, but it was rather dull.
9. Sundance. Of course I'm very disappointed because I really like him. I thought he was gonna really make that song awesome, but he was off most of the way through it!
8.Jared. I didn't even remember him, so when he was up there, I had no idea what would happen. He seemed to be pretty good.
7.Nicholas. He sounded fine, but the song was so dull. Doesn't he want to be a star?
6.Phil. He really started off bad but he did improve through the song.
5. AJ. He was fun and sounded good. A tad safe.
4. Chris Sligh. I liked this performance a lot. He has charisma and a good voice. I think the judges (particularly Simon) will change their minds when they hear this again.
3.Brandon. At first, I thought it was going to be a cool slow version of Rock With You, which I was excited about, but then it turned into the typical version. Still, well done.
2. Chris R. He really did bring some attitude and appeal to his song (which I love! Bo and Elliott have done it in previous seasons). He's cool.
1. BLAKE!!! I love that Keane song! I thought Blake did an excellent job. I was SO glad there was no beat-boxing. He gets points for difficulty too, because even though he might have missed a note here and there, he showed a lot of range and made some very difficult transitions! He looked great, too!
Summary: My top three really showed some star quality. My previous favorite, Sundance, really disappointed me.
Looking forward to ladies' night!
OMG, you CAN NOT get Sundance off my screen fast enough! <shudder>
I too was disappointed. Hated AJ, mostly cause he looked like crap, he was dressed like he was going to a frat party. COme on, you go on national television and THAT'S what you wear to represent yourself, ugh. Paul Kim made me wretch too. Rudy seemed like a real-live version o "jack McFaland" kept waiting for the jazz hansd to break out with a "just Jack".
Blake is my fave, and I loves me some Keane, but I couldn't beliee how positive the feedback was, dude was missing those high notes all over the place.
Liked Chris R, but though Simon was totally on w/his comment about his voice sounding small on the song. I think a lot of it had to do with his bopping his head up and down and thus losing the mike because his voice was moving away from it every 3 seconds.
Phil's first 15 seconds were horrid, song was completelly unrecognizable until he hit the chorus, then he hit his stride and finished really strong.
Really liked Chris Sligh, was surprised he didn't get better feedback. Thought Sanjaya was boring but didn't sound as bad as they made it sound.
What an overall suckfest last night was!
The first six guys left me nothing but disappointed.
Then Blake-- whom I had high hopes for-- was the first to actually wow me.
Sanjaya fell short (though they were WAY too overly harsh on him because they know he might cry).
Chris Sligh was good but then he lost me with his smartass "teletubbies" dig toward Simon.
I thought Jared (tall guy who sang "Back to One" was really good.
AJ bored me, but Phil wrapped it up nicely enough.
So basically out of all 12, I only liked Blake, Jared and Phil. Chris Sligh too, if he will refrain from further smartass cracks (no pun intended).
Just read everyone's comments... Blake looks like our unanimous early favorite. Cool.
I think it's funny how similar our comments are, too. At this point, I almost don't think I should number them from 12 to 1, I should have more grey areas like: Yuck, Okay, Good, Great.
WOW!
It's pretty obvious the ladies are the more talented bunch. This may have been the best ep of AI I've seen yet.
I can't even find 2 picks to go home Thursday. I can, however, pick out one... the unfortunate lass who chose "Brass In Pocket" to sing.
Favorites:
Stephanie (1st performer), Leslie Hunt (..."Natural Woman") 'cause she's geeky, Jordin Sparks, Melinda Doolittle, Gina Glocksen (though, like Chris Sligh, she'd better watch that smarty-pants mouth) and Lakisha.
And even though I was prepared to HATE that Jersey chick (I thought it was a crime she went through to top 24 instead of the other chick she was against), I rather liked her sweet rendition of "I Don't Wanna Miss A Thing". I found it endearing. The judges hated it. Oh, well.
Insanely early prediction: The finale will be between 2 lasses this year as male frontrunner Blake exits in 3rd place.
I missed all but the last 3, but luckily I taped it, so looking forward to reviewing it, but in those last 3 I saw the best, the good, and the ehhh. Lakisha brought down the house, Simon obviously adores her and with good reason, she's got it all, I heart her.
My only concern is that Simon may be jinxing her. So many like to go against him just because he is so disliked... I swear that's why Paula was telling him to be quiet. I actually think the reason that he was so harsh on Sanjaya the other night was because he actually does like him and was try to get him the "spite" vote.
Well add more once I see the other 9, but it almost seems like a waste of my time given how it ended. If nothing else, it'll be anti-climatic.
Some AI album news:
Upon checking out BILLBOARD, I noted that Taylor's CD, despite it's low current ranking and quick drop on the chart, has been certified platinum. Kellie Pickler's CD (actually currently ranked a few notches higher than Taylor's; both are in the 80s) has been certified gold.
Chris' CD (which I told you ages ago went platinum, like, overnight) is still rocking the # 3 slot.
And coming in March: Elliott's 1st CD!
I wasn't really that excited about the girls tonight. Still though, I thought Lakisha really 'knocked one out of the park' to end the show.
I'm in agreement with the opinion that a lot of the contestants this week played it safe and did songs they knew they could cover with ease even if they had a severe attack of stage fright. A few risked it and went all out and it showed in their performances.
Randy sure had a lot to say about that in both shows this week...and I wind up agreeing with Simon a lot more often than not...much to my surprise.
The girls were *FAR* better than the guys tonight! Some really great singers in that bunch. I wouldn't be surprised if the Top 3 are all girls this year.
The girl who opened the show, Stephanie, and the girl who closed it, Lakisha, were the best singers but I also really liked Melinda, Sabrina, Jordin, Haley and Leslie who has got this adorably endearing cute/nerdy thing going on, most exemplified by that totally bizarro/whacked-out/bat-tusi style dance she was doing in that montage of Top 12 girls dancing that they've showed a couple of times. She's such a goof. I heart her!
Without doing the math, I'd say that about half the time I was kinda cringing along with the girls and the other half of the time I was thrilled! That's a lot better than the guys, for sure. Even though I like my hot, warm and cold idea for judging, I think I'll stick with bottom to top...
12. Antonella. She did seem really, really nervous. I think she should have done that song really sweetly and whispery. Also, why did she wear that Mom outfit with the ponytail? She needs to be using her looks, especially now in the early stages of voting.
11. Alaina had really pretty hair.
10. Amy. Boring. Sweet. Boring.
9. Haley. Seemed like a beauty pageant performance. I agree with Simon about her, she seemed 40, not 24. You can be young and sing Celine songs and not be Celine's age.
8. Gina. She did fine, but I can't help but recall the stunning version of that song by Latoya London in season 3. Latoya made it more soulful (by nature). Gina played it straight. I think she did hit the note.
7. Nicole. It was weird and not very catchy, but her voice was clean and clear.
6. I like how Leslie seemed to embrace the fact that she's this skinny white girl in a gang of stong black women! She held her own by being herself with an Aretha Franklin song. Ballsy!
5. Jordan. She was sweet, but powerful. Great combo. I think she could have been stronger all along. I think she was trying to make the first half of the song tender and the second half have the POW! She's still awesome, especially for 17!
4. Stephanie. I love how she just stepped out there and gave it! Way better than I expected.
3. Sabrina. Another surprise! I don't think she's been given much screen time yet, so I can't recall much of her, so I was open to hear/see what she had to offer, and it was great! She really impressed me.
2. Lakisha. She did a phenomonal job with that song, so she deserves all the praise she got. She's got an *adorable* personality, too. Lovely!
1. Melinda. I've liked her since her audition and this performance just totally reinforced that. She delivered SO well, and the reason she takes my #1 spot is because I don't know that song. She's introduced it to me. I love it when I learn a new song on this show. It's happened a LOT, actually.
Well, I feel like it's ON. Those girls will be *bringing* it! Should be fun. Hey, maybe the guys'll step up now!
SPOILER ALERT!
I'll be discussing the eliminated contestants...
Looks like I called it as far as the guys go. It was a surprise that Sanjaya was in the top 4 guys, but like I said in my review, I didn't think he was *that* bad, just a lil dull. I bet a lot of younger girls think he's cute. I bet a lot of younger girls take the time to make a lot of calls.
As for the women, there was no surprise there, either. Amy and Nicole this week, Antonella and Alaina next week. Whatever! I really wonder which six will remain, because if it's different than the top six in my review, I'll be disappointed! Oh well, we'll see.
Fantasia sounded SO great! Broadway! That'll be cool.
The group number was SO corny! eeww!
We haven't seen one episode yet this week. Too many scheduling conflicts. And if they continue attempting to show this against Survivor and Earl/The Office on Thursdays it'll lose me. Why drag this out a third night? Fox is just being greedy.
I think it'll only be on Thursdays until the top 12 are identified. That's still a couple of weeks from now!
Yes, 2 more weeks of AI thrice a week.
I for one was not disappointed or surprised by any of the eliminations. I was surprised (but glad) Antonella DIDN'T get the boot after the thrashing the judges gave her.
Oh Antonella (nasty, nasty personality and an awful performance this week) so deserved to get the boot. She's one of the only girls that i really don't think deserves to be there.
Early favourites for me (which probably means they'll get the boot early) are Lakisha, Melinda, Leslie and big Chris.
Quite happy with all the eliminations too. Breathed a sigh of relief when Leslie made it through!
Alaina, Antonella, Sundance and... Nick, Phil or AJ to go next hopefully.
I'm voting my fingers off for Leslie as long as she lasts.
Top Ten Guys!
Hey, in general, I'd say they stepped up a notch.
10. Sanjaya. He sings well enough, he's just dull.
9. Phil. He sings well enough, he's just dull.
8. Jared. H s w e, h j d.
7. A.J. I really liked the song he sang, and he did it well, but I think someone better could do it better. Um, what is that song? "Dragonfly"? Who's it by?
6. Nick. I like his voice and I love "Fever" but I felt like there were better performances this week.
5. Chris S. The first time I ever heard that song was by Taylor last season. I like it a lot. I think Chris did a great job with it.
4. Brandon. I like the minimal arrangement on that song. He could have done a little more with it, but I liked the sentimental delivery.
3. Sundance. Yay! He's back! He sounded really good on an appropriate song.
2. Chris R. He's very consistent. Very entertaining.
1. Blake (again, in first!). He gets points for difficulty, first of all. He was confident and fun. His beat-boxing and scat fit in perfectly, and didn't overstay their welcome. I'm a fan!
Oh, about the elimination. I actually don't think my bottom 2 will be eliminated. I think Jared and AJ will be. We'll see, though!
Blake and Chris R are my favorites for the guys. I havent paid attention to the ladies much...
I must be totally watching another program because I love Blake, he's by far my favorite, but I thought other than the scat/beatbox thing, his performance was terrible, totally off key, he seems to be singing under the note, never letting it fully evolve. I thought his performance last week was also lackluster, albeit pretty. Again, I WANT him to do well and keep trying to will his performance to be great, but I'm not hearing it, AT ALL.
(And I totally want him and Ryan to hook up, lol)
I love some of these guys, but other than maybe Chris S. I don't think any of them should even be on the same stage as most of the women.
Sorry Bubbles, Blake was also, once again, my favorite guy of the night! Like Dean, I'm a fan.
Judging from the clips of Blake in action on YOUTube, he's no novice either. He's been at this for a minute.
And everyone's heard about Antonella's nude-photos scandal, right?
I wouldn't put it past that bitchy friend of hers (the one that got booted in H'Wood and refused to help blonde-country lass Bailey prepare for group round) to have leaked those!!
Hmmm... what do I think about this Antonella story?
Well, my first reaction was to wonder if it got her kicked off the show. Next...OMG, I wanna see those pictures! Next, shame and guilt. Next, she wasn't that good a singer anyway.
As for Blake, I'm sure that I *am* willing his performances to be greater in my mind than they are. He's giving me the old razzle-dazzle!
Only a bit more than 4 hours til the ladies sing again!
OH MY FREAKIN' GAWD!!! Another good ladies night.
It's ALL about Melinda Dolittle. Loved, loved LOVED her... cried all the way through! I adore the song "My Funny Valentine" and I have never heard it sound better than this. She's SO sweet, I just love her.
Jordin also teared me up, singing "Reflection".
The judges piss me OFF not giving Leslie the credit she deserves!!!
Gina did well again.
Cracks are starting to show in the armour of the judges' early, over-pimped favorite Lakisha.
Stephanie and Sabrina weren't as good as last week.
The judges dogged out Antonella and Haley, both of whom I liked.
Antonella is so AMAZINGLY beautiful it almost hurts me to look at her. Obviously the pictures were some kind of fake or not to scandalous after all, AI has obviously kept her around.
Alaina proved that she should have went home LAST week and the chick who sang "I Can't Make You Love Me" should have stayed.
Good show overall!!
After watching the guys again, my favorites were Blake, Chris S., Phil, Jared, Brandon and the OTHER Chirs-- despite that weird jerking he does!
I'll have to record tomorrow, as I'll be late getting off work!
Melinda TOTALLY rocks! I ABSOLUTELY ADORE HER! I still think Lakisha is the frontrunner,which unfortunately means she won't win. I think the next American Idol will be Jordin. She's great w/o being the obvious choice, so she'll never be the obvious choice to pick off.
I have 40 more minutes to wait! I'll be recording Top Model on the computer while I watch AI on the TiVo! Wednesdays are gonna be complicated!
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
I have 40 more minutes to wait! I'll be recording Top Model on the computer while I watch AI on the TiVo! Wednesdays are gonna be complicated!
Tru dat! I had to keep flipping back and forth between the two!
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
I have 40 more minutes to wait! I'll be recording Top Model on the computer while I watch AI on the TiVo! Wednesdays are gonna be complicated!
Sounds like my Mondays with Heroes, 24 and Two and a Half Men.
ok finally watched the guys tonight
1) Phil - I agree, he sings well, but he is lacking something. I'm not sure what it is, but he doesn't feel like a celebrity in the making.
2) Jared - For a Marvin Gaye song, I felt absolutely nothing sexual or sensual about it and that's the emotion that should be evoked. Not my cup of tea. The girls really seemed to like it though.
3) AJ - Wow, no excitement from him either. Again, he's good, just not celebrity material IMO. Good song I guess, but why aren't these guys showing off more? But the judges all liked him, so what do I know?
4) Sanjaya - dull, dull dull... enough said. And was it me or was he off in the end?
5) Chris S. - First off, let me say I love his personality. Second, his voice is amazing. I think this week, he played it a bit safe. I guess I just want a bit more... risk. He deserves to move forward and he's the first one tonight I can say that about.
6) Nick - I love this song, but I felt that such a well known song should have something original that makes it stand out. I did like the way he ended it, but still kinda just blah. He deserves to move onward as well.
7)Blake - I have adored him since the auditions and I think he is the most original of all the men. I can't say enough good about him. He's my favorite as of now. He rocks!!!!!
8) Brandon - Wow, a Cyndi song. He gets props for that, even if I thought he took away everything that was great about the orignal song and watered it down a bit too much. But his voice is good and he should move onward.
9) Chris R - We got movement!!!!! Something else else that was lacking all night except for Blake. He has charisma, he has the voice and he's a very close second to Blake for me.
10) Sundance - I want to like him. I really really think he has an underdog quality to him, and I like him alot. After this week, he moves to third for me.
Hmmm after going back through the posts, I see that Sketch and I pretty much agree especially with the top 3. I would put Chris S above Brandon though.
And now, the ladies...
1) Gina - I have liked her since the beginning, theres something original about her. I love her voice and she looked really good tonight. One thing I like about her song choice, it shows off slow and pretty and moves into a heavy rock song. I like her alot...
2) Alaina - Not a fan - the vocals seemed weak to me, and to compensate for her voice, she tried to oversing it. Overdone. I think she should go home. She's pretty, Ill give her that.
3) Lakisha - Hmmm. Having missed her audition and missing the ladies last week, this was my first encounter with Lakisha. She's good, I suppose, but I didn't feel like it was anything special. I think she'll move forward, but I'm not totally impressed. I agree with Simon about the outfit.
4) Melinda - What a voice! Great personality. I think she will go far, just maybe not as an Idol winner. I see her more as a Broadway singer with several Tony's under her belt before all is said and done. I love her and she will go far, but I don't think she will be the next American Idol.
5) Antonella - I agree with Lash, she's beautiful. She had some trouble with the song, it sounded off. I don't know what to make of her, really. I didn't think she was as bad as the judges indicated either. But I don't think she's as good as some of the others on here.
6) Jordin - Very "breezy" in the beginning, but she rebounded and I thought she ended up doing a fabulous job, I like her alot. If she's only seventeen, she's gonna go far. She should move onward.
7) Stephanie - I get the feeling this is supposed to be a song that "pops" when it's sang well. It didn't "pop" for me tonight, and I just thought she was ok. But she doesn't jump out at me at all. But again, the judges are liking her.
8) Leslie - I like her voice alot! The outfit didn't go with the performance but that is a minor distraction and I think she is definately good enough to go forward. Back to her voice, it feels hypnotic to me. I enjoyed it.
9) Haley - What is she trying to be? Queen of the Night? or Barbie Lite? I don't understand her and to me, she's nothing spectacular. But yes, she was having fun and it showed. I reserve my judgement but I fear she may not be back.
10) Sabrina - I didn't think the vocals were all that great for her, but the judges loved her. But when there are so many other, stronger performers, she's going to have an early exit, I think.
For me the top three are Jordin, Melinda and Gina in no particular order. But I see other things in Melinda's future, like I said above.
From worst to best...
10. Haley. I always give her a chance in my mind, but I just cannot get into her. I think she looks really generic and can't sing her favorite kind of songs very well. I mean, she tries Celine and Whitney. She's just not good enough!
9. Antonella. Better than last week, but still not good enough. She is smokin' hot to look at though!
8.Alaina. Again, better than last week, but she's still in the bottom half of my list. Another super hot looking girl!
7. Jordin. It's hard for me to put her here, but I was actually whincing as she started that song. She got it together by the end, but man, it was a rough start. It's a bit unfair that they're playing those emotional dedications right before the performances, but that should add a tenderness, not mess things up. I have to remember how young she is.
6. Gina. I guess I agree with Simon about her. I don't get her. Is she a punk/rebel? A rocker? A Celine Dion protege? She looks like she doesn't know her own identity. I've heard each of the songs she's done, by contestants from previous seasons, and done better. Still, she's my #6.
5.Leslie. I swear that reading the reviews by some of you here has influenced me. I actually like her quirkiness and kinda doofiness! I liked her little scat. I like that she's so different.
I'd like to hear her sing Dusty Springfield.
4. Sabrina. See, now, I love Whitney Houston and I like it when someone can sing her songs well. At first, I didn't think Sabrina was gonna cut it, but she did. Whew!
3. LaKisha. This reminded me of a Kelly Clarkson performance. Kelly always sang sure-fire crowd pleasers, and she sang them well. That's what LaKisha did.
2. Stephanie. That song is really complex and difficult and I was worried, but Steph really held it together and got it done right! She looked awesome.
1. Melinda. Man, I've got a big ol' crush on her! I LOVE her arrangement of Funny Valentine and her delivery was amazing! Wow! Yikes, if she gets taken away, I'll be so upset!
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
From worst to best...
5.Leslie. I swear that reading the reviews by some of you here has influenced me. I actually like her quirkiness and kinda doofiness! I liked her little scat. I like that she's so different.
I'd like to hear her sing Dusty Springfield.
Yup. She's got that kinda voice...
Oh yeah, I wanted to report that Fantasia sang "I'm Here" from the Color Purple on Oprah and it was *amazing*!! She was crying at the end of the song as Oprah came up and gave her a hug.
I just love me some Fantasia!
YAY, I got home earlier than expected! less than 25 minutes 'til eliminations and the antics of K-Pickle!
And then back here to spoil!!!
oooooh, Matt, I really like the description of Leslie's voice as "hypnotic"! I agree! She's right up there with Melinda and Jordin for me!
OK, it's over....
1st guy eliminated:
I wasn't disappointed, as I've felt he's lacked the true urge to make it, but I was a little surprised, as I thought his extremely handsome looks would carry him further.
1st gal elminated:
Not surprised or disappointed at all, though the elimination was very emotional.
2nd guy eliminated:
Not surprised or disappointed, though I feel the young man facing elminiation with him should have went this week and the actual elminiated contestant should have left next week.
2nd gal eliminated:
NoooooOOOOOOOoooooooo!!!
A travesty. I blame myself for not voting for her (I haven't voted at all yet; maybe I need to get on it).
re: Kellie Pickler...
I quite liked the sad song, but when did K-Pick become Tammy Wynette? Good Lord, she looked 45, she's aged so much. I'm a little worried about her. I think I might check out her CD.
I agree with everything LASH just wrote. I'm really upset about Leslie. I guess for the girls im rooting for Jordin now, although I love Melinda.
And all my guys made it thru so Im a happy camper.
And like you LASH, I didn't vote either. That won't happen again.
I think Nick could have been good on the regular show, so I'm bummed that he's out. I don't think he would have won, though. I'm just not a Phil fan. I wish he was the one leaving.
I *knew* Alaina wouldn't be able to sing, because of the tears. It was actually very sweet. I like her now! (Bad timing!)
I LOVE that Sundance is a big cry baby! (I'm one, too, and my family makes fun of me all the time about it! Oh well, it's better than being a blah.)
I wasn't shocked that Sanjaya was safe. There must be a lot of voters out there who like the whole underdog angle. Or it could be a "Vote for the Worst" thing. Or, the producers might be cheating and eliminating who they want. Is that illegal? I was, however, disappointed that AJ was cut. I liked his last performance a lot.
It's pretty much the same for Antonella and Leslie for me. I can't understand how A is safe and L was the one chosen to go. The voting is always weird on this show.
Lots of tears. I guess I don't often get to see the elimination shows, so this is all pretty new. TiVo!
Kelly Pickler looked 50! Well, with a SMOKIN' hot body. When did she turn into Tammy Wynette? Her song was sweet and pretty sad, and she did well. Still, I expected her to break out with "Stand by your Man!"
Hah! Lash and I said the same thing about Kellie! I forgot that Lash calls her Pickles! Hee!
Dean--- our Kellie reviews were almost word for word-- so kewl! I liked her enough last night that I want to check out her CD! I just hope she's having enough... FUN. She's WAYYY to young to be a Tammy Wynette.
Matt, let's promise to vote for our favorites starting next week, no matter how safe they seem!
Getting SO CLOSE to top 12 now!
Awww, poor Leslie. Three of my friends and I voted LOTS for her, but none of us EVER got a busy signal. I thought her quirkiness might help her hold out for a couple more weeks.
I was really surprised to see Hayley stay. She's just cheesy to me. I really want Brandon to step it up and do better.
Antonella and Sanjaya...just, no. I really don't get the raves Sundance got the other night. Maybe it's just that I LOATHE "Mustang Sally", but I didn't think he was much better than a good bar band.
I don't think she'll win, but Melinda is just in a different league...that was amazing this week.
And I usually don't care for Ryan Seacrest, but he earned special points last night for calling Pickler out on her boob job--and poor thing, she didn't even get it!
Hopes for next week:
1) I want Gina to do something totally amazing and out of the ordinary for her. I want to see what shes's capable of.
2) I want the same thing for Melinda - let's see how she handles a different type of song.
as for the guys
1) Chris R - I just want him on my screen as long as possible. his smile makes me melt.
2) I hope Blake continues to be as original and refreshing as he has been up to now.
3) Sundance needs to keep wowing me, hes in my top 4 guys as of last week, but his position there is very precarious
4) Chris S - Get a stylist! - Keep showing his amazing range and great personality - I still think hes a dark horse here...
Chris R made me want to vomit, but not as much as Blake who is tedious beyond belief, about as original as a fake copy of a forged Picasso and just creepy as all hell. I really, really dislike him.
Although I possibly dislike Sundance more. The whiny little tit.
I am very annoyed with you Americans for not voting to keep Leslie. I fully expect next week that Lakisha and Melinda will go and I will finally lose all faith in you.
I do, however, adore Melinda and Lakisha, think Gina, Stephanie and Jordin could turn out to be rather marvellous if they work out a few blips and find the othersmostly disposable. Oh, Antonella is still hideous. Nasty girl and sounds like a blender with a piece of grit caught in the blades when she sings. Only less tuneful.
I like Chris S as well although he is quickly in danger of becoming smug and irritating. As long as he carries on singing like he did this week though I can live with him. The other boys I have already forgotten and they were only on here an hour ago.
Once we're down to the top twelve I shall probably start doing full reviews again. I have my knives sharpening as we speak...
One thing I've noticed about Chris S., he's constantly looking at the judge's reactions after a competitor has sung. Take a look next time they show the guys in the dog pound, it comes across to me as very calculating. I get the sense he's not too happy at how well the women are doing, grudgingly clapping along with the others, and probably knows one of the women will win. It's like you can see the wheels in his head turning... how far can he go in this competition, knowing that the further he goes, the better his chances of parlaying this experience into $$$$$.
Wow. Lackluster night. And Paula seemed like an actual judge tonight instead of a cheerleader.
Here my review of the guys:
Blake: Still think he's adorable. Still think he's original. I still think that he's got something very special. He'll be there next week or I'll eat my hat.
Sanjaya: Um, maybe im still bitter that he's still here. But although he dressed better, nothing about him stood out to me. Plus he seemed off key a bit. Ouch about the hair comment.
Sundance: I'm not liking his Pearl Jam, bad song choice for his voice. I like him, but not as much as I did last week. He's still number 4 on my list.
Chris R: I'm not a fan of country, but even with that said, I love his voice and he knows how to play the camera. He's my number one choice. I voted for him.
Jared: I appreciate that he came out with a higher energy than i remember from previous weeks. With that said, I don't like the song for him and I'm not sure what image he's going for. I guess I just don't understand him.
Brandon: OK much better than last week. But I still don't think he's standing out. He seems like such a nice, sentimental guy, but I'm not still not a big fan.
Phil: His voice seemed off. And I don't think he has the range to be an Idol. However, he has a likability factor that I think will move him forward.
Chris S: Wow! Love his voice. He has such a stong personality that I feel that alone makes his songs...better. I do wish he'd have a makeover, but this is a singing contest and by that alone, he will be back.
Worst to best...
8. I just don't like Phil at all, and he seems to be only able to sing the big notes well. He doesn't have very good control. Bad hat, and he needs a hat.
7. Jared. I don't get him. His vocals are okay, but he just doesn't say STAR to me.
6. Sundance. It just didn't feel right. Must've been pitchy or off somehow or something. It was not different enough from the original to be special, and it was obviously not as good as the original. Every now and then an AI contestant will be *better* than the original, and that did NOT happen here... and I really want to like Sundance.
5. Sanjaya. I just don't think he's as bad as the judges say. He still needs his moment of brilliance. It should have happened a long time ago.
4. Brandon. It should have been more fun than it was. I don't know why it wasn't.
3. Chris R. It was kinda boring, but nice. I don't know the song, so I can't compare it to anything else, which is a good thing for the contestants.
2. Blake. He's been my favorite all along, and I thought he was great tonight. The song was fun and he was very charismatic as he performed it, it's just that there was no show-stopper moment.
1. Chris S. I don't know this song, either, and I liked it a lot. I think he sang really well and gave some oomph at the end.
Overall, it was an underwhelming night, though. None of the guys are really providing that WOW vocal dazzle that should be on this show. The girls have, though. Can't wait for tomorrow night's show.
Am I the only one who would quite happily launch Blake into the sun? He can carry a tune fair enough and he's not hideous ugly like he escaped from a freak show or anything but he's so bloody wet and plastic and creepy as all hell. He's like someone took everything that they thought the buying public would want in a bland, squeaky clean pop singer and moulded him out of cheap plastic. He's not in the slightest bit original, he has no tone in his voice and his personality is either incredibly fake or incredibly dull. Or possibly both. He's this years Ace to me. A decent singer but tedious and plastic and unaccountably popular. I really, really don't understand the point of him. He's desperately trying to have some 'edge' with his beatboxing despite the fact that the last time that was edgy was about twenty years ago and dresses like Justin Timberlake on a bad day. And I can't stand Timberlake either.
In fact the only one of the boys that i don't think is either entirely disposable or intensely irritating is Chris S and he's quickly becoming annoying as well. We get extra interviews and stuff here in the UK (basically they cut most of Ryan's verbal diorreha (sp?) and replace it with Cat Deeley gibbering at the contestants instead) and he's coem across as being a bit creepy and far too cocky in those clips. He's a funny guy but also is far too sure that he's funny and doesn't appear to have any kind of humility with it. He does, however, have a pretty incredible voice so I can forgive some of his less endearing personality traits for the time being.
A very lackluster night overall.
Sanjaya sucked as usual. Phil was awful and I didn't like Sundance's version of "Jeremy" at all.
Jared and Brandon were okay but just aren't OOOOMPHy enough to make it.
I did like Blake, and both Chrises, though, with Chris Sligh having the edge for top spot of the night, followed by Blake and Chris R. If I'm being honest, these 3 guys should be the only guys in the top 12. There's going to be some GOOD girls that don't make top 12 in favor of some average-to-bad guys.
Last night stank all kinds of smelly.
Wednesday night, and the lasses sang like larks!
Melinda once again ruled the night, for me.
Both Jordin and Gina rocked out very well.
Lakisha returned to full form.
Haley, Sabrina and Stephanie are all good but they just don't stand out enough for me. It's kinda like a Jared and Brandon thing.
Antonella has the bad luck of being in AI during a season of powerhouse femme singers (similar to, say, Camille during AI S3, versus Fantasia, Diana, Jennifer and Latoya). I don't think she's bad, just overshadowed vocally-- though certainly not in the looks department. She makes a gay guy wanna go straight.
Which girls will go? It won't surprise me if Antonella MAKES top 12. I also wouldn't be surprised if either Stephanie or Sabrina get the boot.
At this point, it's anyone's-- both guys and girls-- ballgame.
AI ALBUM NEWS:
Last season's 8th place finalist BUCKY COVINGTON's CD drops in April!
In related news, I'll be needing Bevis' mailing address!
And if
DialIdol.com is correct, we might be seeing the end of the run for Sundance and Phil tomorrow! Too early to call the girls, but so far Sabrina and Haley are in last place!
Worst to Best
8. Haley. I just can't get into this girl. She's pretty, though.
7. Antonella. This was the best song choice she's made, IMO. She shouldn't even try to go big, she should keep it simple and sweet. She misses a LOT of notes during her performances.
So hot to look at!
6. Sabrina. I think she's just a little bit off. Her quite moments are just a bit out of tune and her big moments are almost screaming. She pulls it off, but it's often shaky.
5. Jordin. I like that she rocked out. It shows that she has good diversity.
4. Gina. I haven't been a big fan of hers until now. She really belongs in that genre. She seemed more comfortable even though she botched the very last note. Still the rest of the song went well.
3. Stephanie. I don't know that song, so I can't compare it to Chaka, but I thought she was really good.
2. Lakisha. I love when a girl can sing a Whitney song. She nailed it!
1. Melinda. I couldn't wait to see what she was going to do, and she BROUGHT IT! So much fun, so powerful, and then so sweet.
Can't wait to hear what the giant Idol event is! I hope the results have a shocking twist. That's always fun and creates conversation!
Originally posted by MLLASH:
AI ALBUM NEWS:
Last season's 8th place finalist BUCKY COVINGTON's CD drops in April!
Is it titled 'Bucky Covington: Hrughl lagameg glarb urk, Bucky!'?
I so hope it is.
I'm thinking it's Melinda's season to lose.
She seems untouchable. Very impressive performance tonight (yet again). Too many of the other singers just seem "blah" by comparison.
Jordin - Wow! We saw a different side tonight. And I liked it! She has moved up on my list.
Sabrina - I love that song usually, but I don't think she did it or herself justice tonight. Her voice just wasn't there. This may be her last week.
Antonella - This felt like a high school talent show performance. Like so many of the guys last night, there was no emotion, no personality. Not good. I agree, shes pretty though.
Hayley - It's almost like she's a week behind the other girls. I don't know how else to explain it. Gina pulled off her look last week and did it better. It doesn't feel like she's improving at all. And the song, well it wasn't great.
Stephanie - She sang well. That's about all i can say.
Lakesha - I guess I finally saw what everyone else has been seeing. She won me a over a bit tonight. While she's still not my fave, she is solid.
Gina - I love this girl! But tonight wasn't as good as last week. I did think she was screaming at one point instead of singing. I hope it doesn't knock her out.
Melinda - Oh My God she is a showman! I still stand behind my hope that she becomes a huge broadway star, cause i bet she can act too. She may actually be TOO GOOD for Idol if that makes any sense?
The Top 12 are chosen! I'm not 100% behind the people picked, but the best ones are there.
Looking forward to the big shows!
Originally posted by MLLASH:
.
I did like Blake, and both Chrises, though, with Chris Sligh having the edge for top spot of the night, followed by Blake and Chris R. If I'm being honest, these 3 guys should be the only guys in the top 12. There's going to be some GOOD girls that don't make top 12 in favor of some average-to-bad guys.
I agree 100%!!!!!
Well, while I'm not looking forward to seeing Sanajaya wisp his way through another song, I'm glad I don't have to see Sundance anymore.
Pretty shocked Hayley made it in over Sabrina, but I do think Sabrina didn't show enough "WOW" to stand out among the other girls with similar styles.
I most want Brandon to step it up. I keep waiting for him to show his potential...Of course, I may just want him to do better because, well...he's HOT.
Right *rubs hands together eagerly*, review time.
The boys.
Blake. You know what? Blake has quite sexy arms. Not too buff but not skinny. There, I said something nice about him, don't expect it to happen again for a long time yet. He's plastic, he's dull, his hair is so tweaked and primped and preened that I have a burning desire to just hack at it with a pair of scissors and his singing is all perfectly acceptable and in tune and in time and makes me want to cry. They keep going on about the fact that he's so original except he's not in the slightest. He's a cheap copy of cheap artists who were never original in the first place. He's smug and creepy and hideous. Ick ick ick, can't stand him. Like I say though, quite nice arms.
Sanjaya. He seems like a nice enough lad and he might be able to sing but I've not heard him yet. Not because I keep missing his performances you understand, just because he sings like he's a frightened mouse. I don't object to him making it into the top twelve but only because with the crappiness of the boys at least... oooh, five crappy ones were going to make it in.
Sundance. Now some of the boys I dislike because of their creepy, plastic nature. Some I dislike for being dull. Sundance, however, is the only one that i dislike for being a tuneless tub of lard. With stupid facial hair. So not sorry he's gotten the boot. He came off and said that the song was supposed to be sung that way because it's rock. However I would wish to point out that rock does not equal out of tune shouting, the tuneless tub of lard.
Chris R. Every year there's at least one boy who is probably secretly a serial killer. This year that serial killer in the making is Chris R. There's just something incredibly creepy about him. It's not just that he's at best a mediocre singer and at worst a tedious R&B wannabe who can make any genre sound like crap R&B rubbish, it's that he has this look about him which makes you feel like he's been slipping cyanide into the production crew's tea or bludgeoning homeless people in the cover of darkness. I really don't approve of him at all. Plus I think the police should be keeping a close eye on him because it's only a matter of time before he cracks and makes Paula's skin into a fetching coat.
Jared. *snore, bonk* The bonk is the sound of my head hitting the floor as Jared bores me to death. I don't think anyone is going to miss him.
Brandon. Damn. OK, at some point between the first round of auditions and now clearly aliens came down and stole the guy who auditioned as Brandon and swapped him for someone who while not exactly bad is awfully, awfully disappointing. I keep expecting him to be really, really good and every week he's just a bit meh.
Phil. Does no-one realise Phil has escaped from his hospital bed? He's obviously in the last stages of some horrible illness that's causing him to waste away before our eyes. Oh, and wear really, really horrible hats. The hats I am convinced are one of the symptoms of the illness because surely there can't be a rational reason to wear them. Oh, his singing? I don't know. I was being transfixed by the hat. It was like some kind of alien monster sucking out his brains. It really was ugly. He either needs to sack his stylist or get a stylist whose sole job is to sit there with a big stick and beat him every time he picks up a nasty hat. Like the one he's wearing for the results. He'd get a beating for that one as well.
Chris S. The only one of the boys who actually managed to sing a song well tonight. He's not absolutely incredible but he's very good. He is now quickly moving from the 'gosh, he's a genuinely funny and nice guy' niche into the 'annoying little tit who thinks he's something extra special' niche. There's a difference between being confident and outgoing and being cocky and having an over-inflated ego. Chris is in danger of becoming the latter.
The Girls.
Jordin. Ooooh, I wasn't expecting that. She looked stunning and she came out and gave a performance I wasn't expecting her to do anything like that and she was really rather good. I don't think she's as good as a couple of the other girls but she's certainly got something. And whatever that something is she has way more of it than any of the boys.
Sabrina. Meh. I can't stand that type of music so it's going to be hard for me to judge how good it is really. She wasn't bad but she wasn't great. i don;t know if she really deserved to go but nor did she do enough to mean that she really deserved to get into the top twelve.
Antonella. Oh my. How to describe Antonella's performance. Well the droopy faced muppet looked as brainlessly miserable as ever like she'd spent the entire week sucking lemons so she could look as sour faced as possible. Almost every criticism of her has torn her singing to pieces but mentioned how pretty she is. Except she's not. She's young and skinny but her head is far too large for her body and she just looks so bitter than any natural beauty that she might have is completely obscured. And then there's the singing. Sorry, did I say signing? I meant garbling and shrieking through a mouthful of marbles. She is possibly one of the worst singers that Idol has ever produced. The judges need their heads reading for putting her in the top twelve in the first place, the American public need theirs reading for not voting her off first chance they got. She was easily the worst singer of all the top sixteen. Worst even than Sundance. urgh.
Hayley. Who? Sorry, when did she get here? Was she replacing someone else? Dull little girl I'm afraid. Nice to look at, nice performer, nice voice. Or something. I dunno, I've mostly forgotten her already.
Stephanie. Again not my type of music and she's really got to be careful she finds a different sound from Beyonce because she does sound awfully like her and there's no need for two Beyonces. She is very good and could be there until the end but she;s just got to do something that sets her apart from the others and she's not done that yet. To be fair nor has she cocked up or anything.
Lakesha. She's a foxy mamma who can belt a tune with class and vigour. She'll get voted off next week then.
Gina. Now *this* is what she should have been doing all along. We've seen with boys like Bo and Chris in the past that there is room within AI for a rock singer. We've never had a girl who can believably be rock until now. Here's hoping they don't keep trying to foist saccharine ballads or pop-cheese on her or anything and just let her do the rock that she's good at instead.
Melinda. America, meet you next American Idol. If you have any sense anyway. Which we know from past experience that you don't.
She's just stunning, she really is. She's got an amazing voice and has the best personality of the lot of them. It's just a shame she has no neck, bless her.
ATTENTION, AI-Lovers!
Get KELLIE PICKLER's cd "Small Town Girl"! I got it yesterday and have been having so much fun with it ever since!
Aside from buying AI-contestant stuff as presents for others or the occasional Kelly Clarkson or Fantasia download, this is the first AI-contestant cd I've ever bought for myself. I made a good choice.
I certainly wouldn't have predicted this exactly one year ago.
you can watch me walk if you want to, want to
I bet you want me back now don't you, don't you
"Red High Heels": did Kellie have it in mind to write a perfect anthem for obese drag queens?
I think my runaway favorite is "Didn't You Know How Much I Loved You", though... I'll bet Faith Hill is pissed off she didn't get that one to sing.
I LOVE Bevis!
You had me at...
"This year that serial killer in the making is Chris R. There's just something incredibly creepy about him"
He's LW's own Simon...
TOP 12 week 1!
Could only get 2 votes in through MELINDA's busy signals (wanted to do more).
Got a few votes in for JORDIN (who I think may very well win this).
Several votes in for my boy BLAKE.
Threw a couple of pity votes to CHRIS SLIGH (I liked his "Clocks" sampled version of "Endless Love") and GINA.
WHO SHOULD GO HOME: Sanjaya
WHO WILL GO HOME: Brandon or Haley
I don't get it, as much of a jerk as I think he is, I thought Chris Sligh's reworking of Endless Love was brilliant! I would actually buy this version, or at least download it illegaly.
Totally hated Chris R, his voice is SO thin and reedy, he really has no business being here, hope he gets the boot.
The judges really need to be more consistent, one second they're blasting someone for doing the same old tired version of a song, and then the next minute they're telling the next contestant to let the classics speak for themselves, totally inane.
I agree completely BWB. It's like when Randy and Paula say "Take a risk." then next week bash the performance for being different than they expected.
Strangely I didn't agree with Simon even once tonight.
My prediction: Chris won't win AI but two years from now he'll be nominated for a grammy for his solo cd.
edit: Oh yeah, hi Beavis! It's been a while since we posted in the same forum, nice to see ya bubba!
It's a very interesting year - given that possibly the two best singers ever on this show are competing. I dont' know who will win, because it's always proven to be a crap shoot. However, I have some favorites - no surprise to anyone here, since you all seem to like them as well.
Melinda - she's probably the best singer technically and the second best emotionally. There's no question that Melinda has extensive vocal training. My Funny Valentine was a master class in jazz vocal. I love Melinda and her wild-eyed bewilderment that people actually like her (she's even better than Sally Field in that respect). I don't know if Melinda will win because she's such an intellectual singer. She's the type of singer that gives recitals with symphony orchestras backing her. I'd be pleased as punch if America actually voted for her. I'm thinking that it's possible, because even the "Vote for the Worst" people will respect her.
Lakisha: She's living the American dream. Here's a girl who I suspect came from an economically disadvantaged background. When I first saw her on American Idol, she was shy, awkward, had bad hair and no sense of style. Since then she's blossomed more and more every week. Each time I see her, I actually clap and fell like standing up and cheering. All that personal development aside, Lakisha has, from the beginning, had the most awesome raw talent. Her first performance of "And I am Telling You..." was so gutsy (given Jennifer Hudson's media attention) and powerful that I was in awe of her. Furthermore, that song is so easy to screech, but Lakisha controlled her voice throughout and gave an incredibly emotional and vocally brilliant performance. (Dream Girls was my favorite Broadway play and I've heard many versions of that song and Lakisha's was one of the best ever.) Tonight, Lakisha really showed her skill in her dramatically understated performance. I can't decide who I like better. To tell the truth, I think both Lakisha and Melinda should share the American Idol prize this year.
Of the other girls, I loved Stephanie, but unfortuately, she is overshadowed this year. Any other year, she'd be one of the top 2. I like Jordin's voice, but her performance tonight seemed like she was peforming a nominated song at the Academy Awards - it was kind of schmaltzy.
The guys are weak, but a couple are really good. They need to stay within their comfort zones and stake their ground.
Blake - he's really talented - not strong vocally, but a very pleasing voice for indy/electronic music. He definitely has a future in the industry and I would buy his records.
Chris Sligh - I love his voice with all its texture. He's very talented. I hope he finds the right songs to showcase it. He should be one of the last guys standing.
Lastly, I just want Brandon to succeed. Somehow, I know he has it in him - he just hasn't shown it yet. Plus he's got the best smile in the world.
That's it.
I actually felt like it was a pretty bad show. Paging Bevis! I need some of your critique style!
12. Sanjaya. He's just never kicked into gear.
11. Haley. It might have gone okay if she didn't flub up so badly. She looked way better than normal. The stylists did wonders with her!
10. Brandon. Dull, and then he messed up.
9. Gina. So monotonous! Which is weird because that song has so much potential for drama.
8. Chris R. I don't know that song very well, but it never drew me in. He looked like he was in pain most of the time.
7. Stephanie. The judges said it best... it was just an intro. Where's the song, Steph? Bad choice.
6. Chris S. His vocals were not bad at all. He also gets points for innovation, but I'm not so sure it actually worked. Maybe... hence his position in my review.
5. Phil. His vocals were not bad either, but I think it's just that I like that song so much, that he gets points for not totally screwing it up.
4. Blake. His version of his song was a better re-working than Chris', but his vocals were just okay. He's cool, though, so that counts. Well, except, what were those shoes?
At this point, I should say that the above singers were real disappointments, because there was SO much potential with Diana Ross material. Her delivery isn't all about power, it's about character. That's what those kids need.
Now, the following singers have it all...
3. Lakisha. I like that she didn't over-do it, but I also think she could have brought a *bit* more to it. When I watch/listen again, I may change my mind. I might fall in love with this rendition.
2. Guess what! Melinda's #2 for me! I remember Kimberly Locke's version of that song from season 2, and I fell in love with that, so I was comparing this version. Melinda's was a lot more soulful, which was great, but KLo's was more dramatic. Also, I have a recollection of Stephanie Mills' version. As I said above, I may listen to this again and change my mind. Melinda is adorable.
1. JORDIN! That song is just so sweet and she did it very well. I loved it. Yes, the performance was a *bit* Disney Channel, but it was a good one.
So, the "Dream Girls" of AI6 saved this show. I'm ready to cut to the chase....
(Aw, I'll wait it out. It'll be fun along the way, I'm sure.)
Originally posted by Semi Transparent Fellow:
Of the other girls, I loved Stephanie, but unfortuately, she is overshadowed this year.
We were talking about that the other day actually. While we've been tearing down the boys for being crap (and some of the girls as well) if most of them had been in previous years of AI then we probably wouldn't be being so harsh on them. Unfortunately this year you have a few absolutely outstanding singers (Lakisha, Melinda, Jordin and Chris S) who are just overshadowing the others. Stephanie is very goos but she's simply not got the power of a couple of others or the stage presence. She could easily blossom as the show progresses but she might lose out not because she's not good enough but because the others are so very good.
I'm off down to visit my parents and brother this weekend so there's a chance I might miss most of AI this week unless they repeat it all on Sunday (which they probably will) so I might have to do a review sight unseen as t'were. If that's the case it'll probably be something like this:
Blake makes me want to hurl the annoying tit.
Brandon disappointed because I want him to be great and he wasn't.
Chris R needs to be run over with a steamroller at the first chance. Then we can go and find the dead bodies stashed under his bed.
Phil wore a bad hat. Again.
Chris S was great but he's a cocky idiot who needs taking down a peg or two.
Stephanie was very good but not good enough compared to some of the others.
Lakisha is utterly fabulous and probably will eb voted off first.
Jordin was a surprise, and a nice one at that.
Melinda should just quit now and get a proper recording contract because she really doesn't need AI to launch a career.
All the others were completely forgettable.
If Paula really isn't high on drugs of some kind then she probably needs to be.
Ryan is an arse.
See, I could probably cut and paste that almost every week and just remove anyone who gets booted off.
Originally posted by Bevis:
Blake makes me want to hurl the annoying tit.
*He did a modernization of "Keep Me Hanging On." His vocals were okay, but not very exciting. He did some kind of moon walkish dance moves which I'm sure would have bothered you.
Brandon disappointed because I want him to be great and he wasn't.
*Yep! He even flubbed some lyrics!
Chris R needs to be run over with a steamroller at the first chance. Then we can go and find the dead bodies stashed under his bed.
*Uh, okay.... Anyway, his performance was dry dry dry.
Phil wore a bad hat. Again.
*Nope! Bald head in shining glory. His vocals were fine, but his stage presence is dull/lame.
Chris S was great but he's a cocky idiot who needs taking down a peg or two.
*He orchestrated a Coldplay beat behind "Endless Love" and after listening to it again, I like it more than the first time. He's very humble when the judges critique him. I wish he was more confident. It'd also make his humor seem more real, instead of a front.
Stephanie was very good but not good enough compared to some of the others.
*True, and there was a more definite reason this time. She chose "Love Hangover." She flubbed some lyrics and the song never went anywhere. Simon said her entire performance was like an intro... waiting for the song to kick in, and I totally agree.
Lakisha is utterly fabulous and probably will eb voted off first.
*Hah! Yep, and probably.
Jordin was a surprise, and a nice one at that.
* Hah! Yep!
Melinda should just quit now and get a proper recording contract because she really doesn't need AI to launch a career.
*She'll join the other 4th Place Wonders like Tamyra Gray and Latoya London and Chris Daughtry. You all know about AI's 4th Place Wonders, don't you?
All the others were completely forgettable.
*Sanjaya and Haley were pretty bad, actually. Gina was pretty forgettable.
If Paula really isn't high on drugs of some kind then she probably needs to be.
*Paula seemed fine this time.
Ryan is an arse.
*He kept it under control pretty well. He and Simon did go 'round and 'round about the "closet" for a moment, but it could have been
a lot worse.
*Can I add that Randy is HUGE again! Gastric Bypass didn't stick! Yikes.
See, I could probably cut and paste that almost every week and just remove anyone who gets booted off.
You were pretty dang close!
My bad, I keep mixing up their names. Chris doesn't really do anything for me it's Blake that has the most potential of the guys to have a real career.
Where did the talent go? Season 5 kicked booty but 6 is pretty unexciting in comparison.
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
Chris S was great but he's a cocky idiot who needs taking down a peg or two.
*He orchestrated a Coldplay beat behind "Endless Love" and after listening to it again, I like it more than the first time. He's very humble when the judges critique him. I wish he was more confident. It'd also make his humor seem more real, instead of a front.
See, i think you guys might be missing something important with regards to Mr Sligh here. I think I already mentioned that we have extra filmed bits with the contestants and Cat Deeley (presenter of So You Think You Can Dance). Anyway, on there some of them come across quite well and others don't Melinda and Lakisha are lovely off stage as well as on. Gina comes across as being a bit... I dunno, angry maybe. Confrontational certainly. They seem to be a little more relaxed than they are in any of the US shown stuff since they're backstage, it's obviously just Cat and one cameraman and they seem to let their guard down a bit.
Anyway Chris S in those little segments is not doing himself any favours. He joked about how he was purposefully sabotaging the song choices of the others and suchlike. Granted he was joking but he's come out with a few comments like that that make you realise he is actually very cocky and has a certain edge to him that isn't all that pleasant. He knows he's a bloody good singer but he's a bit too smug about it and really, really doesn't like the judges criticising him even when they've absolutely right. You don't see that when he's on stage but the more I see of him on the backstage segments the more I think his entire humble but jokey persona is actually a complete act.
Totally okay with tonight's predictable exit.
Now this person can return to where he had the most success, as a backup singer. Unlike our other backup singer, who most DEFinitely has "IT", this young man never could seem to break out.
And really, never EVER try a cutesy little dance if it's going to jack up your memory of the lyrics.
Originally posted by Bevis:
[QUOTE]Anyway Chris S in those little segments is not doing himself any favours. He joked about how he was purposefully sabotaging the song choices of the others and suchlike. Granted he was joking but he's come out with a few comments like that that make you realise he is actually very cocky and has a certain edge to him that isn't all that pleasant. He knows he's a bloody good singer but he's a bit too smug about it and really, really doesn't like the judges criticising him even when they've absolutely right. I think his entire humble but jokey persona is actually a complete act.
Wow this is almost word for word what I was gonna write. Chris coes off as COMPLETELY insincere. The aw shucks thing is totally an act. He's realized how smug he came across initially and has since been backpedalling and trying to re-spin his image. He's keeping tight-lipped when being judged because he knows he hasn't done himself any favors... but just below the surface you know he's dying to flip=off the judges.
