The top 9 finalists had the chance to visit with Ryan in the radio studio this week as he counted down the Top 40 hits of the week. The top 40 is tabulated by combining the songs with the most radio airplay with the songs with the most sales into one comprehensive chart. Sales and Airplay is what it's all about in the music business and that's what these finalists hope to achieve. Here's how they sound trying to sing the songs that are currently the top selling downloads at itunes:
Usher hit the top 10 in 2006 with Caught Up from his top selling multi-platinum album, Confessions. Anoop Desai wants so much to be in the same league as Usher, but this performance showed very clearly that he is not. While he has demonstrated his ability to sing some nice and soulful vocals, his stage presence is simply not up to par.
I'm not really sure how Bob Marley's Turn Your Lights Down Low qualified as a top download, but Meagan Joy performed it somehow. It was more of the same bouncy quirky essence that she delivers every week. If you are a fan you will like it, but if not, you are ready to see her go.
Rascal Flatts had a huge #1 Country Hit in 2006 with What Hurts The Most. Danny Gokey has already shown us that his limited vocals are perfect for butchering a Carrie Underwood song and tonight he has done the same to Rascal Flatts. Every note was strained, weak and so much worse than the original.
It was 1995 when No Doubt dominated the airwaves with Don't Speak. Alison Iraheta made her big pink hair even bigger as she played her guitar in accompaniment to her rocking vocals. She did a great job adding her raspy edge to this great song. Very well done.
In 1978 Billy Joel won the Grammy for both Record of the Year and Song of the Year for Just The Way You Are after it peaked at #3 on the Billboard HOT 100. (I'm really not understanding the theme this week) Scott MacIntyre sounded great with this piano anthem. His vocals were very strong and he continued with his signature warmth and sincerity. Last week he allowed his people to dress him in pink pants and tonight he let them give him a big moussed up 80's hairstyle. It's kinda funny, but he needs no gimmick to shine - his genuine talent is all he needs.
You Found Me by The Fray is currently #23 on the itunes Top Songs chart. Matt Giraud seems, like me, to have taken a more literal interpretation of this week's theme as he played his piano in the middle of the audience and performed this hit. This week he didn't make a fool of himself as much as he did last week, but with only his vocals to consider, they just weren't that good. Boring and bland is all that can be said.
In 2002 Celine Dion released I Surrender on her album A New Day Has Come. In addition to showing us a new hair style every week, Lil Rounds makes a genuine effort to give us something different every week. Tonight it was a straight up adult contemporary power ballad. Her vocals are far superior to most of the other finalists, but it would have been nice if she had served us a current hot selling hip hop song. We know she can do it, but she's not illustrating it every week. I don't ever want to hear her sing Celine Dion again.
Wild Cherry became a one hit wonder after spending three weeks at #1 in 1976 with Play That Funky Music. Adam Lambert decided to try and take this classic oldie and make it sound current and fresh. Every week he has shown us that he is not going to play it safe and tonight this rendition was captivating and energizing. He leaves us looking forward to what unexpected and exciting thing he's going to do next week.
Bill Withers peaked at #3 in 1971 with Ain't No Sunshine. Kris Allen put down the guitar, sat at the piano and showed that he's so much more than a pretty face. This completely different arrangement would make a video that is worth both watching and listening to. An excellent presentation.
So this Top itunes downloads theme ended up being an unfocused sloppy mess, but there were still some good performances that came out of it. My top five continues to be Adam Lambert, Lil Rounds, Scott MacIntyre, Kris Allen and Allison Iraheta. The others are simply failing to impress. While Danny Gokey is an over-rated tragedy on stage I'm going to stop predicting that he will end up in the bottom three. That leaves my prediction being Anoop Desai, Meagan Joy and Matt Giraud. I think Anoop will be going home.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Thursday, March 26, 2009
The Results - Motown
For the second week in a row, Season One Miss American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson's new album, All I Ever Wanted, is the best selling album of the week and at #1 on the Billboard 200 albums chart. Meanwhile, the Supreme Miss American, Season Four winner Carrie Underwood, leaps into the top 10 this week at #9 with the duet she performed on the show last week with Randy Travis, I Told You So.
The Top 10 finalists opened the show with a medley of Motown hits. Basically, the rest of the finalists served as background singers for Lil Rounds and Adam Lambert who did a great job as usual.
Hoping to enjoy the same "American Idol Bump" as Kelly and Carrie, Season Two Miss American Idol winner, Ruben Studdard came out of hiding to perform his new single. He's still that same very talented velvet teddy bear that we remember, it's that he's struggling to find that perfect catchy song that can bring him back to the charts. This was OK. We'll have to wait and see if this is the bump that he's looking for....
Adam Lambert is safe, but Matt Giraud learned that he is the first person in the bottom three. Kris Allen and Lil Rounds are safe and Michael Sarver had to join Matt in the bottom three.
Not only has Smokey Robinson written 4000 songs and charted 38 songs on the Billboard HOT 100, but he's also had a huge hit song written about him! British pop group, ABC, took When Smokey Sings to the top 5 in 1987. Smokey's voice is smooth and silky and he showed off that he's still got it on a duet with Joss Stone tonight on the American Idol stage.
Allison Iraheta, Anoop Desai, Danny Gokey and Megan Joy are all safe leaving the wonderful Scott MacIntyre to round out the bottom three. Thankfully Scott did not need to join Michael and Matt for long as he was quickly sent back to safety.
Another Motown legend took the American Idol stage to sing a medley of his many hits. Stevie Wonder hit the Billboard HOT 100 46 times including ten #1 smash hit chart toppers. He included My Cherie Amour, Superstition and Overjoyed in this entertaining musical revue.
Ryan then revealed that Matt Giraud is safe leaving Michael Sarver to sing for his life. He did is best to show that he ain't to proud to beg for the love of the judges, but it didn't work - he's going home.
This week I only got one of my three predictions correct, but it was the one who is being sent home. I'm not surprised that Matt's embarrassing showing last night landed him in the bottom three, but it makes no sense at all that Scott was there. I'll just have to call in more for Scott next week!
The Top 10 finalists opened the show with a medley of Motown hits. Basically, the rest of the finalists served as background singers for Lil Rounds and Adam Lambert who did a great job as usual.
Hoping to enjoy the same "American Idol Bump" as Kelly and Carrie, Season Two Miss American Idol winner, Ruben Studdard came out of hiding to perform his new single. He's still that same very talented velvet teddy bear that we remember, it's that he's struggling to find that perfect catchy song that can bring him back to the charts. This was OK. We'll have to wait and see if this is the bump that he's looking for....
Adam Lambert is safe, but Matt Giraud learned that he is the first person in the bottom three. Kris Allen and Lil Rounds are safe and Michael Sarver had to join Matt in the bottom three.
Not only has Smokey Robinson written 4000 songs and charted 38 songs on the Billboard HOT 100, but he's also had a huge hit song written about him! British pop group, ABC, took When Smokey Sings to the top 5 in 1987. Smokey's voice is smooth and silky and he showed off that he's still got it on a duet with Joss Stone tonight on the American Idol stage.
