We all know this is the last season of American Idol and whoever wins tonight will be the last Miss American Idol winner. So while Trent and La'Porsha wait patiently all of the fans were treated to the most fantastic parade of Miss American Idol Superstars!
The show opened with a close up on La'Porsha starting the opening line of Barry Manilow's hit, One Voice. But just like in the song, her voice was joined by one Idol alum after another. It was a rousing and spectacular opening and triggered the first of many tears to be shed throughout the night.
Way back in the finale for Season 1, Kelly Clarkson and Justin Guarini performed a duet of It Takes Two. Tonight, Trent and La'Porsha paid homage to that historic moment with a recreation of that performance.
Showing posts with label Jordin Sparks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jordin Sparks. Show all posts
Thursday, April 7, 2016
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Caleb Johnson - Testify
I think we all owe Candice Glover an apology. A lot was made in February when Glover’s Music Speaks sold a tepid 19K copies in its first week. That was the slimmest first-week sales tally ever for the debut album by an American Idol winner. Glover relinquishes that dubious record this week to this year’s Idol champ, Caleb Johnson, whose Testify sold just 11K copies in its first week.
Testify enters the Billboard 200 at #24, which is also the lowest chart entry position ever for anIdol champ’s first album. (The old record here was Lee DeWyze's Live It Up, which debuted and peaked at #19.)
At this point, it seems obvious that the fault lies not with any individual contestant, but with the agingIdol franchise itself. Idol may have a little more life left in it as a TV show, but it seems to have simply run its course an important album-selling force.
It was nice while it lasted.
The first post-Idol albums by the first five winners each sold 240K or more copies in their first weeks. The first to fall short of that level was Jordin Sparks's Jordin Sparks, which sold 119K in its first week in November 2007. Season 7 winner David Cook got the franchise back on track when David Cook sold 280K in its first week in November 2008.
The first winner to fall short of 100K was Season 8 champ Kris Allen, whose Kris Allen sold 80K in its first week in November 2009. He had to live with that embarrassment for exactly one year, until Season 9 winner Lee DeWyze's Live It Up sold about half as many copies (39K) in its first week in November 2010.
Season 10 champ Scotty McCreery reversed the downward trend (and not a moment too soon!) when Clear As Day sold 197K copies in its first week in October 2011. Season 11 winner Phillip Phillips did nearly as well when The World From the Side of the Moon sold 169K in its first week in November 2012.
But now we’re back in the cellar. Everything runs its course eventually. Glee isn’t the force it once was, either. But the fact that so few people are interested in buying the first album by an Idol winner is amazing. The ratings of the TV show are also down, but not to this degree. Nielsen reported that 10.53 million people watched the Idol finale in May. That’s about one-fourth of the 38.06 million that watched the Season 2 finale in May 2003 (the top-rated Idol finale ever).
A contributing factor, of course, is that album sales are down overall. This isn’t just an Idol problem. But industry-wide sales declines can’t explain a drop-off this steep.
You may be surprised to learn which Idol winner’s debut album sold the most copies in its first week.Kelly Clarkson? Carrie Underwood? Nope. It’s Season 2 winner Ruben Studdard, whose Soulfulsold 417K copies in its first week. That tally, as good as it was, fell short of the first-week sales by Season 2 runner-up Clay Aiken, whose Measure of a Man had sold 613K copies just eight weeks earlier.
Monday, May 19, 2014
2014 Billboard Awards
The 2014 Billboards once again was an opportunity for some of the most successful American Idols to be on TV.
The Season 11 Miss American Idol winner, Phillip Phillips, was on hand to serve as a presenter. Also there, to give an introduction to her longtime boyfriend, Jason DeRulo, was Season 6 Miss American Idol winner Jordin Sparks.
But the biggest American Idol moments of the evening came from the Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood. She gave the most exciting performance of the night performing a brand new song with Miranda Lambert called Something Bad. It's already racing up the itunes sales chart!
In addition, Carrie won the 2014 Milestone Award which recognizes her innovation and success over the past year.
The Season 11 Miss American Idol winner, Phillip Phillips, was on hand to serve as a presenter. Also there, to give an introduction to her longtime boyfriend, Jason DeRulo, was Season 6 Miss American Idol winner Jordin Sparks.
But the biggest American Idol moments of the evening came from the Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood. She gave the most exciting performance of the night performing a brand new song with Miranda Lambert called Something Bad. It's already racing up the itunes sales chart!
In addition, Carrie won the 2014 Milestone Award which recognizes her innovation and success over the past year.
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
The Top 10 sing the American Idols!
The Top 10 finalists must select a song that was performed by a previous American Idol winner:
Curtis Finch Jr. selected the winning single from the Season 3 Miss American Idol winner, Fantasia, that hit #1 on the Billboard HOT 100 in 2004. I Believe is a wonderful R and B Gospel, anthem that Fantasia truly soared, but Curtis simply does not have the same impressive range. It fell a little flat in comparison.
Janelle Arthur selected a song that Season 10 Miss American Idol winner, Scotty McCreery, performed once. Gone by Montgomery Gentry allowed Janelle to strut around the stage and belt out some aggressive and strong vocals. She definitely showed more style and personality that Scotty ever did.
Devin Velez selected the song Temporary Home that hit #1 on the Billboard Country Songs chart in 2010 by the Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood. He has a very nice voice, but where Carrie made it into an emotional showcase with her outstanding vocal range, it sort of just fizzled with Devin. This shouldn't hurt him too much for now, but he needs to really make more stand out choices in the future.
Angie Miller selected a song that Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson performed. I Surrender by Celine Dion truly highlighted the fact the Angie is the front runner in the Season 12 competition. She looks fantastic on stage and her vocal range is pure, powerful and effortless. Genuinely wonderful!
Paul Jolley selected another song that Scotty McCreery did once. This time it was the Billboard HOT 100 #1 hit from 2001, Amazed by Lonestar. Paul provided a toned down tender vocal that illustrated his range and abilities. He's a good guy and very talented.
Candice Glover selected a song that the Season 6 Miss American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks, totally took through the roof, I Who Have Nothing. Candice was able to take this very challenging song and tear another hole through the roof. This girl knows how to take command of the stage and sing!
Lazaro Arbos selected the title track from Kelly Clarkson's huge hit album, Breakaway. He completely immersed himself in the lyrics expressing all the vulnerability and raw emotion in him. Lazaro is an absolutely charming and sincere presence on the stage and it comes through in everything he does. He can do no wrong.
Kree Harrison selected a song that Carrie Underwood performed. Cryin by Roy Orbison is an emotional and vocal rollercoaster that Kree merely performed going through the motions. While her voice sounds strained at times it is pretty good, but she completely lacks any personality, stage presence or style. She's a nice, frumpy girl but she is completely forgettable compared to Janelle, Angie and Candice.
Burnell Taylor selected the winning single from the Season 2 Miss American Idol winner, Ruben Studdard, that peaked at #2 on the Billboard HOT 100 in 2003. Flying Without Wings is a simple little inspirational ballad and, to be blunt, Burnell did nothing with the song. It actually sounded like he was straining to hit most of the notes.
