The top 8 finalists are singing the music of Motown/Detroit:
I Heard It Through the Grapevine was a huge hit for both Gladys Knight and Marvin Gaye with very different versions. Candice Glover opened the show with a third completely different arrangement of this great song. It was jazzy and sultry and she sounded wonderful.
Madonna hit #1 in 1989 with Like A Prayer. Kree Harrison did a really good job serving as a background singer for Janelle Arthur. Where Kree was bland, boring and almost not even noticeable, Janelle was vibrant and showcasing big star quality.
For Once In My Life was a signature hit song by Stevie Wonder that peaked at #2 in 1968. Lazaro Arbos once again lit up the stage with his radiant smile, outstanding fashion sense and sweet personality. This song allowed him to deliver another crystal clear vocal performance. He can do no wrong!
You Keep Me Hanging On was one of the 12 #1 hit songs by Diana Ross and The Supremes. Janelle Arthur completely exuded even more star quality with her stripped down acoustic version of this classic. She played guitar and her vocals were emotionally heartfelt and she told the story in the lyrics better than anyone ever has.
The Tracks of My Tears was a hit in 1965 for Smokey Robinson and The Miracles. Devin Velez settled nicely in his comfort zone with this wonderful song. It was simple, straightforward and nothing distracted from his voice.
I'm Gonna Make You Love Me was a huge Motown collaboration by the Supremes and the Temptations that hit #2 in 1968. Tonight the Miss American Idol huge collaboration was delivered by Angie Miller, Candice Glover and Amber Holcomb. Candice and Amber were the ones relegated to back-up singers because they were simply overshadowed by Angie's stellar stage presence and superior vocals.
My Cherie Amour hit #4 in 1969 by Stevie Wonder. Burnell Taylor should just pack his bags and go home now. It was strained, clumsy and awkward. He looks like he's asleep up there.
Shop Around was a #2 smash hit for Smokey Robinson and the Miracles in 1961. Angie Miller completely owned the stage with a hard rock, guitar driven arrangement of this fun song. You couldn't take your eyes off of her because she looked fantastic as she totally worked it out and entertained the crowd.
Lately by Stevie Wonder didn't actually become a hit until 1993 when Jodeci hit #4 with it. Amber Holcomb belted it out exactly how it needs to be done. She has a powerful voice and this song let her show it off.
I Can't Help Myself was a #1 hit for the Four Tops in 1965. Devin, Burnell and Lazaro, unfortunately, struggled to remember the lyrics on the pop classic. At least Devin and Lazaro looked great, but Burnell has a strange eye contact problem. He doesn't seem to be present because he is looking off into space.
Don't Play That Song was a hit for Aretha Franklin in 1970. Kree Harrison served up the most bland stereotypical white girl effort of trying to take on the Queen of Soul. It was pretty embarrassing. Kree has absolutely zero stage presence and no personality.
My prediction for the bottom three is Amber, Kree and Burnell with Burnell finally going home.
Showing posts with label Stevie Wonder. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Stevie Wonder. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Thursday, March 8, 2012
The Results - Boys Vs. Girls
The Top 13 opened this very first results show of the competition with a very good arrangement and a well-choreographed performance of Stevie Wonder's hit As that hit #36 in 1977.
Jessica, Elise and Holly were the first to have to stand center stage and hear the news. Jessica and Holly are safe while Elise is the first girl in the bottom three.
Next came Jermaine, Colton and Heejun. The results placed Jermaine as the first boy in the bottom three and Colton and Heejun safely coming back next week.
The Season 10 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up made her return to the stage to perform Georgia Peaches from her debut album Wildflower. It's a pretty fun song, but she was a little over-confident with her performance style. As she tried to be all cool, flirty and casual she lost sight of her monitors and sound equipment. She ended up just pulling it off completely when she tripped on the cord finishing up the song quite messily.
Erika, Shannon and Skylar were next. Skylar is safe leaving both Erika and Shannon to join Elise in the bottom three girls.
Jeremy, Phillip, Joshua and Deandre then had to take their place center stage. Phillip and Deandre are safe placing Joshua and Jeremy into the bottom three boys with Jermaine. Joshua wasn't there for long as Ryan very quickly sent both him and Erika back to safety.
Mary J. Blige has an impressive history of hits dating back to her #7 hit Real Love from 1992. She peaked at #2 twice with Not Gon' Cry from the Waiting To Exhale soundtrack in 1996 and Be Without You in 2006. She hit the #1 position on the Billboard HOT 100 chart in 2001 with Family Affair. Tonight she took the stage to perform her latest single called Why.
Jermaine, Jeremy, Shannon and Elise are the bottom four. With Jermaine and Shannon safe, that means the final Boys Vs. Girls elimination is between Jeremy and Elise.
The judges decided to save Elise, meaning that the nicest and sweetest young man that this competition has ever seen, Jeremy Rosado is going home.
I correctly predicted that Jeremy, Joshua, Elise and Shannon would be among the lowest vote getters, but it really should have been Shannon going home tonight. Let's see how much she messes up next week.....
Jessica, Elise and Holly were the first to have to stand center stage and hear the news. Jessica and Holly are safe while Elise is the first girl in the bottom three.
Next came Jermaine, Colton and Heejun. The results placed Jermaine as the first boy in the bottom three and Colton and Heejun safely coming back next week.
The Season 10 Miss American Idol 1st Runner Up made her return to the stage to perform Georgia Peaches from her debut album Wildflower. It's a pretty fun song, but she was a little over-confident with her performance style. As she tried to be all cool, flirty and casual she lost sight of her monitors and sound equipment. She ended up just pulling it off completely when she tripped on the cord finishing up the song quite messily.
Erika, Shannon and Skylar were next. Skylar is safe leaving both Erika and Shannon to join Elise in the bottom three girls.
Jeremy, Phillip, Joshua and Deandre then had to take their place center stage. Phillip and Deandre are safe placing Joshua and Jeremy into the bottom three boys with Jermaine. Joshua wasn't there for long as Ryan very quickly sent both him and Erika back to safety.
Mary J. Blige has an impressive history of hits dating back to her #7 hit Real Love from 1992. She peaked at #2 twice with Not Gon' Cry from the Waiting To Exhale soundtrack in 1996 and Be Without You in 2006. She hit the #1 position on the Billboard HOT 100 chart in 2001 with Family Affair. Tonight she took the stage to perform her latest single called Why.
Jermaine, Jeremy, Shannon and Elise are the bottom four. With Jermaine and Shannon safe, that means the final Boys Vs. Girls elimination is between Jeremy and Elise.
The judges decided to save Elise, meaning that the nicest and sweetest young man that this competition has ever seen, Jeremy Rosado is going home.
I correctly predicted that Jeremy, Joshua, Elise and Shannon would be among the lowest vote getters, but it really should have been Shannon going home tonight. Let's see how much she messes up next week.....
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
The Top 13: Boys Vs. Girls
The top 13 finalists were guided tonight by R&B singer Mary J. Blige. The girls will all sing a Whitney Houston song and the boys will all sing from the Stevie Wonder songbook.
I Wish hit #1 in 1977. Joshua Ledet tried to show off his vocal range and talent by selecting this funky uptempo number rather than another gospel ballad. His voice is very good and that's not the problem. He has to work on channeling his energy into an entertaining performance style.
I'm Your Baby Tonight hit #1 in 1990. Elise Testone was way out of her comfort zone with this dance pop vocal rollercoaster. She rose to the occasion and gave it her best shot even though you could tell her heart wasn't really in it.
Knocks Me Off My Feet was included on the 1976 album Songs In The Key Of Life. Jermaine Jones only has one thing to bring to the party. He has a deep voice, but he has no personality, showmanship or stage presence.
I Believe In You and Me from the Preacher's Wife soundtrack hit #4 in 1997. Erika Van Pelt performed a very respectable rendition in her own personal style.
Lately was included on the 1980 album Hotter Than July. Colton Dixon completely immersed himself in the lyrics of this beautiful song and brought them to life with such passion and vulnerability. He has all the necessary rock star qualities to transform an R&B ballad into an emotional performance that gives the audience chills. Outstanding!
I Have Nothing from the Bodyguard soundtrack hit #4 in 1993. Shannon Magrane should just give up and go home now. This performance exposed her complete lack of breath control and lack of ability to handle the demands of this competition. It was sad.
Master Blaster hit #5 in 1980. Deandre Brackensick is completely overflowing with talent, vocal range, stage presence, showmanship and all the other desirable qualities in an American Idol. He was fun and energetic on stage and it's a shame the song had to end. More, more, more!
