Top 10 Songs of 2022

 The Top 10 songs of 2022!!

2022 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:

About Damn Time - Lizzo

The world is so lucky to have a genuinely dynamic and interesting artist like Lizzo giving her voice and personality to such fun, catchy and great music. She is truly a breath of fresh air in the toxic environment of social media attention seekers. It's About Damn Time that she gets the recognition, accolades and awards she deserves.      

Late Night Talking - Harry Styles

From the moment the beat kicks in you are transported to the disco ball illuminated roller rink to thoroughly enjoy this slice of artfully crafted pop music perfection.    

Shivers - Ed Sheeran 

Ed's follow up single to last year's Bad Habits proved that he means business when it comes to being more than just a sweet and nice balladeer. Shivers kept us dancing tapping our toes all the way into the new year.        

I Like You - Post Malone and Doja Cat

While it's been a couple of years since Post Malone delivered an across the board pop smash, Doja Cat has been on a hot streak for three years in a row now. The two of them together guaranteed a sure fire across the board crowd pleaser.           

Big Energy (REMIX) - Latto and Mariah Carey

Tom Tom Club's Genius of Love has to be the most well-liked song for sampling in history. Already a huge #1 hit used in Fantasy by Mariah Carey in 1995 it came back again this year and Latto was very smart to invite Mariah back for the ride. The song was stalling on the charts until the remix breathed new life into it and suddenly it was inescapable.          

Sun Roof - Nicky Youre and Dazy

This song came out of nowhere from a completely new artist and it became an immediately memorable part of the pop music soundtrack for the year.          

Bad Habit - Steve Lacy

Gotta love it when a rap/hip hop artist comes out as bisexual - sparking your interest - and then listening to find that you genuinely enjoy the song.         

The Kind of Love We Make - Luke Combs

For two years in a row now he has won the CMA Country Music Association Entertainer of the Year and it's because he knows how to crank out powerful love songs with a great beat. Play this with the man you love and see if it doesn't help put you both in a good mood.    

As It Was - Harry Styles

He's a text book case study for the artist who wants to be the most successful break out solo act after being a part of the biggest boy band in history. The high fashion persona, the sexually fluid appeal to anyone and everyone along with the catchy hits with a great beat. Turn on any radio station for the entire year and this song was playing - SUCCESS!   

I Ain't Worried - One Republic 

One of the best parts of the first Top Gun movie was the hit packed soundtrack. While the Top Gun sequel all these years later failed to deliver multiple hits, it did serve this very buoyant jam to entertain our ears as we left the theater.  

More Favorite Songs of 2019

I recently listed my Top 10 Favorite Songs of 2019. 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 2019. 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, streams and radio airplay for any given week.

There were lots of other songs that I loved in 2019 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 2019. 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 and B would all find their way to the upper positions of the Billboard HOT 100.

Love You Too Late - Cole Swindell: This is a super fun high energy song perfect for doing many of your favorite dances at a country bar - As a shuffle partner dance, stationary cha cha, or a county line.     

There Was This Girl - Riley Green: There was this great beat. There was this sexy country singer. There was no way this was not going to be a favorite for the year.     

Miss Me More - Kelsea Ballerini: One of the Next Women of Country continuing to climb and go to the next level with hot, fun and catchy songs.  

Good Vibes - Chris Janson: First of all, it's a great song with an inspiring and uplifting message. But you have to see this man live in concert!!! He puts on an outstanding show that will blow you away!    

Southbound - Carrie Underwood: The summer time/Spring Break anthem for this year and for the ages from one of the best singers out there.   

A No No - Mariah Carey: We all know that she dominated at Christmas time spending three weeks at #1 on the Billboard HOT 100, but she did so much more in 2019 that is worthy of attention. This song from her very critically acclaimed album Caution was described by The New York Times as showing her as perfect for this moment in R&B (Again).  

What Happens In A Small Town - Brantley Gilbert and Lindsay Ell: Two sexy country singers coming together to give us a sexy guitar driven love song.  

I Don't Know About You - Chris Lane: It's the song that always seemed to be playing every time I turned on the radio, and I liked it more and more every time.  

The Git Up - Blanco Brown: It's very rare that a song comes a long that not only inspires a viral trend #GitUpChallenge but you also know it's going to live on forever at wedding receptions for all of eternity.   