Allison Iraheta, Anoop Desai, Danny Gokey and Megan Joy are all safe leaving the wonderful Scott MacIntyre to round out the bottom three. Thankfully Scott did not need to join Michael and Matt for long as he was quickly sent back to safety.
Another Motown legend took the American Idol stage to sing a medley of his many hits. Stevie Wonder hit the Billboard HOT 100 46 times including ten #1 smash hit chart toppers. He included My Cherie Amour, Superstition and Overjoyed in this entertaining musical revue.
Ryan then revealed that Matt Giraud is safe leaving Michael Sarver to sing for his life. He did is best to show that he ain't to proud to beg for the love of the judges, but it didn't work - he's going home.
This week I only got one of my three predictions correct, but it was the one who is being sent home. I'm not surprised that Matt's embarrassing showing last night landed him in the bottom three, but it makes no sense at all that Scott was there. I'll just have to call in more for Scott next week!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
The Top 10 sing Motown
To celebrate 50 years of the biggest hits of all time, the top 10 finalists made a trip to Hitsville USA where much of the Motown music catalog was recorded. They had the chance to meet Motown founder, Berry Gordy, and work with #1 hit maker Smokey Robinson.
In 1973 Marvin Gaye spent two weeks at #1 with Let's Get It On. Matt Giraud started out at the piano with his lackluster rendition of the song. After he stepped away from the piano he was completely overindulgent in his belief that he can can put more emphasis on shaking hands with the crowd than showing off that he can sing. His voice is bland and uninteresting and it was embarrassing when he got in the judges faces and sang directly to them.
In 1965 Marvin Gaye reached #6 with How Sweet It Is To Loved By You. Ten years later James Taylor did it one better by peaking at #5 with his cover. Kris Allen stood center stage with his guitar and did his best to make the song his own. His vocals are good, but still the best thing he has going for him is his looks. He's perfect for videos, but without the visual there's no reason to listen.
In 1966 Diana Ross and the Supremes spent two weeks at #1 with You Can't Hurry Love. Scott MacIntyre stayed true to himself and performed his rendition from the comfort of his piano. He added a new and different arrangement to this classic hit with some jazzy energy coupled with the background singers on stage with him. No matter what he does, Scott's genuine love of music and talent shines through and tonight was no exception.
In 1968 Stevie Wonder spent two weeks at #2 with For Once In My Life. Megan Joy (who has dropped her last name) also tried to bring some jazzy style to her rendition of the song. She definitely leaves her personal stamp on everything, but it isn't always something that keeps you coming back for more. This performance was all over the place and not in a good way.
In 1965 Smokey Robinson and the Miracles peaked at #16 with Ooo Baby Baby. Thirteen years later Linda Ronstadt bested that by hitting #7. Anoop Desai proved that he has the vocal ability to rise to the challenge and show he can tackle this extremely difficult song to bring to life. While he glided effortlessly into a smooth falsetto, he is still struggling to find some stage presence. He's either cartoonish or completely boring like he was tonight.
In 1966 The Tempations hit #13 with Ain't Too Proud To Beg. Michael Sarver took this over the top high energy song and successfully drained the life out of it. His dance moves were sorely lacking and his vocals were nothing to speak of. All he can do now is not be too proud to beg for votes.
In 1963 Martha Reeves and the Vandellas hit #4 with Heat Wave. Twelve years later Linda Ronstadt had to settle for peaking at #5. Lil Rounds has proven week after week that she has a wonderful voice. Tonight she got up there in a fabulous frock with flouncy fringe and honored the legendary Motown history with a sincere tribute. In doing so, she sacrificed the chance to elevate the song and make it her own. It could have been so much more, but it was still one of the best.
In 1965 Smokey Robinson and Miracles hit #16 with The Tracks of My Tears. Eleven years later Linda Ronstadt's cover version only hit #25. Adam Lambert rose all the way to the top of any and all charts with his exceptional version of this tender ballad. It was a subtle performance, yet electrifying at the same time. His vocal range simply shined through with this unique and tender arrangement. He's proving himself as a real star.
In 1966 The Temptations only hit #29 with Get Ready. You may be more familiar with the version by Rare Earth that hit #4 in 1970. Danny Gokey's version is one that was instantly forgettable. His amateurish screams coupled with his stumbling dance moves were only a few parts of this mess. If only he had spent the entire performance blending in with the back-up singers because that was the best part.
In 1972 The Temptations spent one week at #1 with Papa Was A Rolling Stone. Allison Iraheta came here tonight to show that she did not belong in the bottom three last week. She used her throaty voice to leave her mark on this dynamic song and it was pure entertainment. A great effort that should keep her safe for another week.
My prediction for the bottom three is picking up where I left off last week: Danny Gokey and Michael Sarver should take the first two positions. Are fans still jumping on the bandwagon for Danny? I hope not. The boys should be joined in the bottom three by Megan Joy. My prediction for the finalist who will be going home is Michael Sarver.
In 1973 Marvin Gaye spent two weeks at #1 with Let's Get It On. Matt Giraud started out at the piano with his lackluster rendition of the song. After he stepped away from the piano he was completely overindulgent in his belief that he can can put more emphasis on shaking hands with the crowd than showing off that he can sing. His voice is bland and uninteresting and it was embarrassing when he got in the judges faces and sang directly to them.
In 1965 Marvin Gaye reached #6 with How Sweet It Is To Loved By You. Ten years later James Taylor did it one better by peaking at #5 with his cover. Kris Allen stood center stage with his guitar and did his best to make the song his own. His vocals are good, but still the best thing he has going for him is his looks. He's perfect for videos, but without the visual there's no reason to listen.
In 1966 Diana Ross and the Supremes spent two weeks at #1 with You Can't Hurry Love. Scott MacIntyre stayed true to himself and performed his rendition from the comfort of his piano. He added a new and different arrangement to this classic hit with some jazzy energy coupled with the background singers on stage with him. No matter what he does, Scott's genuine love of music and talent shines through and tonight was no exception.
In 1968 Stevie Wonder spent two weeks at #2 with For Once In My Life. Megan Joy (who has dropped her last name) also tried to bring some jazzy style to her rendition of the song. She definitely leaves her personal stamp on everything, but it isn't always something that keeps you coming back for more. This performance was all over the place and not in a good way.
In 1965 Smokey Robinson and the Miracles peaked at #16 with Ooo Baby Baby. Thirteen years later Linda Ronstadt bested that by hitting #7. Anoop Desai proved that he has the vocal ability to rise to the challenge and show he can tackle this extremely difficult song to bring to life. While he glided effortlessly into a smooth falsetto, he is still struggling to find some stage presence. He's either cartoonish or completely boring like he was tonight.
In 1966 The Tempations hit #13 with Ain't Too Proud To Beg. Michael Sarver took this over the top high energy song and successfully drained the life out of it. His dance moves were sorely lacking and his vocals were nothing to speak of. All he can do now is not be too proud to beg for votes.
In 1963 Martha Reeves and the Vandellas hit #4 with Heat Wave. Twelve years later Linda Ronstadt had to settle for peaking at #5. Lil Rounds has proven week after week that she has a wonderful voice. Tonight she got up there in a fabulous frock with flouncy fringe and honored the legendary Motown history with a sincere tribute. In doing so, she sacrificed the chance to elevate the song and make it her own. It could have been so much more, but it was still one of the best.