Where Do Broken Hearts Go hit #1 in 1988. Skylar Laine has the wonderful ability to take on a new song for herself and simply tell the story in the lyrics with maturity way beyond her years. The vocal interpretation was both dramatic and meaningful.
All In Love Is Fair was included on the 1973 album Innervisions. Heejun Han comes off as a completely insincere phony and he's totally unpleasant to listen to and to watch on stage.
All The Man I Need hit #1 in 1991. Hollie Cavanagh is a lovely young woman with an astoundingly big voice and crystal clear vocal range. She completely nailed this vocal performance and looked sweet, stunning and professional.
Ribbon In The Sky was included on the 1982 album Original Musiquarium. Jeremy Rosado has no problem at all revealing his sensitivity and genuine love of music and performing. He's a completely great kid that it feels good to root for. It's too bad that this song didn't allow him to really show off what he can do with his voice.
I Will Always Love You spent 14 weeks at #1 in 1993. Jessica Sanchez quite simply has an amazingly impressive vocal gift. She sings with such ease and the sound is so pure and natural. The recording industry has a new star!
Superstition hit #1 in 1972. Phillip Phillips does this whole screaming rocker act on stage, but unfortunately it lacks any indication of human emotion or understanding.
After all the votes are counted it's going to be Boys Vs. Girls as the judges will decided if the boy with the lowest number of votes or if the girl with the lowest number of votes is going home.
My prediction for the lowest votes getters is Shannon Magrane, Elise Testone, Jeremy Rosado and Joshua Ledet.
Hopefully the judges will be sending Shannon home.
I Wish hit #1 in 1977. Joshua Ledet tried to show off his vocal range and talent by selecting this funky uptempo number rather than another gospel ballad. His voice is very good and that's not the problem. He has to work on channeling his energy into an entertaining performance style.
I'm Your Baby Tonight hit #1 in 1990. Elise Testone was way out of her comfort zone with this dance pop vocal rollercoaster. She rose to the occasion and gave it her best shot even though you could tell her heart wasn't really in it.
Knocks Me Off My Feet was included on the 1976 album Songs In The Key Of Life. Jermaine Jones only has one thing to bring to the party. He has a deep voice, but he has no personality, showmanship or stage presence.
I Believe In You and Me from the Preacher's Wife soundtrack hit #4 in 1997. Erika Van Pelt performed a very respectable rendition in her own personal style.
Lately was included on the 1980 album Hotter Than July. Colton Dixon completely immersed himself in the lyrics of this beautiful song and brought them to life with such passion and vulnerability. He has all the necessary rock star qualities to transform an R&B ballad into an emotional performance that gives the audience chills. Outstanding!
I Have Nothing from the Bodyguard soundtrack hit #4 in 1993. Shannon Magrane should just give up and go home now. This performance exposed her complete lack of breath control and lack of ability to handle the demands of this competition. It was sad.
Master Blaster hit #5 in 1980. Deandre Brackensick is completely overflowing with talent, vocal range, stage presence, showmanship and all the other desirable qualities in an American Idol. He was fun and energetic on stage and it's a shame the song had to end. More, more, more!
Where Do Broken Hearts Go hit #1 in 1988. Skylar Laine has the wonderful ability to take on a new song for herself and simply tell the story in the lyrics with maturity way beyond her years. The vocal interpretation was both dramatic and meaningful.
All In Love Is Fair was included on the 1973 album Innervisions. Heejun Han comes off as a completely insincere phony and he's totally unpleasant to listen to and to watch on stage.
All The Man I Need hit #1 in 1991. Hollie Cavanagh is a lovely young woman with an astoundingly big voice and crystal clear vocal range. She completely nailed this vocal performance and looked sweet, stunning and professional.
Ribbon In The Sky was included on the 1982 album Original Musiquarium. Jeremy Rosado has no problem at all revealing his sensitivity and genuine love of music and performing. He's a completely great kid that it feels good to root for. It's too bad that this song didn't allow him to really show off what he can do with his voice.
I Will Always Love You spent 14 weeks at #1 in 1993. Jessica Sanchez quite simply has an amazingly impressive vocal gift. She sings with such ease and the sound is so pure and natural. The recording industry has a new star!
Superstition hit #1 in 1972. Phillip Phillips does this whole screaming rocker act on stage, but unfortunately it lacks any indication of human emotion or understanding.
After all the votes are counted it's going to be Boys Vs. Girls as the judges will decided if the boy with the lowest number of votes or if the girl with the lowest number of votes is going home.
My prediction for the lowest votes getters is Shannon Magrane, Elise Testone, Jeremy Rosado and Joshua Ledet.
Hopefully the judges will be sending Shannon home.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
The Results - Motown
The top 11 finalists opened the show with a super fun group performance of the Diana Ross #1 smash Ain't No Mountain High Enough, but they barely finished the song when the real Stevie Wonder showed up and sang his hit Signed, Sealed, Delivered. The festivity was just beginning as the song segued into a happy birthday celebration for judge, Steven Tyler, complete with cake, candles and presents.
Pia, Lauren and Scotty were the first of the night to learn that they are safely coming back next week.
Country duo Sugarland then took the stage to perform their latest crossover hit, Stuck Like Glue.
After seeing a fun clip of the finalists goofing around the house trying their best pro wrestling moves on each other, the two biggest wrestling fans, James and Paul, were called out center stage to hear that they were safe from none other than Wrestling superstar, Hulk Hogan. Jacob, Naima and Haley just got to hear the news of their safety the old fashioned boring way by having Ryan tell them.
Season 3 Miss American Idol finalist, Grammy winner and Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson then graced the stage with a fantastic live performance of her new single, Where You At. She looked wonderful and her vocals were flawless and powerful.
With everyone else being safe, that left the bottom three to be Thia, Stefano and Casey. After Thia and Stefano were both informed that they were safe, Casey was given his final chance to sing for his life. And that could have been it - America voted and decided that they don't want to hear his screaming every week, but the judges weren't satisfied with that. They actually used their one and only SAVE of the season on Casey.
So all 11 finalists are coming back next week. As for my predictions, I am very happy to report that I correctly guessed that Casey would be in the bottom three, but that was the only one I got right. I am amazed that people are voting for Haley and that she is still in this competition.
Pia, Lauren and Scotty were the first of the night to learn that they are safely coming back next week.
Country duo Sugarland then took the stage to perform their latest crossover hit, Stuck Like Glue.
After seeing a fun clip of the finalists goofing around the house trying their best pro wrestling moves on each other, the two biggest wrestling fans, James and Paul, were called out center stage to hear that they were safe from none other than Wrestling superstar, Hulk Hogan. Jacob, Naima and Haley just got to hear the news of their safety the old fashioned boring way by having Ryan tell them.
Season 3 Miss American Idol finalist, Grammy winner and Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson then graced the stage with a fantastic live performance of her new single, Where You At. She looked wonderful and her vocals were flawless and powerful.
With everyone else being safe, that left the bottom three to be Thia, Stefano and Casey. After Thia and Stefano were both informed that they were safe, Casey was given his final chance to sing for his life. And that could have been it - America voted and decided that they don't want to hear his screaming every week, but the judges weren't satisfied with that. They actually used their one and only SAVE of the season on Casey.
So all 11 finalists are coming back next week. As for my predictions, I am very happy to report that I correctly guessed that Casey would be in the bottom three, but that was the only one I got right. I am amazed that people are voting for Haley and that she is still in this competition.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
The Top 11 Sing Motown
Tonight the top 11 finalists made a selection from the legendary Motown catalog:
I Heard It Through The Grape Vine was a huge hit twice for Motown. Gladys Knight and The Pips took it to #2 in 1967 and then Marvin Gaye took it to #1 for 7 weeks in 1968. It's a fantastic song that Casey Abrams simply screamed his way through adding nothing likeable or refreshing.
Heat Wave was also a smash hit two times. Martha and the Vandellas took it to #4 in 1963 and Linda Ronstadt hit #5 with it in 1975. Thia Megia has a sweet, pure and melodic voice that made this song sound fun and fresh. She's young and dynamic and each week we see more of her potential realized.
You're All I Need To Get By was a hit in the Billboard HOT 100 four times! The classic version is by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell that hit #7 in 1968. Thank goodness Jacob Lusk had some good back-up singers on stage with him to make his version listenable.