Amber Holcomb selected the winning single from the Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, that hit #1 on the Billboard HOT 100 in 2002. A Moment Like This set the standard and as Amber stood center stage and belted it out with her joy and enthusiasm she easily lived up to that standard.
The girls did a great job tonight so none of them will be in my prediction for the bottom three vote getters of the week. The three boys who will be at risk of going home are Curtis Finch Jr., Devin Velez and Burnell Taylor. I think Curtis will be the one going home.
Curtis Finch Jr. selected the winning single from the Season 3 Miss American Idol winner, Fantasia, that hit #1 on the Billboard HOT 100 in 2004. I Believe is a wonderful R and B Gospel, anthem that Fantasia truly soared, but Curtis simply does not have the same impressive range. It fell a little flat in comparison.
Janelle Arthur selected a song that Season 10 Miss American Idol winner, Scotty McCreery, performed once. Gone by Montgomery Gentry allowed Janelle to strut around the stage and belt out some aggressive and strong vocals. She definitely showed more style and personality that Scotty ever did.
Devin Velez selected the song Temporary Home that hit #1 on the Billboard Country Songs chart in 2010 by the Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood. He has a very nice voice, but where Carrie made it into an emotional showcase with her outstanding vocal range, it sort of just fizzled with Devin. This shouldn't hurt him too much for now, but he needs to really make more stand out choices in the future.
Angie Miller selected a song that Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson performed. I Surrender by Celine Dion truly highlighted the fact the Angie is the front runner in the Season 12 competition. She looks fantastic on stage and her vocal range is pure, powerful and effortless. Genuinely wonderful!
Paul Jolley selected another song that Scotty McCreery did once. This time it was the Billboard HOT 100 #1 hit from 2001, Amazed by Lonestar. Paul provided a toned down tender vocal that illustrated his range and abilities. He's a good guy and very talented.
Candice Glover selected a song that the Season 6 Miss American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks, totally took through the roof, I Who Have Nothing. Candice was able to take this very challenging song and tear another hole through the roof. This girl knows how to take command of the stage and sing!
Lazaro Arbos selected the title track from Kelly Clarkson's huge hit album, Breakaway. He completely immersed himself in the lyrics expressing all the vulnerability and raw emotion in him. Lazaro is an absolutely charming and sincere presence on the stage and it comes through in everything he does. He can do no wrong.
Kree Harrison selected a song that Carrie Underwood performed. Cryin by Roy Orbison is an emotional and vocal rollercoaster that Kree merely performed going through the motions. While her voice sounds strained at times it is pretty good, but she completely lacks any personality, stage presence or style. She's a nice, frumpy girl but she is completely forgettable compared to Janelle, Angie and Candice.
Burnell Taylor selected the winning single from the Season 2 Miss American Idol winner, Ruben Studdard, that peaked at #2 on the Billboard HOT 100 in 2003. Flying Without Wings is a simple little inspirational ballad and, to be blunt, Burnell did nothing with the song. It actually sounded like he was straining to hit most of the notes.
Amber Holcomb selected the winning single from the Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, that hit #1 on the Billboard HOT 100 in 2002. A Moment Like This set the standard and as Amber stood center stage and belted it out with her joy and enthusiasm she easily lived up to that standard.
The girls did a great job tonight so none of them will be in my prediction for the bottom three vote getters of the week. The three boys who will be at risk of going home are Curtis Finch Jr., Devin Velez and Burnell Taylor. I think Curtis will be the one going home.
Thursday, December 27, 2012
American Idol Superstar - Jordin Sparks
Since becoming the Season 6 Miss American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks has had her share of top 10 hits on the Billboard HOT 100 and plenty of radio airplay with songs like, Tattoo, No Air, and Battlefield. She has continued to grow and mature from the youngest Miss American Idol winner (at that time) to a movie star!
In 2012 Jordin made her big screen debut starring opposite none other than Whitney Houston in the remake of Sparkle. This was the last film that Whitney made before her death, but Jordin had the chance to work alongside and learn from one of her music idols and inspirations.
In somewhat of a surprise, the film sort of fizzled at the box office performing below expectations. Regardless of that, it's an entertaining cinematic experience showcasing the full range of Jordin's impressive acting, singing and dancing talents. The Soundtrack has some wonderful original songs on it including a duet that Jordin sings with Whitney Houston. It's called Celebrate and it's simply dance pop perfection.
2012 was a great year for American Idol Superstar - Jordin Sparks!
In 2012 Jordin made her big screen debut starring opposite none other than Whitney Houston in the remake of Sparkle. This was the last film that Whitney made before her death, but Jordin had the chance to work alongside and learn from one of her music idols and inspirations.
In somewhat of a surprise, the film sort of fizzled at the box office performing below expectations. Regardless of that, it's an entertaining cinematic experience showcasing the full range of Jordin's impressive acting, singing and dancing talents. The Soundtrack has some wonderful original songs on it including a duet that Jordin sings with Whitney Houston. It's called Celebrate and it's simply dance pop perfection.
2012 was a great year for American Idol Superstar - Jordin Sparks!
Sunday, December 23, 2012
American Idol DIVAS
The 2012 VH1 DIVAS concert turned into yet another Miss American Idol Family Reunion.
The Season 8 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up, Adam Lambert, served as host of the show. This gave him an exciting opportunity to show off numerous high fashion costume changes while also adding his unique vocal talents to quite a few numbers. The theme of the show this year was a celebration of dance and disco music.
Adam opened the show with an outstanding rendition of David Bowie's #1 smash hit from 1983, Let's Dance. During a tribute to Donna Summer, he added his special flavor to her big hits, Hot Stuff and Last Dance. Finally, to acknowledge her significant contributions to genre, Adam performed Madonna's Ray Of Light.
The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, is currently promoting her Greatest Hits collection, so she took the VH1 Divas stage to sing her single, Catch My Breath, that is included as a new track on the album.
In addition, there was a tribute to Whitney Houston with a medley of some of her best dance hits. After starring in Sparkle with her this year, it was no surprise at all that the Season 6 Miss American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks, would lend her voice to the mix. Jordin looked stunning in a glamorous long gown as she sounded flawless performing I'm Every Woman. Later, she returned to the stage to join in a group performance of How Will I Know.
The Season 8 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up, Adam Lambert, served as host of the show. This gave him an exciting opportunity to show off numerous high fashion costume changes while also adding his unique vocal talents to quite a few numbers. The theme of the show this year was a celebration of dance and disco music.
Adam opened the show with an outstanding rendition of David Bowie's #1 smash hit from 1983, Let's Dance. During a tribute to Donna Summer, he added his special flavor to her big hits, Hot Stuff and Last Dance. Finally, to acknowledge her significant contributions to genre, Adam performed Madonna's Ray Of Light.
The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, is currently promoting her Greatest Hits collection, so she took the VH1 Divas stage to sing her single, Catch My Breath, that is included as a new track on the album.
