Tonight we lay what has been a very disappointing Season 10 to rest. The Idol wannabes sang fine all season--they may have been the best bunch of Idol finalists in the ten year history of American Idol, but this season proved that Idol is not the Juggernaut it was with a certain Englishman and his tight t-shirts.
That aside, it is finally time to crown the Idol that captured the most votes after last night's performances. Will it be Country Boy Scotty "the body" McCreedy (drink!) or Southern Girl Lauren Alaina?
As with finale shows in season's past, the best part of the night will likely be when the other eleven Idols who were sent home early make their final appearances on the Idol stage.
The night started with a Lady Gaga group sing. Dressed in white with silver, the thirteen Idols joined forces on "Born this Way" and moved around the stage in "Up With People" fashion. It was good to see the other Idols and was a fine start to the night.
The first solo performance was turned in by Idol's resident Rocker, James Durbin, who sang with Heavy Metal kings, Judas Priest. Watching James and the Priests rock it on "Living After Midnight" followed by "Breaking the Law" made me long for a more diverse Idol final and not the Hee Haw mish-mash we were forced to endure last night. Oh well...
While you think about what might have been, I will watch Jacob sing a tune with Gospel great Curt Franklin. Jacob and Curtis got the crowd going with a duet of "Smile" and just when you thought it couldn't get any better, on to the stage walked Gladys Knight...minus the Pips. And the emotion really started flowing Idol flashed a number on screen asking for donations for the Red Cross to be used to help the victims of the recent tornadoes that demolished the town of Joplin, MO.
So far the three performances we have seen tonight blow away (by a wide margin) anything we heard last night. And when we returned from commercial we were greeted by early season favorite, Casey Abrams, who sang "Flat Bottomed Girls" with School of Rock rocker, Jack Black! It wasn't necessarily a vocal master class, but so much more entertaining that anything we say 24 hours ago...and it only got better when onto the stage rode a bevy of girls on two-wheelers and wearing different colored spandex short-shorts. Good times!
The ladies of Idol took the stage next dressed in red and black dresses and moving around the stage as they sang a group medley of Beyonce hits starting off with "Single Ladies" followed by "Irreplaceable", "Get Me Bodied", "If I Were a Boy", and finishing with "Deja Vu" before inviting the former Destiny's Child star to the stage for a sing-along of "Crazy in Love". It was probably the best group sing in the history of Idol! If you don't believe me, YouTube it! You won't be sorry...and guess what? The only female missing...Lauren! Coincidence? You be the judge.
Fresh off of a great group performance, third place Idol finalist, hit the stage with Mr. Tony Bennett to sing "Steppin' Out"...and it was another smash hit! BTW: Any idea how old Tony is? If you guessed 85 (soon), you'd be right! But it is a very young 85! He sounded awesome and Hailey was up to the challenge.
In what I am quite sure the first time in history, Tony Bennett's performance was followed by one from Lil Jon (he of "Celebrity Apprentice" fame) who exploded onto the stage. After Lil' Jon got the crowd revved up, TLC appeared and sang a silky version of "Waterfall". To add an Idol flavor, the girls of TLC were joined by the four Idol girls not named Pia, Hailey, or Lauren. It was another good performance--and not a single country sound...
Until Scotty and Tim McGraw dueted on "Like You Were Dying". Tim kicked off the performance in his traditional look--tight tee and jeans, cowboy boots, and black hat. Bathed in a single spot, Tim made me like Country again...and then Scotty saddled up next to Mr. McGraw, turned his microphone sideways, and made me wish they didn't have phones in hillbilly country! Just kidding--Scotty did a fine job singing his genre (he always does), I just wish he would TRY something different...not gonna happen.
You know what else isn't gonna happen? Idol's obsession with self-promotion. This time it was Mr. J-Lo who got the special star treatment. That's right, Marc Anthony sang a Spanish language song...the best part of which was watching Sheila E. play percussion--bringing back sweet memories of her '80's hit "Glamorous Life". But Sheila E. wasn't the only special guest...J-Lo made an appearance reprising her role of fly-girl form the '90's hit, "In Living Color". I'm not a big Marc Anthony fan, but I found this performance quite entertaining...and something one might see on one of those shows on Univision.
Once they cleared the stage of the Latin lovers, they made room for the Boys of Idol who did their a medley of songs made popular by Welsh ladies man, Tom Jones: "Kiss", "She's A Lady", "What's New Pussycat","Green Green Grass of Home" (to help Scotty feel at home),"Love Me Tonight", "Delilah", and then the cherry on top of the sundae, "It's Not Unusual" with Mr. Tom Jones himself! It was a great performance--how can you go wrong when you are working with the songs of Tom Jones?!, but it wasn't quite as good as the medley turned in by the girls. So if you are keeping score, it's Girls 1, Boys 0 in the medley department.
Remember way back at the start of the show when the Idols did a Lady Gaga song? Well, it is now time to bring on the Lady herself! Dressed in a...oh, who am I kidding? Can anyone really describe what Gaga wears?! Let's talk about her performance of "On the Edge"...flawless! Although she may have been pushing a bit close to the edge with some of the simulated acts she was doing with one of her male dancers atop a structure on the Idol stage. But I'm quite sure her little monsters loved it...and why wouldn't they?!
With a little more than 30 minutes left in the Season, Lauren sang a duet with former Idol champ, Carrie Underwood. The two southern girls teamed up on Carrie's hit "Before He Cheats". Carrie looked great in a sparkly off the shoulder number with white short-shorts (the second use of that clothing item in the blog!) while Lauren was dressed in a black dress/top and black leggings. The girls did a nice job--especially Carrie who is one of the best singers...Idol or otherwise!
Beyonce made her second appearance of the night when she sang "1 + 1". I'm not sure what to think of the song--didn't seem much to it besides Beyonce asking the person to whom she is singing to make love to her. Beyond that, it was fairly boring song...I just kept waiting for her to hit the bridge and kick the song into second gear. But alas I didn't get my wish and foolishly resisted the urge to use the FF button to get to the next performance. The crowd seemed to like it...
But what would the crowd think of a special performance of a U2-written song from the much maligned "Spiderman" Broadway show? Said song was performed by Reeve Carney--who? Whoever he is, he looks about 12 and had the pleasure of singing the song with Bono and the Edge, so he must be someone, right?
After that performance and a couple of commericals (which did get the FF treatment), Ryan introduced judge Steven Tyler who was seated at the Idol Grand Piano and sang the very well known "Dream Weaver". If I can give Steven some advice (something he and the other judges refused to do this year), Steven should go back to performing ON the stage and leave judging to someone who actually WANTS to judge--I am available and come at a much cheaper price than Steven!
So, at long last, it is time to learn the results of the record 122 million votes casted last evening. Ryan was handed the envelope that contained the certified results while Lauren, dressed in a canary yellow dress, and Scotty held hands and awaited the words that you just knew were going to be uttered...that the winner of Season 10 American Idol is...Scotty McCreery!
Well, I would love to tell you that I am shocked or surprised, but I just can't go there. In a season that saw every front runner booted from the stage (some more than once!), it is a very young country boy who outlasted the rest. Congratulations, Scotty...now get to Nashville and stay there...Idol is for pop stars!
And that's how Season 10 of American Idol went. Until next time, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Idol Worship - Country Cousins Battle for the Crown
Tonight's Idol final pits Georgia Peach, Lauren Alaina, against the pride of North Carolina, Scotty "the Body" McCreedy (drink!). As both of these teenage singers love their southern roots and rarely--or rather NEVER stray far from the Country genre, tonight's final performances will likely resemble something more akin to Nashville Star. But never fear, you don't have to put yourself through the yodeling (shout out)...that's what I'm here for.
Quick health note: apparently while prepping for tonight's big yodel fest, Lauren blew out one of her voice chords and there was some concern about whether she would be able to perform or not. Ryan cleared things up by bringing on stage an Idol doctor dressed in black scrubs who gave Lauren the "go 'head" to sing her little heart out. So that's just what she is going to do...one last time!
Here's how the song selections are going to go--three rounds: 1) contestant's fav, 2) their own Idol picks a song (George Strait picks Scotty's and Carrie Underwood picks for Lauren), and 3) their first single should they win Idol.
Round One and Scotty's up first singing "Gone". Scotty did his best impression of Garth Brooks in concert and sounded good--if you like that kind of thing. No judges comments, just Ryan reading out the phone numbers...I guess I'm not the only one who thinks the judges are essentially a waste of space this year...the Idol producers must be reading my blog!
Lauren's first round selection was "Flat on the Floor"...didn't like it the first time and not a big fan this time either. Toward the end it sounded like Lauren's voice betrayed her which couldn't be comforting to her knowing that there are two more songs to sing.
Hate to say it, but in my opinion, I have to give Round 1 to Scotty "the Body"! (drink).
Round 2 and the Idol's Idols were set to pick songs for the Idol Wannabes. George Strait decided to go old school (relatively) and picked one of his own hits from last century, "Check Yes or No". Scotty strapped on his guitar, donned his best "Howdy Doody" shirt, and sang the song like an Idol wannabe singing a Country Superstar's song. Not a fan of that version of the song.
Let's see what Lauren did with "Maybe It Was Memphis" which was selected by former Idol crown holder, Carrie Underwood. Dressed in a sparkly square dancing skirt and cowboy books, Lauren gave it her all, but you could tell her voice just didn't have the same clear sound as in past weeks. Could it be that Lauren is going to hand over the Idol title due to health reasons? It sure looks that way because I am going to give Round 2 to "the body" (drink).
Before the final round could commence, Ryan turned to the judges to get some feedback on the first two rounds. Randy was the first to go and credited America with selected a couple of fine finalists...I disagree. Then he gave a split decision on Rounds 1 and 2...J-Lo offered nothing during her time with the mic, but agreed with Randy on who won each round. Steven gave both rounds to Lauren because "she's prettier".
Round 3 kicked off with Taio Cruz singing the song that America helped him write. Taio was flanked by a drum corps with illuminated sticks, drums, and uniforms. It was very underwhelming.
Scotty took the stage to sing "I Love You This Big" which will be his first single should he win the title of Season 10 American Idol. Don't fall off your chair, but it's a country song! Now you may think I am not a fan of country music, but you would be wrong; I just am sick that Idol has turned into a country fest and so very predictable. And as I listen to Scotty sing this song I am finding it hard to stay awake--major YAWNER! He better hope he doesn't win if that is the kind of song he is going to record. That was terrible! Of course the judges fell all over themselves...pretty much saying nothing.
Thankfully there is but one song left in the competition and it will be delivered by Lauren. If Lauren wins, she will sing a song about moms...and not a good one like that one that Adam Samberg and Justin Timberlake sing--you know the one! I believe Lauren's is called "Like My Mother Does". About halfway through the song, Lauren made her way down from the stage (with an assist from Ryan) to share a hug and sing a bit directly to her mother. It was a sweet moment, but like Scotty, the song was a real downer. I won't waste your time telling you what the judges said because does it really matter?
With all three rounds in the can, I am going to give Round 3 to Lauren making the score: Scotty 2, Lauren 1. For the record, Randy and J-Lo predicted that Lauren would walk away with the title while Steven went against type and chose Scotty.
Before closing out the performance portion of the night, Ryan welcomed back former Idol, David Cook, to sing his version of "Don't You Forget About Me". Like everything else David sang on the Idol stage during his season, I thought it was awesome and easily the best thing sang all night...and a welcome change from the southern fare we have been force fed for much of the season.
Tune in tomorrow when the rest of the Idol finalists join a cast of thousands as they crown the Idol champ. Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to.
Charlie
Quick health note: apparently while prepping for tonight's big yodel fest, Lauren blew out one of her voice chords and there was some concern about whether she would be able to perform or not. Ryan cleared things up by bringing on stage an Idol doctor dressed in black scrubs who gave Lauren the "go 'head" to sing her little heart out. So that's just what she is going to do...one last time!
Here's how the song selections are going to go--three rounds: 1) contestant's fav, 2) their own Idol picks a song (George Strait picks Scotty's and Carrie Underwood picks for Lauren), and 3) their first single should they win Idol.
Round One and Scotty's up first singing "Gone". Scotty did his best impression of Garth Brooks in concert and sounded good--if you like that kind of thing. No judges comments, just Ryan reading out the phone numbers...I guess I'm not the only one who thinks the judges are essentially a waste of space this year...the Idol producers must be reading my blog!
Lauren's first round selection was "Flat on the Floor"...didn't like it the first time and not a big fan this time either. Toward the end it sounded like Lauren's voice betrayed her which couldn't be comforting to her knowing that there are two more songs to sing.
Hate to say it, but in my opinion, I have to give Round 1 to Scotty "the Body"! (drink).
Round 2 and the Idol's Idols were set to pick songs for the Idol Wannabes. George Strait decided to go old school (relatively) and picked one of his own hits from last century, "Check Yes or No". Scotty strapped on his guitar, donned his best "Howdy Doody" shirt, and sang the song like an Idol wannabe singing a Country Superstar's song. Not a fan of that version of the song.
Let's see what Lauren did with "Maybe It Was Memphis" which was selected by former Idol crown holder, Carrie Underwood. Dressed in a sparkly square dancing skirt and cowboy books, Lauren gave it her all, but you could tell her voice just didn't have the same clear sound as in past weeks. Could it be that Lauren is going to hand over the Idol title due to health reasons? It sure looks that way because I am going to give Round 2 to "the body" (drink).