What If I Never Get Over You - Lady Antebellum: 10 years into their amazing career and they are still serving up the best music has to offer.   

More Favorite Songs of 2017

I recently listed my Top 10 Favorite Songs of 2017. 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 2017. 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, streams and radio airplay for any given week.

There were lots of other songs that I loved in 2017 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 2017. 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 and B would all find their way to the upper positions of the Billboard HOT 100.

Unforgettable (Mariah Carey Remix) - French Montana: While the original version of this song actually was a huge Top 10 hit on the Billboard HOT 100, it didn't actually catch my attention until the far superior Mariah Carey remix was released. Her outstanding vocals are a perfect match to the thumping beat. Radio should have gotten their act together and played this version in heavy rotation.     

It Ain't My Fault - Brothers Osbourne: Get on your feet and clap your hands along with the high energy country jam. The video is a high speed chase and adventure that takes you along for the ride.     

The Fighter - Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban: We needed something to hold us over while Carrie is between albums and this pop infused country song fit the bill perfectly. 


Drinkin' Problem - Midland: These guys are keeping traditional country sounds alive with this song that is perfect for a stationary cha cha.   

What Ifs - Kane Brown and Lauren Alaina: We shouldn't drive ourselves crazy thinking about how things could be different, but this song sure captures all of the feelings very well.    

Seeing Red - Dustin Lynch: A young country artist who still wears jeans, boots and cowboy hat! So sexy and sings red hot songs too!    

I Could Use A Love Song - Maren Morris: One of the next women of country with a great song that is a perfect two step.     

Dirt On My Boots - Jon Pardi: He won the CMA Award for New Artist of the Year because of great songs like this.   

Road Less Traveled - Lauren Alaina: It's been 6 years since she was the 1st Runner Up on American Idol and she has finally had her breakthrough hit. It was worth the wait!   

Something I'm Good At - Brett Eldredge: He's got a great voice, great personality and a great sense of humor. And, of course, great songs like this one that is perfect for an energetic quick step. 

Somebody Else Will - Justin Moore: What else can I say except that it's a good song I like to hear on repeat. 

More Favorite Songs of 2016

I recently listed my Top 10 Favorite Songs of 2016. 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 2016. 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, streams and radio airplay for any given week.

There were lots of other songs that I loved in 2016 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 2016. 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 and B would all find their way to the upper positions of the Billboard HOT 100.

Stronger Together - Jessica Sanchez: The anthem to celebrate the first woman President of the United States. Now I know something went wrong, but it's still an inspiring anthem.    

Perfect Illusion - Lady Gaga: The public can be so harsh. It's one of her best songs ever but she set the standard for herself so high that it's like nothing is ever going to be good enough again.    

Church Bells - Carrie Underwood: Another great story about a man who has done his woman wrong and paid the ultimate price. No one delivers better than Carrie.


Forever Country - Artists of Then, Now and Forever: In celebration of the 50th Annual CMA Awards the biggest in country music all came together to perform this outstanding slice of nostalgia. John Denver would have been very proud.  

You Should Be Here - Cole Swindell: This heartfelt ballad takes you on the emotional roller coaster every time you miss someone and wish they were enjoying a festive moment with you.   

We Went - Randy Houser: A high energy two step about some country bumpkins who steal from the rich and give to the poor and it turns into a hot pursuit police chase!   

Girl Next Door - Brandy Clark: A wonderful songwriter and performer who is sadly overlooked by the masses. Her breakthrough should be coming any day now with songs this good.    

Humble and Kind - Tim McGraw: Beautiful words to live by. Plain and simple, yet completely powerful. The CMT Video of the Year and the CMA Song of the Year.   

Move - Luke Bryan: This country boy is shaking it for us and it's always good!  

Infamous - Mariah Carey and Jussie Smollett: The legendary diva made an appearance on Empire and she performed this amazing song.

More Favorite Songs of 2015

I recently listed my Top 10 Favorite Songs of 2015. 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 2015. 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 2015 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 2015. 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 and B would all find their way to the upper positions of the Billboard HOT 100.

Lose My Mind - Brett Eldredge: He's tall and sexy and he sings hot new country hits.   