Ahhh Brandon... my heart melts everytime you smile... if only you could have grown a set and belted onr out there a la Ms. Doo. <sigh>
Sanjay always looks SO surprised. Can't say I blame him, it alwayys surprises me too when he squeeks through yet again.
I didn't do a running analysis this week but I have to agree with LASH once again, I was fine with the exit that occurred...
I'm surprised that Phil was in the bottom three. IMO, his vocal was the best among the guys Tuesday. I disagreed with the judges, who said he screamed the high notes. Yeah, he did last week, but I thought his singing was nearly perfect this week. I didn't feel that he lacked charisma either.
Sanjay's smile is infectious, but he should've been gone long ago. How long will Rasputin live?
I'm thinking that the public was being hard on Brandon because he's supposedly already a professional singer and that he should be better than he is. I know that's how I feel. It's no surprise when Sanjaya doesn't blow us away, but Brandon should. Doesn't seem fair, but it is what it is.
I was surpised Haley wasn't in the bottom three. Cute girl factor, I guess!
When I thought about it, though, there was something ....uncomfortable.... about Phil demanding to be loved.
Haley was awful but she got the horned up male vote which ended up outnumbering the sympathy vote which got split between Brandon and Sanjaya.
On the positive side... at least we know Sanjaya's popularity is starting to wane if he's finishing in the bottom 3... hopefully it'll keep slipping, though I'm hoping Chris R is the next to leave. If I have to see that Charlie Brown head bobble one more time... oy.
Overall, this was a much better show than last week. Maybe they aren't as nervous about the big stage and band and audience.
Worst to Best.
11. Phil. I've never been a big fan. His performance was just shouty and hectic with no charm.
10. Stephanie. She had no spark at all. It's weird because she started off this season with so much. I wonder if it has to do with fitting into unfamiliar genres is her issue. (Nadia sang that song 2 years ago, much better!)
9. Sanjaya. I know he's cute and all that, but even when he let go and rocked out, it felt still a bit forced. I actually don't think he's BAD, just not good for this show.
8. Gina. I wish she was either a tough b*tch or a sweet girl. She doesn't seem to fit into either category, which means she's always somewhere in the middle.
7. Haley. I thought she sounded good and looked amazing! Legs!!!!
6. Chris R. I might like this better on second viewing, but although his vocal quality was fine, I didn't think the song was that good for him.
5. Chris S. He sounded good and didn't try messing with stuff.
4. Blake. Updating that song worked for sure, this time. I wonder if it will be the question every week? Blake's a star.
3. Lakisha. She sounded very good. It was a great, dramatic song to use in this competition. I agree with the judges that she's better when she gives it a more sass/soul.
2. Melinda. Great haircut! Oh, and she sounded excellent, too. However, Nadia did that song 2 years ago, and I prefer that version.
1. JORDIN!!! I like this girl! For the second week for me, she chose a great song and delivered it! I was grinning as she hit those big notes! She looked beautiful, too.
The little crying girl stole the show for me.
Yes, the ensuckulation factor of last night's show was much less than usual-- even Sanjaya wasn't bad.
Although Stephanie gets my "worst of the night" award... Nadia Turner OWNS "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me", and Stephanie is NO Nadia.
And even though Melinda did well on "As Long As He Needs Me", she certainly didn't make me forget Nadia's version.
Nice to see Dean hasn't forgotten Nadia either!
Oh, and I now am rooting for Jordin to win. She kicked butt! Melinda and Blake (my other top picks) don't need this as much.
Well Jordin was my pick a few pages ago.
I actually liked Chris R last night, it was nice to actually hear him sing for once, though both he and Blake do that annoying thing where they twist their mouths up and sing out of the corner, visually, that's fairly unbecoming.
Haley was a nice surprise.
Chris S., hated the walk thru the audience, everything with him seems so forced, so staged, so insincere.
Bottom 3... Phil (I don't get the Phil love at all!), Sanjaya and Gina, with Phil getting he boot.
Ever since my fave Leslie was eliminated *SOB* I've been telling my roommate that Jordin is the one to watch.
And last night showed why! Girl can SING! Her voice was pitch perfect and on point all the way through that song. And she's young, bubbly and cute - completely appealing and marketable.
Of her only real female competition, I like Lakisha and Stephanie and love Melinda but wonder if all three of them didn't peak too early. The former 2 have not subsequently matched their stunning opening night performances and Melinda is such a firm-favourite so quickly that I worry some type of backlash might be in store for her if she has even one off-night.
Of the guys, only the two Chris' and Blake have a chance and while I like Chris Sligh's voice the best of them all, I think his personality will grate with too many viewers before all is said and done. Chris R and Blake are both good but Blake wins out for being so original. Though I do wonder if people won't get sick of Blake's beat-boxing sooner rather than later. I think I kinda am.
My prediction for the Bottom 3 and who's leaving are the same as BWB.
My prediction for Final 3 are Melinda, Jordin and Blake with either Lakisha or one of the Chris' in the 4th spot.
P.S. I missed the beginning of the night so just caught Haley's performance on YouTube! LOVED it! I don't think she's got what it takes to win but good for her for proving she deserves to be there!
I have to say I'm surprised anyone is still watching this season. I gave it up after they settled the top 12. There just isn't any talent there that I care about. Not one of them is worthy to be a back-up singer for any of last year's losers. Just MHO.
Blacula, I miss Leslie, too. :-(
Lakisha was actually my favorite last night--DIVA! We need a diva this year, and that was a diva-licious!
Had no idea Jordin had THAT in her. Wow. Melinda was great, but I don't think following up a show tune with a show tune was such a good choice.
Actually, I wasn't too pleased with any of the girls' song choices. Well, Gina chose a good song for her, but she didn't sing it very well. But for Jordin, Melinda and Lakisha to have all those great songs from the 60's and they picked THREE songs made famous by Shirley Bassey? Don't get me wrong, Miss Bassey can be fun to listen to, but I don't think this was a week for any of them to be doing those types of songs.
Blake and Chris R. were both great (I liked Chris a little more) but Chris S. seemed out of steam by the end. I would like to see Sanjaya, Phil and Hayley in the Bottom 3, but I'm afraid it may be Gina, Hayley and Chris S.
All in all, the best part of the night? That little girl LOSING HER SH*T every time the camera turned to her.
Writing as it happens...
So, Peter Noone just performed, and he made Chris Richardson nervous! Does Peter love Chris, or is it the knowing look of "I know where the bodies are!"
Sob Lass has been referenced repeatedly already...
Another cute FORD commercial! Sudsy!!
THAT'S a different way to get to the bottom... no cutesy-ness with calling out a bottom 3, either, they went straight to the bottom 2.
ONE of those bottom 2 is no surprise to me (the lass), the other (young man) is. I'll wager his fans will be in an outrage.
Thank Space! Apparently there will be no cheeseworthy group number tonight!
But, we *are* subjected to Lulu, performing the song she has ridden for 40 years! She sure is cute, though! Now my Mom wants her haircut! Stupid influential American Idol!
So now it's go-home time for someone....
Hmm. No surprise at this exit, at all. I definitely approve!
<span style="font-size: 15px;">SPOILERS!!!!</span>
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How much longer will Rasputin avoid the noose? I swear his singing gets worse every week, and he wasn't even up for elimination tonight! Aaaargh!
However, I'm glad Phil was safe. I believe his performances the last two weeks have been the best among the males. I'm just not gettin' the Phil hate! He's not my favorite (I'm undecided at the moment), but I want to see him develop each week, so I voted for him.
Can't believe one of the Chris's was up for elimination this week! However, I have been steadily disappointed in him since he wowed us with "Geek in the Pink" a while back. I thought his performance last night was way below Phil's. There's just something grating about Chris R.'s voice.
I didn't mind seeing Steph go, but she should've outlasted Rasputin!
Chris Sligh better watch it--even his clapping to Peter and Lulu's songs seemed forced! He needs to grow a personality--and QUICK!
It was a surprise seeing Chris R in the bottom, but it's a good warning to him to step it up!
I wasn't surprised by the elimination. Maybe this whole thing has become too big for her? She's a sweetie, though!
*scrape scrape scrape*
Hear that?
*scrape scrape*
That's the sound me sharpening my knives.
*scrape scrape scrape*
I have much to speak of tonight. Very little of it is good. Much of it involves serial killers posing as AI contestants. Plus a singing penis. And why we get a better version of AI than you guys (probably).
First though, my gods it was a shitty theme this week. I thought it was just going to be *any* British songs, which would have been good and broad and everyone could have found something to do. With the incredibly limited range they had to choose from they ended up picking a total of.... ooh, maybe two good songs. And one of them was performed not very well. Maybe they all just picked, really, really badly or maybe there was no decent choice to start with. Who knows?
So, lets see if I can remember these in order that they performed.
Hayley: Actually this is a good song. But the way she did it it was like she was a very pretty and leggy leech sucking all the fun and life out of the song. There was just nothing there at all that made her stand out in any way whatsoever. Oh, no, I tell a lie. Her camel-toe in those tiny shorts stood out quite a lot. Probably not good if that was the most distinctive part of her performance though...
Chris R: You can almost see the blood stains on his clothes can't you? He's got a cut throat razor in his back pocket and given half a chance he'll use it on Ryan if he gets too close. Which, at least, would probably be more entertaining and less painful than his dead-fish-eyed trudge through sixties mediocrity. He looks like a tramp that has been dragged off the street, put into ill fitting clothes and told to sing but is still to drunk on meths and wondering if he hid the last corpse properly or if he should have eaten it after all and then told them to sing a song that he'd never heard before. And yet, despite all that, he's still not the boy I hate the most...
Stephanie: Brilliant, brilliant song. Dusty Springfield made it one of the best songs of the last century and showed how to sing it with power, impact and emotion. Stephanie showed why wearing a bustier dress that is cut too low when you don;t have much in the way of cleavage isn't a good idea. She may have sung a song as well but to be honest she was almost as dull as Hayley. Not bad exactly but worse because we know she can do so much better. She didn't deserve to go yet but if that was the standard that she was going to work to then she certainly didn't deserve to go much further.
Blake: You know what I'm going to say don't you? Shall we just get this out of the way quickly? No, no we shan't. Ick ick ick ick ick ick ick ick. Creepy, slimey, carbon copy of a crappy ex-boyband turd who wants to be the white Michael Jackson (without realising we already have one of those and he's running round Bahrain dressed as a woman and actually is Michael Jackson), ghastly, flesh crawlingly bad, cheap, cheesy, plastic, fake, repetitive, bland, cliched little pile of toilet scrapings in a hideous, hideous,
hideous mish-mash of clashing clothing items that made him look like a high school science teacher trying to be groovy with the kids and making a complete and utter tit of himself. And those were the good points about Blake. Urgh. I really, really don;t see why people think he's so marvelous. Hell, i don't understand why people don't have a compulsion to grab him and throw him from a twenty storey building. He has done the same tedious schtick every single week, has tried to do his hugely dated robotic dancing every week and has looked like a smug little tit every single week and quite frankly if we wanted a smug, self satisfied, squawking, 80s dancing white boy then we'd give Justin Timberlake a call. Actually, no, we wouldn't because he's shit too. Except he's less shit that Blake, the tit.
Jordin: Yay! Happy day! It's not all doom and gloom and Blake making me want to hurt people! It's tough to take a Shirley sing and make it your own or sing it even half as well as Shirley did. Or Tom even. Jordin actually did that. She proper belted but stayed in tune. She gave the emotion and the power and the general fabulousness and was easily the highlight of the night. She started out as someone who was cute who could sing and might go OK in the competition and is now actually looking like she might be in with a good chance. If she can carry of performances like that every week she's going to go a long way.
Sanjaya: From the sublime to the ridiculous... Really, just 'why'? What is the point of Sanjaya? If Blake is trying to be Justin-Timberlake-trying-to-be-Michael-Jackson then Sanjaya is trying to be Michael Jackson's speaking voice but without the personality. And we all know what a thrilling personality Jackson has. He's weedy and thin and dull and looked like a complete idiot trying to do a song where he needed to show even an ounce of manliness. And yet people are voting for him...
Gina: Hmmm. Hmmmmmmmmm. No.... no, I don't think so. I see what she was trying to do, I see why she picked that song but I also see that she's so convinced that she's the next best thing that she needs someone to punch her smartly on the nose and tell her to pull her head out her arse and point out that it doesn't matter how many rock chick streaks you have in your hair or ever so daring black leather outfits you wear or bad attitude displays you have because if you can;t actually sing at the same time as rocking out then people are going to get wise to you quickly and call you on it. She can sing, she's shown that in the past, and there's nothing to say she can't be a rock singer on AI and do well but this week she mostly just shouted and garbled the words and lost any kind of tunefulness she's had in the past. Plus her cockiness with Simon needs to be toned down a hell of a lot. There's defending your performance and ther's coming across as being petulant. She's being petulant at the moment.
Phil: Look, it's a singing penis! With his shiny bonce wobbling around under the lights and his thin tube-like body the walking penis once again takes to the stage and shouts at us until it's time for him to go home again in his little penis house in the country. Maybe he needs to go back to wearing his awful hats because Phil's resemblence to a singing penis is even more disturbing than they were. His 'singing' is disturbing enough without his penisness making it worse. He really does look awfully like a penis. That sings. Not very well. Although I suppose it's quite a good trick for a penis...
Lakisha: Remember when I said it's tough to take on a Shirley song? Lakisha proved my point perfectly. OK so she must have been out of her mind to think that doing Diamonds Are Forever would be a good idea since it was never going to compare to the original but even with that said there was something missing hugely from her performance. She didn't have the power of the drama needed for it and I felt hugely let down. Not a bad performance exactly but way down from what I'd expect.
Chris S: OK, I have now decided that the Chris' are having a competition to see how many people they can murder and dispose of before people notice that they are psychotic. He can sing, we know that, even if tonight he at best a little dull, but he's got that little twinkle in his eye. Not the one that says he's a jolly chappie who is there to be chubby and ever so amusing. Oh no. He has the twinkle that is the light glinting off the blade of the breadknife has sharpened especially. he has gone over the line from being annoying and glib and fake and shot over into the zone of complete terror inducing egomania. One of the best singers he may be but I wouldn't be sad if he got the boot soon enough. I loved him at first. Fickle, aren't I?
Melinda: Ya.....y. Hmmm. OK, there's nothing you can fault about Melinda technically, there really isn't, but Lulu was talking about her afterwards and said that she's just missing that edge that could take her all the way and I know what she means. The performance tonight was very good but it just needs something. She's a lovely girl and a brilliant singer but she needs something else (like a neck. No, I'm being mean now, sorry. But she does. Do you think you can get neck transplants?) and I'm not quite sure what it is. I want to see her do something that you really wouldn't expect and just wow us all again. She's done it before but she might slip into a comfortable zone with her music and then people will get bored quickly.
And finally there's the reason why we (probably) got a better AI than you guys this week. Like I've said before we've been getting the little bits with Cat Deeley whittering away that you don't get. Well this week it was Cat and Lulu and some guy who I didn't recognise but clearly was famous and may have sang in the results show that I didn't watch commenting on the performances. he he. He he he he he. You think Simon is harsh? You think I'm bad? You ain't heard nothin' till you hear these three. Lulu is vicious. She pulls no punches, really she doesn't. They absolutely slated Sanjaya, pointed out that Blake is trying to be something whereas Timberlake just *is* that something and why would you need someone who has to try to be that, mercilessly mocked the outfit Stephanie had on and dismissed Gina with barely a second glance. They will probably end up on YouTube or something like that and if they do then track them down because they have truly been some of the best things I've seen on TV for ages. Lulu may have built a career from only one song but she should take over as a judge on AI and be as blunt as she was tonight because she'd be brilliant.
Oh, and interestingly they were obviously a bit narked with Gina's attitude as well because they had a big discussion about how sometimes you'll eb in the studio and hear a performance and think it was great but have Simon slate it but then when you watch it back on video you realise he was right. They made the point that while Simon may be a little harsh in how he says things he is very rarely wrong on anything. Having attitude with him just because you think that's what people want to see is stupid since if you win he's going to be the one that makes or breaks your career. Don't suck up but sure as hell don't give him lip just ebcause you think it'll get you votes.
Oh, and the crying girl? One of the most ghastly things I have seen on TV in years. That wasn't cute, that was vomit inducing. These people are not famous yet. They are not stars. They are not living legends. So stop behaving like a hysterical sheep and pull yourself together. Urgh. Lord save us from sentimentality, please.
So, overall a fun week.
I was kinda bothered that Gwen Stefani night meant that they could sing the music of her influences as well as her music. I love her stuff, so I would have loved to hear Lakisha and Melinda sing her stuff.
I figure Sanjaya is just mocking those who don't like him. Vote for the worst? He's it.
Chris S. was just not very good.
Haley seems like a cruise ship singer. Good legs, though.
Phil actually did a good job, but I think he's creepy.
Lakisha and Melinda share a spot in the middle. They both sang perfectly well, but Donna Summer songs are SO played out. I had to *endure* them.
Chris R. sounded better than Simon seemed to think, IMO.
Jordin was fun, but the song didn't allow for much vocal display. Still, she was good.
Blake. He did a really nice job with a Cure song. I was so glad he didn't beat-box!
Gina! Perfect song for her, delivered very well! She looked great, too. I don't normally rave about her, but she earned it!
Wow, I thought Gina finally hit her stride last night. In Chrissy Hynde she's found a voice whose vocal range she can emulate with just the right level of power and grace... good for her.
I loved Blake's rendition of Lovesong, and kudos to Idol for finally getting with the program and getting a band that can pulloff some of these more "alternative" melodies.
I'm actually beginning to enjoy watching Sanjaya, he brings the "cringe" factor to such dizzying heights... it's awesome to watch Simon squirm and want to crawl under the table, lol.
Chris Sligh needs to go.
Does Sanjaya think he's trying out for
America's Next Top Model ???
Originally posted by Bevis:
Oh, and the crying girl? One of the most ghastly things I have seen on TV in years. That wasn't cute, that was vomit inducing.
THANK you.
Sanjaya--there really is nearly nothing to say about him. Though, I kind of wish he would dress as a prince and ride out on a unicorn to succumb to his audience.
Chris S.--just doesn't seem to care. His invulnerable apathy doesn't appeal to me.
Haley--legs.
Phil--picked a good song to sing the way he sings, which is fine, but not exactly inspirational.
Lakisha--what she has in singing, she lacks in personality.
Melinda--fabu-tastic, as always.
Chris R.--he's my American Idol boyfriend #2, so he should at least stay on to twang a few more songs to me.
Jordin--last week's performance was way better.
Blake--he's my American Idol boyfriend #1, but I too am glad he didn't beat-box.
Gina--please get better hair.
Well, if Suckjaya wasn't going to go-- and deep down in my heart, I knew he wasn't (although I *was* surprised he wasn't at least bottom 3!)-- then this exit was my next pick.
It was about 4 seasons too late to bring chubby back, I guess.
I *will* give props to Sanjaya (as well as Chris R and Jordin) for actually choosing No Doubt/Gwen songs to perform. "Bathwater" was the last song I would ever have expected anyone to do.
Sanjaya wasn't even in the bottom 3! Doesn't this seem to happen every year?
Firstly, Sketchy that icon is brilliant. Nothing to do with AI, but I just noticed it and it amused me...
Oh dear. Not as awful as last week but really not a great week either. Off we go...
Lakisha. Meh. She could sing it in her sleep and it'd sound good but there was just something missing. It didn't have the life or the spark that it needed to lift it out of the good and into the great. I fear Lakisha has been coasting the last few weeks and if she does that people are going to get bored pretty quickly. I certainly am.
Sanjaya. I do love the way that half the AI contestants completely fail to notice when Simon is really insulting them. It's not the times he sits there and says 'you were awful' that are the really bad insults, it's the ones that he phrases in such a way that if you're a bit clueless and slow on the uptake you might take as a compliment. Like with Sanjaya tonight. He's really a bit pointless isn't he? Even his oh-so-whacky hairstyle only served to make him a rebel in the way that Michael Jackson only wearing one glove (gasp!) did. As in not at all. He's not even this year's Bucky though in that he's not amusingly awful, he's just very, very dull.
Gina. OK, so this was probably not technically the best vocal performance because Gina simply doesn't have the range of Lakisha, Melinda or Jordin but it was very, very good. She looked comfortable with the song style and her outfit and looked like she was having a good time. Easily the best song choice of the night and out of a bunch of slightly lacklustre performances hers was probably the best. She also seems to have lost some of her too cocky attitude this week which is a good thing.
Chris S. Urgh. It's amazing how someone can go from one of your favourites to being a tub of lard that makes you retch when his smug podgy face lurches onto the TV screen. The way he looked like he was about to trip with every single step made me want to stick something in his way just to see if he bounces when he does fall over. I suspect America got as fed up with his saccahrine platitudes that rang about as true as a nine dollar note and the simpering expression he permanently had on his face no matter what he was singing. Also it has to be said that his was probably one of the worst vocal performances of the night.
Haley. Plod plod plod. The AI equivalent of a loaf of potted plant. Quite nice to stick in the corner to make the place look prettier but you wouldn't want to go and see it in concert. Actually, I might go to see the potted plant. It might wave it's leaves interestingly. Haley on the other hand is just... plodding. She wasn't great and wasn't awful and is sort of pretty in a slightly bland way. I can't really muster the enthusiasm to be really mean about her. Which is just as well since it means I can save up some of my vitriol for...
Phil-The-Singing-Penis. Hahahahahahahaha! hahahaha! Hahahahahaha! Hahahahahahahaha! Ha! Oh, the Phantom Crap-Hat-Placer strikes again. And this time they brought along the Make-Up-Fiend with them. This week Phil did his best singing penis impression wearing what appeared to be a crocheted tea-cosy and three inches of make-up. He had more make-up on than all the other girls put together. Hell, he probably had more make-up on than all the women in the studio. He looked like someone realised he looked like a singing penis and so put on make-up so he'd look like an airbrushed singing penis. Wearing a crocheted tea-cosy. Oh, and his singing was pretty sucky too. I don't like the song either and it amuses me that it gets played at weddings since it's about a psycho stalker (as pointedly out repeatedly by Sting, who would probably like to have a singing penis. And possibly already does...). Gosh, I'd hate to be stalked by a singing penis wearing a crocheted tea-cosy and too much make-up. That'd completely freak me out.
Melinda. Dammit, there's something missing with her as well. It was definately the best vocal in terms of the technical side of things but she just seemed to be that little bit missing something. She needed to belt it more and have a bit more fun. She's effortless on stage and maybe that's the problem, it's too easy for her. That said if she's not at least in the final three there is something seriously wrong.
Blake. I... am.... taking.... very... calming... breaths... because.... otherwise... I.... will.... have.... to.... kill.... someone. Ye gods America, the boy is *hideous*. I mean, really, really hideous. Everything about him is repellant. His physical presence, his lack of personality, his turgid tromps through sings that he makes sound exactly the same as the one he did last week, his dress sense that is so severely impared that he could probably get a disabled parking sticker for his car. He's plastic and as exciting as watching paint dry. His singing is bland and has no life to it whatsoever and he took one of The Cure's most middle of the road songs and turned it into something so dull that it could have been the sound of someone farting in a very large space. That would have been more interesting to listen to though. I have a horrible, horrible presentation that this ghastly little pillock might actually be the next American Idol. And it'll be your fault. You hear that? YOUR FAULT. Bring back Bucky I say. At least I had fun laughing at his inability to speak. Hiohgft busetlna h,h eeku, Bucky!
Jordin. Now there were a fair few duff notes in her performance tonight and Simon was right in that it was a very hard song to do and not make it sound like she was just copying Gwen Stefani since it's so identifiably her, but it was still very good. Jordin is showing herself to be by far the most versatile of the finalists and she's growing in confidence every single week. She constantly looks different but good and her vocals are at the very least consistent, but when she's on form she can blow almost everyone else out of the water. Melinda has her beat on the technical side of things but Jordin has that spark that could give her the edge. Tonight probably won't go down as one of her defining moments but she is proving she deserves a place in the final.
Chris R. The eyes, the eyes.... I have very rarely seen such dead eyes in my life. We've got a coupld of trout in the freezer that have more alive eyes than Chris does. He just creeps me out so bloody much. The way his eyebrows appear to be trying to break free and attack his forehead is bizarre. The way when he sings he appears to have no teeth and so looks like a goldfish gopping away gormlessly in it's tank freaks me out. The way he took a brilliant song and tuned it into some tuneless dirge was astounding in his mastery of everything that is utterly mediocre. *shudder* Please vote him off Aemrica. If he stays much longer I may have to watch AI from behind the sofa because he's probably the scariest thing I've seen since the first time I watched Alien. Plus he's not as pretty as the alien.
I looked for "I Who Have Nothing" on youtube, and found that I wasn't the only one interested. The Shirley Bassey and Tom Jones versions both had plenty of comments comparing them to Jordin's version. Then, I went to iTunes and did a search for Tom Jones' version of the song for karaoke, and surprise! it was the most popular of his karaoke songs. I also got "Delilah" which would be great fun to do out at a karaoke bar!
I suppose it's a "duh" that songs done on American Idol influence the popularity of them at other sources. I have a handful of songs that I now love that I actually never knew until someone sang them on AI.
Originally posted by Bubble Wrap Boy:
I'm actually beginning to enjoy watching Sanjaya, he brings the "cringe" factor to such dizzying heights...
"Cringe Factor", I love it!
My personal guage is whether I liked the song as performed or if it just makes me want to fire up the CD player and hear the real thing. I started looking for one of my old
Police CDs the other night.
Just sayin'...
Tony Bennett inspired quite a good show! I was quite entertained.
Maybe I'll post more thoughts later....
Phil blew it. He was astonishingly horrible in this round. I hate it hate it hate it when a singer mumbles into the microphone. The ONE time a hat would have completed his outfit and he skipped it. wtf?
Blake? meh. Not impressed in the least tonight. Ok but hardly anything I'll remember next summer...and I really like Mack the Knife.
Melinda sounded great. She really has to get over being surprised that people like her, it's wearing thin.
Gina really really has to get back onto her rock and roll footing. I liked her song and it surprised me that she pulled it off so well but I want her to rock my socks off. C'mon girl, get down and kick some rock'n'roll hootchie koo!
Could Jordin's skirt have possibly been ANY shorter? Nice Camel Toe.
Chris bothers me. He's not awful but I can't think of a single thing to reccommend him. He'd better get a gimmick quick.
Lakisha went big. Real big. A little too early and then the song didn't have the expected peaks and valleys. Nonetheless that girl can blow the windows out of a concert hall. She's gonna kick major vocal booty in the years ahead.
and...not last but I saved him for it anyway..
Sanjaya? -ha ha ha- Actually he was in his element and didn't sound bad at all. I'm like Simon here, it doesn't matter what we say. He'll be there next week anyway. Dancing with Paula was cute though.
Who did I forget?
ok i'm gonna admitt it, the only reason i'm even watching Idol this season is because of Sanjaya's sister. she is sooooooo frikkin hot!!!
Jeepers. I came off pretty negative didn't I?
Actually only Phil was bad. Everybody else did pretty decently but I was looking for more. And I always get several good laughs from the judges.
I'm not really a crumudgeon I just play one on TV.
I thought Jordin was amazing, don't know what the hell Simon was talking about. Melinda was great. Blake reminds me Maroon 5's Adam Levine, with just a dash of Morrisey (which I thought was a nice catch by another poster upthread). hated Lakisha's rendition of a great song, though she did end nicely. Really hated Chris' vocals, and Phil just out and out sucked... again!
And Sanjaya... oy... the cringe is strong in that one.
Originally posted by Yellow Kid:
Jeepers. I came off pretty negative didn't I?
With me around don't think anyoen else has to worry about coming across as being too negative.
I think this show has finally become a parody of itself.
Tony Bennett night? Yawn. I only taped it instead of salivating over every moment live, and for me that REALLY shows disinterest.
It turned out better than I thought it would, though. Most everyone did really well, except Phil and Haley.
But the whole thing seems so pointless. There's such a huge margin between the talent levels this year.
Blake: I like Blake, and his singing was okay. But, that's just not how Mack the Knife should be done. It needs some edge. And he could really benefit from adding some variety to his singing style.
Phil: I liked his very last note. That's the only point at which he made me pay attention
Melinda: Superb. She should release a record right now.
Gina: Nice variety, but could have worked it a bit more (not rock-wise, just song-wise). Glad to see the different hair.
Chris: I was really impressed with his singing & performance. He moved up a few notches in my estimation.
Jordin: People seem to like her. I really wasn't feeling anything from her singing.
Haley: She should be on broadway. She can belt & seems like she'd be more interesting playing a character than trying to showcase her own.
Lakisha: She sings well, but I still see no personality whatsoever. Maybe she should consider a boob reduction; how can it be comfortable hauling those things around?
re: tonight's results: YAWN.
This season has become way too predictable.
Wake me in 3 weeks after Phil and Haley have been booted and Sansucka has sent home one of MUCH better performers (either Chris R., Blake, Lakisha, Jordin or Melinda) in the shocker episode you just KNOW is coming.
Phil haylie or Snajaya should have been let go. I'm too mad to say anything else...
None of this shocks me. It's very Idol formula. I mean, yeah, Gina's better than Phil or Haley, so they should have gone earlier. Sanjaya is a novelty that won't wear off. Blah blah blah... The bottom half is always like this.
I start to get bothered when people who should be out sometime around the middle get to the top.
Here's my dream placement:
8. Phil
7. Haley
6. Sanjaya
5. Chris
4. Lakisha
3. Blake
2. Melinda
1. Jordin
If 8-5 make it past 4, that'll bug me.
(Still, even when I've been annoyed with the show, I've never vowed to quit watching!)
Okay, I don't want to make anyone mad, but I'm totally on the "Vote for Sanjaya" bandwagon now.
So does anyone know if this Sanjaya kid is at least close to being voted off? I've never actually watched an episode of American Idol, but I feel pretty bad for its viewers. I wonder if the formula will ultimately have to be changed?
Well, on the elimination show on Wed, he was not in the bottom three or the top three, so he's safely coasting by in the middle. The Dream Girls (Melinda, Lakisha and Jordin) were the top three, btw. That's as it should be, IMO.
Sanjaya is only a kid, so it concerns me that he's getting all of this very negative attention. I would not want my son in that position. I mean, it's pretty close to a William Hung type of thing. Still, maybe his family is strong enough to laugh through it all?
I have a confession to make. I am finding it harder and harder to get any kind of connection with AI this year. The two who are the best are a mile above everyone else and the others are either just good but not interesting or rubbish in a slightly dull way. The song choices have, with a few exceptions, been uninspired and dull and the theme nights are being done to death. If they just let them all sing songs of their choice that have nothing to do with a theme it might help, but I'm not sure it would. Anyway, on to this week...
Blake: If they could genetically modify pond slime so that it could sing and wear cheap polyester suits then it'd still be more appealing than Blake. He creeps me out with his slimy, creepy, plastic, fake performances and empty smile. His singing voice doesn't have any tone or depth to it and this week he took and classic song that should really be sung by a woman and should be sinister and creepy and managed to make it dull and poppy and completely seemed to miss the point of the song entirely. I am fully aware that I seem to be in the minority in thinking that Blake is one of the worst things to ever have appeared on a talent show of any kind (and we had Pop Stars: The Rivals here in the UK so we've had some real dross) but even if he wins at least I am safe in the knowledge that no matter how good any previous AI winners have been they will never, ever have a career in the UK so I'm unlikely to have to endure his vacuousness once this season of AI is done.
Phil: The Singing Penis had too much make-up on again this week. He also appeared to be singing a completely different song from the band. Possibly to a completely different musical scale from the one they were playing in. Or he might have been communicating with the penis shaped aliens that have planted him here in Earth. I find it hard to believe that squawking and squonking that was issuing forth from his throat was actually singing.
Melinda: Mel has let me down a bit the last couple of weeks in that the spark has been missing but she was back with a vengence this week. She looked like she was having a good time on stage, which she hasn't done the last couple of weeks, and she managed to both tell the story in the song and sing it perfectly without losing that connection with the audience. If there was any justice in the world everyone apart from Melinda and Jordin would get the boot right now (with Lakisha getting the third place obviously) and we'd just go to the final with those two since they're clearly the only ones that actually deserve to be there. I am fully expecting one or other of them to go next week...
Gina: Actually I really rather liked this. It showed a different side to her, showed that she can sing and showed that she can do a nice simple song without having to shout. Not a patch on Melinda but still not bad at all. There was now way on Earth she deserved to go this week even if she never really had a chance of winning.
Chris: Now everyone knows how much I enjoyed Bucky's incomprehensible burblings last last and how much I have missed. Well fret no more since Chris has taken the challenge and run with it! Not content with trying to become the psychopath to win American Idol he has now clearly decided that people will like him much more if he wears a hat over his eyes (which at least gives us hope that he might not be able to see where he's going and trip off the stage with hilarious consequences) and mumbles every single word of the song he is currently ruining. Not quite as amusing as Bucky since Bucky actually made some noises beyond a muffled burp and still managed to make no sense whatsoever, but it's nice to see someone following his example.
Sanjaya: Weak vocals, hideous ill-fitting suit and cringe inducing sucking up to Paula in the hope that maybe she'd give him a good review. Which she didn't. If Paula refuses to give you a good review then you know you suck. Vote For The Worst has a lot to answer for.
Jordin: Not a great song to be honest but not a bad performance of it. Not her best week but again it was something different from what she's done before and she performed very well. She's clearly not got the experience of Melinda but she's got the potential to have a huge career.
Haley: My gods, that was a hideous arrangement of the song. It was kind of like they didn't know what they were supposed to be playing so hedged their bets and played *everything*. Haley was OK. Not bad, not great, just... ah, who cares? Of all of the them she's the one that I really can't be bothered with. Seems like a nice girl but she's unbelievably dull and should have gone weeks ago. America can do better than her, they really can.
Lakisha: I'm not sure why but I really didn't like her performance much this week. She looked fabulous but she started off with a string of seriously bum notes and it never recovered to my mind. I didn't think it was awful but nor did I think it was as good as she can be. Not quite sure why the judges raved about it so much, but then again they like Blake and even an OK performance from Lakisha is a million times better than Blake's best performance ever so it's hard to tell with them sometimes.
So this week we had Melinda giving the one and only really good performance and the Singing-Penis and Sanjaya proving that in America you don't actually need any talent whatsoever to become famous. That's probably true of the rest of the world as well mind, but since I am watching AI the Americans can take all the blame for the time being.
Sketchy, I agree completely with your list of how the top 5 should go.
Melinda's going to be huge regardless and doesn't need this. Jordin for the next AI!!!!
Anyone know the theme for this week?
ps/ AI would benefit greatly by going the DANCING W/THE STARS route, and limiting votes to 5 per phone line.
I mean, sure, they may get 35 million votes in as it is now, but if those votes are only coming from 4 million people, that's really not right.
Hmm. Well, we knew this elimination was happening sooner or later. No real surprise, but I felt like Phil should have gone first after last night's performances.
Amazing. Doing Latino music definitely took the best singers out of their "comfort zone". None of the good singers were able to sing AND move at the same time and ALMOST none of them were able to summon the passion of the Latino style into their voices.
-heh- it's harder than it looks isn't it?
Carlos Santana should forbid AI from EVER doing his music EVER AGAIN! I happen to LOVE that Santana album and they murdered it. ...maybe murder isn't a strong enough word...butchered might be more appropriate. In any case they stank.
Ok, who turned this week into the Bizarro World episode?
Sanjaya did his song beautifully. The ONLY contestant to have the courage to sing in Spanish knocked it out of the park.
WTF!?
I still can't believe it.
When I finally saw who Ryan was teasing as the two with the lowest votes I actually got excited for a moment. Then I thought, "It's Haley...dammit." Not that I wanted her to stay exactly but I absolutely hate Phil. Yeah, her performance was abominable but I want "the singing penis" to go SO badly. (love that phrase -thanks for that Sketchy)
YK, that's Bevis' phrase, not mine! But I don't care for Phil....
Latin Week really clarified for me, the problem I have with this year's contestants. JLo kept emphasizing passion and connecting a feeling with the songs, and I just don't get that from these guys. I guess I like Jordin best because I feel like she does put some emotion into her performances. Melinda second.
Compare them to Fantasia, who puts SO much emotion into her performances, or my other favorites, Bo Bice and Kelly Clarkson. They just really got into it. Carrie was at her best when she showed some emotion and at her worst when she was more robotic and kinda stiff.
It was just "tick tock" til Haley was cut. She's cute and all, but her performances were SO Carnival Cruise ship!
Now THAT was more like it! I really enjoyed tonight's show.
Phil opened, and was better than his usual awful self.
Jordin rocked, as usual.
Sanjaya still sucks.
Lakisha did good I thought but the judges didn't like it.
This isn't really Chris' musical genre.
Melinda & Blake were both excellent, with Melinda having the edge to take the # 1 spot of the night!
WHO SHOULD GO HOME: Sanjaya of course.
WHO WILL GO HOME: Phil will be heading down the country roads.
Country music night made it hard to pay attention.
Phil didn't make me want to pay attention, though he was apparently better than usual.
Jordin did good. She can really sing the big songs, but just loses me when she tries the more pop ones.
Sanjaya, eesh.
Lakisha made me revert to not caring.
Chris: "Nasal is a style of singing." Fine, stop singing in that style, please. More smiling & eye-twinkling is all I require from you.
Melinda pulled out a perfect song choice. I even paid attention to it. Plus she delivered, as usual.
Blake... I sort of stopped paying attention again, but he's still adorable.
Oh, could this FINALLY be the end of the "journey" for Sanjaya? Geez, I hope so. But I fear Lakisha may be in danger, too. I didn't *love* her last night, but I don't think it was as bad as they judges thought. Melinda looked (and sang) great, Phil excelled at country but I still don't like him, Chris was a hot mess but still cute, Jordin sang a dreadful song quite well, and even though all my friends love him, I'm just not on the Blake train yet.
As far as I'm concerned, Phil and Sanjaya are the same. Decent voices but not great. Decent looking but not great. No star quality. It's beyond annoying that they're both still there.
Chris is only a little better than those two.
It did seem like Lakisha was shouting that song. I know it was in order to show her passion, but it came across as just loud.
I really like Blake, so I'm probably easier on him than normal, but this time, I'm not sure he hit all the notes he needed to. He always gets points for difficulty and complexity. He does have true presence onstage. I just worry about his lack of lips.
Melinda put together another blockbuster performance! She's just got it together and she didn't look 50!
My favorite this season, and last night, is Jordin, and her most recent performance proves why. She has excellent stage presence, she has drama and emotion, and she can nail the big finish. Love that! She was amazing and I echo Randy's constant statement about how this is coming from a child of 17. (Believe me, I know that some 17 year olds are pretty much adults, but not all of them are...) I remember when another youngster, Diana DeGarmo, sang "Broken Wing." She was good, too.
Happy Happy Joy Joy!
And is it just me, or did it seem like Simon KNEW Sanjaya was a goner?
I am generally quite underwhelmed by most of the contestants on AI this year. I refuse to believe that all the singing talent in America has already been used up, but if the likes of Sanjaya and Chris are the best the country can do then gods help us all. Anyway...
Actually, the singing penis wasn't bad this week. He still looks like he has an inch of make-up on and in the results show the Phantom-Hat-Placer had struck again but he wasn't appaling. Just not brilliant. One of the best of a fairly bad bunch though...
Jordin. Bloody hell the girl is good. She knows how to build up a song properly without the start of the song dragging or being dull. She looked stunning and even though she clearly lacks the experience that Melinda has she's potentially at least as good a singer. I'm really going to be miffed if she's not in the final two with Melinda.
Sanjaya. About bloody time. Even though this week he was utterly appaling he was still pretty shocking. He's wet and ever so slightly creepy and just a not very good singer. There's no way he should have got this far in the first place but thank gods he's finally gone.
Lakisha. Right, I am now officially over Lakisha. She *should* be fantastic, and she's got a great voice but she simply doesn't seem to know how to perform in any way that actually has any life to it. I don't really understand why since she's clearly come from a gospel background and she should be able to bring that joy and excitement to her singing and she doesn't. Even though she clearly wasn't comfortable with the singing style none of the others were either and didn't seem to let it get to them. In the end, after going on and off key for most of the song, she ended up just shouting. There's a fine line between belting a tune and shouting it. Jordin belted and built up the story of the song as well as the musical build. Lakisha... well, she didn't. Unless she can really do something great soon I don't care if she gets the boot or not.
Chris. Aw feck off you creepy serial killer whiny nasal slimy little turd. Who the hell was voting this little pysho into the top four? 'Nasal is a singing style'. What? WHAT!??!!? No it's not you little pillock, it's an excuse to cover the fact that he can barely sing in tune and thinks that by droning through his nostrils we won't notice. His hideous white denim jacket didn't help matters. Mostly, however, his piggy little eyes and droning honking of a fairly rubbish song was enough to make me want to lauch him into space and then cheer as he flames and burns on re-entry.
Melinda. Yay! The diva is back! A brilliant choice of song and showed that not only can she sing in tune but she can keep up with a keep up with something like that. She looked stunning and looked like she was having a whale of a time. Easily the best performance of the night (although to be fair Jordin wasn't much behind) and I'm so glad she's recovered from a couple of slightly meh weeks.
Blake. I... just... I mean, it's... there's just... I mean, seriously, how... urgh. Just... urgh. He gets slimier and more hideous every single bloody week. His singing this week was actually pretty shitty as well, which is maybe the one thing I've not been able to criticise him about before. However his tank top pulled down over his arse made him look like he was a four year old who has been dressed up smart by his parents and wants to take his trousers of and run around in the mud. Except he's not cute or endearing or pleasant in any way at all. He's one of the most unpleasant, vile looking, slimy little wastes of space to ever appear on a TV sacreen. Of course the one small mercy was that the public have actually seen enough sense to put him in the bottom three. Now all you need to do is not vote for him at all and maybe we can get rid of the little prat.
So, Melinda and Jordin were great, Phil wasn't that bad and the others shouldn't really have bothered turning up. You'd really think with the top seven we'd be a bit better than that...
CHRIS
me: He's so freakin' CUTE, but I'm still not a big fan of the vocals.
bf: He IS so freakin' cute, and his vocals aren't necessarily the best but they aren't horrible.
MELINDA
bf: She can do NO wrong.
me: Agreed. Even if she doesn't win, she won about 9 weeks ago.
BLAKE
me: Still my favorite guy. I, er-- find him a BIT more physically appealing than Bevis and think he should be top 3. LOVE his style in clothes!
bf: DEFintely the # 1 guy; One of the first times he has ventured out of his vocal style.
LAKEISHA
bf: First week: YES. Since then: AVERAGE. Sad to say, would not be upset if she left.
me: I'm sorry, but Fantasia OWNS that song.
PHIL
me: Didn't even really pay attention. He cannot hold my interest.
bf: Honestly, Sanjaya could have stayed and Phil left, and it wouldn't have affected anything.
JORDIN
bf: CUTE as all getout; should be in the finals.
me: I still want her to take it all.
WHO SHOULD GO HOME:
me: Phil
bf: Phil
WHO WILL GO HOME:
me: Phil
bf: Unfortunately, Chris
I liked the variety of songs performed, I like that type of music in general.
Least favorite to most favorite...
6. Lakisha. She's a doll and all, but no on can touch that Fantasia song. She really should have done a classic gospel number or something.
5. Chris. I'm just not much of a fan, but his vocals were fine, no problem.
4. Blake. Maybe he should have been my #5, but I like him more than I like Chris. I think sometimes I'm liking Blake's potential more than I like his actual performances. Or, I've liked some of his past performances, so I hope they'll all be that good. He was middle of the road for me, this time.
3. Phil. Surprise! Phil is high on my list this time! I don't really know that Garth Brooks song, but I thought Phil soared on it! Somehow, by dressing nicely and just standing still, he didn't irritate me, visually.
2. Melinda. I don't know that Faith Hill song, but Melinda really delivered on it! Lovely.
1. Jordin. I love when my favorite(s) do songs that I adore. I have "You'll Never Walk Alone" by *several* artists on my iTunes, and I sing it myself, in karaoke. I LOVE that song (my favorite version is by Elvis)! Honestly, I detected a couple of pitchy moments during her performance, but still, she blew the roof off with it! Great!
I wasn't home when the show was actually on, but I *would* have voted. I suppose now would have been the best time.
Now, to read what you others have posted....
Heh, it's just me and Lash and bf so far....
I think it may be Lakisha who goes.
Man, I love Lakisha, but she is REALLY frustrating me with her song choices. She could have done something really fantastic last night, but she chose that crappy song? She clearly has no imagination when it comes to song choice. Still, I voted like crazy for her, because I want her to outlast Chris (he's adorable, but..), Phil (ick) and even Blake (he's good, but I just never feel "moved" by him).
I would love a Top 3 of Jordin, Melinda and Laksiha, but I don't think that's going to happen. Actually, DialIdol.com predicts the bottom 3 this week will be Blake, Melinda and Chris--but they aren't always reliable. I imagine Lakisha will be in the Bottom 3, and I am HOPING Phil will be there and go home...but I doubt it.
I'm looking forward to seeing all the stars tonight! I hope it doesn't come off super-cheesy. They can fit a LOT of commercials within a two hour show....
My favorite part was Kelly Clarkson's song, then the Celine Dion/Elvis duet.
I love that there was no elimination!
jeff beck on guitar, but i didnt watch it, just caught a glimpse, what the hell was kelly wearing cause she looked pregnant.
Heh! Someone on youtube joked that it was only a special effect making it *look* like Jeff Beck was on stage with Kelly. Hee! I think someone else made a Mama Cass joke about Kelly, but I'm currently denying any such comments about her, cuz I luv 'er too much.
I'm in love with that "Up to the Mountain" number. I've found 2 other artists that have recorded it. Sorry, forgot their names. I'll look 'em up and post....
Hey, what happened to Pink and Gwen Stefani? Dropouts?
*Patty Griffin and/or Solomon Burke
*Up to the Mountain
Solomon Burke sings one of my favourite-ever songs 'Cry To Me' (which was on the 'Dirty Dancing' soundtrack). LOVE that song! Will listen out for his version of 'Up To The Mountain' too.
Well, the crappy song choice continues apace...
Chris: Oh my gods, seriously, Chris is one of the creepiest people I have ever seen in my entire life. Those horrible dead eyes, his twisted snarly little mouth, his hunched wobbling around the stage pretending he can move rhythmyically and his nasal, grating droning just make me want to hide behind the sofa until he goes away. He makes my flesh crawl, he really does. I am no longer amused by the way that he is clearly a pyscopath because it's not a joke, he *really* does look like he's a pyscopath. Who simply isn't a very good singer. Yik.
Melinda: The orchestra needed a bit of a slap here. It's the kind of song that should be left for the singer to build (with the backing singers brining the depth to that) but despite the fact that Melinda is fully capable of doing that she was drowned out fairly badly for the first verse or so. She didn't let her phase that and was pretty bloody good. She sure can belt without losing the tune, which is something that most of the others haven't got. She's very Tina Turner, in a very good way, and I sure hope the rumour that she would have been in the bottom three is wrong because no way in hell should she have been there.
Blake: Here's a suggestion - go to an on-line thesaurus of some kind and look up different ways of saying 'vomit'. Chunder, spew, worship the porcelain god, technicolour yawn, and so on and so forth. Now see if you can guess the link between that game and Blake. Repellant little turd. Fairly horrendously tuneless tonight as well. I really dislike the song to start with but he took a song that I think is hugely over-rated, dull and trite and make it a million times worse than anyone else has. That's quite an achievement. Shame it's a crap achievment.
Lakisha: Dammit but the girl needs to stop shouting. She can sing, no arguement about that, but she really doesn't seem to have much idea about how to actually *perform*. Also the outfit she had on made her look like her boobs were hoiked uop around her chin and still had no shame. She usually looks stunning and this week for some reason she really didn't. I don't know if I can be bothered caring if she stays or goes any more. Which that weren't so, but it is.
Phil: Eh, the Singing Penis was pretty shouty and mostly a bit dull and... eh. My good golly but he looks like a singing penis though.
Jordin: This was actually the first week for a good long while that I've not liked Jordin. Again it's a song that I don't like but she was verging on shouting at points and for the rest of it it was incredibly plodding and just didn't go anywhere. Plus she should really have either been dead and being creepy in a fairground or stood in a football stadium dressed in red and white.
So, apart from Melinda a pretty rubbish week this week. So that was the worst that was to come, yes?
Oh no. No such luck.
Really, did any of you actually sit all the way through the hideous 'Idol Gives Back' bollocks? The embaressing film clips of celebs being earnest made me cringe, Ben Stiller had to have a laugh track over his tedious 'comedy' so that he didn't looks completely stupid (or I guess that was the theory because the laugh track just made it worse) and the actual songs from proper singers were so few and far between (even on the trimmed down version we get here) that there seemed no point. Sure it's good that the programme is trying to make a difference to people that need the help but really if that's the best that they can do then what's the point. What was there about it that actually encouraged people to watch the whole of the programme? No wonder TV telethons in America always clunk so badly if that's the standard of a relativly short charity show. Jeez. The best part of the charity side of things was Cat Deeley talking to Annie Lennox about her own experiences of doing the charity trips to Africa and that wasn't even shown on US tv. It's a bit sad really.
However the worst thing bits were the two songs involving the poor contestants. The Phantom Crap Hat Placer attacked Phil again but whoever decied that the all white look for them all would be a good idea really needs to punched repeatedly. At least Melinda had the good grace to look mortified by the cheesiness of them all dressed like that. And the songs... oh dear lord the songs. What a pile of shite they both were, although Quincy Jones' one was the worst by a margin. The awfully emotive African musical stereotypes, the way the song just plodded and went nowhere, the burbling screeching and groaning that was eminating from the mouths of Blake, Chris and Phil, the general awfullness of it all... urgh. Just, urgh.
Oh, and if I had voted in good faith that I was voting for the contest and then found that those votes actually had nothing to do with the vote I would be fuming. In the UK that would actually be illegal and the programme would be majorly fined for it. You can't sell something as one thing and then say in a twist that it was nothing of the sort. It's false advertising no matter how much money is raised for a good cause at the samed time.
I'm a getting a bit fed up with AI this season. Can we just sack it off and admit that Melinda should be the winner but it'll probably be someone as hideous as Blake. *sigh*
A suprisingly good show tonight, especially considering I'm not the biggest Bon Jovi fan.
Everyone did well, with Jordin probably having the weakest night of the group. Won't hurt her any, I hope.
And tonight Blake gave what has to be the kewlest performance of any AI show ever. I may be deciding he should win over Jordin now (I'm still of the belief Melinda's better off NOT winning ala Clay or Chris Daughtry, and doesn't need this).
So yeah, top 3: Blake, Jordin and Melinda.
I love Bon Jovi, so I was pretty excited to see/hear this show.
My opinions on worst to best...
Chris. He just didn't do anything with the song (which I love) and I'm just not that much of a fan.
Jordin. Weird. She's totally my favorite, but that song is really hard to do, and she did not rally. There must have been *some* other Bon Jovi song she could have done. I loved her big hair, though.
