The Supreme Miss American Idol and Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood, started out 2013 winning the Grammy for Best Country Solo Performance for Blown Away. This became her 6th career Grammy Award.
Carrie continued to have hits from her Blown Away album with Two Black Cadillacs and See You Again both topping the Billboard Country Songs charts as well as the CMT Hot 20 Video Countdown.
At the CMT Awards she won the top award of the night for the second year in a row. Last year she won the CMT Video of the Year for Good Girl and this year she won the CMT Video of the Year again for Blown Away.
Carrie became the voice of Sunday Night Football by taking over the NFL theme song "Waiting All Day for Sunday Night".
For the 6th year in a row Carrie hosted the CMA Awards with Brad Paisley and she delivered the best performance of the night. She performed a medley of her hits Good Girl, Blown Away, Two Black Cadillacs and See You Again.
In December she topped off an amazing year with the record breaking LIVE television event The Sound of Music. She took on the lead role of Maria and performed the classic songs My Favorite Things and Do Re Mi perfectly. The show earned the highest rating for 18-49, non-sports Thursday ratings average since the finale of ‘ER,’ which aired in 2009. The musical also earned NBC the most viewers since 2004′s season finale of ‘Frasier.’
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
American Idol Superstars 2013
Even though there are new singing competition shows on that are getting attention, none of them are getting close to the standard that has been set by American Idol. While people might be gossiping about X-Factor and The Voice, the reality is that, they are complete failures at finding or creating new music superstars. In the many seasons that these shows have been on, there hasn't been a single finalist or winner to even make a ripple in the real world.
The American Idol winners and finalists, on the other hand, can be found actually working and thriving in the music business. Many of them have become viable stars on their own apart from their initial American Idol exposure. They are winning awards, appearing on TV shows, starring in movies, getting radio airplay and the public is buying their music! Just look at the impact the American Idol Superstars had in 2013:
The Season 11 Miss American Idol winner Phillip Phillips was all over the radio with his two hit songs Home and Gone Gone Gone. According to the Billboard Year End charts he had the #14 album of the year! He was even nominated as the Favorite New Artist at the American Music Awards.
The Season 10 Miss American Idol winner Scotty McCreery released his third album and saw it come in at #1 on the Billboard Country albums chart. At the American Country Awards he actually won the award for Breakthrough Artist of the Year.
The Season 8 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up Adam Lambert started appearing on the hit TV show Glee where his distinctive singing, dancing and acting style is being put to use every week.
The Season 5 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up Katharine McPhee completed her starring role in the musical drama series Smash.
The Season 5 Miss American Idol finalist Kellie Pickler is a consistent award nominee for her country music and this year she ended up winning the Mirror Ball trophy on Dancing With The Stars.
The Season 5 Miss American Idol finalist Mandisa has totally dominated the Gospel world with the release of her album Overcomer. She has earned three Grammy nominations for her music this year.
The Season 3 Miss American Idol winner Fantasia released her 4th studio album and has also received impressive critical acclaim including three Grammy nominations.
The Oscar winner and Season 3 Miss American Idol finalist Jennifer Hudson starred in the movie Winnie Mandela that is now streaming on netflix.
The Season 2 Miss American Idol winner Ruben Studdard was a contestant on this season of the Biggest Loser and he has already lost over 100 pounds. Even though he has been eliminated, by the end of the season he hopes to lose another 100 pounds.
The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson started out the year by winning her third Grammy (Best Pop Album) and she ended the year with the very successful release of her holiday collection, Wrapped in Red topping the charts and also allowing her the opportunity to have her own Christmas TV special.
The American Idol winners and finalists, on the other hand, can be found actually working and thriving in the music business. Many of them have become viable stars on their own apart from their initial American Idol exposure. They are winning awards, appearing on TV shows, starring in movies, getting radio airplay and the public is buying their music! Just look at the impact the American Idol Superstars had in 2013:
The Season 11 Miss American Idol winner Phillip Phillips was all over the radio with his two hit songs Home and Gone Gone Gone. According to the Billboard Year End charts he had the #14 album of the year! He was even nominated as the Favorite New Artist at the American Music Awards.
The Season 10 Miss American Idol winner Scotty McCreery released his third album and saw it come in at #1 on the Billboard Country albums chart. At the American Country Awards he actually won the award for Breakthrough Artist of the Year.
The Season 8 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up Adam Lambert started appearing on the hit TV show Glee where his distinctive singing, dancing and acting style is being put to use every week.
The Season 5 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up Katharine McPhee completed her starring role in the musical drama series Smash.
The Season 5 Miss American Idol finalist Kellie Pickler is a consistent award nominee for her country music and this year she ended up winning the Mirror Ball trophy on Dancing With The Stars.
The Season 5 Miss American Idol finalist Mandisa has totally dominated the Gospel world with the release of her album Overcomer. She has earned three Grammy nominations for her music this year.
The Season 3 Miss American Idol winner Fantasia released her 4th studio album and has also received impressive critical acclaim including three Grammy nominations.
The Oscar winner and Season 3 Miss American Idol finalist Jennifer Hudson starred in the movie Winnie Mandela that is now streaming on netflix.
The Season 2 Miss American Idol winner Ruben Studdard was a contestant on this season of the Biggest Loser and he has already lost over 100 pounds. Even though he has been eliminated, by the end of the season he hopes to lose another 100 pounds.
The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson started out the year by winning her third Grammy (Best Pop Album) and she ended the year with the very successful release of her holiday collection, Wrapped in Red topping the charts and also allowing her the opportunity to have her own Christmas TV special.
Sunday, December 29, 2013
Favorite Albums of 2013
These were my favorite new albums of 2013:
Golden - Lady Antebellum
The fourth release from Lady Antebellum is another collection of great songs that you can listen to from beginning to end. As expected, it has amazing singles including the very catchy, Downtown, and Compass. It also has the wonderful Goodbye Town.
Spitfire - Leann Rimes
She has one of the most amazing voices in all of music and her new release in 2013 is an outstanding showcase for her depth and range. From the heartfelt ballad What Have I Done to the joyful happiness of Bottle there is something for every one here. Another stand out track is Gasoline and Matches when you want to dance a swing.
Yours Truly - Ariana Grande
You may have gotten to know her watching Sam and Cat on Nickelodeon, but Ariana Grande has really come into her own on her debut album. She is a true musical artist with a truly outstanding voice. Yours Truly includes the smash hit The Way as well as the singles Baby I and Right There. If you saw her win the award for Favorite New Artist at the American Music Awards you saw her perform Tattooed Heart.
Bombshell - Smash Cast
The best Broadway Cast recording of the year never actually made it to Broadway. While Bombshell won the Tony for Best Musical on the show Smash, it unfortunately was just a fantasy. This collection of songs about the life of Marilyn Monroe is fun and entertainment from the start of Act One all the way until the curtain comes down at the end of Act Two. It features songs in every imaginable style including jive, doo-wop, jazz and lush romantic ballads. It even has a song called Let's Start Tomorrow Tonight that could have been a hit for Nat King Cole back in the day. And of course, it's wonderful to hear The Season 5 Miss American Idol 1st runner up, Katharine McPhee sounding spectacular on Don't Forget Me and Never Give All The Heart.
Golden - Lady Antebellum
The fourth release from Lady Antebellum is another collection of great songs that you can listen to from beginning to end. As expected, it has amazing singles including the very catchy, Downtown, and Compass. It also has the wonderful Goodbye Town.
Spitfire - Leann Rimes
She has one of the most amazing voices in all of music and her new release in 2013 is an outstanding showcase for her depth and range. From the heartfelt ballad What Have I Done to the joyful happiness of Bottle there is something for every one here. Another stand out track is Gasoline and Matches when you want to dance a swing.
Yours Truly - Ariana Grande
You may have gotten to know her watching Sam and Cat on Nickelodeon, but Ariana Grande has really come into her own on her debut album. She is a true musical artist with a truly outstanding voice. Yours Truly includes the smash hit The Way as well as the singles Baby I and Right There. If you saw her win the award for Favorite New Artist at the American Music Awards you saw her perform Tattooed Heart.
Bombshell - Smash Cast
The best Broadway Cast recording of the year never actually made it to Broadway. While Bombshell won the Tony for Best Musical on the show Smash, it unfortunately was just a fantasy. This collection of songs about the life of Marilyn Monroe is fun and entertainment from the start of Act One all the way until the curtain comes down at the end of Act Two. It features songs in every imaginable style including jive, doo-wop, jazz and lush romantic ballads. It even has a song called Let's Start Tomorrow Tonight that could have been a hit for Nat King Cole back in the day. And of course, it's wonderful to hear The Season 5 Miss American Idol 1st runner up, Katharine McPhee sounding spectacular on Don't Forget Me and Never Give All The Heart.
Artists of the Year - Luke Bryan
Luke Bryan
The amazing success with Tailgates and Tanlines in 2012 for Luke Bryan was just the beginning. He is on a roll and there is no stopping him!
He started off 2013 by releasing his latest collection of Spring Break music and it shot to #1 on the Billboard Top 200 albums chart.
He then not only hosted the Academy of Country Music Awards in April, but he walked away with the biggest award of the night!!! He was named the ACM Entertainer of the Year!! His emotional and heartfelt acceptance speech only reinforced that he is the coolest and nicest guy in the business.
Even though his albums Tailgates and Tanlines and Spring Break were still selling well, he released another new collection in 2013 called Crash My Party. The lead off single and title track became an immediate hit and it is a favorite for dancing a shadow. The second single, That's My Kind Of Night, completely secures his position as the go to man for a fun country party jam. On the year end Billboard Country Albums chart he ended up taking THREE positions in the top 10 with Crash My Party at #3, Tailgates and Tanlines at #8 and Spring Break at #10.
He once again won the American Music Award for Favorite Country Male Artist as well as being named a CMT Artist of the Year for the second time. In addition, he completely cleaned up again at the American Country Awards winning Artist of the Year.
The amazing success with Tailgates and Tanlines in 2012 for Luke Bryan was just the beginning. He is on a roll and there is no stopping him!
He started off 2013 by releasing his latest collection of Spring Break music and it shot to #1 on the Billboard Top 200 albums chart.
He then not only hosted the Academy of Country Music Awards in April, but he walked away with the biggest award of the night!!! He was named the ACM Entertainer of the Year!! His emotional and heartfelt acceptance speech only reinforced that he is the coolest and nicest guy in the business.
Even though his albums Tailgates and Tanlines and Spring Break were still selling well, he released another new collection in 2013 called Crash My Party. The lead off single and title track became an immediate hit and it is a favorite for dancing a shadow. The second single, That's My Kind Of Night, completely secures his position as the go to man for a fun country party jam. On the year end Billboard Country Albums chart he ended up taking THREE positions in the top 10 with Crash My Party at #3, Tailgates and Tanlines at #8 and Spring Break at #10.
He once again won the American Music Award for Favorite Country Male Artist as well as being named a CMT Artist of the Year for the second time. In addition, he completely cleaned up again at the American Country Awards winning Artist of the Year.
Artists of the Year - Macklemore and Ryan Lewis
Macklemore and Ryan Lewis
There's no denying that the hip hop act of the year, with no competition is Macklemore and Ryan Lewis. Their album, The Heist, as a huge seller with the lead off track, Thrift Store, becoming the #1 single for all of 2013 according to Billboard. Thrift Store is a silly novelty hit that could have branded these guys as a frivolous one hit wonder act, but there was much more to come.
They followed up Thrift Store with a song called Can't Hold Us which is, once again, with no competition, the high energy dance floor party anthem of the year.