Make Me Wanna - Thomas Rhett: Such a great beat paired with a handsome guy singing great vocals.   

Smoke Break - Carrie Underwood: She shifts gears to show her more down home country side on this catchy hit.


Take Your Time - Sam Hunt: Talk / Singing is totally a thing thanks to this amazing ballad. 

I Still Love You - Jennifer Hudson: What a perfect song to celebrate marriage equality!!!!  

Loving Your Easy - Zac Brown Band: A throwback sound of 60's Motown updated to perfection.  

Levels - Nick Jonas: The perfect sound for a grown up boy band member going solo. So hot he makes the Queens Scream!   

Biscuits - Kacey Musgraves: More wonderful words of wisdom by a talented young lady who is bringing classic country into the new era.   

Lay Low - Josh Turner: That wonderful deep voice always pulls me in. Yes, Josh, we would love to disappear with you for a while.  

Kick The Dust Up - Luke Bryan: This two time Entertainer of the Year can always be counted on to bring the party. 

Infinity - Mariah Carey: Her outstanding show at the Colosseum in Caesars Palace in Las Vegas has her performing all 18 of her Billboard HOT 100 #1 singles. She finishes the show with this wonderful song and leaves us all wanting more.

Favorite Albums of 2014

These were my favorite new albums of 2014:

Me. I Am Mariah: The Elusive Chanteuse - Mariah Carey

She has one of the most amazing voices in all of music and her new release in 2014 is an outstanding showcase for her depth and range. From the heartfelt ballad You're Mine to the joyful happiness of Make It Look Good there is something for every one here. The fact is that she has written songs for this collection that reflect an emotional level of wisdom and maturity that Mariah is rarely given credit for having. This is without a doubt the most under-rated and overlooked album of the year. From the open cut, Cry, where she displays a raw vulnerability, to the uplifting gospel closing track, Heavenly, Mariah is better than ever. The array of songs in between have catchy sing a long hooks and toe tapping beats that we have come to expect from Mariah, but on this collection they are actually better than we have ever heard from her in the past. If you love music, do yourself a favor and let yourself enjoy this hidden gem.

747 - Lady Antebellum

The fifth release from Lady Antebellum is another collection of great songs that you can listen to from beginning to end. Its first single was the outstanding country/pop jam, Bartender. The album is packed with other potential hit singles from the title track, 747 to the opening cut Long Stretch of Love. In addition, this collection is full of songs that pull on your emotional heart strings telling stories of love and longing like Damn You 17 and One Great Mystery.

My Everything - Ariana Grande

Ariana Grande was able to be the dominant force in pop music in 2014 because her sophomore album, My Everything, is over flowing with amazing pop music. The first single, Problem, grabs your attention with its infectious saxophone riff and keeps your attention with her amazing vocals singing the catchy hooks. While Problem was still dominating the charts, two more singles were released at the same time. Break Free is a high energy disco dance anthem while the superstar collaboration with Jessie J, Bang Bang, is without competition the party anthem of the year. As the year came to an end the fourth single, Love Me Harder, was all over the airwaves. With all of the other amazing tracks on this album, it is sure to remain dominant throughout 2015.

JHUD - Jennifer Hudson

The Season 3 Miss American Idol finalist and Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson is well known for her exceptional vocal abilities. She has won Grammys and critical praise for her first two albums, but on this third collection, JHUD, I think she has found the perfect songs and the perfect sound that fit her best. This album is an R&B/disco and funk filled musical extravaganza. Every track is a stand out because her powerhouse voice is matched with slamming and jamming beats that can keep up with her. This album is perfect for a festive party or for playing loud while you are driving. When one song ends it's fun to keep listening and hear the next one!

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 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.

The Top 9 Sing the Beatles

American Idol judge, Mariah Carey, has set the standard that all of the finalists are striving to achieve. She has sustained a 24 year career selling over 200 million albums worldwide. In the process she successfully catapulted 18 singles to #1 on the Billboard HOT 100 chart - more than any other solo artist in history! The only act to have more #1 singles than Mariah is the Beatles and tonight, the Top 9 finalists will perform a selection from their impressive catalog.

Before we get started: Congratulations to Aubrey Cleland who will be joining the 2013 American Idol Summer Tour!!!