Melinda. I just don't care for that more modern Bon Jovi song, but she did a very good job on it.
Lakisha. Hmm... don't know that song, but she delivered it really, really well. I was giggling as she kissed Simon.
Phil. I LOVE that song and I thought he did a really good job. I'm still not a huge fan, but I do like what I've been hearing from him, lately.
Blake. Well, he was awesome! It was just the right time for him to do the beat-box thing again, and he came up with a very cool arrangement for You Give Love a Bad Name. Way fun!
You're right, Lash (edit--and Dean): Blake sure did steal the show tonight! The Beat Box returned with his most prominent use of it yet. Never thought it would work so well on "You Give Love a Bad Name", but it did! Mega, mega kewl! Amazingly, his voice was very strong on the chorus, making it sound more powerful than I thought it would. Blake was original, and really, really good tonight!
Which two should go? Other than Chris, I'm really torn. Chris definitely needs to go. He's old, old news.
I count myself as a fan of the Singing Penis, and I feel he's aquitted my fandom very well the last three performances. I'll miss him if he goes this week.
Until this week, I was ready to cut Lakisha loose. She's been going very downhill with all the recent theme weeks. But, of all things, she made a comeback on rock week! Damn! I do have issues with her personality. She just seems the least personable of the six finalists.
Okay, as long as Chris goes, I'll be happy if it means Blake, Melinda and Jordin are still in. Those three do too well week-in and week-out to leave at this point. I'd prefer to see the S.P. make it to the Final Four, but I could live with him leaving with Chris as I think he's shown enough to get a record deal.
Justice will be done so long as Chris leaves, whether it's Lakisha or S.P. who goes with him.
Who thought a night of Bon Jovi songs on AI would be so excellent?
Seeya Wednesday night!
Other than Jordin, no one was horrible last night. AI so wants Jordin to win--if Lakisha had mangled a song like that, she would have been raked over the coals. I fear Lakisha will be going home tonight, and it's a shame that she'll go home the week she finally brought back her sass and fire. I thought she was the best last night. Melinda was good, but I wasn't WOWED like I was with Kiki. I need to watch Blake's performance again, I think. I watched it with some friends who all thought it was great, but I was kinda "meh" about it.
With any luck, it'll be Chris and Phil going home. I am sorta over Chris now and I've never cared for Phil.
I know it'll never happen, but a Melinda/Lakisha final 2 would be DIVA-tastic!
Phil needs to stop wearing hats. He can't pull them off and he looks like a big poser.
I thought Blake and Melinda did a great job last night. First time that Blake hasn't sounded strained in his voice. Melinda is just a class above everyone. She know how to sing and perform.
Farewell, Singing Penis...I'll miss ya! I hope you put out one hell of an album next year cuz I'm gonna buy it!
Goodbye, Chris...for the last time, nasal is NOT a singing style!
Well, these results weren't entirely unexpected. What was unexpected was how touching both exits were.
Plus both guys sounded great on their farewell numbers.
And I *really liked* the song Bon Jovi did.
Robin Thicke was, er-- different.
There's a good chance we won't get to see AI this week because we're off up to Glasgow to see some friends but I'm not sorry to see the back of those two. OK so the Singing Penis has actually come on a long way in the last couple of weeks and proved that maybe he did actually deserve to be there after all but the creepy psycho Chris should have been booted a long time ago. Hell, he should have been booted after his 'nasal singing' rubbish. Maybe he will now realise what a stupid thing that was to say in teh first place.
Woo-Hoo, Lakisha made it through!
Nothing can overcome the love between Chris and Blake, apparently. :-)
I'm not surprised by the rejections. I did expect it to be Lakisha instead of Phil, but I'm glad she's still there.
So, it's Blake and the Dream Girls! I'm interested! I like them all, but I'm hopeful for Jordin.
Lessee...
My ideal lineup:
4th place: Lakisha
3rd Melinda
2nd Blake
1st Jordin!
I'll have to go back over this season's threads and see if I've changed my mind much.
Lash, I saw Robin Thicke on Oprah, and all the ladies were *swooning* over him. I didn't get it, either.
Turns out we got home in time to see it this afternoon, so review time...
The Singing Penis: Actually once again Phil was pretty good this week. Not spectacular but he was easily the best boy. He looks most comfortable doing country rock rather than the middle of the road pop he seems to think he's good at. It's just a shame it took him this late in the game to work it out. He probably shoudl have gone before now based on previous performances so it's annoying he's suddenly gotten quite good. Even if he looks like a singing penis...
Jordin: Really not good this week. Vocally one of the weakest performances this week and certainly one of her weakest ones since we first saw her. Huge credit to her for admitting straight away that it wasn't very good. It wasn't awful exactly but it wasn't anything like we've come to expect from her. Very clearly not her musical style though.
Lakisha: oh my, the girl done good finally. This is the kind of thing we know she can do and she has just failed to do since about the first week and finally she shows us why she's there in the first place. It was a brilliant pick of song but it was also an absolutely stunning vocal performace. In fact I would probably say it's one of the best performances of the whole series. If she can do that kind of thing for the next couple of weeks should could actually stand a chance of winning. I would be surprised if she can, but also quite pleased.
Blake: Rachael Hunter (on the UK cut of AI) expressed me feelings almost perfectly. It was one of the most hideous embaressing car crashes I have ever seen. It was juvenile and puerile and just generally awful. His guppy mouth and gormless expressions were not vastly improved by his new haircut and I would rather have root surgery than watch his smug face again. I do wish he'd just get voted off and bugger off.
Chris: Aww, such a shame, the singing psycho has got the boot. That was just an unbelievably dull performance. Absolutely bog all happened with it and his evil piggy eyes were just scary. Yick.
Melinda: Yay! We love Melinda. Bloody good song, bloody good performance. Lakisha maybe was more goosebumply but Melinda was brilliant as ever.
Now if I had my way Blake will get the boot next week because Lakisha manages another brillaint week and then Lakisha will go and we'll get the two divas, Jordin and Mel,inda, left to battle it out for a well deserved title. Unfortunately I have a horrible feeling Blake is going to survive next week and could even make it to the final. I really hope not, but...
OK, Barry Gibb night... me and the bf (or "Greg", as he now wants to be called) watched. Here's what we thought, based on both performances:
ME (from fave to least fave):
Jordin took the night for me. I liked both of her songs a lot.
Lakisha was a lot of fun tonight for me; I didn't know her second song but enjoyed it. It may be too late for her to grow a personality, though.
Blake rocked the first song but I thought the second was a bit iffy.
Melinda I love, but her perfection is growing a little boring for me. Plus who is AI going to market her to (a problem they apparently had with Taylor)?
GREG (from fave to least fave):
Melinda is still the best regardless of a bad night. This was not her best, but still she is always solid!
Blake, to begin with has always been cute.....but he has always been true to his form and it has always been unique. Tonight, maybe he tried to do too much, but was still true to himself.
Jordin is always lovely, but I'll agree that the second choice left much to be desired. I would still love for her to stay and think she should, but I did not think she has been as solid as others of late.
Lakisha has never been one of my faves since the first week. Tonight was no exception. She can belt out a song but there is a fine line.
Melinda's first song was okay, but had no wow factor.
Blake's first song was okay, but had no wow factor.
Lakisha did a terrible job on her first song.
Jordin was AWESOME with her first song.
Melinda's second song was a great choice, but she didn't do it all that well, IMO. She didn't give it the tenderness and heartache it needed. Ruben did this song SO well in season 2.
Blake's voice sounded really good a few times during his second song, but otherwise it was basically kinda dull.
Lakisha did a lot better with her second song, but she seemed to run out of steam.
I didn't think Jordin's second song was all that pitchy, but it's hard to not compare it to Barbra Streisand's version.
Not such a great night, overall. Jordin's first song was best in show.
I'm thinking Lakisha could be out, but Blake's in danger, too. If Melinda or Jordin go, it'll be a giant upset.
Everyone was on overall disappoint last night. Jordin can't seem to do anything but ballads. I still like Melinda.
Two questions though....
1. What was wrong with Barry Gibbs lip.
2. Also has he always sounded like Sean Connery?
Something else else fun borrowed from Yellow Kid's BITS thread! (click to enlarge)
<span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">Well, this wasn't entirely unexpected. Lakisha's gone.</span></span>
I'll be interested to see if <span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">Blake</span></span> can get past either Jordin or Melinda to make the final.
Dialidol.com had <span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">Blake</span></span> listed as # 1 after Tuesday night's show and <span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">Lakisha</span></span> in last place, so who knows...
I just wish they didn't stretch this out into an hour long show. It just feels like a long commercial for everthing...Ford, the Fantastic Four movie, Pink's album, all the actual commercials, etc, etc.
Sorry, the medley's are corny. I've rarely enjoyed one over the years.
The result was no surprise.
This is what I posted a month ago. I was pretty close....
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
None of this shocks me. It's very Idol formula. I mean, yeah, Gina's better than Phil or Haley, so they should have gone earlier. Sanjaya is a novelty that won't wear off. Blah blah blah... The bottom half is always like this.
I start to get bothered when people who should be out sometime around the middle get to the top.
Here's my dream placement:
8. Phil
7. Haley
6. Sanjaya
5. Chris
4. Lakisha
3. Blake
2. Melinda
1. Jordin
If 8-5 make it past 4, that'll bug me.
(Still, even when I've been annoyed with the show, I've never vowed to quit watching!)
Blake is dreamy. This show was dreamy too, especially after last week's. I shall never watch a BeeGees-themed night again--what a waste. Good job to each of the final three!
Yes, the final three were out to WIN! I was really looking forward to each performance.
1. Jordin
a. I think she did a perfectly good job with her first song, starting off soft and sweet and building to big and dramatic.
b. Her second song was well done, too, but I don't care for it. That'd be the judges' fault, though.
c. I think it was very smart for her to do a song that people seem to like from her so well. If you go to youtube or iTunes, it's HUGE there.
2.Blake
a. Well, he was awesome tonight! Roxanne is a VERY difficult song, and he did it without making it a Sting impersonation.
b. Maroon 5 is the *perfect* choice for him! Great job, producers!
c. LOVE that song!!!! I remember it from MTV or VH1, but never knew the name of the artist OR the name of the song, so I'm SO glad Blake brought it back, to make it famous!
Melinda
a. She's a force of nature at this point. She did a very good job on a beautiful Whitney Houston song. She didn't turn it into an impersonation either.
b. WOW! Nutbush City Limits is a MAJOR song from my childhood, so I was thrilled to have Melinda performing it! Love when that happens!
c. Again, a good idea for her to repeat a fan favorite. I support that idea. My wife thinks they shouldn't do that, but we'll just agree to disagree.
I want all of them to win! Can't we just have a three way tie? Okay, I'm going to totally change my mind and decide to keep Blake and Melinda.
No, I can't reject Jordin!
Um... I can't reject Blake or Melinda, either...
Lessee....
Okay, reject Jordin.
Owie!
Dean, I could pretty much just quote your post and stop.
I love all three of them at this point and want them all to be winners.
But if forced, I'll say....
MELINDA took the night for me. There IS no better.
BLAKE came in second, it would take very LITTLE work to make him a colossal star right now.
And JORDIN... grudgingly... takes my bottom spot for last night.
I think it'll go down between Melinda and Blake. I think Melinda and Jordin's votes will get split in favour of Melinda; the Jordin voters should go to Melinda, but with Blake's youth and tweenie-bopper appeal he might pull out the winner. Has he ever been in the bottom 2?
SPOILER WARNING!!!
DO NOT READ IF YOU HAVEN'T SEEN THE RESULTS SHOW YET!!
I AM NOT KIDDING!!
Back out of the thread and come back after you've seen the results!
.
.
.
.
Well.
That was unexpected.
I think I heard about 10 million AI veiwers let out a collective gasp when Melinda was announced to be going home.
I had certainly considered the idea that Melinda's perfection might border on boring for some younger voters, or that AI producers might have a marketing problem with her, but the idea that she wouldn't be in the finale never crossed my mind, really.
I'm happy for Blake and Jordin and am looking forward to next week.
I'm also happy for Melinda. She's gonna be NOVA hot and people are going to be lined UP to work with her. My family is already anticipating her album.
I have to say, I no longer care who wins. Melinda was so far beyond the other two finalists...they weren't on the same playing field!!!
That was a surprise. I'm disappointed more folks didn't vote for Melinda, but given the lack of screaming pre-teens shown during her visit home, perhaps I should have guessed it. I can still look forward to next week--partly because, for me, Melinda had already won a few weeks ago. I suppose I slightly favor Blake for next week if only so I won't have to hear "You're only 17" repeatedly, plus he's from the Northwest. But, they're both at about the same talent level IMO.
Dissapointed is not the word for the results last night!! Melinda was clearly the best this season and should have at least been in the finals. I do agree the producers probably wanted Blake and Jordin because of the marketability factor but, it was still so wrong!! This is exactley why votes should be limited. When you have a bunch of hormonal pre-pubescent teeny-boppers voting the results are gonna suck!! After Scary Underwear won season 4, I vowed to never watch again, ( how Bo did not win is beyond me) and I am glad I did not watch last years fiasco when Taylor Hicks won (should have been Chris D). I only tuned in this year when a friend showed me Lakisha's Dreamgirl performance and Melinda. Once again I was hooked. But, on the bright side, Melinda is going to be UBER HOT!!!! I have never bought a CD from an idol contestant (winner or loser) but will definitly buy Melinda's!! Congrats to Melinda and can't wait to hear from her soon. As far as the other 2 go...I don't care which one wins and will not tune in to watch. I can do with out the "only 17" and beat boxing on every song. Gets real old real fast! Sanjaya might as well have won!
If any of you have read any of my posts, you know that I like Blake and Jordin quite a bit, so I'm happy for both of them.
Melinda's departure was definitely a surprise! I've never considered that she wouldn't be in the finale.
Blake's a local, so I feel kinda obligated to back him, but I've been a Jordin fan for a long time.... I don't know who I want to win.
I've really enjoyed this season, especially more than last season. Yeah, some of the top ten weren't so hot, but the good ones have been good.
I'll be watching the finale, for sure!
...and posting about it.
If I can get all sappy for a sec...
Coming here to post and read others' posts about this show that has become such a big and fun part of my life is a HUGE part of the overall AI joy for me. I'm so glad this thread is here, as the AI MB and the Yahoo group are, at best, an insane hurricane of activity that I find it difficult to maintain any desire to keep up with.
So *hugs* to everyone who posts here, and especially Dean for starting the thread!
End sappiness. Let's all watch the finale pantsless!!!!
I watch -everything- pantsless...
I've felt since we got into the top ten that this year's American Idol might very well be Jordin. However, I was beginning to wonder about that since Bon Jovi night because Jordin's performances have been somewhat sub-par, at least for her, from that night on. Like Simon, after Tuesday, I believed Melinda was a shoo-in for the finale and that Jordin might be vulnerable.
Honestly, the last person I thought would be leaving as second runner-up after Tuesday's performances would be Melinda. She gave such a tour de force Tuesday that it's hard to believe. Honestly, I felt Jordin was third-best Tuesday.
Blake has been my personal favorite (second favorite was Phil
) since I started tuning in to AI the last three weeks of the all-boys and all-girls eliminations. I haven't loved every single performance from him as certain theme weeks didn't suit him, especially "Imagine" for Inspiration Week and last week's Bee Gees/Disco Week where the beat-boxing really felt forced. But the thing is, in general Blake's stuff is very hip and fresh and distinct from all the other contestants this season. And in addition to the beat-boxing, he's proven he can sing really well. For the perfect example, I never imagined he could do what he did with "You Give Love a Bad Name" on Bon Jovi Week. Even with the fun beat-boxing prominent in that performance, I was most surprised that his voice showed such power in the chorus. Wow!
But Jordin probably has the edge with voters. She can sing like all giddy-yup, and she's the perfect age for AI's core younger audience. I think she's the next American idol. If Blake has a chance to win, he'll have to be truly extraordinary and take more risks in the finale.
Either way, I'll be satisfied. Both have reams of talent, and I know Melinda will land on her feet. All three have bright futures!
Bum.
Although considering previous years and the age range of voters I'm not hugely surprised. I'd be perfectly happy if Jordin wins but I will be gutted if that hideous little turd Blake does.
Still, being shackled with the AI winner title can be as much a curse as a blessing, especially for someone like Melinda who isn't standard teen pop material, so she should still be assured of a career. She just needs to make sure she picks the right songs and aims for a market where she's likely to get long term sucess (ie: not the here-today-gone-tomorrow pop market).
The New York Times gave Fantasia a great review of her role in The Color Purple.
Jordin was pretty good, Blake was absolutely bloody appaling, Melinda was absolutely stunning. I choose to believe that she went simply because everyone assumed she was safe and so voted for whichever of the other two they wanted to be in the final and she lost out. That or the majority of Americans are stupid.
No. Just the majority that watch
AI or voted for Duh-bya.
HEY!
There's a big debate here amongst my AI-watching friends about exactly WHAT musical genre should Melinda release her first album in.
Me, I say... COUNTRY.
Why? She ruled country week, plus she has the experience (backup singer for country group Alabama) plus country fans would totally embrace her (Nashville-area native), plus Country music is the one genre that has suffered the least from the downloading explosion.
Just my opinion, what do YOU think?
Let's hear from my mega-hot BF Greg first....
I was appalled that Melinda was booted. Not to say that I am totally upset about it. I personally think that it is the best for her. She is not tied into the AI contract so she can record as she wishes. I am pleased with the final 2 how it turned out regardless.
I will agree, she should probably release a country album. Being from Nashville she would definately have an in.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
HEY!
Not that I meant to lump the two groups together, sorry...
There's a big debate here amongst my AI-watching friends about exactly WHAT musical genre should Melinda release her first album in.
Me, I say... COUNTRY.
'Sfunny, all these kids coming up through
AI to become country recording artists... Carrie, "French Pickler", Bevis's boy Bucky
. I thought country had their own
AI--
Nashville Star, or somesuch. To be fair, that show is sorta "preaching to the choir", whereas they're all reaching a larger fanbase with
Idol.
And the Country music fan community is alot more generous to
Idol contestants; Even non-winners like Kelly and Bucky are having multiple hits. What've Ruben, Clay, Justin, Bo or Taylor done? Some have had some initial success, but fleeting. Even Kelly Clarkson, arguably the most successful
AI contestant outside that genre, seems to be testing the Country waters-- she was a performer on the CMT's tribute to Reba McEntire, and is slated to do a
CMT Crossroads special with her.
K-Pickles' CD was a ton of fun, I still listen to it and am glad I bought it.
I've seen Bucky's video, it seemed okay, wasn't able to pay enough attention to it.
And Carrie... every song I've heard off her album (five songs, I think) has been really good.
re: country music, I've also heard that Bon jovi's upcoming album will be very southern-tinged, and that Sheryl Crow and Jewel's next albums will be full-blown country albums.
Jewel in particular seemed put out with the state of top 40 these days in an article I read, preferring country as a genre that still appreciates the singer/songwriter.
Yeah... Michelle Branch left the pop scene to start up The Wreckers with Jessica Harp.
My double-take of the day... I was watching The Tube, an all-music video network and the video for "I'm Feeling You" by Michelle and Carlos Santana had Jess as Michelle's backup singer. I had to google it to find out she was Michelle's regular backup.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
K-Pickles' CD was a ton of fun, I still listen to it and am glad I bought it.
I've seen Bucky's video, it seemed okay, wasn't able to pay enough attention to it.
And Carrie... every song I've heard off her album (five songs, I think) has been really good.
re: country music, I've also heard that Bon jovi's upcoming album will be very southern-tinged, and that Sheryl Crow and Jewel's next albums will be full-blown country albums.
Jewel in particular seemed put out with the state of top 40 these days in an article I read, preferring country as a genre that still appreciates the singer/songwriter.
Kell-P's
I Wonder is a tearjerker, and I really like Bucky's
A Different World. Finally found a Carrie song I could get into with
Wasted!
And Bon Jovi did a
CMT Crossroads with Sugarland that I loved, after Jennifer Nettles did backing vocals on BJ's
You Can't Go Home.
Sounds like alot of established artists are getting sick of the fickle top 40 pop scene, not just the up-and-comers. Say what you will about country, but the fans are longterm... unless you piss 'em off like the Dixie Chicks.
(-I- still
'em...
)
Melinda's songs have to be bluesy and sassy and have a kick, for her to be at her best. I don't really think of her as a contemporary R&B artist and she's not straight pop (like Jordin), so I suppose country would be a pretty dang good fit for her!
I wish there didn't have to be categories, but I understand their neccessity.
Well, I'm glad Jordin didn't get cut last week, as I imagined she might, because she was really good. She sounded great on each of the songs she did, and I totally fell for the way she kinda choked with emotion at the end of the new song.
Blake put on a great show, too, but his vocals did seem thinner, overall. He'll still get a big career out of this, I'm sure.
Jordin certainly got to highlight her vocals. I'm not sure what Blake was up to, but none of his performances really had the impact they should have. With just the two of them, the show fell a bit on the entertainment register. Tonight's is supposed to be the blow-out, but I don't think I can bring myself to watch two hours built around a forgone conclusion (Jordin) or a saddling of recrimination (Blake).
How Randy can parrot the "It's a singing contest" line over and over the week after Melinda was eliminated is beyond me.
Peter Noonan said it best when he corrected Cowell in saying that this was "a voting contest", not necessarily a singing contest. I concur.
Congratulations to <span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">JORDIN</span></span> who will make a very sweet, classy and talented Idol.
And of course I'll be watching for news re: the workings of our runners-up <span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">BLAKE and MELINDA!</span></span>
I kinda thought tonight's finale kicked ass. I especially liked that there were SOOOOO many past AI folk performing. As it should be, I think!
I really enjoyed the show and I'm happy for the winner.
They've started airing commercials....
I read somewhere that they intend on letting the viewers get to know the contestants better this season, and it would seem that they've started with the auditions. I do hope the girl with the adorable daughter with the medical condition and the super supportive family does well. Also, the football playing girl who got the group hug was so cute! A couple of hotties were really hot and the Star Wars dork girl was quite a character. She could use some anger management classes, though.
It was a very entertaining show. Plenty of the usual. I still think there are too many weeks of auditions, but their formula works so I'll be patient as I wait for the real competition to start.
I was glad they seemed to be concentrating more on the better singers last night. Usually it's about 80% bad auditions/20% good. Last night's ratio seemed much better.
I thought the Grace Slick-sounding chick sang great (and I liked her artwork) but she blew it by going totally nutso.
This year I'm predicting which castoffs from the auditions will be brought back and featured on the big finale in May.
Last night's most likely:
Temptress Brown (group hug girl)
Alexis/Nutty Grace Slick Chick
Star Wars Dork Girl
I liked everyone I saw who passed through well enough.
IT SHOULD BE NOTED:
I got Blake Lewis' cd for Christmas (I asked for it). It's GOOD!
Just when I'd given up hope for any original compositions tonight (like last night's awful "No Sex Allowed" and the potentially hilarious "Stalk Her"), the final contestant gave us "Brothers Forever". By the 7th or 8th repeat, I was getting into it. Its now ingrained into my psyche. Dude is definite material for the finale in May. He was so polite and sweet too.
Both boys from Mississippi were HAWT. Riiiiiiiiilly SUPER-hawt. I could even deal with the first dude's fingernail collection, if pressed.
*contented sigh* I've missed AI!
I accidentally tuned in for a minute the other day.
They were auditioning; the guy was awful, I mean AWFUL, and 2/3 of the judges were cracking up he was so bad.
I truly think the selection people must have deliberately encouraged bad talent to come forward for the amusement factor. I truly wish I could believe the person was an actor playing an awful singer, not a genuine awful singer with dreams greater than his talents being chewed up solely as a gag.
Either way, I feel quite justified in never watching the show again. No offense to its fans.
Drew Poppelreiter - Tractor Boy from Mississippi is his name and he is hot! I vote for the good old country boy.
Not sure if anyone still watches this show... but for those who saw tonight's San Diego auditions I have some exciting news - a friend of mine was one of the ones who made it through!
His name is Michael Lee (going by Michael Lee Johns on this show though) and he is the Australian guy who sang the Otis Redding song!
Here's hoping that this season's 'Legion World representative' lasts at least as long as the last one (Kid Prime's cousin Diana Degarmo) did!
Blacula,
I just want you to know that I'm a BIG fan of Otis Redding. I LOVE his work. Your friend did a VERY good job with the song, I was impressed. I'm always happy to support the Aussies because I spent two years of my life in Australia as a child. Also, I'm sure many people will find your friend to be a hottie, so that should surely help him. Give him a choc-o-block of good wishes!
If I'm not mistaken, there should be a lot of really cute blonde girls in the Hollywood rounds. Personally, I'm happy with that!
Hey Sketchy - I am a *HUGE* Otis Redding fan too! So much so that if I ever had a son - he'd be named Otis!
I always find it incredible that he was only 26 at the time of his death and yet he left such an amazing body of work behind him. It's tragic to think about what more he would've given to music had he lived.
And I thought Michael did a great version of his song too. As Randy said he did kinda make it his own, while at the same time leaving intact so much of what makes Redding's original so classic. That's not easy to do.
As usual, the auditions are pretty entertaining, but I really prefer getting into the real competition and performances.
Wow! I like SO many of the singers from the Hollywood rounds. I think this is going to be a really good season!
that josiah kid is amazing...he's great talent.
this should be a great season!
We're a few days late as usual (the audition rounds have been Thursday/Friday night the week they go out in the US so I think the rest of the run will all be on Friday nights) and I missed a lot of the early auditions but there are some interesting people this year. They seem to have put a lot more people through that aren't just mainstream pop-bunnies, although that doesn;t mean they'll get beyond the Hollywood rounds.
Couple of people really stood out for me. There was the boy who said his mother wanted to raise a homecoming queen and was just disappointed it wasn't one of her daughters. We liked him. We also really liked the girl whose father had died a couple of days before the audition. She had a lovely voice. The two huge black girls who auditioned together (one liked Simon and one liked Randy) were also a big surprise in just how good they were. Oh, and we liked the blonde girl who came on and Paula asked to go away and learn a Dolly Parton song. Paula was absolutely right in asking her to do that since she had something about her that we liked a lot.
I read somewhere before this season began that there'd be more of an emphasis on getting to know the contestants instead of a bunch of guest celebrity judges and so on. I can totally feel that. I'm going to miss some of the people they've highlighted throughout the audition rounds. (Not naming names yet.)
So, as I've said, I look forward to this season. I think some very good talent has made it and I think there are a lot of singers who I have no idea what they're like. I love Tuesday nights!
Well, this season's top 12 guys might be the most doable ever, even without Drew and homeless lad making it (I was devestated, BTW)! I am, like, TOTALLY in love with Colton, Michael Lee Johns, hippie blonde rocker guy, dreadlocks, knocked-up girlfriend guy, the sissy, that Lief Garrett-looking kid and especially that dark-haired 16 year old sweet, polite kid. I would totally make him my child bride. He is PRECIOUS, every time I see him I giggle with glee. He makes me want to give him money and stuff.
And the lasses! LOVE me some Asia, the plus-model girl, Carly, the Rouge-haired nurse Janis Joplin soul-rock chick (WHEW!!), and the blonde chick they compared to Carly Simon (NOT kristy Lee Cook, whom I am as yet unsure can sing anything other than "Amazing Grace").
AI makes me actually look forard to Monday because I know Tuesday is coming next.
I'm really not sure about Janis Joplin II. She's got soemthing about her btu I'm not convinced that she's anything other than a decent singer who would work better as a Janis Joplin tribute act than as a solo artist in her own right.
The contestants' profile page is done!
http://www.americanidol.com/contestants/season7/ I find it helpful, because I can never remember many names.
Hey Lash, the Leif Garrett looking kid is named Garret Haley, so I know I'll totally be calling him Leif Garrett Haley.
Janice Joplin Junior is named Amanda Overmyer...Amando?
Looking forward to Tuesday!!!
I'm rooting for Ramielle Malubay (little girl with BIG voice - maybe she can be Shrinking Violet?) myself. I admit I may be a bit biased, since she's Filipina, but so far she's shown she can sing,so I don't care. so Oh, and Brooke White and Carly, and Joanne the plus-sized model. They're all great. And I wanna hear more of Amanda the rock nurse.
Also Alexandrea, whose audition we saw before she was totally forgotten during Hollywood, only to resurface as one of the Top 24.
I just find it so unfair that there are a bunch of people in the Top 24 who have had such little screen time. They should have at least shown us clips of 'em singing during the last episode!
Originally posted by fjm:
that josiah kid is amazing...he's great talent.
this should be a great season!
Josiah and his song choice of "Grace Kelly" got a blip on yahoo! as having the highest searches of all American Idol info. Interesting. I agree that he is really talented, but he really blew it when he didn't work with the band and then did that weird "Stand By Me" audition. Oh well, he's young. He'll figure it out.
IB, I can't feel too sorry for those who made it to the top 24. I mean, yeah, maybe others (like Josiah) got more screen time, but they're gone now!
I've got two yummy favorites who can actually sing. Brooke White (the curly blonde folksy girl) and Michael Johns (the Aussie). If they perform as well during the competition as well as they have so far, I'd love them to be the final two.
Josiah sucked. His cocky attitude and not brilliant voice didn't endear him to me at all.
Alexandrea Lushington needs to do well just because of her rather fabulous name. I don;t really remember if she's any good as a singer but that name rocks.
Michael Johns I like a lot and the Irish girl is fabulous. It would amuse me hugely if the final two of American Idol happened to not be Americans.
A pretty good bunch this year actually. There are the usual pretty but slightly dull girls in there but the girls that do have somethign about them are pretty darn good. I love Syesha as well and Brooke has soemthing about here that I like a lot. The boys don't grab me so much for the most part but there's no-one this year that I have an instant dislike for. Could be an interesting year...
Haven't been able to get into the show this year (competing against the Biggest Loser which I'm watching for inspiration). But I think the Irish girl, Carly Smithson, should be disqualified immediately. She's already had a major record contract with MCA and had an album released. This contest is supposed to be for undiscovered talent, not talent that bombed out of their first recording contract (her album sold only 400 units in three months). The Wall Street Journal even did an article based on her in 2002 because of her spectacular flop.
I'd be interested on what the rules are with that. A fair few of the people have been on it in the past have been working as singers for a while although i don't recall any of them ever having had a recording contract in the past. The problem would be that you'd have to make a rule saying what level of sucess you can have before you are disqualified and that's bound to cause problems, especially in this age of on-line record releases and such.
AH!
Bevis, I forgot how blatant your AI opinions are! I was going to complain that it isn't very nice to say someone sucks when others in the thread have posted their delight with that person, but then I remembered that your comments are biting and searing and usually pretty funny even if I don't always agree with them.
There are 5 hours of Idol this week, starting tonight. I don't think that even I have the tenacity to sit through all that. The good news is I have TiVo, so I can watch it in bits, and spread it out over the weekend if I need to.
This is probably the best week each year for Idol viewers. This is the week to find out who can really sing (since before we've just gotten snippets), to find out who really sucks, to choose our favorites and to identify the awful singer that the teenage girls will put through to the finals. I'm really looking forward to this.
The guys are really the best in years. My top 3 in order, are Michael Johns (the Aussie), David Archuleta, and David Cook. The worst were Chickezie, Garrett Haley, and Luke Menard. The other boys are all pretty good and are contenders. My worst picks should not be on the show.
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
I was going to complain that it isn't very nice to say someone sucks when others in the thread have posted their delight with that person, but then I remembered that your comments are biting and searing and usually pretty funny even if I don't always agree with them.
Heh, that's half the fun with AI and it's like. They're supposed to be the best singers the county has to offer so that ones that aren't deserve my full analysis.
Plus when it comes to music you've always got a really interesting split in terms of opinions. Something else else that I love the next person hates and vice versa. Besides, wouldn;t it all be a bit boring if you didn't have me ranting every week?
I have to say though this year, with what I've seen so far, there's no-one that I really don't like. A fair few of the final 24 I don't remember seeing at all during the audition/Hollywood rounds and there area few that just seem a little dull but there are some pretty interesting people in their too. David Archuleta interests me because he looks so small and young and then has an absolutely belting voice. Same goes for Noriega (sp?) who could become annoying quickly but has a hell of a voice.
The girls I'm not so sure about. Not many of them really grabbed my as being instantly brilliant with maybe the exception of Syesha and the Irish lass. The singing nurse I like but I just don't think at the moment she's got anythign that sets her apart from Janis Joplin or Marianne Faithful or someone. She's good at what she does but what she does has been done before, if you know what I mean. Simon had it right during the Hollywood round when he said she's very good but even before she starts singing you know exactly what the song is going to sound like and she needs to learn to put a bit more light and shade into her performance. She is the kind of performer that could easily blossom though.
I'm about to go watch the girls..the guys were pretty good last night. I liked the dreadlocked boy the best (Jason?)...that lil David Archuletta is a cute kid, but I fear a crash and burn. The Aussie guy and the former boy band rocker just seem like posers. Danny (Flame On!) Noriega is fun. The rest were just kinda meh for me, but at least no one out and out SUCKED.
I like to do countdown style reviews, from worst to best...
Luke sounded like Kenny Loggins, which isn't all that bad, but it was SUCH a dull song.
Colton grinned and danced around to "Suspicious Minds." Colton, "Suspicious Minds" is not a happy joyful song!
Chikezie looked ridiculous in his orange leisure suit! What? He sang something? Didn't notice.
Jason...Moon River? I hope his grandma liked it. I fell asleep.
Leif Garrett Haley... I just don't care for his kind of voice. Personal preference thing. Terrible lighting. It did make him look sickly.
David Hernandez... Good start. I got distracted during the middle. That shouldn't happen.
Danny Noriega... NO NO NO! Jailhouse rock? Wrong!
Robbie Caraco... I don't remember what he did. It must not have been that bad.
David Cook... Don't remember his song, but I'm sure it wasn't that bad.
Michael Johns... it was good but it didn't blow me away.
Jason Castro... he's one that I had no idea what would happen. I really liked his performance. I was pleasantly surprised.
David Archuleta... really charming, great song, my wife kept calling him cute, cute, cute.
Okay--just watched the girls. I liked Alaina "More Today Than Yesterday" and Ramilee "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me" the best.
Carly, aka "the one who had a contract" just leaves me kind of cold. I liked parts of AlexANDREA's "Spinning Wheel" and Joanne's "Say a Little Prayer". Brooke "Happy Together" has a sunny, hippy vibe that I kind of like (she should duet with Jason Castro), and Asia'h was pretty good on "Piece of My Heart".
Sayesha and Amanda rocked out, but I'd kind of like to hear them, you know, SING.
Kady IS more fun when she's imitating Britney. She started off pretty good but it bogged down. I think that's everyone, other than the poor girl who butchered "Where The Boys Are" and bought herself a ticket home.
Overall, I think the boys were better last night.
THE GUYS
Lotta hotties. Those rating an 8 or higher on my 1-10 scale of sexiness:
David H, Robbie, David (17), Danny, Luke, Colton, Jason "Dreads" (WICKED pretty face!) and Michael.
Unfortunately, looks can't keep Luke from going home... I thought he was the worst. Chikezie, "Leif" Garrett and "Moon River" Jason shouldn't get too comfortable either.
So, setting hotness aside for a second, who performed how? I actually thought "I want to give you money" cutie-17 David was overpowered by the band and backup singers. Punky David Cook did a fun version of "Happy Together", Robbie worked out "1", and I rather enjoyed the gayification of Elvis as performed by the sissy squadron of Danny and Colton. Michael was great but I couldn't escape the "I can sing THAT song!" karaoke-lover in me. I wasn't as in love with Jason Castro's performance as others were, but there is definitely something there.
It will be a blasphemy if any guy other than Luke, Chikezie, "Moon River" Jason or Garrett goes home.
THE DAMSELS
Kristi Lee Cook needs to find a way to sing "Amazing Grace" every week.
I was SOOOoooo disappointed by Joanne.
Alaina "Carrie Underwood with a slight gap" was REALLY good.
Amanda-- that has got to be one of the ballsiest female performances I've seen on AI. LOVE her AND her Winehousian 'do.
Amy-- *chortle!* "Where the Boys Are"? Did she really think this would go over well with the judges? It did annoy me that Randy mistook the Connie Francis song for Patsy Cline (did Patsy ever cover it?).
Brooke wasn't anywhere near the best, but *I* like her.
Alexandrea: I **LOVED**. Her look, her performance, LOVED it.
Kady will do something fun next time, if she survives. And a real cutie.
Asia'h kicked freakin' ASS. Probably my favorite, performance-wise.
I was prepared to hate Ramiele for doing a song I consider to now be owned by former AI fave Nadia Turner, but she worked it out. Her Winehousian 'do was also a plus.
Syesha... ballsy up there with Amanda (and the afore-mentioned Nadia Turner).
Carly... feh. I've grown weary of her.
The bell tolls for these belles: Amy, Kristi Lee and Joanne, start packing.
OMG, Thursday night is just going to KILL me!
It's frustrating for me that the one time I know someone on one of these types of shows I'm not in America to soak up the atmosphere and excitment but am instead back home in Perth on holiday!
And I don't even have the channel here that shows American Idol.
I did manage to catch Mike's performance on youtube though and I gotta say - I didn't like it. It wasn't terrible but an uninspired song choice and a strangely flat vocal just left me unimpressed. I didn't see any of the other guys to compare him with but I think he has to lift his game from here if he wants to stay 'til the end.
re: the first 3 rejects
I wholeheartedly approve
re: the 4th reject
NOOOOOOOOooooooOOOOOOOO!
How he fared worse than the awful Luke and Chikezie I cannot fathom. Of course, I didn't vote either. Shame on me.
And poor Danny was brokenhearted to see his lover get the axe... it was SO sad!
Wow, I really thought Jacuzzi Easy would get the boot. Ah well, the other guy didn't have a prayer of winning, so might as well leave now.
I wish they'd save these theme nights until it's the actual Top 12.
OK, so because of the way ITV showed the boys last night (splitting it into two hour long shows) I only saw the first six because the second hour clashed with The Sarah Connor Chronicles so I recorded the second half and shall watch it this weekend sometime (since there's two hours of the girls tonight so I probably won't get the chance to watch teh rest of the boys).
So the ones I did watch...
David Hernandez. Hideous shirt for a start. But other than that he was pretty darn good. He didn;t make much of an impression on me during the auditions and while he did need to loosen up a little he can sing pretty darn well and he's got a fair bit of charm to him.
Jacuzzi Easy. Bleurgh. The suit was absolutely hideous and should never have appeared on stage. The performance as well was just naff. It's not that he can't sing (although there were some pretty duff notes in there) but Simon was right when he said it was horribly dated and just didn't work. His whining that it's hard to do anythign modern with a 60s song was clearly complete rubbish since most of the others managed to do something interesting with their songs.
David Cook. I really, really didn't like it. Of the six that I saw he's probably the weakest singer and there's just something a bit slimy about him. I don't rate him as a singer or performer and he comes across as just being a bit garulous to me. I'm not a fan of Mr Cook at all.
Jason. Oh dear lord, that was cheesy. It was like he thinks that Andy Willimas is the height of fashion and that all he needed to do was make it even cheesier and saccharine and he'd wow everyone. The most annoying thing about his performance is that he's cleary a bloody good singer but the performance was so naff that I could barely watch it.
Robbie. Now this one surprised me because I'd really not rated him during the auditions either. He just didn't seem very interesting. And while I can see where Simon was coming from with hsi comments about not being sure about him being a rocker his performance this week was actually very good. He's very slick (which is maybe where teh questioning his rock sensibilites comes from) but he's a very good singer and he's got something very appealing about him.
and then finally (of the ones I saw) we had little David Archuleta. Bloody hellfire the boy is good. He could so easily slip into being a bit annoying and precocious but he's got an absolutely incredible singing voice and is incredibly cute. He's charming and modest without it being false modesty and is easily the best of the ones I saw by a mile. My only worry with him would be that since he is so much younger than the others (and looks younger still) that he might burn out early and never quite live up to hsi full potential.
Just foudn out who went. The two boys are fine with me (even though I've not actually seen their performances this week, but neither of them did anything for me during the auditions) and one of the girls I don't even vaguely remember from teh auditions. The other one I thought had potential but I'm maybe not as upset as I might have been if I'd seen more of what she could do.
I didn't get a chance to review the girls! I'm gonna do it anyway!
Okay, least favorite to most favorite...
Amy Davis... where the notes aren't.
Kady ....snore....
Joanne... shriek!
Kristy Lee...she looked cute, but the song was too big for her.
Alexandrea... she looked 40, sounded okay.
Brooke... I want her to do better than she actually did.
Amanda... I liked the edge, but where were the vocals?
Carly... kinda cool, jazzy. I'm supposed to appreciate that she was even able to get up there, right?
Ramiele.. really cute and she did fine, but that's Nadia's song.
Alaina.. cute and fun, good job!
Asia'h. I love her!!! Fun and soulful, really entertaining.
Syesha. I love her too!! A well done big finish will impress me everytime. A touch of diva?
I'm totally fine with the eliminations.
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
Ramiele.. really cute and she did fine, but that's Nadia's song.
*ahem* That's Dusty Springfield's song.
Hah! I know.
I mean in the Idol Universe, no once has been able to cover Dusty's song better than Nadia did in season 5. I feel that way about a lot of performances on Idol.
Right, after a long weekend I'm back to whitter about the other six boys and all twelve girls. Boys first...
Danny Noriega. I was slightly disappointed with him to be honest. He's shown in teh audition rounds how good a singer he is but his peformance was just a bit blah. Misjudged maybe rather than bad exactly but he needs to be better than that if he's going to go any further.
Ellen Degeneres. Now I don't see why he got voted off at all. He didn't do a brilliant performance but he certainly wasn't bad and he's got quite a nice voice.
Garrett. Bleurgh. He's not going to be missed. Not a good performance and just lacking anything really appealing about him.
Luke. Ooooh, bad. Very, very bad. I suspect the reason he didn't get voted off is because he's quite good looking. It'll be a miracle if he gets into the top twelve though.
Michael Johns. Again I was a bit disappointed with him. It wasn't a bad performance and I think he'll probably be OK into getting through to the top twelve but I wanted him to wow me and he didn't. Possibly he's set his own bar so high with the audition performance of Bohemian Rhapsody that he might be in trouble if he doesn't reach that standard every week.
Jason Castro. Now I have no idea why I like Jason so much, but I do. I agree that he might have been even better if he had just done it on his own with the guitar (which is saying a lot about how good he is) but it was a beautifully underplayed, simple performance that showed off his voice incredibly well. He's also got a huge amount of charm to him and comes across as being a genuinely nice guy. We like him a lot.
So top six boys? Hmmm. David Archuleta and Jason Castro definately. Michael Johns, Robbie and David Hernandez probably and Danny Noriega probably making up the sixth. The others don;t desrve to be there to my mind. Which probably means they'll all be there and the really good ones will get the boot...
And then there were the girls...
Alaina. Erm.... I have absolutely no recollection of her. What did she do? Clearly nothing memorable.
Alexandrea. OK, the name is a win on it's own. Her performance was pretty good. Nothing amazing but I quite liked her.
Amanda. She's losing it for me. She can sing and there's soemthign quite appealing about her but she's very samey and I don't know if she'll be able to last the distance.
Amy. SQUACK!! SHRIEK! NeRF! Oh dear, she was rather awful wasn;t she. Very pretty young girl but if that's the best she can do then she clearly deserved the boot.
Asia'h. T'he rand'om extr'a pun'ctuat'ion in' h'er na'me bu'gs me' m'ore tha'n 'it sh'ould, but she was pretty good.
Brooke. I suspect it wasn't anything as good as she has the potential to be. There's soemthing interesting about her but she's got to be careful not to be so 'nice' that she sort of fades into the background. She could be great though.
Carly. Hmm. Not up to the level that she's set already. She looked really uncomfortable and while she wasn't bad she wasn't great either.
Joanne. Well she wasn't bad exactly, but it wasn't very good. It was just a bit dull. Maybe she didn't deserve to go this early but I don't think she'd have alsted much longer to be honest.
Kady. Another pretty blonde one. Who I don;t remember at all.
Kristy Lee. Ditto for the blonde one I don;t remember. I do remember one fo the pretty blonde on es being really quite good, one being really quite bad and one just being a bit meh. I just wish I could remember which was which.
Ramiele. Hell YES. We like her. We like her a lot. She's got an amazing voice and just seems too, too cute. She's set her bar high but I have a feeling she'll be able to live up to it. She's the only one of the girls that actually looked comfortable on stage. She told the story of the song, used the camera brilliantly and never once looked out of place. She's the girl to beat at this stage.
Syesha. nd again, hell yes. Her actual performance wasn't as good as Ramiele's but she's damn good nonetheless. She's incredibly beautiful and graceful and makes it all look very easy. We liked her a lot too.
So top six girls... Actually, that's much harder than with the boys where the good are much better than the bad. Syesha and Ramiele should be dead certs. I'd like to see A'siah', Brooke and Alexandrea in there as well but the sixth spot I have no idea. Carly or Amanda maybe, but both of them need to do something brilliant this week to avoid missing out.
Least favorite to most favorite....
Jason... he just doesn't get it.
Luke... I can't stand his voice!
Robbie... maybe no one believes he's a rocker because he doesn't sound like one at all! He's too bland.
Danny... not bad, not good. I wish he was better because I like his sassy, girly personality.
Jason.... aw.... I liked him so much last week. This song did not work for him this week. He skipped the high notes and let the backup singers fill them in! Hello, this is a singing contest!
Michael...he picks songs that work for him, but he doesn't innovate much. I still want to see more.
David Cook...he did a good job. I'm not a big fan, but I don't dislike him.
David Hernandez... really good! I was surprised.
Chikeze... REALLY good! Loved it!
David Archuleta... I'm a total fan now! I knew Paula would call it beautiful, and that's what I thought.
Bleh... that's what this week was, for both the bois and the babes.
Let's discuss the guys first...
SASSING SIMON WON'T GET YOU INTO THE TOP !2 DEPT.
Robbie and especially David Cook-- who I thought was really good-- take heed. 'Sides, David, Simon's right-- you ARE rather bland when not performing.
AFTER THIS WEEK, I"M GLAD YOU DIDN'T GET CUT LAST WEEK DEPT.
Chikezie and "Moon River" Jason were much better for me this week. Jason's cuter than I originally thought... he gets boosted to an 8 lookswise.
I DON'T CARE HOW SO-SO YOUR SONG WAS, I LOVE YOU AND WANT TO FINGER-PAINT YOUR BODY DEPT.
That be-dreadlocked Jason Castro suRRRRRRRRe is puRRRRRRRty. And he's a very subdued hilarious. I loved his comments about hating to do interviews and all the other non-music suff he obviously doesn't care to do.
LET YOUR FLAME BURN BRIGHT, GIRL! DEPT.
I ***loved*** Danny's dedication to his missing lover Colton. I hope he makes it trough.
MIGHT AS WELL GIVE IT TO HIM NOW DEPT.
David Archuletta. Last week he was still sailing by on his adoreableness for me,but this week he really brought it home. Between his looks, his sweetness and his vocals, he may be unbeatable.
GO HOME NOW!!!! DEPT.
Luke, I detest you... I don't care how handsome you are, you suck, suck, SUCK!!!! Colton should still be here and he isn't because of YOU!!! **grrrrrrr!** Damn you.
AND THE REST
Michael and the Latin David. S'alright. They ain't going anywhere.
and the lasses...
to be honest, I was late getting back from work and only saw the first 3 performances' snippets at the end, but saw the other 7 in their entirety.
From the looks of it, Carly was about the only one who was dead-on tonight. Which in a way is cool because Carly is one of my favorite girl-names,but it's also bad because I don't want her to win for some reason. Not sure why. Just don't. Maybe that will change.
Syesha looked like she was taking a risk with "Me and MISTER Jones". How'd she do? Might have been more fun if she had left the original lyrics intact... heh heh.
The glimpse I caught of Brooke covering Carly Simon was too quick to get anything from... she was the one I really wanted to see, too... I'm drawn to her and want her to do well.
Now for who I did see...
Rameile... it was okay.
Kristy Lee Cook did better this week, still not wowed. Perhaps if she had sung a disco version of "Amazing Grace"...?
Space-toothed Carrie Underwood Alaina BOTCHED "Hopelessly Devoted..."! ANd I like her, too. *sigh* What she needs is someone to coach her. DO BETTER! I'm going to shake you until you DO BETTER, ALAINA!!!!!!
Amanda Overmeyer. How I adore you. Why won't you WOW me? Is that too much to ask? Do you need a good shaking?
Alexandrea. Just terrible, I thought, and I *love* her. She obviously needs a good yelling at followed by a thorough shaking.
Kady Malloy,if you ever destroy a Heart song like that again, you are going to get shaken senseless.
Asia'h. note to Bevis: I deal with the silly "'" in her name by pretending she originally hails from the Shi'ar Empire. Now, Asia'h... First of all, love once again your massive earrings. Second: *krack!!* That was me ready-ing up my hands to administer a good shaking. BAD ASIA'H!!!! Good Lord, girl, leave those types of songs for Danny to sing.
So yeah, this week was bleah for AI. But even when the show is bad, writing the reviews here (and reading everyone else's) is FUN!
I haven't read anyone else's review yet....
Wow, the girls did not impress much tonight.
Worst to best...
Amanda... she sounded terrible. I had high hopes for her. However, I thought she looked AWESOME! Cruella DeVille!
Kady just doesn't do anything memorable onstage. She should be an actress or comedienne who sings.
Asia'h... I agree with the judges. The song was too big for her.
Carly... she's like the female Michael Johns... good in theory, but not in practice.
Alexandrea did fine, but she seemed like she was annoyed with herself during the song. She should play it off.
Kristi Lee... cute girl, good job.
Ramiele... I thought she did better than the judges did.
Syesha... again, I think it was better than judges thought.
Alaina... nice!
Brooke... my favorite.
Honestly, I never felt the WOW! happen. The best got a "B" and the worst got a "C" in my book.
David Archuleta is the best of the top 20, IMO.
Hah! Lash and I have very similar reviews! No surprise there, I guess.
Ah, Lash my child, I am gald to see that you are learnign from my example and not holding back with your reviews. not that you really did before, but you seem to be breaking free this season even more.
It's an odd bunch this year. There's no-one who is really appalingly bad straight away btu it does seem to have a lot of singers who appear to have a huge amount of potential that simply aren;t actually delivering in the way that they should. Sure we're only into the second week of performances proper but apart from little David noen of them seem to be blowing people away. It's a shame because I think there's the potential there for this to be the best series of AI for a good long while and yet it's shaping up to be almost as bland as last year if they're not careful.
Best top 24 ever? Not so much. I don't know if these kids are getting too caught up in the fame game or what..but most of them aren't living up to their potential. The only one I really liked last night was Brooke, and even she didn't really blow me away. I hope they all step it up, because even though a David Archuletta victory seems inevitable, it'll make for a boring season if there aren't any other viable contenders.
THIS however did make me chuckle...what a poser!
After once being linked to Britney Spears, "American Idol" contestant Robbie Carrico picked up one of the popwreck's habits -- a love for wigs!