In addition, there was a tribute to Whitney Houston with a medley of some of her best dance hits. After starring in Sparkle with her this year, it was no surprise at all that the Season 6 Miss American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks, would lend her voice to the mix. Jordin looked stunning in a glamorous long gown as she sounded flawless performing I'm Every Woman. Later, she returned to the stage to join in a group performance of How Will I Know.
Sunday, December 16, 2012
More Favorite Songs From 2012
I recently listed my Top 10 Favorite Songs of 2012. 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 2012. 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 2012 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 2012. 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.
Good Girl - Carrie Underwood: This first single from the Supreme Miss American Idol's 4th album was a huge hit by all accounts topping the Country Singles Chart, winning the Video of the Year at the CMT Awards and staying at #1 on the CMT Top 20 Video Countdown for a record breaking 14 weeks. Somehow it stalled at #18 on the Billboard HOT 100.
Triumphant - Mariah Carey: All of the fans had high hopes that this would become Mariah's 19th #1 on the Billboard HOT 100, but it unfortunately fell short even though it's a great song. It did manage to hit #1 on the BET 106 & Park countdown for a few weeks and the dance remix hit #1 on the Billboard Dance/Club Play chart.
Time Is Love - Josh Turner: This is the perfect song to dance a fun two-step to. It has a great beat and Josh's voice is deep and wonderful as always.
Kissed You Goodnight - Gloriana: What an outstanding ballad that perfectly captures the longing and the yearning of new love. When it's the end of a great date, all you want to do is push that great guy up against the wall and kiss him. Just do it and have no regrets!
Celebrate - Jordin Sparks: This uplifting dance track with Whitney Houston from the Sparkle soundtrack should have been huge. It has everything that I want to hear on the radio in heavy rotation. It is crazy that it was not well-received. Oh well, I enjoyed it immensely!
5150 - Dierks Bentley: When I hear this hard driving rugged jam, I feel like a hot cowboy. It's fun and sexy and I can't get enough of it. Somebody's gonna call the po po because I am playing it too loud again. :)
Touch Me - Katharine McPhee: How exciting to see the Season 5 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up deliver this high energy dance throw down on Smash. The only thing that would have made it better was to hear it on the radio all the time.
Pontoon - Little Big Town: It is summer time and fun in the sun year round when listening to this light and easy celebration of floating and motor boating.
Love You Like A Love Song - Selena Gomez: This beautiful Disney teen queen is continuing to crank out some of the best dance pop music out there. It's too bad she just keeps falling short of crossing over into mainstream superstardom. It's surely coming soon...
Georgia Peaches - Lauren Alaina: The Season 10 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up is at her best on this toe tapping jam. Still one of my favorite new line dances of the year as well.
Trespassing - Adam Lambert: The Season 8 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up hit #1 on the Billboard Top 200 albums chart, but none of the singles connected with radio and sales. This song is sorely overlooked and I am still holding out hope that it will get the attention it deserves.
Think Like A Man - Jennifer Hudson: The Oscar winner and Season 3 Miss American Idol finalist sounds amazing on this empowering R&B piece of advice to women.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Mark Your Calendars!
There are a lot more Miss American Idol appearances coming up on TV in the coming weeks ahead.
Coming up this Sunday Nov. 18th in the American Music Awards honoring the favorites of 2012 in Pop, Country and R&B. The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson is nominated for Favorite Pop Female Artist after her huge #1 success this year with What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Stronger. The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood is nominated for both Favorite Country Female Artist as well as Favorite Country Album for Blown Away. Carrie is also on the roster of superstar performers for the night.
Then on December 10th there will be more Carrie Underwood on the American Country Awards. She has numerous nominations including Favorite Female Artist, Favorite Single by a Female Artist for Good Girl and Favorite Video by a Female Artist, also for Good Girl. For the past two years, Carrie has completely dominated on this show, we wish her the best to repeat the success again this year. In addition, the Season 10 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up, Lauren Alaina is nominated for Favorite New Artist this year.
The excitement continues on December 16th as VH1 presents the 2012 DIVAS Concert. This year it will be a celebration of dance music including tributes to Donna Summer and Whitney Houston. The host for the evening will be the The Season 8 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up Adam Lambert. He has had a great year with his #1 album Trespassing so it will be wonderful to see him perform some of the hot songs from it. Also, The Season 6 Miss American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks will be one of the headlining Divas of the show. She is sure to Sparkle with her outstanding vocals taking center stage.
Coming up this Sunday Nov. 18th in the American Music Awards honoring the favorites of 2012 in Pop, Country and R&B. The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson is nominated for Favorite Pop Female Artist after her huge #1 success this year with What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Stronger. The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood is nominated for both Favorite Country Female Artist as well as Favorite Country Album for Blown Away. Carrie is also on the roster of superstar performers for the night.
Then on December 10th there will be more Carrie Underwood on the American Country Awards. She has numerous nominations including Favorite Female Artist, Favorite Single by a Female Artist for Good Girl and Favorite Video by a Female Artist, also for Good Girl. For the past two years, Carrie has completely dominated on this show, we wish her the best to repeat the success again this year. In addition, the Season 10 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up, Lauren Alaina is nominated for Favorite New Artist this year.
The excitement continues on December 16th as VH1 presents the 2012 DIVAS Concert. This year it will be a celebration of dance music including tributes to Donna Summer and Whitney Houston. The host for the evening will be the The Season 8 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up Adam Lambert. He has had a great year with his #1 album Trespassing so it will be wonderful to see him perform some of the hot songs from it. Also, The Season 6 Miss American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks will be one of the headlining Divas of the show. She is sure to Sparkle with her outstanding vocals taking center stage.
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Sparkle is #1
Sparkle, the feature film debut from Season 6 Miss American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks is in theaters now.
The soundtrack to the film features three new songs from Jordin, along with three covers from the original 1976 soundtrack. There's even a duet called Celebrate with Whitney Houston, who plays her mother in the film. Celebrate is a truly joyous pop dance anthem that would be a welcome addition to any music collection.
The soundtrack to Sparkle has been sitting at #1 on the Billboard Top Soundtracks chart for the past 4 weeks.
On the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart Sparkle had a peak position of #21.
The soundtrack to the film features three new songs from Jordin, along with three covers from the original 1976 soundtrack. There's even a duet called Celebrate with Whitney Houston, who plays her mother in the film. Celebrate is a truly joyous pop dance anthem that would be a welcome addition to any music collection.
The soundtrack to Sparkle has been sitting at #1 on the Billboard Top Soundtracks chart for the past 4 weeks.
On the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart Sparkle had a peak position of #21.
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Carrie wins Video of the Year!
The 2012 CMT Video Music Awards was a very fun night of great music and it was a virtual who's who of Miss American Idol winners and finalists.
Things got off to a great start when the Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood walked away with the first award of the night. She won the CMT Collaborative Video of the Year along with Brad Paisley for their outstanding duet, Remind Me.
The next award then went to another Miss American Idol winner. This time it was Season 10 winner Scotty McCreery nabbing the CMT Breakthrough Video of the Year for The Trouble With Girls. Scotty also got the chance to sing his latest single Water Tower Town.