You Keep Me Hanging On is one of those rare songs that actually hit #1 on the Billboard HOT 100 by two different artists. First by Diana Ross and the Supremes in 1966 and then again by Kim Wilde in 1987. The judges have been raving about Lauren Alaina since they first saw her, and tonight she actually provided something worthy of praise.
Hello was a #1 hit for Lionel Richie for 2 weeks in 1984. Stefano Langone used this simple ballad to showcase his fantastic voice and to connect perfectly with the audience.
You Really Got A Hold On Me peaked at #8 in 1963 for the Miracles. Haley Reinhart completely butchered this lively tune with her choppy vocals and a clunky arrangement.
For Once In My Life hit #2 in 1968 for Stevie Wonder. Scotty McCreery did a wonderful job transforming this song into a meaningful classic country story song. The substance of the lyrics truly came through combined with his rugged deep voice.
All In Love Is Fair is a track from Stevie Wonder's 1973 Grammy winning Album of the Year, Innervisions. Pia Toscano completely owned this song and wrapped her outstanding vocals all over it. Fantastic!
Tracks of My Tears was a hit on the Billboard HOT 100 three times including the original 1965 version by the Miracles. Paul McDonald took his guitar in had and re-worked this into an easy going folk-rock ballad.
Dancing In The Streets is yet another Motown classic to hit the Billboard chart three times from acts as diverse as Martha and the Vendellas, van Halen, Mick Jagger and David Bowie. Naima Adedapo added her own unique diversity to her funtabulous performance with an African inspired, bongo infused dance break mixed in with her great vocals.
Living For The City was a #8 smash for Stevie Wonder in 1973. James Durbin showed off his energetic stage presence as he completely worked every member of the audience with his amazing vocals. Outstanding.
It was a great night of musical entertainment. Fans are picking their favorites and casting their votes so you voice to keep your choice safe. My prediction for the bottom three goes completely against the mis-guided gushing from the judges: Casey Abrams, Haley Reinhart and Jacob Lusk will get the lowest number of votes with Haley finally getting sent home.
I Heard It Through The Grape Vine was a huge hit twice for Motown. Gladys Knight and The Pips took it to #2 in 1967 and then Marvin Gaye took it to #1 for 7 weeks in 1968. It's a fantastic song that Casey Abrams simply screamed his way through adding nothing likeable or refreshing.
Heat Wave was also a smash hit two times. Martha and the Vandellas took it to #4 in 1963 and Linda Ronstadt hit #5 with it in 1975. Thia Megia has a sweet, pure and melodic voice that made this song sound fun and fresh. She's young and dynamic and each week we see more of her potential realized.
You're All I Need To Get By was a hit in the Billboard HOT 100 four times! The classic version is by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell that hit #7 in 1968. Thank goodness Jacob Lusk had some good back-up singers on stage with him to make his version listenable.
You Keep Me Hanging On is one of those rare songs that actually hit #1 on the Billboard HOT 100 by two different artists. First by Diana Ross and the Supremes in 1966 and then again by Kim Wilde in 1987. The judges have been raving about Lauren Alaina since they first saw her, and tonight she actually provided something worthy of praise.
Hello was a #1 hit for Lionel Richie for 2 weeks in 1984. Stefano Langone used this simple ballad to showcase his fantastic voice and to connect perfectly with the audience.
You Really Got A Hold On Me peaked at #8 in 1963 for the Miracles. Haley Reinhart completely butchered this lively tune with her choppy vocals and a clunky arrangement.
For Once In My Life hit #2 in 1968 for Stevie Wonder. Scotty McCreery did a wonderful job transforming this song into a meaningful classic country story song. The substance of the lyrics truly came through combined with his rugged deep voice.
All In Love Is Fair is a track from Stevie Wonder's 1973 Grammy winning Album of the Year, Innervisions. Pia Toscano completely owned this song and wrapped her outstanding vocals all over it. Fantastic!
Tracks of My Tears was a hit on the Billboard HOT 100 three times including the original 1965 version by the Miracles. Paul McDonald took his guitar in had and re-worked this into an easy going folk-rock ballad.
Dancing In The Streets is yet another Motown classic to hit the Billboard chart three times from acts as diverse as Martha and the Vendellas, van Halen, Mick Jagger and David Bowie. Naima Adedapo added her own unique diversity to her funtabulous performance with an African inspired, bongo infused dance break mixed in with her great vocals.
Living For The City was a #8 smash for Stevie Wonder in 1973. James Durbin showed off his energetic stage presence as he completely worked every member of the audience with his amazing vocals. Outstanding.
It was a great night of musical entertainment. Fans are picking their favorites and casting their votes so you voice to keep your choice safe. My prediction for the bottom three goes completely against the mis-guided gushing from the judges: Casey Abrams, Haley Reinhart and Jacob Lusk will get the lowest number of votes with Haley finally getting sent home.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
The Top 13 sing their IDOLS
Tonight the top 13 finalists had the chance to perform a selection from the catalog of their personal idol:
Lauren Alaina selected a song from the platinum selling superstar Shania Twain, Any Man of Mine. If Lauren gets far in this competition, she will be coasting on her sweet girl-next-door personality. The judges claim she has an amazing voice, but this performance was very low key and bland. She caps it off with a perky smile and wink and hopes that the fans are falling for it.
Casey Abrams selected the song we all grew to know and love as the theme song from The Wonder Years, Joe Cocker's version of With A Little Help From My Friends. He opened the song with a soft voice that we haven't heard from him before but it didn't last long enough. Next thing you know he's just screaming. Unfortunately, it was devoid of the emotional impact that the Wonder Years theme served up every week. There's no reason to listen to Casey's voice sing this when he's not live on stage.
Ashthon Jones selected the Diana Ross ballad When You Tell Me That You Love Me. She once again embodied the true diva essence standing center stage in an elegant silver gown. Her vocals were strong and confident and maybe, even better than the original.
Paul McDonald selected Come Pick Me Up from Ryan Adams. This guy is all smiles and cute moves in skinny jeans, so what he lacks in vocal power he makes up for with interesting presence. This song was a pretty weak choice to win over new fans, but he can definitely coast on the good looks.
Pia Toscano selected All By Myself by Celine Dion that hit #4 in 1997. She looked stunning in a sparkly little gold mini and the huge vocals that resonated from her were even more stunning. Pia is a genuinely talented singer who is sure to impress us more and more each week.
James Durbin selected Maybe I'm Amazed by Paul McCartney that hit #10 in 1977. James showed his ability to be more than a heavy metal screamer with his powerful vocal range on this wonderful love song. It was controlled and embodied all the depth necessary to make us feel the lyrics as they were intended to be.
Haley Reinhart selected Blue, the debut song that lead to Leann Rimes winning the Grammy for Best New Artist in 1996. I am surprised to admit that Haley managed to do this great song justice. It allowed her to show some range that we didn't know was there from the deep growl to the country yodel.
Jacob Lusk selected R. Kelly's I Believe I Can Fly that hit #2 in 1996. I don't believe I can listen to Jacob over-sing another song in this competition. He just gave us more of the same indulgent wailing that completely lacked attention to genuine emotion and melody. If only the backing choir that joined him on stage sang louder so they would have drowned him out it would have been listenable.
Thia Megia selected Smile that Michael Jackson recorded on his 1995 release History. She performed this classic with crystal clear, pure vocals that conveyed a maturity far beyond her years while also being fun, fresh and youthful. Thia mixed things up with an interesting funky arrangement that exemplifies her ability to be the best of the old and the new.
Stefano Langone selected Stevie Wonder's Lately that Jodeci took to #4 in 1993. He has everything that we want to hear on the radio right now. Stefano took this ballad and elevated it into a disco dance floor throw down anthem. His vocals were perfectly strong to convincingly pull off this dynamic transformation.
Karen Rodriguez selected I Could Fall In Love that Selena to to #15 in 1995. It was clear that something wasn't quite right with Karen as she attempted to perform this song from her idol. The vocals weren't quite at the level that we have come to expect from her, so hopefully she will get another chance to prove herself.
Scotty McCreery selected The River by Garth Brooks. Everyone knows that I am a fan of Country Music and I acknowledge that Scotty has a good voice. But the fact is that he is not bringing anything exceptional to the table. He's just a kid with a deep voice getting a chance to sing some of his favorite songs on TV.
Naima Adedapo selected a song that spent 7 weeks at #1 in 2007 for Rihanna, Umbrella. The best was saved for last. Naima has an exhilarating star quality how she showed off her strong vocals with her fantastic stage presence dancing on the stage. She also mixed it up with a reggae dance break showing that she can do it all.