And then they released a single that showed that these guys are actually silly novelty, dance party hip hop artists with a point of view. Their song Same Love very openly and specifically celebrates their support for marriage equality. It doesn't matter that the song isn't as fun as Thrift Store or as amazing as Can't Hold Us. What matters is that with Same Love these guys are speaking openly and honestly to the hip hop audience that same sex marriage is nothing to be afraid of and that it certainly should not be made fun of.
Being bold and outspoken has not hurt their career at all. They are one of the top sellers of the year and they are multiple nominees at the Grammy Awards.
There's no denying that the hip hop act of the year, with no competition is Macklemore and Ryan Lewis. Their album, The Heist, as a huge seller with the lead off track, Thrift Store, becoming the #1 single for all of 2013 according to Billboard. Thrift Store is a silly novelty hit that could have branded these guys as a frivolous one hit wonder act, but there was much more to come.
They followed up Thrift Store with a song called Can't Hold Us which is, once again, with no competition, the high energy dance floor party anthem of the year.
And then they released a single that showed that these guys are actually silly novelty, dance party hip hop artists with a point of view. Their song Same Love very openly and specifically celebrates their support for marriage equality. It doesn't matter that the song isn't as fun as Thrift Store or as amazing as Can't Hold Us. What matters is that with Same Love these guys are speaking openly and honestly to the hip hop audience that same sex marriage is nothing to be afraid of and that it certainly should not be made fun of.
Being bold and outspoken has not hurt their career at all. They are one of the top sellers of the year and they are multiple nominees at the Grammy Awards.
Artists of the Year - One Direction
One Direction
2013 was a year for the boys of One Direction to kick things into high gear! They released their third album called Midnight Memories and had their highest first week sales with over 500,000 copies sold. All of their videos on YouTube have over 100 Million views and they dominated at the fan voted American Music Awards winning in all of the Favorite Pop Group categories.
But the most exciting way to see these boys in 2013 was in 3D on the big screen! They released a movie called This Is Us that told the whole story from the beginning how they got together after the five guys auditioned individually for the British version of X-Factor in 2010. They were all being eliminated, but Simon Cowell offered them a second chance if they joined forces and formed the Boy Band, One Direction.They immediately became a huge success in Britain and it was just a matter of time before they caught on over here. The movie took us behind the scenes and we saw them in rehearsals, in the recording studio and even at home with their families and friends. And of course, they sang all of their hits!
2013 was a year for the boys of One Direction to kick things into high gear! They released their third album called Midnight Memories and had their highest first week sales with over 500,000 copies sold. All of their videos on YouTube have over 100 Million views and they dominated at the fan voted American Music Awards winning in all of the Favorite Pop Group categories.
But the most exciting way to see these boys in 2013 was in 3D on the big screen! They released a movie called This Is Us that told the whole story from the beginning how they got together after the five guys auditioned individually for the British version of X-Factor in 2010. They were all being eliminated, but Simon Cowell offered them a second chance if they joined forces and formed the Boy Band, One Direction.They immediately became a huge success in Britain and it was just a matter of time before they caught on over here. The movie took us behind the scenes and we saw them in rehearsals, in the recording studio and even at home with their families and friends. And of course, they sang all of their hits!
Thursday, December 26, 2013
More Favorite Songs of 2013
I recently listed my Top 10 Favorite Songs of 2013. Just for clarification let me explain that those songs all had to meet the eligibility for that list by reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard HOT 100 during 2013. I happen to be one of those people that believes that "It's not a hit until it's a hit on Billboard". Just in case you don't know, in order to reach the top of the Billboard HOT 100, a song must get the most sales and radio airplay for any given week.
There were lots of other songs that I loved in 2013 that failed to make the top 10 on the Billboard HOT 100 singles chart. Here's a list of some of my other favorites in 2013. One thing that I can say about all of these songs is that it's a shame it didn't get more sales and airplay to do better on the Billboard HOT 100 singles chart.
In the ideal world, great songs from Country, Pop, Dance and R&B would all find their way to the upper positions of the Billboard HOT 100.
Wagon Wheel - Darius Rucker: There was quite the controversy over the fact that someone would dare cover this bluegrass toe tapper by the Old Crow Medicine Show. I am far from being a purist so it did not bother me at all that Darius enlisted Lady Antebellum for background vocals and gave me my favorite new song for a slow and easy two step in 2013.
Done - The Band Perry: With previous releases like If I Die Young and Better Dig Two, The Band Perry was the most morbid group ever wallowing in songs about death. I had no interest in paying attention to them and then they released Done. It is exactly the kind of song that is great to play loud and do a super fun line dance to.
That's My Kinda Night - Luke Bryan: Luke became the ACM Entertainer of the Year and the top selling artist by releasing booty shaking, fun loving songs like this.
Troublemaker - Olly Murs: It could have been created in a factory taking the best beat with the catchiest lyrics, adding the cute singer and the fun video and I love every bit of it!
Sunny and 75 - Joe Nichols: No matter what the weather is, this song has the power to transport me to that fresh and fun place where it is free. easy, sunny and 75! Whipping around the dance floor doing a fast two step to this song is pure joy.
Sleep - Allen Stone: I am so happy that VH1 made him a "You Oughta Know" artist because I absolutely love this song. Unfortunately, it seems like I am the only one by the tiny about of airplay it got. Oh well, maybe by listing it here it might get some more attention. :)
All-American Boy - Steve Grand: How exciting to see a young artist be open and brave enough at the beginning of his career to be not only be openly gay, but to clearly express it in his songs and videos. Steve Grand genuinely expressed the feelings of having a crush on a guy that you can't have so sincerely in this song that it can't be denied.
Redneck Crazy - Tyler Farr: While I am about as far from being a redneck as you can get, there is just something about this song that pulled me in and wouldn't let go. It's honest and sexy as hell. It makes for the best shadow dance of the night.
Take Back The Night - Justin Timberlake: The 20/20 Experience was the biggest album of the year, but somehow this single failed to also reach the top of the charts. It is the clear stand out track for me that showcases all my favorite qualities about Justin. It has a classic smooth R&B groove with a funky horn section. It's great to dance to and sing along with so I have no idea why it stalled on the charts.
Bottle - Leann Rimes: She has one of the best voices in all of music and she released a fierce collection of songs on an album called Spitfire in 2013. This track has the sound of a classic country tune and it is the best mid-tempo two step of the year.
There were lots of other songs that I loved in 2013 that failed to make the top 10 on the Billboard HOT 100 singles chart. Here's a list of some of my other favorites in 2013. One thing that I can say about all of these songs is that it's a shame it didn't get more sales and airplay to do better on the Billboard HOT 100 singles chart.
In the ideal world, great songs from Country, Pop, Dance and R&B would all find their way to the upper positions of the Billboard HOT 100.
Wagon Wheel - Darius Rucker: There was quite the controversy over the fact that someone would dare cover this bluegrass toe tapper by the Old Crow Medicine Show. I am far from being a purist so it did not bother me at all that Darius enlisted Lady Antebellum for background vocals and gave me my favorite new song for a slow and easy two step in 2013.
Done - The Band Perry: With previous releases like If I Die Young and Better Dig Two, The Band Perry was the most morbid group ever wallowing in songs about death. I had no interest in paying attention to them and then they released Done. It is exactly the kind of song that is great to play loud and do a super fun line dance to.
That's My Kinda Night - Luke Bryan: Luke became the ACM Entertainer of the Year and the top selling artist by releasing booty shaking, fun loving songs like this.
Troublemaker - Olly Murs: It could have been created in a factory taking the best beat with the catchiest lyrics, adding the cute singer and the fun video and I love every bit of it!
Sunny and 75 - Joe Nichols: No matter what the weather is, this song has the power to transport me to that fresh and fun place where it is free. easy, sunny and 75! Whipping around the dance floor doing a fast two step to this song is pure joy.
Sleep - Allen Stone: I am so happy that VH1 made him a "You Oughta Know" artist because I absolutely love this song. Unfortunately, it seems like I am the only one by the tiny about of airplay it got. Oh well, maybe by listing it here it might get some more attention. :)
All-American Boy - Steve Grand: How exciting to see a young artist be open and brave enough at the beginning of his career to be not only be openly gay, but to clearly express it in his songs and videos. Steve Grand genuinely expressed the feelings of having a crush on a guy that you can't have so sincerely in this song that it can't be denied.
Redneck Crazy - Tyler Farr: While I am about as far from being a redneck as you can get, there is just something about this song that pulled me in and wouldn't let go. It's honest and sexy as hell. It makes for the best shadow dance of the night.
Take Back The Night - Justin Timberlake: The 20/20 Experience was the biggest album of the year, but somehow this single failed to also reach the top of the charts. It is the clear stand out track for me that showcases all my favorite qualities about Justin. It has a classic smooth R&B groove with a funky horn section. It's great to dance to and sing along with so I have no idea why it stalled on the charts.
Bottle - Leann Rimes: She has one of the best voices in all of music and she released a fierce collection of songs on an album called Spitfire in 2013. This track has the sound of a classic country tune and it is the best mid-tempo two step of the year.
The Top 10 Songs of 2013
The Top 10 songs of 2013!!
2013 has been a great year for fun pop songs getting into the upper portion of the Billboard HOT 100 Singles chart. Here's my Top 10 favorite songs of the year:
Come and Get It - Selena Gomez
For the past five years Selena Gomez has been delivering some of the best dance pop music out there, but none of her songs managed to really crossover to the pop mainstream. Finally in 2013 the timing was right for one of her singles to reach the Top 10 of the Billboard HOT 100. Come and Get It is simply pop music perfection with its catching beat and sing a long chorus. It is so nice to see one of the Disney kids grow up in front of us and be so beautiful and professional.
Get Lucky - Daft Punk
Upon first listen you might have thought you were hearing a vintage disco classic, but this dance jam was brand new and taking over radio airplay. Daft Punk have now found themselves nominated for the Grammy for Record of the Year with this outstanding single.
The Way - Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande successfully embarked on her pop crossover career apart from work on Nickelodeon TV shows with this 90's retro R&B track. Her vocals are reminiscent of Mariah Carey and she presents herself with the highest standard of class and poise. It will be nice to see a lot more of her in the future.
Safe and Sound - Capital Cities
All of the pieces come together perfectly making this song impossible to not like. And the fact that the video is full of so many awesome styles of dancing pushes it up even higher on the list of favorites.
Can't Hold Us - Macklemore and Ryan Lewis
Their album The Heist is packed with hits, but this is the one that I had playing in heavy rotation all year long. It is the dance party anthem of the year!
Best Song Ever - One Direction
One Direction proved that they had staying power, at least for another year, by releasing super fun songs and videos like this.
Roar - Katy Perry
In 2013 Katy proved that she is still the master at serving up the perfect combination of a catchy pop song with an amazing video. This time she went deep into the jungle to deliver this empowering anthem.
When I Was Your Man - Bruno Mars
In this era of Electronic Dance Music domination it is very rare that a tender ballad reaches the top of the charts, Bruno Mars released something that was too good to be ignored. So take heed listeners and treat your boyfriends right while you have them!
Applause - Lady Gaga
The first single from her ArtPop collection is catchy, fun and completely describes the driving force for many to perform in front of the crowds. I mean really, why rehearse for weeks if no audience is there to shower you with praise when you finally perform?
Feel This Moment - Christina Aguilera with Pitbull
Thank goodness Christina found an outlet for her vocal talents on this high energy collaboration with Pitbull. Her solo albums have been dreary lately, but this reminds us why we are keeping her around.