The Season 10 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up, Lauren Alaina, was also nominated for the CMT Breakthrough Video of the Year for her very fun hit Georgia Peaches, but it seems like she is destined to finish behind Scotty when they go up against each other. In addition to taking the stage to perform Georgia Peaches, Lauren also provided commentary throughout the show regarding the Twitter activity of the fans favorite artists. It was no surprise that Carrie Underwood was at the top of the trending artists.
Season 9 Miss American Idol finalist Casey James was also on hand to perform his latest single and then the floodgates opened of Miss American Idol finalists and winners as presenters. Season 5 Miss American Idol finalist Kellie Pickler was in the house as a nominee for Female Video of the Year for Tough and she presented a CMT Buckle. The Season 6 Miss American Idol winner Jordin Sparks also graced the stage to present a CMT Buckle.
Then a pair of Season 11 Miss American Idol finalists, Skylar Laine and Colton Dixon, got one of the most prestigious honors of the night when they had the privilege of introducing the blockbuster, showstopping performance by Carrie Underwood. She exploded on stage singing the energetic jam Good Girl. She completely electrified the cheering crowd and the rousing number came to a powerful end as the arena was filled with golden glitter falling from the rafters.
Shortly after the amazing performance of Good Girl, the Supreme Miss American Idol's name was called to the stage to accept the biggest award of the night. Carrie Underwood and Good Girl won the CMT Buckle for the 2012 VIDEO OF THE YEAR!
Things got off to a great start when the Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood walked away with the first award of the night. She won the CMT Collaborative Video of the Year along with Brad Paisley for their outstanding duet, Remind Me.
The next award then went to another Miss American Idol winner. This time it was Season 10 winner Scotty McCreery nabbing the CMT Breakthrough Video of the Year for The Trouble With Girls. Scotty also got the chance to sing his latest single Water Tower Town.
The Season 10 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up, Lauren Alaina, was also nominated for the CMT Breakthrough Video of the Year for her very fun hit Georgia Peaches, but it seems like she is destined to finish behind Scotty when they go up against each other. In addition to taking the stage to perform Georgia Peaches, Lauren also provided commentary throughout the show regarding the Twitter activity of the fans favorite artists. It was no surprise that Carrie Underwood was at the top of the trending artists.
Season 9 Miss American Idol finalist Casey James was also on hand to perform his latest single and then the floodgates opened of Miss American Idol finalists and winners as presenters. Season 5 Miss American Idol finalist Kellie Pickler was in the house as a nominee for Female Video of the Year for Tough and she presented a CMT Buckle. The Season 6 Miss American Idol winner Jordin Sparks also graced the stage to present a CMT Buckle.
Then a pair of Season 11 Miss American Idol finalists, Skylar Laine and Colton Dixon, got one of the most prestigious honors of the night when they had the privilege of introducing the blockbuster, showstopping performance by Carrie Underwood. She exploded on stage singing the energetic jam Good Girl. She completely electrified the cheering crowd and the rousing number came to a powerful end as the arena was filled with golden glitter falling from the rafters.
Shortly after the amazing performance of Good Girl, the Supreme Miss American Idol's name was called to the stage to accept the biggest award of the night. Carrie Underwood and Good Girl won the CMT Buckle for the 2012 VIDEO OF THE YEAR!
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
And the Season 11 Miss American Idol winner is....
The Season 11 Top 12 finalists opened the show with a very fun group performance of the Bruno Mars track Runaway Baby. It was great to see Colton, Deandre, Skylar and Hollie out there showing off what they can do.
Credence Clearwater Revival accumulated 17 top 40 hits on the Billboard HOT 100 in the four short years between 1968 and 1972. They did them all with the impressive lead vocals of John Fogerty. John took the stage with Phillip Phillips to sing Have You Ever Seen The Rain and Bad Moon Rising and what stood out most is that after all these years John still a a great vocal range that makes Phillip's pale in comparison.
The Season 11 2nd Runner Up, Joshua Ledet then performed the Elton John classic Take Me To The Pilot with the Season 3 Miss American Idol winner Fantasia. With their voices and musical styles being so similar it was hard to distinguish where Joshua ended and where Fantasia began. But then all you had to do was realize that Fantasia was the one wearing the glittery body suit that was slit up and down both legs! And she thought everyone was going to be paying attention to her glamorous, silky long hair....
Erika, Elise, Shannon, Skylar, Jessica and Hollie performed a medley of Chaka Khan favorites including Ain't Nobody and Through The Fire. It culminated with the diva herself joining them on stage to sing I'm Every Woman. It seems like she took fashion advise from Fantasia as she chose to rock a glittery body suit as well.
Since 2006 pop princess Rhianna has been cranking out #1 hits on the Billboard HOT 100 with We Found Love, Only Girl in the World and S&M being the three most recent. With tonight's explosive performance of Where Have You Been it's quite likely that she could be adding another one to the collection.
Skylar Laine then had the opportunity to strut her country girl stuff for a duet with legendary superstar Reba. They performed her recent hit, Turn On The Radio and they were both in their element looking and sounding great.
Early in the season, Jessica Sanchez set herself apart as the clear front-runner with her exceptional rendition of the Whitney Houston smash #1 hit from 1992, I Will Always Love You. Tonight she recreated the moment with flawless vocal perfection.
Colton, Heejun, Jeremy, Deandre and Joshua took over the stage to sing the Neil Diamond anthems America, Cracklin' Rosie and I'm a Believer. The grand finale came when the man himself joined in for Sweet Caroline. It was quite the fun karaoke party on that stage!
Jennifer Lopez took advantage of the chance to perform in front of this huge audience. She served up some more of her signature dance, latin, pop music.
The Season 3 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up Diana DeGarmo and Season 5 Miss American Idol finalist Ace Young have been maintaining their music careers on the Broadway stage where they had a chance to meet and get to know each other better. In a romantic surprise Ace took advantage of being back on the American Idol stage to ask Diana to marry him and she immediately accepted.
Hollie Cavanagh showed off her amazing voice on You'll Never Walk Alone and demonstrated what a fierce competition it would have been if she had been in the finals going head to head with Jessica Sanchez. Hollie welcomed the Season 6 Miss American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks on stage with her and this turned into a lovely duet with two beautiful young women. Colton, Heejun, Jeremy, Deandre and Joshua then got together one more time to perform a Bee Gees medley in tribute to Robin Gibb
Jessica Sanchez continued to be the front-runner throughout the season when she performed the dramatic ballad from DreamGirls, And I Am telling You I'm Not Going. Tonight she had the privilege of singing it with the original artist who set the standard that all other have tried to live up to, the amazing Jennifer Holliday. It was truly electrifying to see them together and actually keep pace with each other.
Since Jennifer had her turn to perform, it was only fair that Steven Tyler and Aerosmith also got a chance to perform a medley of their hits.
Joe Cocker and Jennifer Warnes spent three weeks at #1 in 1982 with Up Where We Belong. It was a classic combination of the soft paired with the scruffy as Jessica and Phillip did one last duet together. They then both went center stage to have the final results revealed. The Season 11 Miss American Idol winner is.... PHILLIP PHILLIPS!