I am so happy to report that there were many VERY good performances tonight from some very talented finalists. The best being Thia Megia, Pia Toscano, James Durbin, Naima Adedapo and Stefano Langone.
My prediction for the bottom three vote getters is Haley Reinhart, Karen Rodriguez and Ashthon Jones. These girls are all pretty good, but it's gonna be hard to stand out in this group. I think Haley will be going home.
Lauren Alaina selected a song from the platinum selling superstar Shania Twain, Any Man of Mine. If Lauren gets far in this competition, she will be coasting on her sweet girl-next-door personality. The judges claim she has an amazing voice, but this performance was very low key and bland. She caps it off with a perky smile and wink and hopes that the fans are falling for it.
Casey Abrams selected the song we all grew to know and love as the theme song from The Wonder Years, Joe Cocker's version of With A Little Help From My Friends. He opened the song with a soft voice that we haven't heard from him before but it didn't last long enough. Next thing you know he's just screaming. Unfortunately, it was devoid of the emotional impact that the Wonder Years theme served up every week. There's no reason to listen to Casey's voice sing this when he's not live on stage.
Ashthon Jones selected the Diana Ross ballad When You Tell Me That You Love Me. She once again embodied the true diva essence standing center stage in an elegant silver gown. Her vocals were strong and confident and maybe, even better than the original.
Paul McDonald selected Come Pick Me Up from Ryan Adams. This guy is all smiles and cute moves in skinny jeans, so what he lacks in vocal power he makes up for with interesting presence. This song was a pretty weak choice to win over new fans, but he can definitely coast on the good looks.
Pia Toscano selected All By Myself by Celine Dion that hit #4 in 1997. She looked stunning in a sparkly little gold mini and the huge vocals that resonated from her were even more stunning. Pia is a genuinely talented singer who is sure to impress us more and more each week.
James Durbin selected Maybe I'm Amazed by Paul McCartney that hit #10 in 1977. James showed his ability to be more than a heavy metal screamer with his powerful vocal range on this wonderful love song. It was controlled and embodied all the depth necessary to make us feel the lyrics as they were intended to be.
Haley Reinhart selected Blue, the debut song that lead to Leann Rimes winning the Grammy for Best New Artist in 1996. I am surprised to admit that Haley managed to do this great song justice. It allowed her to show some range that we didn't know was there from the deep growl to the country yodel.
Jacob Lusk selected R. Kelly's I Believe I Can Fly that hit #2 in 1996. I don't believe I can listen to Jacob over-sing another song in this competition. He just gave us more of the same indulgent wailing that completely lacked attention to genuine emotion and melody. If only the backing choir that joined him on stage sang louder so they would have drowned him out it would have been listenable.
Thia Megia selected Smile that Michael Jackson recorded on his 1995 release History. She performed this classic with crystal clear, pure vocals that conveyed a maturity far beyond her years while also being fun, fresh and youthful. Thia mixed things up with an interesting funky arrangement that exemplifies her ability to be the best of the old and the new.
Stefano Langone selected Stevie Wonder's Lately that Jodeci took to #4 in 1993. He has everything that we want to hear on the radio right now. Stefano took this ballad and elevated it into a disco dance floor throw down anthem. His vocals were perfectly strong to convincingly pull off this dynamic transformation.
Karen Rodriguez selected I Could Fall In Love that Selena to to #15 in 1995. It was clear that something wasn't quite right with Karen as she attempted to perform this song from her idol. The vocals weren't quite at the level that we have come to expect from her, so hopefully she will get another chance to prove herself.
Scotty McCreery selected The River by Garth Brooks. Everyone knows that I am a fan of Country Music and I acknowledge that Scotty has a good voice. But the fact is that he is not bringing anything exceptional to the table. He's just a kid with a deep voice getting a chance to sing some of his favorite songs on TV.
Naima Adedapo selected a song that spent 7 weeks at #1 in 2007 for Rihanna, Umbrella. The best was saved for last. Naima has an exhilarating star quality how she showed off her strong vocals with her fantastic stage presence dancing on the stage. She also mixed it up with a reggae dance break showing that she can do it all.
I am so happy to report that there were many VERY good performances tonight from some very talented finalists. The best being Thia Megia, Pia Toscano, James Durbin, Naima Adedapo and Stefano Langone.
My prediction for the bottom three vote getters is Haley Reinhart, Karen Rodriguez and Ashthon Jones. These girls are all pretty good, but it's gonna be hard to stand out in this group. I think Haley will be going home.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
The Top 12 boys take their first shot...
Tonight we get to know what these top 12 boys can really do - they can pick any song they want to present themselves to America for the first time:
Stevie Wonder took Superstition to #1 in 1972. Clint Jun Gamboa used this funky jam to belt out some big notes. He did a pretty good job, but not sure if it will be enough to win over votes after he turned off the fans during the group portion of the Hollywood round. He just doesn't seem like a very nice guy.
Edwin McCain took I'll Be to #5 in 1998. Jovany Barreto thoroughly and completely impressed with vocals that were pure and powerful. Combined with his stunning good looks he elevated this song to higher heights with an amazing crescendo at the end of the song that was a million times better than the original.
Usher took OMG to #1 in 2010. Jordan Dorsey missed the mark with his awkward efforts at dancing and this song choice did not showcase any interesting vocals at all.
Tim Halperin doesn't have a chance based on this performance of Rob Thomas' Come On Over. It was clunky and vocally choppy. This didn't inspire any interest.
The Doors took Light My Fire to #1 for three weeks in 1967. Brett Loewenstern has that skinny rock star thing going for him along with a dynamic and bold vocal range. His youth comes through, though, with the lack of maturity and intensity that this song requires.
Judas Priest became classic heavy metal rockers with songs like You've Got Another Thing Coming. James Durbin tried to set himself apart from the original glam-rock standard set by the Season 8 Miss American Idol 1st Runner-Up, Adam Lambert. While he's very talented vocally, James does not do Judas Priest better than Adam could.
Sarah McLachlan took Angel to #4 in 1999. Robbie Rosen's rendition of this sweet ballad was painful to listen to. His voice is very plain and lacking any personality and his huge smile didn't help at all to convey the appropriate emotions for the lyrics.
John Michael Montgomery took Letters From Home to #24 in 2004. Scotty McCreery is up there doing an imitation of what other singers have already done better. He's a talented deep-voiced country boy, but he doesn't really add anything new to the mix.
Bruno Mars took Just The Way You Are to #1 in 2010. Stefano Langone has a sweet and smooth tenor voice that fits into what is happening in pop music right now. In addition, he's very young and cute and ready for music videos.
Rod Stewart took Maggie May to #1 for five weeks in 1971. Paul McDonald recreated this classic tale of love into a quirky slice of hipster delight. He has a warm personality that pulls you in and keeps you engaged.
Luther Vandross gave the world a legendary version of A House is Not A Home. Jacob Lusk was clearly trying very hard to over-sing his way into our hearts, but it was all a lot of loud screaming effort without the emotional pay-off.
Casey Abrams puts on a great show when he closes his eyes tightly and screams at the top of his lungs. It looks impressive on stage, but it is very reminiscent of what made Taylor Hicks the Season 5 Miss American Idol winner. The fans loved him on stage, but they didn't buy his albums.
Now it's up to America to vote and for the first time you can go online to support your favorites at http://www.americanidol.com/.
My top 5 will be: Jovany Barreto, Brett Loewenstern, James Durbin, Stefano Langone, and Paul McDonald.
And Jovany is my early favorite. :)
Stevie Wonder took Superstition to #1 in 1972. Clint Jun Gamboa used this funky jam to belt out some big notes. He did a pretty good job, but not sure if it will be enough to win over votes after he turned off the fans during the group portion of the Hollywood round. He just doesn't seem like a very nice guy.
Edwin McCain took I'll Be to #5 in 1998. Jovany Barreto thoroughly and completely impressed with vocals that were pure and powerful. Combined with his stunning good looks he elevated this song to higher heights with an amazing crescendo at the end of the song that was a million times better than the original.
Usher took OMG to #1 in 2010. Jordan Dorsey missed the mark with his awkward efforts at dancing and this song choice did not showcase any interesting vocals at all.
Tim Halperin doesn't have a chance based on this performance of Rob Thomas' Come On Over. It was clunky and vocally choppy. This didn't inspire any interest.