With A Little Help From My Friends originally appeared on the album Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band. Kree Harrison delivered a lackluster performance of this anthem. With her bland personality and no stage presence, the background singers and the band completely stole the spotlight from her. There was only a few moments when her voice was even audible.

Let It Be hit #1 for 2 weeks in April of 1970. Burnell Taylor seemed completely disconnected from the song that he had clearly never heard of before this week. His performance was awkward and the vocals sounded forced and unnatural.

She's Leaving Home is another track from the album Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band. Amber Holcomb used this lovely ballad to showcase her impressive vocal range. She looked classy and poised as she simply let the notes fly through the air and please our ears.

In My Life from the album Rubber Soul is one of the most beautiful songs ever written. When this tender ballad is matched with the charm and sweetness of Lazaro Arbos it is a completely winning combination. He just exudes tenderness and he is a pleasure to cheer for!

Come Together from the Abbey Road album hit #1 for 1 week in October of 1969. We already know that Candice Glover has a big voice with a big range, but with this song she also showed us that she can rock and jam as well.

Eleanor Rigby originally appeared on the album Revolver. Paul Jolley totally used this song to showcase his outstanding ability to be a wonderful story teller. The lyrics came to life and we felt them with every big note that he sang.

Yesterday spent 4 weeks at #1 in 1965. Angie Miller quite simply defined the essense of the Season 12 Miss American Idol winner with this effortless and stellar performance of this classic ballad. Her vocals out shined all of the competition and she genuinely commanded the stage while just standing there center stage at the microphone. She can sing anything!

The 20th and final #1 for the Beatles was The Long And Winding Road: 2 weeks in June 1970. Devin Velez performed a flawless vocal rendition of this song. It was simple and beautiful and should keep him in the competition.

I Will originally appeared on The White Album. Janelle Arthur was the embodiment of grace and beauty as she looked like an angel in a long white gown. She served up a delicious serving of vocal elegance.

It was a great night of Beatles classics tonight. My prediction for the bottom three is Kree Harrison, Burnell Taylor and Paul Jolley with the journey coming to an end for Burnell Taylor.

And Season 12 Begins!

In less than a week American Idol will start it's 12th Season and the search for another superstar will begin! Yesterday I was lucky enough to attend an American Idol Premiere advance screening event with a live Q&A with the new panel of judges.

It was right after work so I had to finish things up for the day and head out so I could make it to the movie theater in time to meet my friend Ryan and get in line. It was so great to be there with other American Idol and Mariah Carey fans who are all looking forward to this next chapter. While waiting in line the local FOX News cameras came by to film all of the energy and anticipation of the eager crowd. One of the most notable things about the group in the line was how diverse it was.

A lot of credit has to be given to the American Idol producers for selecting a panel of judges that is going to attract all demographics. Mariah Carey, Keith Urban and Nicki Minaj are all very different and the same is true for their base of loyal fans. We were surrounded by fans young and old, gay and straight, black and white, lovers of country, soul, hip hop and R&B.

The screening included a free box of popcorn and a diet coke for everyone in the theater. We had a chance to see the first round of auditions on the big screen. There were a few really misguided bad singers as usual, but there were also some very inspirational talents to be found. I am sure everyone is hoping to see the young man with the stutter make it far in the competition this year. He had the entire theater crying along with him.

The Q&A afterward had the new panel of judges on their best behavior. We got a chance to see a sample of how they will be interacting during the competition. Keith is an easy-going guy who knows what he is talking about and what he is looking for in a new talent. Nicki is out-spoken, opinionated and speaks her mind loudly and proudly. Mariah also has a strong point of view, but the difference is that she expresses it in a more subdued manner.  

Just like it has been widely reported that there is some dysfunctional friction between the new judges, the same was to be found among the fans in the theater. The Nicki Minaj fans were the most vocal of the group to sing her praises to the extent of coming off as loud, obnoxious, unpleasant and rude. While the more classy and respectful Mariah Carey and Keith Urban fans had to endure all of this enthusiastic drama during the screening, the good thing to be found in it is that a whole new group of young people has discovered American Idol for the first time.

Yes, these immature Nicki fans threw popcorn around the theater and kicked the back of people's chairs, but hopefully, by the end of the season they might learn that some professionalism and respect is also a part of being a pop superstar.