He took his guitar, he sang his debut single Home, and the glitter fell around him as he held back tears.
Credence Clearwater Revival accumulated 17 top 40 hits on the Billboard HOT 100 in the four short years between 1968 and 1972. They did them all with the impressive lead vocals of John Fogerty. John took the stage with Phillip Phillips to sing Have You Ever Seen The Rain and Bad Moon Rising and what stood out most is that after all these years John still a a great vocal range that makes Phillip's pale in comparison.
The Season 11 2nd Runner Up, Joshua Ledet then performed the Elton John classic Take Me To The Pilot with the Season 3 Miss American Idol winner Fantasia. With their voices and musical styles being so similar it was hard to distinguish where Joshua ended and where Fantasia began. But then all you had to do was realize that Fantasia was the one wearing the glittery body suit that was slit up and down both legs! And she thought everyone was going to be paying attention to her glamorous, silky long hair....
Erika, Elise, Shannon, Skylar, Jessica and Hollie performed a medley of Chaka Khan favorites including Ain't Nobody and Through The Fire. It culminated with the diva herself joining them on stage to sing I'm Every Woman. It seems like she took fashion advise from Fantasia as she chose to rock a glittery body suit as well.
Since 2006 pop princess Rhianna has been cranking out #1 hits on the Billboard HOT 100 with We Found Love, Only Girl in the World and S&M being the three most recent. With tonight's explosive performance of Where Have You Been it's quite likely that she could be adding another one to the collection.
Skylar Laine then had the opportunity to strut her country girl stuff for a duet with legendary superstar Reba. They performed her recent hit, Turn On The Radio and they were both in their element looking and sounding great.
Early in the season, Jessica Sanchez set herself apart as the clear front-runner with her exceptional rendition of the Whitney Houston smash #1 hit from 1992, I Will Always Love You. Tonight she recreated the moment with flawless vocal perfection.
Colton, Heejun, Jeremy, Deandre and Joshua took over the stage to sing the Neil Diamond anthems America, Cracklin' Rosie and I'm a Believer. The grand finale came when the man himself joined in for Sweet Caroline. It was quite the fun karaoke party on that stage!
Jennifer Lopez took advantage of the chance to perform in front of this huge audience. She served up some more of her signature dance, latin, pop music.
The Season 3 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up Diana DeGarmo and Season 5 Miss American Idol finalist Ace Young have been maintaining their music careers on the Broadway stage where they had a chance to meet and get to know each other better. In a romantic surprise Ace took advantage of being back on the American Idol stage to ask Diana to marry him and she immediately accepted.
Hollie Cavanagh showed off her amazing voice on You'll Never Walk Alone and demonstrated what a fierce competition it would have been if she had been in the finals going head to head with Jessica Sanchez. Hollie welcomed the Season 6 Miss American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks on stage with her and this turned into a lovely duet with two beautiful young women. Colton, Heejun, Jeremy, Deandre and Joshua then got together one more time to perform a Bee Gees medley in tribute to Robin Gibb
Jessica Sanchez continued to be the front-runner throughout the season when she performed the dramatic ballad from DreamGirls, And I Am telling You I'm Not Going. Tonight she had the privilege of singing it with the original artist who set the standard that all other have tried to live up to, the amazing Jennifer Holliday. It was truly electrifying to see them together and actually keep pace with each other.
Since Jennifer had her turn to perform, it was only fair that Steven Tyler and Aerosmith also got a chance to perform a medley of their hits.
Joe Cocker and Jennifer Warnes spent three weeks at #1 in 1982 with Up Where We Belong. It was a classic combination of the soft paired with the scruffy as Jessica and Phillip did one last duet together. They then both went center stage to have the final results revealed. The Season 11 Miss American Idol winner is.... PHILLIP PHILLIPS!
He took his guitar, he sang his debut single Home, and the glitter fell around him as he held back tears.
Monday, May 21, 2012
Idols dominate the 2012 Billboard Music Awards
The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood is sitting comfortably at the #1 position on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart for the second week in a row with her album Blown Away. Her performance of the title track from the album was without a doubt the highlight of the 2012 Billboard Music Awards. Her vocals had all the power and drama necessary to bring the story of abuse and revenge to life for the crowd of cheering fans. It was combined with wind from giant fans, bursts of smoke, glitter falling to the ground and Carrie looking amazing is a flowing red gown.
In addition to Carrie, the Season 6 Miss American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks was also there to participate in a tribute to the late Whitney Houston. Jordin performed a stellar rendition of I Will Always Love You with wonderful vocal perfection and heartfelt emotion. Jordin will soon be co-starring with Whitney in the remake of Sparkle that will be in theaters later this summer. A new duet with Jordin and Whitney was just released from the Sparkle soundtrack today called Celebrate. It's a fun and upbeat dance groove that has potential to be huge hit.
The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, was also at the Billboard Awards to perform the third single from her album Stronger. This week Kelly is returning to TV on a new show called Duets where hopefuls will compete for the chance to sing and record a song with her.
Finally, the winner of this season's Celebrity Apprentice was named and unfortunately it was not the Season 2 Miss American Idol 1st runner up, Clay Aiken. For some reason, Donald Trump decided to give the honor to Arsenio Hall instead. Once again, Clay has found himself in the 1st runner up position.
In addition to Carrie, the Season 6 Miss American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks was also there to participate in a tribute to the late Whitney Houston. Jordin performed a stellar rendition of I Will Always Love You with wonderful vocal perfection and heartfelt emotion. Jordin will soon be co-starring with Whitney in the remake of Sparkle that will be in theaters later this summer. A new duet with Jordin and Whitney was just released from the Sparkle soundtrack today called Celebrate. It's a fun and upbeat dance groove that has potential to be huge hit.
The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, was also at the Billboard Awards to perform the third single from her album Stronger. This week Kelly is returning to TV on a new show called Duets where hopefuls will compete for the chance to sing and record a song with her.
Finally, the winner of this season's Celebrity Apprentice was named and unfortunately it was not the Season 2 Miss American Idol 1st runner up, Clay Aiken. For some reason, Donald Trump decided to give the honor to Arsenio Hall instead. Once again, Clay has found himself in the 1st runner up position.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Idols at the Grammys
There were no new Grammy wins for any of the Miss American Idol finalists this year, but they were still a very big part of the show.
The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, performed her nominated duet with Jason Aldean, Don't You Wanna Stay.
The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood, looked absolutely flawless and stunning as she performed It Had To Be You with Tony Bennett from his album Duets II. She then was a presenter for this year's award for Best New Artist.
With the very unfortunate passing of Whitney Houston, Season 3 Miss American Idol finalist and Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson was called upon to sing I Will Always Love You in tribute to the pop music legend. It was a very tasteful and powerful rendtion performed with class and style.
It also turns out that the final new material from Whitney Houston is going to be released this summer in the film and soundtrack for Sparkle starring the Season 6 Miss American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks.