Before the final round could commence, Ryan turned to the judges to get some feedback on the first two rounds. Randy was the first to go and credited America with selected a couple of fine finalists...I disagree. Then he gave a split decision on Rounds 1 and 2...J-Lo offered nothing during her time with the mic, but agreed with Randy on who won each round. Steven gave both rounds to Lauren because "she's prettier".
Round 3 kicked off with Taio Cruz singing the song that America helped him write. Taio was flanked by a drum corps with illuminated sticks, drums, and uniforms. It was very underwhelming.
Scotty took the stage to sing "I Love You This Big" which will be his first single should he win the title of Season 10 American Idol. Don't fall off your chair, but it's a country song! Now you may think I am not a fan of country music, but you would be wrong; I just am sick that Idol has turned into a country fest and so very predictable. And as I listen to Scotty sing this song I am finding it hard to stay awake--major YAWNER! He better hope he doesn't win if that is the kind of song he is going to record. That was terrible! Of course the judges fell all over themselves...pretty much saying nothing.
Thankfully there is but one song left in the competition and it will be delivered by Lauren. If Lauren wins, she will sing a song about moms...and not a good one like that one that Adam Samberg and Justin Timberlake sing--you know the one! I believe Lauren's is called "Like My Mother Does". About halfway through the song, Lauren made her way down from the stage (with an assist from Ryan) to share a hug and sing a bit directly to her mother. It was a sweet moment, but like Scotty, the song was a real downer. I won't waste your time telling you what the judges said because does it really matter?
With all three rounds in the can, I am going to give Round 3 to Lauren making the score: Scotty 2, Lauren 1. For the record, Randy and J-Lo predicted that Lauren would walk away with the title while Steven went against type and chose Scotty.
Before closing out the performance portion of the night, Ryan welcomed back former Idol, David Cook, to sing his version of "Don't You Forget About Me". Like everything else David sang on the Idol stage during his season, I thought it was awesome and easily the best thing sang all night...and a welcome change from the southern fare we have been force fed for much of the season.
Tune in tomorrow when the rest of the Idol finalists join a cast of thousands as they crown the Idol champ. Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to.
Charlie
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Idol Chatter - The Final Finalists Finally
So last night the three remaining Idols sang three songs with the hopes that you would pick up the phone and dial the numbers that translated into votes that would save them tonight and launch them into the one night, winner-take-all event next week with the chance to join the other immortals from Idols first nine seasons. But first a few questions:
Did your favorite make it to the finals? Better question: was your favorite in the line up last night? Best question: did America send your favorite home long before they deserved to go home? Bestest question: have you lost all respect for Idol and the process for finding THE American Idol?
Questions asked, answered, and debated...and now it's time to find out what happened on the second to last elimination show of Season 10. Check out all the action starting....NOW!...THIS...IS...IDOL...CHATTER!
Here's the rundown of tonight's special guests: there will be performances by Italian Trio Il Volo, Pussy Cat and Mirror Ball Champ Nicole Scherzinger with an assist from rapper and business mogul Two Bits...er, 50 Cent. Plus we get to go home with the final three as they were given the special treatment by the hometown fans--radio/TV interviews, parades in their honor, and keys to the city...usual fare.
We watched as Hailey was whisked off by private jet to her hometown of Wheeling, IL by way of Chicago. Hailey's parade was literally rained on, but that did dampen (pun intended) the spirit or turn out of the people of Wheeling. She was cheered everywhere she went--to her high school, the parade, and finally at Arlington Race Track where she performed "Sweet Home Chicago" to thirty thousand of her adoring hometown fans.
Scotty flew home to Garner, NC and received the southern fried star treatment from his mostly pre-pubescent Carolina fans. Included in his itinerary were stops at the local baseball diamond where Scotty showed his pitching form, the grocery store where he bagged groceries pre-Idol, and a concert that turned out to be a sing-a-long with Josh Turner (he of the "Lock the doors and turn the lights down low" fame). Scotty, rightly, called it the best day of his young life.
On our final Idol trip home, we joined Lauren as she spent time with her family and friends in Georgia. Lauren's trip was especially poignant because it was her first time seeing the destruction caused by the many tornadoes that destroyed many homes and lives a few weeks ago. As you might imagine, Lauren's trip home was filled with emotions of all shapes and sizes. It was quite humbling to see and hear some of the stories shared during her trip.
But emotions aside, it is finally time to find out who is in the Finals next week...the first Idol to go through to next week is...Scotty. Any guesses as to what type of song he'll be singing come next Tuesday?
And the other finalist is...Lauren. So it's official, Idol's gone country. And the judges couldn't look happier.
Tune in next week for what promises to be a predictable and likely boring one-note country fest. Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
Did your favorite make it to the finals? Better question: was your favorite in the line up last night? Best question: did America send your favorite home long before they deserved to go home? Bestest question: have you lost all respect for Idol and the process for finding THE American Idol?
Questions asked, answered, and debated...and now it's time to find out what happened on the second to last elimination show of Season 10. Check out all the action starting....NOW!...THIS...IS...IDOL...CHATTER!
Here's the rundown of tonight's special guests: there will be performances by Italian Trio Il Volo, Pussy Cat and Mirror Ball Champ Nicole Scherzinger with an assist from rapper and business mogul Two Bits...er, 50 Cent. Plus we get to go home with the final three as they were given the special treatment by the hometown fans--radio/TV interviews, parades in their honor, and keys to the city...usual fare.
We watched as Hailey was whisked off by private jet to her hometown of Wheeling, IL by way of Chicago. Hailey's parade was literally rained on, but that did dampen (pun intended) the spirit or turn out of the people of Wheeling. She was cheered everywhere she went--to her high school, the parade, and finally at Arlington Race Track where she performed "Sweet Home Chicago" to thirty thousand of her adoring hometown fans.
Scotty flew home to Garner, NC and received the southern fried star treatment from his mostly pre-pubescent Carolina fans. Included in his itinerary were stops at the local baseball diamond where Scotty showed his pitching form, the grocery store where he bagged groceries pre-Idol, and a concert that turned out to be a sing-a-long with Josh Turner (he of the "Lock the doors and turn the lights down low" fame). Scotty, rightly, called it the best day of his young life.
On our final Idol trip home, we joined Lauren as she spent time with her family and friends in Georgia. Lauren's trip was especially poignant because it was her first time seeing the destruction caused by the many tornadoes that destroyed many homes and lives a few weeks ago. As you might imagine, Lauren's trip home was filled with emotions of all shapes and sizes. It was quite humbling to see and hear some of the stories shared during her trip.
But emotions aside, it is finally time to find out who is in the Finals next week...the first Idol to go through to next week is...Scotty. Any guesses as to what type of song he'll be singing come next Tuesday?
And the other finalist is...Lauren. So it's official, Idol's gone country. And the judges couldn't look happier.
Tune in next week for what promises to be a predictable and likely boring one-note country fest. Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Idol Worship - The Final Three Sing Thrice
We're down to the final three and it's any body's game...and I have just one question for you: Who is going to win? Will it be the NFL star in whom the judges see no wrong? Will it be the TV star who defies the look and age of a ballroom dancer? Or will it be the Disney star who has broken all of the rules all season?
Wait a minute...wrong show!
The three remaining Idols...actually Idol wannabes are: Scotty the Body (Drink!), Georgia Peach Lauren, and Growling Hailey. And because it is the final three, they get to sing three times to win your votes.
Tonight the Idols will sing a song of their own choosing (and be mentored by pop superstar, movie star, and all around fashion mogul, Beyonce), they will a song chosen by Jimmy Iovine, and the always popular judge's choice.
Before getting into the singing, is it me or is this the most anti-climatic final three in Idol history? With that as the backdrop, here's how Round 1 went:
Scotty went first and surprise, surprise he choice a country tune to sing! While you pick yourself up off the floor I'll tell you the song was Lonestar's "Amazed". As usual, Scotty sounded good, but I am so bored with him that I just about fell asleep during the performance. The judges...who cares?! They slobbered all over him and pumped him full of lame complements. J-Lo, of course, took full credit for how he has grown (her words) throughout the competition. About the only remotely interesting thing any of the judges said was when Randy pulled out the brag book and said he produced that very song for Boyz to Men many moons ago.
As I was made aware of after last week's show, Idol has officially Gone Country! And in keeping with that theme, Lauren choice to do Faith Hill's "Wild One" an up tempo number that I predict the judges will think was the perfect choice and that she just slayed. When Lauren hit the stage dressed in a red and white frock, flowers hanging from her ears, and white cowboy boots with black leggings tucked into them, she was surrounded by a few musicians and she did her thing. I didn't care for the song or the performance and felt the ending was really odd--it seemed like she wasn't ready for the song to end. The judges, as assumed, gushed like it was Faith on the stage and not an Idol contestant.
Idol dark horse, Hailey was the last to go in Round 1 and flipped the script by selecting Led Zepplin's "What Is & What Should Never Be"...a risk for sure. But to help ease the pain I'm quite sure the judges will put her through, Hailey will have her daddy nearby because he joined her on stage playing guitar (an Idol first!)...oops! As Hailey was making her way back to the stage after a spin around the judge's table and the catwalk, she tripped on the stage steps and crashed! But in true "the show must go on" mode, Hailey picked herself up and continued singing and dancing...and in the end she may have actually won the judges over. Randy gave her mad props calling it maybe "your best performance yet!" Steven told her it "isn't how many times you fall down, it's how many times you get back up". J-Lo, as usual, inserted herself in the mix by stepping on Steven's words and telling Hailey that everyone--including Beyonce, fall on stage.
With Round 1 in the bag, I have to give it to Hailey! She was the only one to take any chance amongst the three. The judges agreed with me...as much as it obviously pained them.
Round 2 and song chosen by Jimmy Iovene.
For Scotty, Jimmy picked "Are You Going to Kiss Me or Not" by Thompson Square...another Country song. We get it, Scotty can sing Country. But he's boring as H-E-double hockey sticks! There really isn't anything else to write about Scotty, the performance, or the judges. Nothing changes with this kid. I say give him the boot (Cowboy Boot!) and let him go record for RCA Nashville...and let's get someone back who can actually give us something fresh...talk about a lack of imagination.
Let's see what song Jimmy selects for the other Idol Gone Country contestant, Lauren. Well, shock of all shocks Jimmy went with a Country song!..."If I Die Young" by The Band Perry. Unlike Scotty, Lauren actually made the song entertaining...by forgetting the lyrics before the final push! Classic! Let's see if the judges point that out or if they chose to ignore the obvious mistake...oh snap! J-Lo just called the lyric slip "getting caught up in an honest moment". Randy and Steven piled on and actually complemented her for f-ing up! Amazing!
Bringing up the rear in Round 2, Hailey took the stage to sing "Rianna" by Fleetwood Mac and sung by Stevie Nicks. For the first time in Round 2, we actually have the opportunity to hear someone sing something interesting. Hailey started the song slow and when she hit the first chorus, not only did the tempo pick up, but the Idol fan started blowing give Hailey the look of an Angel flying through the Idol sky giving the voters something to consider that isn't all formula and boring. So what would the judges find to criticize? Randy thought it was a somber moment--what is this guy smoking?! Somber? That was one of the greatest songs ever (kind of like the Led Zepplin song she sang in Round 1) and I thought Hailey nailed it! J-Lo expressed disappointment that Hailey didn't take it further. Are these idiots listening to the songs or are they so in love with the Country Cousins that they can't see talent?
So when pressed for they choice to pick the winner of Round 2, Steven picked Lauren and J-Lo and Randy picked Scotty. That's just crazy!
Round 3 was delayed while Idol premiered to the world Beyonce's new music video...which I FF'ed through to get to the Idols.
In this round, the Idols will sing songs selected by the judges. For Scotty, the judges picked a...gasp! Country song! This time Scotty get's to channel his inner Kenny Rogers (pre-plastic surgery) on "She Believes in Me". Scotty, again, sang well, but there is just no magic in hearing him sing everything the same. Aren't you all tired of having Scotty dropped the same needle on the same groove every time out? Well I am...or maybe you hadn't noticed. And it should come as no surprise that the judges just loved it...and why wouldn't they?--they picked the song and they believe he can do no wrong.
Lauren's judge's song was "I Hope You Dance" by LeeAnn Womack. Dressed in what can only be described as a rejected prom or bridesmaid dress the color of daiquiri ice and looking much older than her teen aged years, Lauren did a passable job of performing what is a very nice song. But I wonder what the judges are thinking having these Country Bumpkins sing two relatively downer songs. As with Scotty the judges fell all over themselves complementing Lauren...J-Lo gave Lauren Round 3 even before Hailey had a chance to screw up. BTW: Randy said he loved the color of the dress...agree to disagree!
In a final effort to curry favor from the judges and you the voters, Hailey was given "You Ought to Know" by Alain Morrisette. Of the three judge's song selections, this was the only one that asked any of the contestants to show any vocal range whatsoever. Hailey lent her signature growl to the song and hit is out of the park! She even found time to work the stage, the audience, and the judges--especially when she go right in their faces and screamed the chorus! The judges begrudgingly gave her credit for doing an OK job...you could tell that J-Lo, especially, struggled to give Hailey any positive feedback. J-Lo is quickly becoming the Carrie Ann of Idol (second DWTS reference!).