The Doors took Light My Fire to #1 for three weeks in 1967. Brett Loewenstern has that skinny rock star thing going for him along with a dynamic and bold vocal range. His youth comes through, though, with the lack of maturity and intensity that this song requires.
Judas Priest became classic heavy metal rockers with songs like You've Got Another Thing Coming. James Durbin tried to set himself apart from the original glam-rock standard set by the Season 8 Miss American Idol 1st Runner-Up, Adam Lambert. While he's very talented vocally, James does not do Judas Priest better than Adam could.
Sarah McLachlan took Angel to #4 in 1999. Robbie Rosen's rendition of this sweet ballad was painful to listen to. His voice is very plain and lacking any personality and his huge smile didn't help at all to convey the appropriate emotions for the lyrics.
John Michael Montgomery took Letters From Home to #24 in 2004. Scotty McCreery is up there doing an imitation of what other singers have already done better. He's a talented deep-voiced country boy, but he doesn't really add anything new to the mix.
Bruno Mars took Just The Way You Are to #1 in 2010. Stefano Langone has a sweet and smooth tenor voice that fits into what is happening in pop music right now. In addition, he's very young and cute and ready for music videos.
Rod Stewart took Maggie May to #1 for five weeks in 1971. Paul McDonald recreated this classic tale of love into a quirky slice of hipster delight. He has a warm personality that pulls you in and keeps you engaged.
Luther Vandross gave the world a legendary version of A House is Not A Home. Jacob Lusk was clearly trying very hard to over-sing his way into our hearts, but it was all a lot of loud screaming effort without the emotional pay-off.
Casey Abrams puts on a great show when he closes his eyes tightly and screams at the top of his lungs. It looks impressive on stage, but it is very reminiscent of what made Taylor Hicks the Season 5 Miss American Idol winner. The fans loved him on stage, but they didn't buy his albums.
Now it's up to America to vote and for the first time you can go online to support your favorites at http://www.americanidol.com/.
My top 5 will be: Jovany Barreto, Brett Loewenstern, James Durbin, Stefano Langone, and Paul McDonald.
And Jovany is my early favorite. :)
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
The Top 11 sing #1 Hits
The finalists had the chance to select any song that hit #1 on the Billboard HOT 100. They got a little bit of guidance this week from a 17 singer who has never had a #1 hit of her own, Miley Cyrus.
The Box Tops spent four weeks at #1 with The Letter in 1967 and Lee Dewyze did not do himself a favor by trying to sing this song that should have been much more fun. His tired old rock guy raspy voice just sounded like strained screaming and he had no personality up on stage.
Phil Collins spent three weeks at #1 with Against All Odds in 1984 and Paige Miles could not fall back on the excuse of having a sore throat tonight. The vocal performance she served up was weak from beginning to end. She did not take advantage of any opportunity to belt out the big notes at all.
Queen spent spent four weeks at #1 with Crazy Little Thing Called Love in 1980 and Tim Urban even slid across the stage to prove that he can get hip enough for what this song demands. The fact is that it just wasn't enough. Even with all of his attempts at stage theatrics it was still flat and boring.
Aerosmith hit #1 in 1998 with I Don't Want To Miss A Thing and Aaron Kelly brought his diminutive little self on to the stage to sing this big power ballad. He's not a very dynamic performer or vocalist but he's a nice kid....
Janis Joplin spent two weeks at #1 with Me And Bobby McGee in 1971 and let's be thankful that Crystal Bowersox got this song out of the way early in the competition. She is immediately compared to Janis and now she can put this behind her and start to really be herself.
When A Man Loves A Woman is one of the few songs that has hit #1 by two different artists: for one week by Michael Bolton in 1991 and for two weeks by Percy Sledge in 1966. Michael Lynche put in a great effort to make a hit of this song again. He showed off a very impressive vocal range and coupled that with his nice guy sincerity.
Marvin Gaye spent seven weeks at #1 with I Heard It Through The Grapevine in 1968 and Andrew Garcia hoped to liven up his image with this popular favorite. He failed miserably. His vocals are totally bland and his stage presence is embarrassingly awkward.
Fergie spent one week at #1 with Big Girls Don't Cry in 2007 and Katie Stevens made a great choice in selecting this big ballad. It was right all around in that it showed off her vocal range and it was more fresh and current.
Huey Lewis and The News spent two weeks at #1 with The Power of Love in 1985 and Casey James rocked the audience back to the past along with his bright smile and electric guitar. He's good all around - good looking, good vocals, good guitar playing. There's just nothing extra super great about his performances.
Linda Ronstadt spent one week at #1 with You're No Good in 1975 and Didi Benami tried to jazz things up a bit with her rendition. She tried to make it bigger than the original, but it took her vocals a little out of her range. While the overall performance was pretty fun, it didn't show her at her best.
Stevie Wonder spent one week at #1 with Superstition in 1972 and Siobhan Magnus brought her nerdy girl with an edge persona to this classic jam. What's special about this finalist is that she really pushes herself closer to the edge than anyone else in the competition taking risks both vocally and with her stylish look.
My prediction for the bottom three this week is Paige Miles, Tim Urban and Andrew Garcia. While it would be nice to finally stop Andrew from making a fool of himself, I think he will be coming back next week while Paige end up being the lowest vote getter.
The Box Tops spent four weeks at #1 with The Letter in 1967 and Lee Dewyze did not do himself a favor by trying to sing this song that should have been much more fun. His tired old rock guy raspy voice just sounded like strained screaming and he had no personality up on stage.
Phil Collins spent three weeks at #1 with Against All Odds in 1984 and Paige Miles could not fall back on the excuse of having a sore throat tonight. The vocal performance she served up was weak from beginning to end. She did not take advantage of any opportunity to belt out the big notes at all.
Queen spent spent four weeks at #1 with Crazy Little Thing Called Love in 1980 and Tim Urban even slid across the stage to prove that he can get hip enough for what this song demands. The fact is that it just wasn't enough. Even with all of his attempts at stage theatrics it was still flat and boring.
Aerosmith hit #1 in 1998 with I Don't Want To Miss A Thing and Aaron Kelly brought his diminutive little self on to the stage to sing this big power ballad. He's not a very dynamic performer or vocalist but he's a nice kid....
Janis Joplin spent two weeks at #1 with Me And Bobby McGee in 1971 and let's be thankful that Crystal Bowersox got this song out of the way early in the competition. She is immediately compared to Janis and now she can put this behind her and start to really be herself.
When A Man Loves A Woman is one of the few songs that has hit #1 by two different artists: for one week by Michael Bolton in 1991 and for two weeks by Percy Sledge in 1966. Michael Lynche put in a great effort to make a hit of this song again. He showed off a very impressive vocal range and coupled that with his nice guy sincerity.
Marvin Gaye spent seven weeks at #1 with I Heard It Through The Grapevine in 1968 and Andrew Garcia hoped to liven up his image with this popular favorite. He failed miserably. His vocals are totally bland and his stage presence is embarrassingly awkward.
Fergie spent one week at #1 with Big Girls Don't Cry in 2007 and Katie Stevens made a great choice in selecting this big ballad. It was right all around in that it showed off her vocal range and it was more fresh and current.
Huey Lewis and The News spent two weeks at #1 with The Power of Love in 1985 and Casey James rocked the audience back to the past along with his bright smile and electric guitar. He's good all around - good looking, good vocals, good guitar playing. There's just nothing extra super great about his performances.
Linda Ronstadt spent one week at #1 with You're No Good in 1975 and Didi Benami tried to jazz things up a bit with her rendition. She tried to make it bigger than the original, but it took her vocals a little out of her range. While the overall performance was pretty fun, it didn't show her at her best.
Stevie Wonder spent one week at #1 with Superstition in 1972 and Siobhan Magnus brought her nerdy girl with an edge persona to this classic jam. What's special about this finalist is that she really pushes herself closer to the edge than anyone else in the competition taking risks both vocally and with her stylish look.
My prediction for the bottom three this week is Paige Miles, Tim Urban and Andrew Garcia. While it would be nice to finally stop Andrew from making a fool of himself, I think he will be coming back next week while Paige end up being the lowest vote getter.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
The Top 8 sing their Beginnings
The finalists will all sing a song from the year they were born:
Danny Gokey is 28 years old and was born in 1980. Country singer Mickey Gilley became famous when his nightclub, Gilley's, was featured in the movie Urban Cowboy. His version of Stand By Me, which was also in the movie peaked at #22 in 1980. Danny did his best with his limited vocals to make an impression. The best I can say is that he didn't scream the whole song like he usually does.