In 1965 Smokey Robinson and Miracles hit #16 with The Tracks of My Tears. Eleven years later Linda Ronstadt's cover version only hit #25. Adam Lambert rose all the way to the top of any and all charts with his exceptional version of this tender ballad. It was a subtle performance, yet electrifying at the same time. His vocal range simply shined through with this unique and tender arrangement. He's proving himself as a real star.
In 1966 The Temptations only hit #29 with Get Ready. You may be more familiar with the version by Rare Earth that hit #4 in 1970. Danny Gokey's version is one that was instantly forgettable. His amateurish screams coupled with his stumbling dance moves were only a few parts of this mess. If only he had spent the entire performance blending in with the back-up singers because that was the best part.
In 1972 The Temptations spent one week at #1 with Papa Was A Rolling Stone. Allison Iraheta came here tonight to show that she did not belong in the bottom three last week. She used her throaty voice to leave her mark on this dynamic song and it was pure entertainment. A great effort that should keep her safe for another week.
My prediction for the bottom three is picking up where I left off last week: Danny Gokey and Michael Sarver should take the first two positions. Are fans still jumping on the bandwagon for Danny? I hope not. The boys should be joined in the bottom three by Megan Joy. My prediction for the finalist who will be going home is Michael Sarver.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
The Results - Grand Ole Opry
On last week's results show The Season One Miss American Idol, Kelly Clarkson, sang her recent #1 smash, My Life Would Suck Without You. This week she is topping the Billboard album chart with her latest release, All I Ever Wanted with sales of 255,000. Doesn't suck so much at all.
Tonight's group performance of Trouble was a fun burst of high energy. For the most part the Scott MacIntyre choreography issue was resolved by having him sit at the piano while the others danced around him. It turned out to be a very good choice for the song.
Only the top 10 finalists make it to go on the American Idol Summer tour. Danny Gokey, Lil Rounds, Anoop Desai all learned that they are going to be part of the Live Concert festivities while Allison Iraheta and Michael Sarver learned that they are the first two in the bottom three.
Brad Paisley is another country music legend who is a member of the Grand Ole Opry. He sure looked great up there on the American Idol stage wearing his tight jeans, boots and cowboy hat as he sang his latest single, Then. Every week when I go dancing at Charlie's I'm surrounded by a dance floor full of Brad Paisleys. I'm not kidding, you gotta go and check out the handsome crowd over there!
Scott MacIntyre, Meagan Joy Corkery, Matt Giraud, Kris Allen and Adam Lambert are all going on tour this summer. That left Alexis Grace to round out the bottom three. It didn't remain three for long as Allison Iraheta was sent back to safety.
The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season Four winner, Carrie Underwood has already had four #1 singles on the Billboard HOT Country chart from her album, Carnival Ride. The fifth single is a cover of a song that Randy Travis had a hit with in 1988 called, I Told You So. The album version is Carrie singing it solo, but tonight Carrie and Randy got together to sing it live for the first time as a duet. This performance was nothing short of spectacular. Carrie just keeps getting better and better. This year's finalists have a lot to live up to.
Turns out that Michael Sarver is safe and I got my prediction right that Alexis Grace would be the lowest vote getter. She sang her clunky version of Jolene one more time while the judges considered if they were going to use their Judges Save. They did not.
This week I got two out of my three predictions correct as well as my prediction for who would be going home. And I have to admit I'm a little surprised. Can't wait to see what happens next week!
Tonight's group performance of Trouble was a fun burst of high energy. For the most part the Scott MacIntyre choreography issue was resolved by having him sit at the piano while the others danced around him. It turned out to be a very good choice for the song.
Only the top 10 finalists make it to go on the American Idol Summer tour. Danny Gokey, Lil Rounds, Anoop Desai all learned that they are going to be part of the Live Concert festivities while Allison Iraheta and Michael Sarver learned that they are the first two in the bottom three.
Brad Paisley is another country music legend who is a member of the Grand Ole Opry. He sure looked great up there on the American Idol stage wearing his tight jeans, boots and cowboy hat as he sang his latest single, Then. Every week when I go dancing at Charlie's I'm surrounded by a dance floor full of Brad Paisleys. I'm not kidding, you gotta go and check out the handsome crowd over there!
Scott MacIntyre, Meagan Joy Corkery, Matt Giraud, Kris Allen and Adam Lambert are all going on tour this summer. That left Alexis Grace to round out the bottom three. It didn't remain three for long as Allison Iraheta was sent back to safety.
The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season Four winner, Carrie Underwood has already had four #1 singles on the Billboard HOT Country chart from her album, Carnival Ride. The fifth single is a cover of a song that Randy Travis had a hit with in 1988 called, I Told You So. The album version is Carrie singing it solo, but tonight Carrie and Randy got together to sing it live for the first time as a duet. This performance was nothing short of spectacular. Carrie just keeps getting better and better. This year's finalists have a lot to live up to.
Turns out that Michael Sarver is safe and I got my prediction right that Alexis Grace would be the lowest vote getter. She sang her clunky version of Jolene one more time while the judges considered if they were going to use their Judges Save. They did not.
This week I got two out of my three predictions correct as well as my prediction for who would be going home. And I have to admit I'm a little surprised. Can't wait to see what happens next week!
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
The Top 11 sing the Grand Ole Opry
Recently the Supreme Miss American Idol, Season Four Winner, Carrie Underwood was invited to be a member of the Grand Ole Opry. It's an honor only given to the biggest and the best Country Music superstars. Tonight the finalists had the chance to work with Randy Travis and see if they can be taught a lesson on reaching the amazing heights that Carrie has achieved.
Michael Sarver has already demonstrated his skills as a country music singer, but tonight when he took on Ain't Going Down Till The Sun Comes Up, he proved himself even more. It has rapid fire lyrics that he mastered perfectly and he worked the crowd in a way that would have made Garth Brooks proud. His look and style was a classic match for the song.
Alison Iraheta has the voice of a great "rock chick". In her interpretation of Blame It On The Heart she stayed very true to her personal style while adding just the right amount of country flavor. She definitely has the potential to get far in the competition.
A great country song tells a heartfelt story that connects with the listener. Kris Allen sat center stage and did so much more than just sing or perform. He conveyed a sincere and genuine expression of emotions as he sang To Make You Feel My Love. It was vulnerable and he made you feel it.
Lil Rounds left no doubt that she can sing any style of music with her showstopping version of Independence Day. Her vocal range is exceptional and she looked stunning. She should be applauded for doing a song that was true to the theme of the week rather than making everything into an R&B song.
Adam Lambert, on the other hand, knows he is not a country artist and he made no effort to try and be one. He took the Johhny Cash song Ring Of Fire and he did it the way he wanted to. It was entertaining and exciting as he performed multiple levels of drama and energy. Just an observation, though, with the nail polish and jewelry you have to wonder how far he is going to go with his androgynous style. This isn't RuPaul's Drag Race!