TMZ has learned the 26-year-old long-haired wannabe's mane is actually a wig and it's got "Idol" execs flipping out. Sources tell us Robbie never talks about his matted down piece and that makes production members feel like it's the blonde elephant in the room. It seems Simon was right last night -- Robbie is a fake!
Where's Sanjaya's pony-hawk or Kat McPhee's extensions when you need them?!
DON'T READ IF YOU DON'T WANNA KNOW
This week's eliminations leave me conflicted....
I mean yeah, it's not like Jason Y or Robbie had a chance of winning, but I'm not sure it was their time to go yet, especially Jason Y. Oh well, maybe he'll have to buckle down and get a 9 to 5 job now like the rest of us tools. As for Robbie, I'm sure he'll be glad to finally be able to take that wig off. Maybe he can re-link to Ms. Spears.
Chickwise, I'm hurt to see Alaina go because I liked her as a person, but this isn't a like you as a person contest. Alexandrea, however, COMPLETELY got the shaft. She is the 1 of the 4 I have NO conflicts about... she should have stayed.
Normally I giggle all through the wretched group performances that open the show, with everyone looking so fake and happy doing their cheesy dime-store choreography, but I rather liked Kristy, Carly, Alexandrea and Amanda on "It's a Heartache".
Why didn't the dreadful Luke get the axe, you might be wondering? Well, other than his stunning looks, he's apparently David Archuletta's support system. It was heartbreaking to see David pressing his face into Luke's arm, weeping his teenage eyes out while the girls sang for the final time. Or maybe it was kinda hot. Whatever.
Alls I know is Danny didn't have his support system (Colton) to press his
face into, as he was standing there weeping all full-frontal. Bring some tissue along next time, sister. You know your teenage homosexual emotions are going to get the better of you!!
(embarassing FYI tidbit: I teared up too during Alexandrea and Alaina's goodbyes!)
Hmmmm.... votefortheworst.com has pledged alliegence to Danny and Amanda.
They have also posted some interesting tidbits about David Hernandez' past as a stripper in a gay club as well as Amanda's 2006 mug shot. FUN! She was, like, SUPER-wasted in that pic!
OK, so I've watcehd some of the boys last ngiht and have the rest recorded to whizz through tonight. Thoughts on the ones I've already watched...
David Cook. I don't like him. Not at all. I don't know if it's the rubbish hairstyle that makes it oh-so obvious that he's overcompensating for going bald early or if it's his slightly pudgy, smug face or what. He can sing but there's absolutely nothing there that interests me. He's not got a hook of any kind and if he's going to go any further he needs that.
Jason Castro. Very pretty boy, nice voice without being spectactular, seems like a nice boy in terms of his personality and there's soemthing just very appealing about him. That said the song was a bit blah and it was pretty much the same thign as last week. He needs to show some versatility and do something a bit new. He's got the potential but now he needs to show what he can do.
Luke. Urgh. Once again really not good. Cheesy performance, dodgy vocals and just not good enough to be in the top ten boys. If he makes it into the final six then there's something very wrong.
Danny. I'm so disappointed in Danny. We know that he can sing brilliantly but this week he was just a bit dull. He doesn't have anythign like the clarity of voice that Karen Carpenter has so doing a song as simple as that just meant he was swamped by it. He looked awkward on stage and I think they were right when they said he just appeared to be thinking too hard about everything that he does. I know it's easier said than done but he needs to relax and enjoy himself and do a song that shows some personality. He can do a ballad but he needs to pick one with a bit more oomph because technically his singing isn't good enough to carry something like that at the moment.
Michael. M'eh. Again a big disapointment. I want to love Michael. He's got the hottness factor that Luke and Robbie seemt to think they have when they don't and he's got a hell of a voice but the last two weeks his performances have just come across as being alright rather than anythign special. He appears to just be doing it by numbers without putting any of himself into them. I think he'll be safely into the top six and deserves to be there but he's really got to pull his socks up if he's going to go any further than that.
Robbie. Snore. Boring. Very, very boring. Not bad in terms of his singing but it was just a very dull performance.
David Hernandez. David can sing, there's no doubt about that, but there's also something incredibly slappable about him. I think it was probably the way that he spent the whole song gurning and grimacing like he had a pack of hedghogs in his pants that were repeatedly stabbing him in the groin. He clearly thinks he's slick and classy but just comes across as being a bit oily. I think he's got the potential there to be very good but he needs to have his performance style broken down and rebuilt completely if he's not going to come across as being a bit arrogant.
I also caught the end of Little David's performance and once again it made me just think the other boys should give up and go home now. He's very definately a star in the making even if he doesn't win AI because his voice is incredible and he's just the most adorable little thing in the entire world. Give him a couple of years and I also suspect he's going to go from cute kid to a very hot young man.
So I have yet to see t'other Jason, Chikize and Little David's full performance.
Lash and Bevis,
You guys crack me up! It's just as much fun to come here and read your reviews as it is watching the show!
Tch. Jason and Alaina going is no great shame at all and Robbie probably shouldn;t have gone yet but didn;t actually have a chance of winning.
Alexandrea though... I am disappointed in you America before the series proper has started. Her performance this week wasn't briliant but none of the girls were and hers wasn't bad. Regardless though she's clearly one of the most talented girls and she absolutely did not deserve to get the boot. Shame on you, I say, shame.
The other girls... eh. Not a great week for anyone really. Brooke I liked but it was an awfully obvious song for her to do and she's got to show something other than the ever so nice girl with a nice voice if she's going to go anywhere. Amanda was bloody awful and needs to learn that just because she's the 'rocker' doesn't mean she can get away with shouting her way through a song. Plus her awful Brabar Dixon in the 80s hair just made her look like a joke (and old into the bargain). I kind of liked her at first but I'm bored of her now and just don't think she's even vaguely good enough to be in the top six girls. The rest were alright without being anything special. They all just seemed to be a bit bored this week, which is a shame becuase I really do think they've got some of the best singers they've ever had this year if only they could lift their performances to the levels of their (potential) vocals.
Of course the biggest travesty this week is that Luke is still there. His was the only really bad performance this week and surely he can't just be coasting on his looks? He's a bad singer and an even worse performer. I just hope to god that he doesn't make it beyond next week because if he does then there's something drastically wrong there.
Well, I thought the boys all rocked, with one exception.
Plus my comments will all have a 90s-music theme (this may or may not include older songs covered by 90s artists ALA AI!).
DO YOU HAVE TO LET IT LINGER?
Why is Luke still on that stage? His "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" was bile-inducing. David Archuletta will have to find someone else's arms to press into and weep against.
GIRL, YOU'LL BE A WOMAN SOON
Well, watching our triad of queens certainly was interesting. Danny, of course, is always fun, but I was rather shocked by the nads it took for onetime gaybar stripping sensation David H to tackle Celine Dion. Chikezie's got nads too.
DON'T SPEAK
Just sing. And that you did, leaving out any snottiness toward Simon and just kicking freaking ass on "Hello" of all things. David Cook may very well be this season's Chris Daughtry.
SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT
David Archuletta continues to do well on the ballady type stuff. Simon predicts top 2. Simon's usually right.
TAKE YOUR HAT OFF BOY WHEN YOU'RE TALKING TO ME AND BE THERE WHEN I FEED THE TREE
If he was wearing one, which would be a shame 'cause then it would obscure the view of his hot dreads. Oh yeah, I think he sang a song too. It was pretty... like him.
THE GREAT BIG NO
Okay, so I know he's good and hot and all but I'm just not finding myself rooting for Michael.
So, prediction for top 6?
HERE'S WHERE THE STORY ENDS
Farewell Luke and... Chikezie, I would guess, after Simon's comments.
I picked up the phone after tonight's show and voted for my 3 favorites in order: David Cook, Jason Castro, and David Hernandez.
David Cook has really surprised me. I thought he was going to be the forgetable Bucky of the season, but he just keeps getting better and better and better. I won't be surprised if he wins it, or pulls a Daughtry and becomes the big star of the season.
Jason Castro sang one of my absolutely favorite songs of all time and did a rather swell job with it. His Jeff Buckley version of Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah deserves to propel him into the top 12 and higher. This guy has got future as a performer.
Last, I voted for David Hernandez. American Idol needs more gay strippers!!! Besides that, the quality of David's voice really stood out for me.
Disappointing were Michael Johns and David Archuleta. They have so much talent but just seemed blah tonight.
I like Luke's voice. He definitely can sing and just needs to find the right songs. Will he win - not in a million years, but I'd like him to stay around to develop the potential.
So, going home, I hope are Chikezie (boring and predictable) and unfortunately, Danny Noriega. Danny just hasn't delivered. Tainted Love should have been his masterpiece, but it was just blah.
Haven't read any reviews yet...
AH!! Just when I thought Luke couldn't be any worse... Wake Me Up Before You Go Go!
PLEASE LET HIM NOT MAKE IT ANY FURTHER!!!!
David Hernandez sings Celine. I just don't think so.
Danny...he's interesting, but I'm not sure it's enough.
I love the song Chikeze sang, and he was alright, but it didn't say wow.
I like Michael. I like his song choices. Where's the wow?
David Archuleta did a fine job, but I'm starting to get the idea that all of his choices have to have a message. Lighten up, kid!
Jason Castro... love that song. Love his quiet, vulnerable version of it.
David Cook. There's the wow! I actually couldn't believe I was hearing such a cool version of "Hello!" Impressive and surprising!
La lasses....
C'MON BARBIE, LET'S GO PARTY
Ah, Asia'h. You're like a nice cold glass of Shasta. Or some other off-brand soda. Still diggin' your earrings though. A nice enough version of a dull dun2deth song.
I'M SO AFRAID OF LIVING IN OBLIVION
Kady, I fear your time on AI may be ending this week.
SOMEDAY YOU WILL ACHE LIKE I ACHE
Most likely if you listen to Amanda's perormance from last week again. This week, however, she ruled. Yay! I love her general ballsiness.
THE TRICK IS TO KEEP BREATHING
Well, Kristy Lee Cook. You may have finally won me over with something besides "Amazing Grace".
THE MORE YOU IGNORE ME, THE CLOSER I GET
Damn you, Carly.
LULLABYE AND GOODNIGHT
Rameile... she may be on the edge here. Someone else has to go.
MOVIN' ON UP... NOTHING CAN STOP ME
Brooke White was my absolute favorite of the evening!!
IT'S GOING TO BE A FINE NIGHT TONIGHT, IT'S GOING TO BE A FINE DAY TOMORROW
For Syesha anyway... I predict top 6-dom.
I actually liked all the girls pretty well tonight. A good week for all (except for Luke, of course).
This is a first for me. I loved everyone tonight and don't want anyone to go. Amanda was fabulous, Carly's voice is gorgeous, Brooke was unique, Kady is such a babe, Ramiele is the next Barbara Streisand, etc, etc. I even thought Syesha was fabulous and I haven't liked her before. I guess the ones in danger are Christie, Ramiele, Asia'h and Kady. None of them deserve to go, but probably two of them will.
It was a very good night. Oh and did you see how hot Carly's mom was? (You may have to be in your 50's to appreciate her, but believe me, that's a great looking woman.)
Worst to best....
Kady... I might still be bitter that she bumped Alaina out, but I just don't think she's very good.
Aisa'h... not a good song choice for her. It seemed forced.
Kristy Lee... interesting change up, making it country style. Maybe not big enough, though.
Carly... our Irish girl is just like our Aussie boy... talented, interesting and just a notch away from great.
Ramiele... heard that song a million times. It was good, not great.
Syesha.... I'm a Whitney fan, so if someone can even come close, I'm pretty impressed.
Brooke... I knew it would go well if she changed to her own style... and it did!
Amanda.... yay!!! She was cool again! I hope she makes it.
I just watched the boys. In twenty minutes. I fastforwarded through all the filler and my goodness there's a lot of filler. But enough of that, what about the singing? Let's see...
Luke. Just F**K OFF YOU TALENTLESS TIT! Urgh. His screeching and caterwauling is just hideous. Why he wasn't voted off the first week I don't know. How he then managed to survive the week after astounded me. If he survives this week then there's something seriously wrong.
Little David Archuleta. OK, the fact that he has possibly the best voice in the contest goes without any arguement. He's an absolutely superb singer and a potentially brilliant performer. My only concern is that he might become a bit samey. Basically what Simon said, we need to see him do something more up and varied if people aren't just going to get a bit bored of him. He may be the most talented person on the show but if he's not careful he could get eclipsed by someone more willing to take risks.
Michael. Once again I really want to like Michael. And once again I just ended getting up bored. The song just seemed like a tedious choice for him and he looked like he was going through the motions as much as anything else. He needs to pull something out of the bag if he's not going to just bore everyone.
McCheesy. I don't get him, I really don't. He's not a bad singer but there's just something unbelievably bland about him and his performances are glib and naff. He's not a particularly interesting singer and he has a face that is just begging for a bit of a slap. But he's not needing a slap as much as whoever is styling him. Either they're the work experience kids or they've got something against McCheesy and are just having a laugh at his expense.
David Cook. It's only a matter of time before someone points out to him that he's actually bald and putting a Tribble on his head doesn;t hide that fact. Oh, and he took a truly hideous song and made it... slightly less hideous. I really don't like David Cook either. I think he's fake and completely blargh. Unfortunately he seems to be quite popular. I really can't fathom that at all.
Danny. OK, done now. He's gone from being amusing babygay to be creepy queen. His singing was absoutely atrocious this week and his performance made him look like a drunk rent boy trying to shake his arse on a podium very badly. When this competition started I thought he was a shoe-in for the top six boys. Now I think he should have gone the first week if that's the best he can do. His lip back at Simon just made him even more annoying.
Jason. Jason is a brilliant singer (even if he somewhat flubbed the last note) but like Little David he really needs to do something other than just a nice ballad. His version of Hallelujah wasn't up to the level of kd lang or Rufus Wainwright but it wasn't far off. He just needs to show us something other than what he already has done.
David 'stripper' Hernandez. Ah, now wouldn't him stripping as he sang lifen up AI? The first week I wasn't convinced by him. This week though I actually saw the potential in him. He was reaching at a couple of points and there's something oddly affected about some of his performing but when he was good he was very good. I can see him becoming very, very good if he works on his all round performance.
So, my personal pick for top six would be Little David, Stripper David, Jason, probably Michael... eh, and I guess McCheesy and David Cook. But if Michael, Cook or McCheesy went insted of Danny I wouldn't be too annoyed. As long as Luke goes I'm not too bothered becuase even if I don't think they're brilliant the others can all carry a tune at the very least.
I caught most of the guys and David Cook's (I think)version of 'hello' was fantastic! I haven't really got him so far but the tones were just superb. Now if only he would get a real haircut!
The little horror who ruined Tained Love should be stabbed. A lot!
Cute boy with dreads sang okay too though he missed the last note by about 18 feet, pity as he was really convincing until then.
The first bloke on (Luke? Not sure) peirces me between the eyes every time - and not in a good way - his pitch is truly shocking and his timing is never quite convincing, I hope he gets kicked off!
I find Chikesie (how do you spell that?)interesting though he's still to sing a song that's right for him, this weeks song was not his best and that's a pity as he can really sing.
The really young kid who sang imagine last week didn't perform as well this time but he still has the purest voice of them all.
Paula Abdul offends me, can she not just say "that was bad" and been done with it rather than trying to always be nice - I want to take her place on the panel next year!
Simon Cowell, as ever, was stole the show!
Oh well thank the lord for that. Of the girls one maybe didn't deserve to go but the other did. With the boys I'm perfectly happy.
Not a bad top twelve all in all, although I think there are a few in there that simply aren't anything special. The ones that are good either are already fantastic or have the potential to be brilliant if they can just up their games a bit. Whatever happens though despite some distinctly mediocre performances the last couple of weeks I think this top twelve does have some of the best talent AI has had for years and it has the potential to be the best series for a good long while.
I just hope they keep the theme weeks to a minimum or keep them as vague as '80s songs' or 'love songs' or something rather than forcing them to do the back catalogue of a particular artist or a particular musical style. There's obviously going to be a Lennon/McCartney week from what's already been said but I hope that's just going to be the exception rather than the rule.
I was disappointed that Asia'h got voted out as she was one of my favourites. Am glad that those two guys went though as they didn'tdo much for me at all.
Just watched the girls. Generally better than the boys overall.
Ai's'ha'''''aa'a. The song is very tired but she was actually pretty bloody good so I'm not sure why she ended up getting shafted. Possibly it's just because she's a little interchangable with Syesha who has a little more personality to her.
Kady. GrraBBlaaRRggh BlllLLLLAArrrraaaaarrrTTT!!! Goodness, that was shit wasn't it? Kady won't be missed. The worrying thing is I thought she'd actually gone last week instead of the the other blonde interchangable girl. Ah-well, that's not gonna be an issue any more is it?
Kristy Lee. She was actually pretty good this week. The whole country edge does indeed work for her and while she still doesn't stand out in the way that I'd like her to she could be rather better than I was expecting.
Carly. Hell Yes. The girl done good. I actually really love the song (the Roy Orbison or Cyndi Lauper version *not* the screeching Celine Dion version) and she absolutely rocked it. She also had hot trousers on and just looked fabulous. Loved it.
Amanda. Eh. I still want to like Amanda but the more I see her the more I just think she's a not quite as good version of a few singers. When she's not Janis Joplin she's Joan Jett or Siousxie or whoever and I've never actually had any sense of her being *Amanda*. Plus someone really needs to do something about her hideously outdated hair.
Ramiele. She's possibly got the best voice of the whole bunch. And yet... it was just a bit dull. When she goes off it's really noticeable but there's something missing from her performances and I'm not quite sure what it is. She needs a bit of oomph or chutzpah and she just doesn't quite have it. Could be nerves, could just be that she's not a very good performer.
Brooke. Chris hated it, I loved it. Her voice is very Tori Amos without her just sounding like a knock-off. She's actually very Folk in a way that there doesn't seem to be in the US (Country takes it's place and is kind of the same but sort of not. I can see her doing something by Ewan McColl or Kate Rusby or something) and I think that's what makes her interesting. She's an incredibly good looking girl too and I like her a lot. I hope she goes a long way in this contest, although I do worry that her appeal won't be all that broad so she might lose votes not because she's bad but because people just don't like her style.
Syesha. Syesha is either great *or* a bit cocky and needing to be taken down a peg or two. I hated the song (wouldn't matter who did it I'd hate it) but she did it pretty well. But there is something about her that makes me think she's better than she is. Or at least that she thinks she's better now than she could be with a bit or training. I'm undecided about her so far. She could go either way for me. We shall see...
So the girls were better than the boys and it's looking good for the top twelve.
Whoo! Top 12!
My opinions from my least favorite to my most favorite....
12. Kristy Lee... sorry, I couldn't stand it. Not only was the *overly* countrified arrangement too much, but her odd, under enthusiastic performance didn't help. She's really cute, though.
11. Hernandez... ugh!
10. Syesha... yawn.
9. Ramiele... yawn, but cute.
8. David Archuletta... wow, the pressure got to him! Not very good.
7. Carly... very good, but I'm still not amazed by her. Maybe she needs to mellow out, do something sweet. I don't know.
6. Jason... I like that he's the anti-giant-voice type. Idol needs that.
5. Brooke... very sweet. I was looking forward to each line from her.
4. David Cook... great job, similiar to last time in a good way.
3. Michael Johns... I think there was some emotion from him!
2. Amanda... what fun! Well delivered.
1. Chikeze... what fun! Well delivered.
Once again, I thought David Cook was the standout performer, with his rock version of Eleanor Rigby. David just continues to impress me. He's genuine and I really think, if talent counts, that he could win this thing.
Carly sang Come Together, a song I've always detested. Despite that, she was brilliant. Her voice is crystal clear and spot on. She's going to be in the top 4.
Brooke White sang Let It Be honestly and heart felt. She's the Joni Mitchell of the competition (although I like her a lot more than Joni Mitchell). Brooke may not have the widest appeal with her folksy manner, but I love her. I think she's going to go far.
Surprise, surprise. Chickezie, who I thought was the most boring performer ever, was brilliant tonight. This guy has so much unrevealed talent, it's scary. There's no way he's going home.
Jason Castro sang If I Fell. He did an acoustic 60's coffee house version that was really good. It wasn't a concert performance, but the guy really has a charm that draws me in. I don't think he'll win this, but I will buy his cd.
Amanda did a great bluesy version of some Beatles song. I didn't understand most of the words, but she was really entertaining. No way she's going home.
Kristy sang a country version of 8 Days a Week. She got panned. Her voice was good. I think the only problem with the song was that the tempo was too fast. She needed to slow it down and then it would have worked. Too bad, because she's in danger.
Michael Johns was okay with Across the Universe, but I keep waiting for him to wow me with something other than his looks. I really want him to do well (probably because he's so good looking), but he always seems to come in short of memorable. However, I think he has a large fan base that feels the same way and wants to keep him around for that breakout performance.
The rest, David "Stripper" Hernandez, Sayesha, and Ramielle were okay but forgettable.
Unfortunately, the worst was America's Sweetheart, David Archuletta who did a really dismal Stevie Wonder version of some forgettable Beatles song. (When will people stop doing Stevie Wonder versions - that's so tired). He was way out of his element. He forgot the words and basically, his performance stunk. Based solely on tonight's performance, David would go home. However, there is no way that will happen because of the strength of his past performances and the fact that every girl under the age of 15 is in love with him, and because he really does have a great voice.
So, the evictee, I think, will be Kristy, David Hernandez or Ramiele. Sayesha will squeek by, but despite her looks and entertainer personality, her time is limited.
BROOKE was my absolute favorite last night. As of now, I want her to win.
Other faves were David Cook, Jason Castro and Amanda Overmeyer.
I thought Kristi Lee and Ramielle were better than the judges did. I liked the hoe-down version Kristi did and thought Ramielle's version was very pretty.
David Stripper, Chickezie, and Michael were not standouts to me.
Carly and Syesha I enjoyed well enough.
Young David A stood out for his flubbing of the lyrics and his gracious, polite manner with the judges.
A fun start. I hate to see anyone leave yet.
re: tonight's first exit from the top 12...
I have no problem with it.
Yet I can't help but wonder if it was by actual votes or if the AI top dawgs weren't wanting to scrape off a perceived blemish.
My co-workers all felt Kristi Lee would be gone tonight. I didn't agree, and argued the country fans would save her, yet I could offer no substitute for the exodus.
I guess that's a good sign, when I can't actually say without doubt, "oh, THIS person or one of THESE people is leaving tonight". Fun!
I haven't actually watched the ful performances yet but I recorded it, caught a couple of performances in full and the recap clips. From those my impressions are:
Jason can certainly sing but I'm bored of him. Every performance has been exactly the same, he's reaching really badly for some of the high notes and he doesn't half gurn and grimace as he's singing. If he doesn't do something different soon then he's going to get teh boot simply for being dull.
Same goes for Amanda. I know she's got a certain look that she's going for but her styling just looks horribly dated and her performances are all exactly the same. No matter what she's singing they all sound exactly alike. he just doesn't appear to have any depth to her performances. I want her to be so much better than she is but if she just keeps retreading the same old same old then she's not going to last long. t the moment I'm just being made aware of the fact that there have been much better rockers on AI who didn't last very long.
Cheesy is just cheesy. No knock to his singing which is competant but I simply don't see the appeal of him. e's not got anything 'real' about him.
Michael is hot but getting duller by the week. Of all of them he's the one that i wanted to wow me most and he's not done it once since the auditions. I don;t know if it's just the songs he's picking or his performance on a basic level. He's never been bad, he's just never been great either which is a huge shame.
Ramielle is a great little singer but just doesn't seem to know what to do when she gets on stage. She looks lost and doesn't seem to have any heart behind her singing. It didn't help that I think the arrangement of that song was appaling (I'm not a Beatles fan anyway but their songs can be done well by others) but she just didn;t do anything standout with it either way.
Kristi Lee could possibly be quite good but she's not at the moment. The arrangement of the song again didn;t help. It seems like she's taken the comment about Country and gone so full on for it that she's lost anything unique about her as if she thinks that just because she could be the only country singer in the top twelve that'd be enough to get her through. It's not, but then her voice isn't as good as most of the others so I don't think there's much she can do to save herself.
Syesha should be better than she is and I still think she thinks she's a lot better than she's been so far. She's good and there's something appealing about her but there's a slight cockiness to her performances that isn't quite backed up by the quality. I think she is someone who has the potential to develop well over the series though.
David A f*cked up big time but had the good grace to admit to it. He'll get away with it fine maybe once more and then people will start to hold it as a problem no matter how good his voice is. He also needs to do something compleetly different from his other performances. I do think he can change it up and get away with it as well, which I'm not sure is true of Jason, so even though it could be a risk it might pay out in the long run. f he's going to make it to the final two though he does need to show more versatility.
David H I didn't think was all that bad, although I did only see the recap bit of his performance. I don;t think he deserved to go this early since I think he's got a lot of potential. I doubt the whole stripper revelation really had any affect on him getting voted out but I think he could still have a career if he plays his cards right.
David Cook I hated. Really, really hated. His stupid hair is really bugging me now but there was something about the performance that i found unbelievably plastic and fake. I don't believe for a second that he's the rocker that he's trying to be. He can carry a tune but I don't think there's anything interesting or unique about his voice and I really don't understand why so many people find him so enjoyable. I think it's purely a taste thing on that front rather than him being Bucky-bad or something, but the sooner he goes the better in my book.
The only two that really stood out from the pack for me were Brooke and Carly.
Carly gave a great performance (even though she does pull some utterly bizarre faces when she's singing) and just has a lovely voice. She shows up Amanda big time in terms of being able to rock out and still sing in tune and have the words be intelligable. I love her sleeve as well.
Brooke did a song that I utterly detest but did it beautifully. There's something incredibly serene about her and she does appear to be the love child of Joni Mitchell and Tori Amos without just seeming like a cheap knock off of either of them. She could be in danger of just being too, too nice but I think she's just the right side of it and comes across as being very laid back and gentle without being sappy or sentimental. I still think that her appeal is going to be too narrow for her to actually win since she's very folk and not a mainstream artist but I would love her to go all the way. She's pretty much certain to get a career at the end of the day even if its not going to be a chart smashing one but I think she appeals to the kind of people who will be very loyal to her and will buy her records and see her in concert regardless of whether she's 'cool' or not. She's also managed to do songs that are quite similar each week without seeming to get stuck in the rutt in the way that Jason, Amanda and David A have. Just going from thsi week alone she'd be my pick as the winner. I doubt it'll happen but I'll be very, very happy if it does.
You guys have all met
the man I\'m going to marry right?
Meanwhile, VFTW is now fully backing Amanda Overmeyer and reports that li'l David Archuletta's dad is a "stage dad from hell" whose company has been in dealings with both AI and Star Search for years. Explains why David A got to sing for the Season 1 contestants.
I'm ready for Tuesday....
Amanda's the worst?!?! Wow! And she got raves from the judges! Tough times for VFTW this year, huh? They are missing them some Sanjaya!
As happens almost every year, an AI performance has rekindled or introduced me to a song that I just cannot get out of my head. "Across the Universe" is it for now. I liked Michael's rendition fine, but it lead me to find Fiona Apple's rendition, which I knew but forgot about. Well, now I'm repeating it constantly on youtube!
sigh...
Looking forward to more. I hope someone does "Oh, Darlin'" and I hope they do it well. It's quite difficult. I'd like Amanda to do it, I think.
I think VFTW are probably going to ahve a hard time this year. There isn't anyone spectacularly bad (or at least they haven't been so far). Kristi is probably the worst but isn't really awful and Amanda has had some pretty shoddy performances but is no Sanjaya or Bucky. On the other hand I'm also having a hard time guessing who is likely to be in the top three since pretty much everyone ahs had at least one brilliant performance and a few mediocre ones so a lot of it's going to depend on how they develop as performers.
"jai guru deva.....om...."
"nothin's gonna change my world.."
I'll agree with Simon, 2 weeks of Beatles was a mistake. What a bleah week.
THE OFFICIAL I'VE GROWN WEARY OF THEM SQUAD ROLL CALL
David Archuleta.... if li'l Miss Perfect wins, I can already hear in my head the crappy cd he'll put out (through no fault of his own largely). 1 part 2000-style Justin Timberlake, 1 part crappy ballads, 1 part forced pseudo-hip-hop. Euuuugh.
David Cook.... To borrow from Simon, he's getting indulgent. Try something a little different, David, I want to like you next week!
Michael Johns... He just hasn't wowed me yet. He reminds me of an excellent karaoke singer, not an American Idol.
THE TABLES (FOR ME) TURNED
Carly... She makes these faces that are painful to look at when she sings, but I'm warming to her.
Kristi Lee Cook... Once again, I thought she was a lot better than the judges did. As the only country-esque performer this year, I hope the country fans keep her in.
Chikezie... the first version of "I've Just Seen a Face" I ever heard was a totally country hoe-down by 80s country girl-band Calamity Jane (who would later become lesbianic duo Kennedy/Rose). It was my favorite performance of his to date.
JUST OKAY FOR ME
Shyesha... how I hoped she would do the En Vogue version of "Yesterday".
Ramiele... It was fun enough, but seemed sorta amatuerish.
GIMME GIMME MORE
Brooke... this lass is awesome. I cannot wait to spend money on her first cd. The judges shocked me that they didn't like it. I thought it was sweet, fun, great.
Amanda Overmeyer... She made a great point about what her shows would be like. She's not fantastic, but she's a LOT of fun.
Jason Castro... If I'm totally honest, based on vocals, Jason should go home this week. However I'm so drawn to him, I hope Simon's right about his charm and face carrying him through. After this performance, though, I'm putting him on notice, despite his choosing the song for and dedicating it to me, his future husband.
bottom 3?
I'm worried for Jason. Kristi Lee seems to be a permanent member. And possibly Michael?
I cannot WAIT to see my Pickles sing tomorrow night! (Kat McPhee kicked ass last week, too!)
It's hard to not read Lash's post as I write this, but here goes...
Worst to best:
Kristy Lee. She just sounded off the whole time.
Michael. Last week it was nice that he dedicated the song to someone close to him. This time it came across as self indulgent (to borrow a common statement Simon makes). His choice was really bad for this format.
Ramiele. I'm losing faith in her. Her voice is pretty, but she might be better in a smaller niche, not in the international superstar market.
Carly. When was her 50th birthday?
David Cook. The magic faded. He should have done something different. The Peter Frampton mouth thing was wierd. But he's still good, overall.
Jason. Still charming as ever, but he should learn how to sing with more power.
Brooke. Should have been good, but it was weird.
Chikeze. I really liked it. He could have skipped the harmonica, though.
Amanda. I love her and I love her reaction to Simon's comments. The performance was great. I love her strut step/hair flip. Ow! Oh yeah, her raspy rocker voice works for me.
David Archuleta. This is him in his element. The whole time I was waiting for the lyric flub and it never happened! Yay!
Syesha. I loved the tender, nearly crying singing style on this one.
Hah! Some of Lash's and my comments are nearly identical.
OHMIGAWD!!!!!!!
This totally did not go the way I expected--
but I was okay with it.
DON'T READ FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANNA KNOW
If the bottom 3 had to consist of Amanda, Kristi Lee and Carly, then based strictly on vocals, the right person went home.
I could, however, make an arguement that based on performance, the right person did NOT go home.
It's all good as long as my future husband is safe! We're planning our wedding as I type....
Pickles ruled. I can't wait to get her new CD!
I can't believe Christie is STILL around - her performances are AWFUL!!!!!!! Off key, terrible vocals & she butchers every song she does
Amanda should have stayed
Ditto, Asky!
I'm an Amanda Fanda, so I'm bummed out.
Eh, I'm happy with that. She was pretty cool (despite the horribly dated hair and clothes) but every single performance she's done has been the same and there have been points where not only have the lyrics been completely unintelligable but she's been pretty much just shouting as well. And to be fair she never really stood a chance of winning either so going this early probably doesn;t make any difference. I am slightly surprised that she went over Kristi though.
Andrew Lloyd Weber has just been confirmed as one of the mentors for this season. So we've got him (eh, might be good), Mariah Scary (urgh) and Dolly Parton (Yay!) all confirmed as mentors. Has there been anyone else mentioned that I've missed hearing about?
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
Ditto, Asky!
I'm an Amanda Fanda, so I'm bummed out.
I am an Amanda fan too but I knew she would never make the Top 2 but I at least wanted her in Top 10 so she could go on the tour. Kristie definitely does not deserve to be in Top 10 - she has consistently been on bottom 2 EVERY week.
I think it will come down to the 2 Davids - both are good though young David might end up winning since he is the most popular/cute.
Finally getting round to watch this week.
Amanda. Fnurg blart snort blargh USSR! Blart! I thought we didn't have a Bucky this year, it appears we did. I was bored with Amanda anyway so I'm not missing her.
Kristi. She appeared to be singing a different song from what the band were playing. Plus apart from the big notes she sounded off the entire song. She's not going to last if there's any justice.
David A. Little David has an incredible voice but my gods he's picking shitty songs at the moment. Maudlin, dull or just plain crap. He's in really serious danger of coming across as moping and rippy and that I cannot be doing with. He's got to do something great to turn things around for me because much as he has the best voice in the series if he keeps churning out the same performances every single week then people are going to get bored with him and he won't get the votes.
Michael. So, so disappointing. He's hot, he's got a great voice and he's a very competant performer. But he's just... he's not as good as he should be. I think he'll be around for a while yet but he's not going to win unless he can do another Bohemian Rhapsody. I want to like him as much as I liked Chris Daugherty but he's just missing the something that makes Chris so good.
Brooke. Ever so slightly flat in plaves but the right song for her personality and she's got a brilliant stage presence. A very nice voice, if maybe not technically the best of the bunch, but she's an incredibly engaging performer. She's my dark horse pick for the winner, even if the judges weren't keen on it. She's also got a lovely personality. She talks back to the judges but with great humour and sun and is clearly a very bright girl. I think she's got a career whatever happens here.
David Cook. Just shave your hair you munter. His performance was affected and consisted mostly of shouting and posing with his geeetar. And then the self-indulgent garbling with the vocal effects just made me want to throw bricks at him. Yuk.
Carly. Dear Lord that top she had on was hideous. Odd arrangement of the song, but then again I only really like Bernadette Peter's version. Not a bad performance at all, but a fairly pointless song in a contest like this. Didn't deserve to be bottom three but then nor was it one of the best.
Jason. OK, I liked Jason to start with. Now I just want to slap him. He's gone from pleasant to cloying and wet. Oh, and really rather boring.
Syesha. This song makes me want to rip my ears off. It's so bloody awful it makes me want to scream. Syesha actually managed to sing it quite nicely though. She just let her voice be the thing that carried the performance rather than trying to be something that she might not be. I'm not sure she's really got any chance of winning or has anything really unique about her in the long run but I do rather like her.
Chikizie. Cheesy. And oddly sounded like he was out of time for half of it. And then he 'played' the harmonica and it all went to utter shit. It's like he was having some kind of mental breakdown live on stage. Absolutely godawful tripe.
Ramiele. Wierdly off-key at the start at least. Not a bad choice of song but something missing slightly. Like Michael she's someone I want to really like and she's not really impressed in the way she should, whihc is a big shame.
The audience this week were awful though with the constant shouting through every single performance so that they drowned out the singing a lot. It's not the first time they've done that of course but it was especially bad this week.
Bevis, you were not amused, were you.
Not really. I think Simon was right in saying that a second week of Beetles songs was a mistake. They've got some really good singers this time but they pretty much all seem to pick really bad songs. I think I'm more annoyed this year by the seriously lacklustre performances because so many of them have the potential to be great and they're missing time and time again. It's not good.
Least favorite to favorite....
Ramiele. Just not very interesting. I'm getting tired of people doing that song on Idol now, too. Lessee... Carrie Underwood did it. Someone else did it. Carly did it this season.
Jason. Too subdued. He needs to step up. Or cry. Or something. I barely remember what he did.
David Archuleta. I don't know the song and it wasn't very interesting. He didn't seem to be enjoying himself, either. Weird to have him so far from the top.
Carly. Such a karaoke song. In fact, that song is more fun out at karaoke and I know I've said as much here before. I wish she would do really cool, obsure songs that I don't know but that are interesting and show her talents. She's actually pretty dull to me.
Brooke. Such a tired song. I mean, I used to love it. And Brooke is too sweet to pull off a creepy/stalker type of vibe for it, so it just fell flat. Plus she made an error in the beginning.
Kristy. She was very good, and as Simon said, very clever. Unless she totally blew it, who's going to vote against the USA? Wow! Kristy was better than Brooke, IMO tonight.
Chikeze. I thought Simon and Randy were too hard on him. I thought he did a great job with it. Here's kind of a shallow comment... it'd be nice if he was better looking. I think Chikeze has a lot of potential as an entertainer, but there are a lot of talented, good looking guys who can do what he does. Hey, maybe he and Jason can trade songs and see how it goes?
Michael. Maybe he should just always try to do Queen songs? Well, it worked this week anyway. I think the judges are right though. He's best when he pushes himself and gets really into it.
Syesha. She sounded and looked really good. I loved it!
David Cook. I never knew we'd be in store for such great entertaiment from him! He's been very consistent and quite good, IMO.
Tonight, no one even came close to David Cook with his unbelievable version of Billy Jean (a song I usually hate but loved tonight). David is so original, and as the judges said, he deserves to win this thing.
The worst tonight, to get it out of the way, was David Archuleta. I'm getting tired of this super nice kid. All I can think of watching him is Alfred E. Newman from Mad Magazine. Bobbing around like a singer on an after school show for 4th graders, he really is getting irritating, despite his charm.
That said, we all know David Archuleta is safe. So the bottom three are probably going to be Ramiele (and I think she's going), Chickezie (who was really boring tonight, but has such a nice voice) and Kristie Cook.
Kristie sang very well tonight, but she was so obvious and pandering in choosing to sing "God Bless America." It was like a dare - How can you vote me off when I sang a patriotic song? It would be un-American. I think for that very reason, the pandering, she should go.
The others were okay. Michael Johns gave his best performance, but in retrospect, it paled in comparison to David Cook's performance.
Jason was decent and I enjoyed him.
Carly was a bit predictable, but she's got a good voice.
Brooke White wasn't great tonight with Every Little Step You Take.
Sayesha was quite good and should not be in the bottom three.
So, those are my opinions, for what they're worth (not much, probably).
For me, the bottom three were Ramiele, Jason and Kristi.
Ramiele should definitely go tonight. She's sweet, but just boring, you know?
Jason's just the same guy every week, and if they put out an album with the songs he's done here, I'd simply fall asleep!
Kristi...yes, she sang pretty well tonight, but the song choice--very high school chorus. I mean, when I was in high school, it seemed like we did that song every year, either as a group or as a solo. It's a crowd pleaser, yes, but a very, very cheesy, pandering one.
If this were a bottom four, I'd definitely put David A. in that spot. Simon nailed what was wrong with the song when he said it seemed like it belonged in a theme park a la "It's a Small World"--very Mickey Mouse Club! In fact, I was absolutely stunned Simon didn't call out Kristi for the exact same thing! David A. needs to branch out, badly--such a great voice should never be boring!!
So, hopefully, we'll say goodbye to Ramiele tonight (though I wonder, since she hasn't been in the bottom three the last two weeks).
Otherwise, I rank the Top Six, this week, as follows:
1) David Cook--absolutely brilliant!
2) Michael Johns--Queen definitely brings it out in him! (though the jdges curiously didn't call ot some flaws in his vocals)
3) Carly--I LOVE "Total Eclipse of the Heart", and Carly gave me goose bumps singing it. I hope last week's appearance in the bottom three and the judges inexplicably negative comments don't point to her being out this week.
4) Sayesha--really stepping up her game the past two weeks!
5) Chikezie--don't understand the negative comments on him either from the judges.
6) Brooke--in danger of becoming boring. I hope she finds a way to mix it up next week. (I don't see her being in danger yet.
Go David Cook! He's quickly becoming my favorite!
1 post for both shows...
SPECIAL NO-HOLDS BARRED EDITION
TUESDAY
Ramiele... Absolute garbage. The original version has lyrics absolutely soaked in and dripping with lonliness and depression, the chorus to me is secondary to the emotion in the lyrics. Ramiele choed on both. BOTTOM 3.
Chikezie... Is he still here? His gender-switching of lyrics is annoying to me. Time to go. BOTTOM 3.
Jason Castro... Despite my love for him, I wouldn't buy any album he released. I would, however, watch any show he was on or buy any magazine spread (I.E. Playgirl) he appeared in. Time to go to Hollywood and audition, don't bother booking studio time. BOTTOM 3.
(2 of my 3 predictions were correct)
David A... Poor li'l thing... Simon's going to break him yet. Bad this week.
Carly... fading in and out... I've decided that all future HEART songs should be done by her and her only.
Syesha... I thought was great, didn't deserve bottom 3.
Kristi Lee... I was impressed Simon knew who Lee Greenwood was... though my favorite song of his remains "IOU" (download it TODAY!) he of course never had to work again after this song. She did well on it.
Michael Johns... FINALLY. Something else else worthwhile. And he really IS hot, isn't he?
Brooke White... part Tori, part Lucinda, part Sarah... I absolutely STILL adore her. Release CD now, please.
David Cook... My prediction for winner, to make up for the Chris Daughtry fiasco.
WEDNESDAY
No prob with tonight's exit, at all.
Well I'm super-bummed.
Chikezie had a great voice IMO and when he wasn't doing boring Luther Vandross power-ballads he was easily the most entertaining performer to watch on the stage. His "She's a Woman" is one of my favourite Idol performances ever.
As soon as he started singing last night though I knew he was gonna be a goner today. Song choice is SO crucial for those 'on-the-bubble' contestants that don't have the raging fan-bases that people like the Davids (and maybe Michael and Brooke) have. They need to stick to popular songs and stay up-tempo I think.
Bye Chikezie. I'd buy your album (so long as you stay faaaarrrr away from boring Luther Vandross).
On another note, I'm glad to see Mike *finally* stepping up. I really don't get why he's been so stiff and uninspiring in his performances so far since he has a background in theatre and performing arts but I think the upcoming Dolly Parton and Neil Diamond and Andrew Lloyd Webber weeks should play to his strengths. He did an *amazing* version of Neil Diamond's "Crunchy Granola Suite" in high school so I'm wondering if he'll do that again here.
Ramiele. Oh dear. Shouty, completely lacking any real emotion and outclassed by the backing singers by a mile. I am *so* horribly disappointed by her because she was so good in the audition rounds.
Jason. It doesn't matter if you're cute and have a pleasant voice if you turn out to be a one-trick-pony. Every single week has been almost exactly the same song and performance. This week was no difference. I'm so completely over him. He's utterly dull and doesn't deserve to be in AI if he can't do anything else.
Syesha. Gosh, that was a horribly bad song choice. It just doesn't seem to go anywhere. Leaving that aside even though there was something slightly Whitney-lite about the performance I thought the vocals were very good. No idea why she ended up in the bottom three. Maybe people just aren't feeling her or something.
Cheesy. Chris pointed out that this kind of performance is the bit in a concert where you go to the loo because you're not bothered about missing the song. Again it seemed to be more a problem with the song choice than the actual performance sing his vocals weren't awful but it was really bloody dull. It wasn't as monstrously bad as last week, but then again very little could have been.
Brooke. Ooops, cock up at the start there but she didn;t let it phase her, which is good. Looked absolutely stunning this week too. Hate the song but more and more I *love* her voice. She's not one to blow you away with a storming performance but she's brilliant at doing the simple, engaging performances in the same kind of way that Tori Amos or Shelby Lynne are. She's never going to be a chart topping pop star because that's not the kind of market she's going to appeal to but if she becomes the artist that she almost is already then she could have a superb career.
Michael. Erm, was it me or did some of the backing singers cock up really badly in the first chorus? Heh. Hmm. I'm not entirely sure. I don't think it was the best Queen song (or songs really) for him because it doesn't quite show the full range of his voice. It's still not the level of his Bohemian Rhapsody but it was an awful lot better than anythign else he's done since then. He's very hot, but he's not as good as I want him to be. Or at least he's not shown how good he could be.
Carly. The backing singer seemed to be way out again. That's not good. Plus the lack of a wing machine and huge hair clearly detracted from the song. Plus boo-boo with the lines not good. Oh, and really duff note at the end. Almost too easy a song for Carly since it either seemed too obvious or not interesting enough for her. Possibly Simon was right and it was something about her attitude or tension. It may just have been that the song had been cut diwn too much. Not sure.
David A. I often havea go about the judges criticising people for doing songs that were 'too old' or 'too young' for them. In this case he is way too young to sing a sing like this. It just seemed stupid. Add that to the really dodgy vocals (a first for him) and it meant he had a pretty bad night. At first I thought he was a cert for the final, but I'm not sure if that's the case any more because he's been pretty forgettable the last couple of weeks.
Kristi. OK, vocals this week were much better but she needs to be thrown through a window for picking such an appaling, vapid, nauseous, jingoistic pile of claptrap. She's cynically suddenly become a country singer because Simon said she should become one and then she comes out with a song like that clearly designed to get votes simply because of the sentiment. That gets any credit she got for her vocals thrown out.
David C. Take off his wig, adjust the colour and what do you get? Why yes, it's Homer Simpson. Only without the charm. Utterly, utterly self indulgent and yet at the same time derivative. His whole vocal technique, inflections and phrasing sounds like it's been lifted from other performers. Plus as the song went on it became an absolute bloody dirge. The vocals, technically, were fine but I cannot, absolutely cannot, understand why people like this man so much. There is no way in hell he deserves to win if he's going to come out with a performance like that which veered from histrionics to suicidal dirge in the space of two minutes. Utter pish.
Based purely on vocals Ramiele should probably have gone. Jason desereved to go for just being brain numbingly tedious but if I'd had my way David C would have gone for being a self absorbed plank of vileness. Cheesy going doesn;t bother me though.
On the other hand Brooke really cemented her place at the top for me this week. She came across as sophisticated and classy and still seems to be a very nice, personable, modest woman without being *too* nice. She's the only one that I'd buy an album from at the moment though.
I still believe that Ramiele should have been the one to go. Sometimes I just don't understand the voters' choices.
I have to admit that I don't find David Cook to be very interesting or charming as a person, but I find his performances quite entertaining. I like that he does interesting renditions of known songs. That reminds me, I must seek out Chris Cornell's version of Billy Jean.
Honestly, I'm dreading the upcoming mentor weeks. Dolly, Neil, Mariah... there are some beloved songs that could really get butchered! I'll just keep my fingers crossed and hope for the best.
Dolly and Neil, even Lloyd Weber, I can see being pretty good because they have such a wide range of songs to chose from and they all have songs that could be intepreted in very different ways. Carey though I'm just sceptical about. If they're going to have to do her songs then they're pretty limited and it's really not going to suit a fair few of them. If they're going to be doing something other than Carey songs then what's the point of having her as a mentor?
Overall, Dolly Parton night wasn't as bad as I feared. I like her enough, and I know her big songs, but I certainly don't know most of her 3000 songs!
Least favorite to most favorite...
Ramiele. Despite her cute factor, and the fact that she actually can sing, I'm just not impressed by her.
Carly. It was pretty but quite dull. I want to like this girl, but I just don't.
Brooke. It seemed like she was just getting it done instead of actually trying to win.
Kristie Lee. She sounded fine, but she's so dull to watch, which is weird because she's beautiful.
Jason. There was nothing wrong with his performance, it was just sort of forgettable.
Syesha. It started off tender and pretty, and then it turned into a Whitney Houston impersonation... except that one extra long note. That was cool.
David Cook. I didn't know that song, but I thought he "did his thing" with it. I liked it a lot.
David Archuleta. In his zone. Again, a song I don't know, but it was very good.
Michael Johns. I didn't know the song, but the way he did it was just perfect for him. I liked the bluesy feel. I'll definitely be seeking this out. I love when this happens. This is what I expected from him all along!
Okay, but hang on... was Michael wearing an ascot?
Let me start by saying I like everyone this year. It's so hard to choose when they all can sing (unlike every other year). I closed my eyes for most of the performances so that I could experience hearing them on the radio. With that in mind, my favorite voices were:
Carly - so pure and such a range. I love her voice and if she recorded songs I like, I'd buy her cd.
Jason - I grew up in the 60's and love folk music. Jason's got that voice. I'll definitely buy Jason's cd
David Archuleta - with my eyes closed, little Alfred E. Newman actually sounded like a country rock singer. Very nice tone.
David Cook's voice is gorgeous, to my ears. I didn't like the song, but I like listening to him.
Syesha was very good but should have tried for some of the high notes.
Kristie Lee was just swell.
Brooke was awful. I was so disappointed in her.
Michael Johns is beautiful. But eyes closed, he wasn't the top performer tonight. I'd like to hear him do some Roxie Music. There's a Brian Ferry vibe to him that I think he should explore.
Ramiele sounded the most like Dolly, but then, Dolly would never win American Idol.
Brooke was the worst. Ramiele wasn't great either, I have no clue who will go home, because that's not based on talent, but on popularity.
*love* Dolly. Love Dolly songs. Not sure I love Dolly songs on AI.
Brooke. Not keen. It wasn't awful but it wasn't anything special and she was seriously off key through a lot of it. The first time Brooke has really disappointed me. I hope it doens;t put her in the danger zone.
Bad Hair David. His hair looks marginally less awful this week. He does appear to be getting rather tubby though. A straightforward version of a brilliant song. For the first time with him I did't hate it. I didn't love it either though, and his overly-breathy singing annoys me. Still can't stand him though.
Ramiele. Lovely song, but decptively hard. It's chirpy and happy but deceptively complicated musically. Ramiele, cute as she is, simply isn't up to that kind of challenege. She was mumbly and drowned out by the music a lot and then would shout a bit to compensate. Her shoes also made her look bizarrely like she had shiny hooves as well.
Jason. He picked a song that should have sounded completely different from his previous performances. Erm... somehow he managed to make it sound the same as everything else he's done. Slightly faster but with really, really cracked high notes. His vocal range clearly is pretty appalling if he can't even get the high notes when they're not very high. Jason's mediocrity is starting to verge on the offensive now.
Carly. I think the arrangement may have been a little slow, but I don't know if that's just because I'm so used to Dolly's original. Vocally though Carly was absolutely amazing. She has a range and control of her voice that far outstrips most of the other finalists. I really like Carly and yet there's something ever so slightly missing from her. Not sure what though.
David A. The emotion felt a little false, but I think that's an age and experience rather than anything else (the song didn;t make much sense in relation to his age either). Vocally though it was by far his best performance for weeks. He kept it simple but showed how good a singer he is. I think the thing with David is that he's a superb singer but he's just an OK performer. If he learns how to work the stage and bring a bit more life to his performances then they might match up with his voice.
Kristi. Stupid song to pick. If you're having to do a Dolly song don't pick one that everyone knows so will compare your performance to completely. It didn't help that her timing was completely off. The notes all seemed to be in tune for the first time but her timing just was bizarre. Still, probably her best performance for weeks too. Just unfortunate that it was still bloody dull. Her sarcastic attitude with Simon at the end also lost her many, many points in my book. There's no need to behave like a spoilt child just because Simon didn't like the performance.