So with three rounds in the can, it's in your hands. Who you gonna vote for? Or better, who are you going to ignore and send home tomorrow? My guess is Hailey is going home...she doesn't deserve to go--in my opinion she is the only one of the three remaining Idol wannabes that holds my interest. But that's just me...
Tune in tomorrow to see which semi-finalist is going to fall just one week short of participating in the finals. Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
Wait a minute...wrong show!
The three remaining Idols...actually Idol wannabes are: Scotty the Body (Drink!), Georgia Peach Lauren, and Growling Hailey. And because it is the final three, they get to sing three times to win your votes.
Tonight the Idols will sing a song of their own choosing (and be mentored by pop superstar, movie star, and all around fashion mogul, Beyonce), they will a song chosen by Jimmy Iovine, and the always popular judge's choice.
Before getting into the singing, is it me or is this the most anti-climatic final three in Idol history? With that as the backdrop, here's how Round 1 went:
Scotty went first and surprise, surprise he choice a country tune to sing! While you pick yourself up off the floor I'll tell you the song was Lonestar's "Amazed". As usual, Scotty sounded good, but I am so bored with him that I just about fell asleep during the performance. The judges...who cares?! They slobbered all over him and pumped him full of lame complements. J-Lo, of course, took full credit for how he has grown (her words) throughout the competition. About the only remotely interesting thing any of the judges said was when Randy pulled out the brag book and said he produced that very song for Boyz to Men many moons ago.
As I was made aware of after last week's show, Idol has officially Gone Country! And in keeping with that theme, Lauren choice to do Faith Hill's "Wild One" an up tempo number that I predict the judges will think was the perfect choice and that she just slayed. When Lauren hit the stage dressed in a red and white frock, flowers hanging from her ears, and white cowboy boots with black leggings tucked into them, she was surrounded by a few musicians and she did her thing. I didn't care for the song or the performance and felt the ending was really odd--it seemed like she wasn't ready for the song to end. The judges, as assumed, gushed like it was Faith on the stage and not an Idol contestant.
Idol dark horse, Hailey was the last to go in Round 1 and flipped the script by selecting Led Zepplin's "What Is & What Should Never Be"...a risk for sure. But to help ease the pain I'm quite sure the judges will put her through, Hailey will have her daddy nearby because he joined her on stage playing guitar (an Idol first!)...oops! As Hailey was making her way back to the stage after a spin around the judge's table and the catwalk, she tripped on the stage steps and crashed! But in true "the show must go on" mode, Hailey picked herself up and continued singing and dancing...and in the end she may have actually won the judges over. Randy gave her mad props calling it maybe "your best performance yet!" Steven told her it "isn't how many times you fall down, it's how many times you get back up". J-Lo, as usual, inserted herself in the mix by stepping on Steven's words and telling Hailey that everyone--including Beyonce, fall on stage.
With Round 1 in the bag, I have to give it to Hailey! She was the only one to take any chance amongst the three. The judges agreed with me...as much as it obviously pained them.
Round 2 and song chosen by Jimmy Iovene.
For Scotty, Jimmy picked "Are You Going to Kiss Me or Not" by Thompson Square...another Country song. We get it, Scotty can sing Country. But he's boring as H-E-double hockey sticks! There really isn't anything else to write about Scotty, the performance, or the judges. Nothing changes with this kid. I say give him the boot (Cowboy Boot!) and let him go record for RCA Nashville...and let's get someone back who can actually give us something fresh...talk about a lack of imagination.
Let's see what song Jimmy selects for the other Idol Gone Country contestant, Lauren. Well, shock of all shocks Jimmy went with a Country song!..."If I Die Young" by The Band Perry. Unlike Scotty, Lauren actually made the song entertaining...by forgetting the lyrics before the final push! Classic! Let's see if the judges point that out or if they chose to ignore the obvious mistake...oh snap! J-Lo just called the lyric slip "getting caught up in an honest moment". Randy and Steven piled on and actually complemented her for f-ing up! Amazing!
Bringing up the rear in Round 2, Hailey took the stage to sing "Rianna" by Fleetwood Mac and sung by Stevie Nicks. For the first time in Round 2, we actually have the opportunity to hear someone sing something interesting. Hailey started the song slow and when she hit the first chorus, not only did the tempo pick up, but the Idol fan started blowing give Hailey the look of an Angel flying through the Idol sky giving the voters something to consider that isn't all formula and boring. So what would the judges find to criticize? Randy thought it was a somber moment--what is this guy smoking?! Somber? That was one of the greatest songs ever (kind of like the Led Zepplin song she sang in Round 1) and I thought Hailey nailed it! J-Lo expressed disappointment that Hailey didn't take it further. Are these idiots listening to the songs or are they so in love with the Country Cousins that they can't see talent?
So when pressed for they choice to pick the winner of Round 2, Steven picked Lauren and J-Lo and Randy picked Scotty. That's just crazy!
Round 3 was delayed while Idol premiered to the world Beyonce's new music video...which I FF'ed through to get to the Idols.
In this round, the Idols will sing songs selected by the judges. For Scotty, the judges picked a...gasp! Country song! This time Scotty get's to channel his inner Kenny Rogers (pre-plastic surgery) on "She Believes in Me". Scotty, again, sang well, but there is just no magic in hearing him sing everything the same. Aren't you all tired of having Scotty dropped the same needle on the same groove every time out? Well I am...or maybe you hadn't noticed. And it should come as no surprise that the judges just loved it...and why wouldn't they?--they picked the song and they believe he can do no wrong.
Lauren's judge's song was "I Hope You Dance" by LeeAnn Womack. Dressed in what can only be described as a rejected prom or bridesmaid dress the color of daiquiri ice and looking much older than her teen aged years, Lauren did a passable job of performing what is a very nice song. But I wonder what the judges are thinking having these Country Bumpkins sing two relatively downer songs. As with Scotty the judges fell all over themselves complementing Lauren...J-Lo gave Lauren Round 3 even before Hailey had a chance to screw up. BTW: Randy said he loved the color of the dress...agree to disagree!
In a final effort to curry favor from the judges and you the voters, Hailey was given "You Ought to Know" by Alain Morrisette. Of the three judge's song selections, this was the only one that asked any of the contestants to show any vocal range whatsoever. Hailey lent her signature growl to the song and hit is out of the park! She even found time to work the stage, the audience, and the judges--especially when she go right in their faces and screamed the chorus! The judges begrudgingly gave her credit for doing an OK job...you could tell that J-Lo, especially, struggled to give Hailey any positive feedback. J-Lo is quickly becoming the Carrie Ann of Idol (second DWTS reference!).
So with three rounds in the can, it's in your hands. Who you gonna vote for? Or better, who are you going to ignore and send home tomorrow? My guess is Hailey is going home...she doesn't deserve to go--in my opinion she is the only one of the three remaining Idol wannabes that holds my interest. But that's just me...
Tune in tomorrow to see which semi-finalist is going to fall just one week short of participating in the finals. Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
Friday, May 13, 2011
Idol Worship - The Final Four Take the Stage Twice
It's the Final Four and that can only mean one thing...MAY MADNESS! The remaining four Idols--James, Hailey, Scotty, and Lauren will be mentored by pop icon, Lady Gaga as they sing songs that inspire them as well as those written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller--a couple of guys born during FDR's administration...his FIRST one! According to Ryan, these guys wrote every song known to man...or words to that affect.
James was the first Idol to toe the boards and kicked off the night with a song of inspiration from Journey (and Glee) called "Don't Stop Believin'". As James sat casually on the Idol staircase at the back of the stage, he emplored the audience to get into the song and gave a shout out to Randy for it was Mr. Jackson who played Bass on this '80's hit...about four-thousand times (according to The Dawg!). When all was said and done, James sounded like he was in concert and the crowd cheered him like they wanted an encore--which will have to wait about three more performances. The judges gave him praise...and this time there was no advice needed for St. James is essentially turning this season into a race for second.
Going second tonight was Hailey who chose to sing Michael Jackson's "Earth Song"--a moving song that Hailey hopes to move you to cast your vote her way. Hailey started out sitting on a mini staircase (three steps) on center stage bathed in a single spot with fog drifting around her. As she hit the chorus, Hailey was joined by a choir entering from the back of the stage and then she unleashed her inner Janis Joplin and gave it all she had. When she wrapped her performance, the audience gave a rousing round of applause and the judges sat motionless...and then J-Lo gave her a scolding. While J-Lo gave the tounge lashing, Hailey gave her (and Randy when he started his rant) the "WTF" stare...and then defended herself. Steven stepped in and essentially agreed with Hailey saying "they're (J-Lo and Randy) wrong!" Funny how the judges wait until the final four to finally start giving some constructive feedback...or at least their version. I say, sit back and let the Idols do their thing...aka "Shut the (blank) up, J-Lo!"
Scotty went next and sang Alan Jackson's "Where Were You When the World Stop Turning"--an ode to the tragedy that occurred on September 11, 2001. Whether Scotty sings this song well or not, the judges would be committing professional suicide by saying anything negative about Scotty's performance...but I don't have to worry about that kind of backlash. The song is good and full of inspiration, but I didn't think Scotty did all that good tonight. What I want to know is why do they push the pop singers on Idol to go outside of their comfort zone, but they continue to give props to Scotty for singing the only genre he knows? I am SO OVER Scotty and the love affair the judges have going with him. I say challenge him to sing something that isn't a layup...even Carrie Underwood strayed from her Country roots a few times in route to being crowned Idol champ!
Rounding out the inspirational performances was Lauren who sang Martina McBride's "Build it Anyway"...a song she chose in dedication to her home area which has been devastated by tornadoes while she has been in Hollywood singing for your votes. Like Scotty, I doubt the judges will critize anything about Lauren's performance and, I must admit, I liked it a lot better than Scotty's, but I still found it falling quite a bit short of James'. The judges all professed their love for Lauren--especially Steven who complimented everything about her right down to the buckles on her shoes.
And now for Round Two and the songs of Lieber and Stoller.
In a rare Idol twist, the Idol producers flipped the performance order and Hailey led off the second round. For her song choice she went with "I Who Have Nothing". As noted earlier, the Idols were mentored by none other than Lady Gaga who worked with Hailey to make the song and her performance special. Joined on stage by a full string section and looking ravishing in an off the shoulder number, Hailey employed the advice doled out by Gaga to hook the audience, but what about the judges. Oh SNAP! They gave her a Standing O! And before the crowd could settle down, J-Lo's screechy voice pierced the air and she basically took full credit for a very strong performance. Then Randy spent the next several minutes patting himself on the back, Hailey again gave the "WTF" stare. Where's Simon when you need him? Contrary to what you think, Randy and J-Lo, it's not about you.
Country boy Scotty selected "Young Blood" by the Coasters...WHAT?! A non-country tune?! Can this be happening? In his session with Gaga, she told him to "make love to the microphone"...oh DOUBLE SNAP! So what would Scotty do with Gaga's advice? Well, to start, he came out dressed like Howdy Doody and then he made his way through the crowd singing what amounted to a gimmick song. Can't wait to hear what the judges say about that lame-a$$ performance. Randy thought it completed two sides of a "Scotty Concert"--a show I will NOT be attending. What are these judges hearing that I'm not...I thought the song sucked, the performance was corny, and Scotty should be gone for picking such a terrible song at this point in the contest.
Singing in the night's penultimate position was Lauren who chose to sing "Trouble" as performed by Elvis back in the late '50s. I'm a huge Elvis fan, so I am interested to see how she performs. Looking like one of the Mandrell sisters at the Grand Ole Opry and surrounded by a couple of musicians on stage, Lauren started out strong, but then she got all funky...moving around the judges table and then back on the stage again. The judges again professed their love for the young Georgia native...and again, I was mystified because I thought it was underwhelming.
Before James could close the show, Ryan found Mike Stoller in the audience and chatted him up for a few minutes. Mike was thrilled to hear the songs he and his partner wrote being performed on TV's number one show.
Interview over and now it's time to watch James sing "Love Potion #9". While James was practicing his performance with Gaga, she stepped behind him and phycially helped him wiggle his hips...what Gaga wants, Gaga gets! When it came time to perform for the audience (and your votes), it was obvious why the Idol producers messed with the order of performcers. James absolutely crushed the song bringing out his inner Adam Lambert while moving around the stage and in the audience with prytechics going off behind him. The judges praised him...I guess a broken clock is right two times a day, right?!
So who's going home tomorrow and who's going home to be honored by their hometowns this week? My prediction is Hailey is done for the season--I can't see her surviving J-Lo and Randy's harsh words...even though the worst performance of the night belongs to Scotty.
Tune in tomorrow to see who your votes save...until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to.
Charlie
James was the first Idol to toe the boards and kicked off the night with a song of inspiration from Journey (and Glee) called "Don't Stop Believin'". As James sat casually on the Idol staircase at the back of the stage, he emplored the audience to get into the song and gave a shout out to Randy for it was Mr. Jackson who played Bass on this '80's hit...about four-thousand times (according to The Dawg!). When all was said and done, James sounded like he was in concert and the crowd cheered him like they wanted an encore--which will have to wait about three more performances. The judges gave him praise...and this time there was no advice needed for St. James is essentially turning this season into a race for second.