Scott MacIntyre gave another example of his great emotional vocals coupled with his skillful piano playing. He is an all around wonderful musician who clearly knows all aspects of what he is doing up there. This arrangement of Martina McBride's Wild Angels was masterful.
Alexis Grace chose to slow things down a bit with her version of Dolly Parton's Jolene. This song should have been an opportunity to show off her vocal range, but she didn't take full advantage of it. It was inconsistent and not as impressive as it needed to be.
When Danny Gokey would serve himself better covering a Taylor Hicks song he decided to take on Carrie Underwood's Jesus Take The Wheel. All it did was expose his lack of vocal range and how he screams rather sings. It was just a sloppy mess on all levels. We know he is a fan favorite, but what are they getting? I'm not getting it.
Always On My Mind is a song that has crossed over from Country to high energy Dance hitting #5 by Willie Nelson in 1982 and doing one better at #4 by the Pet Shop Boys in 1988. Anoop Desai performed a slow and subtle version that focused on his ability to sing and interpret lyrics. A very good choice that could turn things around for him.
It was 1957 when Patsy Cline first hit the Billboard HOT 100 with Walkin' After Midnight. Patsy perfectly defines the legend that is the Grand Ole Opry so Meagan Joy Corkery had big shoes to fill. She stayed true to the essence of the original while adding her own flavor that we've come to know. All I can say is that it wasn't a total mess.
Yet another finalist, this time Matt Giraud, has decided to see if he can rise to the challenge of singing a Carrie Underwood song. So Small was her first single off of Carnival Ride and Matt sat behind the piano and did it better than Danny ever could have. Matt's vocals are a strange combination of bland yet still somehow impressive, but no where near the standard set by Carrie.
At this point I have no expectation of seeing my predictions for the bottom three actually be right. Danny Gokey and Alexis Grace definitely failed to impress me tonight so they are taking the first two slots. I can appreciate that they are somehow popular favorites, but they just aren't bringing it each week so I can see it. I think they will be joined in the bottom three by Michael Sarver. After two lackluster performances in a row, Alexis Grace should be the one going home.
Michael Sarver has already demonstrated his skills as a country music singer, but tonight when he took on Ain't Going Down Till The Sun Comes Up, he proved himself even more. It has rapid fire lyrics that he mastered perfectly and he worked the crowd in a way that would have made Garth Brooks proud. His look and style was a classic match for the song.
Alison Iraheta has the voice of a great "rock chick". In her interpretation of Blame It On The Heart she stayed very true to her personal style while adding just the right amount of country flavor. She definitely has the potential to get far in the competition.
A great country song tells a heartfelt story that connects with the listener. Kris Allen sat center stage and did so much more than just sing or perform. He conveyed a sincere and genuine expression of emotions as he sang To Make You Feel My Love. It was vulnerable and he made you feel it.
Lil Rounds left no doubt that she can sing any style of music with her showstopping version of Independence Day. Her vocal range is exceptional and she looked stunning. She should be applauded for doing a song that was true to the theme of the week rather than making everything into an R&B song.
Adam Lambert, on the other hand, knows he is not a country artist and he made no effort to try and be one. He took the Johhny Cash song Ring Of Fire and he did it the way he wanted to. It was entertaining and exciting as he performed multiple levels of drama and energy. Just an observation, though, with the nail polish and jewelry you have to wonder how far he is going to go with his androgynous style. This isn't RuPaul's Drag Race!
Scott MacIntyre gave another example of his great emotional vocals coupled with his skillful piano playing. He is an all around wonderful musician who clearly knows all aspects of what he is doing up there. This arrangement of Martina McBride's Wild Angels was masterful.
Alexis Grace chose to slow things down a bit with her version of Dolly Parton's Jolene. This song should have been an opportunity to show off her vocal range, but she didn't take full advantage of it. It was inconsistent and not as impressive as it needed to be.
When Danny Gokey would serve himself better covering a Taylor Hicks song he decided to take on Carrie Underwood's Jesus Take The Wheel. All it did was expose his lack of vocal range and how he screams rather sings. It was just a sloppy mess on all levels. We know he is a fan favorite, but what are they getting? I'm not getting it.
Always On My Mind is a song that has crossed over from Country to high energy Dance hitting #5 by Willie Nelson in 1982 and doing one better at #4 by the Pet Shop Boys in 1988. Anoop Desai performed a slow and subtle version that focused on his ability to sing and interpret lyrics. A very good choice that could turn things around for him.
It was 1957 when Patsy Cline first hit the Billboard HOT 100 with Walkin' After Midnight. Patsy perfectly defines the legend that is the Grand Ole Opry so Meagan Joy Corkery had big shoes to fill. She stayed true to the essence of the original while adding her own flavor that we've come to know. All I can say is that it wasn't a total mess.
Yet another finalist, this time Matt Giraud, has decided to see if he can rise to the challenge of singing a Carrie Underwood song. So Small was her first single off of Carnival Ride and Matt sat behind the piano and did it better than Danny ever could have. Matt's vocals are a strange combination of bland yet still somehow impressive, but no where near the standard set by Carrie.
At this point I have no expectation of seeing my predictions for the bottom three actually be right. Danny Gokey and Alexis Grace definitely failed to impress me tonight so they are taking the first two slots. I can appreciate that they are somehow popular favorites, but they just aren't bringing it each week so I can see it. I think they will be joined in the bottom three by Michael Sarver. After two lackluster performances in a row, Alexis Grace should be the one going home.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
The Results - Michael Jackson
At some point this season, if they feel that the wrong contestant got the lowest number of votes, the judges now have the option of using "The Judges Save" and allow that contestant to get another chance. Will they use it tonight?
The top 13 finalists opened the show with a fun medley of I Want You Back and ABC, both #1 hits by the Jackson 5 from 1970. Special recognition has to go to Scott MacIntyre for getting up with the rest of the finalists and learning the choreography. None of that sitting in a chair for this exceptional finalist!
Michael Sarver and Allison Iraheta were the first to hear that they are safe and coming next week. Jasmine Murray, unfortunately, had to go stand center stage. Matt Giraud and Kris Allen are also both safe, while Megan Joy Corkrey had to go stand with Jasmine. Rather than leaving us waiting til the end of show, Ryan immediately revealed that Megan is safe and that Jasmine's only hope was a SAVE from the judges. A save that didn't happen......
The only good thing about a very nice young woman like Jasmine being sent home is that this was the first opportunity for all of the American Idol fans to hear the new single from the Supreme Miss American Idol, Season Four Winner, Carrie Underwood. Every week when another finalist is sent home we'll hear Carrie sing Home Sweet Home, a cover of the song that originally cracked the top 40 by Motley Crue in 1992. It goes without saying that Carrie's version is a bazillion times better.
Kanye West is still in the top 10 this week with his song, Heartless, that recently peaked at #2. The only good thing about this unpleasant performance was the fact that he was singing through a distortion microphone. And I loosely use the term "singing" and I wish it was even more distorted.
Scott MacIntyre, Alexis Grace and Danny Gokey are all safe. Anoop Desai then had to go stand center stage. Adam Lambert is safe. Jorge Nunez had to join Anoop center stage leaving Lil Rounds at the safety of the couch.