2013 has been a great year for fun pop songs getting into the upper portion of the Billboard HOT 100 Singles chart. Here's my Top 10 favorite songs of the year:
Come and Get It - Selena Gomez
For the past five years Selena Gomez has been delivering some of the best dance pop music out there, but none of her songs managed to really crossover to the pop mainstream. Finally in 2013 the timing was right for one of her singles to reach the Top 10 of the Billboard HOT 100. Come and Get It is simply pop music perfection with its catching beat and sing a long chorus. It is so nice to see one of the Disney kids grow up in front of us and be so beautiful and professional.
Get Lucky - Daft Punk
Upon first listen you might have thought you were hearing a vintage disco classic, but this dance jam was brand new and taking over radio airplay. Daft Punk have now found themselves nominated for the Grammy for Record of the Year with this outstanding single.
The Way - Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande successfully embarked on her pop crossover career apart from work on Nickelodeon TV shows with this 90's retro R&B track. Her vocals are reminiscent of Mariah Carey and she presents herself with the highest standard of class and poise. It will be nice to see a lot more of her in the future.
Safe and Sound - Capital Cities
All of the pieces come together perfectly making this song impossible to not like. And the fact that the video is full of so many awesome styles of dancing pushes it up even higher on the list of favorites.
Can't Hold Us - Macklemore and Ryan Lewis
Their album The Heist is packed with hits, but this is the one that I had playing in heavy rotation all year long. It is the dance party anthem of the year!
Best Song Ever - One Direction
One Direction proved that they had staying power, at least for another year, by releasing super fun songs and videos like this.
Roar - Katy Perry
In 2013 Katy proved that she is still the master at serving up the perfect combination of a catchy pop song with an amazing video. This time she went deep into the jungle to deliver this empowering anthem.
When I Was Your Man - Bruno Mars
In this era of Electronic Dance Music domination it is very rare that a tender ballad reaches the top of the charts, Bruno Mars released something that was too good to be ignored. So take heed listeners and treat your boyfriends right while you have them!
Applause - Lady Gaga
The first single from her ArtPop collection is catchy, fun and completely describes the driving force for many to perform in front of the crowds. I mean really, why rehearse for weeks if no audience is there to shower you with praise when you finally perform?
Feel This Moment - Christina Aguilera with Pitbull
Thank goodness Christina found an outlet for her vocal talents on this high energy collaboration with Pitbull. Her solo albums have been dreary lately, but this reminds us why we are keeping her around.
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
2013 Year End Charts
The #1 album on the Billboard charts for all of 2013 is The 20/20/ Experience by Justin Timbelake.
There were some very strong showings from the Miss American Idol finalists on the 2013 year end charts. The Season 11 Miss American Idol winner, Phillip Phillips has the highest ranking at #14 with his album The World From The Side Of The Moon. The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood comes in at #31 with her album Blown Away. The Greatest Hits album by Season 1 Miss American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson lands at #42. The Season 10 Miss American Idol winner, Scotty McCreery, comes in at #98 with his holiday collection Christmas With Scotty McCreery. Side Effects of You from the Season 3 Miss American Idol winner Fantasia is the #104 album of the year. The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson also ends the year at #170 with her holiday collection, Wrapped in Red.
The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood had the #9 Country Album of the year with Blown Away. The Season 10 Miss American Idol winner, Scotty McCreery, has two albums on this chart. Christmas with Scotty McCreery is at #25 and he comes in at #47 on this chart with his debut album Clear As Day.
The Top 5 singles for 2012 on the Billboard HOT 100 are: #1 Thrift Shop by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, #2 Blurred Lines by Robin Thicke, #3 Radioactive by Imagine Dragons, #4 Harlem Shake by Baauer and at #5 Can't Hold Us by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis.
The Miss American Idol finalist who makes the highest showing on the year end singles chart is Season 11 Miss American Idol winner Phillip Phillips with Home at #46 as well as Gone Gone Gone at #61. The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson is on the year end chart at #68 with Catch My Breath.
The Miss American Idol winners also had an impressive showing on the Billboard 2013 Top Artists of the Year chart: The Season 11 Miss American Idol winner, Phillip Phillips ends up at #26 while The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood comes in at #43. The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson lands at #47.
There were some very strong showings from the Miss American Idol finalists on the 2013 year end charts. The Season 11 Miss American Idol winner, Phillip Phillips has the highest ranking at #14 with his album The World From The Side Of The Moon. The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood comes in at #31 with her album Blown Away. The Greatest Hits album by Season 1 Miss American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson lands at #42. The Season 10 Miss American Idol winner, Scotty McCreery, comes in at #98 with his holiday collection Christmas With Scotty McCreery. Side Effects of You from the Season 3 Miss American Idol winner Fantasia is the #104 album of the year. The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson also ends the year at #170 with her holiday collection, Wrapped in Red.
The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood had the #9 Country Album of the year with Blown Away. The Season 10 Miss American Idol winner, Scotty McCreery, has two albums on this chart. Christmas with Scotty McCreery is at #25 and he comes in at #47 on this chart with his debut album Clear As Day.
The Top 5 singles for 2012 on the Billboard HOT 100 are: #1 Thrift Shop by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, #2 Blurred Lines by Robin Thicke, #3 Radioactive by Imagine Dragons, #4 Harlem Shake by Baauer and at #5 Can't Hold Us by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis.
The Miss American Idol finalist who makes the highest showing on the year end singles chart is Season 11 Miss American Idol winner Phillip Phillips with Home at #46 as well as Gone Gone Gone at #61. The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson is on the year end chart at #68 with Catch My Breath.
The Miss American Idol winners also had an impressive showing on the Billboard 2013 Top Artists of the Year chart: The Season 11 Miss American Idol winner, Phillip Phillips ends up at #26 while The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood comes in at #43. The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson lands at #47.
Sunday, December 22, 2013
American Idol Grammy Nominations
The nominations for the 56th Annual Grammy Awards were announced, and an impressive eight nominations went to three Miss AMERICAN IDOL finalists and one IDOL judge.
The Season 3 Miss American Idol winner, Fantasia, got three nominations:
Best Traditional R&B Performance for "Get It Right"
Best R&B Song for "Without Me" feat. Kelly Rowland and Missy Elliot
Best Urban Contemporary Album for Side Effects of You
This makes Fantasia an 11-time Grammy nominee! She won the award once in 2010 for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for “Bittersweet.”
The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, got one nomination:
Best Country Duo/Group Performance "Don't Rush" feat. Vince Gill
Kelly will be going up against Idol judge Keith Urban in this category for his song "Highway Don't Care" with Tim McGraw and Taylor Swift
This is also Kelly Clarkson's 11th nomination, and she's won three times before!
The Season 5 Miss American Idol 8th Runner Up, Mandisa, also has three nominations:
Best Gospel/Contemporary Christian Music Performance "Overcomer"
Best Contemporary Christian Music Song "Overcomer"
Best Contemporary Christian Music Album "Overcomer
Mandisa has received three Grammy nominations previously in her career, and that number has now doubled to six.
The Grammy Award winners will be announced on January 26, 2014.
The Season 3 Miss American Idol winner, Fantasia, got three nominations:
Best Traditional R&B Performance for "Get It Right"
Best R&B Song for "Without Me" feat. Kelly Rowland and Missy Elliot
Best Urban Contemporary Album for Side Effects of You
This makes Fantasia an 11-time Grammy nominee! She won the award once in 2010 for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for “Bittersweet.”
The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, got one nomination:
Best Country Duo/Group Performance "Don't Rush" feat. Vince Gill
Kelly will be going up against Idol judge Keith Urban in this category for his song "Highway Don't Care" with Tim McGraw and Taylor Swift
This is also Kelly Clarkson's 11th nomination, and she's won three times before!
The Season 5 Miss American Idol 8th Runner Up, Mandisa, also has three nominations:
Best Gospel/Contemporary Christian Music Performance "Overcomer"
Best Contemporary Christian Music Song "Overcomer"
Best Contemporary Christian Music Album "Overcomer
Mandisa has received three Grammy nominations previously in her career, and that number has now doubled to six.
The Grammy Award winners will be announced on January 26, 2014.
American Country Awards 2013
For the fourth year in a row the Miss American Idol finalists came out as a dominant presence at the American Country Awards.
Season 5 finalist and Dancing With The Stars winner, Kellie Pickler, delivered a wonderful performance of her latest single from her 4th album, The Woman I Am. The album made its debut last month on Billboard's Top Country Albums chart at #4 with first week sales of 16,000.
The Season 10 Miss American Idol winner and 1st runner up, Scotty McCreery and Lauren Alaina, made an appearance together as presenters. Scotty, who is continuing to have successful album sales with his 3rd release, See You Tonight, ended up winning the award for Breakthrough Artist of the Year.
The Supreme Miss American idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood, won the award for Favorite Music Video by a Female Artist for Blown Away. This win along with her 11 previous awards, make her the female artist with the most American Country Award wins in the history of the show.
Season 5 finalist and Dancing With The Stars winner, Kellie Pickler, delivered a wonderful performance of her latest single from her 4th album, The Woman I Am. The album made its debut last month on Billboard's Top Country Albums chart at #4 with first week sales of 16,000.
The Season 10 Miss American Idol winner and 1st runner up, Scotty McCreery and Lauren Alaina, made an appearance together as presenters. Scotty, who is continuing to have successful album sales with his 3rd release, See You Tonight, ended up winning the award for Breakthrough Artist of the Year.
The Supreme Miss American idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood, won the award for Favorite Music Video by a Female Artist for Blown Away. This win along with her 11 previous awards, make her the female artist with the most American Country Award wins in the history of the show.
21.3 Million Viewers for The Sound of Music
It seems that the Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood, is an even bigger star than we initially thought.
The superstar helped carry the three-hour production of the Sound of Music to the top of the ratings when it aired on Thursday night Dec. 5th on NBC. But while the initial reports were that the all-star cast, which also included ‘True Blood’ star Stephen Moyer and TV and Broadway actress Laura Benanti, earned 18.5 million viewers, new reports indicate that number is actually significantly higher.
According to the New York Times, once the number of delayed viewers (who watched at a later date on their DVR) were calculated, that number of viewers ballooned to 21.3 million — almost three million more than what was initially thought. The additional viewers also earned the show one more point in viewers between ages 18 to 49.
Carrie couldn’t be more pleased with the final result. “Glory to God tonight…I couldn’t be more proud,” she tweeted after the show. “What a tough thing to pull off and we did it! I am so blessed!!!”
She has every right to be proud, that's for sure! Just for pushing her own boundaries and for rising to this challenge. She has proven herself as a mutli-talented superstar who is not afraid of hard work, dedication and professionalism. I am impressed with all of the time, effort and energy that was put into this television event by so many people and I am pleased that the network plans on tackling a different musical next year during the holiday season.
Friday, December 6, 2013
American Music Awards
The 2013 American Music Awards have come and gone and there were no wins for the American Idol alumni association this year. Neither Carrie Underwood nor Phillip Phillips won their nominations in their respective categories, Favorite Country Female Artist and Favorite New Artist of the year.
The only presence of the American Idols came in the form of presenters. The Season 3 Miss American Idol finalist and Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson graced the stage as a presenter. She is currently promoting her new single, I Can't Describe. It's a fun R&B groove that I have been playing in heavy rotation on my playlist, but since it has failed to appear on any charts yet, I could be the only person playing it.