Syesha. Another stupid song to pick. Either doing it Dolly's (lovely) version or Witless Howling's (awful) versiona nd you're just setting yourself up for unfavourable comparissons. She looked happy all the way through the song which sort of misses the point. Overall though a little plodding at turns and then histrionic at others. The only reason I didn;t hate it as much as the Witless version was because it was a hell of a lot shorter. Vocally strong, performance-wise bloody awful.
Michael. A bit slow but probably one of the best performances of the night. He was slightly shouty at places but that was much closer to the brilliance of his auditions round. Plus I so would.
Of course the big question is where is Lash? He should have commented on Dolly night by now.
HOw come none of you AI fans has brought up David Cook's heart condition which required him to be rushed to a discreet emergency room after the show?? His brother's cancer is back, and David is feeling guilty for not being with his brother and he is apparently quite run down. They say he has dangerously high blood pressure and an irregular heartbeat which may or may not be part of a problem he has had for a long while. Fans are worried he is seriously ill and non-fans are saying he is playing the high drama card i.e. Marie Osmond on Dancing With the Stars when she 'fainted.'
Sorry SG, I meant to respond to that last week. I was really surprised when Ryan mentioned that stuff about David's blood pressure. I'd never heard any of it before. I wish it could be left private for his sake, but I realize that nowadays, every celebrity tidbit makes the press. I'm appalled that there are people who accuse him of playing a "drama card."
"Inspiration" week... least favorite to favorite.
David Cook. I just thought it was a terrible song. I don't know it, but I was annoyed by it.
Carly. I thought it was a mess. I don't like her anyway, so this did nothing to change that.
Michael. This is the kind of performance Michael was giving when I didn't think he was living up to his potential. Shouty.
Brooke. A very sweet song, but not very interesting. She seemed really nervous.
Kristie Lee. I liked it. There were some slow parts to it, but it went well.
Jason. Love that version of the song. I thought he did it perfectly. It's very him.
Syesha. I liked it, but no one can deliver that song like Fantasia. Not even Diana DeGarmo. Still, Syesha can really sing.
David A. I like Jessica Simpson's version of the song, I like Robbie William's version and I like David's too.
It wasn't great last night. I hate "inspirational" songs. I just thank God that no-one sang "The Wind Beneath My Wings."
I liked Jason, Kristie, and Syesha. I don't understand the criticism Syesha gets. If this were any other year, she'd be top of the pack.
The weakest for me were David Cook (bad, boring, tuneless song choice), Brooke (boring, boring, boring) and David A (just listen to the Robbie Williams version of Angels on YouTube to hear what this song should really sound like. David A's version was awful, despite the judges' praise.)
The others, Michael and Carly, were decent but not stellar.
Still, all these contestants are so much better than in past years. Any one of them, competing in a past year, could have taken the whole thing.
Just watched Idol gives back. My favorites were Carrie Underwood and Annie Lennox.
My jaw was agog when I saw those dancers from `So You Think You Can Dance` open up the show. Their dancing talent just left the Idols` singing talent in the dust.
What was Teri Hatcher thinking!
I've turned on a few minutes late so I've probably missed someone, but anyway...
Nauseous theme this week. What is it about you Americans and overloads of schmaltz? Ugh.
Syesha. Hmm. I'm not sure. She seemed to be reaching at the end and I can understand what Randy and Simon meant. I still don't really know who she is and there's something actually quite cocky and slightly false about her. Not sure what though.
Jason. Rainbow is such a bloody cliched song in AI that I'd rather it be banned from now on. On the other hand I love that version of it. On the other other hand I don't love Jason doing it. He started off OK but then sounded really strained and went straight back into his wonky jaw gurning and squeaky weak high notes. I just wish he'd go.
Kristi. Bloody hell, knock me down with a feather, but Kristi was actually bloody good. Randy was right about there being some pitch problems but it was a million times better than anything she's done before now and she actually looked pretty good. Even with big Country vote out there unless she can be at least this good every week and better she's still not going to last more than a couple of weeks though. Probably..... She's going to win now isn't she?
David Cook. Fnurg gurp grurgle FNARP grunt grunt GARP! Did he decide his gimmick this week would be to completely mumble every single word? Actually, no, not every single word because some of them he just shouted. Prevous weeks his vocals have been technically very good but I've hated his performances. This week both his vocals and his performance were hideous. Although neither were as hideous as that appalingly bad jacket.
Carly. I *love* this song. For some reason though Carly didn't pull it off. Her vocals were really weak (by her standards at least) and she just seemed to be being a little over-dramatic, which is saying something for a Queen song. It wasn't awful exactly but it wasn't really good enough.
David A. David really doesn't have much personality does he? I don't know if it's his slightly annoying voice or his utter inoffensiveness but he's very dull. His performance this week was just as dull and he had some really duff notes.
Brooke. A rather predicatable song for Brooke and not a great performance. When Brooke is good she's very, very good. When she's not she's just a bit meh. This week she was a bit meh. Not bad, but disappointing.
So the only one I missed was Michael, but going from the clip at the end of the programme he wasn't great. Rather shouty and not great. But I'd still keep him as my personal love bunny.
Going off this week's performances, wonder of wonders, I'd put Kristi as the best. Both the David were very bad and Carly, unfortunately, should also be in the bottom three. The others were pretty meh all round.
A new night job is unfortunately taking my time up on Tues & Weds nights, but there is a big-screen flatscreen TV there and we have it on AI so I am at least catching the shows, just less time to comment here.
Best this "inspiration" week were David A (I too love Robbie and Jessica's versions), Brooke (still the only one I would buy an actual CD from right this moment), Jason "dreads" Castro (it fit him perfectly) and Kristi Lee Cook (inching up towards my second pick for buying a CD from but not there yet).
Syesha choked on "I Believe" but mainly because only Fantasia can deliver that song. I feel absolutely no connection to Michael Johns. David Cook was boring and I thought Carly was just awful.
Weds. night had some real top-notch talent. I thought I'd fall out when HEART performed, they were magnificent!!
As for tonight's exodus, I'm cool with that though I honestly thought it would be either one of the girls.
Well, I'm not okay with tonight's elimination. While it may not be on par with the elimination scandals of the past -- Nadia Turner, Chris Daughtry, and Melinda Doolittle, it was still pretty bad. I'm afraid I've started to detest David Archuleta and his insipidly boring ballads, and Brooke with her monotone performances. I want them gone. Then I'd be happy with any of the remaining singers winning.
Tonight's exit was a bit of a shock, huh? Michael was not my very favorite, but definitely one of my top three or four. Probably should have had at least 2 or 3 others go before that one.
Of my top two favorites, Carly, was in danger tonight, so better Michael than her for me. I was certainly glad that David Cook didn't get put in danger after an admittedly weak night Tuesday. His fan base must be pretty solid, at least. Carly better sing her ass off next week!
Kristi Lee's really ramping it up lately, huh? But she has been in her element a lot lately. If next week's theme is off her strengths and she doesn't step up, she could backpedal. If she continues to run hot, though, she could be our dark horse.
I'm about sick of Brooke and Jason. They're pretty good, but always oh-so safe (read: boring!) with their choices. Even though Jason was better than recent weeks, didn't anyone else notice that he took a breath seemingly after every word? Having a bit of singing background myself, that really annoys me!
Syesha's just Syesha you know? She is a pale comparison to either Jordin or Fantasia, who she probably aspires to be. She's certainly not bad though.
And David A...nice pipes, but zero charisma for anyone not a teeny-bopper!
God, Michael really did go too soon! Ugh!
I was surprised Michael was voted out. I mean, I've liked his performances a few times, but didn't like them a few times. To me, his best was the Dolly Parton song. I thought he botched Aerosmith. I guess I expected him to last longer.
Huh, Michael then? It's a shame he's gone this early because I really wanted to like him but to be honest his performanes have been pretty mediocre for the most part. He's very hot but he's onyl had a couple of really good performances and never lived up to his potential. Unfortunately I think that's true of almost all of them this season.
It's Mariah night, tomorrow. I love Mariah. I'm kind of bummed we won't get to see what Michael would have done with one of her songs. If he stayed, I would have wanted to hear him do "We Belong Together." Why not?
Musings...
I hope Jason does "My All" in his typical Jason fashion, with acoustic guitar.
I bet Carly gives a wanna-be performance, but not even close to Mariah.
I bet Syesha does an up-tempo song, which will come off cheesey. She'll kick herself for not doing a big ballad.
David A. will do a beautiful rendition of whichever song he picks. Girls will scream.
Kristie Lee will slightly countrify "Butterfly." It'll be pretty dang good!
David Cook will take on "Vision of Love." Randy won't "feel it." Paula will call him a true artist. Simon will call him the next adjective on the list that means arrogant.
Brooke will sing "I Don't Wanna Cry" but she will when she gets voted off the following night.
Thanks. That was self-indulgent fun!
Well, let's see how close my predictions were to my opinions of the actual performances. Again, I love Mariah and most of her songs, so I don't want people messing them up.....
Least favorite to most favorite:
Brooke sang "Hero" and I quite liked it. She did it her way, which worked for me. She did mention crying, though it was about her sister's wedding.
Carly was better, IMO, than the judges said, and I'm not a big fan. It wasn't a wanna-be performance. It was a Carly performance.
Kristie Lee. I love "Forever." It has that doo wop doo waaa feel to it. She's not the strongest vocalist ever, but I did approve of her version with the steel guitar sounds. I predicted that she'd do that... I just got the wrong song.
David A. did a very good job. He's very good and the girls screamed for him.
Jason did "I Don't Wanna Cry" his way and I liked it a lot. I want to go to that luau with Paula and Randy. I'll have poi and a burger!
David Cook. I love that he arranges songs into his style. I was totally wrong about the judges' opinions except Paula. It wasn't his strongest vocal, but I like what he does.
Syesha did a beautiful job with a beautiful song. As a Mariah fan, I was pleased. My prediction for her was WAY OFF!
Mariah night was much better than I expected, everyone did pretty well to excellent.
David A. opened with a vocal explosion that would prove impossible to beat, only to match with the later contestants' unique styles. To me, he sounded a little overshadowed by the backup vocalists.
Brooke's "unplugged" version of "HERO" sat very well with me. I care less about performances that contain "vocal acrobatics" and prefer a performance that touches my heart. Brooke always manages to acomplish the latter. To show my devotion, I pulled out the phone and voted for the first time this season.
Kristi Lee was also quite good to me.
David Cook was great but sounds every week more and more like Daughtry Junior.
Jason Castro was unique and excellent in his own way.
Carly and Syesha were pretty good but still don't really float my boat. This season seems more about semi-unique performers like Brooke, Jason and David Cook and less about the vocal powerhouses of seasons past. Besides, the vocal powerhouse position is already filled by David A, who is likely going to win it all anyway.
This will be a tough week for anyone to go, as all did well.
re: tonight's ep
1) I always loathe the episode where they split the groups up into two and don't say which is which, then ask a final contestant to choose which group he/she feels he/she should join
2) I knew from the start they would leave the young, possibly bewildered David A for last and ask him to choose a group
3) David A handled it very well; he isn't as bewildered as they hoped he would be
4) The switching of David Cook for Syesha was tacky and tasteless
5) I held my breath for Brooke tonight
6) Kristi Lee has done better than anyone expected; good for her
Well, I ditto everything Lash says above... except:
I expected Brooke to be out.
More notes....
It was great to see Elliott. I thought he looked old, then they said he'd just lost his mother, so that explained that. Wow, I'm amazed when people can perform while dealing with stuff like that.
There was something wrong with the sound during Mariah's performance. Weird. Maybe it was all the rhinestones on the mic? I'm gonna need to hear that song a couple more times before I "get it."
Heh... nice dress though...
Having David A. get called out last and inevitably be safe and then inevitably be asked to pick the safe side and then inevitably only have him sit down to stay neutral (this was all played out in another season, forget which)was all so predictable. Did David A. get the lone safe announcement because he had the highest number of votes or does it just set him up as the inevitable winner of last night's round? I thought the clear winner was David C. so I would have liked to have seen him getting the last call out, not David A. It would have been mildly suspenseful to entertain at least the slightest possibility that David A. could have been in the bottom 3.
Was I the only one that noticed that Jose Penala ("Sway") was backing up Elliott Yamin during his song?
I may be wrong but it sure looked like him.
We only watcehd the recap of the preformances and I can't say I think we missed anything. Overall a pretty bloody awful week, but then again despite them having some incredibly strong singers this season has me the least interested of any for a fair few years.
David A, Kristi and Jason were bloody awful. Jason has gone from being quite good to being unutterably punchable with his wonky mouth, constantly shut eyes and oh-so-earnest tedious delivery. Brooke wasn't very good but still has more persoanlity than most of the others put together. David C annoyed me yet again. Syesha was pretty good but oddly forgettable (although I still don't understand why she keeps ending up in the bottom three because forgettable as she is she's not exactly bad). Carly was also alright but nothing to write home about.
At this point I don't really care who wins. None of them excite me very much. I think it'll probably come down to the two Davids but whatever happens it's not going to be a great final.
My faves tonight:
SYESHA and DAVID COOK ruled
DAVID A was probably third place for me
BROOKE disappointed with a not-so-great choice of song
JASON CASTRO's musical eyes were bigger than his stomach
CARLY I didn't pat attention to
I was kinda dreading tonight's show, but it wasn't as bad as I feared.
Least favorite to most....
Oh, Brooke, you're not supposed to start it over! You wing it! Still, it was a good song for her voice.
Jason. I didn't hate it. I thought it was Jason doing the Jason thing.
David A. I don't know the song, and it was good, but I wasn't wowed.
Finally, to me, this was Carly's best. I've never been really impressed with her even though she's quite capable. This impressed me!
David Cook did a really good job. I didn't think he'd be good at that song, but he was!
Syesha was better than ever! Yeah, it's her genre. She looked hot.
I agree almost word for word with Sketch Lad. Syesha was probably the best, along with David Cook. They were both brilliant. Carly was also superb. Jason was okay for a coffee house. Brooke messed up. And David "Alfred E. Newman" Archuleta sucked big time. I'm so sick of his boring forgettable ballads. I actually fast forwarded through the last part of his drivel. He's everything I hate about American Idol. If he could go, I'd love the rest of the season. (I know that's not going to happen, though.)
It just didn't make sense to me that Carly and Syesha were in the bottom. It totally should have been Jason and Brooke... but whatever... Michael shouldn't be gone yet, either, so what do I know. Oh, and Bo didn't win and Carrie Underwood is the biggest selling AI artist ever.
Anyway, I'm glad it was Carly that went and not Syesha.
I've asked a few people I know (one of them an actual musician) what they thought of Brooke stopping and re-starting. Everyone said she did the right thing. I simply wasn't sure what to think of that. My earlier comment was that it was a good song for her voice, and I stand by that. In fact, I think she did the song quite well.
So, Carly has never been a favorite of mine. I know she's very talented, but she has bad taste in songs. I wish her the best. Maybe she'll make it with original songs?
Off the op of my head, my favorite Season 7 moments...
Archuleta's "Imagine"
Michael's "Across the Universe"
Michael's "It's All Wrong But It's Alright"
Syesha's "Vanishing"
Kristie Lee's "Forever"
David Cook's "Always Be My Baby"
David Cook's "Little Sparrow"
I might have different opinions at another time, but for now, that's my opinion.
Add Syesha's "One Rock and Roll Too Many." Can't get it out of my head!
This has been a good year. My favorite moments are (if I can remember)
Carly singing that Beatles song - was it "Get Back"? I don't like the song but she almost made me like it, she was so good.
Syesha's "one rock and Roll Too Many" was one of the best Idol performances ever.
David Cook had so many memorable performances, but the one I remember the best, because it was so surprising, was "Billy Jean." I don't care for the song, but he made me love love it.
Brooke singing "You're so Vain."
Jason singing "Over the Rainbow."
Michael Johns singing "We are the Champions".
David A. singing "Imagine."
I only saw Brooke last night (mostly because I'm just very, very bored of most of the contestants this year) but I didn't quite understand why the judges gave her such a hard time. It wasn't an absolutely stellar performance but I thought it was pretty good.
That said I am so glad that Simon undermined Paula about the stopping thing. Paula's insistence that you should just carry on and 'sing from the heart' is complete and utter bollocks. Every time someone on AI has forgotten the words they've been slated for it. Brooke did exactly the right thing in starting over without making a fuss about it. It made her look far more professional than if she'd just mumbled her way through forgotten words.
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
Add Syesha's "One Rock and Roll Too Many." Can't get it out of my head!
Now I'm gonna kinda regret starting this, because there are actually a lot of standout performances. I loved Jason' Hallelujah and Somewhere Over the Rainbow. I liked Brooke earlier on. And I still like that kid that didn't make it who sang Grace Kelly!
BTW, he's been very consistent except for that lyric hiccup, and he's not my top favorite, but I do believe that Archuletta's gonna win it this season.
Syesha and David Cook tie for my favorite performances, I really liked them both a lot. I didn't care for Brooke or Jason tonight, at all. Archuletta hung in the middle.
I think it'll be David vs David in the finale, but I'm not very Naltorian!
I'm thinking the two David's in the final too which fills me with great ennui. They can both sing but one is horribly dull and the other irritates me hugely. Personally I'd like to see Syesha and Brooke in the final but it's never going to happen.
Well of course I loved Brooke again last night, particularly her second song. I can't fairly judge anyone else as, due to an unexpected surge in business at my new-ish night job, Brooke was the only one I saw both performances of.
But I *can* say I enjoyed everyone in the first round well enough, with Jason as probably my least favorite.
Oh, and everyone in the bar let out either a laugh or sigh of disgust as drunk Paula jacked up what should have been a simple commentary on the round one performances. How embarassing for her!
David v. David seems like a sure thing for the final, but I've certainly been surprised by Idol before....
I'm with Sketch Lad. Syesha and David Cook were my favorites and they are the singers I'd like so see in the final two. The last two weeks I've voted for Syesha 10 times each night because I'm afraid she's in jeopardy (although I can't understand why). Normally I never vote.
I took last night off but was so tired (I've been working 60-70 hour weeks between both jobs) that I was in bed before 6pm. I slept right through AI.
but I've heard Brooke's exit was memorable and emotional. I'll certainly miss her and be watching for her CD, which I've no doubt will come. Maybe she'll get to collaborate with John Mayer.
So, it's Cook all the way for me! I can't stop listening to "All I really Need is You." It's that AI perfect thing that happens when I don't know a song and someone does it really well and it makes me like it and seek it out, etc. I've since heard Neil's version, which is fine but a tad dull next to Cook's. This made me kinda go back and listen to other Cook Greats. He's cool.
Man, he has a giant head, though, huh?
How weird! They had the biggest library of music available to them, and it turned into karaoke night. My least favorite to most favorite....
Jason. Wow. He just didn't deliver. I've liked him a lot throughout the season, but tonight it was really like he ran out of gas.
Cook. So, last week I was convinced that he should take it all the way, then this week he sings Hungry Like The Friggin' Wolf. Bah! His song by The Who was much better, but actually, not by much.
Archuletta. Consistent and well done. I just don't find him very interesting. I should be looking forward to his performances, but I'm not really. Still, he's good.
Syesha. First of all, she looked blazing hot! I like her with long hair and that girl can fill out a dress! I thought it was fun that she did "Proud Mary" but it was a Tina Turner impersonation, but without the TT energy. I love that she felt so connected to "A Change is Gonna Come" but my critique is that she doesn't seem to have any pain in her voice. No blues. I don't wish the blues upon her, but it does help tell the story. Otherwise, her vocal was very nice.
If Syesha gets cut and Jason makes it, I'll scream! I mean, something bizarre could happen like one of the Davids getting cut. Seacrest said it... Tamyra and Daughtry were both in 4th place!
Last night was a joke, possibly my least favorite episode of AI ever.
Dean, you said it, I *should* look forward to li'l David A's performances, but I just don't. Gawd, just imagine the weepy ballads and awful pseudo hip-hop they're going to force him to perform on his CD after he wins... *cringe!*
At this point, I'd rather this season's Sanjaya, Jason Castro, would win.
Last night I again liked Syesha the best and voted for her 10 times in the hope that she will survive this week - she certainly deserves to. The first part of her Proud Mary was excellent and she was really sexy. She got lost in the faster part though. I loved her doing A Change is Going to Come.
Jason Castro's Bob Marley song was awful and I had to fast forward through it. However, despite forgetting the words, I thought Jason did a really nice job on Mr. Tambourine Man. I closed my eyes to listen and is was really very good. That's his comfort zone.
David Cook's song choices weren't good and that hurt him. I still think he's the most versatile and commercially viable of the guys.
David Archuletta, I'll have to admit, did a pretty good job on Stand by Me. I hated his Love Me Tender - you don't put runs (even very minor ones) in an Elvis Presley song (my new rule). That said, as you've all remarked. he's just boring and his zone is limited to treacly ballads. However, the judges seem to be falling all over themselves to praise him. I guess they know their market.
Castro has got to go. He is putting little to no effort into his singing or playinh. And I thought this before Paula's flub.
I miss Brooke.
I miss her too, she was far and away my favorite.
Whew! The appropriate contestant was voted off! Charming kid, though.
Charming? I was thinking more like big stoner myself. The more he talks the stupider he sounds.
Oh, he's DEFinitely a big pothead, but lots of stoners are charming too.
Okay, so next week Syesha goes then we have David v. David and Archuleta is crowned the queen! Pre-DIC-table!
TONIGHT, TUESDAY:
MY OPINION:
All it took was David Cook doing a masterful version of "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face"... I want him to win. And I think he will.
BF's OPINION:
David Cook should win because he will sell more pop/rock albums.... David A has a better voice but he is more 'Christian Contemporary'.
What crap! The judges are building up little Archie and trashing Syesha in order to have a David/David finale. Syesha has more talent in her left upper rear molar than" sappy ballad boy."
So," teenage talent show boy" was as boring as ever tonight. I can't remember a thing he sang. He'll probably win the whole damn thing and carry on the mediocrity of AI.
Syesha was brilliant with Fever. The judges were on crack criticizing her.
David Cook gave me goose-bumps with "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face." The guy is brilliant.
It won't happen, but it should happen --- the final two should be Syesha and David Cook. They're both so talented.
"High school boy" is so limited right now. That's not to say he can't grow, but he's no American Idol, despite the fact that he will probably win and I will probably rant to the wind as impotent as that exercise may be.
Semi, I agree the judges were unduly harsh on Syesha... they definitely either want a David v. David finale, or they know something we don't know about the current vote stats and were maybe preparing her for it.
There was nothing wrong with Archuletta's performance of the Billy Joel song, but it didn't grab me. He was terrible on the Chris Brown song... he seemed 80. OMG... Dan Fogelberg? Now he's 90! Wow. I guess his fans are a mighty texting force!
Syesha did a lovely job on the Alicia Keys song. Her campy "Fever" was fun, but not innovative at all. And her last song, was it a Rhianna song?, was lame. I'm not surprised she was voted off, and I'm sure she'll be Broadway bound!
Cook was excellent on "FTEISYF"!!!!! Perfect! I liked the second rock song, too. I didn't know it, but if you told me it was one of his own I'd believe it. He did well on the Diane Warren/Aerosmith song, too. Nothing new with it, but solid.
I'm really looking forward to the finale! I can't wait to hear these two perform original songs. Right now I hope Cook wins, but I'll give Archuletta a chance.
I hated to see Syesha go mainly because Semi likes her a lot, but I wasn't really surprised about the Dx2 results.
First season in a while to have a guy/guy finale, huh.
Dean-- download Switchfoot's "Dare You to Move" and "Meant to Live" (which I actually prefer). Fun rocky-pop stuff.
I knew Syesha would be going. Can't say I understand it or like it, but it was expected and I accept it. Now on to next week. Is there any information on the format? I remember last year's finale, and even though I didn't care for the two finalists, the overall show was fantastic. I'm looking forward to next week.
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
There was nothing wrong with Archuletta's performance of the Billy Joel song, but it didn't grab me. He was terrible on the Chris Brown song... he seemed 80. OMG... Dan Fogelberg? Now he's 90! Wow. I guess his fans are a mighty texting force!
"Members" in UT are nearly required to text/call for him. I'd love to see the % of what is coming out of Utah because I can guarantee it is over 75% of his votes. Can't turn the TV on without hearing about him or how mistreated his poor father is. Definitely the last season I'll ever pay attention to the show.
I hope they have both Davids do the same song. I always like that. Clay and Ruben didn't have to do the same song. Neither did Taylor and Catherine. I think ever other final 2 did, though.
Justin & Kelly both... "A Moment Like This" and "Before Your Love." I preferred Kelly by far.
Clay & Ruben... Clay did "This is the Night" and Ruben did "Flying Without Wings"
Fantasia and Diana both ...."I Believe" and "Dreams." Fantasia was amazing on both.
Bo and Carrie both... "Inside Your Heaven"
Taylor and Catherine.... Taylor did "Do I Make You Proud" and Cat did "My Destiny"
Jordin and Blake both "This is My Now"
When they do the same song, it makes it easier for me to know which I prefer, even if that person doesn't win.
Well, I didn't get my wish for both singing the same song. Oh well.
I thought they both did a great job. Archuletta was very consistent and put that extra umph into his performances. Cook stayed cool with songs that were a tad less AI Finale, but were respectable.
Over the whole season, I found Cook to be more entertaining. I'd prefer him to win. However, I think Archuletta will win, but Cook will be more successful. We'll see....
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
Over the whole season, I found Cook to be more entertaining. I'd prefer him to win. However, I think Archuletta will win, but Cook will be more successful. We'll see....
Agreed 100%. The judges were falling all over each other to proclaim D.A. the winner... Maybe his voice will change at 18 and he'll end up sounding like Peter Brady.
I particularly like Cook's second song... I could easily hear it playing on the radio.
D.A.'s three weepy ballads threatened to put me to sleep... "Don't Let the Sun..." is *SO* frikkin' over-done/blown, and I thought his choice to revisit "Imagine" was a little lazy.
dialidol.com predicts Cook to be the winner. I'd like to see it, it would be the upset of 2008.
My fingers are crossed for Cook. I'll have to leave the internet soon so I won't peek at the results before the broadcast starts in California. Whatever happens, I'm expecting it to be a fun show tonight.
I watched the whole show, but about 25 minutes behind so I could fast forward through the commercials and Jordin Sparks, Jonas Brothers and Carrie Underwood. My DVR cut off right after Ryan said and the winner of American Idol is ....! I had to go to Zap2It (which I had avoided all night because I'm in California) to find out who friggin' won.
Okay, I'm happy and Cookie is so ready for stardom. Just compare the two guitar hero commercials. Cookie nailed it. Archie's was just embarrassing. Finally the right person won. Cookie's ZZ Top number was classic. Good job, America.
I cried tears of joy!
Love me some David Cook!
I hope his older brother's doing okay, though. Adam Cook has brain cancer, and I admired how David kept this off the air because he didn't want sympathy votes. All David did on air was put the "AC" on his guitar to honor both of his brothers. When he cried after the Collective Soul song, I was thinking about Adam and how David desperately wanted to perform a Depeche Mode (Adam's favorite band) song at some point for him, but A.I. could never secure the rights to do so.
Cook's originality really served him well this season and made his performances must-sees. Some have derisively referred to him as Lil' Daughtry. But I honestly think David could outshine Chris based on what I've seen on Idol, plus David's solo work I've heard from his self-produced solo album.
Honestly, though, I thought Archuleta's teeny-bopper appeal would give him the edge in the votes. In the end I guess Archie was just a little too one-dimensional. I hope he does well, though. He's a nice kid, but he probably needed the win a lot more than Cookie did to build his resume. Without a doubt, Archie can sing really, really well.
Once again, a rousing finale, and I was so glad to see America agreed with me!
WOW!!! The right one won. I'm actually surprised.
OMG....David Cook had me at "Hello." Hah! I wasn't that into him before that. I'm afraid Archuletta peaked with his first time singing "Imagine." Still, a good final 2.
Carrie looked AMAZING! ZZTop shoulda played "Legs" and had Carrie strut around. Success sits well on La Underwood.
George Michael looked like it's worse than a cold, as he said. Yikes. I hope he's okay. He sounded good.
Seal sounded good.
Does anyone else think they have sound troubles on result nights? Do they hire the second string sound people on Wednesdays?
I'm actually able to give up tv now, until Project Runway starts up again! It was a fun season.
I was actually flabbergasted that Cook won-- and overjoyed as well. Had "Gaspy" (as D.A. is called on votefortheworst.com) actually won (as I expected) I would have been SOOOOO over it all.
I guess the judges learned the results earlier-- I noticed that Simon was eating a little crow in regards to the unfairly harsh criticsm of David Cook.
A fun season, overall. It'll be January before we know it...!
I just heard that in August they will be holding open auditions here in Salt Lake City for the next season. Guess they are paying homage to all the Mormon kids who get into the top 12 nearly every season, and now as high as #2. All the little tweens in Utah are moping into their national brands knock off cereal this morning because Archie didn't win. Probably wearing black at Murray High this morning.
Personally I didn't find the appeal about Archie changing up most of his songs and turning them into his 'unique and original style.' This is just my opinion, but I think he would be terriffic on a state fair circuit or in Branson or Disneyland or something. (Or right here in Utah up at Lagoon amusement park, LOL)
Cook won, okay. I know Scott and I won't ever buy any of his albums or go to any of his concerts or whatever.
Look at the school of hard knocks that true American Idols, true American ICONS used to have to go through. Really makes me wonder if there was a way to go back in time and offer up the likes of teenage Dolly, Elvis, Cher, Barry, etc., etc. Just curious how our real idols who have achieved musical immortality would have been treated.
I also wonder how long its going to be before the rest of the story with Archie's father comes out. That nut job is a ticking time bomb and he has got to be royally pissed and waiting for an excuse. Again all just my take, no biggie.
I said last night, "Uh oh! Li'l David's going to get SUCH a whippin' tonight!" Yeah, his Dad just seems a bit creepy. And WHERE is Mom in all this?
I know it's not new or anything, but I'm still liking Jordin & Chris' "No Air."
So I've been travelling a bit over the last couple of months and haven't been able to keep up with AI unfortunately.
I missed the week that Michael got kicked off on but was obviously very disappointed to hear about it. I really think he would have killed in later weeks but those lack-lustre early performances did him in I guess. I think he got the exposure he wanted from it though so it's really up to him where he goes from here. My brother lives with him in L.A. now so I will keep you all informed of any exciting news that I hear.
Neither of the two Davids were particular faves of mine so I was pretty Meh about the whole Final. I grew to really like Jason and Kristy Lee towards their ends though and would definitely keep an open mind about any CDs they might release. Chickezie and Brooke too.
One thing that I am totally OVER re: AI though are Simon, Randy and (to a lesser extent) Paula and that whole annoying cult of non-personality this show feeds into for them. I haven't heard Randy say one constructive or intelligent thing the entire time I've watched this show. What's he doing there? Simon is an ego-maniacal twat who clearly chooses favourites and then sabotages the rest. And Paula is having a breakdown on national television. But at least that's funny to watch.
Heh. I can condense ebverything Randy said all season into this:
You can sing the phone book, dawg. You're in the zone, it was just a'ight for me.
They've become caricatures of themselves.
Blacula, I saw the clip of Michael on Ellen. He was really good with that Dolly Parton song. I hope it's on any cd he puts out. I wish him the best, he's got a lot of fans out there.
I became a Cook fan over the course of the season, for sure. I've re-watched several of his performances since the show ended. Whatever happened to "best of" AI cd's? Have iTunes and youtube rendered them unnecessary?
Hey,
The season premiered!
I had fun. Had a few laughs.
X-ray cracked us up, in our house.
Bikini Girl's gonna get crushed in Hollywood.
The new judge isn't all that interesting, but maybe it'll get better as the season progresses.
Lots of good stories last night.
Hello,
Welcome to Sketch Lad's American Idol Season 8 Blog! I'm Sketch Lad.
This week, as usual, the goofy auditions were goofy and the good auditions were good. As usual, I'm tired of this part and can't wait til Hollywood Week and the actual competition.
Please, feel free to make my personal AI8 blog into a message board thread. Post any time!
Love,
Sketch
Hi Sketchy! Long story short: I missed last week's episodes!
But I saw this week's.
There were a couple of girls we caught snippets of making it to Hollywood, one had wine hair and wone had blonde with purple ends, both intrigued me... probably because of my fascination with purple-haired chicks. Plus lots of cute guys!
I LOATHED the first girl last night, Miss Gigglepuss. GO HOME already. You're obviously too cute for AI.
Alexis, the Memphis girl. One of my coworkers met her on a plane and he told us she said she makes it to Hollywood and to be sure to watch last night's episode. She was cute.
I was so prepared to be over the last chick last night, because I'm so tired of "I was raised with nothing" sob-stories, but she totally won me over by singing an original song she had written that seemed nearly ready for radio-play. Good for her!
There are some changes coming, I hear:
Hollywood rounds will last for 2 televised weeks (4 episodes) this season, so we should get to know everyone fairly well.
Also, we will have a top 36, not a top 24. They will be divided into groups (much like Season 3), and trhe top boy and top girl votegetter PLUS the next highest votegetter (regardless of gender) will make it through.
And there will be a Wild-Card round for the judges' picks again (which is good, because Jennifer Hudson never would have made it through without being Randy's wild card pick).
Good stuff coming up.
Glad you're here, Lash!
Oh, did anyone notice that there was a contestant named Casey Carlson? Like KC Carlson, weird huh? In fact this thread was originally started because of a contestant named Carlos Pacheo.
Just thought that was neato.
It seems like there will be a very young, attractive set of contestants in Hollywood.
I'm glad the audition section is nearly over. I may or may not watch tomorrow night.
I loved hippychick Rose. I like hippychicks. So free-lovin' and stuff.
I'm going to try to catch tonight, but no promises.
Vote for the Worst is full of spoilers about who is making the top 36!!
Well, of course I watched. The guy who joked with Simon was cracking me up! I can't imagine that he'll get through Hollywood.
Yeah, lots of pretty, pretty girls getting through. I predict a pretty girl winner this season!
So this is the way I like AI... the hour went by SO fast! We heard some very good potential singers.
I'll watch again tomorrow night. I didn't hear anyone with a voice that would make me consider buying their CD tonight.
-2 cents worth - more or less
The guy with the comedy shtick both ticks me off for the unfunny schlock (I laugh at some of it too though-I know I'm pathetic) and surprises me because the guy really does have some talent deep down inside there, he's got a nice voice.
I mean, I get it, it's easier to handle rejection by playing the clown and he's genuinely surprised by making it through the auditions so far.
Have we found this year's Sanjaya?
Paula gave me a laugh during his audition too, "I really want to hear your voice. I want to hear you sing all stripped down" very awkward nervous chuckle moment.
The bikini girl annoys me. She's already set herself up as a victim but she can't effin sing! When she gets tossed she'll be all sob sister, "She hates me! That's why!" but I can't stand her singing through her nose like that.
Simon is smiling more than ever. What's up with that?
I have a favorite... the dark-haired gravelly-voiced chick who sang original stuff in the auditions and makes weird faces when she sang in Hollywood.
I have been totally surprised-- though not really unpleasantly-- that comedy-singer dude has made it thus far.
Tonight's group drama just about wore me out.
Was anyone surprised to see the MEGA-HOT Osmond boy go home?
People are so stupid, stupid, stupid to let their own personal drama get in the way of doing a great job in the groups. And don't they know that complicated choreography NEVER impresses? And how can they spend HOURS practicing a song and forget the words? I mean, I know nerves and fatigue kick in, but if they can't do this, how do they expect to be able to perform a WHOLE song in front of hundreds of people in a live audience (plus millions watching on tv, then on youtube forever after)?
There were a lot of good singers in Hollywood. This could be a year where they don't have dumb clowns stealing time away from good singers in the competition. That'd be great!
Tonight just made me tired. I don't care for these interview session shows.
Are they going to do the mentor bit this season?
OMG, 2 hours of yeses and nos. Blah!
that tatiana girl might be evil incarnate.
I love Adam, but I haven't heard him sing yet.
lol
He's just so beautiful and poised and his manner is so lovcly (and that's just from the moment I saw him tonight).
How come the judges pick so many people who just push a song out with that kind of flat sound?
There were a few who weren't like that, the blind guy and the one with glasses, come to mind.
I was glad that they kept both of the construction workers, even though they were in the last singoff.
Lots of queermosexuals in the top 36. My favorite: It's between "Wicked" Adam and Dueling Pianos boy.
Tatiana must be nutso... she goes from gigglepuss to crybaby WAY to easily. Her "it's all about me" nature naturally offends my "it's all about me" sensibilities.
Joanna Pacitti has been disqulaified in case you didn't already know. IMO, with good reason. She had an album out as recently as 2006, her boyfriend is mega-cutie Mark Ballas from "Dancing with the Stars", she has appeared in ads and commercials and she apparently has a 'relationship' with many at 19 ENTERTAINMENT. I'm with vote for the worst.com, she was an obvious "plant", full deails on their website. VFTW is celebrating her disqualification. Some girl named Felicia is taking her place. I can agree with them that this should be more about making a star from an unkown rather than someone already so connected. So YAY for Felicia.
Lil Rounds has an awesome, star-quality name.
I have learned that girl I like who acts odd but sings good is named Jackie. She's in the top 36.
Memphis girl Alexis Grace is there too!
I like widower Danny. I can't believe his BFF was cut! I heard they might have Wild Cards again, so maybe he'll be back?
It's too early for me to know very many names. Danny and Tatiana stand out... and Lil Rounds. She fills the Latoya London/Jennifer Hudson/Melinda type - a type I like a LOT!
I'm not actually going to vote, but my choices are...
Guy: Danny - He was AWESOME, which is cool cuz I already like him... and he did a Mariah song and I love Mariah... but he didn't just copy her, he did it his way.
Girl: Alexis (Alexa?)She looked HOT! and I love a petite little white girl who can sing Aretha with power and soul.
Third place: Anoop or the Oil Rigger Guy or the Braddy guy. Braddy for talent, Anoop and Oil Rigger for personality with some talent.
Tatiana was on medication.
There were some really pretty girls who can't sing very well... actually, who don't know how to pick a song.
Yeah ~ the song picking was pretty bad last night.
Yes, Danny was great and I liked Anoop Dog ~ great way to get his name remembered.
The Oil Rigger has potential, I think and my oldest son, who watched Idol with me last night, likes the little white haired gal.
Those are the 4 we'd pick to go on even though I don't vote this early.
My bad.
Candle, looks like we're in touch with America because Alexis, Danny and Oil Rigger Guy made it!
I have a feeling Anoop may get called back as a wild card choice. We'll see.
Tatiana showed some of her colors tonight, only some. She probably saw her annoying self on tv and decided to tone it down. She may have wild card potential, too. Again, we'll see.
Yeah, Sketch but Jeremy (the son) picked all 4, that is if the country western boy was a finalist.
I was at Bible study and missed until the last few minutes.
I probably don't understand the wild card thing. I thought the judges were supposed to use one tonight.
They'll save them until the end?
I don't think Anoop OR Tatiana are talented enough to win but who knows what'll happen next?
I'm glad the judges saved them for later!
I was channel surfing and stopped on the country channel and saw Carrie Underwood singing Randy Travis' song, "I Told You So."
Wow.
She's awesome.
I didn't know the song, but it's beautiful and so is she.
Did Idol keep 4 the first time or just 3?
Wednesays are hard because Bible study usually runs until 8:30 or so.
I only get to see the last 15 minutes.
Could someone who watches the whole thing write about the essentials that night or post a link?
Please.
Seacrest said that America will vote to keep the top vote getting guy and girl. Then, a third spot will go to the very next highest vote-getter, either guy or girl. So, last week, Danny, Alexis and Oil Rigger were voted in.
This will happen 2 more times, for a total of 9 contestants voted in. THEN, there will be 3 Wild Card contestants, chosen by the judges- for a total of 12.
Whew!
Also, AI is supposed to be on Wed and Thu this week instead of Tue and Wed. Wierd!
Adam was like a hot sexy young gay Elvis. Crap on a stick, he's good.
I know she'll never make it through but I *LOVED* the girl who sang 'Bette Davis Eyes'. I'm a big ol' Kim Carnes fan from WAY back and I thought this chick sang the song better than Kim. She has that voice that sounds like its been drug across a gravel road. LOVE it.
Yeah, Adam was the star of the show. I have to agree with Lash's description of him. The trouble is, not everyone is into that kind of thing.
I liked the really pretty blonde girl with the tats, her performance was a little bit weird.
My other favorite was the 16 year old girl who rocked "Alone" by Heart. She's weird too.
I did not like the welder guy's performance. I didn't like a lot of performances, and as the judges kept saying, a lot of good singers chose odd songs and did them poorly.
BTW, weird is not an insult in my vocabulary. It's a meant as a descriptor.
Thanks fpr explaining to me, Sketch.
I was thinking I had the day wrong last week!
I liked a number of them including 'Bette Davis Eyes'.
But I voted for Adam and Megan(7) and 5(a couple of times).
I just thought they were the strongest and would make for a good competition.
I llked the last girl with the Heart song, too.
This 12 seemed stronger than the last 12.
I don't think Oil Rigger would have made it in this last group.
Which is sad because I like him as much as I like the Welder and want them to do well.
sigh
I really think AI should start with 18 rather than 12 when there's so many promising kids,
My favorite was Meagan. She hit some bad notes, but I liked her vibe...
Your avatar looks like Adam, knowjack!
I'm hoping the judges use wildcards for Megan and Welder guy.
I think it was funny how taken I was with Adam, even before I heard him sing.
I thought if he couldn't really sing, he should be an actor ~ he can sing! but he's already done stage work!
lol
Some of these kids have such huge backgrounds in the entertainment industry already, I don't know why they need Idol.
Fast track, I guess.
I heard here that one girl was disqualified because of her contracts, or something like that.
How does Idol decide who has too much experience and who doesn't?
And does anybody know what happened to the boy last year who was living in his car?
Did he make auditions this year?
Anyway,
The only guy who made an impression of the last 12 to sing is the blindish guy.
I hope there's enough talent in the last group to warrent 3 sponts on the team!
Aw crud! I always miss one of the nights.
I have to agree with Lash. That guy was pretty good. He's got the look and the voice and listening to him talk with his "Aw shucks maam" accent made me want to hear him take on an Elvis song.
I always have a hard time with names. The blonde with the amazing tatoo kicked bootey. I loved her bluesy performance. She doesn't need Idol just cut a CD and get it on the shelves.
I love it when the ones I like make it!
Sorry, but the guy who did "Man in the Mirror" is just totally forgettable to me.
I've considered actually taking notes as I watch these shows, but I'm actually not THAT into it. When we get to the top 12 though, I like to rank them from my least favorite to most favorite and see how it varies week to week. I haven't looked back over the past couple of years of posts here in a while. I'll have to do that soon....
BROOKE.... can't wait to buy her cd!
Megan! I thought that song rolled, it was hot.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPgYMme88iA Doesn't her voice have a fun sexy bounce to it?
Oh, wow. You've got to visit Brooke's MYSPACE page. I know she's last year, but Thursday night reminded me of how much I love her. Really, I think she's an angel.
http://www.myspace.com/brookewhite You'll want to listen to her sweet cover of Coldplay's "YELLOW".
Great space! Of course, I already knew Adam Lambert was a raging queermosexual, but I hope
THESE PHOTOS don't ruin his chances on AI!
He actually looks like a club kid straight out of "Party Monster"...
And PLEASE do yourself a favor and scroll down far enough to see the poster "smartie"'s HI-abso-freakin-LARIOUS Amanda Overmyer avatar. Oh, PLEASE, Gary, can I have it here?!?!?!?
Wow, I actually thought tonight would be the rejects night, but collectively, this group was the best. I think it's going to be a difficult time getting only 3 through.
STANDOUTS, for me...
Von Smith (singer # 1) was surprisingly good.
The blind guy gave me chills (though I love the Bruce Hornsby original of "Mandolin Rain"... great song... think I might try it in scare-aoke).
Felicia Barton was stunning to look at. Not my fave song but she did it well.
Ju'not Joyner stood out mainly because I thought he sucked but the judges were falling all over themselves to complement him.
Blondie who did Tracy Chapman... I agreed it was good, but like a REALLY good karaoke. I adore Chapman's voice, though, so I might be prejudiced against anyone who isn't as deep and powerfully heartfelt.
Gaythaniel did better than I would have suspected, he seems fun. Adam may be hotter but I suspect I'd have more fun with Nate.
Lil Rounds was all okay and stuff, but they are on crack if they think she matched or topped Mary J. Blige. No way. LOVE me some Mary.
I think Jorge is a lock for top guy. Best of the night, for me. The tears were the icing on the voter's cupcakes I'd wager. I'd have given top guy slot to the blind guy before Jorge sang.
Definite bye-byes to:
Cute blonde who sang Martina McBride
Cute dark haired chick who sang ABBA
Cute dorky guy who sang "I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues", though I kinda liked it.
This is going to be a tough week. Very unexpected.
DON'T FORGET: WILD CARDS are selected Thursday night!
It was R&B night for me! I loved Ju'Not and Lil Rounds. Top male and female by far.
For me, it's a tough choice for third place. I liked Mr. Puerto Rico. I liked the last minute girl in black who sang Alicia Keys. I liked the Sunshine Yellow Country Girl.
Otherwise, this show was way better than last week, but some of them were bad... the cute girl who sang Abba, the guy who did IGTWTCITBlues by Elton. Nate was a mess!
Hah! I read Lash's post right after I posted mine. We agree and we disagree. Funny.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Wow, I actually thought tonight would be the rejects night, but collectively, this group was the best. I think it's going to be a difficult time getting only 3 through.
STANDOUTS, for me...
Von Smith (singer # 1) was surprisingly good.
* I thought he was good too. I think he's known as a young Sam Harris. He didn't go over the top, which was a good thing.
The blind guy gave me chills (though I love the Bruce Hornsby original of "Mandolin Rain"... great song... think I might try it in scare-aoke).
* I didn't think he was that good, but you can't deny the impact of his story.
Felicia Barton was stunning to look at. Not my fave song but she did it well.
*She's the one who did Alicia Keys, right? I don't have the names down yet. If it's her, I really liked her even though it was a bit of a copy cat job.
Ju'not Joyner stood out mainly because I thought he sucked but the judges were falling all over themselves to complement him.
*I really liked him. I thought he did a great job.
Blondie who did Tracy Chapman... I agreed it was good, but like a REALLY good karaoke. I adore Chapman's voice, though, so I might be prejudiced against anyone who isn't as deep and powerfully heartfelt.
*She's kind of a mess. I wouldn't miss her.
Gaythaniel did better than I would have suspected, he seems fun. Adam may be hotter but I suspect I'd have more fun with Nate.
*I thought he was silly. He sang okay, but he needs a make-over.
Lil Rounds was all okay and stuff, but they are on crack if they think she matched or topped Mary J. Blige. No way. LOVE me some Mary.
*No, she did not or could not top Mary, but she was awesome. She really nailed it.
I think Jorge is a lock for top guy. Best of the night, for me. The tears were the icing on the voter's cupcakes I'd wager. I'd have given top guy slot to the blind guy before Jorge sang.
* I liked him. I'm happy for anyone who is living their dream like this and appreciates it.
Definite bye-byes to:
Cute blonde who sang Martina McBride
*I liked her, but there are a million of her out there.
Cute dark haired chick who sang ABBA
*Terrible. Good thing she's so cute! (Why am I pushing her button?)
Cute dorky guy who sang "I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues", though I kinda liked it.
*Hated it. I love that song and he totally ruined it.
This is going to be a tough week. Very unexpected.
DON'T FORGET: WILD CARDS are selected Thursday night!
It's totally cool to agree and disagree! I really have high hopes for Lil Rounds, I want 2 Memphis girls in the top 12! I just didn't think she was so Mary. Her confidence level is WAY on up there, though. That can do wonders for you.
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POSSIBLE SPOILERS from DIALIDOL.COM.....
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Top gal: Lil Rounds
Top guy: The blind guy (Scott...?)
As usual, a tossup for 3rd place. They've been right the past 2 weeks....
I'd have voted for Scott, but I was too tired.
sigh
I guess that Adams being gay will effect the way voting goes on Idol.
But, how much it affects him might depend on what kind of career he's looking to create while there.
Idol seems kind of mainstream, for someone who wants an alternative lifestyle audience, acting or singing.
Does that make any sense?
I'm just glad I don't have to figure it out for him!
I can just sit back and enjoy his talent, no matter WHO he wants to kiss.
Okay, so no colossal surprises in who made spots 7-9 (Lil, Scott & Jorge).
The surprises came during the announcements of the Wild Cards!
Biggest shocker- Randy putting Tatiana Del Toro through. The Vote for the Worst Crowd will be thrilled, especially after her over-the-top falling to her knees breakdown after the announcement that she was in!
Best shocker- Paula's last-minute change puts red-headed Jesse who sang "Bette Davis Eyes" through. Unless she jacks up something awful, I'm voting my ass off for her.
Most disappointing- No hope for Felicia Barton, she didn't make the pick for wildcard.
Most expected wildcard- Anoop. Though they made him sweat it out to the last spot.
Von Smith from last night certainly deserved a slot, so good for him.
Others who made wildcard pick:
Jasmine Murray, though after her awful performance I don't know why.
"Tattoo arms" Megan.
"Dueling pianos" Matt and Ricky Braddy, who make an adoreable couple!
The 8 wildcards sing tomorrow and I figure the judges will let us know at the end which 3 of the 8 will make the final 3 members of the top 12.
Nope, no surprises. I'll just say it.... I'm sure Scott got votes based on the sentimentality of his situation. He sounds fine, not incredible. I'm looking forward to the Wild Card performances. I mean, they have to be great, right?
I like the wild card addition.
Tonight should be fun.
I'm hoping for Megan!
The other two, I don't know.
I think that Scott has a lot of potential ~ we'll just have to see how he matures.
I wouldn't have voted for him if he weren't better than the others, imo.
(I WOULD have voted for him, really!)
I really hope Megan turns in a solid performance. I like her "Ricky Lee Jones" R&B style and her sultry voice.
Go Megan!
Y'know, I had a suspicion that this would happen thanks to there being 4 judges now. (You'll see what I mean)
Of the ones put into the final group, I disagree with 2.
I'm good with the choices and the surprise.
Are we doing spoilers now?
I'm good with the choices, too.
Shady, since I'm usually first to post after the elimination thread, I tend to be vague so as not to accidentally spoil anyone in later timezones! Speaking of which, GINORMOUS spoiler speculation at the end of this post. so warning.
Okay... tonight was interesting. Just some snippets until I get more into it.
In the order of who I remember:
ADAM... you may be looking at your next gay boykissing Elvis-looking American Idol. Love him.
ALLISON... I was on the fence. I'm off of it now. Love that she has the voice of a seasoned 40-year old vet.
ALEXIS... Love her look, love the performance.
KRIS... I want to make out with him. Likeable. I agreed with Simon about maybe waiting a couple of weeks to spring the wife on us, though that sounds awful!