Season One Miss American Idol, Kelly Clarkson, just released a new album yesterday called All I Ever Wanted. The first single, My Life Would Suck Without You, is still in the top 10 this week after making the biggest leap in the history of the Billboard HOT 100 to #1. She sounded great performing it back on the American Idol stage.
Turns out that Anoop is safe and Jorge must sing while the judges determine if they want to save him or not. Turns out that the judges CAN say goodbye and Jorge's journey has come to an end.
As for my predictions, I got three out of four correct. I didn't even think Jasmine was going to be in the bottom four and turns out she was eliminated. I think both she and Jorge are being sent home too soon.
The top 13 finalists opened the show with a fun medley of I Want You Back and ABC, both #1 hits by the Jackson 5 from 1970. Special recognition has to go to Scott MacIntyre for getting up with the rest of the finalists and learning the choreography. None of that sitting in a chair for this exceptional finalist!
Michael Sarver and Allison Iraheta were the first to hear that they are safe and coming next week. Jasmine Murray, unfortunately, had to go stand center stage. Matt Giraud and Kris Allen are also both safe, while Megan Joy Corkrey had to go stand with Jasmine. Rather than leaving us waiting til the end of show, Ryan immediately revealed that Megan is safe and that Jasmine's only hope was a SAVE from the judges. A save that didn't happen......
The only good thing about a very nice young woman like Jasmine being sent home is that this was the first opportunity for all of the American Idol fans to hear the new single from the Supreme Miss American Idol, Season Four Winner, Carrie Underwood. Every week when another finalist is sent home we'll hear Carrie sing Home Sweet Home, a cover of the song that originally cracked the top 40 by Motley Crue in 1992. It goes without saying that Carrie's version is a bazillion times better.
Kanye West is still in the top 10 this week with his song, Heartless, that recently peaked at #2. The only good thing about this unpleasant performance was the fact that he was singing through a distortion microphone. And I loosely use the term "singing" and I wish it was even more distorted.
Scott MacIntyre, Alexis Grace and Danny Gokey are all safe. Anoop Desai then had to go stand center stage. Adam Lambert is safe. Jorge Nunez had to join Anoop center stage leaving Lil Rounds at the safety of the couch.
Season One Miss American Idol, Kelly Clarkson, just released a new album yesterday called All I Ever Wanted. The first single, My Life Would Suck Without You, is still in the top 10 this week after making the biggest leap in the history of the Billboard HOT 100 to #1. She sounded great performing it back on the American Idol stage.
Turns out that Anoop is safe and Jorge must sing while the judges determine if they want to save him or not. Turns out that the judges CAN say goodbye and Jorge's journey has come to an end.
As for my predictions, I got three out of four correct. I didn't even think Jasmine was going to be in the bottom four and turns out she was eliminated. I think both she and Jorge are being sent home too soon.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
The Top 13 sing Michael Jackson
The top 13 finalists must make a selection from the legendary pop catalog of thriller Michael Jackson. Even though everyone was thrilled to get 13 finalists, turns out that the lowest TWO vote getters will be sent home if they fail to thrill us.
The Way You Make Me Feel spent a week at #1 in 1987. Lil Rounds gave an example of what she is sure to do for many weeks to come. She elevated a great pop song to an even higher level of greatness with her impressive vocal range and energy. And this is surely just a small taste of what she can do.
Keep the Faith is a track from the 1991 album Dangerous. The lyrics state that you can be a winner if you keep the faith. Scott MacIntyre was able to be at his piano and convey this inspirational message to his many fans. It was every bit as great as can be expected. Scott showed off his effortless musical talent as well as his ability to sing very well.
P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing) went to the top 10 in 1983. Danny Gokey did his best to re-invent this post disco groove and make it a hard edged rock jam. He definitely brought a high level of energy to his performance and it was a lot of fun. The last time the American Idol fans got excited by someone like this, Taylor Hicks went all the way to winning the crown.
You Are Not Alone hit #1 in 1995. Michael Sarver used this sweet and simple ballad to show the world that he can belt out the big notes with sincerity and passion. Honestly, he already looked and sounded great, but this was his best yet.
I'll Be There spent five weeks at #1 in 1970 and then two more weeks at the top in 1992. Jasmine Murray took on one of the biggest hits of all time and completely did it justice. This young woman carried herself with elegant poise and style as she delivered this beautiful rendition.
Remember The Time went top 5 in 1992. Kris Allen gave a valiant effort with his guitar on stage to re-envision this R&B favorite into a pop/rock style. Kris is obviously not the best singer in the competition, but he is an undeniable sweetheart and all around good guy. His looks and personality should get him a little farther.
Give In To Me is another track from the 1991 album Dangerous. Alison Iraheta kept her version very true to the original. It's a strong guitar driven rocker that allowed her to belt out the vocals and set herself apart with her unique style and hot pink haired stage presence.
Beat It spent three weeks at #1 in 1983 and went on the win the Grammy for Record of the Year. Anoop Desai got very lucky last week and had the rules rewritten for him so he could be here tonight. This song was not the best way to show that he deserved this opportunity. The song is great but his performance was plain.
Never Can Say Goodbye peaked at #2 in 1971. This was a great song for Jorge Nunez to express his very smooth vocals even though the available choices proved challenging for him. He did the best he could and it would be a shame to lose him this early in the game.
Rockin Robin also peaked at #2 but in 1972. Megan Joy Corkrey used this quirky song choice to show just how quirky she is. It was a kinda silly performance that didn't showcase her vocal range at all, but she's doing whatever she wants.
Black or White spent seven weeks at #1 in 1991. Adam Lambert did a fantastic job bringing this pop anthem to life. He has the moves and stage presence to be convincing where others just seem phony. And his voice is perfect for catchy hit records.
Human Nature went top 10 1983. Matt Giraud sat behind the piano and went into his high falsetto to try and show the world that he can channel Justin Timberlake trying to be Michael Jackson. While it was pretty good, seeing him made it very clear that he is a far cry from the real Justin Timberlake or Michael Jackson.
Dirty Diana spent one week at #1 in 1988. Alexis Grace really made a strange choice with this rock selection. The song really doesn't have a melody that will show her voice at it's best, so she was only able to scream out loud notes to get her point across. It's also possible that her black hot pants weren't the best way to show off her stage presence either.
Since two finalists will be going home tomorrow, I'm going to mix things up and predict a bottom four instead of a bottom three. My prediction for the bottom four is not quite as easy to make as it has been in years past. For the most part, this top 13 is pretty good and there isn't a blatant contestant who doesn't belong. While I have already been clear on who my favorites are, tonight's performances haven't changed that at all. So I'm admittedly just guessing my bottom four at random: I think they might be Anoop Desai, Megan Joy Corkery, Jorge Nunez and Alexis Grace. I think they could all get better if given the chance to come back, but unfortunately my prediction is that Alexis Grace and Jorge Nunez won't be getting another chance.
The Way You Make Me Feel spent a week at #1 in 1987. Lil Rounds gave an example of what she is sure to do for many weeks to come. She elevated a great pop song to an even higher level of greatness with her impressive vocal range and energy. And this is surely just a small taste of what she can do.