Season 5 Miss American Idol 3rd runner up, Chris Daughtry, was also there as a presenter. He is promoting the release of his 4th album, Baptized. The album has just made its debut on the Billboard Top 200 albums chart at #6 with just over 55,000 units sold. This means that all four of his albums have made it to the Top 10 on this chart. His last album, 2011's "Break the Spell," debuted and peaked at No. 8 off a start of 129,000.
The only presence of the American Idols came in the form of presenters. The Season 3 Miss American Idol finalist and Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson graced the stage as a presenter. She is currently promoting her new single, I Can't Describe. It's a fun R&B groove that I have been playing in heavy rotation on my playlist, but since it has failed to appear on any charts yet, I could be the only person playing it.
Season 5 Miss American Idol 3rd runner up, Chris Daughtry, was also there as a presenter. He is promoting the release of his 4th album, Baptized. The album has just made its debut on the Billboard Top 200 albums chart at #6 with just over 55,000 units sold. This means that all four of his albums have made it to the Top 10 on this chart. His last album, 2011's "Break the Spell," debuted and peaked at No. 8 off a start of 129,000.
Friday, November 22, 2013
Country Music Awards
Well, Country's Biggest Night, The CMA Awards have come and gone and none of the American Idols went home winners. They may not have won any awards, but they still made the best of things.
The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, was not only nominated for Female Vocalist of the Year, but she is now a full-fledged member of country music family. Reba is her mother-in-law!!! And there is also good news that was just announced - Kelly and her new husband are expecting their first child together.
The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood, was back hosting the CMA Awards for the 6th time with Brad Paisley. They were funnier than ever in their opening routine singing and telling jokes. The Season 5 Miss American finalist and Dancing With The Stars winner, Kellie Pickler, was even utilized during the opening segment to facilitate one of their jokes. Carrie also looked amazing in an assortment of glamorous and stylish gowns.
The CMA Awards are now history, but there is a second chance for these Miss American Idols to win at the upcoming American Country Awards. Carrie Underwood has four nominations including Touring Artist of the Year and Single by a Female Artist. Carrie is also competing against Kellie Pickler for Video by a Female Artist and against Kelly Clarkson for Female Artist of the Year.
The Winners of the American Country Awards will air live on Tuesday Dec. 10th.
The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, was not only nominated for Female Vocalist of the Year, but she is now a full-fledged member of country music family. Reba is her mother-in-law!!! And there is also good news that was just announced - Kelly and her new husband are expecting their first child together.
The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood, was back hosting the CMA Awards for the 6th time with Brad Paisley. They were funnier than ever in their opening routine singing and telling jokes. The Season 5 Miss American finalist and Dancing With The Stars winner, Kellie Pickler, was even utilized during the opening segment to facilitate one of their jokes. Carrie also looked amazing in an assortment of glamorous and stylish gowns.
The CMA Awards are now history, but there is a second chance for these Miss American Idols to win at the upcoming American Country Awards. Carrie Underwood has four nominations including Touring Artist of the Year and Single by a Female Artist. Carrie is also competing against Kellie Pickler for Video by a Female Artist and against Kelly Clarkson for Female Artist of the Year.
The Winners of the American Country Awards will air live on Tuesday Dec. 10th.
Saturday, November 9, 2013
Adam Lambert on Glee!
The Season 8 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up, Adam Lambert, has made his first appearance on the hit musical TV series, Glee.
Adam plays a struggling artist in New York who auditions to be in a band that is being formed by main character, Kurt Hummel. Adam's character goes by the name, Starchild, and he blows everyone away with his first song, a cover of the Lady Gaga hit, Marry The Night. It is a spectacular, over the top glam rock, high energy performance. Kurt is initially threatened by Starchild's talent, but he eventually gives in and agree to put him in the band.
There is definitely some flirtatious chemistry going on between Kurt and Starchild, so in coming episodes this could pose a threat to Kurt's engagement to Blaine who is back at him.
Adam plays a struggling artist in New York who auditions to be in a band that is being formed by main character, Kurt Hummel. Adam's character goes by the name, Starchild, and he blows everyone away with his first song, a cover of the Lady Gaga hit, Marry The Night. It is a spectacular, over the top glam rock, high energy performance. Kurt is initially threatened by Starchild's talent, but he eventually gives in and agree to put him in the band.
There is definitely some flirtatious chemistry going on between Kurt and Starchild, so in coming episodes this could pose a threat to Kurt's engagement to Blaine who is back at him.
Thursday, November 7, 2013
Ruben is not the Biggest Loser
Season 2 Miss American Idol winner Ruben Studdard has been eliminated from the show "The Biggest Loser" after failing to lose 11 pounds in a week. In just four weeks on the dieting and exercise show her lost a total of 39 pounds, but his team needed him to lose an extra 11 before Tuesday night's televised 'weigh-in', and he was asked to leave.
The 35-year-old, who, at his heaviest, tipped the scales at 462 pounds, said, "I worked really, really hard this week. I swam extra. I walked extra."
He then added, "This experience is one of the toughest things I've been through. I've been through two-a-day football practices; I've been through the 'American Idol' experience; I've been through a lot of mentally and physically challenging experiences in my life, and this ... ranks right up there at the top."
But he's determined to keep the weight off and lose more, revealing the show has given him the incentive he needed to slim down. He stated, "America, my voice may be soulful, but the next time you see me, my body will be sexy."
Friday, October 25, 2013
Seeing Scotty McCreery Tonight
The Season 10 Miss American Idol winner, Scotty McCreery, makes his debut at #6 this week on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart with his album, See You Tonight. It sold 52,000 copies in its first week. This was good enough for a #1 debut on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart this week. His rookie album "Clear as Day" opened at #1 two years ago on both the Billboard Top 200 Albums and the Top Country Albums charts. .
Scotty McCreery becomes the second solo male to debut at No. 1 with his first two sets of original material in the nearly 50-year history of Billboard's Top Country Albums chart.
"See You Tonight," McCreery's title-cut lead single from his new set, grabs Digital Gainer honors on Hot Country Songs (19,000 downloads sold, up 94%) and jumps 36-32 on the list, its best rank since it debuted at No. 28 on the April 27 chart. The track also reaches a new peak of No. 30 on the Nielsen BDS-based Country Airplay scorecard.
Scotty McCreery becomes the second solo male to debut at No. 1 with his first two sets of original material in the nearly 50-year history of Billboard's Top Country Albums chart.
"See You Tonight," McCreery's title-cut lead single from his new set, grabs Digital Gainer honors on Hot Country Songs (19,000 downloads sold, up 94%) and jumps 36-32 on the list, its best rank since it debuted at No. 28 on the April 27 chart. The track also reaches a new peak of No. 30 on the Nielsen BDS-based Country Airplay scorecard.
Friday, October 11, 2013
American Idols nominated at the American Music Awards!
The nominations were just announced for the 2013 American Music Awards and the names of a couple of Miss American Idol winners were on the list.
Season 11 Miss American Idol winner, Phillip Phillips, has been able to stay on the airwaves for over a year with his coronation anthem, Home. It was used last year as the theme song for the USA Olympics Women's Gymnastics Team and it seems like almost every insurance company is also using it in their commercials. All of this attention has lead Phillip to be nominated for the American Music Awards New Artist of the Year.
The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood, is nominated for Favorite Female Artist - Country once again this year.
Voting for the American Music Awards is done online by the fans by going to https://ama.votenow.tv/
Fans can vote once a day. The show will air on ABC on Sunday November 24th.
Season 11 Miss American Idol winner, Phillip Phillips, has been able to stay on the airwaves for over a year with his coronation anthem, Home. It was used last year as the theme song for the USA Olympics Women's Gymnastics Team and it seems like almost every insurance company is also using it in their commercials. All of this attention has lead Phillip to be nominated for the American Music Awards New Artist of the Year.
The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood, is nominated for Favorite Female Artist - Country once again this year.
Voting for the American Music Awards is done online by the fans by going to https://ama.votenow.tv/
Fans can vote once a day. The show will air on ABC on Sunday November 24th.
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
More Ruben Studdard
It has been a decade since Ruben Studdard was crowned the Season 2 Miss American Idol winner and launched a successful music career. Now he returns to television on a very different stage, Season 15 of the Biggest Loser, hoping to lose weight and learn how to live a healthy lifestyle.
This is not the first time a Miss American Idol finalist has participated in another reality competition show. Earlier this year, Season 5 finalist Kellie Pickler danced away with the championship mirror ball on Dancing With The Stars. Last year the Season 2 Miss American Idol 1st runner up, Clay Aiken, ended up being the 1st runner up again, but this time it was on the Celebrity Apprentice.
Born in Germany and raised in Birmingham, Alabama with an older brother, Ruben recalls being overweight since the age of 10. He received a football scholarship to Alabama A&M University, where he studied music, but continued to struggle with his weight as an adult due to a poor diet. "When I turned 34, I realized I wasn't young anymore," he says, "and that I wanted to live a long time. It was time for a change." Now 35 years old and 462 pounds, Ruben suffers from sleep apnea and high blood pressure.
Professionally, the Velvet Teddy Bear (as nicknamed by Gladys Knight for his smoothly soothing vocal style) is a Grammy-nominated artist with a number of gold and platinum albums. His urban radio hits include "Sorry 2004," "Superstar," "Make Ya Feel Beautiful" and "Change Me," and he also scored a No. 1 gospel hit with the song "I Need an Angel." In addition, he created The Ruben Studdard Foundation for the Advancement of Children in the Music Arts, promoting the arts in education through learning initiatives for students in the Birmingham area.
After all his accomplishments, Ruben now hopes to achieve success in the weight-loss arena, and most looks forward to shopping for clothes and going to an amusement park after he loses the weight.
The Biggest Loser premiers on Tuesday Oct. 15th. Tune in the see if Ruben can win it all.
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
CMA Nominees 2013
Country Music's Biggest Night is coming up on Wed. Nov. 6th. That's when the 47th Annual CMA Awards will be handed out. For the 6th year in a row, the Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood, will be co-hosting the show along with Brad Paisley.
The nominations were just announced today and American Idol judge, Keith Urban, is up for Male Vocalist of the Year. He is also included in three other nominations as the lead guitarist on Tim McGraw's song Highway Don't Care which is up for Single of the Year, Video of the Year and Musical Event of the Year.
The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, is continuing to be embraced by the country music community with couple of nominations. One is for her performance with Vince Gill of Don't Rush for Musical Event of the Year and the other is for Female Vocalist of the Year.
The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood is also a multiple nominee to go along with her hosting duties. The video for Blown Away was already recognized at the CMT Awards as the Video of the Year and now it has been nominated for Video of the Year at the CMA's. The full album, Blown Away is nominated for Album of the Year and Carrie has her eighth nomination for Female Vocalist of the Year.
The nominations were just announced today and American Idol judge, Keith Urban, is up for Male Vocalist of the Year. He is also included in three other nominations as the lead guitarist on Tim McGraw's song Highway Don't Care which is up for Single of the Year, Video of the Year and Musical Event of the Year.
The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, is continuing to be embraced by the country music community with couple of nominations. One is for her performance with Vince Gill of Don't Rush for Musical Event of the Year and the other is for Female Vocalist of the Year.
The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood is also a multiple nominee to go along with her hosting duties. The video for Blown Away was already recognized at the CMT Awards as the Video of the Year and now it has been nominated for Video of the Year at the CMA's. The full album, Blown Away is nominated for Album of the Year and Carrie has her eighth nomination for Female Vocalist of the Year.