Kris Allen is 23 years old and was born in 1985. Don Henley continued his solo success from the Eagles in 1985 when he peaked at #9 with All She Wants To Do Is Dance. Don Henley's version was always kinda bland even though it's a song about dancing. Kris did a great job mixing things up and making the song so much more vibrant and energetic than it ever was before. Combine the jazzy horns with his handsome face and smooth vocals and we are left with a great performance.
Lil Rounds is 24 years old and was born in 1984. Tina Turner enjoyed one of the best comebacks of all time when she won the Grammy for Record of the Year and spent three weeks at #1 with What's Love Got To Do With It in 1984. Lil has once again demonstrated that she has a wonderful voice and that she can sing anything exceptionally. But at the same time while proving herself as a gifted musical chameleon, she is missing out on her remaining chances to step away from the crowd as a unique artist. Still one of the best in the competition, though.
Anoop Desai is 22 years old and was born in 1986. Cyndi Lauper spent two weeks at #1 in 1986 with True Colors. Anoop Desai has been struggling every week to decide what his true colors are. Sometimes he's a complete hot mess trying to be an uptempo soul singer, but he's usually better when he does a simple ballad. But when he does a simple ballad, like he did tonight, he is so boring he puts everyone to sleep. He has yet to learn how to do a ballad with any style or personality.
Scott MacIntyre is 23 years old and was born in 1985. When I was in high school concert choir I was required to take voice lessons and perform a solo for the rest of the choir. The song I chose was the #4 smash by Survivor, The Search Is Over. Scott stepped away from his piano, picked up his electric guitar and did this song a million times better than I did. This different setting exposed some vocal limitations but nothing can take away this young man's genuine sincerity he brings to everything he does.
Allison Iraheta is 16 years old and was born in 1992. Bonnie Raitt took I Can't Make You Love Me to #18 in 1992. While Allison is the youngest finalist in the competition she was able to take this very mature song and be completely convincing. Ignore the pink hair and the youthful fashion sense so that you're not distracted from the great voice that lies beneath.
Matt Giraud is 23 years old and was born in 1985. Stevie Wonder continued his decades long hit making streak when he hit #1 for one week in 1985 with Part Time Lover. Matt took this fun and bouncy dance jam and completely sucked the life out of it. His vocals were totally generic and the beat felt slow and cumbersome.
Adam Lambert is 27 years old and was born in 1982. Before Tears For Fears became chart topping hit makers in 1985, they were a totally cool alternative band that released a song called Mad World in 1982. Adam Lambert took this new wave synth pop song and performed it as a haunting ballad with his flawless silky tenor voice. He needed nothing but a spotlight on him and he commanded the stage with a completely showstopping rendition.
Adam has very clearly stepped WAY ahead of the others as the only stand out finalist and he is the clear and obvious front runner. He is the only one who is completely safe and on a clear path to the finals. All of the others are at risk of ending up in the bottom three. As I have stated in previous weeks, I don't really expect to get any of my predictions right any more. The ones who are falling completely flat to me are getting high praise from the judges. It makes no sense to me. So going completely against the judges, I think the bottom three will be Matt Giraud, Anoop Desai and Danny Gokey. This should finally be the week that Anoop goes home.
Danny Gokey is 28 years old and was born in 1980. Country singer Mickey Gilley became famous when his nightclub, Gilley's, was featured in the movie Urban Cowboy. His version of Stand By Me, which was also in the movie peaked at #22 in 1980. Danny did his best with his limited vocals to make an impression. The best I can say is that he didn't scream the whole song like he usually does.
Kris Allen is 23 years old and was born in 1985. Don Henley continued his solo success from the Eagles in 1985 when he peaked at #9 with All She Wants To Do Is Dance. Don Henley's version was always kinda bland even though it's a song about dancing. Kris did a great job mixing things up and making the song so much more vibrant and energetic than it ever was before. Combine the jazzy horns with his handsome face and smooth vocals and we are left with a great performance.
Lil Rounds is 24 years old and was born in 1984. Tina Turner enjoyed one of the best comebacks of all time when she won the Grammy for Record of the Year and spent three weeks at #1 with What's Love Got To Do With It in 1984. Lil has once again demonstrated that she has a wonderful voice and that she can sing anything exceptionally. But at the same time while proving herself as a gifted musical chameleon, she is missing out on her remaining chances to step away from the crowd as a unique artist. Still one of the best in the competition, though.
Anoop Desai is 22 years old and was born in 1986. Cyndi Lauper spent two weeks at #1 in 1986 with True Colors. Anoop Desai has been struggling every week to decide what his true colors are. Sometimes he's a complete hot mess trying to be an uptempo soul singer, but he's usually better when he does a simple ballad. But when he does a simple ballad, like he did tonight, he is so boring he puts everyone to sleep. He has yet to learn how to do a ballad with any style or personality.
Scott MacIntyre is 23 years old and was born in 1985. When I was in high school concert choir I was required to take voice lessons and perform a solo for the rest of the choir. The song I chose was the #4 smash by Survivor, The Search Is Over. Scott stepped away from his piano, picked up his electric guitar and did this song a million times better than I did. This different setting exposed some vocal limitations but nothing can take away this young man's genuine sincerity he brings to everything he does.
Allison Iraheta is 16 years old and was born in 1992. Bonnie Raitt took I Can't Make You Love Me to #18 in 1992. While Allison is the youngest finalist in the competition she was able to take this very mature song and be completely convincing. Ignore the pink hair and the youthful fashion sense so that you're not distracted from the great voice that lies beneath.
Matt Giraud is 23 years old and was born in 1985. Stevie Wonder continued his decades long hit making streak when he hit #1 for one week in 1985 with Part Time Lover. Matt took this fun and bouncy dance jam and completely sucked the life out of it. His vocals were totally generic and the beat felt slow and cumbersome.
Adam Lambert is 27 years old and was born in 1982. Before Tears For Fears became chart topping hit makers in 1985, they were a totally cool alternative band that released a song called Mad World in 1982. Adam Lambert took this new wave synth pop song and performed it as a haunting ballad with his flawless silky tenor voice. He needed nothing but a spotlight on him and he commanded the stage with a completely showstopping rendition.
Adam has very clearly stepped WAY ahead of the others as the only stand out finalist and he is the clear and obvious front runner. He is the only one who is completely safe and on a clear path to the finals. All of the others are at risk of ending up in the bottom three. As I have stated in previous weeks, I don't really expect to get any of my predictions right any more. The ones who are falling completely flat to me are getting high praise from the judges. It makes no sense to me. So going completely against the judges, I think the bottom three will be Matt Giraud, Anoop Desai and Danny Gokey. This should finally be the week that Anoop goes home.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
The Results - Motown
For the second week in a row, Season One Miss American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson's new album, All I Ever Wanted, is the best selling album of the week and at #1 on the Billboard 200 albums chart. Meanwhile, the Supreme Miss American, Season Four winner Carrie Underwood, leaps into the top 10 this week at #9 with the duet she performed on the show last week with Randy Travis, I Told You So.
The Top 10 finalists opened the show with a medley of Motown hits. Basically, the rest of the finalists served as background singers for Lil Rounds and Adam Lambert who did a great job as usual.
Hoping to enjoy the same "American Idol Bump" as Kelly and Carrie, Season Two Miss American Idol winner, Ruben Studdard came out of hiding to perform his new single. He's still that same very talented velvet teddy bear that we remember, it's that he's struggling to find that perfect catchy song that can bring him back to the charts. This was OK. We'll have to wait and see if this is the bump that he's looking for....
Adam Lambert is safe, but Matt Giraud learned that he is the first person in the bottom three. Kris Allen and Lil Rounds are safe and Michael Sarver had to join Matt in the bottom three.
Not only has Smokey Robinson written 4000 songs and charted 38 songs on the Billboard HOT 100, but he's also had a huge hit song written about him! British pop group, ABC, took When Smokey Sings to the top 5 in 1987. Smokey's voice is smooth and silky and he showed off that he's still got it on a duet with Joss Stone tonight on the American Idol stage.
Allison Iraheta, Anoop Desai, Danny Gokey and Megan Joy are all safe leaving the wonderful Scott MacIntyre to round out the bottom three. Thankfully Scott did not need to join Michael and Matt for long as he was quickly sent back to safety.