Keep the Faith is a track from the 1991 album Dangerous. The lyrics state that you can be a winner if you keep the faith. Scott MacIntyre was able to be at his piano and convey this inspirational message to his many fans. It was every bit as great as can be expected. Scott showed off his effortless musical talent as well as his ability to sing very well.
P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing) went to the top 10 in 1983. Danny Gokey did his best to re-invent this post disco groove and make it a hard edged rock jam. He definitely brought a high level of energy to his performance and it was a lot of fun. The last time the American Idol fans got excited by someone like this, Taylor Hicks went all the way to winning the crown.
You Are Not Alone hit #1 in 1995. Michael Sarver used this sweet and simple ballad to show the world that he can belt out the big notes with sincerity and passion. Honestly, he already looked and sounded great, but this was his best yet.
I'll Be There spent five weeks at #1 in 1970 and then two more weeks at the top in 1992. Jasmine Murray took on one of the biggest hits of all time and completely did it justice. This young woman carried herself with elegant poise and style as she delivered this beautiful rendition.
Remember The Time went top 5 in 1992. Kris Allen gave a valiant effort with his guitar on stage to re-envision this R&B favorite into a pop/rock style. Kris is obviously not the best singer in the competition, but he is an undeniable sweetheart and all around good guy. His looks and personality should get him a little farther.
Give In To Me is another track from the 1991 album Dangerous. Alison Iraheta kept her version very true to the original. It's a strong guitar driven rocker that allowed her to belt out the vocals and set herself apart with her unique style and hot pink haired stage presence.
Beat It spent three weeks at #1 in 1983 and went on the win the Grammy for Record of the Year. Anoop Desai got very lucky last week and had the rules rewritten for him so he could be here tonight. This song was not the best way to show that he deserved this opportunity. The song is great but his performance was plain.
Never Can Say Goodbye peaked at #2 in 1971. This was a great song for Jorge Nunez to express his very smooth vocals even though the available choices proved challenging for him. He did the best he could and it would be a shame to lose him this early in the game.
Rockin Robin also peaked at #2 but in 1972. Megan Joy Corkrey used this quirky song choice to show just how quirky she is. It was a kinda silly performance that didn't showcase her vocal range at all, but she's doing whatever she wants.
Black or White spent seven weeks at #1 in 1991. Adam Lambert did a fantastic job bringing this pop anthem to life. He has the moves and stage presence to be convincing where others just seem phony. And his voice is perfect for catchy hit records.
Human Nature went top 10 1983. Matt Giraud sat behind the piano and went into his high falsetto to try and show the world that he can channel Justin Timberlake trying to be Michael Jackson. While it was pretty good, seeing him made it very clear that he is a far cry from the real Justin Timberlake or Michael Jackson.
Dirty Diana spent one week at #1 in 1988. Alexis Grace really made a strange choice with this rock selection. The song really doesn't have a melody that will show her voice at it's best, so she was only able to scream out loud notes to get her point across. It's also possible that her black hot pants weren't the best way to show off her stage presence either.
Since two finalists will be going home tomorrow, I'm going to mix things up and predict a bottom four instead of a bottom three. My prediction for the bottom four is not quite as easy to make as it has been in years past. For the most part, this top 13 is pretty good and there isn't a blatant contestant who doesn't belong. While I have already been clear on who my favorites are, tonight's performances haven't changed that at all. So I'm admittedly just guessing my bottom four at random: I think they might be Anoop Desai, Megan Joy Corkery, Jorge Nunez and Alexis Grace. I think they could all get better if given the chance to come back, but unfortunately my prediction is that Alexis Grace and Jorge Nunez won't be getting another chance.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
WILD CARD round!
This is the last chance make it or break it opportunity to make it to the TOP 12 of season 8. Here's what the lucky contenders did to try and impress the judges:
Jesse Langseth hoped that she would be hearing something good after singing the Chaka Khan top 5 hit from 1974, Tell Me Something Good. She has the personality and style to shine best when performing live on stage. Really, she would be best playing in a coffee shop or a dive bar. I don' t think the judges are going to think she's big enough for the American Idol stage.
Matt Giraud did his best to get the lovin of the judges with his rendition of the Jackson 5's Who's Lovin You. He worked it by trying to be a blue eyed soul crooner, but he lacked the energy to really breath any life into the performance. Ultimately, he lacks the impressive and effortless vocal range to really stand out.
Megan Joy Corkrey got up there and did her swivel hips moves while singing KT Tunstell's Black Horse and The Cherry Tree. It was a very good choice that illustrates her quirky image and shows more of what she will bring in weeks to come. She has a very good chance of making the cut.
Von Smith tried to rise to the occasion with the top 10 hit from 1976 by Elton John, Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word. It started out very slow and bland, but he saved it all for the end where he hit the big notes for the climactic finish. It's sad. So sad. It's a sad sad situation that this probably won't be enough to push him into the next round.
Jasmine Murray hoped that by singing the song that first introduced the world to #1 hitmaker and Grammy winner for Best New Artist, Christina Aguilera, the judges would see who she really is inside. It wasn't exactly the song that showcased her as a contemporary chart topper, but it clearly demonstrated that she has an impressive vocal range. She may be getting more chances to show off her stuff.
Ricky Braddy sang the song that Stevie Wonder took all the way to #1 in 1972, Superstition. It's clear that he has a good voice and he did his best to show that he has the stage presence and showmanship to go along with it. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like he has it all. It's not likely that he will be moving on.
You gotta wonder why Tatiana Del Toro decided to sing Whitney Houston's 1985 #1 hit Saving All My Love For You again. She just did it a few weeks ago, albeit pretty well, but it didn't impress the viewers to vote for her back then. While it was just as good this time around it's not likely to make the judges think she can do anything else in coming weeks.
Anoop Desai did his best to impress with the 1988 #1 hit by Bobby Brown, My Prerogative. While he also has a good voice along with a genuine and sincere personality, this song pointed out quite clearly how completely uncool he is. It was vocally bland and the showmanship was very unconvincing. This should be his last chance.
Overall, I don't think this group of lucky 8 finalists did what they had to do to make the best argument for a shot in the top 12.
Here's what the judges decided:
Jasmine Murray got the good news that she has made it into the top 12. Ricky Braddy will not. Megan Joy Corkrey will also be taking her place in the top 12 while Tatiana Del Toro once again did not make the cut. Jesse Langseth also did not. Neither did Von Smith. With just Matt Giraud and Anoop Desai remaining the very lucky twist was revealed that they have both made it into the TOP 13!!!
So here are the finalists who have made it to the next round of competition:
Scott MacIntyre
Adam Lambert
Lil Rounds
Danny Gokey
Jasmine Murray
Alexis Grace
Kris Allen
Jorge Nunez
Michael Sarver
Allison Iraheta
Matt Giraud
Megan Joy Corkrey
Anoop Desai
My prediction is that Scott MacIntyre, Lil Rounds and Adam Lambert are going to be headed all the way up to the top three and one of them will be crowned the Season 8 Miss American Idol!