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
2013 VMA's
The 2013 MTV Video Music Awards will go down in history as the night that Miley Cyris made a complete fool of herself. It was also a very big night for Justin Timberlake, but hidden in all of the drama was a couple of highlights from the American Idols.
The overriding theme of the night was the support for marriage equality. All of the artists from Lady Gaga to Katy Perry have been very outspoken that the time has come for change. The Season 8 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up, Adam Lambert, has already come out as an out and proud gay man quite a few years ago, so he was a natural to be on stage as a presenter this year.
The Moonman for best Video with a Social Message was presented to macklemore and ryan for their song Same Love. When they performed the song live, the female vocalist who sings the chorus, Mary Lambert, was on hand at the beginning, but she stepped aside when the Season 3 Miss American Idol finalist and Oscar winner, Jennifer Hudson took the stage and added her amazing voice to the song.
The overriding theme of the night was the support for marriage equality. All of the artists from Lady Gaga to Katy Perry have been very outspoken that the time has come for change. The Season 8 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up, Adam Lambert, has already come out as an out and proud gay man quite a few years ago, so he was a natural to be on stage as a presenter this year.
The Moonman for best Video with a Social Message was presented to macklemore and ryan for their song Same Love. When they performed the song live, the female vocalist who sings the chorus, Mary Lambert, was on hand at the beginning, but she stepped aside when the Season 3 Miss American Idol finalist and Oscar winner, Jennifer Hudson took the stage and added her amazing voice to the song.
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
Carrie wins Video of the Year - AGAIN!!!!
The 2013 CMT Video Music Awards was a very fun night of great music and once again, there was a parade of Miss American Idol winners and finalists.
Things got off to a great start when the Season 10 Miss American Idol winner, Scotty McCreery was paired with Season 5 Miss American Idol finalist and the 2013 Dancing With The Stars winner, Kellie Pickler to present the Buckle for the CMT Breakthrough Video of the Year. This is an award that Scotty just won last year and Kellie also won when she made her debut.
The Season 12 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up, Kree Harrison, got her welcome to the CMT family when she performed her single All Cried Out for the crowd.
American Idol judge, Keith Urban took the stage to perform two times through the night. The first time he sang his latest single, Little Bit of Everything. Then later in the show he returned to add his extra special guitar solo flair to a great performance with Little Big Town as they sang a cover of the Fleetwood Mac classic Chains.
The best performance of the night was saved for last as the Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood graced the stage to perform her latest single, See You Again. It's an amazing heartfelt song on its own, but tonight she dedicated it to her home state of Oklahoma that has recently been devastated by tornadoes. She was joined on stage with a gospel chorus as she delivered the final verse packing a tear filled emotional punch for all of the listeners.
Shortly after the amazing performance of See You Again, the Supreme Miss American Idol's name was called to the stage to accept the biggest award of the night. Carrie Underwood and Blown Away won the CMT Buckle for the 2013 VIDEO OF THE YEAR!
Things got off to a great start when the Season 10 Miss American Idol winner, Scotty McCreery was paired with Season 5 Miss American Idol finalist and the 2013 Dancing With The Stars winner, Kellie Pickler to present the Buckle for the CMT Breakthrough Video of the Year. This is an award that Scotty just won last year and Kellie also won when she made her debut.
The Season 12 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up, Kree Harrison, got her welcome to the CMT family when she performed her single All Cried Out for the crowd.
American Idol judge, Keith Urban took the stage to perform two times through the night. The first time he sang his latest single, Little Bit of Everything. Then later in the show he returned to add his extra special guitar solo flair to a great performance with Little Big Town as they sang a cover of the Fleetwood Mac classic Chains.
The best performance of the night was saved for last as the Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood graced the stage to perform her latest single, See You Again. It's an amazing heartfelt song on its own, but tonight she dedicated it to her home state of Oklahoma that has recently been devastated by tornadoes. She was joined on stage with a gospel chorus as she delivered the final verse packing a tear filled emotional punch for all of the listeners.
Shortly after the amazing performance of See You Again, the Supreme Miss American Idol's name was called to the stage to accept the biggest award of the night. Carrie Underwood and Blown Away won the CMT Buckle for the 2013 VIDEO OF THE YEAR!
This is especially impressive in that she just won this same top honor last year when her video for Good Girl won the CMT Buckle for the 2012 Video of the Year.
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Kellie Pickler!!!!
Congratulations to Season 5 Miss American Idol finalist Kellie Pickler who sailed to Mirror Ball victory this year on Dancing With The Stars!
Her effervescent personality along with her outstanding dance moves endeared her to the both the panel of judges as well as the voting public. She was a favorite from the beginning and honestly had no serious competition along the way.
We already love her for wonderful songs like Red High Heels and Best Days of Your Life so now we can love her for her high kicks and spins too! There is serious talk that she should take her talents to the next level and star in a Broadway musical for a future project. I would love to see that!
Her effervescent personality along with her outstanding dance moves endeared her to the both the panel of judges as well as the voting public. She was a favorite from the beginning and honestly had no serious competition along the way.
We already love her for wonderful songs like Red High Heels and Best Days of Your Life so now we can love her for her high kicks and spins too! There is serious talk that she should take her talents to the next level and star in a Broadway musical for a future project. I would love to see that!
Friday, May 17, 2013
And the Season 12 Miss American Idol winner is....
Candice and Kree shared the stage for one last duet together on One Less Bell To Answer/A House is Not A Home. They then both went center stage to have the final results revealed. The Season 12 Miss American Idol winner is.... CANDICE GLOVER!
She sang her debut single I Am Beautiful, and the glitter fell around her. After three years of trying out for American Idol she finally made it all the way to the top. It was emotionally overwhelming and she simply couldn't hold back her tears of joy.
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Candice VS. Kree
Tonight Candice Glover will go head to head with Kree Harrison in their final face off for the Season 12 Miss American Idol crown. They will each sing three songs. The first one will be selected by the American Idol producer, the second song will be their debut single, and the third song will their own choice of their favorite performance from the season.
The Idol producer's selected the 1997 hit from Sarah Mclachlan, Angel, for Kree to get started. This song is very sad and forlorn so it set her up to be even more dreary and meloncholy than usual. It was good, but Kree's voice lacks a unique quality that sets it apart and makes it stand out. Not a good start for her.
The Idol producers selected the 2008 hit from Adele, Chasing Pavements, for Candice to get started. This song is a good sample of the kind of music that could be hits for her in the future. It showed off her voice perfectly and it is just the right blend of pop and R&B to appeal to a wide audience. Very good start for her.
The original song for Kree is called All Cried Out and it is a wonderful country ballad that showcased her voice and style better than anything she has done all season so far. There was finally some emotional depth to her interpretation and her vocals were the perfect fit. If she can pull together an album with stuff like this, she might actually have some hit potential after all.
The original song for Candice is called I Am Beautiful and it is a triumphant anthem of empowerment and acceptance. Candice had total command of every lyric as though she connected personally to each word. This song is very current and will fit right in to what radio is playing these days. Her voice was wonderful on it.
For her favorite song of the season Kree selected Up To The Mountain, which I think was a mistake. Simply put, the Season 9 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up, Crystal Bowersox, did this same song during her finale and she flat out did it better. Kree's voice is flat and plain in comparison. Kree needs to stop doing covers and stick to original material selected just for her.
For her favorite song of the season Candice selected I Who Have Nothing, which was a stellar choice. The fact is that Candice has an exceptional vocal range and she can truly step up to the plate and easily handle a challenging song like this. She tore the roof off the theater with her amazing and impressive encore performance.
This year my prediction for the Season 12 Miss American Idol winner is that I think Candice Glover SHOULD win, but I think that Kree Harrison WILL win.
The Idol producer's selected the 1997 hit from Sarah Mclachlan, Angel, for Kree to get started. This song is very sad and forlorn so it set her up to be even more dreary and meloncholy than usual. It was good, but Kree's voice lacks a unique quality that sets it apart and makes it stand out. Not a good start for her.
The Idol producers selected the 2008 hit from Adele, Chasing Pavements, for Candice to get started. This song is a good sample of the kind of music that could be hits for her in the future. It showed off her voice perfectly and it is just the right blend of pop and R&B to appeal to a wide audience. Very good start for her.
The original song for Kree is called All Cried Out and it is a wonderful country ballad that showcased her voice and style better than anything she has done all season so far. There was finally some emotional depth to her interpretation and her vocals were the perfect fit. If she can pull together an album with stuff like this, she might actually have some hit potential after all.
The original song for Candice is called I Am Beautiful and it is a triumphant anthem of empowerment and acceptance. Candice had total command of every lyric as though she connected personally to each word. This song is very current and will fit right in to what radio is playing these days. Her voice was wonderful on it.
For her favorite song of the season Kree selected Up To The Mountain, which I think was a mistake. Simply put, the Season 9 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up, Crystal Bowersox, did this same song during her finale and she flat out did it better. Kree's voice is flat and plain in comparison. Kree needs to stop doing covers and stick to original material selected just for her.
For her favorite song of the season Candice selected I Who Have Nothing, which was a stellar choice. The fact is that Candice has an exceptional vocal range and she can truly step up to the plate and easily handle a challenging song like this. She tore the roof off the theater with her amazing and impressive encore performance.
This year my prediction for the Season 12 Miss American Idol winner is that I think Candice Glover SHOULD win, but I think that Kree Harrison WILL win.
Thursday, May 9, 2013
The Results - Top 3
The Top 3 finalists opened the show with a group performance of the Selena Gomez hit from last year, Who Says. The sound quality was terrible and they could barely be heard, but one thing was for certain - Angie and Candice easily out sang Kree.
The Season 10 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up, Lauren Alaina, has done pretty well over the past couple of years. She released a very fun song called Georgia Peaches that keeps the fans dancing and she also won the Best New Artist award at the 2012 American Country Awards. Tonight she made her return to the American Idol stage to perform her new single, Barefoot and Buckwild. It's another summer fun anthem that has lots of hit potential.
American Idol judge, Mariah Carey, has just released her latest single. It's a duet with R&B singer Miguel and it's called Beautiful. After spending a little time in the studio with the top 3 finalists, the video for Beautiful made its world premiere. The song is a completely fresh sounding, original jam about the joy of riding on the back of a motorcycle. The video completely captures the raw energy of having the wind blow through your hair while holding on tight and feeling the thrill. Mariah looks flawlessly stunning as she is dancing in the moonlight while Miguel watches.
Grammy winning hit-maker Alicia Keys then made an appearance to sing her latest single Tears Always Win. Her performance was similar to the kind of vocal perfection and musicianship we can expect from finalist Angie Miller when she releases her first album.
The shocking results were then revealed that Candice Glover will be facing off against Kree Harrison in the American Idol Season 12 Finale. Somehow Angie Miller did not get enough votes and she has been eliminated. She is now robbed of the winning the Miss American Idol crown. It makes no sense at all.
Unless Kree miraculously gets a personality and some stage presence, Candice should now easily win it all next week.
The Season 10 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up, Lauren Alaina, has done pretty well over the past couple of years. She released a very fun song called Georgia Peaches that keeps the fans dancing and she also won the Best New Artist award at the 2012 American Country Awards. Tonight she made her return to the American Idol stage to perform her new single, Barefoot and Buckwild. It's another summer fun anthem that has lots of hit potential.
American Idol judge, Mariah Carey, has just released her latest single. It's a duet with R&B singer Miguel and it's called Beautiful. After spending a little time in the studio with the top 3 finalists, the video for Beautiful made its world premiere. The song is a completely fresh sounding, original jam about the joy of riding on the back of a motorcycle. The video completely captures the raw energy of having the wind blow through your hair while holding on tight and feeling the thrill. Mariah looks flawlessly stunning as she is dancing in the moonlight while Miguel watches.