ALEX & ANOOP... The judges totally threw them under the bus. Did NOT deseve the reaming-out they got.
LIL... She DOES have the swagger! Likeable.
MICHAEL... He's better than I thought!
MATT... I thought he did well, but I think the Justin Timberlake stuff is going to hurt him in the long run.
JASMINE & MEGAN: Don't really belong there.... out of their league. But Simon has crushes on them so they ARE there...
DANNY... I'm less a fan of his than some are.
SCOTT... I'm sorta on the fence. I want him to show he won't be all Barry Manilow or something.
NOW COMES A SPOILER SPECULATION:
.
.
.
.
WHAT I THINK THE CHANGE WILL BE:
Like on "Dancing with the Stars", the judges will now have 50% say alongside American in who goes.
OR
After bottom 3 are announced, the judges themselves will decide who stays and who goes without the lowest votegetter ever being made public knowledge.
Overall, I thought it was a pretty good show! My least to most favorite....
Anoop -He actually wasn't bad, it's just that the song is too legendary to be done by some random kid like Anoop.
Scott - It just came across as corny and/or cheesey.
Jorge - Again, not actually bad, just not very memorable or interesting.
Kris - I'm not a fan, so it'll take something really cool for me to warm to him.
Jasmine - So cute! I'm sure she's heard Mariah's version of that song all her life. I'd have liked it better if she did it sweeter and smaller.
Megan - I kept thinking "How would Amy Winehouse" do this song?" as I watched Megan. It was interesting, but I'm not sure I was sold. I should be sure.
Matt - I like him, but I think a lot of others in this competition are better.
Lil - Really good! Is it creepy that I wish she was wearing a short skirt with that ruffley top?
Allison - Love a rock chick with pipes! She should try not to talk very much though.
Danny - I AM a fan. I thought he was good with an odd song choice. Don't dance Danny!
Michael - I've always liked him, but I thought this was really, really good!
Alexis - I love her! Great job with an interesting song choice.
Adam - What if Axel Rose sang this Michael Jackson song? Adam! I knew he'd be good, but he really exceeded my expectations.
Thanks for the heads up, MLLASH!
I have to agree with you guys that Scott's voice didn't seem to have much depth or range last night.
sigh
And I'm afraid the girls don't move me, really.
/alexis and Lily were okay but he rocker kid sings all of her songs so that they sound exactly the same and the other teeny was flat quite a lot of the time ~ Paula commented on it.
Adams not even in the same competition, I think, he's so much better.
Like Paula said ~ I don't know why he isn't already a headliner and star.
Without him, it might be a competition ~ a rather bland one, but at least Danny and some of the others would stand a chance.
I know American voting can be unpredictable but geez, Adam would REALLY have to make people mad or something horrible, to loose.
I think the only thing that might hurt him is if he comes across as arrogant, which he hasn't, yet.
As for the judging changes tonight, those are good guesses, LASH.
DIALIDOL.COM info follows! Not really a spoiler as it is in no way official, but be warned that it could be close to accurate!
Dialidol.com has predicted the following 5 to be the highest votegetters and definitely safe tonight:
Danny
Adam
Lil
Alexis
Anoop
The margin of error is tight on all other contestants to really any of them could be on the chopping block, but they have listed the bottom 3 on their site as: Jasmine (11th), Allison (12th) and Jorge (13th).
The eliminations were no surprise.
So, the group numbers are lip synched, right? Seacrest intro'd it as a medley. It was just one song, right?
I can't get into Kanye's current stuff.
Kelly looked pregnant. I suppose that's mean. Sorry Kel.
That about says it, Sketch.
Or is it
?
HooooKAY, tonight was unexpectedly good! I really was surprised.
My personal least favorites and predictions for bottom 3:
MICHAEL SARVER
SCOTT MCINTIRE
MEGAN CORKREY
I thought Alexis was decent-to-good, she may be on the borderline. I did think she made the song more her own and was NOT a copycat of Dolly as Simon suggested.
Lil got reamed and for NO REASON. I appreciated that she kept the country flavor and was aghast that Randy suggested she should have sang the Whitney version of Dolly's "I Will Always Love You", mainly because 'net wags were betting that would be exactly what she WOULD do. She didn't and she did very well.
Adam's performance will be the most polarizing... I personally thought it was awesomely decadent.
I've sorta got a personal dislike of Danny for reasons not worth going into, but I thought he was great tonight and thought Adam better consider mainstreaming himself before Danny kicks him to the curb. Then I decided, screw that. Adam should keep his unique style, who cares if Adam wins, he's now a STAR anyway, let Danny have it.
I thought Allison kicked ass, again. LOVE her 40-year-old voice!
Matt G. was really good and showed that he is a force to be reckoned with.
Anoop was EXCELLENT. Possibly my favorite tonight.
Kris, for me, was just okay, though the judges loved him. I would put him with Alexis on the borderline. Though he is absolutely precious to look at....
If anyone but Scott, Megan or Michael goes tomorrow, I will be really upset I think....
We'll see! If nothing else it will be very interesting....
(I didn't look at Lash's post....)
Wow! Y'know, this year, it's really going to be about how well the singers perform their songs, because they're all really good and all really different from each other.
Another weird thing is that all night, the judges said just about exactly what I was thinking.
My least to most favorite...
11. Scott. The judges said it, he needs to up his game and pick songs that show another side of him.
10. Alexis. It really wasn't bad, I just bet if she could do it over she'd do it a lot better. She didn't nail it.
9. Megan. Poor thing! My brother and his wife had Influenza B this year and it was TERRIBLE! She always reminds me of a blond Amy Winehouse.
8. Lil Rounds. What was this whole compromise thing she was attempting? She should just GIVE IT! She looked great.
7. Kris. Okay, I get it! He's a good singer.
6. Adam. At first I thought he was really off, but then when it kicked into gear, I thought it was really cool. He's a poser, but I know he wouldn't deny that.
5. Allison. Really good. I would like to see a different side of her now.
4. Anoop. He did a great job. I took him seriously. I love that song!
3. Michael. Fun and charismatic. I think the judges tend to be too hard on him.
2. Danny. Yeah, get better at the building verses, but I love his vocal style and choices. I like that he sings girl songs, but makes them into guy songs.
1. Matt. He seemed like a seasoned pro up there. Bonus from me because he introduced me to a song I don't know and like.
Well, I read both of you and I'm happy!
You're why I post on this thread!
Kris, Matt, Danny and Anoop were amazing, tonight.
I really am enjoying how they're maturing as performers!
Scott had more range tonight and I love his piano playing.
Paula was right in a way, I think, he needs to connect with the audience more.
How does Stevie Wonder do it?!
Elton John looks at people a lot, even though he's at the piano, but Stevie wears sunglasses.
Maybe that's what Scott should do, wear sunglasses!
Adam was, well, Adam.
lol
If he ever records an album, I hope he includes that version of a 'Burning Ring of Fire'.
It was almost eerie and very stage productionish.
I could see a writer building a whole show around Adam and that song ~ something dark and strange, with vampires and things.
He certainly made me laugh and I'll always remember that performance!
(Even though it had a little bit of that arrogance in it that might hurt him.)
I missed Michael's performance altogether, sigh.
Lil's look was lovely ~ her dress reminded me of the designs by last year's winner of Project Runway, I can't remember her name but I remember her style!
Lil has a good voice, but the song didn't really work for her, I thought.
Allison always sounds the same, to me.
Alexis did sound like Dolly, I thoiught, she looked like her, too (sans a big wig and breasts.)
I thought Megan was the best of the women, but I agree with Simon that she needs to somehow keep her individual look and not let the dressers make her too generic.
And what's with Paula and Simon?
They've seemed kind of 'chummy, flirty, couplish' the last few shows.
Am I crazy?!
I can't like the new judge, either.
Who IS she, anyway?
Paula knows SO much more about music than this new gal seems to.
And I find that she doesn't really say anything new or interesting.
Like ~ the 'could sing a phone book' has been done to death.
Tomorrow should be interesting!
I have to admit that I'm not shocked. I did think that Michael was going to be out, though, which I would have thought was wrong.
I LOVE Carrie singing "I told You So" which I posted earlier on. Randy Travis just handed it over to her. Has anyone else heard her verion of "How Great Thou Art"? LOVE it! Jeez, I might have to admit that I'm glad my man Bo Bice lost!
Me too. Carrie was the right one that year. I was re-reading this thread and was amazed at some of my earlier feelings that are now different (Kellie Pickler RULES!!). Also, some predictions that were either dead on or WAY off....
As for Alexis, upon reflection, her song was really not that good. She even tried to psychedelify it somehwat like Adam, but she just doesn't have that "it" (whatever "it" is) that he has, to do that and get away with it.
I record these episodes now, and I have to admit that I'm intrigued by Adam Lambert. I've listened to his versions of Black and White and Ring of Fire many, many times each.
I suppose I should revisit my least to most favorite review.
PHOTOMANIP IDEA!
Adam Lambert as Color Kid!
Just youtube'd Adam. Found his version of "Come Home" by OneRepublic.
UH - mazing!
I can't beleive Megan's still in it! Amazing.
I really like her unusual sound and she's got some skills but like Lash I don't think she has the chops to go all the way with this.
All these guys get to go on tour though so those who may be a little short on experience or showmanship are going to have a whole year on stage to try their hand at it. Someone as young as 16 or even all those 20somethings can learn a whale of a lot with an experience like that.
For the record - I hate it when they do a "Country Week" on AI. They did some nice vocal work and in a couple of cases did some amazing vocal work but I just can't take a steady diet of C&W.
Rock me up man, I need energy in my music.
One thing I *DO* like about Megan...
She is the epitome of what AI is supposed to be about. She has absolutely NO prior training or background. I know this can't be said of Adam, Matt, Allison, Lil, Scott or Danny.... not sure about Anoop, Michael or Kris...
So for that reason alone I might need to re-evaluate how I feel.
Yes, having such a wide range of experience involved makes things hard to judge.
Even the 4 Judges get confused sometimes.
I think, given the ranges involved, that the top 16 contestants should be able to go on tour, rather than just the top 10.
That way, we could have more of the inexperienced kids GET the needed experience to continue as artists.
Maybe, they could call it the 'Idol Legion Tour'!
I you-tubed Adam's RING OF FIRE, a version without the performance and a version with.
I did so because I decided I wasn't sure if I liked it because it was so provocative and decadent, or because if it was in fact actually good.
The answer is: BOTH. He's my pick, even though I think AI folks want Danny to win.
What's Adam going to do with a Motown song? Can't wait to see. I hope it's weird!
Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
Just youtube'd Adam. Found his version of "Come Home" by OneRepublic.
UH - mazing!
I've listened to this an embarrassingly high number of times now. Plus, I've sought out live performances by OneRepublic. I LOVE the song! Addicted.
My most favorites to least favorites:
ADAM.... Can there be any doubt he rules all he surveys? I noticed they RiLLLLLLLy played up the Elvis angle lookswise tonight. Good move, says I!
ALLISON... That *was* blazing hot!
MATT... Though I find his perpetual sneer and his disrespectful "imitation" of Adam (posted at Vote for the worst.com) offputting, there's no denying he IS competition for my gay Elvis.
These were tonight's definite best for me...
The rest:
Anoop... What a hard song to sing. He did well.
Kris... I just wanna pinch his cute little monkey face!
Michael... I liked it better than the judges, but Simon was mean to call him out as fodder for the top 10, though everyone knows that is what he is.
Lil: Ooooooh.... way too screechy.
Danny... I wonder if his ass missed all the kissing?
Megan... What's the deal with her getting the criticism tonight (undeservedly) that she should haveb been getting weeks ago? I thought tonight was her best so far.
Scott... I'm sorry, but... no.
When I heard it was Motown week, I cringed a little. I figured Lil would be happy. I wondered what Adam and Danny would do. The rest didn't even really come to my mind.
My least to moost favorite...
10. Scott. He didn't raise his game, he kept it the same. Congratulations to his fans. I'm not one.
9. Megan. I agree with the judges that this song was too much for her. She looked hot.
8. Michael. Ditto.
7. Kris. He did just fine I guess. I'm just not that into him.
6. Matt. He's really good, just kinda forgettable.
5. Anoop. Nice, but a tad dull.
4. Amanda. I like her musical style. I hate her fashion style.
(Edit: Allison! It can't be a good thing that I got her name wrong!)
3. Lil. She was the diva and did a solid, good job, but I agree with Simon that she hasn't had a "moment" anytime recently.
2. Danny. I'm a fan, and I like his musical style a LOT. This was a tad goofy but fun.
1. Adam. Well, I admit that he's my favorite. It was the PERFECT song choice at the right time and he did an amazing job. He looked like Kurt Russel! Heh!
-heh-
I thought he looked a lot like Dean Caine and the wife looked at me and asked if he was going to do an Elvis song. Interesting, we all saw something slightly different.
I was really disappointed with Megan and she IS my favorite. The song was just wrong, she needs to stay bluesy and sultry that's what makes her so hot.
I actually didn't like Lil tonight. It sounded to me like she was trying to push through the song with brute force and ended up doing more shouting than singing.
I thought Anoop sounded really pretty. I'll bet the "Teen Beat" crowd adores him with those liquid dark eyes. I noticed that he's discovered how to play to the camera and make it look like he's looking at you while he sings-nice trick. I don't think he'll win this season but you just know there's a CD coming out in a month or so.
I'd never have picked Adam at the beginning but now I'm starting to think this is his to lose. He's the strongest performer of this year's group, he has an excellent voice and "knocks it out of the park" show after show.
I have to admit that I love Adam ~ have I done that before?
He's so much fun!
I think his popularity and career are way past teeny boppers and housewives, too.
Unless he somehow self-destructs, not only will he win AI, he'll be a star for the rest of his life.
I still adore Megan. I don't know if she's a recording star or not, but she definitely should go far in the entertainment industry!
Anoop is a sweetie ~ if he doesn't make the big time here, he could be king in Daliwood (India's movie capital.)
But I'd much rather he stayed here.
(He reminds me of one of my teen heartthrobs, from Inda, who did 'Maya' with Jay North and was on the 'Big Valley'.) He was so beautiful! sigh
Kris has really grown on me, as has Matt, although I didn't like him much tonight (Matt, that is, Kris was wonderful.)
I think Lil tried way too hard, but she was certainly lovely tonight AND she impressed Smokey Robinson (which can't hurt her career!)
Speaking of which, I think Danny made a BIG mistake by not following Smokeys advice!
I'm a little PO'd with his ego, especially since I think he was wrong in his decision.
Not good!
Michael was a lot better than the judges said, I think. I liked his song a lot.
Allison still sounds the same every time she sings and Scotty was kind of boring.
Anyway, love the comments here. It's nice to have someone to share the season with!
I find it VERY hard to believe that Matt was in the bottom 3 tonight... but that's just me...
Tonight's exit I'm sure surprised no one, though I *was* surprised that one certain VFTW favorite wasn't there... perhaps they DO have an influence...
I guess he just doesn't look like a cute magazine cover model like most of them do. His performance was solid and he sounded pretty good. He really did set the standard for last night's singers. Too bad there's so much superficiality involved..but that's a rant I don't actually feel like getting into.
I agree though, I didn't think Matt would be at the bottom of the pile this week he sounded pretty decent last night.
It's kind of crazy that Michael sounded so much better tonight doing the same song than he did last night. There's a lesson there that seems to be a hard one for the contestants to learn: every song could be your last one, you have to sell every song, every note, every decision and sell it to millions of people every single time.
If you can't go that big then you're going home.
One other thing, they should all listen to the choreographer more, that's a big stage and just wandering around on it or doing a little booty shaking isn't going to impress people, you have to own it, make it yours and then share it with the audience. That's a lot harder that people think. I can see Adam understands that, when he's onstage it belongs to him.
VFTW? I can't figure that one out.
Originally posted by Yellow Kid:
VFTW? I can't figure that one out.
Ummm, me neither.
LLASH?
I like Michael, but I wasn't surprised that he's out.
He's such a sweetie.
I hope he really works to find HIS style and who he is musically during this next year, as he goes on tour with the group.
I hope Idol helps in that way, coaching him and developing his voice and stage presence and 'look'.
I kind of see him in Country, with his hair a little longer and his look a little more leather (no fringe! just some hand molded leather boots, pants, vest. Something else else elegantly rugged ~ no cowboy stuff, though.)
Anyway,
I agree that a lot of superficial stuff is important in the judging ~ but that's the whole entertainment business.
There's not a place in the business, from working at Disney World to Top Model to a news anchor that isn't built on the superficial standards of today.
If you're in the public eye, you'd better be the standard they're looking for, which is usually not even really human in proportion, features and presence.
I've seen shows revealing how guys on computers alter model photos, elongating limbs, enlarging breasts, changing complexions, eyes ~ everything!
I mean, what was the reaction here when Kel came out and had gained some weight around the tummy?
Our reactions were the way the American public reacts to any perceived imperfection, any standard that the INDUSTRY sets.
End of rant. . .
sigh
I watched 'Smallville' tonight and just caught the last minute of AI.
Who was the other one of the bottom 3?
Who was #1?
Sorry to bother ya'll, who are more faithful.
VFTW is vote for the worst.com, a website dedicated to supporting the AI contestant who, although they might not be the best singer, is the most entertaining in other ways. They are part of my AI watching every year now. A real surly, hilarious bunch who make fun of AI yet you can tell they adore the show really. They have actually broken lots of news there. They despise what they consider "plants", that is people who have already had a measure of success in the music field and don't deserve a shot on AI. "Plants" that they have hated include Joanna Pacitti (who was subsequently ousted from the top 36 and replaced with Felcia Barton because of her ties within the industry) and Carly Smithson from last year. Also former Britney Spears dating feaux rocker Robbie Carrico from a couple years ago. They *really* hate "plants" there!
Last year they supported their papaya Sanjaya and we saw him eliminate several singers who were much better. They were also firmly behind Taylor Hicks.
And this year they are lovng them some Megan. CAW, CAW to save Megan... they are convinced that her "fans" she was referring to Weds. night are them, and they could be right. Having VFTW behind you is not necessarily a bad thing.
Another AI site that's become a part of my AI life is dial idol.com, which uses some sort of system that measures amounts of busy signals to determine who is getting the most and least votes. They are usually dead on, which is why I can't believe Matt was in the bottom 3. Dialidol.com firmly predicted MICHAEL, MEGAN and SCOTT as the lowest votegetters with Kris being just above them. They predicted ADAM # 1 this week, followed by Allison, Danny, Matt and Lil as next highest votegetters.
Last year they accurately predicted David Cook's defeat of David "Gaspy" Archuletta (much to my disbelief but delight after the judges raked Cook over the coals and practcally gave it to Gaspy) so I no longer doubt them.
Matt in bottom 3? Bullcrap done to create drama and buzz for him, likely.
So do check out VFTW, they're pretty funny over there.
Thanks.
I guess I belong there, since Megan is one of my favorites and I LOVED Taylor Hicks (and still do.)
Don't tell anyone, but I listen to his album as often as I listen to Josh Grobins songs ~ even though I consider Josh to have the best human voice in the history of human singing.
Taylor is just fun.
sigh
I also bought the Taylor album (as a present for my Mom, we were fans!) but have never heard it myself. I also bought them Diana DeGarmo's CD (never heard it myself).
I heard enough of Fantasia's debut "Free Yourself" cd that I wanted to get it but never got around to it. I did download a few of the songs.
After hearing Kellie Pickler's first 2 singles (the amusing, catchy "Red High Heels" and the pretty, sad "I Wonder") I bought her "Small Town Girl" cd and LOVED it. Her 2nd cd is alright but not quite as good... but I *never* imagined during her season I'd be buying her stuff at all.
I recieved Blake Lewis' cd as a Christmas gift, it was alright... there is 1 song on there that I really loved called "Hate 2 Love Her".
I've downloaded some Kelly Clarkson, Daughtry, Elliot Yamin, Katharine McPhee, Jennifer Hudson and Jordin Sparks tunes.
My next must-get former Idol cd will be Brooke White's stuff... she has one out now (recorded prior to her AI stint) and one coming soon. LOVE that girl!
Great... I'm a cog in the mighty AI machine...
OK, so remember how I've said I want to make out with Kris and stuff? Except that he is married and stuff?
Wellllllll... perhaps I have a chance after all.... If I cowboy-up some..... I mean, Conway, ARK is NOT that far from Memphis....
(click to enlarge)
Yeah, that's Kris on the far left....
BAH! Stupid computer has eaten my last 2 attempts, so I better make this quick!
My favorites:
ADAM, KRIS and SCOTT.
The rest were fair to middling. No one outright bad.
Onething: Let the fricking judges pick the songs. I'm SOOOOO tired of "it was the wrong song for you".
Absolute ditto!
I liked Megan, too.
I have to agree with Cara about the whole artistry thing. If the singer can perform an excellent rendition of the song - whatever they may do to it - it just creates a moment. So many of these contestants don't seem to know what to do with themselves this year.
My worst to best...
Anoop. What a dumb song choice. It didn't show what he can do, he isn't a dancer/singer like Usher and he looked mad... and sweaty! Didn't like it at all.
Lil. Okay, a big voice, but this song has been done by 6 year old girls who can really impress an audience/judges. Lil brought nothing new to it. She suffers from not knowing who she is as a singer.
Matt. Hmm... ditto that last sentence for him. He needs to figure this out. He's so talented, I think he has too many influences.
Megan. It was a sweet performance, but nothing that stacks up against others in a singing contest. She's so beautiful and interesting.
Allison. Really good. The problem is, that song was so over-played when it was new, it's actually kinda tired. I think we need more time to pass before it becomes novel again. She looked silly.
Scott. Solid. He needs a real haircut.
Kris. A really good version of an overdone song. I was impressed.
Adam. Not what I would ever have guessed he'd do, and I wasn't 100% into it, but it was pretty fun. He's better than the others, IMO.
Danny. These are the kind of moments I love. When I learn a new song that I didn't know, and it's performed really well. He GAVE so much to this.
Well, though tonight's elimination wasn't a surprise, my emotion about it kinda was. I think it was pretty obvious this contestant was ready and expecting to leave tonight. Now I'm not so sure anymore that *I* was ready for it.
Simon can hold a grudge, can't he? I thought his refusing to evaluate the performance for a possible save was tacky. The contestant sure handled it with humour and ultimately dignity by doing an even superior-to-last night's version of the song tonight. That's the way to go out, I think.
I **LOVED** that David Cook song, it was kinda sappy and sweet and he looked so handsome and sang so well.
I have 2 words about Lady Gaga: GREAT SPACE. And now several more words, heh heh... That girl kicks frikkin' ASSSSS! Her "The Fame" album has been on my to-get list for a couple weeks now. It will be MINE come Friday. I love her entire performance art/dance club vibe. I'd pay premium prices to see her in concert. I can't help but feel they brought her on to show what kinda stuff Adam could launch himself into. Gawd, can you imagine if Lady Gaga and Adam Lambert teamed UP?!?! Dear Lord, it might bring about the funkocalypse! They need to team up ASAP.
I should add that I actually enjoyed the group sing of "Don't Stop Believing", it was good.
Yeah, Simon was pretty nasty. I think the audience's silence after his comment spoke volumes.
I'll miss Megan's quirky presense and interesting voice, that's for sure.
In comparison, Allison's voice is one note and Lil is a performance blank.
sigh
I love your idea of Lady Gaga and Adam teaming up.
That WOULD be a fun show, wouldn't it?
I truly think he has no end of possibilities with his acting and singing talents.
It helps that he's adorably handsome, too.
I'd be willing to bet that that group sing number will be a part of their tour this year.
And David Cook was so great!
He's just gotten better and better everytime I've ever seen him.
Amazing!
Aww, I'll miss Megan. Her voice just isn't a fit for AI. I think she could make a cool album.
Kris was the best this week, and I do like Adam, even if "Play that Funky Music" was a weird choice. Lil and Anoop need better song choices...and I still can't stand Danny.
Crumbs.
Megan's kind of let me down the last couple of weeks. I felt she was trying to be too "normal" or something and she'd drifted away from the R&B stylings that made her such an attractive vocalist. When I first heard her I compared her to Rikki Lee Jones. Dynamic and interesting.
I think once they make it to this level of the competition there's still a possibility of getting a music company deal. Perhaps we'll hear Megan on the radio soon doing her own music?
If they have an album from the tour, she'll be on that, at least.
I think Megan has a great future in the theater!
She's beautiful and funky and talented, a regular Bernadette Peters.
If that's what she wants, that is.
Oooooh, I can't *wait* to buy Adam and Allison's cds.....
Overall, this was a pretty good show!
My least to most favorites...
8. Scott. I've rarely been impressed. His choices are generally too cheesy and his vocals border on sketchy (!) sometimes.
7. Lil. I totally agree with the judges about her. She just seems like back-up singer material, not the star.
6. Anoop. He did a nice job on a song I like quite a lot.
5. Kris. I think the judges were too hard on him for the arrangement. I thought it worked.
4. Alison. She did a great job on a song I like quite a bit.
3. Danny. Great job with a classic song, maybe a bit over-done.
2. Matt. He's dumb if he doesn't keep doing the blue-eyed soul stuff. He was great.
1. Adam. I totally look forward to what he'll do each week. This song was beautiful, and though it's familiar to me, I'm not sure if I know it and I definitely don't know who did it originally. So, as I often say, this is the type of moment I love about this show. Thanks Adam!
I just did a search on youtube for Mad World. Evidently tons of other AI fans did the same. All the versions of it I found (by Tears for Fears and by Gary Jules [whoever that is] had comments about Adam. Now I need to figure out who Gary Jules is.
Adam gave me chills with his performance!
Just incredible ~ standing ovation is right!
And for the first time, I truly enjoyed Allison!
Kris was okay, although I couldn't remember his song right after he sang it.
I like Scott.
AI is working on his image and he looks good.
Is there a niche for a new Barry Mannilo(sp) type?
Anoop has a pretty voice and a cute face, the teeny's should love him.
I loved his song choice.
I was kind of embarrassed by Matt's performance, but I never enjoyed Sinatra, either.
I agree, Lil was back-up.
I kmow I should like Danny, but I don't.
His voice is like chalk scraping on the ol' board and he's so puffed up.
Every year I find that so many of the AI songs sound alike.
Does someone on the show do the arranging?
I know that Adam, and last year's David Cook, found most of their own arrangements, whicn I vastly prefer.
Adams 'Ring of Fire' was stunning and so was his 'Mad World' tonight (is that a movie soundtrack song?).
Adam's poor dad.
He wanted a jock and he got a ham.
He should be thankful, both types are performers!
And Adam's going to be a Michael Jordan!
'Mad World' is (I think) on the 'Donnie Darko' soundtrack.
Did anyone else notice the editing job on the montage of songs at the end?
I missed almost the entire show but I did manage to catch Adam's song. Beautiful work...but he *blew* the very last note. I remember thinking how pretty it was that he was working up the scale to the big finish and then cringed when the high note was off.
In the video montage, at the end when Ryan's hustling votes, the recording playback had been slightly sound adjusted so that Adam knocked it's socks off.
I didn't record it and I can't prove it but I swear I heard it happen that way.
-disclaimer:
I'm NOT making any kind of accusation here, just an observation...and I could be wrong but I don't think so.
re: "Mad World"... The version Adam did was based on the version done on the DONNIE DARKO soundtrack. The song was originally released by TEARS FOR FEARS in 1982.
(typing as it plays, no names mentioned but semispoilers abound)
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Oooh, Kylie's "CAN'T GET YOU OUT OF MY HEAD" as butchered by the Final 8... yikes! Though I know Adam had fun, heh!
Flo Rida? More like Dead or Alive steala! Fun song, I guess, though. He's rather hot....
The bottom 3? No big surprise.
PICKLES!!! Not my fave off her second album, but she still kix ass! Soooo kyoot! Simon was fighting the urge to goose her!
The bottom 2-- still no surprise. What WILL surprise me is if he goes home, and he doesn't!
The bottom votegetter-- no surprise. I *am* surprised that there is an apparent judges split. To no avail, though, as Simon makes the final decision...
Sorta too bad, though... I will miss seeing his <span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">SUPERHOT brother in the audience!</span></span>
My wife and I both have Donnie Darko on our "don't forget to rent it" list and we always forget to rent it.
Scott seems like a really nice guy. I feel bad sorta whining about his performances, but I've always respected his ilk (heh!).
It's all cool.
Unless somebody really screws up, Anoop and Lil are probably the next in line to leave.
Which I agree with.
I think.
:conf;used:
What's Donnie Darko?
Sorry.
Odd show. I think my typical order of least favorite to most will be all mixed up.
7. Matt. I really like him, but I just found it a touch ... desperate.
6. Danny. I wasn't 100% sure it was working.
5. Lil. I thought it was going to get all gospel-y and it only kinda got gospel-y.
4. Kris. I wasn't 100% sure it was working - but I love that song and movie.
3. Alison. Rock solid.
2. Adam. SO entertaining! What a range he has!
1. Anoop. Controlled, interesting, entertaining.
I slept through the beginning!
But on the replay:
1. Adam ~ I just love this crazy kid.
2. Kris ~ I really enjoyed him, even if the judges didn't.
3. Anoop ~ his voice is just so beautiful and he's so improved in his stage presence.
4. Matt ~ not stellar last night but I still prefer him to the girls. (Even though he had some real problems hitting his notes, last night.)
5. Alison ~ she rocks but I hate that when she does, she has no real variation in her notes, if that makes sense.
6. Lil ~ 'The Rose' is one of my favorite songs.
I wanted to hear her full gospel version! And she has a tendency to go flat when she sings slower music, like the beginning and ending of that song.
AND THE SAVE HAS BEEN USED!!!!!
I'll agree that it might as well have been used on this contestant, especially since there appears to be little chance of my fave performer being in jeopardy before top 5.
Next week: DISCO! That should be fun for Adam and, therefore, me!
Last night I missed Kris and Danny due to life-glitches.
LOVED Adam as usual and agreed that Simon's "Rocky Horror" comment was a compliment!
I agree with Sketchy & Shady that I would have enjoyed seeing Lil do a full-on gospel version of THE ROSE. As it was it was just so-so.
I didn't like ALLSION as much as usual.
The rest: Dull and too much "falshitto" as VFTW calls it...
At least the show had a happy ending last night, sort of.
Darn it, Simon!
I hated Matt's solo song, but thought he was amazing during the opening group number.
And I have to say that I agreed with Tarantino's comment to Danny that he needs to stop using his hands the way he does during his solos.
They're really distracting and annoying.
2 gone next week.
Maybe, I'll have to start voting again.
OMG... the Idol tour comes here in July... I've gotta go on the off-chance that I might meet Adam and make him fall in love with me! He's a drama geek... I wonder if he's into comics...?
Originally posted by MLLASH:
I've gotta go on the off-chance that I might meet Adam and make him fall in love with me!
YOU sing and perform too, don't you?
You might be too much competition for him to take!
I'd like to see him when the group come to Portland, but not for the same reasons, of course!
I don't feel particularly enthused by the show. It's not that I hate disco or anything, it's just that those songs have been so over-done.
Lil, Danny and Matt did all give karaoke performances, even if they had little touches of update.
Kris and Alison did interesting arrangements and were strong.
Adam was awesome.
Yeah, Adam had the same effect on me that he did on Paula.
He actually made me cry.
I don't really understand why.
He's just a phenom.
I voted 10 times for him.
And 10 times for Kris.
I absolutely loved his arrangement.
He's not Adam, but who is?
And I voted 10 times for Anoop.
He's just come so far.
His voice is beautiful and his last two performances have shown how much he's matured.
I hate Matt's hat.
Danny annoys me ~ he's not coachable, even by great talents like Tarantino and Smokey Robinson.
Allison almost always sounds exactly the same, regardless of the topic song.
And Lil is flat, flat, flat.
Adam is so awesome.
(How come he has such fantastic arrangements everytime?)
My top 3 were Adam, Kris & Allison.
4th place would likely be Anoop.
The rest can go bye-bye now for all I care.
I think tonight's results and both boots off were not unexpected, although I thought one of them might have gone at least 1-2 weeks earlier than they should have coming off the heels of a very good performance last night.
Little Archuletta was really good, I liked his song! I have, in fact, enjoyed ALL of the former contestants' return performances this season. Very good, Idol!
I enjoyed Paula's choerography segment too. She really hasn't been worthless ballast this year, has she? I think the addition of Kara has really convinced her to step up this season.
I kinda felt a little bad for the 70s singers... Thelma Houston can still tear it up though. KC sounded like himself, still. I dunno, I was glad they all got a chance to perform again.
Wow, everyone that's left is really good. It took me a long time to start enjoying Kris, but I do now. I've always liked Danny and Matt and Alison, though Matt really needs to take care with his song choices. Adam's my favorite by far. I don't miss anyone who's gone on a singing level, and I don't think I'll really miss Lil or Anoop that much.
I'll have to go back and re-read my reviews of Archeletta. I'm just not that into him.
The old people singers were cute as a novelty.
sigh
I knew Anoop was a long shot . . .
I enjoyed David and his song, it seemed to be pretty original and even memorable.
His voice is so lovely and he's such a sweetie.
I thought his encouragement was spot on, too.
I didn't really 'do' the disco era ~ into Christian music and stuff, still am.
Although I remember the BeeGees, Donna Summer and Dance Fever.
I was kind of hoping to see John Travolta tonight.
I just knew that Adam would pick a song from that movie, I just wasn't expecting the one he chose!
About the others ~
Danny should never wear glasses and Matt should never wear a hat.
Allison needs her hair cut into a Tinkerbell shape.
And I hope Simon doesn't leave the show.
He's harsh sometimes, but usually realistic and funny.
Well, here's to next week!
Cheers1
OK, if my sources are correct, next week is supposed to be jazz standards/Rat Pack week... IF this is true, how does this showcase any kind of modern, current style? NOT that I am criticising those classic songs, but, you know.
IT IS TIME TO DITCH THE THEME WEEKS. Especially since it's so easy to make any theme fit your style, ever since the genius of Chris Daughtry was on display a couple years ago.
I can see "Rat Pack" week being very good to pouty-faced Matt. And to a lesser extent, Adam (because this guy can do ANYthing) and Kris and Danny. I see it DESTROYING Allison.
DITCH THE THEMES, AI! I hope my info is wrong. Let the Idols in the future live and die by songs of THEIR choice in genres of THEIR choice in styles of THEIR choice.
Anyway, rant over.
Sketchy, I remember I wasn't Archuletta's biggest fan and was rooting for Cook all last year... and I liked both of their performances this season. If I had the cash to burn, I'd go out right now and buy Melinda, Brooke, both David's and Jennifer Hudson's cds. As my funds don't allow that, I am currently planning to buy J-Hud's CD come payday (I *loved* her last week!! She's precious, and I've always had a crush on her).
This was a good night! I like everybody that's left and I like the Rat Pack, generally speaking.
My least favorite to most favorite....
5. Matt. I wasn't wowed. I remember Melinda and Constantine both did this song better.
4. Kris. He did a fine job, but even though I like him more now than I used to, I still find him kinda dull.
3. Alison. I thought she did a great job of staying herself with a classic song. She looked great.
2. Adam. He was a superstar, no question about it. His talent and showmanship are undeniable.
1. Danny. I just love this song! Danny's vocals with this arrangement totally excited me. I loved it.
I think I agree with Lash. The themes aren't working for me.
I always disliked Disco so last week didn't thrill me and I never got into the 40's/50's lounge lizard style of music so this week didn't do it for me either.
Unfortunately I've hit that part of AI where none of the peeps I was behind early on are still around and I don't have that much invested in the remaining contestants. I actually had a mini debate with myself whether to watch Idol or a two-part Enterprise rerun on Sci-Fi.
I enjoyed everyone equally with the exception of Matt. Time for him to go. He came nowhere close to Constantine or Melinda's versions.
I'm thinking we should prepare for a Danny/Adam showdown finale.
I agree ~ it's probably going to be Adam and Danny.
I only voted for Adam this time.
I just decided I didn't really care about who else stayed or went.
Kris is a sweetie, though.
I Loved the guest mentor, Jamie Fox.
I missed whatever Taylor Hicks did that Ryan thanked him for at the end,
.
Well, LLASH should know who leaves pretty soon!
I got a couple of hours.
sigh
Well maybe a Danny v. Adam finale is NOT a gaurantee, judging from tonight's (to me) surprising bottom 3 results...........
Weird that Adam was in the bottom 2, but not weird that Matt was out.
Yes, we almost lost Adam! How is that possible?!
Stupid show . . .
However, I loved Taylor Hicks and his number.
He was trying so hard to prove he was a good winner.
He's doing pretty good with a new album out, working on Broadway in Grease and he's looking fantastic.
I wish I knew how to keep Adam there until the end.
sigh
Tonight I liked, in order from fave to least fave:
Adam & Allison's duet, "Slow Ride".
Allison's solo, "Cry Baby".
Kris' Beatles solo.
Adam's LedZep solo.
Kris & Danny's duet.
Danny's solo. I felt like he was stealing Adam's "shtick" for lack of a better word.
I voted 5 times for Adam, 4 times for Allison and 1 time for Kris. Danny can go suck eggs.
I love some rock, so I knew this would be an interesting show. Overall, I thought it was pretty good.
My least to most favorite...
Danny solo. He screeched that last note. I'm a fan, but he should have tried something else.
Danny & Kris duet. Yes, the harmonies worked, but the whole rest of it was odd. I never liked that song anyway.
Kris solo. The judges were too hard on him, IMO. It wasn't *that* bad. It was pretty good.
Allison solo. I liked it. It really worked for her.
Adam solo. Perfect choice! It was cool!
Allison & Adam duet. So fun and thrilling! I loved it.
Yeah, Danny was pretty bad.
I was glad that Simon actually had the guts to say how bad that last note was but Danny was off on a lot of the notes.
Kris was really fresh and fun on the Beatles song.
Is he the only one to play an instrument? He looked very natural with the guitar.
I especially liked the A&A duet.
I only voted for Adam 'cause last week really scared me!
CHOKE!!! Tonight's exit really hurt!
I expected Kris to be out, and then for Allison to take third with Danny and Adam in the finale. I'm always really bad at predictions, though. I think way back in the beginning of the season, I predicted a pretty girl would win. Uh.... no.
Just so it wasn't Adam leaving, I'm happy.
I was glad Kris stayed.
I'm pretty sure the other 3 will get album deals, whether they win or not, so having him stay is a good thing for his future.
I missed the first half of the show while talking with a son who's visiting from Guam.
We watched the last half of the show together, and we both thought that Daughtry's new song was kind of boring.
I liked Taylor's single from last week much better.
I was sorry to miss Paula's number.
Well that was as good a final 3 as I've seen since I started watching back in season 3. No real deal-breaking moments if you don't count the fact that Danny just causes me to dislike him with no explainable reason.
So far I've only been able to get in 1 vote for Adam. I'm intending to do some more, and to also vote for Kris a couple times.
I actually agreed with Randy's comment about Adam's performance of "One" I thought it veered too far from the original melody. But when I listened to it again, I was okay with that. I guess the newness threw me off. Adam's version of "Cryin'" was spectacular. I hope he's in the finale next week and I hope he wins.
Kris did a great job with both of his songs. In fact, I was quite impressed with his Kanye West song.
I wasn't so impressed with Danny tonight. I love Terence Trent D'Arby, but I agree with Simon about how there are so many other better songs. Danny should not dance. He looks way too goofy. He did a good job with YASB, but that song is too simple. There are so many songs with more meat to them that Danny could have done.
Lash, I think Danny tends to be too wordy when he speaks. That annoys me too. The thing is, I like his music better than Kris' over all, so I hope it's Danny vs. Adam next week.
Besides his whiny voice, I don't like the sympathy mileage that he got in the beginning,using his wife's death.
And his attitude towards the mentors suggestions.
Anyway, his second song was lovely, if simple.
I REALLY enjoyed Kris tonight!
Especially the song he picked out himself.
I love it when he plays and sings!
Simon's pick for Adam was the only one of the judge's songs that I liked.
As always, Adam was wonderful!
I started voting early, during the show, and it worked! I voted a lot before the busy signals started.
Like LLASH, I voted mostly for Adam and some for Kris.
I can't wait for tomorrow!
fave moment: Danny complains he wants it to be over, then Adam says he wants to see Katy Perry!
Then... she walks out with ADAM LAMBERT emblazened upon her cape! AWESOME!
Danny sucks!
Jordin's song was catchy!
Now... WHO WILL IT BE?!?!?!
OH GREAT SPACE!!!!!
<span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">I cannot be happier with these results!!!!!! DANNY is OUT OF THE FINALE!!!!</span></span>
88 million votes? Wow. Just wow.
Good for our two finalists. I personally think they were the best choices if Allison could not be there.
As for why I think they were the best choices...
<span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">Both were, to me, tops at interpreting songs in a new way. And that seems to be what was giving the judges woodies this year.... FAMILIAR!!!! Yet... DIFFERENT! These 2 excelled at it. Based on vocals only I'd say it should have been Adam vs. Allison, which I would have probably preferred. Still, it's kinda kewl that Kris came out of NOWHERE into the top 13. I mean, he had NO BACKSTORY at ALL or pimp-time during audition rounds or Hollywood week. I wouldn't be surprised if he actually beats Adam. He is the epitome of 'American Idol' as far as watching a talented underdog rise from 'nothing' to stardom. Plus that groovy all-American wholesome demeanor. He might take it all. Adam will be OK either way.</span></span>
I'm glad Kris made it to the final because the top 2 get album deals for sure.
88 million votes!
People REAlly wanted to get their favorites in the final 2.
I know I must have voted a million times, myself!
Just kidding.
geez
Danny will do great on his own, just like Allison will. I'm sure they'll both make lots of deals and albums and money.
I'm surprisd to find that I'll actually kind of miss Danny.
His last song was very moving for me.
Adam's in the final.
Whew!
I'm dancing a jig!
I wish we'd gotten to see him with his family, even a little.
(Granted, Kris and his dad would have been a tough act to follow.)
But he was great with the kids from his theater group.
He just has so much charm.
Speaking of charm, I loved the boy from Africa, was Noah his name?
What a little darlin' he was.
sigh
I wasn't home tonight, but I recorded it on tivo. I watched some of it, but then skipped to the end.
I'm not really surprised that Danny was out even though I prefer him to Kris.
As usual, I hope Adam and Kris both sing the same song in the finale. I prefer when they do that.
Funny, it was Top Model finale night. I realized that my 3 most favorite shows - AI, Top Model and Project Runway - are very much like a Legion tryout issue - contestants showing their gifts in front of a panel of judges. Heh!
Add Top Chef to that list!
It's funny how long the 'tryouts' are for those shows, though.
The initial phase is short, but that's just the beginning.
The Legion should go through at least that long of a process ~ a year, say, since the consequences are life and death.
You make an esxcellent point, Shady...
now I'm wanting to see something like reader-style election votes for new Legionnaires...
Intro 4-8 new characters as 'potentials', have them rotate appearances for 12 months within the storylines and tally reader votes as they are mailed in.
Is this show still on the air? Wow.
I love my 'puter. I haven't watched regular tv in over a year now.
Er, wasn't sure if you guys would mind if I posted this here, but I just saw 'Rock of Ages' on Broadway last night starring Constantine from Idol a few years ago. Its the 2nd time I've seen him on Broadway. He actually is pretty damn rocking in person, and he's definitely got that Broadway quality about him. FYI, Rock of Ages is non-stop 80's hair metal music with an awesomely fun story around it--perfect for Constantine I think (I don't watch Idol but it seems that way).
Constantine portrayed himself as a rocker on Idol, but every now and then he'd let his musical theater background show. It seems like he's found the perfect venue!
You, and anything you have to say, are always welcome on any thread, CK!
It's good to know what happened to Constantine.
I was just wondering about him.
I'd love to see 'Grease' on Broadway, too, since it has Taylor Hicks starring in it.
I wonder if that's where Adam will go next?
C'Tine was actually just nominated for a TONY AWARD for his role in 'Rock of Ages'. (my source: Entertainment Weekly magazine) The first Idol alum to achieve this.
I can easily see Kris taking this all the way.
That said, I voted 12 times for Adam and will try to throw in a few more.
DIALIDOL.COM currently has Kris ahead by a slight margin.
I only watched the final- I kind of wish they could tie. They're both listenable in very different ways. Adam seems like he can sing a wider variety of music. Kris seems more limited- but very good within that.
I liked both of their first songs the best for each of them, and liked Adam's 'producer round' song quite a bit better than Kris's. It seemed like he was actually singing *about* something. I don't think the third song really suited either of them.
Did anyone watch the show that came after? GLEE? I think I have a new favorite. It hooked me when the hunky football guy pulled the guy in the wheelchair out of the port-a-potties, preventing his football buddies from tormenting him. That and Jane Lynch as a tightly wound cheerleading coach. And the clip where the teacher's wife said 'Did it fall out?' when told she wasn't pregnant.
Not looking at other posts....
I thought both guys did a good job on their repeat songs. I prefer Adam's song, but I prefer his original performance.
Adam KILLED Kris on the second round. Wow, Adam got all Patty LaBelle on it, and it was amazing. Kris was way too mellow with his song.
GAH! Kara's song was TERRIBLE. Even as Adam sang it, I was grossing out and excusing him. When Kris sang it, I was grossing out at the song and his performance. I wonder if Kara feels bad that the song was not good for either of them. Also, I bet it would be good for Danny!
Totally sticking by my early favorite, Adam! I'm going to a friend's house tomorrow night to watch the finale. Should be fun.
I love both young men, but I'm sticking by Adam for the win ~ he's just the best.
Kara should be ashamed of that song.
But in the couple of years that I've watched Idol, none of the ending songs have been very good.
sigh
I voted until my phone died.
(Stupid phone!)
And yes, I really enjoyed 'Glee'.
Darn, I really didn't want to get hooked on a new show for the summer!
<span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">America hates gays. Just kiddin'.
America likes underdogs and I was totally expecting Kris Allen to win. Good for him. Now Adam can finish the summer tour and go straight (no pun intended!) to Broadway, which I think he probably would rather do anyway... AFTER recording a cd of duets with Allsion, of course.
I can't be mad about Kris winning because the kid IS talented and IS sweet and IS humble. He himself said he felt Adam deserved the win, after he won. Who can be upset about that?
Tonight's finale was quite the spectacle, wasn't it? KISS? Hello, that kicked ass.
Best surprise: I was delighted by the Michael Sarver/Megan Joy duet, the bluegrassy number that Steve Martin played banjo on. Loved it!
I think Adam has raised the bar for AI. Next year should be interesting.
</span></span>
And you got to hear him sing with Queen!!!
I'm just in awe of this finale.
The duets were amazing and wonderful!
Prince and Josh Groban weren't there, but the 13 were!
Adam held his own with Kiss and Queen and I WILL buy his album.
I hope he does much more than Broadway.
I want to see him, a lot, and I never will if Broadway is all that he does.
I want him in movies and on TV and every other type of media possible.
sigh
I love Kris, too, darn it, so I can't be sad.
His songs were fantastic, loved his duet with the other guitar player. They should do that song together on Kris' album.
It's just that no one is as good as Adam.
What a fun show!
I loved all of the matchups.
Allison and Cindy jammed it!
I agree that the Megan/MIchael song with Steve was one of the top 5 highlights of the show, and that's saying something!
Martin got a yelp of laughter out of me, too.
A long shot, indeed.
Well, I'm upset that Adam didn't win! I preferred him by far.
And I liked Gokey better than Kris. And Allison. And Matt. I even liked Michael better. What do I know?
Oh well, I know Adam'll be fine.
The finale was quite a good show. My friend and I had a good night.
Still can't believe it...
...but, I'm actually glad to not be in front of the tv as much!
Adam's and Kris' new CDs are out!
I haven't heard either but the covers are what you'd expect ~ Kris' is nice.
Adam's is hilarious and rather retro.
It reminds me of the Rolling Stone era of dressing like women.
I'd love to see him on Glee!
Adam has been approached to appear on GLEE!!!!
Hurray!
I hope he does! I LOVE that show!
Well it took me about 6 months after its release, but true to my word I got Season 7 finalist BROOKE WHITE's cd "High Hopes & Heartbreak" with my Christmas cash.
And I'm very glad I did!
The songs have been catchy from the first listen.
There's mellow uptempo feel-goodies like "Radio Radio". There's mellow ballads like "Hold Up My Heart". I could picture "California Song" being a track playing on one of the old SCOOBY DOO episodes while the gang is running from the bad guy (a big compliment, in case you aren't sure).
The album closes with "Be Careful", a song so sweet it brought a tear to my eye. That's something usually only Lucinda Williams can do. I would list Brooke alongside Lucinda as a performer whose songs touch my heart.
The songs are soothing and fun. If I'm not mistaken, Brooke cowrote all but one of them.
Her voice is lovely. This one's a keeper.
As far as album sales of last season's guys, Adam's cd is close to 500,000 while Kris' which was released earlier has sold less than 300,000. Fairly disappointing for both, I think.
No one can stop the Susan Boyle debut "I Dreamed A Dream", which has sold almost 3 MILLION copies in the USA alone in 5 weeks.
This season I'll be having Idol nights over at my friend's house. Should be fun.
Lash, thanks for the review of Brooke's cd. I've drastically cut my music purchasing budget, but at least I can keep that in mind.
My pleasure, Sketchy. I'm still really into the cd. Much of it I'd file under "Me and You and a Dog Named Boo" 70s-ish feelgood stuff, which I of course love, with lots of beautiful piano and ballads too. But tonight I payed close attention to "Little Bird" and was amazed at how much it sounded like a 90s Natalie Merchant song (another big compliment FYI!).
Has anyone been following the career of Season 5 alumna Katharine McPhee?
Her second album, "Unbroken", came out this week. On first listen, nothing really stands out. It's like a whole album's worth of her self-titled first album's weakest track/biggest hit "Over It." Maybe it'll improve over subsequent listens.
I love Katharine's first album. It seems to have been recorded with the plan of making her the white Beyonce, only for the label to change their mind at the last minute and release the blandest, un-funkiest track, "Over It", as the lead single.
I'm still glad I bought her new album, though, because her career depends on the support of her fanbase, and I'm confident that future recordings will find her back on track.
Of course, it would help if more people bought the first album, which really is a treasure awaiting discovery, and maybe then she'll see that it's the right direction she should have stayed on.
I didn't buy the cd, but I actually liked "Over It" and played it on the jukebox regularly at the time... How do you like Kat's new look???
Not crazy about Kat's new look. I loved her long dark hair.
Hope you give the album a try. "Open Toes" should have been the lead single. Only a meanie wouldn't love that song.
I'll check it out, the cd is on the juke at my favorite girl bar.
Wonderful. Looking forward to finding out what you think.
To those here who are hardcore Idol buffs: those singers whose auditions are shown before the season in the commercials--do those usually turn out to be talents who go deep into the latter stages of the competition? You know what I mean, right? There are bits featuring total flops and bits typically getting enthusiastic feedback from Simon. Of the latter kind did David Cook, Carrie Underwood and some of the other major players ever turn out to have been some of those that were featured in those earliest commercials?