Jesse Langseth hoped that she would be hearing something good after singing the Chaka Khan top 5 hit from 1974, Tell Me Something Good. She has the personality and style to shine best when performing live on stage. Really, she would be best playing in a coffee shop or a dive bar. I don' t think the judges are going to think she's big enough for the American Idol stage.
Matt Giraud did his best to get the lovin of the judges with his rendition of the Jackson 5's Who's Lovin You. He worked it by trying to be a blue eyed soul crooner, but he lacked the energy to really breath any life into the performance. Ultimately, he lacks the impressive and effortless vocal range to really stand out.
Megan Joy Corkrey got up there and did her swivel hips moves while singing KT Tunstell's Black Horse and The Cherry Tree. It was a very good choice that illustrates her quirky image and shows more of what she will bring in weeks to come. She has a very good chance of making the cut.
Von Smith tried to rise to the occasion with the top 10 hit from 1976 by Elton John, Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word. It started out very slow and bland, but he saved it all for the end where he hit the big notes for the climactic finish. It's sad. So sad. It's a sad sad situation that this probably won't be enough to push him into the next round.
Jasmine Murray hoped that by singing the song that first introduced the world to #1 hitmaker and Grammy winner for Best New Artist, Christina Aguilera, the judges would see who she really is inside. It wasn't exactly the song that showcased her as a contemporary chart topper, but it clearly demonstrated that she has an impressive vocal range. She may be getting more chances to show off her stuff.
Ricky Braddy sang the song that Stevie Wonder took all the way to #1 in 1972, Superstition. It's clear that he has a good voice and he did his best to show that he has the stage presence and showmanship to go along with it. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like he has it all. It's not likely that he will be moving on.
You gotta wonder why Tatiana Del Toro decided to sing Whitney Houston's 1985 #1 hit Saving All My Love For You again. She just did it a few weeks ago, albeit pretty well, but it didn't impress the viewers to vote for her back then. While it was just as good this time around it's not likely to make the judges think she can do anything else in coming weeks.
Anoop Desai did his best to impress with the 1988 #1 hit by Bobby Brown, My Prerogative. While he also has a good voice along with a genuine and sincere personality, this song pointed out quite clearly how completely uncool he is. It was vocally bland and the showmanship was very unconvincing. This should be his last chance.
Overall, I don't think this group of lucky 8 finalists did what they had to do to make the best argument for a shot in the top 12.
Here's what the judges decided:
Jasmine Murray got the good news that she has made it into the top 12. Ricky Braddy will not. Megan Joy Corkrey will also be taking her place in the top 12 while Tatiana Del Toro once again did not make the cut. Jesse Langseth also did not. Neither did Von Smith. With just Matt Giraud and Anoop Desai remaining the very lucky twist was revealed that they have both made it into the TOP 13!!!
So here are the finalists who have made it to the next round of competition:
Scott MacIntyre
Adam Lambert
Lil Rounds
Danny Gokey
Jasmine Murray
Alexis Grace
Kris Allen
Jorge Nunez
Michael Sarver
Allison Iraheta
Matt Giraud
Megan Joy Corkrey
Anoop Desai
My prediction is that Scott MacIntyre, Lil Rounds and Adam Lambert are going to be headed all the way up to the top three and one of them will be crowned the Season 8 Miss American Idol!
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
More finalists and the WILD CARD contenders!
The 12 finalists opened the show with Katy Perry's triple platinum selling hit single that has been burning up the charts for 30 weeks now peaking at #3, Hot N Cold. It's a fun a bouncy smash, but the choreography tonight was toned down with all the boys sitting on chairs center stage. If this is what has to be done to make accommodations for Scott MacIntyre, it's fine with me!
Lil Rounds didn't have to wait long at all to find out that the fans do not want to Be Without her. She was the first in the group to make the top 12.
Ariana Afsar, Taylor Vaifanua, Alex Wagner-Trugman and Kendall Beard all then heard in rapid succession that they will not be getting the chance to take it to the next level. That great news was saved for Scott MacIntyre, who blessed us with another inspirational performance of Mandolin Rain.
Nathaniel Marshall, Kristen McNamara, Von Smith and Felicia Barton were the next to learn they will not be moving forward. It was then down to Ju'not Joyner and Jorge Nunez and the Sun will not be going Down on Jorge.
This week I am very pleased to report that I successfully predicted all three of the finalists who will be moving on to the top 12. But after three weeks, only nine positions in the Top 12 have been filled. Tomorrow night the following eight finalists will be getting one more WILD CARD chance to win your votes. I am also very pleased to report that I successfully predicted six of them:
Von Smith
Jasmine Murray
Ricky Braddy
Megan Joy Corkery
Tatiana Del Toro
Matt Giraud
Jesse Langseth
Anoop Desai
Lil Rounds didn't have to wait long at all to find out that the fans do not want to Be Without her. She was the first in the group to make the top 12.
Ariana Afsar, Taylor Vaifanua, Alex Wagner-Trugman and Kendall Beard all then heard in rapid succession that they will not be getting the chance to take it to the next level. That great news was saved for Scott MacIntyre, who blessed us with another inspirational performance of Mandolin Rain.
Nathaniel Marshall, Kristen McNamara, Von Smith and Felicia Barton were the next to learn they will not be moving forward. It was then down to Ju'not Joyner and Jorge Nunez and the Sun will not be going Down on Jorge.
This week I am very pleased to report that I successfully predicted all three of the finalists who will be moving on to the top 12. But after three weeks, only nine positions in the Top 12 have been filled. Tomorrow night the following eight finalists will be getting one more WILD CARD chance to win your votes. I am also very pleased to report that I successfully predicted six of them:
Von Smith
Jasmine Murray
Ricky Braddy
Megan Joy Corkery
Tatiana Del Toro
Matt Giraud
Jesse Langseth
Anoop Desai
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Another group of finalists...
Only three of the next 12 finalists will be moving forward and joining the six who are already moving forward. Here's what they did to win you over...
Von Smith chose to sing a song that went top 10 in 1968 by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, You're All I Need To Get By. Being a duet this song is packed with a full range of notes for both a male and female voice. Von gave his best effort to show that he can tackle the entire spectrum of vocalizations required - some of it worked and some of it seemed forced. He's nice looking and talented so it's possible we will be seeing more of him.
Taylor Vaifanua chose to sing the 2004 top 5 hit from Alicia Keys, If I Ain't Got You. She played it very safe and stayed true to an almost exact recreation of the original. While it sounded good, it didn't give Taylor a chance to step out as a unique new artist. She is destined to be a back up singer who we will not be seeing more of.
Alex Wagner-Trugman chose to sing Elton John's I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues that went top 5 in 1983. Alex is a skinny little guy who used this song to define for us why they call it a tragic hot mess. He was acting like a total goof ball and his vocalizations were much more like screaming than singing. Since only three finalists make it through the odds are that we will not be seeing him again.
Arianna Afsar chose to sing the song Abba took to the top 10 in 1980, The Winner Takes It All. Meryl Streep should have gotten an Oscar nomination for her emotional performance of this anthem in last Summer's Mamma Mia. Arianna is no Meryl Streep. She's got a nice voice, but this performance was vocally inconsistent. There were definitely some sour notes mixed in with the good ones. She may have messed up her chance for us to see her again.