Grammy winning hit-maker Alicia Keys then made an appearance to sing her latest single Tears Always Win. Her performance was similar to the kind of vocal perfection and musicianship we can expect from finalist Angie Miller when she releases her first album.
The shocking results were then revealed that Candice Glover will be facing off against Kree Harrison in the American Idol Season 12 Finale. Somehow Angie Miller did not get enough votes and she has been eliminated. She is now robbed of the winning the Miss American Idol crown. It makes no sense at all.
Unless Kree miraculously gets a personality and some stage presence, Candice should now easily win it all next week.
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
The Top 3 Sing
The Top 3 finalists will all sing three songs tonight: The first one will be selected by mentor Jimmy Iovine, The second will be selected by Mariah Carey and the rest of the judges and the third will be selected by the American Idol producers.
Round One:
Kree Harrison started out the night with Perfect that was a hit for Pink in 2011. The song has a nice message, but vocally it didn't offer her much to do. Overall it was a flat and lackluster performance.
Candice Glover put her own spin on One by U2 from 1991. Her outstanding vocals were a wonderful match this song. She sounded like a pro.
Angie Miller took on the hit that Elton John took to #6 in 1976, Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word. It was subtle, lovely and showed off her entire vocal range. She decided to just stand center stage rather than play piano and the choice completely worked in her favor.
Round Two:
The judges chose Next To Me by Emile Sande that is currently #36 this week on the Billboard HOT 100 for Candice Glover to sing. It allowed her to perform something fresh and vibrant while also showcasing her exceptional vocal abilities.
The judges chose Try by Pink that peaked at #9 in 2012 for Angie Miller to sing. This is an example of a finalist delivering a performance that far surpasses the original. Angie's vocal range is nothing short of incredible and she brought amazing energy and presence to the stage.
The judges chose Here Comes Goodye by Rascal Flatts for Kree Harrison to sing. Once again, it was a simple little song that when paired with her bland performance style left no impression to speak of.
Round Three:
For the first time in the evening Angie Miller sat at the piano for her performance of Maybe by Emile Sande that the American Idol producers selected for her. With this performance she illustrated the bottom line that separates her from the other finalists: Angie is the total package. She is an exceptional singer with the most impressive vocal range, she looks amazing every time she takes the stage and she is an accomplished musician. On top of that, she is also a songwriter. She should easily make it to the finals next week and she should be the ultimate winner as well.
That sound you hear is the energy being sucked out of the room when Kree Harrison starts to sing. She contributed nothing to Better Dig Two by The Band Perry that the American Idol producers selected for her. It sounded even more dreary and morbid than the original.
At only 23 years old, the American Idol producers added a few decades to Candice Glover's age with their selection of Somewhere from the classic musical West Side Story. Now that being said, she definitely has the vocal skill necessary to do it justice. Very well done.
After seeing and hearing all of these performances tonight it became very clear that Angie and Candice should be the ones to make it to the finals next week. They are stepping up their game and delivering outstanding performances every time. Kree does not seem to be putting much effort into her performances and she should be eliminated tomorrow night.
Round One:
Kree Harrison started out the night with Perfect that was a hit for Pink in 2011. The song has a nice message, but vocally it didn't offer her much to do. Overall it was a flat and lackluster performance.
Candice Glover put her own spin on One by U2 from 1991. Her outstanding vocals were a wonderful match this song. She sounded like a pro.
Angie Miller took on the hit that Elton John took to #6 in 1976, Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word. It was subtle, lovely and showed off her entire vocal range. She decided to just stand center stage rather than play piano and the choice completely worked in her favor.
Round Two:
The judges chose Next To Me by Emile Sande that is currently #36 this week on the Billboard HOT 100 for Candice Glover to sing. It allowed her to perform something fresh and vibrant while also showcasing her exceptional vocal abilities.
The judges chose Try by Pink that peaked at #9 in 2012 for Angie Miller to sing. This is an example of a finalist delivering a performance that far surpasses the original. Angie's vocal range is nothing short of incredible and she brought amazing energy and presence to the stage.
The judges chose Here Comes Goodye by Rascal Flatts for Kree Harrison to sing. Once again, it was a simple little song that when paired with her bland performance style left no impression to speak of.
Round Three:
For the first time in the evening Angie Miller sat at the piano for her performance of Maybe by Emile Sande that the American Idol producers selected for her. With this performance she illustrated the bottom line that separates her from the other finalists: Angie is the total package. She is an exceptional singer with the most impressive vocal range, she looks amazing every time she takes the stage and she is an accomplished musician. On top of that, she is also a songwriter. She should easily make it to the finals next week and she should be the ultimate winner as well.
That sound you hear is the energy being sucked out of the room when Kree Harrison starts to sing. She contributed nothing to Better Dig Two by The Band Perry that the American Idol producers selected for her. It sounded even more dreary and morbid than the original.
At only 23 years old, the American Idol producers added a few decades to Candice Glover's age with their selection of Somewhere from the classic musical West Side Story. Now that being said, she definitely has the vocal skill necessary to do it justice. Very well done.
After seeing and hearing all of these performances tonight it became very clear that Angie and Candice should be the ones to make it to the finals next week. They are stepping up their game and delivering outstanding performances every time. Kree does not seem to be putting much effort into her performances and she should be eliminated tomorrow night.
Friday, May 3, 2013
Fantasia is #1
The Season 3 Miss American Idol winner, Fantasia, has made a strong debut at #1 on the Billboard top R&B albums chart with her fourth studio effort, Side Effects of You.
This was good enough for her to start out at #2 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart with one week total sales of 91,000. It matches the 2004 "American Idol" winner's highest rank, logged when her 2010 set "Back to Me" also debuted and peaked at No. 2 with first week sales of 117,000). However, "Side Effects" represents the smallest opening week for Fantasia, though it's not all that far from the sales start of "Back to Me" almost three years ago.
This was good enough for her to start out at #2 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart with one week total sales of 91,000. It matches the 2004 "American Idol" winner's highest rank, logged when her 2010 set "Back to Me" also debuted and peaked at No. 2 with first week sales of 117,000). However, "Side Effects" represents the smallest opening week for Fantasia, though it's not all that far from the sales start of "Back to Me" almost three years ago.
Thursday, May 2, 2013
The Results - Top 4 Again
The Top 4 finalists opened the show with a group performance of Beyonce's 1st #1 hit as a solo artist, 2003's Crazy In Love. Amber really stood out from the group with her exceptional vocals and sense of style.
The Season 7 Miss American Idol winner, David Cook, returned to the Idol stage to perform his latest single Laying Me Low. Hopefully this fun pop rock song will get him some success on the charts.
Will.I.Am then delivered some big band/hip hop fusion with a song called Bang Bang that is in the new film version of the Great Gatsby. It was pretty strange but still an interesting musical production.
This week's mentor, Harry Connick Jr., has a new album coming out in June and he took the stage to perform the title track. It's called Every Man Should Know.
The top three Season 12 finalists are Angie Miller, Candice Glover and Kree Harrison. That means that the wonderful Amber Holcomb has been eliminated. It's such a shame as she is very talented and would have made an outstanding Miss American Idol winner. She performed I Believe In You and Me one last time.
The Season 7 Miss American Idol winner, David Cook, returned to the Idol stage to perform his latest single Laying Me Low. Hopefully this fun pop rock song will get him some success on the charts.
Will.I.Am then delivered some big band/hip hop fusion with a song called Bang Bang that is in the new film version of the Great Gatsby. It was pretty strange but still an interesting musical production.
This week's mentor, Harry Connick Jr., has a new album coming out in June and he took the stage to perform the title track. It's called Every Man Should Know.
The top three Season 12 finalists are Angie Miller, Candice Glover and Kree Harrison. That means that the wonderful Amber Holcomb has been eliminated. It's such a shame as she is very talented and would have made an outstanding Miss American Idol winner. She performed I Believe In You and Me one last time.
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
The Top 4 Sing Again
Tonight the top 4 finalists will each sing two songs. The 1st one will be a song that is a current hit in 2013 and the 2nd will be a classic standard.
Angie Miller started out the night at the piano with her heartfelt rendition of Rihanna's most recent #1 hit, Diamonds. Angie completely made the song her own and injected some new personality and punch to the song. For her second song Angie graced the stage in a lovely long gown and her beautiful vocals on Some One To Watch Over Me. She is a poised and polished entertainer all around.
Amber Holcomb selected the current hit by Pink called Just Give Me A Reason. The song itself is not very good and not very catchy, but Amber's exceptional vocals were easily better than the original. Since this performance was somewhat lackluster, it's a good thing she could come back and apply her amazing voice to the classic, My Funny Valentine. It was an outstanding moment in the spotlight for her.
Candice Glover added her own special vocals to the current #1 hit by Bruno Mars, When I Was Your Man. She sounded incredible and she made the lyrics really mean something with her interpretation. Her classic selection was You've Changed and she once again turned things up a notch with the perfect combination of her great voice connecting with the story being told in the lyrics.
Kree Harrison took on the current single from the Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood. She was just back on the American Idol stage a few weeks ago performing the song, so Kree's effort had a lot to live up to. Both on this song and on her second selection, Stormy Weather, the biggest weakness Kree has is prominently on display. She does not have a distinctive quality that sets her apart from other singers.
Angie, Amber and Candice should all make it into the top 3 because they are able to combine their outstanding vocals with an interesting and dynamic stage presence and personality. Because of their exceptional abilities, that leaves Kree as the finalist who should be going home this week.
Angie Miller started out the night at the piano with her heartfelt rendition of Rihanna's most recent #1 hit, Diamonds. Angie completely made the song her own and injected some new personality and punch to the song. For her second song Angie graced the stage in a lovely long gown and her beautiful vocals on Some One To Watch Over Me. She is a poised and polished entertainer all around.
Amber Holcomb selected the current hit by Pink called Just Give Me A Reason. The song itself is not very good and not very catchy, but Amber's exceptional vocals were easily better than the original. Since this performance was somewhat lackluster, it's a good thing she could come back and apply her amazing voice to the classic, My Funny Valentine. It was an outstanding moment in the spotlight for her.
Candice Glover added her own special vocals to the current #1 hit by Bruno Mars, When I Was Your Man. She sounded incredible and she made the lyrics really mean something with her interpretation. Her classic selection was You've Changed and she once again turned things up a notch with the perfect combination of her great voice connecting with the story being told in the lyrics.
Kree Harrison took on the current single from the Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood. She was just back on the American Idol stage a few weeks ago performing the song, so Kree's effort had a lot to live up to. Both on this song and on her second selection, Stormy Weather, the biggest weakness Kree has is prominently on display. She does not have a distinctive quality that sets her apart from other singers.
Angie, Amber and Candice should all make it into the top 3 because they are able to combine their outstanding vocals with an interesting and dynamic stage presence and personality. Because of their exceptional abilities, that leaves Kree as the finalist who should be going home this week.
Thursday, April 25, 2013
The Results - Top 4
The Top 4 finalists opened the show with a very good group performance of Alicia Keys' most recent hit, Girl On Fire. They all sounded great!
Season 10 finalist, Stefano Langone, has been working hard to release an album ever since his time on the show ended. Last season he returned to the American Idol stage to sing I'm On A Roll and it immediately became on of my favorite songs of the year, but there was no album released. And this season he is back once again. This time he performed a song called Yes To Love. It's another fun and catchy song with some serious hit potential. Hopefully this time an album won't be too far away.