Another Motown legend took the American Idol stage to sing a medley of his many hits. Stevie Wonder hit the Billboard HOT 100 46 times including ten #1 smash hit chart toppers. He included My Cherie Amour, Superstition and Overjoyed in this entertaining musical revue.
Ryan then revealed that Matt Giraud is safe leaving Michael Sarver to sing for his life. He did is best to show that he ain't to proud to beg for the love of the judges, but it didn't work - he's going home.
This week I only got one of my three predictions correct, but it was the one who is being sent home. I'm not surprised that Matt's embarrassing showing last night landed him in the bottom three, but it makes no sense at all that Scott was there. I'll just have to call in more for Scott next week!
The Top 10 finalists opened the show with a medley of Motown hits. Basically, the rest of the finalists served as background singers for Lil Rounds and Adam Lambert who did a great job as usual.
Hoping to enjoy the same "American Idol Bump" as Kelly and Carrie, Season Two Miss American Idol winner, Ruben Studdard came out of hiding to perform his new single. He's still that same very talented velvet teddy bear that we remember, it's that he's struggling to find that perfect catchy song that can bring him back to the charts. This was OK. We'll have to wait and see if this is the bump that he's looking for....
Adam Lambert is safe, but Matt Giraud learned that he is the first person in the bottom three. Kris Allen and Lil Rounds are safe and Michael Sarver had to join Matt in the bottom three.
Not only has Smokey Robinson written 4000 songs and charted 38 songs on the Billboard HOT 100, but he's also had a huge hit song written about him! British pop group, ABC, took When Smokey Sings to the top 5 in 1987. Smokey's voice is smooth and silky and he showed off that he's still got it on a duet with Joss Stone tonight on the American Idol stage.
Allison Iraheta, Anoop Desai, Danny Gokey and Megan Joy are all safe leaving the wonderful Scott MacIntyre to round out the bottom three. Thankfully Scott did not need to join Michael and Matt for long as he was quickly sent back to safety.
Another Motown legend took the American Idol stage to sing a medley of his many hits. Stevie Wonder hit the Billboard HOT 100 46 times including ten #1 smash hit chart toppers. He included My Cherie Amour, Superstition and Overjoyed in this entertaining musical revue.
Ryan then revealed that Matt Giraud is safe leaving Michael Sarver to sing for his life. He did is best to show that he ain't to proud to beg for the love of the judges, but it didn't work - he's going home.
This week I only got one of my three predictions correct, but it was the one who is being sent home. I'm not surprised that Matt's embarrassing showing last night landed him in the bottom three, but it makes no sense at all that Scott was there. I'll just have to call in more for Scott next week!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
The Top 10 sing Motown
To celebrate 50 years of the biggest hits of all time, the top 10 finalists made a trip to Hitsville USA where much of the Motown music catalog was recorded. They had the chance to meet Motown founder, Berry Gordy, and work with #1 hit maker Smokey Robinson.
In 1973 Marvin Gaye spent two weeks at #1 with Let's Get It On. Matt Giraud started out at the piano with his lackluster rendition of the song. After he stepped away from the piano he was completely overindulgent in his belief that he can can put more emphasis on shaking hands with the crowd than showing off that he can sing. His voice is bland and uninteresting and it was embarrassing when he got in the judges faces and sang directly to them.
In 1965 Marvin Gaye reached #6 with How Sweet It Is To Loved By You. Ten years later James Taylor did it one better by peaking at #5 with his cover. Kris Allen stood center stage with his guitar and did his best to make the song his own. His vocals are good, but still the best thing he has going for him is his looks. He's perfect for videos, but without the visual there's no reason to listen.
In 1966 Diana Ross and the Supremes spent two weeks at #1 with You Can't Hurry Love. Scott MacIntyre stayed true to himself and performed his rendition from the comfort of his piano. He added a new and different arrangement to this classic hit with some jazzy energy coupled with the background singers on stage with him. No matter what he does, Scott's genuine love of music and talent shines through and tonight was no exception.
In 1968 Stevie Wonder spent two weeks at #2 with For Once In My Life. Megan Joy (who has dropped her last name) also tried to bring some jazzy style to her rendition of the song. She definitely leaves her personal stamp on everything, but it isn't always something that keeps you coming back for more. This performance was all over the place and not in a good way.
In 1965 Smokey Robinson and the Miracles peaked at #16 with Ooo Baby Baby. Thirteen years later Linda Ronstadt bested that by hitting #7. Anoop Desai proved that he has the vocal ability to rise to the challenge and show he can tackle this extremely difficult song to bring to life. While he glided effortlessly into a smooth falsetto, he is still struggling to find some stage presence. He's either cartoonish or completely boring like he was tonight.
In 1966 The Tempations hit #13 with Ain't Too Proud To Beg. Michael Sarver took this over the top high energy song and successfully drained the life out of it. His dance moves were sorely lacking and his vocals were nothing to speak of. All he can do now is not be too proud to beg for votes.
In 1963 Martha Reeves and the Vandellas hit #4 with Heat Wave. Twelve years later Linda Ronstadt had to settle for peaking at #5. Lil Rounds has proven week after week that she has a wonderful voice. Tonight she got up there in a fabulous frock with flouncy fringe and honored the legendary Motown history with a sincere tribute. In doing so, she sacrificed the chance to elevate the song and make it her own. It could have been so much more, but it was still one of the best.
In 1965 Smokey Robinson and Miracles hit #16 with The Tracks of My Tears. Eleven years later Linda Ronstadt's cover version only hit #25. Adam Lambert rose all the way to the top of any and all charts with his exceptional version of this tender ballad. It was a subtle performance, yet electrifying at the same time. His vocal range simply shined through with this unique and tender arrangement. He's proving himself as a real star.
In 1966 The Temptations only hit #29 with Get Ready. You may be more familiar with the version by Rare Earth that hit #4 in 1970. Danny Gokey's version is one that was instantly forgettable. His amateurish screams coupled with his stumbling dance moves were only a few parts of this mess. If only he had spent the entire performance blending in with the back-up singers because that was the best part.
In 1972 The Temptations spent one week at #1 with Papa Was A Rolling Stone. Allison Iraheta came here tonight to show that she did not belong in the bottom three last week. She used her throaty voice to leave her mark on this dynamic song and it was pure entertainment. A great effort that should keep her safe for another week.
My prediction for the bottom three is picking up where I left off last week: Danny Gokey and Michael Sarver should take the first two positions. Are fans still jumping on the bandwagon for Danny? I hope not. The boys should be joined in the bottom three by Megan Joy. My prediction for the finalist who will be going home is Michael Sarver.
In 1973 Marvin Gaye spent two weeks at #1 with Let's Get It On. Matt Giraud started out at the piano with his lackluster rendition of the song. After he stepped away from the piano he was completely overindulgent in his belief that he can can put more emphasis on shaking hands with the crowd than showing off that he can sing. His voice is bland and uninteresting and it was embarrassing when he got in the judges faces and sang directly to them.
In 1965 Marvin Gaye reached #6 with How Sweet It Is To Loved By You. Ten years later James Taylor did it one better by peaking at #5 with his cover. Kris Allen stood center stage with his guitar and did his best to make the song his own. His vocals are good, but still the best thing he has going for him is his looks. He's perfect for videos, but without the visual there's no reason to listen.
In 1966 Diana Ross and the Supremes spent two weeks at #1 with You Can't Hurry Love. Scott MacIntyre stayed true to himself and performed his rendition from the comfort of his piano. He added a new and different arrangement to this classic hit with some jazzy energy coupled with the background singers on stage with him. No matter what he does, Scott's genuine love of music and talent shines through and tonight was no exception.
In 1968 Stevie Wonder spent two weeks at #2 with For Once In My Life. Megan Joy (who has dropped her last name) also tried to bring some jazzy style to her rendition of the song. She definitely leaves her personal stamp on everything, but it isn't always something that keeps you coming back for more. This performance was all over the place and not in a good way.
In 1965 Smokey Robinson and the Miracles peaked at #16 with Ooo Baby Baby. Thirteen years later Linda Ronstadt bested that by hitting #7. Anoop Desai proved that he has the vocal ability to rise to the challenge and show he can tackle this extremely difficult song to bring to life. While he glided effortlessly into a smooth falsetto, he is still struggling to find some stage presence. He's either cartoonish or completely boring like he was tonight.
In 1966 The Tempations hit #13 with Ain't Too Proud To Beg. Michael Sarver took this over the top high energy song and successfully drained the life out of it. His dance moves were sorely lacking and his vocals were nothing to speak of. All he can do now is not be too proud to beg for votes.