Ju'not Joyner chose to sing the 2006 #1 hit, Hey There Delilah, by the Plain White T's. This song is a plain and simple love song and Ju'not made it even more plain. This is gonna be a matter of taste - you either like this slightly soulful version or you think it's just a drab rendition of the original. His personality is leaning more toward the drab so I don't think we'll be seeing him again.
Kristen McNamara chose to sing Tracy Chapman's top 5 hit from 1996, Give Me One Reason. The original version is a slow and subtle acoustic folk song and Kristen showed that can punch a little life into it. She brought some pop/rock energy to this version as well as showing off her impressive vocal range. She managed to give the surprise that she's more talented than expected. Because she impressed rather than disappointed we should be seeing more of her.
Nathaniel Marshall chose to sing the huge comeback song that Meatloaf took to #1 on the Billboard HOT 100 in 1993, I Would Do Anything For Love, But I Won't Do That. It's the perfect song for a finalist who is all about the drama. The over the top production allowed him to vocally try to match his vibrantly loud outfit. He's great for some comic relief, but since he's not ready to be taken seriously, we should not be seeing him again.
Felicia Barton chose to sing the 2007 #1 smash from Alicia Keys, No One. Felicia showed that she is perfectly capable of handling the vocals required and she also knows how to dress the part. She looked great and there's a good chance we'll be seeing her again.
Scott MacIntyre chose to sing Mandolin Rain, that Bruce Hornsby took to the top 5 in 1987. It doesn't really matter that this wasn't the most dynamic song choice because Scott knows how to bring out the emotional connection every time he sings. There's a raw vulnerability that comes through when he takes the stage that keeps you captivated. We should definitely be seeing him again.
Kendall Beard chose to sing This Is For The Girls by Martina McBride. After the Supreme Miss American Idol, Carrie Underwood, was crowned in Season Four we were immediately served the cheap knock-off, Kellie Pickler. Are we ready for another pale comparison to Carrie in Season Eight? Kendall is pretty good. She's attractive and has a nice voice so we might be seeing her again.
Jorge Nunez chose to sing a song that was a huge hit for Elton John peaking at #2 in 1974 and going all the way to #1 in 1992, Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me. Jorge has a very smooth voice and he expresses it on stage effortlessly. He has a very sincere and genuine personality. In addition, he's a very handsome guy. All the necessary pieces are there, so we should definitely be seeing more of him.
Lil Rounds chose to sing the song that Mary J. Blige took to #2 in 2006, Be Without You. You have to say it at least once - her name may be lil', but there's nothing lil about her big voice! And she proved tonight that she can do exciting and contemporary things with that voice. Since she's talented enough to put out an album now, we should certainly be seeing more of her.
Only three of these 12 finalists are moving on in the competition.
Here are my predictions: Scott MacIntyre will be the top boy vote getter and Lil Rounds will be the top girl. Jorge Nunez will then come out ahead of the others to stay in the game.
Von Smith chose to sing a song that went top 10 in 1968 by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, You're All I Need To Get By. Being a duet this song is packed with a full range of notes for both a male and female voice. Von gave his best effort to show that he can tackle the entire spectrum of vocalizations required - some of it worked and some of it seemed forced. He's nice looking and talented so it's possible we will be seeing more of him.
Taylor Vaifanua chose to sing the 2004 top 5 hit from Alicia Keys, If I Ain't Got You. She played it very safe and stayed true to an almost exact recreation of the original. While it sounded good, it didn't give Taylor a chance to step out as a unique new artist. She is destined to be a back up singer who we will not be seeing more of.
Alex Wagner-Trugman chose to sing Elton John's I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues that went top 5 in 1983. Alex is a skinny little guy who used this song to define for us why they call it a tragic hot mess. He was acting like a total goof ball and his vocalizations were much more like screaming than singing. Since only three finalists make it through the odds are that we will not be seeing him again.
Arianna Afsar chose to sing the song Abba took to the top 10 in 1980, The Winner Takes It All. Meryl Streep should have gotten an Oscar nomination for her emotional performance of this anthem in last Summer's Mamma Mia. Arianna is no Meryl Streep. She's got a nice voice, but this performance was vocally inconsistent. There were definitely some sour notes mixed in with the good ones. She may have messed up her chance for us to see her again.
Ju'not Joyner chose to sing the 2006 #1 hit, Hey There Delilah, by the Plain White T's. This song is a plain and simple love song and Ju'not made it even more plain. This is gonna be a matter of taste - you either like this slightly soulful version or you think it's just a drab rendition of the original. His personality is leaning more toward the drab so I don't think we'll be seeing him again.
Kristen McNamara chose to sing Tracy Chapman's top 5 hit from 1996, Give Me One Reason. The original version is a slow and subtle acoustic folk song and Kristen showed that can punch a little life into it. She brought some pop/rock energy to this version as well as showing off her impressive vocal range. She managed to give the surprise that she's more talented than expected. Because she impressed rather than disappointed we should be seeing more of her.
Nathaniel Marshall chose to sing the huge comeback song that Meatloaf took to #1 on the Billboard HOT 100 in 1993, I Would Do Anything For Love, But I Won't Do That. It's the perfect song for a finalist who is all about the drama. The over the top production allowed him to vocally try to match his vibrantly loud outfit. He's great for some comic relief, but since he's not ready to be taken seriously, we should not be seeing him again.
Felicia Barton chose to sing the 2007 #1 smash from Alicia Keys, No One. Felicia showed that she is perfectly capable of handling the vocals required and she also knows how to dress the part. She looked great and there's a good chance we'll be seeing her again.
Scott MacIntyre chose to sing Mandolin Rain, that Bruce Hornsby took to the top 5 in 1987. It doesn't really matter that this wasn't the most dynamic song choice because Scott knows how to bring out the emotional connection every time he sings. There's a raw vulnerability that comes through when he takes the stage that keeps you captivated. We should definitely be seeing him again.
Kendall Beard chose to sing This Is For The Girls by Martina McBride. After the Supreme Miss American Idol, Carrie Underwood, was crowned in Season Four we were immediately served the cheap knock-off, Kellie Pickler. Are we ready for another pale comparison to Carrie in Season Eight? Kendall is pretty good. She's attractive and has a nice voice so we might be seeing her again.
Jorge Nunez chose to sing a song that was a huge hit for Elton John peaking at #2 in 1974 and going all the way to #1 in 1992, Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me. Jorge has a very smooth voice and he expresses it on stage effortlessly. He has a very sincere and genuine personality. In addition, he's a very handsome guy. All the necessary pieces are there, so we should definitely be seeing more of him.
Lil Rounds chose to sing the song that Mary J. Blige took to #2 in 2006, Be Without You. You have to say it at least once - her name may be lil', but there's nothing lil about her big voice! And she proved tonight that she can do exciting and contemporary things with that voice. Since she's talented enough to put out an album now, we should certainly be seeing more of her.
Only three of these 12 finalists are moving on in the competition.
Here are my predictions: Scott MacIntyre will be the top boy vote getter and Lil Rounds will be the top girl. Jorge Nunez will then come out ahead of the others to stay in the game.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)