The surprise appearance of the week came from pop singer Drake, who walked on stage to personally let Candice Glover know that he enjoyed her performance of his song last night.
The Season 9 Miss American Idol winner, Lee DeWyze, made a return visit to the American Idol stage to debut his new single, Silver Lining. Where he has unfortunately failed to have a hit since his win, this track actually sounds like something that could be played on rock radio and people might actually buy.
It turns out that this week no one is going to be sent home. Since the judges did not use their save this season, there is an extra week left in the competition before the finale. That means that no one has to go tonight. Ryan did reveal that Angie and Kree were the two top vote getters and Candice and Amber were the bottom two.
The totals from this weeks votes will be added to the totals from next weeks votes and that will determine who is the next finalist to get the boot.
Season 10 finalist, Stefano Langone, has been working hard to release an album ever since his time on the show ended. Last season he returned to the American Idol stage to sing I'm On A Roll and it immediately became on of my favorite songs of the year, but there was no album released. And this season he is back once again. This time he performed a song called Yes To Love. It's another fun and catchy song with some serious hit potential. Hopefully this time an album won't be too far away.
The surprise appearance of the week came from pop singer Drake, who walked on stage to personally let Candice Glover know that he enjoyed her performance of his song last night.
The Season 9 Miss American Idol winner, Lee DeWyze, made a return visit to the American Idol stage to debut his new single, Silver Lining. Where he has unfortunately failed to have a hit since his win, this track actually sounds like something that could be played on rock radio and people might actually buy.
It turns out that this week no one is going to be sent home. Since the judges did not use their save this season, there is an extra week left in the competition before the finale. That means that no one has to go tonight. Ryan did reveal that Angie and Kree were the two top vote getters and Candice and Amber were the bottom two.
The totals from this weeks votes will be added to the totals from next weeks votes and that will determine who is the next finalist to get the boot.
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
The Top 4 Sing
The Top 4 finalists will all sing two songs each. The 1st one will be anything of their own choosing and the 2nd will be a song from a one hit wonder.
Celine Dion spent four weeks at #1 in 1994 with The Power Love. Amber Holcomb completely radiated star quality with her flawless interpretation of this song. She looked beautiful in a sleek jumpsuit and sounded amazing. Wonderful!
Drake is a current hitmaker on the charts and Candice Glover used her outstanding voice to re-imagine one of his hits and make it her own. She has the ability to quite literally sing anything and be vocally impressive.
Kree Harrison, unlike the other finalists still left in the competition, hasn't grown very much. She started out good, but she is still stuck at the same place. Where the others have evolved and stepped up their range and performance style, Kree is the same old boring performer who is stagnating with her blank expressionless style.
Jessie J is another current hitmaker serving up a range of ballads and dance songs. Angie Miller is also an artist who is capable of delivering a broad range of musical styles. The song Who You Are was the perfect choice to represent the kind of artist Angie can be. Her musicianship at the piano was fantastic and her vocals were heartfelt and powerful.
Kree and Amber paired up for a duet on Adele's Rumor Has It and they both sounded very good. Amber easily has a more commanding stage presence than Kree. Then Candice and Angie showed them how it's done with their version of Rihanna's Stay. They are both better singers than Rihanna, so this was much more dramatic and powerful than the original.
Richard Harris is an accomplished actor who was a one hit wonder in 1968 with MacArthur Park that later become a huge disco smash by Donna Summer. Amber Holcomb demonstrated more of her start quality with this vocal tour de force. She looked and sounded confident and current even singing this song that is 45 years old!
Samantha Sang hit #3 with her one and only hit Emotion in 1978. Candice Glover did her best to inject some new life into this song with some strong vocals, but she is starting to settle into a smooth jazz groove. We know she is good, but she has to be careful not to coast.
In 1967 Procol Harum hit #5 with A Whiter Shade Of Pale. Kree Harrison got up there and served up another shade of boring. Her vocals are simply good, but they aren't distinctive and unique enough that will set her apart from the pack of other artists out there. And to make it worse, she has no personality to speak of.
We have to go all the way back to 1955 to find the one hit by Julie London that peaked at #9, Cry Me A River. Angie Miller exuded classic beauty and style with a lush and lovely rendition of this timeless song. Her vocal range was the most dynamic and impressive that it has ever been. She sounded crystal clear and totally pure.
This is an outstanding top four, but the one who is out of her league is Kree Harrison. She was already in the bottom two last week, and this week she should be coming to the end of her journey.
Celine Dion spent four weeks at #1 in 1994 with The Power Love. Amber Holcomb completely radiated star quality with her flawless interpretation of this song. She looked beautiful in a sleek jumpsuit and sounded amazing. Wonderful!
Drake is a current hitmaker on the charts and Candice Glover used her outstanding voice to re-imagine one of his hits and make it her own. She has the ability to quite literally sing anything and be vocally impressive.
Kree Harrison, unlike the other finalists still left in the competition, hasn't grown very much. She started out good, but she is still stuck at the same place. Where the others have evolved and stepped up their range and performance style, Kree is the same old boring performer who is stagnating with her blank expressionless style.
Jessie J is another current hitmaker serving up a range of ballads and dance songs. Angie Miller is also an artist who is capable of delivering a broad range of musical styles. The song Who You Are was the perfect choice to represent the kind of artist Angie can be. Her musicianship at the piano was fantastic and her vocals were heartfelt and powerful.
Kree and Amber paired up for a duet on Adele's Rumor Has It and they both sounded very good. Amber easily has a more commanding stage presence than Kree. Then Candice and Angie showed them how it's done with their version of Rihanna's Stay. They are both better singers than Rihanna, so this was much more dramatic and powerful than the original.
Richard Harris is an accomplished actor who was a one hit wonder in 1968 with MacArthur Park that later become a huge disco smash by Donna Summer. Amber Holcomb demonstrated more of her start quality with this vocal tour de force. She looked and sounded confident and current even singing this song that is 45 years old!
Samantha Sang hit #3 with her one and only hit Emotion in 1978. Candice Glover did her best to inject some new life into this song with some strong vocals, but she is starting to settle into a smooth jazz groove. We know she is good, but she has to be careful not to coast.
In 1967 Procol Harum hit #5 with A Whiter Shade Of Pale. Kree Harrison got up there and served up another shade of boring. Her vocals are simply good, but they aren't distinctive and unique enough that will set her apart from the pack of other artists out there. And to make it worse, she has no personality to speak of.
We have to go all the way back to 1955 to find the one hit by Julie London that peaked at #9, Cry Me A River. Angie Miller exuded classic beauty and style with a lush and lovely rendition of this timeless song. Her vocal range was the most dynamic and impressive that it has ever been. She sounded crystal clear and totally pure.
This is an outstanding top four, but the one who is out of her league is Kree Harrison. She was already in the bottom two last week, and this week she should be coming to the end of her journey.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
The Results - DIVAS
This is the first time in 12 Seasons of American Idol that the Top 5 finalists have all been girls. And on top of that, they are all very talented.
The Top 5 girls opened the show with a Disco Diva medley of some classics from the Queen of Disco, Donna Summer. They started with Last Dance, Heaven Knows, Dim All The Lights and closed with She Works Hard For The Money. They all did a great job.
Also adding to the Diva theme of the week was the surprise appearance from former American Idol judge and hit maker, Paula Abdul. She showed her appreciation and support for Candice who had just done a wonderful job with her interpretation of Paula's first #1 song, Straight Up.
The Season 2 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up, Clay Aiken, came back to the Idol stage to talk about the success of his charity, The National Inclusion Project, as well as remind us all that he is still one of the best vocalists to ever graduate from the competition. He performed an outstanding rendition of Bridge Over Troubled Water just like he did way back then during his time on the show.
The Season 3 Miss American Idol winner, Fantasia, has a new album coming out next week and she came back to perform the first single, Lose To Win. She tore the house down with her unique and passionate R&B style and impressive vocals.
It was then revealed that Kree and Janelle were the two lowest vote getters. When Janelle had to sing for her life she performed her amazing take on You Keep Me Hanging On, but it wasn't enough to convince the judges to use their save.
Unfortunately, I got my prediction wrong this week. It's sad to see the vibrant, likable and bubbly Janelle be eliminated while the drab and bland Kree is coming back for another chance.
The Top 5 girls opened the show with a Disco Diva medley of some classics from the Queen of Disco, Donna Summer. They started with Last Dance, Heaven Knows, Dim All The Lights and closed with She Works Hard For The Money. They all did a great job.
Also adding to the Diva theme of the week was the surprise appearance from former American Idol judge and hit maker, Paula Abdul. She showed her appreciation and support for Candice who had just done a wonderful job with her interpretation of Paula's first #1 song, Straight Up.
The Season 2 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up, Clay Aiken, came back to the Idol stage to talk about the success of his charity, The National Inclusion Project, as well as remind us all that he is still one of the best vocalists to ever graduate from the competition. He performed an outstanding rendition of Bridge Over Troubled Water just like he did way back then during his time on the show.
The Season 3 Miss American Idol winner, Fantasia, has a new album coming out next week and she came back to perform the first single, Lose To Win. She tore the house down with her unique and passionate R&B style and impressive vocals.
It was then revealed that Kree and Janelle were the two lowest vote getters. When Janelle had to sing for her life she performed her amazing take on You Keep Me Hanging On, but it wasn't enough to convince the judges to use their save.
Unfortunately, I got my prediction wrong this week. It's sad to see the vibrant, likable and bubbly Janelle be eliminated while the drab and bland Kree is coming back for another chance.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
The Top 5 - DIVAS!
The top 5 finalists will all be singing two songs each. The first will be a song from the year they were born and the second will be a selection from a legendary Diva.
Candice Glover was born in 1989 - the same year that Paula Abdul spent three weeks at #1 with Straight Up. Candice veered away from the dance beat and decided instead to focus on a lighter arrangement where her vocals shined through. But even more importantly, for the first time in the competition she expressed an ease and confidence with her style and stage presence.
Janelle Arthur was born in 1989 - the same year that Vince Gill had a hit with When I Call Your Name. This was a genuine and heartfelt moment of a beautiful voice and sweet personality sharing the gift of music with us. Janelle is so lovely and sincere you feel everything with her.
Kree Harrision was born in 1990 - the same year that She Talks To Angels was a hit for the Black Crowes. This song choice was step backwards for Kree. She was back to being a nameless and faceless voice who was given a microphone but has zero personality and stage presence.
Angie Miller was born in 1994 - The same year that The Pretenders had a hit with I'll Stand By You. This was an outstanding emotional and vocal live concert moment. Angie tore it up at the piano playing with perfection and her voice was totally beautiful.
Amber Holcomb was born in 1994 - The same year Without You was a #3 hit for Mariah Carey. So we all know it wasn't as amazing as Mariah's version, but it was still very good. Her voice is strong and she looked so completely wonderful in a sleek and stylish mini dress.
When You Believe brought Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston together for the first time. This double diva powerhouse ballad was a great opportunity for Candice to show off more of what she can do. It was all about her voice and she did it perfectly.
Dumb Blonde is an example of what makes Dolly Parton a legendary diva. Janelle is the perfect young diva who is capable of rocking the stage with this kind of song. She is vibrant and dynamic every time she gets on stage and her bouncy blonde hair and sparkly outfit were the ideal match for her great vocal performance.
Have You Ever Been In Love is a typical Celine Dion vocal throw down that exemplifies her as one of the greatest divas. Kree Harrison, unfortunately, doesn't even come close to how amazing Celine is. It was a weak effort in comparison to the greats. Kree lacks a distinctive quality that makes her special and unique.