Going second tonight was Hailey who chose to sing Michael Jackson's "Earth Song"--a moving song that Hailey hopes to move you to cast your vote her way. Hailey started out sitting on a mini staircase (three steps) on center stage bathed in a single spot with fog drifting around her. As she hit the chorus, Hailey was joined by a choir entering from the back of the stage and then she unleashed her inner Janis Joplin and gave it all she had. When she wrapped her performance, the audience gave a rousing round of applause and the judges sat motionless...and then J-Lo gave her a scolding. While J-Lo gave the tounge lashing, Hailey gave her (and Randy when he started his rant) the "WTF" stare...and then defended herself. Steven stepped in and essentially agreed with Hailey saying "they're (J-Lo and Randy) wrong!" Funny how the judges wait until the final four to finally start giving some constructive feedback...or at least their version. I say, sit back and let the Idols do their thing...aka "Shut the (blank) up, J-Lo!"
Scotty went next and sang Alan Jackson's "Where Were You When the World Stop Turning"--an ode to the tragedy that occurred on September 11, 2001. Whether Scotty sings this song well or not, the judges would be committing professional suicide by saying anything negative about Scotty's performance...but I don't have to worry about that kind of backlash. The song is good and full of inspiration, but I didn't think Scotty did all that good tonight. What I want to know is why do they push the pop singers on Idol to go outside of their comfort zone, but they continue to give props to Scotty for singing the only genre he knows? I am SO OVER Scotty and the love affair the judges have going with him. I say challenge him to sing something that isn't a layup...even Carrie Underwood strayed from her Country roots a few times in route to being crowned Idol champ!
Rounding out the inspirational performances was Lauren who sang Martina McBride's "Build it Anyway"...a song she chose in dedication to her home area which has been devastated by tornadoes while she has been in Hollywood singing for your votes. Like Scotty, I doubt the judges will critize anything about Lauren's performance and, I must admit, I liked it a lot better than Scotty's, but I still found it falling quite a bit short of James'. The judges all professed their love for Lauren--especially Steven who complimented everything about her right down to the buckles on her shoes.
And now for Round Two and the songs of Lieber and Stoller.
In a rare Idol twist, the Idol producers flipped the performance order and Hailey led off the second round. For her song choice she went with "I Who Have Nothing". As noted earlier, the Idols were mentored by none other than Lady Gaga who worked with Hailey to make the song and her performance special. Joined on stage by a full string section and looking ravishing in an off the shoulder number, Hailey employed the advice doled out by Gaga to hook the audience, but what about the judges. Oh SNAP! They gave her a Standing O! And before the crowd could settle down, J-Lo's screechy voice pierced the air and she basically took full credit for a very strong performance. Then Randy spent the next several minutes patting himself on the back, Hailey again gave the "WTF" stare. Where's Simon when you need him? Contrary to what you think, Randy and J-Lo, it's not about you.
Country boy Scotty selected "Young Blood" by the Coasters...WHAT?! A non-country tune?! Can this be happening? In his session with Gaga, she told him to "make love to the microphone"...oh DOUBLE SNAP! So what would Scotty do with Gaga's advice? Well, to start, he came out dressed like Howdy Doody and then he made his way through the crowd singing what amounted to a gimmick song. Can't wait to hear what the judges say about that lame-a$$ performance. Randy thought it completed two sides of a "Scotty Concert"--a show I will NOT be attending. What are these judges hearing that I'm not...I thought the song sucked, the performance was corny, and Scotty should be gone for picking such a terrible song at this point in the contest.
Singing in the night's penultimate position was Lauren who chose to sing "Trouble" as performed by Elvis back in the late '50s. I'm a huge Elvis fan, so I am interested to see how she performs. Looking like one of the Mandrell sisters at the Grand Ole Opry and surrounded by a couple of musicians on stage, Lauren started out strong, but then she got all funky...moving around the judges table and then back on the stage again. The judges again professed their love for the young Georgia native...and again, I was mystified because I thought it was underwhelming.
Before James could close the show, Ryan found Mike Stoller in the audience and chatted him up for a few minutes. Mike was thrilled to hear the songs he and his partner wrote being performed on TV's number one show.
Interview over and now it's time to watch James sing "Love Potion #9". While James was practicing his performance with Gaga, she stepped behind him and phycially helped him wiggle his hips...what Gaga wants, Gaga gets! When it came time to perform for the audience (and your votes), it was obvious why the Idol producers messed with the order of performcers. James absolutely crushed the song bringing out his inner Adam Lambert while moving around the stage and in the audience with prytechics going off behind him. The judges praised him...I guess a broken clock is right two times a day, right?!
So who's going home tomorrow and who's going home to be honored by their hometowns this week? My prediction is Hailey is done for the season--I can't see her surviving J-Lo and Randy's harsh words...even though the worst performance of the night belongs to Scotty.
Tune in tomorrow to see who your votes save...until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to.
Charlie
Idol Chatter - Someone is Sent Home for Good
The following was written during the Idol Elimination show which aired on Thursday, May 12th. Enjoy!
OK, here’s the drill: last night the four remaining Idols had two chances to win your votes; tonight we send home one of the Idols leaving three to battle it out next week for a chance to represent their adoring fans in the finals. If that don’t get your blood pumping then you’re in the wrong game!
Tonight promises to be a big night not only for the Idol contestants, but for all who view Idol—there will be performances by Jordin Sparks, Enrique Iglesias, and last night’s guest mentor Lady Gaga, and in keeping with this year’s theme of self-indulgence, we will be treated to the world premier of judge Steven Tyler’s new video…but who really cares about all of that filler? I just want to know who is going home and who is going to sing songs next week?
So that’s the line up…and here’s what happened…
Before any results were shared, Ryan rolled video of last night’s performances and judges comments. I know there were some who questioned whether Hailey was rude to the judges and in particular, Randy. She certainly gave him some attitude, but I think it was deserved because Randy (and J-Lo) were rude to her. They haven’t given any constructive feedback all season and last night they essentially attacked her because she tried to do something that wasn’t “safe”…well, boo-hoo, Randy and J-Lo!
Back to tonight and the group sing. Scotty and James paired up to sing Brad Paisley’s “Start a Band”…now why would these two sing a country hit? Because Scotty can’t sing any other genre, that’s why! It is my opinion that Scotty would be a better fit for Nashville Star than American Idol because Idol is a pop show and Scotty doesn’t do pop. On the other hand, James can (and DOES) do anything! He is definitely the best of Idol and deserves to not only make it into next week’s performance show, but he should be the last man standing when the Idol crown is passed in a couple of weeks.
Sticking with the country duet theme, the remaining Idol ladies did their thing with “Gun Powder and Lead” by Miranda Lambert. Again, what’s the deal with the country songs? Lauren can certainly sing other genres, right?! Oh did I miss the memo that said Idol has gone country?! Regardless of what did or didn’t happen, the girls did a passable job with the song…there seemed to be some screaming going on during the middle part, but who cares, it’s elimination night and there are more important things to consider tonight.
Nineteen minutes into the show, Ryan told Lauren that she is heading home this week…to be honored as one of the top three finalists! Congratulations, Lauren…and now the other three Idols are going to have to wait through some guest performances to learn their fate starting with a visit from Lady Gaga who did her “Something Crazy” song dressed in little more than leather undergarments and fishnet stockings.
The next guest star to hit the stage was Julio’s boy, Enrique…but I couldn’t be bothered to watch or listen, so you are on your own as to how he did.
After buzzing through the Ford music video, Ryan sat with the three Idols still wondering if they are going home for a short visit or for good…and were forced to watch yet another performance. This time it was Season 6 Idol winner, Jordin Sparks. Anyone remember who Jordin beat(boxed) to take the Idol crown way back when? If you guessed Blake, then you were right.
Again thru the magic of the FF button on my Comcast remote, I was able to get through not only Jordin’s performance and the ensuing commercials, but also Steven Tyler’s video…I just have to find out who is going home and who I will be forced to watch next week—aren’t you?!
Whether you are ready or not, here are more results…and you are not going to believe them because Hailey has just been told that she is safe! That’s right, after 5 straight girls went home early in the contest, the final two girls have outlasted all but one of the boys…but which boy would it be? Scotty or James? Unfortunately it is Scotty…can you believe it? I can’t and neither can anyone in the audience or at the judges table.
Once again the voters got it wrong. There is no way that Scotty deserves to be the last boy standing…and the worst part of it is that now we have to listen to the judges slobber all over Scotty for at least another week. Big bummer!
So your semi-finals are set and it’s going to be the Country Cousins and the Idol judges against Hailey…my vote (if I had one) is on Hailey.
Tune in next week to see how the Idols do after a visit home and all of the craziness that involves.
Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don’t have to…
Charlie
OK, here’s the drill: last night the four remaining Idols had two chances to win your votes; tonight we send home one of the Idols leaving three to battle it out next week for a chance to represent their adoring fans in the finals. If that don’t get your blood pumping then you’re in the wrong game!
Tonight promises to be a big night not only for the Idol contestants, but for all who view Idol—there will be performances by Jordin Sparks, Enrique Iglesias, and last night’s guest mentor Lady Gaga, and in keeping with this year’s theme of self-indulgence, we will be treated to the world premier of judge Steven Tyler’s new video…but who really cares about all of that filler? I just want to know who is going home and who is going to sing songs next week?
So that’s the line up…and here’s what happened…
Before any results were shared, Ryan rolled video of last night’s performances and judges comments. I know there were some who questioned whether Hailey was rude to the judges and in particular, Randy. She certainly gave him some attitude, but I think it was deserved because Randy (and J-Lo) were rude to her. They haven’t given any constructive feedback all season and last night they essentially attacked her because she tried to do something that wasn’t “safe”…well, boo-hoo, Randy and J-Lo!
Back to tonight and the group sing. Scotty and James paired up to sing Brad Paisley’s “Start a Band”…now why would these two sing a country hit? Because Scotty can’t sing any other genre, that’s why! It is my opinion that Scotty would be a better fit for Nashville Star than American Idol because Idol is a pop show and Scotty doesn’t do pop. On the other hand, James can (and DOES) do anything! He is definitely the best of Idol and deserves to not only make it into next week’s performance show, but he should be the last man standing when the Idol crown is passed in a couple of weeks.
Sticking with the country duet theme, the remaining Idol ladies did their thing with “Gun Powder and Lead” by Miranda Lambert. Again, what’s the deal with the country songs? Lauren can certainly sing other genres, right?! Oh did I miss the memo that said Idol has gone country?! Regardless of what did or didn’t happen, the girls did a passable job with the song…there seemed to be some screaming going on during the middle part, but who cares, it’s elimination night and there are more important things to consider tonight.
Nineteen minutes into the show, Ryan told Lauren that she is heading home this week…to be honored as one of the top three finalists! Congratulations, Lauren…and now the other three Idols are going to have to wait through some guest performances to learn their fate starting with a visit from Lady Gaga who did her “Something Crazy” song dressed in little more than leather undergarments and fishnet stockings.
The next guest star to hit the stage was Julio’s boy, Enrique…but I couldn’t be bothered to watch or listen, so you are on your own as to how he did.
After buzzing through the Ford music video, Ryan sat with the three Idols still wondering if they are going home for a short visit or for good…and were forced to watch yet another performance. This time it was Season 6 Idol winner, Jordin Sparks. Anyone remember who Jordin beat(boxed) to take the Idol crown way back when? If you guessed Blake, then you were right.
Again thru the magic of the FF button on my Comcast remote, I was able to get through not only Jordin’s performance and the ensuing commercials, but also Steven Tyler’s video…I just have to find out who is going home and who I will be forced to watch next week—aren’t you?!
Whether you are ready or not, here are more results…and you are not going to believe them because Hailey has just been told that she is safe! That’s right, after 5 straight girls went home early in the contest, the final two girls have outlasted all but one of the boys…but which boy would it be? Scotty or James? Unfortunately it is Scotty…can you believe it? I can’t and neither can anyone in the audience or at the judges table.
Once again the voters got it wrong. There is no way that Scotty deserves to be the last boy standing…and the worst part of it is that now we have to listen to the judges slobber all over Scotty for at least another week. Big bummer!
So your semi-finals are set and it’s going to be the Country Cousins and the Idol judges against Hailey…my vote (if I had one) is on Hailey.
Tune in next week to see how the Idols do after a visit home and all of the craziness that involves.
Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don’t have to…
Charlie
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Idol Worship - Four Idols Remain
It's the Final Four and that can only mean one thing...MAY MADNESS! The remaining four Idols--James, Hailey, Scotty, and Lauren will be mentored by pop icon, Lady Gaga as they sing songs that inspire them as well as those written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller--a couple of guys born during FDR's administration...his FIRST one! According to Ryan, these guys wrote every song known to man...or words to that affect.
James was the first Idol to toe the boards and kicked off the night with a song of inspiration from Journey (and Glee) called "Don't Stop Believin'". As James sat casually on the Idol staircase at the back of the stage, he implored the audience to get into the song and gave a shout out to Randy for it was Mr. Jackson who played Bass on this '80's hit...about four-thousand times (according to The Dawg!). When all was said and done, James sounded like he was in concert and the crowd cheered him like they wanted an encore--which will have to wait about three more performances. The judges gave him praise...and this time there was no advice needed for St. James is essentially turning this season into a race for second.