At the end of the screening we are all given free American Idol hats and t-shirts. I am sure to be wearing mine quite a bit over the next few months!

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.   

Christmas Time Is In The Air Again

The Season 11 Miss American Idol winner Phillip Phillips sees his first album "The World From the Side of the Moon" debut on the Billboard Top 200 albums chart at #4 with sales of 169,000 copies. In addition, his single, Home, has been in the top 10 of the itunes sales chart for many weeks now and it is holding strong at #12 this week on the Billboard HOT 100.

For comparison, the season 10 Miss American Idol winner, Scotty McCreery, entered at #1 on the Billboard Top 200 albums chart in October of last year with his first album, "Clear as Day." It bowed with the more robust figure of 197,000 copies sold.

In other more holiday festive news, Scotty McCreery performed at the Christmas in Rockefeller Center to promote his new collection of holiday songs. He sang Holly Jolly Christmas.

Also performing this Rockefeller Center tree lighting event was the Queen of Christmas and brand new American Idol judge, Mariah Carey. She opened the show with a super fun rendition of her anthem All I Want For Christmas Is You. Then at the end of the night she returned to perform Christmas Time Is In The Air Again from her amazing holiday collection Merry Christmas 2 You. She looked stunning is a long silver gown and her vocals were simply outstanding. I can think of no better way to kick off the holiday season!

Mariah Carey joins American Idol

Here is the official press release announcing the BEST NEWS EVER!!!!!

PLATINUM-SELLING GLOBAL MEGASTAR MARIAH CAREYJOINS AMERICAN IDOL AS NEW JUDGE


Mariah Carey, one of the best-selling female recording artists of all time, has joined AMERICAN IDOL as a new judge. A five-time Grammy Award-winning global superstar with more than 200 million records sold worldwide and more No. 1 songs than any solo artist in history, her 18 Billboard No. 1 singles (17 of which Carey wrote) rival all but The Beatles. Carey joins the judges' panel when AMERICAN IDOL returns in January 2013 on FOX.

"As a singer, songwriter and producer, it's going to be fun and rewarding to help find new talent and give back with AMERICAN IDOL," said Mariah Carey. "I'm currently in the studio working on my new album and its first single, 'Triumphant,' which will be out early next month. I can't wait to channel my creative energy as a part of this show which is a massive global phenomenon."

"We are proud to have one of the world's greatest-ever female singers join our show," said IDOL creator and executive producer Simon Fuller. "Mariah defines the word 'Idol' and will inspire every singer that has the honor of performing in front of her."

"Mariah Carey is a global icon whose list of musical accomplishments is unprecedented," said Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia. "Having sold more than 200 million records worldwide, she's a true artist, ideally suited to identify and nurture AMERICAN IDOL's next great music superstars. We warmly welcome her to the IDOL family."

"Mariah Carey is the real deal. Not only is she one of the best-selling artists and performers on the planet and one of the world's most gifted vocalists, she also is a successful songwriter, record producer and actress," said Mike Darnell, President of Alternative Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. "She has a deep knowledge of music and a career insight that will make her a really amazing asset to our judges' table and to our contestants.

It's the dream of almost everyone who auditions for IDOL to sing like Mariah and we couldn't be happier to have her be part of the show."

With a distinct five-octave vocal range, prolific songwriting and producing talent, Carey has defined the modern pop performance. As a singer/songwriter/producer, she has been recognized with five Grammy Awards, nine American Music Awards, Billboard's Artist of the Decade Award, the World Music Award for World's Best Selling Female Artist of the Millennium and BMI's Icon Award, to name a few. She has two consecutive and unparalleled Billboard Song of the Decade titles: "One Sweet Day" (with Boyz II Men); and "We Belong Together," further marking her massive presence on the charts since her 1990 song debut "Vision of Love." Mariah became the second artist in history and the first female performer to have a song debut at No. 1 with "Fantasy" (1995), the groundbreaking collaboration with O.D.B. of the innovative rap group Wu-Tang Clan. Carey's original holiday classic, "All I Want For Christmas is You," redefined its place in pop culture as one of the greatest holiday hits of all time when it reached No. 1 on the Billboard charts in 2011, 17 years after its debut. Carey's influential and stellar contribution to the music industry spans multiple genres and is showcased through a multifaceted hit catalogue as well as a long list of diverse collaborations.