The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, performed her nominated duet with Jason Aldean, Don't You Wanna Stay.
The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood, looked absolutely flawless and stunning as she performed It Had To Be You with Tony Bennett from his album Duets II. She then was a presenter for this year's award for Best New Artist.
With the very unfortunate passing of Whitney Houston, Season 3 Miss American Idol finalist and Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson was called upon to sing I Will Always Love You in tribute to the pop music legend. It was a very tasteful and powerful rendtion performed with class and style.
It also turns out that the final new material from Whitney Houston is going to be released this summer in the film and soundtrack for Sparkle starring the Season 6 Miss American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
SUPER American Idols!
Fun Fact: in the last 5 years the National Anthem at the Super Bowl has been performed 4 times by an American Idol finalist or winner! 2008 - Jordin Sparks, 2009 - Jennifer Hudson, 2010 - Carrie Underwood and 2012 - Kelly Clarkson!
In addition to the Season 1 Miss American Idol winner doing the National Anthem at this year's Super Bowl, there was also some significant presence of some other Idols there over the weekend.
The Season 3 Miss American Idol, Fantasia, brought the house down with a rousing performance at the 2012 Super Bowl Gospel Concert.
The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood, performed a live concert for CMT Crossraods at the Super Bowl Pepsi Fan Jam with American Idol judge Steven Tyler and Aerosmith. They performed duets of many of their hits including an astounding mash-up of their songs Dream On and Just A Dream.
Super Bowl weekend ended with the premier of the Season 5 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up Katherine McPhee starring in Smash. There were so many commercials for Smash shown during the game that it was sure to be a huge hit in the ratings. It's a great show and it desrves to be a huge hit!
In addition to the Season 1 Miss American Idol winner doing the National Anthem at this year's Super Bowl, there was also some significant presence of some other Idols there over the weekend.
The Season 3 Miss American Idol, Fantasia, brought the house down with a rousing performance at the 2012 Super Bowl Gospel Concert.
The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood, performed a live concert for CMT Crossraods at the Super Bowl Pepsi Fan Jam with American Idol judge Steven Tyler and Aerosmith. They performed duets of many of their hits including an astounding mash-up of their songs Dream On and Just A Dream.
Super Bowl weekend ended with the premier of the Season 5 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up Katherine McPhee starring in Smash. There were so many commercials for Smash shown during the game that it was sure to be a huge hit in the ratings. It's a great show and it desrves to be a huge hit!
Monday, January 2, 2012
More Favorite Songs From 2011
I recently listed my Top 10 Favorite Songs of 2011. 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 2011. 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 2011 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 2011. 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.
Country Girl (Shake It For Me) - Luke Bryan: The only thing that could have possibly made this song any better is if Luke was singing "Country BOY Shake It For Me"! It has the perfect bouncy beat for a high energy two-step around the dance floor and it's great to blast really loud while driving.
Get Outta My Way - Kylie Minogue: Another perfect song to enjoy while driving when you want those slow pokes to keep moving and get out the way! Kylie is a huge superstar all over the world, but she just can't seem to get another hit here in the States, even with totally fierce songs like this one.
If I Run - The Harters: This is the perfect song to dance a waltz to when you want to channel the glam and drama of Dancing With the Stars. It has romantic lyrics that are sung beautifully to a lush and sweeping production and arrangement.
MoneyGrabber - Fitz and the Tantrums: Upon first listen to this pop masterpiece one would think it is an oldie from the new wave 80's scene. The fact is, that it is an exciting sound coming from the completely under-rated and Best New Artist of 2011. The entire album is filled with catchy hooks sung to a great beat.
From A Table Away - Sunny Sweeney: The favorite new stationary cha-cha of the year is this classic country tale of the other woman realizing that her man is never gonna leave his wife.
Where You At - Jennifer Hudson: The Season 3 Miss American Idol finalist and Oscar winner completely shined on this R&B ballad from her second album.
I Wouldn't Be A Man - Josh Turner: This became my most requested song for dancing a sexy shadow to in 2011. With Josh's deep vocals along with the smooth and steady slow beat there was some steaming lovemaking going on on the dance floor.
I Am Woman - Jordin Sparks: The Season 6 Miss American Idol winner provided the anthem of female empowerment of 2011. Sadly, there were probably only two opportunities to hear it all year. She performed it on American Idol and then the song was used on Dancing With The Stars for a group number.
Don't You Wanna Stay - Kelly Clarkson w/Jason Aldean: The Season 1 Miss American winner had her biggest success on the country charts this year. The video for this lovely duet ended up in the #1 position on CMT's Top Videos of the Year countdown.
Remind Me - Carrie Underwood w/Brad Paisley: Without a new album in 2011, the most we got from the Supreme Miss American Idol and Season 4 winner was this wonderful ballad about rediscovering a faded love. This was another very sexy shadow dance.
There were lots of other songs that I loved in 2011 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 2011. 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.
Country Girl (Shake It For Me) - Luke Bryan: The only thing that could have possibly made this song any better is if Luke was singing "Country BOY Shake It For Me"! It has the perfect bouncy beat for a high energy two-step around the dance floor and it's great to blast really loud while driving.
Get Outta My Way - Kylie Minogue: Another perfect song to enjoy while driving when you want those slow pokes to keep moving and get out the way! Kylie is a huge superstar all over the world, but she just can't seem to get another hit here in the States, even with totally fierce songs like this one.
If I Run - The Harters: This is the perfect song to dance a waltz to when you want to channel the glam and drama of Dancing With the Stars. It has romantic lyrics that are sung beautifully to a lush and sweeping production and arrangement.
MoneyGrabber - Fitz and the Tantrums: Upon first listen to this pop masterpiece one would think it is an oldie from the new wave 80's scene. The fact is, that it is an exciting sound coming from the completely under-rated and Best New Artist of 2011. The entire album is filled with catchy hooks sung to a great beat.
From A Table Away - Sunny Sweeney: The favorite new stationary cha-cha of the year is this classic country tale of the other woman realizing that her man is never gonna leave his wife.
Where You At - Jennifer Hudson: The Season 3 Miss American Idol finalist and Oscar winner completely shined on this R&B ballad from her second album.
I Wouldn't Be A Man - Josh Turner: This became my most requested song for dancing a sexy shadow to in 2011. With Josh's deep vocals along with the smooth and steady slow beat there was some steaming lovemaking going on on the dance floor.
I Am Woman - Jordin Sparks: The Season 6 Miss American Idol winner provided the anthem of female empowerment of 2011. Sadly, there were probably only two opportunities to hear it all year. She performed it on American Idol and then the song was used on Dancing With The Stars for a group number.
Don't You Wanna Stay - Kelly Clarkson w/Jason Aldean: The Season 1 Miss American winner had her biggest success on the country charts this year. The video for this lovely duet ended up in the #1 position on CMT's Top Videos of the Year countdown.
Remind Me - Carrie Underwood w/Brad Paisley: Without a new album in 2011, the most we got from the Supreme Miss American Idol and Season 4 winner was this wonderful ballad about rediscovering a faded love. This was another very sexy shadow dance.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
American Idols at the ACA's
The 2nd Annual American Country Awards was another big night for the American Idols.