Going second tonight was Hailey who chose to sing Michael Jackson's "Earth Song"--a moving song that Hailey hopes to move you to cast your vote her way. Hailey started out sitting on a mini staircase (three steps) on center stage bathed in a single spot with fog drifting around her. As she hit the chorus, Hailey was joined by a choir entering from the back of the stage and then she unleashed her inner Janis Joplin and gave it all she had. When she wrapped her performance, the audience gave a rousing round of applause and the judges sat motionless...and then J-Lo gave her a scolding. While J-Lo gave the tongue lashing, Hailey gave her (and Randy when he started his rant) the "WTF" stare...and then defended herself. Steven stepped in and essentially agreed with Hailey saying "they're (J-Lo and Randy) wrong!" Funny how the judges wait until the final four to finally start giving some constructive feedback...or at least their version. I say, sit back and let the Idols do their thing...aka "Shut the (blank) up, J-Lo!"
Scotty went next and sang Alan Jackson's "Where Were You When the World Stop Turning"--an ode to the tragedy that occurred on September 11, 2001. Whether Scotty sings this song well or not, the judges would be committing professional suicide by saying anything negative about Scotty's performance...but I don't have to worry about that kind of backlash. The song is good and full of inspiration, but I didn't think Scotty did all that good tonight. What I want to know is why do they push the pop singers on Idol to go outside of their comfort zone, but they continue to give props to Scotty for singing the only genre he knows? I am SO OVER Scotty and the love affair the judges have going with him. I say challenge him to sing something that isn't a layup...even Carrie Underwood strayed from her Country roots a few times in route to being crowned Idol champ!
Rounding out the inspirational performances was Lauren who sang Martina McBride's "Build it Anyway"...a song she chose in dedication to her home area which has been devastated by tornadoes while she has been in Hollywood singing for your votes. Like Scotty, I doubt the judges will criticize anything about Lauren's performance and, I must admit, I liked it a lot better than Scotty's, but I still found it falling quite a bit short of James'. The judges all professed their love for Lauren--especially Steven who complimented everything about her right down to the buckles on her shoes.
And now for Round Two and the songs of Lieber and Stoller.
In a rare Idol twist, the Idol producers flipped the performance order and Hailey led off the second round. For her song choice she went with "I Who Have Nothing". As noted earlier, the Idols were mentored by none other than Lady Gaga who worked with Hailey to make the song and her performance special. Joined on stage by a full string section and looking ravishing in an off the shoulder number, Hailey employed the advice doled out by Gaga to hook the audience, but what about the judges. Oh SNAP! They gave her a Standing O! And before the crowd could settle down, J-Lo's screechy voice pierced the air and she basically took full credit for a very strong performance. Then Randy spent the next several minutes patting himself on the back, Hailey again gave the "WTF" stare. Where's Simon when you need him? Contrary to what you think, Randy and J-Lo, it's not about you.
Country boy Scotty selected "Young Blood" by the Coasters...WHAT?! A non-country tune?! Can this be happening? In his session with Gaga, she told him to "make love to the microphone"...oh DOUBLE SNAP! So what would Scotty do with Gaga's advice? Well, to start, he came out dressed like Howdy Doody and then he made his way through the crowd singing what amounted to a gimmick song. Can't wait to hear what the judges say about that lame-a$$ performance. Randy thought it completed two sides of a "Scotty Concert"--a show I will NOT be attending. What are these judges hearing that I'm not...I thought the song sucked, the performance was corny, and Scotty should be gone for picking such a terrible song at this point in the contest.
Singing in the penultimate position was Lauren who chose to sing "Trouble" as performed by Elvis back in the late '50s. I'm a huge Elvis fan, so I am looking forward to this performance. Looking like one of the Mandrell sisters at the Grand Ole Opry and surrounded by a couple of musicians on stage, Lauren started out strong, but then she got all funky...moving around the judges table and then back on the stage again. The judges again professed their love for the young Georgia native...and again, I was mystified because I thought it was underwhelming.
Before James could close the show, Ryan found Mike Stoller in the audience and chatted him up for a few minutes. Mike was thrilled to hear the songs he and his partner wrote being performed on TV's number one show.
Interview over and now it's time to watch James sing "Love Potion #9". While James was practicing his performance with Gaga, she stepped behind him and physically helped him wiggle his hips...what Gaga wants, Gaga gets! When it came time to perform for the audience (and your votes), it was obvious why the Idol producers messed with the order of performers. James absolutely crushed the song bringing out his inner Adam Lambert while moving around the stage and in the audience with pyrotechnics going off behind him. The judges praised him...I guess a broken clock is right two times a day, right?!
So who's going home tomorrow and who's going home to be honored by their hometowns this week? My prediction is Hailey is done for the season--I can't see her surviving J-Lo and Randy's harsh words...even though the worst performance of the night belongs to Scotty.
Tune in tomorrow to see who your votes save...until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to.
Charlie
James was the first Idol to toe the boards and kicked off the night with a song of inspiration from Journey (and Glee) called "Don't Stop Believin'". As James sat casually on the Idol staircase at the back of the stage, he implored the audience to get into the song and gave a shout out to Randy for it was Mr. Jackson who played Bass on this '80's hit...about four-thousand times (according to The Dawg!). When all was said and done, James sounded like he was in concert and the crowd cheered him like they wanted an encore--which will have to wait about three more performances. The judges gave him praise...and this time there was no advice needed for St. James is essentially turning this season into a race for second.
Going second tonight was Hailey who chose to sing Michael Jackson's "Earth Song"--a moving song that Hailey hopes to move you to cast your vote her way. Hailey started out sitting on a mini staircase (three steps) on center stage bathed in a single spot with fog drifting around her. As she hit the chorus, Hailey was joined by a choir entering from the back of the stage and then she unleashed her inner Janis Joplin and gave it all she had. When she wrapped her performance, the audience gave a rousing round of applause and the judges sat motionless...and then J-Lo gave her a scolding. While J-Lo gave the tongue lashing, Hailey gave her (and Randy when he started his rant) the "WTF" stare...and then defended herself. Steven stepped in and essentially agreed with Hailey saying "they're (J-Lo and Randy) wrong!" Funny how the judges wait until the final four to finally start giving some constructive feedback...or at least their version. I say, sit back and let the Idols do their thing...aka "Shut the (blank) up, J-Lo!"
Scotty went next and sang Alan Jackson's "Where Were You When the World Stop Turning"--an ode to the tragedy that occurred on September 11, 2001. Whether Scotty sings this song well or not, the judges would be committing professional suicide by saying anything negative about Scotty's performance...but I don't have to worry about that kind of backlash. The song is good and full of inspiration, but I didn't think Scotty did all that good tonight. What I want to know is why do they push the pop singers on Idol to go outside of their comfort zone, but they continue to give props to Scotty for singing the only genre he knows? I am SO OVER Scotty and the love affair the judges have going with him. I say challenge him to sing something that isn't a layup...even Carrie Underwood strayed from her Country roots a few times in route to being crowned Idol champ!
Rounding out the inspirational performances was Lauren who sang Martina McBride's "Build it Anyway"...a song she chose in dedication to her home area which has been devastated by tornadoes while she has been in Hollywood singing for your votes. Like Scotty, I doubt the judges will criticize anything about Lauren's performance and, I must admit, I liked it a lot better than Scotty's, but I still found it falling quite a bit short of James'. The judges all professed their love for Lauren--especially Steven who complimented everything about her right down to the buckles on her shoes.
And now for Round Two and the songs of Lieber and Stoller.
In a rare Idol twist, the Idol producers flipped the performance order and Hailey led off the second round. For her song choice she went with "I Who Have Nothing". As noted earlier, the Idols were mentored by none other than Lady Gaga who worked with Hailey to make the song and her performance special. Joined on stage by a full string section and looking ravishing in an off the shoulder number, Hailey employed the advice doled out by Gaga to hook the audience, but what about the judges. Oh SNAP! They gave her a Standing O! And before the crowd could settle down, J-Lo's screechy voice pierced the air and she basically took full credit for a very strong performance. Then Randy spent the next several minutes patting himself on the back, Hailey again gave the "WTF" stare. Where's Simon when you need him? Contrary to what you think, Randy and J-Lo, it's not about you.
Country boy Scotty selected "Young Blood" by the Coasters...WHAT?! A non-country tune?! Can this be happening? In his session with Gaga, she told him to "make love to the microphone"...oh DOUBLE SNAP! So what would Scotty do with Gaga's advice? Well, to start, he came out dressed like Howdy Doody and then he made his way through the crowd singing what amounted to a gimmick song. Can't wait to hear what the judges say about that lame-a$$ performance. Randy thought it completed two sides of a "Scotty Concert"--a show I will NOT be attending. What are these judges hearing that I'm not...I thought the song sucked, the performance was corny, and Scotty should be gone for picking such a terrible song at this point in the contest.
Singing in the penultimate position was Lauren who chose to sing "Trouble" as performed by Elvis back in the late '50s. I'm a huge Elvis fan, so I am looking forward to this performance. Looking like one of the Mandrell sisters at the Grand Ole Opry and surrounded by a couple of musicians on stage, Lauren started out strong, but then she got all funky...moving around the judges table and then back on the stage again. The judges again professed their love for the young Georgia native...and again, I was mystified because I thought it was underwhelming.
Before James could close the show, Ryan found Mike Stoller in the audience and chatted him up for a few minutes. Mike was thrilled to hear the songs he and his partner wrote being performed on TV's number one show.
Interview over and now it's time to watch James sing "Love Potion #9". While James was practicing his performance with Gaga, she stepped behind him and physically helped him wiggle his hips...what Gaga wants, Gaga gets! When it came time to perform for the audience (and your votes), it was obvious why the Idol producers messed with the order of performers. James absolutely crushed the song bringing out his inner Adam Lambert while moving around the stage and in the audience with pyrotechnics going off behind him. The judges praised him...I guess a broken clock is right two times a day, right?!
So who's going home tomorrow and who's going home to be honored by their hometowns this week? My prediction is Hailey is done for the season--I can't see her surviving J-Lo and Randy's harsh words...even though the worst performance of the night belongs to Scotty.
Tune in tomorrow to see who your votes save...until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to.
Charlie
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Idol Chatter - And then there were Four...but who went home?
Have you been wondering all day which of the five remaining Idol wannabes is going home a night after all five sang two songs with the hopes of convincing you to dial numbers assigned to them and keeping them in the show for at least another week? And now that you read that long winded question, did you forget what the question was? Are you re-reading it again? OK, enough questions, let's get on with the elimination show and what went down after all of your votes were totaled. At stake: a spot in the Idol Final Four! Woo-hoo!
Before jumping into the festivities, let me first remind you I predicted that it would be Jacob whose magic carpet ride will likely end tonight. Based on comments read since last night's show, I believe there are many who share that prediction. Now that we have that out of the way, let's start the show.
To kick things off on what has become shameless plug theatre, Ryan spent the first few minutes of the broadcast telling everyone about Steven Tyler's new tell-all book and letting us know that J-Lo would be performing her top hit on the show tonight...and then it was group sing time.
The five finalists performed a relatively underwhelming version of "Happy Together" a fairly tired song...you'd think that with all the crap the Idols have received over the years for song selection, the Idol producers would take a bit of their own advice and choose something a little more interesting. I guess it's the old Cobbler's son story...but with music substituted for shoes.
I'm not even going to waste your time writing about the weekly Ford music video...OK, I guess I did, but now I am going to FF through it.
For a little time wasting fun, the Idols were put on the spot with Chef Gordon Ramsay in the Hell's Kitchen kitchen and told to make an omelet in 10 minutes. None of the Idols seemed too comfortable over a hot burner--thankfully they can sing. Most of the egg dishes found their way into the waste bin; Lauren and Jacob were the only Idols to produce anything nearing edible by Chef Ramsay...and then we got the "to be continued..." What fun could the Idol producers have in store for us? We'll just have to wait...
And to help ease the pain of waiting, we were entertained by Country super group, Lady Antebellum. Now these guys can sing...whether you are a fan of the Country genre or not, their songs are sure to get your toes a-tappin'!
Remember a few paragraphs ago where I was talking about song choice? Well we were treated to a little behind the scenes fun with the Idols where we learned the process they use to select songs...not really, it was just a bit to kill time on Elimination night...
And speaking of Elimination night, it's time to dim the lights and learn some results starting with James. You know the drill--judges comments, a bit of video from super producer Jimmy Ivine, and then the voting results...or maybe not. Instead of safe or danger, James was told to start a group on the other side of the stage.
Lauren was next...and Ryan instructed her to stand on the near side of the stage. BTW: Jimmy predicted that Lauren would be in the B2 because she "pulled back on the melody" of Unchained Melody last night.
Before more results could be learned, Chef Ramsay put Jacob and Lauren through his patented blind taste test test--the same test he gives the wannabe head chefs on his Hell's Kitchen show. The Idols tasted beef (Jacob got it), Tofu (Lauren), and the tie-breaker was Hot Dog which the Southern girl got meaning she won the first ever Idol blind taste test...and a permanent place in the restaurant business...as a customer!