In 1963 Martha Reeves and the Vandellas hit #4 with Heat Wave. Twelve years later Linda Ronstadt had to settle for peaking at #5. Lil Rounds has proven week after week that she has a wonderful voice. Tonight she got up there in a fabulous frock with flouncy fringe and honored the legendary Motown history with a sincere tribute. In doing so, she sacrificed the chance to elevate the song and make it her own. It could have been so much more, but it was still one of the best.
In 1965 Smokey Robinson and Miracles hit #16 with The Tracks of My Tears. Eleven years later Linda Ronstadt's cover version only hit #25. Adam Lambert rose all the way to the top of any and all charts with his exceptional version of this tender ballad. It was a subtle performance, yet electrifying at the same time. His vocal range simply shined through with this unique and tender arrangement. He's proving himself as a real star.
In 1966 The Temptations only hit #29 with Get Ready. You may be more familiar with the version by Rare Earth that hit #4 in 1970. Danny Gokey's version is one that was instantly forgettable. His amateurish screams coupled with his stumbling dance moves were only a few parts of this mess. If only he had spent the entire performance blending in with the back-up singers because that was the best part.
In 1972 The Temptations spent one week at #1 with Papa Was A Rolling Stone. Allison Iraheta came here tonight to show that she did not belong in the bottom three last week. She used her throaty voice to leave her mark on this dynamic song and it was pure entertainment. A great effort that should keep her safe for another week.
My prediction for the bottom three is picking up where I left off last week: Danny Gokey and Michael Sarver should take the first two positions. Are fans still jumping on the bandwagon for Danny? I hope not. The boys should be joined in the bottom three by Megan Joy. My prediction for the finalist who will be going home is Michael Sarver.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
WILD CARD round!
This is the last chance make it or break it opportunity to make it to the TOP 12 of season 8. Here's what the lucky contenders did to try and impress the judges:
Jesse Langseth hoped that she would be hearing something good after singing the Chaka Khan top 5 hit from 1974, Tell Me Something Good. She has the personality and style to shine best when performing live on stage. Really, she would be best playing in a coffee shop or a dive bar. I don' t think the judges are going to think she's big enough for the American Idol stage.
Matt Giraud did his best to get the lovin of the judges with his rendition of the Jackson 5's Who's Lovin You. He worked it by trying to be a blue eyed soul crooner, but he lacked the energy to really breath any life into the performance. Ultimately, he lacks the impressive and effortless vocal range to really stand out.
Megan Joy Corkrey got up there and did her swivel hips moves while singing KT Tunstell's Black Horse and The Cherry Tree. It was a very good choice that illustrates her quirky image and shows more of what she will bring in weeks to come. She has a very good chance of making the cut.
Von Smith tried to rise to the occasion with the top 10 hit from 1976 by Elton John, Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word. It started out very slow and bland, but he saved it all for the end where he hit the big notes for the climactic finish. It's sad. So sad. It's a sad sad situation that this probably won't be enough to push him into the next round.
Jasmine Murray hoped that by singing the song that first introduced the world to #1 hitmaker and Grammy winner for Best New Artist, Christina Aguilera, the judges would see who she really is inside. It wasn't exactly the song that showcased her as a contemporary chart topper, but it clearly demonstrated that she has an impressive vocal range. She may be getting more chances to show off her stuff.
Ricky Braddy sang the song that Stevie Wonder took all the way to #1 in 1972, Superstition. It's clear that he has a good voice and he did his best to show that he has the stage presence and showmanship to go along with it. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like he has it all. It's not likely that he will be moving on.
You gotta wonder why Tatiana Del Toro decided to sing Whitney Houston's 1985 #1 hit Saving All My Love For You again. She just did it a few weeks ago, albeit pretty well, but it didn't impress the viewers to vote for her back then. While it was just as good this time around it's not likely to make the judges think she can do anything else in coming weeks.
Anoop Desai did his best to impress with the 1988 #1 hit by Bobby Brown, My Prerogative. While he also has a good voice along with a genuine and sincere personality, this song pointed out quite clearly how completely uncool he is. It was vocally bland and the showmanship was very unconvincing. This should be his last chance.
Overall, I don't think this group of lucky 8 finalists did what they had to do to make the best argument for a shot in the top 12.
Here's what the judges decided:
Jasmine Murray got the good news that she has made it into the top 12. Ricky Braddy will not. Megan Joy Corkrey will also be taking her place in the top 12 while Tatiana Del Toro once again did not make the cut. Jesse Langseth also did not. Neither did Von Smith. With just Matt Giraud and Anoop Desai remaining the very lucky twist was revealed that they have both made it into the TOP 13!!!
So here are the finalists who have made it to the next round of competition:
Scott MacIntyre
Adam Lambert
Lil Rounds
Danny Gokey
Jasmine Murray
Alexis Grace
Kris Allen
Jorge Nunez
Michael Sarver
Allison Iraheta
Matt Giraud
Megan Joy Corkrey
Anoop Desai
My prediction is that Scott MacIntyre, Lil Rounds and Adam Lambert are going to be headed all the way up to the top three and one of them will be crowned the Season 8 Miss American Idol!
Jesse Langseth hoped that she would be hearing something good after singing the Chaka Khan top 5 hit from 1974, Tell Me Something Good. She has the personality and style to shine best when performing live on stage. Really, she would be best playing in a coffee shop or a dive bar. I don' t think the judges are going to think she's big enough for the American Idol stage.
Matt Giraud did his best to get the lovin of the judges with his rendition of the Jackson 5's Who's Lovin You. He worked it by trying to be a blue eyed soul crooner, but he lacked the energy to really breath any life into the performance. Ultimately, he lacks the impressive and effortless vocal range to really stand out.
Megan Joy Corkrey got up there and did her swivel hips moves while singing KT Tunstell's Black Horse and The Cherry Tree. It was a very good choice that illustrates her quirky image and shows more of what she will bring in weeks to come. She has a very good chance of making the cut.
Von Smith tried to rise to the occasion with the top 10 hit from 1976 by Elton John, Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word. It started out very slow and bland, but he saved it all for the end where he hit the big notes for the climactic finish. It's sad. So sad. It's a sad sad situation that this probably won't be enough to push him into the next round.
Jasmine Murray hoped that by singing the song that first introduced the world to #1 hitmaker and Grammy winner for Best New Artist, Christina Aguilera, the judges would see who she really is inside. It wasn't exactly the song that showcased her as a contemporary chart topper, but it clearly demonstrated that she has an impressive vocal range. She may be getting more chances to show off her stuff.
Ricky Braddy sang the song that Stevie Wonder took all the way to #1 in 1972, Superstition. It's clear that he has a good voice and he did his best to show that he has the stage presence and showmanship to go along with it. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like he has it all. It's not likely that he will be moving on.
You gotta wonder why Tatiana Del Toro decided to sing Whitney Houston's 1985 #1 hit Saving All My Love For You again. She just did it a few weeks ago, albeit pretty well, but it didn't impress the viewers to vote for her back then. While it was just as good this time around it's not likely to make the judges think she can do anything else in coming weeks.
Anoop Desai did his best to impress with the 1988 #1 hit by Bobby Brown, My Prerogative. While he also has a good voice along with a genuine and sincere personality, this song pointed out quite clearly how completely uncool he is. It was vocally bland and the showmanship was very unconvincing. This should be his last chance.
Overall, I don't think this group of lucky 8 finalists did what they had to do to make the best argument for a shot in the top 12.
Here's what the judges decided:
Jasmine Murray got the good news that she has made it into the top 12. Ricky Braddy will not. Megan Joy Corkrey will also be taking her place in the top 12 while Tatiana Del Toro once again did not make the cut. Jesse Langseth also did not. Neither did Von Smith. With just Matt Giraud and Anoop Desai remaining the very lucky twist was revealed that they have both made it into the TOP 13!!!
So here are the finalists who have made it to the next round of competition:
Scott MacIntyre
Adam Lambert
Lil Rounds
Danny Gokey
Jasmine Murray
Alexis Grace
Kris Allen
Jorge Nunez
Michael Sarver
Allison Iraheta
Matt Giraud
Megan Joy Corkrey
Anoop Desai
My prediction is that Scott MacIntyre, Lil Rounds and Adam Lambert are going to be headed all the way up to the top three and one of them will be crowned the Season 8 Miss American Idol!
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