The show started out with the Season 6 Miss American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks, as the first presenter of the evening. She was introduced as the star of the upcoming film Sparkle, so we have something to look forward to from her.
Jordin presented the first award of the evening, which was for favorite Single by a Female artist to the Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood. Carrie very graciously accepted the award thanking her fans and looking more beautiful than ever.
The Season 10 Miss American Idol winner, Scotty McCreery, already has a #1 album that was just certified GOLD to his credit and now he has the American Country Award for Favorite New Artist. He performed his latest single, The Trouble With Girls from his album Clear As Day.
The Season 10 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up, Lauren Alaina, was also on hand as a presenter for the evening.
The biggest winner of the night was Jason Aldean who ended up accepting 6 awards including 2 for his wonderful duet with the Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, Don't You Wanna Stay. Kelly was not present to accept her awards for Favorite Single by a Duo or Group and Favorite Video by a Duo or Group. The honors for this great song are sure to keep coming.
As the night went on, Carrie Underwood ended up taking home two more awards for Favorite Female Artist and Favorite Video by a Female Artist. All of her awards were for her exceptional track, Mama's Song, from her latest CD, Play On. She left the fans by announcing that we can look forward to big things in 2012. Can't wait!!!!!
The show started out with the Season 6 Miss American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks, as the first presenter of the evening. She was introduced as the star of the upcoming film Sparkle, so we have something to look forward to from her.
Jordin presented the first award of the evening, which was for favorite Single by a Female artist to the Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood. Carrie very graciously accepted the award thanking her fans and looking more beautiful than ever.
The Season 10 Miss American Idol winner, Scotty McCreery, already has a #1 album that was just certified GOLD to his credit and now he has the American Country Award for Favorite New Artist. He performed his latest single, The Trouble With Girls from his album Clear As Day.
The Season 10 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up, Lauren Alaina, was also on hand as a presenter for the evening.
The biggest winner of the night was Jason Aldean who ended up accepting 6 awards including 2 for his wonderful duet with the Season 1 Miss American Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson, Don't You Wanna Stay. Kelly was not present to accept her awards for Favorite Single by a Duo or Group and Favorite Video by a Duo or Group. The honors for this great song are sure to keep coming.
As the night went on, Carrie Underwood ended up taking home two more awards for Favorite Female Artist and Favorite Video by a Female Artist. All of her awards were for her exceptional track, Mama's Song, from her latest CD, Play On. She left the fans by announcing that we can look forward to big things in 2012. Can't wait!!!!!
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Saturday, May 14, 2011
The Results - Lady Gaga
Scotty and James opened the show with a performance of the Brad Paisley and Keith Urban duet, Start A Band. James was able to add a convincing musical interpretation to the lyrics as this is something that he has clearly been striving toward for his entire life, while Scotty was just going through the motions. Lauren and Haley followed this up with their best effort of the Miranda Lambert anthem Gunpowder and Lead. The fact is, though, that clearly neither of these girls has the spit fire composition to live up to the premise of the what little girls are made of in the song.
Lady Gaga performed a live concert on HBO this week and the You and I clip from it was shared with the American Idol audience. It was nice to see this song done well after the mess that Haley made of it a couple of weeks ago.
Lauren was then the first of the remaining finalists to secure a spot in this year's top three.
The Season 6 Miss American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks, has enjoyed some wonderful well-deserved success since getting the crown. She has consistently reached the top 10 on the Billboard HOT 100 with singles, No Air, Tattoo and Battlefield. Tonight she made the debut of her latest single, I Am Woman, which is an empowering dance throw down. Hopefully this year's finalists were watching closely and learning a lesson about how a very young and talented singer should look in order to have pop music success. Jordin looked and sounded amazing.
Enrique Iglesias made his way back to the upper portion of the charts last year with his dance club friendly songs like I Like It. Tonight he is hoping to get more success with his release Dirty Dancer.
In an unpleasant twist, it was announced that Haley would be the next person joining Lauren in the top three along with Scotty. That left the most impressive singer with the best vocal range and stage presence, James Durbin, to be the one eliminated this week.
Needless to say, I was not right with my prediction at all this week and Haley is continuing to move another step closer to winning the Season 10 Miss American Idol crown.
It seems like James Durbin is set to follow in the footsteps of Chris Daughtry who was eliminated at this same point during Season 5, but went on to release the top selling album for all of 2007.
Lady Gaga performed a live concert on HBO this week and the You and I clip from it was shared with the American Idol audience. It was nice to see this song done well after the mess that Haley made of it a couple of weeks ago.
Lauren was then the first of the remaining finalists to secure a spot in this year's top three.
The Season 6 Miss American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks, has enjoyed some wonderful well-deserved success since getting the crown. She has consistently reached the top 10 on the Billboard HOT 100 with singles, No Air, Tattoo and Battlefield. Tonight she made the debut of her latest single, I Am Woman, which is an empowering dance throw down. Hopefully this year's finalists were watching closely and learning a lesson about how a very young and talented singer should look in order to have pop music success. Jordin looked and sounded amazing.
Enrique Iglesias made his way back to the upper portion of the charts last year with his dance club friendly songs like I Like It. Tonight he is hoping to get more success with his release Dirty Dancer.
In an unpleasant twist, it was announced that Haley would be the next person joining Lauren in the top three along with Scotty. That left the most impressive singer with the best vocal range and stage presence, James Durbin, to be the one eliminated this week.
Needless to say, I was not right with my prediction at all this week and Haley is continuing to move another step closer to winning the Season 10 Miss American Idol crown.
It seems like James Durbin is set to follow in the footsteps of Chris Daughtry who was eliminated at this same point during Season 5, but went on to release the top selling album for all of 2007.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
The Top 5 sing Now & Then
Each of the top 5 finalists will be singing two songs tonight. One that is current and contemporary while the other is a classic oldie. They got some guidance from 1994 Grammy winner for Best New Artist: Sheryl Crow. After each review this week I will be giving two scores on a scale of 1 to 10. One for stage presence and another for vocals. (1 is really bad and 10 is exceptional superstar talent)
30 Seconds to Mars had a huge hit last year called Closer To The Edge that was a perfect choice to show how James Durbin can connect his classic heavy metal energy to a fresh and current sound. He completely owned the stage like he was entertaining to a sold out arena. Without You was a #1 smash in 1972 for Nilsson and then it was a huge hit again hitting #3 in 1994 for iconic superstar and 1990 Grammy Winner for Best New Artist, Mariah Carey. James further demonstrated his emotional depth with his raw and tear-jerking interpretation of this outstanding song. To say he gave the audience chills only scratches the surface. Stage Presence: 9. Vocals: 9
The Season 6 Miss American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks had a huge #3 hit with No Air in 2008. Jacob Lusk completely butchered this passionate R&B slow jam with his over dramatic screeching vocals. Rock group Nazareth hit #8 in 1976 with Love Hurts and Jacob did his best to show some range by taking on this power ballad, but once again the vocals might have been strong, but they were totally out of control and he looks awkward and dresses all wrong every time he is on stage. Stage Presence: 3. Vocals: 5.