Also, any trepidations about Ellen Degeneres taking Paula's place and, looking further ahead, the rampant rumors that Simon may depart after this season? Would you watch Idol without Simon Cowell?
I simply don't recall if any finalists have been shown in pre-season commercials. I watch the early episodes every season, but I'm not as into them as the true competition episodes.
As for Paula, I was very disappointed when I heard that she would not be back. However, when I heard that it was Ellen stepping in, I was intrigued. I'm quite looking forward to seeing her on the show. I like her. I figure Kara and Randy can critique the true musical and vocal talent. Ellen will just be fun and probably Mom-like or Auntie-like. We'll see. Simon will be Simon.
If Simon were to leave, I'd still watch. I'm sure I'll watch til the show dies.
I will follow Simon to X-FACTOR if the rumours are true.
IDOL would have to recruit someone really cool-- my favorite choice being BEN FOLDS from the recent acapella groups competition. Now THAT guy is COOL.
I'm going to miss Paula a LOT.
If Simon leaves, I won't stop watching. Meanies are a dime-a-dozen and the show is supposed to be about uncovering geniuine talent, something which it has succeeded at and will continue to do no matter who's judging.
I've been typing in random thoughts as the show unfolds.
Victoria Beckham looks lovely.
Lesson # 1:
Jumping up and down too much can leave you out of breath.
Lesson # 2:
Get up to date on who the judges are!
"Hallelujah" is becoming a bit over-familiar, but Maddie wasn't bad. The judges liked her a little better than I did.
Simon never had any friends as a kid! Surprised?
The three girls we saw briefly who got the okay didn't wow me, but they were good.
Amadeo has a good voice but he's so...erm...intense.
Derek Duck? Shame he was so bad, he's cute.
Oh, god, another bad Janis Joplin wannabe.
Luke -- generic growl.
Benjamin -- sweet voice.
Oh, god, another untalented creepy guy with a chip on his shoulder.
Screaming guys were hilarious.
Ashley -- generic warble.
Tyler -- doesn't do anything for me.
Lisa -- shame she couldn't sing, because she had looks and charisma.
Mike -- not bad, shows promise.
Katie -- adorable, potentially explosive voice.
Joshua -- cute but limited voice.
Justin -- pleasant enough.
Bosa -- diamond in the rough.
Leah -- WOW! She's got "it", that's for sure. But I'm concerned she might be too fragile for showbiz.
Oh, and Simon announced earlier today that he's definitely leaving after this season. Ho-hum.
I'm not a regular watcher, but I can't imagine Idol without Simon Cowell. It's not about him being a meanie, per se, it's that he's the only one who really tells it like it is! The others just sugarcoat too much.
Who out there do you guys think will be able to fill that void?
I disagree. Sure, at the very beginning he was brutally honest, but then he quickly became aware of his honesty's effect on American people and it curdled into calculated schtick. Not to say that Paula and Randy were innocent of falling into the same trap. Kara hasn't fallen into it yet, and she probably won't because the show probably won't last much longer without Simon.
Running commentary again:
That picture of Ryan Seacrest as a kid was creepy.
Dewone -- squeak, squeak, rumble, squeak
More squeaking from nameless guy.
Keia -- NOOOOOO! Not the Titanic song! And that "award-winning" personality is a little too cutesy/quirky for me.
Just like last night, three girls seen briefly are all good and all Hollywood bound.
Jermaine -- What a set of church-trained pipes! And he actually made me like that Joan Osborne song!!
Christy Marie -- Obnoxious!!
Vanessa -- Diamond in the rough; I do like country.
Dear God, this whole thing with the accident-prone country boy is excruciating. Note to AI producers -- no one's above making fun of, but this is just cruel. What a waste of time and videotape.
Holly the Guitar Girl -- ...and she can sing!
Mallorie -- "Piece of My Heart" AGAIN, but at least it's more like the Faith Hill version than the Janis Joplin version; not bad at all.
Skii Bo Ski -- the second weirdo with actual talent of the night...he is annoying when he's not singing, though.
BFFs -- Get O-F-F! I can't believe one of them actually got through!
Bryan the Cop -- I don't get it.
Lamar -- untalented, rude, and more than a bit thick; he wishes Paula was there -- HA! Even she wouldn't have anything good to say to him. Good riddance!
General Larry -- Not funny.
And, finally, no offense to Mary J. Blige fans, but I've never liked her and I like her even less now; I thought she had a horrible attitude.
Lookin' like a fool with your pants on the ground!
I have a crush on Mallorie. I want to ask her out for ice cream sodas.
AAAAARGH! And I had just gotten it out of my head! Am I the only one who think it's not funny?
Can't dance at all with your pants on the ground! Tee hee!
I agree, Lash, Mallorie is adorable.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Can't dance at all with your pants on the ground! Tee hee!
Well, duh! HA HA!
I can tell you're gonna be a GREAT addition to our annual AI discussions, Deirdre! YAY!!!! Glad you're here!
Heh-- next year when X-FACTOR launches with Simon as a judge, he should recruit Paula to join him! Hee hee!
Originally posted by MLLASH:
I can tell you're gonna be a GREAT addition to our annual AI discussions, Deirdre! YAY!!!! Glad you're here! Awww. Thanks, Lash.
Have you had a chance to listen to Kat's first album yet?
I haven't! I was at the girl bar last night but there was a dj. I'll do some looking around on Youtube.
I watched on Tuesday but only half of the show on Wednesday. As usual, I don't really enjoy the audition rounds, but it's great that Idol's back.
I missed Pants on the Ground Guy!!!!!
Pants on the Ground
I liked
Pants on the Ground and well, the General, in general.
I won't buy the single, though.
I'm in awe of Deirdre.
I only saw Wednesday's show and I don't remember any of their names.
I hope you're taking notes girl, because if you just remember all that stuff you're going to put me in a deep funk.
sigh
(I'm glad you're here, though, either way!
)
My favorite Idolers are Taylor Hicks, the 2 Davids and Adam Lambert. And Pickler but I only have Taylor's albums.
I know, sad, but I adore him.
I don't miss Paula, even though I don't like the gal that joined last year, forget her name.
Ellen should be so much fun!
I am waiting patiently for her to join the cast.
I'd miss Simon terribly, I'm afraid.
He and Ryan are my favorites.
But, I'm not really a super Idol fan.
Hicks and Lambert drew me in from the beginning but all of the other seasons have been hit or miss.
Originally posted by Candle:
I'm in awe of Deirdre.
I only saw Wednesday's show and I don't remember any of their names.
I hope you're taking notes girl, because if you just remember all that stuff you're going to put me in a deep funk.
sigh
(I'm glad you're here, though, either way! )
Thanks, Shady.
I'm lucky to have the TV just a few feet away from the computer, so I can type in the names right away before I forget them.
Tonight's guest judge is Shania Twain -- yuck.
Caitlin - generic Big Voice.
Amy - too nasal.
Charity - cute and talented.
Angela - not my cup of tea.
Curley - squeak, squeak
Alannah - squeak, squeak, squeak
Brian - and more squeaking
Harold - ...
Chantelle - ...
John - finally, someone else I like; a sturdy baritone.
God, Shania is annoying.
Paige - show-offy
Simon echoed my thoughts!
Justin - why do my ears hurt so bad?
Keith - screechy
Marcus - potential
This episode was, bar the few bright spots, pure torture to watch!
Hopefully tomorrow's will be better.
John was cute-- Shania was silly twirling that peice of her shirt. I think she did have the hots for him!
This was probably my least favorite audition episode on record...
WHOA!! I just read a horrific spoiler on Vote For The Worst about Angela (the girl who made it through for the third time in tonight's episode, after dropping out/being ousted in previous Hollywood rounds due to runs of bad luck that include her father's death and having to report for a traffic court date)---
<span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">Apparently during Hollywood or before Hollywood, her mother went missing! Still no updates on her whereabouts. </span></span>
How awful! Poor Angela.
Shania already had a lot of bad karma to pay even before her appearance on AI. One thing I didn't catch -- was it Shania or Kara who lamely quipped "Yum!" when Caitlin said she was going to sing Duffy's "Syrup and Honey"? I hope it was Shania, because that's gonna add to her bad karma.
There was nothing particularly fun or funny this time.
Why does Shania have such bad karma, Deirdre? I thought she was silly, but seemed to be having a good time.
I don't know anything about Shania's personal life so I just chalked up her behavior to being nervous and feeling a little out of place on the judges panel.
I saw the second day in Chicago (the last 1/2 hour) and like last Wednesday's showing, I agree that it was pretty bad, and very sad.
How can people not know how bad they are?
My church 'choir' (we don't even go by that name)is mediocre, at best and even when really blessed.
Then, there are the ones who's friends tell them they're bad and they ignore them.
And the ones who think that trash talking and blustering will somehow make up for no training or talent.
sigh
Tonight, I really felt bad for the girl with asthma.
She was using her inhaler after she got her gold card, for goodness sake.
How can she think her circulatory system can stand up to a life of personal appearances, jet lag, smokey clubs and constant singing?
I missed last Tuesday and only saw half of tonight's show, and I am totally unimpressed so far.
Maybe, Florida will have some light at the end of the tunnel.
Ya think?
Re: Shania Twain, I don't know anything about her personal life either, but I do have an image of it in my mind, and it's so ugly that it's better I skip the details and leave it at that.
Even though I dislike her intensely, I was half-kidding about the bad karma. I just think something's gotta come around after all of the excruciatingly bland songs with obnoxious music videos she's given us.
What puts its in a nutshell, I think, was her comment last night about peeing herself during an audition when she was younger. That's way too much information, and it shows she has no class.
Thanks for that response, Deirdre. I was wondering after your post, if Shania did something really nasty that I hadn't heard about. My guess was that she had affairs or something and that was what broke up her (Still the One?) marriage.
You're welcome, Sketchy. I seem to recall some news headline about her ex-husband having an affair, but I wouldn't be surprised if she'd been unfaithful as well, especially after the way she was drooling and dropping innuendoes last night.
I won't be able to watch AI tonight, but I'm going to tape it and watch it tomorrow night.
Merde!!! VFTW has a spoiler list of the top 24 and I'm disappointed....
<span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">Mallorie isn't on it! She's my biggest crush so far. *weary sigh!!*</span></span>
Well, I suppose SOMEone else will tickle my fancy this year....
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Heh-- next year when X-FACTOR launches with Simon as a judge, he should recruit Paula to join him! Hee hee!
Rumour is this is a BIG possibility!!
What station will X-FACTOR be on and when?
(Don't they have copyright issues with Marvel/Disney using that name?)
And how do I get to the list of 24?
Darn you LASHTOT! You foster discontent among the masses! Or among MY masses, anyway!
I liked Florida's tryouts better than any of the others, so far, by the way.
The man with the autistic child is a darlin' and the girl with the muscle issue is a sweetie, too.
I liked the sisters, blue and yellow, the little/thin guy who tried out before and ESPECIALLY, the big kid with the cowboy hat, his dad's truck and a juvenile bank robbery record.
I think I'd like him to go, at least, to the top 3.
sigh
And where is Deidra with the amazing list, including names?
I'm already thinking of her wonderfulness as a tool to aid my stupid memory!
sorry
Shadykins,
click here to see the top 24 list! Even though I love AI, I do enjoy this site. They're just so FUNNY, and they love AI too in their own way. Warning though-- cursing and trash talk is sprinkled throughout the articles and posts, often humorously used but sometimes mean-spiritedly used.
On the main page, there have already been 3 corrections to the top 24 list...
Sorry I haven't been posting here. The Chicago episode drained my enthusiasm more than I thought. I think what I'll do is wait until the Top 24. Then I'll DEFINITELY return.
The best thing about Tues night's episode was how cute Avril is and what a KNOCKOUT Katy Perry is!
Whoa!
Okay, how geeky am I? Let me count the ways!
Here is an American Idol contestant made from a video game character editor (Soul Caliber) posted at a comic book message board!
MWAH!
Adam Lambert....
![[Linked Image]](http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/5315/adamlambertn.th.jpg)
.... and for the finale! Adam duets with MADONNA!! (screams of hysteria from the crowd!!!)
![[Linked Image]](http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/1331/adamadonna.th.jpg)
Katy Perry is far more beautiful than I knew. Wow. Avril was cute too but Katy's in another league or somrthing.
And I *loved* Katy sniping at Kara. Made me feel good to see she who unleashed "No Boundaries" upon us taken down!
Also, I was all prepared to hate Little Orphan Tranny at the end but he's realllllllllly cute so I don't. Yet.
Posting as I watch... NPH!!!! KICKASS!!!!
Julie must've just gottn out of clown class.... she's better this time...
Oh Jules... just go on back to clown college...
Barney's/whip girl was SO CUTE.
How kuh-YOOT was the Tourrette's guy? He was really good... and I also LOVED Rodrick and his original song about AI. Cuteness!!!!
Hmmm... lots of pretty girls....
Yes, with screechy, monotone voices!
sigh
Sketch, you are so funny.
Just love the Adam stuff!
Rodrick is a professional - his song was great and so was his performance.
I don't quite know how to feel about him being there.
oh well.
Why do I watch the auditions? I just don't enjoy them at all! Sigh.....
WOW-- BLISTERING HOT expose on Todrick's shady past re: Oz The Musical and some other stuff he was involved in... those VFTW guys don't hold back.
You be the judge:
Is Todrick shady???
HOLLYWOOD IS COMING!!!!!!!
I was so done with the tryouts yesterday!
Skipped em tonight.
Ellen!
I have officially selected a girl favorite!
Watch for Crystal near the end of tonight's ep, when she sings "You Make Me Feel Like A Natural Woman".
Though I have yet to select a boy favorite, that guy near the start who sings "Straight Up" was REALLY good...
Hey, I was a good guesser last night, in line with the judges. I kept calling it right before they did, as far as who would be cut and who would go through.
I like this part, but am still looking forward to the actual show show.
Ellen was really good and her eyes looked amazing!
Originally posted by MLLASH:
I have officially selected a girl favorite!
Watch for Crystal near the end of tonight's ep, when she sings "You Make Me Feel Like A Natural Woman".
Though I have yet to select a boy favorite, that guy near the start who sings "Straight Up" was REALLY good...
I agree, and would add that I really liked the guy who's baby was being born while he was auditioning.
As always, I tend to like the ones who sing something less obvious, or songs that I don't know.
I was tickled just now to hear Brooke White's "California Song" playing while they were kicking off contestants! A *lot* o folks I liked have been given the axe...!
That's the thing about Hollywood Week, we see many good singers crack under the pressure.
The top 24 are chosen! I fer sure like a good handful of them already, and am loking forward to next week.
I particularly like DiDi and Casey, and it's not because they're such cute kids.
I just like their approaches and voices.
CRYSTAL BOWERSOX remains my girl favorite right now.
Shirtless CASEY JAMES is my official current guy favorite.
And in case your wondering who that Whatsisname Urban kid is, he's
the guy chosen to replace Little Or...ng got himself booted out of the top 24.
Paige: Interesting choice to give a hard rock song the soul treatment, but her shrill attempts at the high notes made my ears hurt. The footage of her singing "Living For the City" (Stealth informs me that Ian Gillan gave that soul classic the hard rock treatment, BTW) was much better. Guess I missed some good stuff during my American Idol hiatus. I blame Shania Twain.
Ashley: "So what if I break down?" Yeah, but what if your voice breaks again and again? I'm not happy.
Janell: Ah, an 80s power ballad, so Stealth is pleased. Hmmm...shame that the vocal is alternately flat and all-over-the-place.
Lilly: Quirky. I don't think she's pop star material, but I could see her with a loyal cult following. And she made one of the least obvious Beatles choices -- good for her.
Katelyn: Not without talent, but I think there's just something really generic about her voice.
Haeley: Uh-oh. One of the most obvious Beatles choices. The new arrangement had potential, but the performance was just a mess. OMG, I typed that before Simon called it a mess.
Lacey: Strong song, weak performance. Kara suggested she cover the Sundays instead -- somehow, I never imagined Kara liking the Sundays, but I'm glad she does. I hope there's a lot of people out there right now doing a search for the Sundays; their first album is wonderful.
Michelle: Oh, no, I can't stand that Alicia Keys song. But wait...I'm actually enjoying it. By far my favorite performance so far tonight. Not as good as the original, Simon? Please.
Didi: Terrible song choice, indulgent performance. As with Paige, the footage of her earlier performance was much better. And once again, Simon used one of the same words as me.
Siobhan: Oh dear, she's going to cover that cheeseball Chris Isaak. I'm dreading this, but hope to be pleasantly surprised. Um...she has a tendency to overemote, and...I just don't like her. I didn't like the bit of "Living For the City" that she did, either; Randy needs to get his ears looked at.
Crystal: Er...nice white-girl dreads. Alanis Morrissette? NOOOOOOOO! And the performance is even worse that I expected. It's torture. Unlike Ellen, I don't want to see more of her. Kara's gaffe was hilarious, though.
Katie: A supper-club song gets a supper-club performance. Coming from a high school student, that's creepy.
AGREED re: The Sundays first album... it's one early 90s cassette I definitely need to purchase on CD. I do have their second album on CD... it isn't quite as catchy to me. My favorite song on that one is "Life & Soul" because of its simplicity and the serene, eerie, sorta-sexy fadeout repeated over and over, "all my sea, all my blue...".
Anyhoo, in a season that was supposed to be femme-strong, I find myself looking forward to the boys tomorrow. And not (just) because I'm queer.
"..Stealth is pleased"? hmmmm....
My two favorites were Lilly and DiDi.
I'm not sophisticated or knowledgeable about music or music groups so I have to just go with what/who touches me when they sing.
DiDi's voice fascinates me.
Her personality is a little bland on the outside but her choice of song and indulgent(yes I agree that's a great word for it) hints at other things not so compliant or simple.
Lilly reminds me of Mary, ie 'Peter, Paul and Mary', with 90's eye make-up.
I loved her choice of song and look but her voice is bland, to me, anyway.
I missed the first 2 singers.
Was there something wrong with the mikes or ?.
In the replays at the end, they sounded just terrible!
Anyway, they're the two that I'd send home.
Casey tonight!
Originally posted by MLLASH:
AGREED re: The Sundays first album... it's one early 90s cassette I definitely need to purchase on CD. I do have their second album on CD... it isn't quite as catchy to me.
The first album was lightning in a bottle -- so delicate, fanciful, and magical, it was virtually impossible to follow up. They should have broken up without making another one IMO.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
"..Stealth is pleased"? hmmmm....
Originally posted by Candle:
DiDi's voice fascinates me.
Her personality is a little bland on the outside but her choice of song and indulgent(yes I agree that's a great word for it) hints at other things not so compliant or simple.
Despite my criticisms of her, I actually hope she doesn't get sent home, because I'd like to hear her sing a song that I like.
Originally posted by Candle:
I missed the first 2 singers.
Was there something wrong with the mikes or ?.
In the replays at the end, they sounded just terrible!
Nothing wrong with the mikes, just their voices, especially Ashley's.
I've decided that after last night's disappointing show, it's not worth the effort and energy to be on the computer and watching the show at the same time...at least, not until they're down to the Top 12.
I'll still be watching the show, but until the Top 12, I'll be posting my thoughts in the morning, working from memory.
Originally posted by Deirdre:
Nothing wrong with the mikes, just their voices, especially Ashley's.
That IS too bad!
. . . I'll still be watching the show, but until the Top 12, I'll be posting my thoughts in the morning, working from memory.
Midnite the same day is a challenge for me!
This will all get better later on, you think?!
It must be their age and inexperience!
I'm sorry I missed the first two and came in on Urban, although the replays weren't much better than last nights, really.
I don't think Urban was as bad as Simon said, but he's certainly not someone I'd ever really enjoy.
I'm afraid I'm gonna be a Casey fan all the way through.
Lee and Andy are a little interesting, too.
I know who my final 6 are, anyway.
It's gonna be a long season.
I thought Casey left all the other guys in the dust. Good song choice, good voice, good looks, great hair...unless he makes some Nadia Turner-level blunders, his victory seems assured.
The funny thing about Urban is that he's really no worse a singer than the guy from One Republic. The theme nights get a lot of criticism in this thread, but I like them because they're a reminder that music used to be better.
Yes, songs used to be better.
My all time favorite singer/voice is Josh Grobin but sometimes I wish he had better material.
After him, it's a tie between Paul Simon and Paul McCartney/John Lennon.
They MADE super songs.
sigh
I always think it's strange that the Idol kids are put in theme nights and then critisize for song choices.
Even worse, at the end, they get dissed for the songs that the judges and the producer pick.
Oh dear. I'm just not finding myself all that into AI this season, except for reading stuff like they have on Vote for the Worst. I'm sure that will change.
Loved seeing Allison and Kris tonight. Thought Allsion sounded kinda bad, yet I could tell I would like this song. I'm going to seek it out on YouTube and listen to its studio version.
Weren't Casey's "why the hell are you putting the camera in MY face?" expressions cute during the awful hella-gay group number? As was Crystal being forced to do goofy cornball dance mooves. Heh! I love Crystal and Casey.
Someone better step it up, 'cause so far, this season is made of MEH.
The thing I usually like to do is review each performance night in order of my least favorite performance to my most favorite. But at this point I have to economize my 'puter time, so I'll just comment on what I recall. I'm using the AI website with the top 24's portraits, to keep track.
I like Andrew Garcia's ambition to rework songs, but he needs to remember to keep them Idol-ish.
Casey James is eye candy and ear candy. JEALOUS! Naw, not really... well, maybe kinda. lol
LOVE Crystal! Wasn't too thrilled with the Alanis song, but it was still good.
Haley really needs to tone it down, but she is only 16. Still.... it's a competition.
Jermaine did over sing, but still good.
Surprised and delighted by Katelyn! I thought she was stupid stupid stupid for picking that song but I thought she really nailed it and she was supercute!
I like Lee and Big Mike a lot. I hope they hang in there and figure it out.
LOVE LILLY!!! Great rendition of a song I'd have to listen to the original again to remember. She's my favorite girl, it's just that I'm not so sure she's really Idol winner material. We'll see.
Todrick's screwed up version of Kelly's song kinda irritated me. I wanted to like it, but I couldn't.
The rejects were no big surprise. I think it's a "starpower" competition at this point.
I should say... potential starpower competition!
I kinda thought the 'Morrison' kid was right in his comment about the judges being all 'we love your Morrison vibe' until the 24, then they wanted to see something else.
Oh well.
He's got enough to be a 'front man' like Kara said so maybe we'll see him again someday.
I would have sent a few home before Janel but there ARE too many bland blondes.
Ashley was absolutely no loss to me.
I held my breath with DiDi, though.
I hope this was a wake-up call for her!
I don't care fore Allison and didn't really remember her. I knew that I should but I just didn't.
She needs Adam to make me interested in her voice, I guess.
Chris was fun to watch but 'Let it Be' really didn't have much to it. I remember that song as much more complicated than that.
I like Ellen, but I'm starting to miss Paula's expertize and things. I'd trade her for Kara anyday. Simon seems to have no chemistry with her, at all.
They should change her seat with Ellen, imo.
I won't miss any of the four who were voted out, especially not Ashley -- she has to be the LEAST GRACIOUS LOSER in the history of AI.
As Lash already observed, Casey was adorable.
I didn't like either of the guest performances. Allison seemed wasted, and Kris ruined one of the most beautiful songs ever written.
Typing as it plays tonight, so SPOILERS FOLLOW...
Mike's become a contender now. ImPRESSED.
John Park did fine, but I agree about the lack of connection. FEEL IT, John! Don't dream it-- BE IT.
Casey's GREAT with the guitar. Kara obviously had to act as she did tonight before her husband divorced her. Vocally, it's true Casey was just a'iight tonight though, but he's still sooper-kyoot.
Alex is a different cute, nerd cute. I bet he would get me flowers. Then I bet I would put out. I find myself drawn to his odd voice. Nice acoustic guitar. For real, who has a voice like that? I like it. WOW, killer praise from the judges. I'm glad!
Uggh. Fraudrick. This is going to suck ass... Pay the kids back, Fraudrick. And stop trying to pretend you're straight, you ain't fooling no one. Is he incapable of singing a song's original melody? Bye bye now.
OH GAWD!! Jermaine SLAUGHTERED one of the most beautiful songs of the 90s (or was it late 80s? 1990 maybe) last week... but not before totally pissing all over it and shoving bamboo up its fingernails and clamping electrodes to its testicles, so I am so NOT looking forward to this. Well, this week wasn't on the level of last week's abomination, but it wasn't that great either. I'm glad the judges didn't care for it.
Andrew Garcia? I wonder which forgotten peppy pop tune he'll turn into a pretty though somewhat sleepy lullabye this week...? Hmm. He changed it up a little this week, by not changing it up. I kinda like it, but I still get this whole "Danny Gokey 2.0" vibe that's making me not jump all the way in just yet. A couple bum notes at the end.
Aaron Kelly? I can't even say he's cute without getting arrested! So let's just discuss his talent....
Hmm. I was going to not type anything more to be funny, but the kid is actually good. REAL good. He annoys me less than David Archuletta did for some reason. I predict top 4 now. Write it down.
Tim Urban? Must have sex with!! He's VFTW's guy pick. I predict vast improvement this week. Let's see. Looks like I was wrong, "vast" was too strong. But still, TAKE IT OFF!!! teehee!
Okay, one thing you should know is that, lookswise, Lee Dewyze is the kind of straight guy all the gay guys get a hujamous crush on. Well, me anyway. But can he sing? Yes he can, though why do I get the feeling I'd never buy one of his albums?
So that's it. MUCH better this week.
Like last week, Mike and Lee rise to the top of my list. I also liked Alex Lambert! surprise!
The others were either goofy or sleepy to me.
I hope Crystal's okay!
Casey, Lee, Aaron, Andy and Mike were just okay this week.
I thought Casey was a little swallowed up by the noise but Mike did much better this week than last, imo, but he's still not great, too monotoned for me.
Like Sketch, I really was surprised to enjoy Alex Lambert this week.
His voice reminds me a little of Rod Stewart, which is a pretty interesting development.
(I voted for him and Casey this week.)
Ellen said that Tim should be an actor/singer rather than a singer and I agree with her, although I can see Aaron in Glee even more than Tim.
Togrick, Rodrick, whatever, needs to do plays and the other one (Jermaine?) needs to stay with Christian music, I think. We're pretty forgiving on music abilities if we feel the singers connection to the Spirit of God.
I feel bad for John Park.
There's just something about him that doesn't work for me.
I wish it did because his voice is okay and he seems so nice.
sigh
Are they eliminating 4 again this week?
This week, none of the guys stood out for me. Some of them were better than last week, but there were no star-making performances, even from my beloved Casey, who chose a really over-familiar song (and we all know what familiarity breeds, don't we?)
In no particular order...
The whole while that Lacey was adequately singing Sixpence None the Richer, I kept wishing she was singing the Sundays instead. I doubt she'll get another chance, but I hope she does.
DiDi really blew her chance. She has talent, but she is so not a soul singer. And once again, indulgent. Goodbye.
Lilly doing Sam Cooke...I think the judges are deeply wrong, and Lilly will probably not be back next week. Stealth thought that her attempts at testifying sounded like the guy from Rush.
Three misguided attempts at soul in one night. Katharine McPhee's version of Aretha Franklin's "Think" was transcendent, but Katharine is not like most white girls. Siobhan's version was alternately flat and noisy, and she is like most white girls.
Katelyn...I don't know, she just grates on me.
I liked the song that Katie chose, but her performance was meh. She lacks warmth.
Stealth ran screaming from the room when they announced that Paige was going to cover Kelly Clarkson. Paige is less shrill than Kelly, but who isn't? And the song is awful.
And Hayley really does need a lot more practice.
Michelle doing Creed filled me with dread, partly because I personally dislike Creed. But surprisingly, it wasn't bad at all. Two weeks in a row, Michelle has gotten me to enjoy songs I don't like, and two weeks in a row, she's been my favorite of the night.
As for Crystal, good for her that she's so strong, but I just do not like her voice or her look. And I love the CCR song she chose, but I didn't like what she did with it.
CRYSTAL is my favorite of the boys and girls and my pick for the win. I ***LOVE*** CCR and when I doscovered she was doing this song, I just about wet my pants. LOVE HER, ADORE HER, L'AMOUR HER.
But it isn't ALL about Crystal, after tonight... other lasses I l'amoured:
LACEY. Her voice is sooooOOOoooo quirky and chirpy or whatever, I just really like her. I'd like to see her do a Cranberries song. I'm scared she's a goner but I really hope not. "Kiss Me" is a real feel good song for me and I felt good watching her perform it.
LILLY. She reminded me to a degree of Lucinda Williams, and Lu is my favorite artist, so that should tell you something.
SIOBHAN. I never would have thought I would like her. I even didn't mind her so-so performance of "Think", she's just so amusing and likable.
PAIGE picked a current song and had fun with it. Definitely points in her favor.
At this point I'm still not real super-invested in anyone except for Crystal, but I do truly hope Lacey makes it through.
This sounds bad, I know, but I just wouldn't buy music from any of them.
They're good kids and some even have interesting voices, but one thing or another gets in the way.
The ones I like always leave early.
Farewell, Michelle.
At least Lacey's still around.
I liked the song that Danny Gokey performed, but I didn't know it was country until after it was over and he and Ryan started talking. I just thought it was a good pop song.
So, who's the other ones!!!!!!!
I have another hour and a half until the show even comes on!
Tell me!
boohoo
Nooooooo....not Danny Gokey! I was hoping I was done seeing him after last season.
I am intrigued by Paige---she needs to do a BIG showy song next week. Maybe "Bust Your Windows"??
After girls' night, my already favorites stay in place.
I really like what Crystal did a LOT.
I was skeptical about Lilly's version of "A Change..." but I ended up liking it. I have listened to Adam Lambert's version of that song over and over and over, so I'm obviously a big fan of his version. I also really like Patti LaBelle's live version. So, Lilly gets points for her departure version.
I thought the judges were totally wrong about Katelyn's version of the Coldplay song. It wasn't too slow. It kinda reminded me of when GaGa goes mellow. AND Katelyn is just really cute. I don't see the corny Simon's talking about. Maybe it's more there live?
The rest don't interest me much. Siobahn was pretty charming, but didn't really wow me vocally.
The eliminations didn't shock or annoy me.
Opening with...yet another awful Kelly Clarkson song. As usual, Katie is all technique and no heart.
I am not looking forward to hearing Siobhan sing "House of the Rising Sun."
LOL She screwed up a lyric.
Meh overall.
Finally, time for Lacey.
I like the song, I like the vocal. This may just be her breakthrough performance.
Katelyn's going to cover Carole King? That might actually work.
It didn't work for me.
If DiDi doesn't choose the right song this week, her luck's not going to hold out.
Fleetwood Mac's "Rhiannon." I love that song.
Uh-oh. She's trying to affect Stevie Nicks' unique vocal stylings. Unwise.
And the arrangement is sopoforic.
Huh. Paige really turned back the clock with her choice.
There was something very supper-clubby about the performance. She's the most likely to be voted off. Simon echoed my thoughts.
Crystal's going to sing Tracy Chapman. I could actually tolerate that.
I liked it better than her last couple performances, but she was shrill in spots.
Lilly's going to sing Patsy Cline. I'm actually looking forward to this.
After an awkward start, it clicked. I liked it even better than her "Fixing a Hole" performance.
Some really good song choices tonight, even if they didn't all work. By far my favorite episode to date this season. Hopefully this is a sign of things to come.
Thank SPACE its only 1 hour tonight... typing after each performance...
Bye bye Katie.
Siobhan could be one to watch out for. She's in.
Lacey-- I can guarantee you I'd buy a CD of hers... LOVE her voice, but is she in? I dunno... the judges liked her. I hope she makes it! Of all the girls, she seems the most continually 'on the bubble' in the competition, even though I've liked everything she's done.
Katelyn is easily the most marketable girl. Despite the critiques, I'll be surprised if she isn't in.
Most I've enjoyed Didi yet.
Paige might be in trouble. Bye Paige. You're cute and all but know that your sacrifice makes a spot for my beloved Lacey!
Crystal is perfection. Learn her, live her, love her, adore her, l'amour her.... ENCORE!!
Okay I'm officially in Lilly's camp too now.
LOVE the quirkiness and diversity in this season's girls.
Here's my personal favorties in order:
1. Crystal, of course.
2. Lacey, hope to see her on a Cranberries or Sundays song ASAP.
3. Didi earns the 3rd spot based on the strength and beauty of her acoustic "Rhiannon" tonight.
4. Lilly.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Lacey, hope to see her on a Cranberries or Sundays song ASAP.
Me, too. Either that or Dolores O'Riordan's minor solo hit "Ordinary Day", which I think is one of the most overlooked songs of the past decade (it was big in continental Europe, though.)
I was SO disappointed with Paige! I was hoping she would finally deliver, but she choked big time. She's a goner.
I would like to think Katie is also out, but I think it might be Katelyn or Lacey, both of whom I liked. I thought Katelyn was good two weeks running, but the judges really don't like her!
Lacey's performance was very interesting, and I hope she makes it through. Siobhan, Crystal and Lilly were also fine. Girls are SO much better than the boys this year!
Crystal reminds me of Janis Joplin in attitude and voice.
She's just a little prettier and I don't know if Janis played the guitar.
I like her but I've seen her, I guess.
She's really good, though.
Lacey's cute and she has a cute, quirky voice.
She reminds me a lot of the little gal in Shop of Horrors and Ghostbusters, is it Annie Potts?
My favorite is still DiDi, though.
I'm a sucker for a singer/songwriter type.
She's got so much talent.
Shioban is my other favorite.
I find her to be just right!
I like Lilly and Katelyn, too.
Katelyn is something else.
I'd put her on Broadway.
I like to put people there!
Overall, this is a pretty mellow crowd of girls. I mean, I like many of them, but we don't seem to have a real "And I am Telling You I'm Not Going" type.
I really liked Crystal's performance. Consistent with her overall "package."
I wasn't sure about Lilly's rendition of Patsy Cline. Therefore, I must not like it. I think Lilly and DiDi sound a lot alike. I normally really like Lilly.
Siobahn was pretty dang good. I didn't like her at first, but I'm really getting to like her.
I was really liking Katelyn, but man, she blew it with that Carole King song. Blah!
I think Lacey's cute and all, but I just can't see her winning this thing. Then again, I never imagined Kris Allen could win....
Gawd. If I never hear a man singing Kate Bush's most beautiful song EVER again it will be too soon.
Right now I'm too pissed off to even comment further.
None of the guys' performances worked for me, not even my beloved Casey, who once again suffered from bad song choice and by-the-numbers performance.
I did think Lee's huffingly-puffingly earnest performance of that awful "Fireflies" song was unintentionally hilarious, though.
Right there with ya Lash. I did NOT understand the tongue bath "Big Mike" got from the judges.
Strange week, actually.
sigh
LASH thank God you agree with me! I thought I was insane,,,
WTF???
I call SHENANIGANS on these results.
SPOILERS FOLLOW BECAUSE I'm PISSED
Paige & Katie?
I'm hurt to lose Lilly so soon.
Alex should have stayed over Andrew "the SEE YA in" Garcia.
Thank gawd Fraudrick is gone at least.
On the plus side, CRYSTAL and LACEY are SAFE so I'm happy there.
Originally posted by Mattropolis:
LASH thank God you agree with me! I thought I was insane,,,
Y'know how they're always saying "ooooh, Whitney, Mariah, Michael-- those singers' songs are untouchable+! Well I personally think Kate Bush is the untouchable one.
(Yes I know Maxwell redid "This Woman's Work" years ago but at least he did keep it in Kate's eerie style and didn't turn it into a freakin' soul jam)
Paige and Katie?
is right!
I liked Lilly and Katelyn so much better than either of them.
sigh
Alex shouldn't have gone either.
We're probably seeing the influence of the anti Idol group with Tim being there over Alex.
I like Tim as a person, he's humble and tries very hard.
But Alex is a wonderfully unique talent who could have really benefitted from the experience.
Do people ever think of the consequences of their actions?!
Sad.
At the risk of seeming uncool, Big Mike's performance was really the only one I liked from the guys. I liked it a lot! I have to be honest, I didn't know the song before. I youtubed Kate Bush and Maxwell after reading the comments here. It is a beautiful song - every version.
When I was a kid in the 70's, living in Australia, Kate Bush's "Wuthering Heights" was the #1 song for weeks and weeks and I really loved it. Then, I loved her duet with Peter Gabriel. Otherwise, I haven't followed her career much. I know "Running down that hill."
I need to add my barfing Drura to the list regarding the female eliminations. BOO!!!!
Toddrick was too "all over the place" even though he can sing and someone on the list wasn't as good as Alex. I don't know who. I liked Tim Urban's "Hallelujah."
So, what's done is done. I'm NOT looking forward to Rolling Stones night. Maybe Crystal will do something I like. Maybe Casey. We'll see.
Wuthering Heights is another magnificent Kate Bush song, though I was first exposed to the Pat Benatar version, which is also quite good!
I don't think I have heard the Pat Benatar version... I'm going to go look for it now.
And I agree... Paige and Katie should have gone way before Lilly or Katelyn.
I'm not as upset with the guy eliminations, although I still hated Michael Lynch's version of that song. I don't have the same love for him a lot of people do, and would have been happy to see him go home. However a lot of people seemed to love him doing that song.
I'm just happy Lee is still there.
Lacey HAS TO DO "Ruby Tuesday"!!
Casey HAS TO DO "Wild Horses"!!
And, Sketchy, Kate Bush's entire catalog is worth owning and relatively small thanks to her time-consuming perfectionism.
I want Lacey to do a Bjork song... Don't ask me why but when she performed the other night, thats who I thought of.
I'll be out late tonight visiting a friend, so I'm taping AI and will post about it tomorrow night.
Quite of bit of step-uppage tonight.
Tonight was the most I've ever liked Aaron and Lee.
I *LOVED* Paige on "Honky Tonk WOman".
Enjoyed Casey as usual.
Siobhan is kind-of awesome, really.
Crystal and Lacey remain my favorites, and I'm going to vote for them... Done. 3 times for Lacey and 1 time for MamaSox.
Okay, not reading any other comments as I post mine....
I was dreading the idea of the Rolling Stones' songs on Idol, but overall, it wasn't as bad as I feared. Most of the contestants this season are kinda chill singer/songwriter types, which I appreciate, but it isn't my #1 favorite type of music. Maybe that's why nothing really *offended* me tonight.
Least favorite to most favorite...
12. Tim - horrible interpretation
11. Casey - not bad really, just boring
10. Paige - almost good, not a fan of her
9. Michael - didn't work for me, but I like him
8. Andrew - almost good, I wish he was doing better
7. Katie - forgettable, but well done
6. Didi - good
5. Lee - good, but I wish he would have cut loose a little bit more
4. Lacey - I developed a crush on her tonight!
3. Crystal - love her, this was pretty good
2. Aaron - I'm surprised I liked it that much!
1. Siobahn - I love the kind of drama she brought to the performance! She looked awesomely awesome, too.
I feel a little bad, here.
I am almost an anti-fan of the Rolling Stones.
I've always been that way, right back to the Beatles time.
Then, it seemed like people were either for the Beatles or for the Rolling Stones, and for me that attitude has carried over to today.
So, I was generally not aware the songs as 'bad or good' interpretations and I fell asleep during Paige, so I missed Crystal.
Sioban was my favorite, although the song didn't make much sense to me.
Sometimes I didn't know what she3 was saying and sometimes what she said just didn't make sense.
But, I loved her performance.
sigh
I was mostly bored, I'm afraid.
sorry
Well, let the abominations commence.
My feelings are hurt at tonight's results.
I am really angry right now.
Lacey's performance last night was disappointing, yes, but it was not the worst of the night. Tim, Mike, and Andrew were all much worse!
There's a terrible irony that a fresh female talent like Lacey gets the carpet pulled out from under her while music-biz whores like Ke$ha and Ornilanthi get the major label push.
Sigh
On a positive note, I enjoyed a lot of the performances last night.
Now that Lacey is out, DiDi is my new favorite. She finally clicked last night. I also surprsingly liked Katie, Crystal, and Lee, the last of whom sang one of my favorite Stones songs and redeemed himself for his sketch-comedy performance of a cheesy modern pop song last week.
Yes, Lacey is so much better than KeSha and Omilanthi.
She's also better than Paige and Katie and Tim, at the very least.
Her final song was just perfect and I enjoyed it as much then as when she first sang it.
Fortunately, I think she's good enough and quirky enough and cute enough that she should become successful on her own, now that people are aware of her.
As for the rest of the results, I don't know who's doing the voting, but they're kind of scary.
Originally posted by Candle:
Fortunately, I think she's good enough and quirky enough and cute enough that she should become successful on her own, now that people are aware of her.
I hope you're right, Shady.
I'll certainly do my part and buy her first CD whenever it comes out.
Did you guys like Ke$ha feat. 3OH!3? I kinda did.
I've been hollering BLAH BLAH BLAH all day...
We turn the radio on at school maybe.... 4 times a day, and EVERY time, Kesha's song is on. It's weird.
The girls in my class did NOT like it. I meekly didn't say anything, but I do like her weirdness.
So I'm not really a fan of American Idol (I don't dislike it by any means, its just never been a show I've watched) but my life loves it. So I kind of catch some of it while I'm reading comics or rocking out on Legion World on my laptop.
Some comments:
- Didi is my favorite. My wife not so much.
- Lacey, who was eliminated, was my second favorite. I thought she was pretty awesome!
- And Siobahn, is my third favorite. I think she's got a great voice and she's definitely an individual which is needed.
- The guy everyone is raving about, Casey, just doesn't seem to have it performance wise. He needs to step it up.
- Like I said, I've never really watched the show, but I know I couldn't stand Paula. I'm glad she's been replaced. Both Kira (sp?) and Ellen are much better.
- Ke$ha was awful! I think she's probably the single worst recording artist getting radio airtime these days.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Did you guys like Ke$ha feat. 3OH!3? I kinda did.
I've been hollering BLAH BLAH BLAH all day...
Lash, did you miss this post?
Originally posted by Deirdre:
There's a terrible irony that a fresh female talent like Lacey gets the carpet pulled out from under her while music-biz whores like Ke$ha and Ornilanthi get the major label push.
And just for the heck of it, I wanted to spotlight this wonderful quote from Cobie:
Originally posted by Cobalt Kid:
- Ke$ha was awful! I think she's probably the single worst recording artist getting radio airtime these days.
Tonight's episode was painful to watch, and there were times I thought of just turning it off. I didn't like any of the performances, not even my two faves Casey, who could have been auditioning for a bar band, and DiDi, who was horribly indulgent (although I had to note with amusement that I felt the same way about Siobhan's performance last week, which the judges LOVED.) The less said about the other performances, the better. Katie doing a Fergie song -- why, God, why? And I'm getting to really hate Siobhan and her Kelly Clarkson-style screaming; I have this terrible feeling she's going to come in first place.
My fave: Crystal.
The worst: Paige.
Siobhan needs to stop trying to be Adam Lambert.
Mike is a cheese sandwhich on cheesy bread dipped in cheese fondue.
Aaron will make no less than top 4.
Tim will not be going home tomorrow.
Casey was a'ight.
Lee could habe been a disaster but wasn;t.
Katie at least gets props for picking a song from within the last few years,
Garcia wasn't as bad as the judges thought, but I've felt for weeks he is a one trick pony.
I'm thinking IDOL may be over, seriously. Kris and Adam's sales tanked, Kara is blood-curdlingly awful and Simon's leaving.
Writing's on the wall.
Uh oh. Forgot Didi. Well, 'nuff said there.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Katie at least gets props for picking a song from within the last few years
Yes, but it's a horrible song.
I had to get up and leave the room when Paige started.
The only other times I can remember doing that was when I was a kid and Lucy, from I Love Lucy, would start doing something so embarrassing and degrading to herself that I just couldn't stand to see it.
I get so angry because Paige, Tim, Katie and Andrew are still there and some other people that I liked so much more are gone.
Oh, well.
It's worth the dull, fallen short acts just to hear Ellen say something that makes me smile.
The one really good moment, other the Ellen's time, was when Ryan lived in the moment with Crystal and her little piece of rug.
For me, that was brilliant, wonderful stuff and why I love Ryan.
And now, Crystal.
I didn't get the Didi hate. I enjoyed it, and thought she was the second best of the night--after Crystal. I love the adorkable Siobhan, but it's time to put away the screaming for a while.
Not reading others' comments....
Overall a pretty bad show. Honestly, I only really liked the top 2 on my list a lot.
My least favorites to most favorite:
11. Paige - HORRIBLE! Probably the worst vocal I've ever heard at this stage of the competition in all 9 seasons.
10. Tim - adequate vocals, awkward stage performance.
9. Andrew - terrible interpretation and another awkward stage show
8. Katie - is she 30 playing a teen? Her vocals were off, but not totally offensive
7. Casey - so dull, terrible song choice. He forgot that this is a *singing* competition.
6. Lee-fine, a bit forgettable
5. Didi- nice job, I agree with the judges that it seemed a bit over-acted.
4. Aaron - I'm not really a fan, but he makes good choices and performs well.
3. Siobahn - good choice, well done. I like the added screech but I hope she doesn't do that very time.
2. Big Mike - I LOVE that song and am a harsh critic when it's performed. He did a great job and the judges mentioned all the superfluous stuff. I still liked it.
1. Crystsal - the moment I know I've been waiting for - her version af a Janis Joplin song. She owned it!
Tonight was the right choice.
I liked that Miley defended Tim and his "Hairspray/Zac Efron" moves.
Miley seems to be quite mature for her age. I did not enjoy her performance and thought the Joe Jonas/hot chick performance was laughably bad.
Good thing the judges don't critique guest performers.
Ryan seems to be enjoying himself this year.
He's tallied out what he's making per hour. Prolly about $100,000 or so...
Okay, so Vote For the Worst has leaked the song selection list the Idols get to choose from for Soul/R&B night.
I **NEVER** want to hear the judges bitch about song selection if THIS is what the contestants have to pick from.
As you can guess, there's a ton of Stevie Wonder, Mariah, Michael and Whitney... stuff most of these guys should NOT touch. Full list available at the VFTW site.
There was, however, one song that leapt out at me, and would certainly be the one I would choose if given the choice... I hereby vow to vote no less than 10 times for any IDOL who sings
RAINY NIGHT IN GEORGIA even if they cock it up.
("Natural WOman" is on the list-- I'm wondering if Crystal will reprise her Hollywood week version).
How does one do those songs by those artists?
It's like the Stones songs.
The theory is good on paper but how do you live with it?
Especially when the judges say things like it's a Stones song! I expected so much more!
:shakeshead:
sigh
Originally posted by MLLASH:
He's tallied out what he's making per hour. Prolly about $100,000 or so...
Is that per hour of broadcast time or per hour on the project?
'Cause he's gotta be worth 300 to 500 thousand per week!
Or more, imo.
He's a prefect foil for Simon!
AND he's a cutie.
Deirdre sends her regards, and says she won't be watching tonight's AI because none of the remaining contestants have shown any talent for soul music.
Siobhan:
Ruined a great Chaka Khan song. Pitch was bad and the Lambertlike screaming? Ick. grade: D+
I'm typing as the show plays while using a separate window to post elsewhere on LW.
I like the judges giving Siobhan additional notes.
I haven't forgotten my promise to vote at least 10 times for anyone who sings "Rainy Night In Georgia"....
Casey:
Eye candy. Sounds like he's gonna rock it out. Must have sex with. I thought he was pretty good, not GREAT though. grade: B
Simon was all about it. Cool. I wonder if they will show anymore backstage after-performance footage. Was that a first?
Big Mike:
Oh Lord. Weak start. Now it's getting better. Definitely better as it progresses. I kinda liked it. My favorite performance of his yet. Bad lighting job. grade: B-
Like Kara, I've never heard it before and I liked his job enough to seek out the original.
I guess backstage footage IS the new norm.
Didi:
Not liking the song choice. We'll see. Oh Lord. Suckage. High School talent show level thus far. Maybe GRADE school level. grade: D-
Didi doesn have an ability to put affectation to her voice and she should have tonight. It was just lame.
Whoa-- Didi called Ryan out on his nosiness!
Tim is going to sing Anita Baker?? VFTW will go APE voting for him tonight! He does look sexy!
Tim:
He's definitely this year's Sanjaya. We'll see how he sings... This could be good or a colossal trainwreck. Didn't know he had any high range... Anita's got a TON of it. Here we go... He's doing a LOT better than I thought... but like Didi, it's kinda High School talent show... he's doing better than she did though... not hating it but it isn't great by any means. Well, maybe great for TIM. grade: C
Wow, Randy's best analysis yet: pedestrian, and not the search for the next superstar. Usually he's judging panel ballast. Good job, Randy. Simon's being kinda mean! I mean, Tim's come a pretty long way after replacing Little Orphan Tranny.
Andrew? Oh great SPACE, NooooOOOOoooo! AND he chose CHRIS BROWN? A BIG MISTAKE considering Brown's recent troubles.
Andrew:
He's by no means bad, but not my cup of tea. I do like the song though. Don't know the original but I'd like to, if it wasn't Chris Brown. He's doing pretty well, second so far to Casey tonight. grade: B-
I think choosing Chris Brown was a mistake. I dunno, we'll see tomorrow.
Katie:
Not "Chain of Fools"... SO OVERDONE ON IDOL. Actually, it wasn't a total abomination. Best of the girls yet by a mile. It was actually pretty good.... especially for this season of AI. grade: B-
Lee:
Must have sex with. But will he sing well? The Usher clip has him sounding pretty good...He's so "Kris Allen-lite" to me usually... so far this performance isn't changing my opinion... Now gettin' a little soulful-ish. WOW. Got impressive. I think vocally he outdid Casey tonight. Pretty good job. grade: B+
Ellen's right, it was the best performance yet.
Crystal and Aaron are left. Thank space. Mayhap the producers saved the best 3 for last tonight? It's looking like a Lee/Crystal/Aaron top 3 maybe? We'll see.
Crystal:
No guitar tonight? OMfreakingG. For anyone else, I'd really be bitching about this overdone song but I can't wait to hear/see her do it... SHE IS SO TALENTED. Standing up and TAKING THE LOVE IN! YOU GO GIRL! Not her best but I just adore her. Her "not best" is heads and shoulders above everyone else. She ain't leavin' on no midnight train anytime soon. grade: A-
I ****love**** Simon telling Crystal to do what's comfortable to her, and I love Crystal's response. If she doesn't win this year it will be an utter crime.
I kinda like the backstage footage thing.
UH UH. Is Aaron stealing Kris Allen's breakthrough song? I'm thinking so. I decided last week I like the kid. I now officially predict an Aaron/Crystal top 2. We'll see how he does...
Aaron:
His eyebrows annoy me. But the vocals are there... and heavily borrowed from Kris Allen. He's really come into his own. Not my favorite but he's good. I think he had less pitchy moments than Crystal actually. He needs to thank Kris Allen a LOT for this week. grade: A
So there you have it for me. Surprisingly, I graded Aaron above Crystal who, to my ears, had a little trouble with her lower register this week. Crystal's still the best.
So which was the performance that made you want to pull your ears off, Lash?
Didi. I probably should have failed that performance in retrospect.