Carey's ongoing impact transcends the music industry and has left an indelible imprint upon the world at large. She recently made a substantial mark in film with her critically acclaimed role as a social worker in Precious, the 2009 film based on the novel Push, by Sapphire. A Congressional Award recipient, Carey has generously donated her time and energy to a range of domestic and international philanthropic causes near to her heart, including The Fresh Air Fund/Camp Mariah (a retreat where inner-city children explore career development), Save the Music Foundation and Make-a-Wish Foundation, among several others.

Carey is currently in the studio, writing, recording and executive-producing her next album for Island Def Jam Music Group, with the lead single, "Triumphant."

AMERICAN IDOL has been the No. 1 entertainment program among Total Viewers for the past nine consecutive seasons. To date, IDOL alums have produced 349 No. 1 Billboard hits and garnered nearly 250 million iTunes downloads. Last year, Season 10 winner Scotty McCreery released his debut album, Clear As Day, which dominated the Billboard Country Albums chart and has gone platinum, selling more than one million copies. Season 11 winner Phillip Phillips' first single, "Home," which was released May 23, has been certified gold.

The Top 3 Perform

The top 3 finalists will each sing three songs tonight: 

Randy Jackson selected an a bluesy Etta James song, I Would Rather Go Blind, as the judge's choice for Joshua Ledet to sing. It was more of the retro-same usual for him. He delivered the same over the top gospel tinged classic R&B vocals that he always does.

Jennifer Lopez selected a song that became Mariah Carey's 13th #1 hit song on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1998, My All, for Jessica Sanchez to sing. This tender ballad allowed Jessica to show off even more of her outstanding and impressive vocal range. In addition to sounding wonderful, she showed off her incredible breath control as she tackled this very difficult musical composition.

Steven Tyler selected a song called Beggin for Phillip Phillips to sing. He is who he is and that's all that he is. Same clothes he always wears. Same guitar. Same painful, strained attempt at singing.

For his own personal song choice, Joshua Ledet decided to sing the classic and inspirational John Lennon anthem, Imagine, that hit #3 in 1971. It started out better than it finished. He showed some classy vocal restraint on the first verse that illustrated how less can be more sometimes. He completely lacks subtlety in every vocal interpretation that he provides as he ended up taking it over the top when it was unnecessary.

For her own personal song choice, Jessica Sanchez decided to sing the Aerosmith song that spent four weeks at #1 in 1998, I Don't Want To Miss A Thing. Without a doubt she sang it better than Steven Tyler ever could have no matter how hard he tried. In her hands it was an entirely new song elevated to a higher plane of enlightenment.

For his own personal song choice, Phillip decided to sing a watered down and bland version of Disease by Matchbox 20. Same clothes he always wears. Same guitar. Same painful, strained attempt at singing.

Mary J. Blige took No More Drama to #15 in 2002. This is the most current thing that Joshua Ledet has attempted in a long time and it's an example of what he might sound like on the radio someday. What he lacks in versatility he makes up for with his energy. So unlike the song title, he brings more drama with an extra serving of drama on the side.

Mariah Carey took I'll Be There to #1 in 1992 (her 6th #1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100). This is a song selection that is supposed to combine the maturity of Jessica's amazing voice with her actual youthful age of only 16. Once again, she sounded incredible and totally ageless. She simply has a rare vocal gift that is exemplified by her ability to do such a great job on Mariah Carey classics.

We've Got Tonight hit #6 in 1983 by Kenny Rogers and Sheena Easton and it is one of the most romantic and beautiful love songs ever written. Phillip Phillips was a complete mess trying to sing it. He looked like a deer in the headlights nervously forgetting the lyrics and failing to hit any of the notes accurately. It was a sad, flat and lifeless attempt.

There's no point in making predictions anymore. Phillip doesn't get any better and yet he is still around, so he's clearly on a path to winning the Season 11 Miss American Idol crown next week. The judges have gushed with praise for Joshua all season long. Jessica is the most talented vocalist the competition has seen in a few years so she is probably the one who is leaving the competition tomorrow to make room for a Joshua/Phillip face off in the finals.