The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood included Flat On The Floor on her second multi-platinum album, Carnival Ride. Lauren Alaina gave it her best effort, but the fact remains that she has no personality to speak of no matter how she dresses or what she does on stage. The Righteous Brothers truly created a timeless classic when they first charted with Unchained Melody at #4 in 1965. It's an emotional powerhouse vocal extravaganza and Lauren managed to put in her best vocal performance of the competition so far with this effort. But the reality is that she threw away many opportunities to showcase her voice with weak choices. The world has heard many many better versions of this song leaving hers to be completely forgettable. Stage Presence: 4. Vocals: 7.
Scotty McCreery used the Montgomery Gentry song, Gone, to try and show he can do something uptempo and move around the stage. He then used the 1982 Grammy Winner for Song of the Year, Always On My Mind, to demonstrate his tender side. Either way, Scotty ended up falling short of the mark. There is nothing exceptional to say about him. Stage Presence: 5. Vocals: 5.
Lady Gaga performs You and I as part of her live concerts and Haley Reinhart had the honor of bringing this unreleased song to the American Idol stage. Lady Gaga will definitely benefit from the exposure on the top rated show on TV, but she has nothing to be threatened about with the way Haley did it. This girl gets up on stage and does every corny and comical mannerism that comedians use to mock Casino lounge singers or cruise line entertainers. It's impossible to take her seriously. The Animals spent three weeks at #1 in 1964 with The House of the Rising Sun. Haley had some small moments of vocal talent buried under this performance but you had to get past the feeling that she is part of the show this season playing a big joke on all of us. Stage Presence: 3. Vocals: 6.
From the scoring system, it's plain to see that James Durbin is the clear front-runner, but all of the others seem to be competing very hard to be the next one eliminated. My prediction for the bottom three this week is Jacob, Lauren and Scotty with Jacob finally going home.
30 Seconds to Mars had a huge hit last year called Closer To The Edge that was a perfect choice to show how James Durbin can connect his classic heavy metal energy to a fresh and current sound. He completely owned the stage like he was entertaining to a sold out arena. Without You was a #1 smash in 1972 for Nilsson and then it was a huge hit again hitting #3 in 1994 for iconic superstar and 1990 Grammy Winner for Best New Artist, Mariah Carey. James further demonstrated his emotional depth with his raw and tear-jerking interpretation of this outstanding song. To say he gave the audience chills only scratches the surface. Stage Presence: 9. Vocals: 9
The Season 6 Miss American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks had a huge #3 hit with No Air in 2008. Jacob Lusk completely butchered this passionate R&B slow jam with his over dramatic screeching vocals. Rock group Nazareth hit #8 in 1976 with Love Hurts and Jacob did his best to show some range by taking on this power ballad, but once again the vocals might have been strong, but they were totally out of control and he looks awkward and dresses all wrong every time he is on stage. Stage Presence: 3. Vocals: 5.
The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood included Flat On The Floor on her second multi-platinum album, Carnival Ride. Lauren Alaina gave it her best effort, but the fact remains that she has no personality to speak of no matter how she dresses or what she does on stage. The Righteous Brothers truly created a timeless classic when they first charted with Unchained Melody at #4 in 1965. It's an emotional powerhouse vocal extravaganza and Lauren managed to put in her best vocal performance of the competition so far with this effort. But the reality is that she threw away many opportunities to showcase her voice with weak choices. The world has heard many many better versions of this song leaving hers to be completely forgettable. Stage Presence: 4. Vocals: 7.
Scotty McCreery used the Montgomery Gentry song, Gone, to try and show he can do something uptempo and move around the stage. He then used the 1982 Grammy Winner for Song of the Year, Always On My Mind, to demonstrate his tender side. Either way, Scotty ended up falling short of the mark. There is nothing exceptional to say about him. Stage Presence: 5. Vocals: 5.
Lady Gaga performs You and I as part of her live concerts and Haley Reinhart had the honor of bringing this unreleased song to the American Idol stage. Lady Gaga will definitely benefit from the exposure on the top rated show on TV, but she has nothing to be threatened about with the way Haley did it. This girl gets up on stage and does every corny and comical mannerism that comedians use to mock Casino lounge singers or cruise line entertainers. It's impossible to take her seriously. The Animals spent three weeks at #1 in 1964 with The House of the Rising Sun. Haley had some small moments of vocal talent buried under this performance but you had to get past the feeling that she is part of the show this season playing a big joke on all of us. Stage Presence: 3. Vocals: 6.
From the scoring system, it's plain to see that James Durbin is the clear front-runner, but all of the others seem to be competing very hard to be the next one eliminated. My prediction for the bottom three this week is Jacob, Lauren and Scotty with Jacob finally going home.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Clay Aiken is BACK!
FIVE Top 10 Albums on the Billboard 200 Chart:
With his latest album "Tried & True" becoming his fifth top 10 on the Billboard 200 with a debut at No. 9 this week, The Season Two Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up Clay Aiken passes The Season One Miss American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson for most top 10s on the tally by an "American Idol" graduate.
The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season Four winner Carrie Underwood ranks third among the Fox TV series' former finalists with three top 10 albums: Some Hearts, Carnival Ride and Play On.
The Season Five Miss American Idol 3rd Runner Up, Chris Daughtry, Season Five finalist, Kellie Pickler, The Season Six Miss American Idol Winner, Jordin Sparks and the Season Two Miss American Idol Winner Ruben Studdard have all had two top 10 albums on the Billboard 200.
Clay Aiken first appeared on the Billboard 200 with "Measure of a Man," which spent its first two weeks at No. 1 in November 2003. This album still holds the record for the highest one week sales for any Miss American Idol finalist. He revisited the top tier with "Merry Christmas With Love" (No. 4, 2004), "A Thousand Different Ways" (No. 2, 2006) and "On My Way Here" (No. 4, 2008).
With his latest album "Tried & True" becoming his fifth top 10 on the Billboard 200 with a debut at No. 9 this week, The Season Two Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up Clay Aiken passes The Season One Miss American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson for most top 10s on the tally by an "American Idol" graduate.
The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season Four winner Carrie Underwood ranks third among the Fox TV series' former finalists with three top 10 albums: Some Hearts, Carnival Ride and Play On.
The Season Five Miss American Idol 3rd Runner Up, Chris Daughtry, Season Five finalist, Kellie Pickler, The Season Six Miss American Idol Winner, Jordin Sparks and the Season Two Miss American Idol Winner Ruben Studdard have all had two top 10 albums on the Billboard 200.
Clay Aiken first appeared on the Billboard 200 with "Measure of a Man," which spent its first two weeks at No. 1 in November 2003. This album still holds the record for the highest one week sales for any Miss American Idol finalist. He revisited the top tier with "Merry Christmas With Love" (No. 4, 2004), "A Thousand Different Ways" (No. 2, 2006) and "On My Way Here" (No. 4, 2008).
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