She did "What Becomes of the Broken Hearted", btw. I predict a Didi/Tim/Siobhan bottom 3.
The sad thing about her is that there's no middle ground with her -- she's either really good or really bad.
She did, however, look lovely tonight. Also, she showed some claws when Ryan kept pressing her to exploit her dead friend by saying over and over, "There's a reason why this song makes you so emotional, what is it? blah blah blah".
She refused to do so.
Good for her.
Sometimes, Ryan makes me sick.
I think I heard Didi's voice in a Walmart commercial yesterday and today.
Her voice is pretty recognizable.
I liked Lee and Mike best, tonight.
Then, Casey and Crystal - she's really got an ego.
I still like Didi and Siobhan, though.
What is Ryan's wife/girlfriend status?
And Didi's?
He just seems very protective of and interested in her.
Haven't read other comments, least fave to fave....
Tim - gah! He looked a little crazy. Oh yeah, and sounded that way, too.
Siobahn - what happened? She was doing so well -til tonight!
DiDi - off! I liked her costume, though.
Katie - I felt like she was a child trying to be a grown up.
Casey - same as usual from him - right here in the middle
Andrew - he did well, but it still wasn't a grand "AI moment" type of performance
Aaron - good job. He looks awkward onstage to me, but he makes good choices and sings well.
Lee- he was really,really good tonight!
Crystal - awesome choice, well done
Big Mike - love that song, love his rendition! I'm a fan.
This was certainly no surprise after last night.
Everybody loves when someone who deosn't win does well. I do anyway. Here's some interesting and fun things about Idol contestants past:
After becoming a fan of Megan Joy following her and Michael Sarver's WONDERFUL performance with Steve Martin on last year's finale,
I was especially glad to read about her current situation.
Thanks, LASH.
I really liked Megan.
And I really liked Didi.
At least she's going on the tour.
I only saw the last 4 minutes of the show, enough to see the reject.
I liked her, but she was kinda blowing it in competition.
I tried. I really tried, but there's just no one left that I find engaging and/or unpredictable enough to sit through the whole show.
I'll still be watching the results shows, though. Those are always fun.
I'll post my commentary after the show
Tonight is Lennon/McCartney songbook night. I am rushing a little so instead of witty comments in the beginning, lets get right down to it with…
Aaron Kelly - there is something about a 16 year old singing about a long and winding road that just doesn’t seem authentic. The singing was ok, if a little boring… And the last note was… off
And the judges… agree with me…
Katie Stevens – She’s doing “Let it Be” – wish she was doing a more uptempo song – she suffers from picking songs that are “older” than her. With that said, I think if sounds beautiful. She changed it up a little and it kinda worked for me. I did notice a few pitch issues.
And the judges – They agree that she is better tonight than ever.
Andrew Garcia – What did he do to this song? Um, ick! The vocals are ok, but there is something I don’t like, can’t put my finger on it.
And the judges – mostly agree –
Michael Lynche – I would never have done this song after David Cook blew it away a couple years ago. Big Mike’s version is ok, but it almost sounds… nasally. Not a good choice for him.
And the judges – liked it a lot more than I did (but they always do that with Mike) Simon actually said what I was thinking…
Crystal Bowersox – she rocked it as usual… Not my favorite song of hers but that’s more because of the song which I don’t care for than anything to do with her amazing vocals.
And the judges – love it as much as I do
Tim Urban – corny, corny corny. It is a safe song cause there isn’t much to it. This may be his last week. The song felt like it lasted 18 eternities,
And the judges – They liked it much more than I did, which surprises me.
Kasey James – He’s kind of a rocker so I don’t know if he will get it this week. He does, I guess, but still nothing really great. It’s a pretty song, but… I don’t know.. Blah As the song goes on, there were some “moments” but it didn’t feel all that cohesive to me
And the judges – liked it more than I did – much more
Siobhan Magnus – hope she does better after last week’s misstep. She looks great! She has such control. And I LOVE what she did with the song!
And the judges – Liked it as much as I did.
Lee DeWyze – interesting version of the song. I liked it! But then again, I love him! WOW!!! Bagpipes??? It felt like a concert! Best of the night!
And the judges – mostly agree – I agree that he doesn’t need gimmicks
Surprisingly good episode. No one sucked outright. By far the best episode this year.
BEST:
CASEY
TIM (!!!! Perfect for him)
KATIE (!!!!)
AARON (didn't get the judges going off on him)
LEE
Anyone who knows this season will be shocked that some of those did so well!
MICHAEL was just soooo overraught, dramatic and cheesy. I'm just not into it.
CRYSTAL did well but was outshone tonight.
SIOBHAN was okay, not great for me.
ANDREW was fun in a kind of Everly Brothers way, but was probably my least favorite.
I think it was the best night, so far.
I mostly attribute that to the fact that it's hard to really screw-up a Lennon-McCartney song because they're just so well written they can take a lot of damage and still sound great.
Andrew is a case in point.
I thought he was good until the chorus, then he just pusted too hard and got sort of campy.
Tim is another.
Such a forgiving song.
sigh
Tim's problem is that his voice is really, just above mediocre/average.
He hits the notes but they're not very interesting notes.
He's cute and nice, though, just the non-threatening type that teenage girls love.
Aaron's voice is way above average and even when he's boring, he's good.
He's 17.
Katie surprised me.
Her voice wasn't nasily tonight, a quality that my ears always take exception to, so I was happy.
The notes had that McCartney 'bell' quality, too.
Very nice, indeed.
Crystal's digery-doo(sp, I'm sure) arrangement was unusual and her normal 'wonderful', professional and fun.
Siohban's performance was brilliant, imo. Her voice was just so beautiful and every word was clear and excellent.
Crystal's song has always been difficult to understand, as well and she did a good job, too.
It's just that Siohban's voice was so clear.
Lovely, lovely singing.
My top 3 keep changing order:
'Eleanor Rigby' is a difficult song, as Beatle songs go, probably the hardest of the night.
It's very nature is dramatic because it's a story about hopelessness.
I thought Mike was exceptionally good, excellent, really.
I used to think his voice was very limited and he's shown me these last few weeks that it's not.
He's much better than Ruben, to me, MUCH better.
Lee's 'Hey, Jude' was so much fun. He was so into it and so excited and I thought the whole thing was perfect.
John would have loved it, especially the bagpipes.
Casey's song was so simple and so heartfelt and so beautifully done.
Nuff said other than that he's preitty incredible.
It was so nice to have the arrangements more playful and all of the wonderful instruments available, from the violins to the cello, to the surprises.
good, fun night
I did read the previous comments tonight, but here are mine, least favorite to most favorite as usual...
9. Katie. Sorry, I'm not a fan. I just can't get into her. I'll try and stay open minded, but her voice does NOT work for me.
8. Andrew. Simon really nailed it for me when he said that Andrew's performances are like when the guitarist in the wedding band gets to sing a song. I just don't see "artist" with him, despite his very spotty creativity.
7. Aaron. I'm usually surprised by how well he does, but this time he just blew it. It was like sad, too much Bud Lite karaoke.
6. Tim. I actually thought he sounded good, but the grinning and hair flipping makes me throw up a little. It *was* a pretty easy song.
5. Lee. I thought he looked (and sounded) drunk. I bet he and Taylor Hicks would throw one hecka fun party!
4. Siobahn. When did she turn 45? What a weird costume she chose! I thought her voice was beautiful, but it just wasn't right with that song. IMO, she should have dressed like a girl of today and kept the vocals real instead of so theatrical.
3. Mike. I don't mind if he steps into cheesy territory sometimes. I think he has a great singing style and makes excellent choices.
2. Crystal. So consistent. So good.
1. Casey. Wow, what a surprise! He's not a blonde robot afterall! He did what I thought Siobahn should have done.
I am totally shocked. Surely the judges will use the save??
<span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">And they did. This means 2 go next week though,</span></span>
Im not happy with this...
When they announced who it was, I started crying and I cried all the way through the song.
When the judges gave their verdict, I cried even harder.
Wow.
My reaction took me totally by surprise.
I had no idea that I cared that much!
I have to rethink that I don't vote often.
sigh
I liked Crystal, Katie, Tim, Aaron and Lee the best.
Siabhon, Mike, Casey and Andrew were not as good.
Elvis Week – Top 9 – Once again
This week two performers will go home.
Ryan once again makes a sexually ambiguous comment about his tongue. Eewwwww….
First up, Crystal! - I think this song was good, but a safe choice for her. I didn’t see anything new from her, but she was awesome as always. It was a good time but nothing I haven’t seen a billion times from her already.
And the judges - They loved it as I did. Maybe a little more than I did.
Did Andrew just pick his nose on live tv??? Gross!
Andrew – the nose-picker, he’s doing Hound Dog, And I was bored out of my mind.
And the judges – agree (well, Ellen liked it) –
Tim might actually do well with this song! Let’s see – For the first time maybe ever, I am totally impressed. This was his best ever!
And the judges – Were as surprised as I am that they liked it.
Lee – Adam wants him to loosen up, I hope he does. I think he rocked it! I’m very very impressed!
And the judges – Loved it too! I’m sooo glad!
Aaron – Why admit that the song is wrong for you right before you perform it??? It was ok, but not half as great as Lee tonight. But… it was better than Andrew.
And the judges – liked it too – again, it was good, just not great.
Siobhan – I have been waiting for Siobhan to meet Adam. This should be good! Side note – she looks a little like the Bride of Frankenstein with her hair tonight! She sings great, but something seemed… off… I am very disappointed in her, I thought she would shine tonight
And the judges – Agree with me – I think…
Michael – Sleepy but on ok vocal
And the judges – liked it more than me
Katie – She did a big band version. That is a bad sign. It will make her sound old, and it does…She does look good!
And the judges – Liked it much more than I did
Casey James – It started weird and it just didn’t pick up for me. Again, it was not bad, it just didn’t wow me.
And the judges – agree with me
I was so glad to see Adam again!
I adored him from the beginning last year and I thought that all of his comments were truthful and perceptive.
I was sorry that more of the kids didn't take his advice.
My top four, and the ones I lost track of voting for were:
Lee - enjoyed him, a lot. He's not a 'loose' kind of guy, though. You can only be who you are or you get lost.
Mike - I like his voice and personality and I guess I care about him and want him to succeed.
Nice pick of song, too.
Casey - not my favorite song or rendition but okay. I wish he'd work with his voice a little more.
Crystal - it's a shame that she's so good all of the time that we get a little bored with her.
I didn't vote for any of the others, but I liked Tim's song and performance.
I'm excited about seeing Adam perform tomorrow!
Maybe they'll make him the winner THIS year.
(Remember Steve Martin's comment last year?)
lol
Overall, I was much more pleased with the show than I thought I'd be.
Least favorite to most favorite...
9. Andrew. He just does the same thing with each song. Must be why he peaked so early.
8. Katie. Man, she's trying and trying but I just don't think she's there. Maybe she's the kind of performer who needs to take on a role in order to be compelling?
7. Aaron. This seemed like dress-up karaoke. He seems to be losing it.
6. Casey. He went back to his safe zone, and I kept expecting something cool to happen, but it never really did. He's good, but not amazing.
5. Siobahn. First half was weird and wrong, second half was awesome. Is she getting lost?
4. Tim. He did a really good job.
3. Lee. Ditto. I agree with the ones who say he's kinda dull. Must be nerves.
2. Mike. I can't believe what happened last week. I know I'm a devoted fan and all, but I can't help but think that the show's PTB manipulated that. He sounded excellent last night!
1. Crystal. I just think she's brilliant. Consistent, interesting, cute. Great job.
I think this group really needed Adam's kind of influence. Most of them can be a bit drab. The funny thing is, I really enjoyed Adam on the show, but I'm not such a fan of his post Idol work (like his album, videos, live apps). I hope he sings an Elvis song tonight!
Well, we're down 2 this week-- I'm glad the numbers are being whittled away!
Andrew was long past his time to leave, I think-- talk about peaking early!!-- but Katie I felt might have had a week or 2 more in her. Oh well.
That group voting for the worst one(s) tends to mess up the real progression of elimination, imo.
I can understand, dramatically, why they'd keep Mike to the last of the bottom 3, but it was cruel if he wasn't actually IN the bottom 3!
I missed the first half of the show and was afraid I'd missed Adam's song.
But I DIDN'T!
I liked seeing him again.
The special effects were a little overdone, since I couldn't find Adam a lot of the time, but oh, well.
The song was pretty right for his image, I thought.
I like his voice in the lower range but he was still good.
I kind of wish he didn't think that he needed huge productions or shocking explicit sexual stuff to sing interesting songs.
He's so beautiful, charismatic and talented that he really doesn't need gimicks, imo.
Based on the strength of her HIGH HOPES & HEARTBREAK cd, I just bought Brooke White's 2005 indie-release SONGS FROM THE ATTIC on Itunes.
Lash, you've inspired me to take out High Hopes & Heartbreak from the library. I will share my thoughts on it in this thread.
And last weekend, I finally gave Katharine McPhee's second album, "Unbroken", a second listen. It improved. Not tremendously, but undeniably. The problem is that it's pitched in the limbo between coffeehouse confessionals and easy-listening. Some of the songs are affecting, but I still prefer the perky R&B/pop of her self-titled first album.
Oh dear-- I hope you like it. This kinda stuff always make me nervous
Remember: Put on your 70s easy listening cap when listening! Am interested in your opinion for sure.
tonight's show:
Everyone did fine... at this point I'm just waiting for the Crystal vs. whomever finale...
I bet Mamasox' on-stage breakdown earned her a few million extra votes. LOVE that girl.
FYI, Brooke's pre-Idol indie CD has not been as right-away catchy for me as her post-Idol HH&H was. Her progression and growth as a songwriter is quite evident.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
I bet Mamasox' on-stage breakdown earned her a few million extra votes. LOVE that girl.
Yeah, pretty much.
sigh
I'd put the top 4 (without the Tim group vote, which I have no idea about) as Crystal, Lee, Siohban and Mike, with Crystal and Lee being the final two.
Casey lost me this week.
Least to most favorite...
7. Tim. Really pitchy. Didn't like it at all.
6. Siobahn. What is going on with her? It was a miss.
5. Casey. Blah bland.
4. Aaron. I thought he did a good job, but it felt like a kids show performance.
3. Lee. Sounded great, he seemed to have more personality.
2. Mike. I liked it a lot. I don't understand the judges sometimes.
1. Crystal. She was just sounding *amazing* THEN she cry-cracked at the end. I LOVE her!! She's on Kelly Clarkson/Fantasia level in my book.
Oh please get this over with...
LOL you already know how I feel
This is what I poseted on FB last night.
Inspirational Songs
Kasey James – Alicia Keys tells him to connect with the song a bit more… He started off a little raspy. And although his version is ok, it’s nothing I haven’t heard a million times before.
And the judges – agree with me…
Lee DeWyze – I do not know this song But he did a great job! It sounded contemporary. Great vocals! He really connected with it.
And the judges – Love it too!
Tim Urban – I want to like it… and some parts of it I do… I wish it wasn’t as pitchy as it was. It dcfinitely ended better than it started.
And the judges – agree
Aaron Kelly – boring – but not particularly inspiring
And the judges – liked it more than me
Siobham Magnus – wow! How pretty! She improved tonight.
And the judges – didn’t like it as much as I did
Michael Lynch – I normally love this song, but not his nasally version. This should have been epic and it just…wasn’t.
And the judges – are a mixed bag.
Crystal Bowersox – I don’t know how I feel about this. And she bawls?
And the judges – Loved it more than I did.
Whoa-- surely the highlight and most touching moment was the Annie Lennox sequence. Made the whole thing worth watching for me.
I agree, totally, LASH, wonderful song and presentation.
And I think that I found where Siohban should be in the music world, at the same time.
I don't know Annie Lennox's work, and I think I probably should because she's fantastic, but she and Siohban seem to have a lot in common!
Oh dear... Shady, I can't bear to think you're unfamiliar with Annie's work... let me pick some of my favorties from DIVA and MEDUSA, her two solo cds...
NO MORE \'I LOVE YOUS\' This is a cover but talk about making a song your own. When she hits the chorus at around the 4 minute mark, it brings tears to my eyes...
WHY Her first solo release, IIRC. This doesn't even touch on her collaborations with Dave Stewart as The Eurythmics.
But I'll do just that, with one song I think you would like by title alone:
THERE MUST BE AN ANGEL
First up is Lee! I always liked the song but he did a kickass job of it! I am totally impressed and I hope the judges love it as much as I did. It did start slightly pitchy.
And the judges… Liked it as much as me! YAY! And I did notice what Simon said about making some odd faces, I saw them too.
Michael does a girly song – again. Make him go away. Bluh. Please. Kill me now. Make it end. Can you guess that I despise him?
And the judges…OF course, love it more than me… LOL Simon called it girly too!
Casey – this was much better than he has been doing the last few weeks. I will saw that he almost “borrowed” Lee’s style tonight, but whatever, it worked for him, I guess.
And the judges…Loved it. I can see why. But I still don’t “love” him
Crystal – did her thing as she always does – and honestly, it wasn’t that good tonight. I don’t think the genre is right for her and the song just came off as weird.
And the judges – agree with me
Aaron – his voice is well suited to the song, I think. However, it came off as boring.
And the judges… liked it more than I do.
Siobhan – I didn’t expect her to go all out country but she did and it worked. I liked it!
And the judges… ALSO loved it!
Judging will be hard!
Least fave to most fave...
6. Lee. I love that song and the things he did to make it his own bugged me.
5. Siobahn. Started off lame, got great. It needs to be great all the way.
4. Casey. Really good.
3. Crystal. It seemed like a break from her usual greatness. Still, she's so good.
2. Mike. Loved it!
1. Aaron. He really sounded terrific. I've given him good reviews all season even though I'm not a huge fan, but he did a great job tonight.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Oh dear... Shady, I can't bear to think you're unfamiliar with Annie's work... let me pick some of my favorties from DIVA and MEDUSA, her two solo cds...
NO MORE \'I LOVE YOUS\' This is a cover but talk about making a song your own. When she hits the chorus at around the 4 minute mark, it brings tears to my eyes...
WHY Her first solo release, IIRC. This doesn't even touch on her collaborations with Dave Stewart as The Eurythmics.
But I'll do just that, with one song I think you would like by title alone: THERE MUST BE AN ANGEL The Eurythmics, that's where I got the familiar feeling from.
I don't know that much about them, but I remember her beautiful face and short hair from one of her videos.
I enjoyed the songs you gave me, LASH, thank-you.
I especially like 'When Tommorrow Comes', another song at the site.
That one reminded me of her Idol performance - not so much about her being beautiful and more about what she was singing.
The performance on Idol was universe class, you know. The angels would've been hushed while she sang that one.
Thank-you again, Michael.
About the show - I really enjoyed everyone.
I voted for Lee, Casey, Mike and Crystal.
Aaron sang to his mom.
I think I voted for him, too.
sigh
to Shady
I voted for Casey and Crystal.
It seems all the ballast is now gone, and we are down to the cream of the season 9 crop... from here on in, it will be sad to watch anyone get the boot...
The appropriate elimination happened. Wow, American Idol has become the new American Bandstand as far as getting current acts to come perform.
I was actually VERY SURPRISED by this elimination. Sorta.
Oh, btw, thank you Lash and Shady for your conversation about Annie Lenox. This morning I had a nice time watching a bunch of her videos on youtube.
Also, when I listened to Lee again, I liked it better. When I listened to Mike again, I still liked it a lot.
I adore Annie Lennox.
And Lash, I'm happy to report that I loved Brooke White's High Hopes and Heartbreak. It really is like some great lost 70s soft-rock album. It's hard to pick a favorite track, but I'm going to say "Little Bird." And it counts a lot in my book that Brooke's vocal stylings are both unforced and unaffected. Now I wish I hadn't skipped the AI season she was on.
YAY!!! I'm SO glad you liked it, RD! High praise for Brooke.
You skipped her season? You missed her making Idol history-- during "Every Breath You Take" she started on an off note and then STOPPED the performance and started again! She also "lost the lyric" and re-started "You Must Love Me" later on that season.
I remember her taking some criticism for this (not from me, I admired her for it) but when Simon was asked what he thought about it, he replied he would have done the same thing!
Didn't the judges give her a hard time the first time she did it and basically praised her the second time.
That's the one thing about Idol, especially THIS year, the judges have not been consistent.
Overall, this season's contestants have been decent but the sorta singer/songwriter types who have talent but don't bring that highly sought after "moment." A few of them have had a moment, but then somehow fizzled after. I don't understand why Mike has been in the bottom so much and I'm glad that Crystal is getting the praise she deserves. It almost doesn't matter what the judges say. Well, at least now that Ellen has warmed up, she's more fun/funny.
Note: Why does one of Frank Sinatra’s daughters look like Jennifer Coolidge? (“Bend and snap”)
Aaron – This week we are doing Frank Sinatra songs. And Aaron did a good enough job. It just wasn’t all that interesting and he didn’t really have the swagger to pull it off.
And the judges… Two loved it… Two agreed with me….
Casey – ugh. One note and I am bored. ZZZZZ. Middle part… still bored. Let me check… am I in a coma… no, just bored. Blah!
And the judges… agreed with me. It was horrible.
Hannibal Lechter is in the audience…
Crystal - First of all, she looks great. For the first time in awhile, I felt she showed a different side. It was a good performance. MUCH better than last week.
And the judges… Didn’t like it as much as me. But they did enjoy it.
Mike – I am so not looking forward to this. But… Get ready… he did well tonight. I knew he would. Doesn’t mean I like him, don’t get me wrong, but the timing of this week’s theme helped him (and hurt Casey, who I think will be sacrificed this week)
And the judges… Of course they raved about it…
Lee – I cannot wait to see what he does – He smiled! It was frickin’ hot!
And the judges… LOVED IT!
best: Lee, Mike, Aaron.
bye bye: Casey
I dislike Sinatra, I'm afraid.
I've always found him and his work, arrogant and self-indulgent.
And most of his songs forgetable.
Harry Jr. was adorable, though, and wonderfully knowledgeable about music!
Just delightful!
I'm a fan!
sigh
I so dislike Kara that Ellen, whom I love, almost doesn't outweigh my displeasure.
When Simon goes, I probably will, too.
Mike and Lee were best, I thought.
Where Sinatra's concerned, I DID like the different songs that the kids chose.
Fortunately, there was no ;my way' or San Franciso included.
I also like Sinatra in movies and on the Dean Martin Show.
Anyway, I have to adjust my final 4 to remove Siohban and add Casey.
I'm a little surprised he's still around.
The voting might have been partly a backlash against Kara's and Simon's comments to him on Tuesday.
They were pretty cruel.
I know that I voted extra for him because of their treadment of him.
And he was pretty darn good on Wednesday in the medley section.
Gaga was so long and so bad, I thought.
sigh
Harry Jr. sang a Beatle song!
Show tunes next week.
I wonder if the judges will tell the singers not to be theatrical?!
Loved the duets!
(Ellen's such a hoot!)
And I enjoyed the simplicity of the night.
Hard to choose.
sigh
I kept that simple, in honor of the night and just voted for one person this time.
I hate that I'm not even "into" this season so much anymore...
I thought Casey had the best solo, followed by Crystal then Lee, with Mike as the one I responded least to.
I enjoyed both duets but I thought Casey and Mike's duet was better than Lee and Crystal's.
According to DIALIDOL, <span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">Mike and Casey are bottom 2 with Casey having a better possibility to go home. Not counting the all-important "MARGIN OF ERROR".</span></span>
I missed last week's show, but watched all the performances on youtube after. It was appropriate that Aaron would go, and I actually didn't think Casey was all that bad.
Last night, I'm amongst the masses who think the duets were better than the individual performances. I simply like "Falling Slowly" better than the other song, and I really liked Lee and Crystal's version of it.
As for the competition, boy, it's tough! My least to most fave....
4. Lee. I just think he was terrible with that song. Bummer, because I really like him. Still, I'm sure he'll be safe.
3. Mike. Didn't do it for me this time.
2. Casey. So Eddie Veder! He has such a weird idea of song choice. I actually hope it's him that goes home, not Mike.
1. Crystal. A cool version of the song, but just not a contest-winning choice.
I like that there will be returning Idols tonight!
Tonight's results I thought were the right results.
I *loved* Fantasia's 1975-style soul song!!
Daughtry was good too. I skipped Bon Jovi's performance in favor of loading laundry.
Oh, well.
I liked Bon Jovi alright, but I can't remember much about the song now.
Fantasia was 'pitchy' I thought and Daughtry is so bland sounding to me.
I'll miss Mike.
I'm not really into any of the others anymore, I'm afraid.
I had to switch between Idol and the Top Model finale, so I missed some stuff.
I liked Fantasia, but I already have forgotten the song. I missed Bon Jovi. I watched Daughtry, but lost interest, so turned it to check on the models.
I don't understand why the public doesn't like Mike. He's had very good performances all season.
If Crystal doesn't win, I'll be very disappointed (like last season).
I enjoyed all 3 of them tonight.
I will admit Lee stepped it up a major notch.
Anyone's ballgame I think.
Mike's so much better than Ruban the results make me sad.
Hopefully, he'll make a great career out of this season anyway.
I think that Casey is the best musician of the group and along with his looks, that gets him by even when the judges down him.
The last group of 5 or so were a pretty charming and talented group of kids.
I hope they all have great careers ahead of them.
All of the top 10, really.
Lee has been my favorite all along...
I will continue to support him and he rocked it tonight...
Casey did a perfectly fine job with the songs he performed, but the songs were just not contest-winning-choices, IMO.
Crystal did a decent job on her first song and a great job on her second song.
Lee did a great job on his first song and a phenomonal job on his second song!
I still hope for Crystal to win, but Lee totally impressed me tonight!
Casey was okay.
Crystal was good, her second song was sung very well but the fact that the lyrics weren't changed over for a woman seemed really strange to me and kept bringing me out of the performance.
Lee was pretty wonderful the first song, I mean great.
His second song had me in tears.
I just cried almost all of the way through it.
Simon really knows how to pick songs and Lee can really sing them.
I've placed Lee and Crystal in the top 2 for quite awhile, but I honestly think for the first time, that Lee just might win this.
And he certainly deserves it.
Well, if DIALIDOL is to be believed, and I think it is, we can expect a finale between <span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">LEE and CRYSTAL.</span></span>
And further, if the rather HUGE amount of difference in voting trend is to be believed, and I think it is, we can expect to see <span class="spoiler_containter"><span class="spoiler_wording">Click Here For A Spoiler</span><span class="spoiler_text">LEE</span></span> win the whole thing.
Which, I feel, will be a repeat of last year's "2nd placed finisher outsells winner" scenario.
I won't swear to this, but I think this might be my final season of Idull. I've grown bored with it.
Unless something pretty amazing happens, I probably wont watch next year either.
I am, however, totally looking forward to Simon's X-FACTOR next fall.
I hear that on that show, the judges have 50% or so of the say in the outcome.
AI was lOOOOOOOOOOng overdue for either that or for a limit on voting or BOTH (like Dancing w/t Stars has).
Where will X-FACTOR be?
And, no matter who wins this year, I think that at least the top 5 will have many years in the music industry.
And, I know that Adam is doing fine, as is Daughtry so, I think Crystal and Lee with be winners, either way.
X-FACTOR will be right where we find AMERICAN IDOL... on FOX, just starting in fall 2011 and ending presumably before Idol starts in January 2012, if I understand correctly...
I'll be ready for a Simon fix by fall 2011!
Well, I have done all I feel comfortable doing... I have voted for Crystal 1 time for every dollar I expect to plunk down on her CD when it comes out.
Looking forward to tomorrow's finale, those are usually a lot of fun.
Yes, they are.
I liked both of them, tonight.
Lee wasn't as fantastic as last week, but Crystal's voice was kind of screechy.
So, it was a draw for me, so I didn't vote.
Chickened out, I guess.
Oh well, I wish them both well.
PS - Thanks for the info, MLLASH. I'm looking forward to it!
Unless I have am remembering incorrectly, wasn't last years finals much better? I mean, Hall & Oates and Michael McDonald.
At least Alanis was good..
I enjoyed it.
Highlights: Alice Cooper, Alanis Morrisette, Carrie Underwood, Brett Michaels & Casey James, Janet Jackson, Joe Cocker and bringing all the former Idols and Paula back for Simon's tribute (WHERE was David Cook?!?).
Lowlights: The last couple of minutes....
'Bye Idol, it's been fun. X-FACTOR, I await you with open arms!
I thought it was a great show, overall! I really liked Christina A. I was totally hoping Paula would join Janet onstage for "Nasty Boys." I was totally hoping Crystal would win.
Sigh.
MAJOR SHAKEUPS on the Judges panel for the upcoming season...
SImon was already gone, and now Ellen and Kara are too... and LOOK who is IN...! This is kinda big...
http://www.tmz.com/2010/07/29/american-idol-kara-dioguardi-judge-jennifer-lopez-steven-tyler-fired
I just finished listening to Katharine McPhee's holiday album, "Christmas Is the Time," and it's a marked improvement from "Unbroken." Whereas on "Unbroken" her vocals were almost timid, here she has plenty of moments where she lets loose like the innately soulful white girl that she is. My favorites would be the old-school R & B treatment of "Jingle Bells" (which should have been the opening track, instead of following the dull smooth-jazz treatment of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Xmas") and the almost gospel-flavored treatment of the title track.
Highly recommended.
It's back... and I think I've been sucked back in.
That Victoria girl may very well be my most fave audition EVER.
Steven Tyler and J-Lo are doing fine as judges; they really want to be there.
I'm not missing Simon at all, which surprises me.
I'm glad you decided to watch this year, MLLASH!
I couldn't help myself either.
sigh
The only girl I like is Haley, though.
Why do they have to have boy/girl early eliminations, anyway?
I really enjoy Tim, Brett, James, Scotty, Paul, Jacob and Casey.
That's 7.
I'd gladly lose one of the girl spots for that line-up of guys.
I'd especially like Paul, Jacob and Casey to go all the way, along with the other 4, too.
lol
Right now, I'd like Casey to win.
Yay, Shady! I'm glad you're watching too.
I've just decided I don't really care how relevant AI is to the music industry-- this is an industry in severe flux anyway. It no longer matters to me that the past two seasons' runner-ups (Adam and Crystal) have outsold the winners (Chris and Lee). What matters to me most is seeing new people that I like and think are talented. So yes, I'm here!
And this bunch IS talented. Wow.
My favorite two guys were Jacob ("A House is Not a Home") and Paul ("Maggie May"). But I actually thought all the guys were pretty good, except for poor Robbie ("Angel"). He deserves to get the boot.
I liked several of the girls too. Both Laurens, Thia and Ashthon (who reminds me so much of Nadia Turner).
I watched it this week with my wife!
Paul stood out for the guys, as well as the kid who did the Judas Priest song (good for him for being different).
For the girls, Pia really dominated the show. That was fantastic.
I've only ever glanced over the show in the past but I think this season has waaaay more talent than all the past ones.
I so dislike Clint, both in his singing and in his personality, that I'd like him to go first.
Pia was just okay for me although I'm sure she did well in the polling since she's very beatiful and was certainly on key.
I don't like the yelling kind of thingy much.
I'd pick Thia after Haley, but that's about it.
I get to see what happens in a few minutes!
I actually voted already.
I haven't usually started this early in the game.
I really love Stephen Taylor, especially when he joins in, which he did a lot of the time during the prevoting stages.
I can't recall EVER being MORE PLEASED with the finalists selected!!
The one and only thing I think I would change is, I would have preferred short dark-haired Lauren to Naima for wildcard selection.
I am SO VERY GLAD my girl Ashthon (Nadia Jr.) made it in!
As did my Haley.
Pia was better than I remembered, actually.
I'm pleased with the voted in finalists, too.
I love all 5 guys, as I've said before.
I'll really miss Brett, even though I suppose I knew that he wouldn't go too far.
He's just such a sweetie.
I sort of think that Naima is through on her story, some anyway, too.
I'm afraid I'd put quite a few through on their 'story' merits, alone.
I haven't been watching as regularly as usual this season. I like the new judges, though I do wish Steven would elaborate more. It seems he just wants to leave little poetic sound bites.
I kinda sorta know some of the contestants but not many since I haven't been as into it yet this year.
My least to most favorite performances tonight...
13. Karen -It must have been so intimidating for her to sing Selena in front of JLo. She looked beautiful, if a bit gaudy, but only sounded okay.
12. Paul - They kept saying that they hope America gets it. I didn't. I thought he was clownish and the song did nothing for me. Nice teeth.
11. Thia - Cute girl, pretty song. Dime. Dozen.
10. Lauren - this was karaoke. She sounded good, but just phoned it in. She has pretty bad taste in wardrobe. At least she's young.
9. Stefano - what a horrible dance beat added to that song! Hated it! At leasst his vocals overcame that mess.
8. Ashthon - I love a Diana Ross wanna-be. She did a good job, however, I STILL go to youtube to watch Vonzell's version of that song. So... there's that.
7. Haley - Randy's on crack! That version was beautiful! I found her very naturally sexy, which was uncomfortable, so I was relieved to go to the Idol website and see that she's 20 years old. Whew!
6. Naima - whoa.... I have a huge crush on this one! I think it was a mistake to dance so much, it affected her vocals, but she still did a great job. She's hot!
5. Scotty - He did a good job, I bet he can do better though.
4. Pia - Excellent. I guess I need to go find her previous performance. I hope she exhibits some more personality throughout the season. Oh also, Latoya did a striking rendition of this song in season 4, so... there's that.
3. Gah! I kinda want my top 3 to tie for 1st! Well... lessee.... I'll put Jacob here. It was a stunning version of the song, but I bet the recorded version will be better and I bet if he could have done it one more time live he could do it better. I could be wrong about that.
2. James - Wow, really good. Exciting. He has an Adam Lambert vibe that I approve of.
1. Casey - Duh, Winning! I love the personality and individuality and skill brought to the song.
Gah is right!
Casey is past amazing.
If you haven't seen him playing an instrument, you'll be blown away when you do!
I adore him, his singing, playing and personality.
sigh
James and Jacob are my ties with Casey for first place, too, Dean.
Best McCartney song rendition in a long while, James always seems perfect, to me.
Jacob was just fantastic tonight,
.
Usually, he's so incredible that he seems like an angel singing rather than a human.
Paul is phenomincal.
This song wasn't his best choice, I thought.
His Rod Stewart 'Maggie' was one of the best versions I've ever heard, besides and maybe including Stewart's.
Scotty is the perfect Country singer and I loved his performance tonight.
He's just a 17 year old darlin.
Haley was my favorite female singer, by FAR.
It seems that every year I love one of the quirky blondes with the different voice stuff going on.
sigh
I hope Haley makes it farther then the others have.
These are my top 6.
Everyone else is rather so-so, imo.
Pia's song was pretty, but aren't there more verses to it?
She sang the chorus over and over and over.
It's not written that way, is it?
ugh
Lauen was just okay, too.
She reminds me too much of other country singers that have been on Idol, I'm afraid.
I felt sorry for Naima, Ashton, Karen, Thia and Stephano, even though Thia's voice is usually better.
I felt bad when she started begging.
Just watched the DVR. I rather liked everyone, with two exceptions...
Karen and (sadly) Ashton. I predict one of them will be ousted.
Early prediction for winner: Scotty McCreery. He will win the whole thing.
He's not MY choice to win the whole thing, but he sounds like all those other mega-selling deep-voiced country guys and like they tell him, if it ain't broke don't fix it.
He's been the landslide favorite on dialidol.com 2 weeks running now.
Fans of James, Jacob and Pia can breathe easy as well, those 3 are also greenlighted by dialidol this week. Anyone else could be in danger.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Karen and (sadly) Ashton. I predict one of them will be ousted.
I was right.
Adam sounded GREAT! I now want to get his CD.
Still can't get into this show. Even carol has stopped watching it.
Saw a promo for Cowel's new show on fox last night, though. At least, think it was fox. X factor or something like that. Does marvel know he stole their name,
Karen: You DESTROYED one of my favorite songs, "Love Will Lead You Back" by the fab Taylor Dayne.
YOU GO HOME NOW. NOW!!!
She was pretty not good, yes.
But I don't think it works exactly that way.
We have to vote for the ones we
LIKE, I think.
For me that would be Casey, James, Jacob, Paul and Scotty.
Not in that order.
Results were as they should have been.
Her heartfelt plea was a bit heartbreaking. She sounded very nice tonight too.
I've seen the results show, so I know who goes, but I'll still post my standard least to most favorite....
12. Paul - I'm sorry he's sick or whatever, but he butchered a song that I like at lot. I DON'T "get" him.
11. Naima - despite the fact that I find her fantastic, her performance left me flat.
10. Thia - so dull, I don't even care if it was well done.
9. Karen - She keeps performing songs that are done by superstars, with whom she cannot compete
8. Jacob - weird song choice, good intentions, decent execution. I just feel like it could be better.
7.Haley - I thought she was good. I wish Randy would stop trying to put her in a box.
6. James - this is a personal thing, but I love that Bon Jovi song and I just don't think he did it justice. Still, it wasn't *bad*.
5. Pia - I just think of her as being really cruise ship/pageant -y. She did way better than I thought she would, though. I want to see/hear more.
4. Lauren - for some reason, I just liked it!
3. Casey - very entertaining if not the best vocal ever, but the heart is there.
2. Scotty - he seemed so competent. I don't even care about the song one bit. It was his effortless skill and comfort level up there.
1. Stefano - Sounded like a million bucks!
Yeah, I'm okay with Karen going. She's cute, but certainly not winner material.
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Karen: You DESTROYED one of my favorite songs, "Love Will Lead You Back" by the fab Taylor Dayne.
YOU GO HOME NOW. NOW!!!
lol!
How did you DO that?!!
You the man!
'scuse me, sorry, comin' through, sorry, just postwhorin, nothing to see here, shows over folks. Pardon me.
Gotta be honest, I wasn't looking forward to Motwon week. Even though I have great affection for that music, it so often feels like the ultimate karaoke night.
Well, tonight, there was some definite karaoke going on, and some definite star-aoke!
Least favorite to most...
Thia - oh baby girl, go on home and sing in front of grandma and your family and get better at it
Lauren - I like her, but this was karaoke
Haley - I loved all the growling, and her legs in that skirt with those shoes were killin' me! but it seemed kinda desperate and B list
Pia - oh sparkly princess, what a nice voice you have. how vapid you are
Stefano - he sucked all the soul and feeling out of that song, despite the clear vocals
Scotty - nothing wrong, I'm just not a big fan of that style
Paul - I got it this time, and it's a song that I love, so I was pleased
James - very entertaining, he seems like he took a class taught by Adam Lambert or something, and got an A-
Naima - overall really good stuff. I think Simon would call her self indulgent, but whenever he said that to a singer, I usually liked it
Casey - I just like his musical taste and style
Jacob - I think the last couple of weeks, I've mentioned how I feel like he could do better, and this was a performance where he did what he needed to do. He still got to play with it, but he used a more refined hand. I loved it!
Naima has taken performing risks like no other in AI history. The girl is grade-A ridonkulous.
For this reason alone I am totally rooting for her.
I'm afraid I've grown/am growing weary of Stefano, Pia, Thia, Haley and Jacob.
Oh yeah! I go to school with a girl who is good friends with Stefano!
Lash, I agree with your Growing Weary list, except for Jacob. Well... and Pia. I'm holding out for her to really do something cool.
I think that Pia is classically lovely and her dress was gorgeously understated but her voice doesn't do much for me, being good run of the mill, sort of.
I didn't vote for Pia, Stefano, Thia or Lauren.
Naima is fun as a performer but her voice is kind of blandish.
I voted for her this time because I think she's done, and grown, so much more than some of the others and deserves to be in the top 10.
Haley's earned it, too, imo.
Her voice is wonderful and she could grow into a great performer.
She'd be great with a band and/or partner.
She's definitely as good as some of the group singers we've seen guesting on the show over the years.
Gaga comes to mind and the gal in the group last week, were they something like 'Blackeyed Peas'?
I voted for her and my 5 guys, tooooo, James, Scotty, Paul, Casey and Jacob!
They, plus Haley, would be my final 6.
I'm glad Paul got you this time, Sketchy.
I'm SO loving Steve Tyler, the father of Liv Tyler, Arwen Evenstar!
(I know you guys knew that, I'M the one who just realized it.)
Ramsey dissed Stefano's mom's cooking.
lol
Hmmm.... not sure how I feel about this...
On the one hand, I'm not that into Casey... on the other hand, I like a happy ending... and on my third hand, I think the judge's save is a waste of America's time (since no one it has been used on has ever lasted more than 2 more weeks)...
All things considered, I think I'm OK with this.
Ummm.
I'm glad you're okay with it MLLASH.
I <3 Casey and think he adds some unique performances and 'starness' to the proceedings.
I'm all for keeping the interesting contenders more than just keeping the ones who can win.
The reason being that I believe uniqueness is more rare than singing talent and is far less likely to find nurturing in the 'real' world.
Whether he gets voted off soon, he STILL gets to go on tour and he still gets to be mentored by greats in the business, which can only help him, his career and those of us who enjoy him.
So, in other words, I'm a happy camper.
Thank you, I think it is very important that I be okay with these things.
And I am glad you are a happy camper.
Sadly for reals, I'm getting a bit of Idol boredom or burnout setting in. I hate that, but there it is.
I'm convinced Scotty McCreery is going to win. No female or anyone other than a cute white guy will ever win Idol again until they start limiting the amount of votes one can make.
loved that casey was saved and his reaction to the whole thing...and someone really needs to get Jacob to do Slyvester's "You Make Me Feel Mighty Real" and just let him diva it out (without screeching)
Yeah, I don't get the voting idea, really never have.
I mean, I want people to be able to vote but it seems skrewy sometimes.
(Like when you said, 'She's got to GO!' and she DID!
lol
That's why I try not to care about the actual winner but more about the best of the kids getting a chance at the tour.
Which has more or less, happened.
You know, Adam didn't need to win the finale.
He was clearly the star from the moment he auditioned.
Anyway, I'm sorry you're bored.
Although, a show might seem boring to you anyway, since you and your life are so 'gung-ho' and filled with friends and stuff.
My least to most favorite...
Paul - I'm back to not getting it with him
Thia - sleepy and not even close to emotional
Naima - tacky cruise ship interpretation of not one of Elton's best anyway
Scotty - he did fine, I'm just not a big fan, and by the end of the show, I'd forgotten about him
Stefano - he seems so stiff and uncomfortable, but he still sings well
Jacob - too restrained, yet still over the top. How'd he do that? I suppose I was disappointed because I really want to like his performances.
Pia - no surprise - a well done ballad
Haley - she did a great job, still comes across as a bit desperate, not confident
Casey - a very good, solid job
James - very entertaining as usual
Lauren - perfect vocal for the song and well delivered
The whole Casey thing last week just seemed SO staged/contrived. I just don't trust the producers of the show. I was glad he was saved, though.
I'm not bored because I look forward to what Jacob, James and Casey will do each week. Lauren surprised me tonight!
I hope it keeps coming.
If Thia doesn't go home this week I quit!!!
Whew-- you're safe!
*choke* Sorry, Dean, but I totes j'adored Naima's fearlessness and will miss it. I still say she was the most original, ridonkulous AI finalist ever. *weary sigh*
Thia, I shan't miss you and your sleepy baladeering much, I'm afraid.
I enjoyed Scotty for the first time since making fun of his constant early usage of "babylockthemdoorsandturnthelightsdownlow"...
I love the song "I Told You So" (although in general, I hold Randy Travis and his closeted, jealous-queen self in contempt) and thought he and Lauren sounded great together on it!
I wonder if Steven Tyler meant it when he said that the 4 guys could open for Aerosmith on their next tour?
I'm sorry, but I thought that last 'Rio' song, especially the two singers, was just terrible.
The beat was okay but talk about 'pitchie' singing!
gads
I would totally buy one or two Naima Reggae songs a year on itunes (and if ther were Reggae versions of non-Reggae songs, probably more).
This is a pretty talented bunch! Most of them are really very good (some I don't like that much like Stefano and the high-pitched gospel kid from CA).
I've never been a huge fan of American Idol but this season seems much better to me for some reason. The judges attitudes, the talent, etc. It almost feels more focused on the singing and the 'fun' aspect than the spectacule of it all, which is a good thing.
My favorites, Pia and Paul, remains awesome!
'Rio' is a pixar story; I saw a trailer this evening while watching Generator Rex.
So, I'm okay with the song, now.
Wednesday night was the first time that I had major trouble voting, so I only voted a couple of times for Casey and Haley.
The voting went pretty much like I would have liked anyway, except I would have put Stefano in Paul's place.
The kids seem more relaxed now, even the two who lost this week, since all 11 get to go on the tour this summer.
I'm glad because I like them all.
I think that the whole top 13 should go, though.
I still like them all, pretty much.
Casey still delights me most, and I love CCR.
James did an absolutely lovely version of George's song, too. Better than George, I thought.
My top 6 remain the same.
I was very disappointed by this week's vote-off.
Same here .... Pia looks and sounds like an idol in my opinion. I was sure she'd make it into the top two. Oh well, that's showbiz!
My prediction: Lauren will be the next American Idol and will go on to surpass even Kelly Clarkson!
YOU GO GIRL!!!!
(I can't pull that off, can I? Too white? Too male???)
Too straight!
Originally posted by MLLASH:
Too straight!
I think that both of the Latinas and Stephano will have long and very fruitful singing careers.
Pia is beautiful but I don't think that she has any depth of training, yet.
She definitely needs movement and songs that are more than ballads.
Stephano, as well.
I think that they'll both get lots more experience and connections during the tour, too.
J-Lo loves them, as do the other judges and producers, so they've gotten what they need to start in the business, for sure.
ALL of these kids are great, so I think that even if they don't win the Idol title, they'll be fine.
I'm just trying to vote for one or two.
I voted for all of my favorites in the beginning, but every one of them is 'my favorite' at this stage.
Mostly.
I don't get the love the judges fealt for Paul. He was terrible in my opinion ... totally sang off key the whole time.
???Stephano??? sounded like he was still rehersing.
Haley really did sound karaoke-ish. I was very disappointed in her.
There's your bottom 3 for tomorrow night folks!
Scotty - I couldn't be less interested in a singer/song/performance
Lauren - dull song, dull performance. She has pretty eyes
Casey - I like a touch of crazy, but the performance just didn't have the impact on which the crazy could hang. Kissing JLo was the best part
Stefano - it was a fairly polished performance, including a good vocal, but I never sensed a "moment"
James - I love Muse and was probably too harsh a judge, but I didn't like the way he messed with the song
Jacob - yes, the emotion and power was there, but somehow it felt too forced, I still liked it better than most
Haley - solid performance and she did put in some distinction
I'm afraid I've grown bored with this as well as Survivor. I haven't even bothered to watch last night's performances.
Scotty's win is already in the bag, I think. Just don't really care anymore.
Looking forward to THE VOICE on NBC, though.
Ohhhh.
I was recording it but I got home just as Casey performed, which I watched.
He's the only one I've watched so far this week.
His silliness makes me laugh and dance, so I <3 him best.
Stefano(?) went home last night.
Can't say I was surprised though .... but his future is practically ensured so long as there are teeny-boppers to buy his imminent records.
He'll have the Latino market, too, as will Pia and probably Karen.
Scotty and Lauren can/will do Country.
Jacob is a shoe in for Gospel.
I see Paul, Naima and Haley doing the stage and possibly movies.
Who's left?
I'm hoping the judges and producers will help James out, if he doesn't win, especially Steven.
If he'll listen to them.
Thia, as well as some of the others, could do Disney and other animated stuff or TOON kiddie shows.
Casey will always do jazz, records and clubs.
I'd love to see him doing other things as well.
He's fun and is prefect for shows.
You guys probably know all of this stuff already, but you're who I talk to, so you're stuck reading it, unless you just skip over.
sigh
<3 ya!
I may not be watching but I am still reading!
James was the only one I liked last night. Well, I liked Haley too. It's not that anyone was bad, but you could also tell by the audience reactions that there were not many of the coveted "moments" going on.
I failed to vote.
Casey, Casey, Casey.
:boohoo:
If I wasn't so humble, I'd say he lost because I couldn't be bothered to vote Wednesday.
sigh
YES!!! I am another step closer to my prediction that Lauren will take the title of American Idol this season!
A female is waaaay overdue but my prediction is she will be second to Scotty, with James third.
I guess I'm giving a backwards review from normal; my most favorite to least....
I keep liking Haley more and more. I agree with the judges that singing an unreleased Gaga song might not have been the brightest idea for her. In fact, I was thinking she could have done Gaga's "Speechless" and made a bigger impact. However, I thought she was great. THEN, she came out and sang "House of the Rising Sun" and she was just totally incredible! LOVE! (edit- I also kinda thought about Beyonce's "Halo" as a good choice for Haley for some reason. IDK.)
Scotty totally impressed me I think for the first time. His rockin' country song was cool and "Always On My Mind" (one of my all time favorites ever) was just perfect.
I didn't care for James' first song. I thought his screeching was off. I loved his super emotional ballad. Fine.... I admit it! I cried! (It doesn't really take *that* much, though.)
Lauren did a great job on her rockin' country song, too. She did okay (IMO) on "Unchained Melody." She's so cute!
Jacob made a mess of "No Air." Sorry, didn't like it at all. But I do think he redeemed himself with "Love Hurts." (I want to hear a full version of Sheryl Crow unplugged on that song!) I really like when an R&B singer adds extra soul and church to mainstream pop songs, so I wish he would have done that more often this season. I think he'll be out tomorrow, which is a bummer. I really like what he serves.
One step closer to an accurate prediction. GO LAUREN!!!
I AM ON FIRE BABY!!!!!!!!
My girl now has a 1 in 3 chance of taking home the gold. GO LAUREN, GO LAUREN, GO LAUREN!!!
... maybe I'm secretly a decendant of the Oracle Of Delphi.
Another dissapointing season...the 2 dullest are in the finale? Should have been Pia, James, Haley, and Jacob. Worst year since Scary Underwear won. I think the big winners are Steven Tyler and F.A. Lopez.
Originally posted by LegionFan223:
F.A. Lopez.
Wow, and I thought I was mean!
But I love it.
So I now have a 50/50 chance at being correct about predicting the winner of this year's American Idol.
Well, it's off the races! Mmmmmm.... maybe I'll just wait until Wednesday night and see what happens, just to make sure!
I didn't think the season was actually 'dull'.
A lot of it was fun!
More recently, I really loved the duet with James and Scotty about joining a band and Haley's 'House of the Rising Sun'.
Scotty will be the winner, imo.
MLLASH was right and who ever called it practically from the beginning, which ever net group.
I lost interest when I realize it was SOOOOOO predictable.
Anyway, I'm glad your having fun, fk.
OH MAN! I was sooooooooooooo CLOSE!
Oh well, better luck next year! LOL
Congrats to Scottie!!! I'm sure both he and Lauren are set in the music industry now.
The only part of this season I saw was a few minutes tonight. I witnessed the last few moments of Tom Jones (huh?) and the Lady Gaga "thing"...very icky in itself, but particularly after just meeting the school choral teachers of the teenage finalists.
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