With Randy, Steven, and Ryan snacking on popcorn with the Idol audience, J-Lo performed her dance hit...confession: I didn't watch much of it, but what I saw I didn't like...call me salty!
Back to the results...and Jacob. For the record, Jimmy thought Jacob was off with both songs last night (ergo the reason I predicted he'd be going home), but Jimmy also said that Jacob had lost his confidence. And to add a bit more stress to his already shaky night, Jacob was asked to stand next to Lauren.
Then Ryan and Jimmy turned their attention to Hailey. Jimmy took exception with J-Lo who called him out last night on the advice that he gave Hailey on her first song last night (the Lady Gaga song), but Jimmy said Haiely came back like a Lioness and redeemed herself. Hailey was directed to make the long walk across the stage to be next to James.
Scotty was the final Idol to get the treatment. Jimmy complimented Scotty on a strong night (I half agree) and then Ryan pulled the old final 5 trick by first telling Scotty (the Body) that he was safe and then asking him to pick the other two Idols who were safe. Scotty refused, so Ryan walked him over to James and Hailey meaning that Lauren (by now sobbing) and Jacob (looking like he expected it) made up tonight's B2.
A quick commercial break (aided by the FF button) and then Ryan told Jacob that he was done dealing. But it was Lauren who shed the most tears. Jacob merely flashed a big smile, chatted with Ryan, and watched a video recap of his Idol journey.
And just like that we have our Final Four...James (the favorite), Hailey (the dark horse), Lauren (likely the next to go), and Scotty (the crush--Ryan's and the prime competition--James').
Tune in next week to see how what happens when the Idols chances of winning go up to at least 25%...until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
Before jumping into the festivities, let me first remind you I predicted that it would be Jacob whose magic carpet ride will likely end tonight. Based on comments read since last night's show, I believe there are many who share that prediction. Now that we have that out of the way, let's start the show.
To kick things off on what has become shameless plug theatre, Ryan spent the first few minutes of the broadcast telling everyone about Steven Tyler's new tell-all book and letting us know that J-Lo would be performing her top hit on the show tonight...and then it was group sing time.
The five finalists performed a relatively underwhelming version of "Happy Together" a fairly tired song...you'd think that with all the crap the Idols have received over the years for song selection, the Idol producers would take a bit of their own advice and choose something a little more interesting. I guess it's the old Cobbler's son story...but with music substituted for shoes.
I'm not even going to waste your time writing about the weekly Ford music video...OK, I guess I did, but now I am going to FF through it.
For a little time wasting fun, the Idols were put on the spot with Chef Gordon Ramsay in the Hell's Kitchen kitchen and told to make an omelet in 10 minutes. None of the Idols seemed too comfortable over a hot burner--thankfully they can sing. Most of the egg dishes found their way into the waste bin; Lauren and Jacob were the only Idols to produce anything nearing edible by Chef Ramsay...and then we got the "to be continued..." What fun could the Idol producers have in store for us? We'll just have to wait...
And to help ease the pain of waiting, we were entertained by Country super group, Lady Antebellum. Now these guys can sing...whether you are a fan of the Country genre or not, their songs are sure to get your toes a-tappin'!
Remember a few paragraphs ago where I was talking about song choice? Well we were treated to a little behind the scenes fun with the Idols where we learned the process they use to select songs...not really, it was just a bit to kill time on Elimination night...
And speaking of Elimination night, it's time to dim the lights and learn some results starting with James. You know the drill--judges comments, a bit of video from super producer Jimmy Ivine, and then the voting results...or maybe not. Instead of safe or danger, James was told to start a group on the other side of the stage.
Lauren was next...and Ryan instructed her to stand on the near side of the stage. BTW: Jimmy predicted that Lauren would be in the B2 because she "pulled back on the melody" of Unchained Melody last night.
Before more results could be learned, Chef Ramsay put Jacob and Lauren through his patented blind taste test test--the same test he gives the wannabe head chefs on his Hell's Kitchen show. The Idols tasted beef (Jacob got it), Tofu (Lauren), and the tie-breaker was Hot Dog which the Southern girl got meaning she won the first ever Idol blind taste test...and a permanent place in the restaurant business...as a customer!
With Randy, Steven, and Ryan snacking on popcorn with the Idol audience, J-Lo performed her dance hit...confession: I didn't watch much of it, but what I saw I didn't like...call me salty!
Back to the results...and Jacob. For the record, Jimmy thought Jacob was off with both songs last night (ergo the reason I predicted he'd be going home), but Jimmy also said that Jacob had lost his confidence. And to add a bit more stress to his already shaky night, Jacob was asked to stand next to Lauren.
Then Ryan and Jimmy turned their attention to Hailey. Jimmy took exception with J-Lo who called him out last night on the advice that he gave Hailey on her first song last night (the Lady Gaga song), but Jimmy said Haiely came back like a Lioness and redeemed herself. Hailey was directed to make the long walk across the stage to be next to James.
Scotty was the final Idol to get the treatment. Jimmy complimented Scotty on a strong night (I half agree) and then Ryan pulled the old final 5 trick by first telling Scotty (the Body) that he was safe and then asking him to pick the other two Idols who were safe. Scotty refused, so Ryan walked him over to James and Hailey meaning that Lauren (by now sobbing) and Jacob (looking like he expected it) made up tonight's B2.
A quick commercial break (aided by the FF button) and then Ryan told Jacob that he was done dealing. But it was Lauren who shed the most tears. Jacob merely flashed a big smile, chatted with Ryan, and watched a video recap of his Idol journey.
And just like that we have our Final Four...James (the favorite), Hailey (the dark horse), Lauren (likely the next to go), and Scotty (the crush--Ryan's and the prime competition--James').
Tune in next week to see how what happens when the Idols chances of winning go up to at least 25%...until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Idol Worship - The Top Five Deal You a Two-Fer
Oh are you in for a treat tonight. Not only are the remaining five Idols singing for your votes, their going to do it twice! That's right, tonight the Idols have two chances to make a good impression on you--the impressionable voters. Songs will be selected from the Groovy 60's and from the current charts.
As the Idols readied for their double duty, they were learned by Grammy Award winning artist, Sheryl Crow--the one-time backup singer to Michael Jackson and winner of "best lips on tour"...an unofficial award handed out in a ceremony not televised.
The first Idol to do their thing was James who chose "Closer to the Edge" by 30 Seconds to Mars...not that I have heard of the song or the group, but I believe this would be James' current song. Am I lame or what?! Don't answer. Regardless of whether I know or like the song, James is the King of Idol Performances...he had pyrotechnics, lasers, and lots of moving around the stage to distract anyone unfamiliar with the song. In the end he rocked it like he pretty much does every week. Steven and J-Lo said he is ready to tour. Randy cleared up any mystery about who 30 Seconds to Mars is--apparently it is Jared Leto's group...oh, yeah, now I get it?! Doesn't matter, James is awesome and deserves your votes, so start dialing...once the lines are open, of course.
After another tough results show, Jacob was ready to win you over with his take on the Jordin Sparks (with Chris Brown) hit, "No Air". To add a bit of difficulty, Jacob is going to sing both parts...Jordin's and Chris'. I thought Jacob started a bit high, but I guess it made sense especially when you consider he was standing in cloud-like fog. I wasn't overwhelmed by the performance, so I think Jacob is going to have to up his game a bit during the next round. J-Lo thought it was a good song choice, but Randy was the voice of reason telling Jacob that he shouldn't try to sing songs that were duets by people like Jordin and Chris...he wants Jacob to find his inner Luther--again! Steven pretty much looked bored and then encouraged Jacob to find his voice...again!
The next Idol wannabe to take on another former Idol winner song was Lauren who decided to try to emulate Carrie Underwood and her song "Flat on the Floor". Lauren employed my favorite fiddle player to help her get the Country Diva thing going...along with the Iron Cross hoops for earrings and assorted other distracting costumey things. I wasn't a big fan of the song or the performance, but the judges agreed it was the right song choice for her...I agree, but I still didn't like the song.
When Scotty's turn came up, he chose a Montgomery Gentry hit called "Gone". Scotty started his performance amongst the Idol audience members...much to their excitement. As he made his way to the stage and what appeared a pretty pedestrian performance, he turned and LEAPED toward the judges and pulled his best impression of Garth Brooks in concert. I've been pretty critical of Scotty the past few weeks, but I have to admit tonight was probably his best performance--again, I wasn't thrilled with the song choice...I just HAVE to believe there are better songs for these Idols to sing, but who knows; and who cares, right? Steven said "tonight, you danced with the Devil" and meant it as a compliment.
The final Idol to do their thing during round 1 was Hailey who sang "You and I" by Lady Gaga...a song that, according to Sheryl Crow, hasn't even been released yet. Interesting...let's see how she does. For starters, Hailey was relaxing on the Idol stairs in sparkly gray, skin-tight pants and a leather vest--looking quite Rocker-chic. As for her performance, next to James, she was my favorite of this round. J-Lo didn't agree with me; she thought it was a bad idea to chose an unknown song...who cares--she rocked it! Randy thought it was a risky song choice. Steven agreed it was risky, but he loved what she did with the song. Mixed results for sure.
For his 1960's song, James selected the Harry Nilsson "Without You" a song which brought out so much emotion in James during his mentoring session that he broke down and couldn't sing it. When he hit the stage, he stood with just his mike and was backed by a string section and grand piano. It was a moving performance, one filled with emotion and honesty. As he ended the song, tears started streaming down his cheeks and he was overcome with feelings that I think the judges, the audience, and the viewers could all feel. Randy had a hard time breaking through the applause to credit James with a great performance, though some of the notes fell flat. Randy said the Idol crown is "yours to lose". After the judges finished telling James how great and amazing he is, the camera pulled back revealing that James was standing on stage without his shoes! Just another thing to love about the resident Rocker!
Hoping for a better showing in Round 2, Jacob was encouraged to sing "Love Hurts" by Jimmy...and he was convinced it was the right thing to do when Sheryl sang the rock song with a much softer edge. With confidence Jacob sang the song accompanied by a harpist, three background singers, a trumpet, trombone, and saxophone. When he hit the chorus, the Gospel came out of him and he hit his stride...and, of course, he finished with a big ol' Jacob note! Steven loved the way Jacob delivered the song and J-Lo thought he brought it home.
Lauren chose one of Simon Cowell's favorite songs of all time, the Righteous Brothers "Unchained Melody"--which, according to Lauren, is her parent's song (in case you were wondering). Dressed in a white and teal prom dress and accompanied on stage by a piano player, Lauren gazed longingly into the camera and put her little Georgia twang to the song. I was kind of liking it until she got to the first bridge, but then I kind of wasn't liking it. Oh wait, she's back...no, maybe not. Whoever did the arrangement on that song did a terrible job. J-Lo said "nothing to judge"...what does that mean? The rest of the comments were pretty much missing in action.
Scotty the Body chose Elvis' "Always on My Mind" which you may know better as a Willie Nelson song...did you know that there are over 300 covers of this song including a very successful one by the Pet Shop Boys? Well you do now. As you digest that helpful knowledge, let's check in with Scotty who delivered a less than convincing performance--in my opinion. The judges, of course, threw themselves at him starting with J-Lo who stepped on Randy's time to talk to gush over him. I guess with Stefano gone, she has found her new boy-toy.
The final performance of the night is being delivered by Hailey who chose "House of the Rising Sun" by the Animals. Sheryl encouraged her to start the song a capella; which she did (and quite well, in my opinion). When the band joined in on the fun, Hailey stepped down from the stool on which she was seated and made her way to center stage amongst the fog and psychedelic lighting. As she hit the final big note of her performance, she looked into the camera, gave a rye smile, and then watched as the judges gave her a standing ovation. Randy then gave out the award for the "performance of the night" to Hailey.
And just like the ten performances are over and it's your turn to decide who stays and who goes. My guess is that Jacob's time on Idol has come to an end after a less than stellar first song.
Tune in tomorrow to see who your votes send home. Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
As the Idols readied for their double duty, they were learned by Grammy Award winning artist, Sheryl Crow--the one-time backup singer to Michael Jackson and winner of "best lips on tour"...an unofficial award handed out in a ceremony not televised.
The first Idol to do their thing was James who chose "Closer to the Edge" by 30 Seconds to Mars...not that I have heard of the song or the group, but I believe this would be James' current song. Am I lame or what?! Don't answer. Regardless of whether I know or like the song, James is the King of Idol Performances...he had pyrotechnics, lasers, and lots of moving around the stage to distract anyone unfamiliar with the song. In the end he rocked it like he pretty much does every week. Steven and J-Lo said he is ready to tour. Randy cleared up any mystery about who 30 Seconds to Mars is--apparently it is Jared Leto's group...oh, yeah, now I get it?! Doesn't matter, James is awesome and deserves your votes, so start dialing...once the lines are open, of course.
After another tough results show, Jacob was ready to win you over with his take on the Jordin Sparks (with Chris Brown) hit, "No Air". To add a bit of difficulty, Jacob is going to sing both parts...Jordin's and Chris'. I thought Jacob started a bit high, but I guess it made sense especially when you consider he was standing in cloud-like fog. I wasn't overwhelmed by the performance, so I think Jacob is going to have to up his game a bit during the next round. J-Lo thought it was a good song choice, but Randy was the voice of reason telling Jacob that he shouldn't try to sing songs that were duets by people like Jordin and Chris...he wants Jacob to find his inner Luther--again! Steven pretty much looked bored and then encouraged Jacob to find his voice...again!