Halo is a Beyonce diva moment and Angie Miller ran in here grabbed it for herself and completely stole the show. She looked incredible and her vocals displayed a pure and crystal clear resonance that knocked over all of the competition. It was like I was hearing this song for the first time. It was beautiful.
Barbra Streisand is the Diva standard that all others are judges against and Amber Holcomb effortlessly rose to the challenge. Her performance was grand, classic and divinely pure. What a lovely talent!
All five of the remaining finalists are very good, but one of them is noticeably lacking in all areas including vocal range, stage presence and style. Kree Harrison should be the lowest vote getter be sent home this week.
Candice Glover was born in 1989 - the same year that Paula Abdul spent three weeks at #1 with Straight Up. Candice veered away from the dance beat and decided instead to focus on a lighter arrangement where her vocals shined through. But even more importantly, for the first time in the competition she expressed an ease and confidence with her style and stage presence.
Janelle Arthur was born in 1989 - the same year that Vince Gill had a hit with When I Call Your Name. This was a genuine and heartfelt moment of a beautiful voice and sweet personality sharing the gift of music with us. Janelle is so lovely and sincere you feel everything with her.
Kree Harrision was born in 1990 - the same year that She Talks To Angels was a hit for the Black Crowes. This song choice was step backwards for Kree. She was back to being a nameless and faceless voice who was given a microphone but has zero personality and stage presence.
Angie Miller was born in 1994 - The same year that The Pretenders had a hit with I'll Stand By You. This was an outstanding emotional and vocal live concert moment. Angie tore it up at the piano playing with perfection and her voice was totally beautiful.
Amber Holcomb was born in 1994 - The same year Without You was a #3 hit for Mariah Carey. So we all know it wasn't as amazing as Mariah's version, but it was still very good. Her voice is strong and she looked so completely wonderful in a sleek and stylish mini dress.
When You Believe brought Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston together for the first time. This double diva powerhouse ballad was a great opportunity for Candice to show off more of what she can do. It was all about her voice and she did it perfectly.
Dumb Blonde is an example of what makes Dolly Parton a legendary diva. Janelle is the perfect young diva who is capable of rocking the stage with this kind of song. She is vibrant and dynamic every time she gets on stage and her bouncy blonde hair and sparkly outfit were the ideal match for her great vocal performance.
Have You Ever Been In Love is a typical Celine Dion vocal throw down that exemplifies her as one of the greatest divas. Kree Harrison, unfortunately, doesn't even come close to how amazing Celine is. It was a weak effort in comparison to the greats. Kree lacks a distinctive quality that makes her special and unique.
Halo is a Beyonce diva moment and Angie Miller ran in here grabbed it for herself and completely stole the show. She looked incredible and her vocals displayed a pure and crystal clear resonance that knocked over all of the competition. It was like I was hearing this song for the first time. It was beautiful.
Barbra Streisand is the Diva standard that all others are judges against and Amber Holcomb effortlessly rose to the challenge. Her performance was grand, classic and divinely pure. What a lovely talent!
All five of the remaining finalists are very good, but one of them is noticeably lacking in all areas including vocal range, stage presence and style. Kree Harrison should be the lowest vote getter be sent home this week.
Thursday, April 11, 2013
The Results - Top 6
Tonight, instead of opening the results show with a group performance we were treated to each of the top 6 finalists taking turns with a medley of Burt Bacharach and Hal David songs. The highlights included Lazaro doing This Guy's In Love With You and Amber and Candice performing A House Is Not A Home and One Less Bell To Answer. Unfortunately, Kree served up a totally flat and lifeless rendition of Always Something There To Remind. In the end, there was still a group performance in the 1986 #1 song, That's What Friends Are For.
Ever since becoming the Season 10 Miss American Idol winner, Scotty McCreery has made quite a name for himself in the business. His album, Clear As Day hit #1 on the charts, has sold over a million copies and he was won some pretty significant awards including Best New Artist at the 2012 Academy of Country Music Awards. Tonight he returned to the Idol stage to debut his new single See You Tonight.
Of course, the Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, hasn't done too shabby either. 20 million albums sold, 3 Grammy Awards and 3 #1 hits on the Billboard HOT 100 aren't the kind of stats that just anyone can rack up. She's done so well, that she has a hit packed Greatest Hits album. She performed a new song tonight from this collection called People Like Us.
Candice and Kree ended up being the top 2 vote getters while Lazaro and Amber were the bottom 2. Lazaro did a wonderful job when he had to sing for his life. He decided to really show off his vocal chops and charisma with a wonderful version of Feeling Good. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough for the judges to use their save, so he had to be leaving the competition. He will be missed.
I am sad to report that I was right with my predictions this week. I will just have to make a special effort to follow Lazaro on facebook.
Ever since becoming the Season 10 Miss American Idol winner, Scotty McCreery has made quite a name for himself in the business. His album, Clear As Day hit #1 on the charts, has sold over a million copies and he was won some pretty significant awards including Best New Artist at the 2012 Academy of Country Music Awards. Tonight he returned to the Idol stage to debut his new single See You Tonight.
Of course, the Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, hasn't done too shabby either. 20 million albums sold, 3 Grammy Awards and 3 #1 hits on the Billboard HOT 100 aren't the kind of stats that just anyone can rack up. She's done so well, that she has a hit packed Greatest Hits album. She performed a new song tonight from this collection called People Like Us.
Candice and Kree ended up being the top 2 vote getters while Lazaro and Amber were the bottom 2. Lazaro did a wonderful job when he had to sing for his life. He decided to really show off his vocal chops and charisma with a wonderful version of Feeling Good. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough for the judges to use their save, so he had to be leaving the competition. He will be missed.
I am sad to report that I was right with my predictions this week. I will just have to make a special effort to follow Lazaro on facebook.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
The Top 6 Perform
The Top 6 will each perform 2 songs tonight. Song #1 will be from the Burt Bacharach and Hal David catalog and song #2 will be a song the finalist wish they had written.
Anyone Who Had A Heart was a top 10 hit for Dionne Warwick in 1964. Angie Miller makes singing and hitting all of the range of notes in the song look effortless She took this classic ballad and delivered it with grace, poise and crystal clear beauty.
I Say A Little Prayer is another Dionne Warwick song that went to #4 in 1967. Amber Holcomb sounds wonderful and looks great on stage. This is one of the catchiest and most fun songs of all time and she did not disappoint.
They Long To Be Close To You was the very first #1 song for the Carpenters in 1970. It kicked off an impressive string of hits and earned them the Grammy for Best New Artist. Lazaro Arbos served up a very sweet and subtle rendition of the song. Unfortunately the song didn't allow him to showcase himself at his best.
What The World Needs Now is exactly the kind of song Kree Harrision needed to showcase herself at her best. It was all about her voice. She struggles when it comes to having any stage presence or personality but that wasn't necessary this time around since all she needed to do was stand there and sing.
I'll Never Fall In Love Again is yet another selection from the Dionne Warwick collection. This one hit the top 10 in 1970. Janelle Arthur is the exact opposite of Kree as she completely embodies an entertaining stage presence and vibrant personality. Janelle sounded sweet and wonderful as she worked the entire stage and related to every single member of the audience.
Don't Make Me Over was the very first hit for Dionne Warwick in 1963. Candice Glover is another one who just stood there and let her vocals shine through. It was a beautiful performance of this great song.
Angie Miller wishes she had written Love Came Down by Keri Jobe. It's a inspirational ballad where Angie was at her best vocalizing to perfection while playing at the piano. She is a natural performer and a star and she truly shined tonight.
Amber Holcomb wishes she had written Love On Top by Beyonce. Amber quite literally strutted her stuff in cut off hot pants and high heels. The song didn't allow her vocals to stand out on top but it was still a entertaining performance.
Lazaro Arbos wishes he had written Angels by Robbie Williams. Lazaro has the voice and the spirit of an angel and he let it sparkle to all of his many fans with this lovely performance.
Kree Harrison wishes she had written Help Me Make It Through The Night by Kris Kristofferson. It's a classic country ballad, but the reality is that there have been numerous much better renditions than what Kree offered tonight. It just sounded drab and lifeless.
Janelle Arthur wishes she had written The Dance by Garth Brooks. Janelle sang every word and you could tell it was from her heart and that she meant it. It was a very special moment and we were lucky to have her share it with all of us.
Candice Glover wishes she had written LoveSong by The Cure. Candice took it up even a notch higher with this world class, stellar performance. It was more like something from a seasoned professional than something from a talent competition. She really surpassed all expectations.
The girls are doing an amazing job every week and even though we totally and completely love Lazaro he is most likely going to end up in the bottom three along with Janelle and Amber. He is going to get my votes, but I still predict that he will be the one going home.
Anyone Who Had A Heart was a top 10 hit for Dionne Warwick in 1964. Angie Miller makes singing and hitting all of the range of notes in the song look effortless She took this classic ballad and delivered it with grace, poise and crystal clear beauty.
I Say A Little Prayer is another Dionne Warwick song that went to #4 in 1967. Amber Holcomb sounds wonderful and looks great on stage. This is one of the catchiest and most fun songs of all time and she did not disappoint.
They Long To Be Close To You was the very first #1 song for the Carpenters in 1970. It kicked off an impressive string of hits and earned them the Grammy for Best New Artist. Lazaro Arbos served up a very sweet and subtle rendition of the song. Unfortunately the song didn't allow him to showcase himself at his best.
What The World Needs Now is exactly the kind of song Kree Harrision needed to showcase herself at her best. It was all about her voice. She struggles when it comes to having any stage presence or personality but that wasn't necessary this time around since all she needed to do was stand there and sing.
I'll Never Fall In Love Again is yet another selection from the Dionne Warwick collection. This one hit the top 10 in 1970. Janelle Arthur is the exact opposite of Kree as she completely embodies an entertaining stage presence and vibrant personality. Janelle sounded sweet and wonderful as she worked the entire stage and related to every single member of the audience.
Don't Make Me Over was the very first hit for Dionne Warwick in 1963. Candice Glover is another one who just stood there and let her vocals shine through. It was a beautiful performance of this great song.
Angie Miller wishes she had written Love Came Down by Keri Jobe. It's a inspirational ballad where Angie was at her best vocalizing to perfection while playing at the piano. She is a natural performer and a star and she truly shined tonight.
Amber Holcomb wishes she had written Love On Top by Beyonce. Amber quite literally strutted her stuff in cut off hot pants and high heels. The song didn't allow her vocals to stand out on top but it was still a entertaining performance.
Lazaro Arbos wishes he had written Angels by Robbie Williams. Lazaro has the voice and the spirit of an angel and he let it sparkle to all of his many fans with this lovely performance.
Kree Harrison wishes she had written Help Me Make It Through The Night by Kris Kristofferson. It's a classic country ballad, but the reality is that there have been numerous much better renditions than what Kree offered tonight. It just sounded drab and lifeless.
Janelle Arthur wishes she had written The Dance by Garth Brooks. Janelle sang every word and you could tell it was from her heart and that she meant it. It was a very special moment and we were lucky to have her share it with all of us.
Candice Glover wishes she had written LoveSong by The Cure. Candice took it up even a notch higher with this world class, stellar performance. It was more like something from a seasoned professional than something from a talent competition. She really surpassed all expectations.
The girls are doing an amazing job every week and even though we totally and completely love Lazaro he is most likely going to end up in the bottom three along with Janelle and Amber. He is going to get my votes, but I still predict that he will be the one going home.
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