The next Idol wannabe to take on another former Idol winner song was Lauren who decided to try to emulate Carrie Underwood and her song "Flat on the Floor". Lauren employed my favorite fiddle player to help her get the Country Diva thing going...along with the Iron Cross hoops for earrings and assorted other distracting costumey things. I wasn't a big fan of the song or the performance, but the judges agreed it was the right song choice for her...I agree, but I still didn't like the song.
When Scotty's turn came up, he chose a Montgomery Gentry hit called "Gone". Scotty started his performance amongst the Idol audience members...much to their excitement. As he made his way to the stage and what appeared a pretty pedestrian performance, he turned and LEAPED toward the judges and pulled his best impression of Garth Brooks in concert. I've been pretty critical of Scotty the past few weeks, but I have to admit tonight was probably his best performance--again, I wasn't thrilled with the song choice...I just HAVE to believe there are better songs for these Idols to sing, but who knows; and who cares, right? Steven said "tonight, you danced with the Devil" and meant it as a compliment.
The final Idol to do their thing during round 1 was Hailey who sang "You and I" by Lady Gaga...a song that, according to Sheryl Crow, hasn't even been released yet. Interesting...let's see how she does. For starters, Hailey was relaxing on the Idol stairs in sparkly gray, skin-tight pants and a leather vest--looking quite Rocker-chic. As for her performance, next to James, she was my favorite of this round. J-Lo didn't agree with me; she thought it was a bad idea to chose an unknown song...who cares--she rocked it! Randy thought it was a risky song choice. Steven agreed it was risky, but he loved what she did with the song. Mixed results for sure.
For his 1960's song, James selected the Harry Nilsson "Without You" a song which brought out so much emotion in James during his mentoring session that he broke down and couldn't sing it. When he hit the stage, he stood with just his mike and was backed by a string section and grand piano. It was a moving performance, one filled with emotion and honesty. As he ended the song, tears started streaming down his cheeks and he was overcome with feelings that I think the judges, the audience, and the viewers could all feel. Randy had a hard time breaking through the applause to credit James with a great performance, though some of the notes fell flat. Randy said the Idol crown is "yours to lose". After the judges finished telling James how great and amazing he is, the camera pulled back revealing that James was standing on stage without his shoes! Just another thing to love about the resident Rocker!
Hoping for a better showing in Round 2, Jacob was encouraged to sing "Love Hurts" by Jimmy...and he was convinced it was the right thing to do when Sheryl sang the rock song with a much softer edge. With confidence Jacob sang the song accompanied by a harpist, three background singers, a trumpet, trombone, and saxophone. When he hit the chorus, the Gospel came out of him and he hit his stride...and, of course, he finished with a big ol' Jacob note! Steven loved the way Jacob delivered the song and J-Lo thought he brought it home.
Lauren chose one of Simon Cowell's favorite songs of all time, the Righteous Brothers "Unchained Melody"--which, according to Lauren, is her parent's song (in case you were wondering). Dressed in a white and teal prom dress and accompanied on stage by a piano player, Lauren gazed longingly into the camera and put her little Georgia twang to the song. I was kind of liking it until she got to the first bridge, but then I kind of wasn't liking it. Oh wait, she's back...no, maybe not. Whoever did the arrangement on that song did a terrible job. J-Lo said "nothing to judge"...what does that mean? The rest of the comments were pretty much missing in action.
Scotty the Body chose Elvis' "Always on My Mind" which you may know better as a Willie Nelson song...did you know that there are over 300 covers of this song including a very successful one by the Pet Shop Boys? Well you do now. As you digest that helpful knowledge, let's check in with Scotty who delivered a less than convincing performance--in my opinion. The judges, of course, threw themselves at him starting with J-Lo who stepped on Randy's time to talk to gush over him. I guess with Stefano gone, she has found her new boy-toy.
The final performance of the night is being delivered by Hailey who chose "House of the Rising Sun" by the Animals. Sheryl encouraged her to start the song a capella; which she did (and quite well, in my opinion). When the band joined in on the fun, Hailey stepped down from the stool on which she was seated and made her way to center stage amongst the fog and psychedelic lighting. As she hit the final big note of her performance, she looked into the camera, gave a rye smile, and then watched as the judges gave her a standing ovation. Randy then gave out the award for the "performance of the night" to Hailey.
And just like the ten performances are over and it's your turn to decide who stays and who goes. My guess is that Jacob's time on Idol has come to an end after a less than stellar first song.
Tune in tomorrow to see who your votes send home. Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Idol Chatter - Someone's Going Home
Last night the six remaining Idols sang the songs of Carole King; tonight those same six Idols will face the music and of them will be unceremoniously kicked to the curb. Ryan just hinted that tonight's elimination will hold some sort of surprise--so if you didn't cast your vote for your favorite last night, then you may not be all too happy with tonight's results.
Before kicking off the usual elimination night festivities, Ryan gave some props to judge Steven Tyler who graces the cover of the current Rolling Stone magazine as well as has a story in this week's People magazine. Is it my imagination or has Idol pretty turned into shameless plug TV?
Well, hold that thought because Idol sunk to yet another new low as they rolled tape of a British-themed pre-William and Kate wedding party in honor of the aforementioned Brit's upcoming nuptials--which are set to start in about 4 hours.
Now that we have all of that tomfoolery out of the way it's time for the group sing which will feature a medley of Carole King penned ditty's including "Take Good Care of my Baby", "One Fine Day", "Go Away Little Girl", "It's Too Late"...seems there may be a theme here and I'm not talking about the common link being the writer. Do you think one of the two remaining female Idols is in trouble tonight? We'll have to keep watching (or rather, I will keep on watching) to find out what's up with the vote.
After the weekly Ford commercial, Ryan introduced last season's runner-up, Crystal Bowersox, to the stage to show the Idol wannabes how to woo the crowd. In case you're wondering, there is something noticeably different about the Crystal that millions of Idol fans grew to know and love last year...it's her grill! She got her snaggle tooth/teeth all fixed up and looks just dandy! Thankfully it didn't affect her singing voice or her ability to entertain the Idol audience.
At long last, it is time to find the person who's Idol ride ends tonight. The first Idol to learn their fate was Hailey. In a departure from past elimination shows from this season, we were treated to clips of the Idols performance from the last night, the judges comments (from last night), and Jimmy's (the producer) thoughts--he wonders if Hailey knows what kind of singer she wants to be which got a not-so-happy response from Hailey. But never fear, Hailey was safe and will sing again next week.
Scotty was next on the block and went through the same drill and was told to hang tight while Ryan invited Lauren to run the gauntlet. Like Scotty, Lauren was told to take a seat and wait while Casey stood on the stage under the glaring lights and relived last night's events. Casey made it three straight Idols to be told to hang on while the rest of the Idols are tortured by Ryan and the gang.
James took his turn on center stage and at long last we have a result...James is safe...the second such Idol (behind Hailey). Before James' behind could hit the couch cushion, Jacob made his way to Ryan's side and was refreshed on what went down last night--including that crazy outfit. Jacob was joined by the other four Idols who fate was still unknown...and before they could get comfortable standing next to Ryan, he sent Lauren back to the couches and left the three boys (Jacob, Scotty, and Casey) to wait out a performance by Bruno Mars to see which one has sung for your votes for the last time.
Back to the results...and Jacob is safe. It's down to Scotty and Casey....and the one going home is Casey. For the second time this season, Casey is sent packing by the Idol voters. I was bummed to hear Casey's name a second time, but the other Idols and judges looked even more bummed than me...and Scotty walked back to the couches looking like HE was the one sent home.
And just like that, we bid adieu to the very talented and quirky Casey Abrams. As he sang his way off the show, he made his way to the judges table, gave them hugs and kisses, worked his way through the crowd where he got up close and personal with his fans, and then ended his run on Idol with a group hug with his fellow Idol finalists.
Tune in next week when the five remaining Idols try to move one step closer to Idol immortality. Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
Before kicking off the usual elimination night festivities, Ryan gave some props to judge Steven Tyler who graces the cover of the current Rolling Stone magazine as well as has a story in this week's People magazine. Is it my imagination or has Idol pretty turned into shameless plug TV?
Well, hold that thought because Idol sunk to yet another new low as they rolled tape of a British-themed pre-William and Kate wedding party in honor of the aforementioned Brit's upcoming nuptials--which are set to start in about 4 hours.
Now that we have all of that tomfoolery out of the way it's time for the group sing which will feature a medley of Carole King penned ditty's including "Take Good Care of my Baby", "One Fine Day", "Go Away Little Girl", "It's Too Late"...seems there may be a theme here and I'm not talking about the common link being the writer. Do you think one of the two remaining female Idols is in trouble tonight? We'll have to keep watching (or rather, I will keep on watching) to find out what's up with the vote.
After the weekly Ford commercial, Ryan introduced last season's runner-up, Crystal Bowersox, to the stage to show the Idol wannabes how to woo the crowd. In case you're wondering, there is something noticeably different about the Crystal that millions of Idol fans grew to know and love last year...it's her grill! She got her snaggle tooth/teeth all fixed up and looks just dandy! Thankfully it didn't affect her singing voice or her ability to entertain the Idol audience.
At long last, it is time to find the person who's Idol ride ends tonight. The first Idol to learn their fate was Hailey. In a departure from past elimination shows from this season, we were treated to clips of the Idols performance from the last night, the judges comments (from last night), and Jimmy's (the producer) thoughts--he wonders if Hailey knows what kind of singer she wants to be which got a not-so-happy response from Hailey. But never fear, Hailey was safe and will sing again next week.
Scotty was next on the block and went through the same drill and was told to hang tight while Ryan invited Lauren to run the gauntlet. Like Scotty, Lauren was told to take a seat and wait while Casey stood on the stage under the glaring lights and relived last night's events. Casey made it three straight Idols to be told to hang on while the rest of the Idols are tortured by Ryan and the gang.
James took his turn on center stage and at long last we have a result...James is safe...the second such Idol (behind Hailey). Before James' behind could hit the couch cushion, Jacob made his way to Ryan's side and was refreshed on what went down last night--including that crazy outfit. Jacob was joined by the other four Idols who fate was still unknown...and before they could get comfortable standing next to Ryan, he sent Lauren back to the couches and left the three boys (Jacob, Scotty, and Casey) to wait out a performance by Bruno Mars to see which one has sung for your votes for the last time.
Back to the results...and Jacob is safe. It's down to Scotty and Casey....and the one going home is Casey. For the second time this season, Casey is sent packing by the Idol voters. I was bummed to hear Casey's name a second time, but the other Idols and judges looked even more bummed than me...and Scotty walked back to the couches looking like HE was the one sent home.
And just like that, we bid adieu to the very talented and quirky Casey Abrams. As he sang his way off the show, he made his way to the judges table, gave them hugs and kisses, worked his way through the crowd where he got up close and personal with his fans, and then ended his run on Idol with a group hug with his fellow Idol finalists.
Tune in next week when the five remaining Idols try to move one step closer to Idol immortality. Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Idol Worship - The Final Six Sing Songs Written by a King
Less than 24 hours after THE Season 10 American Idol--or at least the Season 10 Idol finalist who will make the biggest impact on the music industry sang on the elimination show on a certain dance contest, the remaining six Idols (a veritable six-pack of Idol wannabes) took to the stage to sing songs written by Carole King...assuring us of a selection of songs not only older than the Idols performing them, but potentially older than those same Idol's parents! I wonder how long it will be before one of the judges comments on a chosen Idol's song and how it doesn't fit their style...oh wait, that won't happen this year because the judges aren't there to offer any critique--whether relevant or not.
Anyway, back to that mystery Idol and her singing performance last night. Of course I am talking about Pia and the show was "Dancing With the Stars". Pia sounded...wait for it...AWESOME! She sounded so good, in fact, it prompted my good friend, Tom Bergeron, to query: "How did you get voted off that other show?!" The defense rests.
But that was last night, tonight it's up to the remaining six Idols to convince you to pick up the phone and cast your vote for them so they can live to sing another day. With that rather long-winded set up, let's check out how the Idols did with Ms. King's songs.
One other note that you may be interested in knowing about tonight's show: the Idols will be mentored by uber producer and hit maker, Kenneth Babyface Edmonds.
The first Idol to get the Babyface treatment was Jacob who chose to sing "Oh No, Not My Baby". I like Jacob (probably more than most), but I was a bit confused tonight--not by his song selection, but by his clothing choice! Jacob paired a canary yellow shirt, a purple and blue bow tie, with a light blue sweater, and a blue-plaid jacket. Very distracting, young Jacob! As for the song, Jacob got his scat n' groove on along with a group of musicians who joined him on stage. When he finished, the audience gave him a HUGE round of applause and the judges joined in on clapping. Steven complimented him on "shaking your tail feathers". Jacob seemed to perform well enough to stay out of the B3 for the second week in a row, but that decision isn't up to me...I don't vote! I know, shocking!
Following Jacob's strong performance was Georgia Peach, Lauren, who sang "Where You Lead". During her time with Jimmy (Producer) and Babyface, Lauren was visited by pop princess, Miley Cyrus, who gave Lauren some advice and instilled some confidence in her. Dressed in what looked like a dress that either got washed with a box of crayons or a bad tie-dye job and rockin' a pair of cowboy boots, Lauren worked the stage, her back up singers, the judges, and some lucky fans who was seated on the stage. I wasn't into the song, but her performance was certainly entertaining. J-Lo credited her with "pushing" which is hardly a critique...Randy thought it was a "safe and boring" song (I hear ya, Dawg!). As Steven rambled on about her voice cracking, tears welled up in her baby blues...Ryan called them tears of joy, but even Lauren couldn't explain them, so I'm not going to try.
Splitting up the solo performances, the Idol producers decided to pair the Idols for a non-judged song. The first duo to perform were Casey and Hailey who after some silly banter in a pre-taped video package sang one of Carole King's best known hits, "I Feel the Earth Move". I'm a big fan of Casey's, but in the early going of the song, I believe Hailey out sang him--her smokey, bluesy voice is perfectly suited to the song...but just as I write that last line, Casey started warming up and his grizzly growl really hit its stride...overall, a good pairing and a good performance. After the song, Steven pulled no punches in asking Casey "how much in love are you with Hailey?!" Oh, Steven, behave!
Back to the soloist and country crooner, Scotty (the Body as Ryan called him). This week, Scotty tried to switch things up a bit and went with "You've Got a Friend"...a romantic and non-country song. When Scotty started the song, I could tell it was going to be a snooze fest...and even halfway through when the assembled string section that flanked him on either side of the stage joined in on the song, it didn't help. It was a very sleepy performance and could mark the end of Scotty's Idol run. Boring! The crowd seemed to like it, though...and as Randy started with his comments, it was obvious that I was in the minority. Randy called the performance "flawless" and said that "Scotty is in it to win it". Steven and J-Lo piled on with the positive notes...what did you expect?
As I try to wake up from Scotty's performance (or lack thereof), I am looking forward to what the resident Rocker, James, has in store for his adoring fans. Turns out he's going to answer the musical question "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow"? During his time with Babyface and Jimmy, James pretty much blew the mentors away, so I have high hopes for a great performance on the Idol stage. Here we go...James and his electric guitar bathed in a back-lit spotlight and an a Capella start; then the rest of the band kicked in and I could swear I was watching a 1950's sock hop! Now THAT is a flawless performance, Randy! After James got the audience (and the judges) swaying in their seats, the judges readied their praise for him...and Steven went so far as to tell James and the rest of the Idol faithful that that song was the first one during which he made out with a girl! TMI, Steven! I repeat, BEHAVE, Steven! When it came time for Randy to do his thing, he said James not only had the performance of the night, but possibly the best performance of the past few months...and then predicted that James could very well win it all! We'll see, the Idol voters a fickle bunch, aren't you?!
Duet time again: Scotty and Lauren were set to do yet another song together--call it the Country Cousins and they were going to sing "Up On the Roof". Lauren lead off the song and it sounded a bit like a cat being swung around by its tail (or some I'm told), but when Scotty joined in, things settled down a bit and the country bumpkins did an OK job. But if I'm honest--and that's what you expect of me, so I don't want to disappoint, it was the second sleepy performance of the night for Scotty and I wasn't all that convinced that Lauren was that much better. J-Lo, who heard something different than I did, piled on the compliments...what am I missing?
In an effort to right the ship (at least for me), it was Casey's turn to take on a Carole King song. For his selection he chose "Hi De Ho" a song written by Ms. King, but made popular by Canadian 70's Rock/Jazz/Blues band, Blood, Sweat, & Tears. Casey arrived on stage dressed like the lost Blues Brother and scat n' scooted his way around the Idol stage and weaved his way around the brass band gathered on stage to help him deliver another strong performance--one that may rival that of Mr. James Durbin. Randy liked what he heard equated it to something he would hear walking down Bourbon Street in New Orleans. Steven talked about his scalp itching and J-Lo made some nonsense comments about wanting Casey to loosen up a bit--the last time she "attacked" an Idol for not moving enough, America booted Pia from the Idol stage...I hope history doesn't repeat itself because Casey deserves to stick around for a few more weeks.
The final solo performance was delivered by Hailey who chose "Beautiful" from Carole's album Tapestry. Before Hailey could sing her song, there was a technical issue with her in-ear thingies. When that issue was resolved, Hailey got right into the groove of the song. I wasn't thrilled with the arrangement of the song--there were too many time/tempo changes which broke the song up a bit more than I liked. But in the end, Hailey did a good job. As expected, Steven included the song's title in his comments...he's such a D-O-double G! Oh, if you think I am too hard on the judges for their lack of judging? Well, check out this little gem from J-Lo: "You have one of the best voices left in the contest"...really?! That's all you could muster?
While you ponder that comment, it's time for the final duet of the night brought to you by James and Jacob who sang "Into Something Good" a Herman and the Hermits song that has never been a favorite of mine. And for the first time in quite some time, Steven offered a less than flattering comment when he said "I don't know where you were going with that performance". Agreed, but at least they were having fun.
OK, all performances are over--solos and duets, it's time for you to vote and for me to predict how you are going to vote. I believe the Idols in trouble come tomorrow night's elimination show will be Scotty, Lauren, and Jacob (in spite of what I wrote earlier--call it the curse of going first). And the Idol going home...Lauren, although I think Scotty should pack his bags.
That's how it went down. Tune in tomorrow to see what happens when all of your votes are tabulated. Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
Anyway, back to that mystery Idol and her singing performance last night. Of course I am talking about Pia and the show was "Dancing With the Stars". Pia sounded...wait for it...AWESOME! She sounded so good, in fact, it prompted my good friend, Tom Bergeron, to query: "How did you get voted off that other show?!" The defense rests.
But that was last night, tonight it's up to the remaining six Idols to convince you to pick up the phone and cast your vote for them so they can live to sing another day. With that rather long-winded set up, let's check out how the Idols did with Ms. King's songs.
One other note that you may be interested in knowing about tonight's show: the Idols will be mentored by uber producer and hit maker, Kenneth Babyface Edmonds.
The first Idol to get the Babyface treatment was Jacob who chose to sing "Oh No, Not My Baby". I like Jacob (probably more than most), but I was a bit confused tonight--not by his song selection, but by his clothing choice! Jacob paired a canary yellow shirt, a purple and blue bow tie, with a light blue sweater, and a blue-plaid jacket. Very distracting, young Jacob! As for the song, Jacob got his scat n' groove on along with a group of musicians who joined him on stage. When he finished, the audience gave him a HUGE round of applause and the judges joined in on clapping. Steven complimented him on "shaking your tail feathers". Jacob seemed to perform well enough to stay out of the B3 for the second week in a row, but that decision isn't up to me...I don't vote! I know, shocking!
Following Jacob's strong performance was Georgia Peach, Lauren, who sang "Where You Lead". During her time with Jimmy (Producer) and Babyface, Lauren was visited by pop princess, Miley Cyrus, who gave Lauren some advice and instilled some confidence in her. Dressed in what looked like a dress that either got washed with a box of crayons or a bad tie-dye job and rockin' a pair of cowboy boots, Lauren worked the stage, her back up singers, the judges, and some lucky fans who was seated on the stage. I wasn't into the song, but her performance was certainly entertaining. J-Lo credited her with "pushing" which is hardly a critique...Randy thought it was a "safe and boring" song (I hear ya, Dawg!). As Steven rambled on about her voice cracking, tears welled up in her baby blues...Ryan called them tears of joy, but even Lauren couldn't explain them, so I'm not going to try.
Splitting up the solo performances, the Idol producers decided to pair the Idols for a non-judged song. The first duo to perform were Casey and Hailey who after some silly banter in a pre-taped video package sang one of Carole King's best known hits, "I Feel the Earth Move". I'm a big fan of Casey's, but in the early going of the song, I believe Hailey out sang him--her smokey, bluesy voice is perfectly suited to the song...but just as I write that last line, Casey started warming up and his grizzly growl really hit its stride...overall, a good pairing and a good performance. After the song, Steven pulled no punches in asking Casey "how much in love are you with Hailey?!" Oh, Steven, behave!
Back to the soloist and country crooner, Scotty (the Body as Ryan called him). This week, Scotty tried to switch things up a bit and went with "You've Got a Friend"...a romantic and non-country song. When Scotty started the song, I could tell it was going to be a snooze fest...and even halfway through when the assembled string section that flanked him on either side of the stage joined in on the song, it didn't help. It was a very sleepy performance and could mark the end of Scotty's Idol run. Boring! The crowd seemed to like it, though...and as Randy started with his comments, it was obvious that I was in the minority. Randy called the performance "flawless" and said that "Scotty is in it to win it". Steven and J-Lo piled on with the positive notes...what did you expect?
As I try to wake up from Scotty's performance (or lack thereof), I am looking forward to what the resident Rocker, James, has in store for his adoring fans. Turns out he's going to answer the musical question "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow"? During his time with Babyface and Jimmy, James pretty much blew the mentors away, so I have high hopes for a great performance on the Idol stage. Here we go...James and his electric guitar bathed in a back-lit spotlight and an a Capella start; then the rest of the band kicked in and I could swear I was watching a 1950's sock hop! Now THAT is a flawless performance, Randy! After James got the audience (and the judges) swaying in their seats, the judges readied their praise for him...and Steven went so far as to tell James and the rest of the Idol faithful that that song was the first one during which he made out with a girl! TMI, Steven! I repeat, BEHAVE, Steven! When it came time for Randy to do his thing, he said James not only had the performance of the night, but possibly the best performance of the past few months...and then predicted that James could very well win it all! We'll see, the Idol voters a fickle bunch, aren't you?!
Duet time again: Scotty and Lauren were set to do yet another song together--call it the Country Cousins and they were going to sing "Up On the Roof". Lauren lead off the song and it sounded a bit like a cat being swung around by its tail (or some I'm told), but when Scotty joined in, things settled down a bit and the country bumpkins did an OK job. But if I'm honest--and that's what you expect of me, so I don't want to disappoint, it was the second sleepy performance of the night for Scotty and I wasn't all that convinced that Lauren was that much better. J-Lo, who heard something different than I did, piled on the compliments...what am I missing?
In an effort to right the ship (at least for me), it was Casey's turn to take on a Carole King song. For his selection he chose "Hi De Ho" a song written by Ms. King, but made popular by Canadian 70's Rock/Jazz/Blues band, Blood, Sweat, & Tears. Casey arrived on stage dressed like the lost Blues Brother and scat n' scooted his way around the Idol stage and weaved his way around the brass band gathered on stage to help him deliver another strong performance--one that may rival that of Mr. James Durbin. Randy liked what he heard equated it to something he would hear walking down Bourbon Street in New Orleans. Steven talked about his scalp itching and J-Lo made some nonsense comments about wanting Casey to loosen up a bit--the last time she "attacked" an Idol for not moving enough, America booted Pia from the Idol stage...I hope history doesn't repeat itself because Casey deserves to stick around for a few more weeks.
The final solo performance was delivered by Hailey who chose "Beautiful" from Carole's album Tapestry. Before Hailey could sing her song, there was a technical issue with her in-ear thingies. When that issue was resolved, Hailey got right into the groove of the song. I wasn't thrilled with the arrangement of the song--there were too many time/tempo changes which broke the song up a bit more than I liked. But in the end, Hailey did a good job. As expected, Steven included the song's title in his comments...he's such a D-O-double G! Oh, if you think I am too hard on the judges for their lack of judging? Well, check out this little gem from J-Lo: "You have one of the best voices left in the contest"...really?! That's all you could muster?
While you ponder that comment, it's time for the final duet of the night brought to you by James and Jacob who sang "Into Something Good" a Herman and the Hermits song that has never been a favorite of mine. And for the first time in quite some time, Steven offered a less than flattering comment when he said "I don't know where you were going with that performance". Agreed, but at least they were having fun.
OK, all performances are over--solos and duets, it's time for you to vote and for me to predict how you are going to vote. I believe the Idols in trouble come tomorrow night's elimination show will be Scotty, Lauren, and Jacob (in spite of what I wrote earlier--call it the curse of going first). And the Idol going home...Lauren, although I think Scotty should pack his bags.
That's how it went down. Tune in tomorrow to see what happens when all of your votes are tabulated. Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Idol Thoughts - Someone's Going Home...was it your fav?
Now that last night's business is finally settled (blog-wise), it's time to turn our attention to the a Thursday night staple: Elimination Night and all that comes with an evening of voting results.
On tonight's show we are promised a visit from a former Idol and a current pop star sure to make a scene on the Idol stage. But before inviting those "has beens" to the stage, it was time for another Idol group sing. Tonight's first entry was Train's "Hey Soul Sister" which was performed by Jacob, Lauren, Haley, and Stefano who did a nice job singing, but the choreography left quite a bit to be desired.
After a commercial break and a look at this week's Ford commercial, we were back to the couches where the four Idols and Ryan sat while the remaining three Idols (James, Casey, and Scotty) belted out their version of Coldplay's "Viva La Vida" and did it quite well--event Scotty who probably never heard that there song played on his country radio!...oh, I'm just joking! Don't get all you know what on me!
OK, group sings over and time for some voting results. First up, Casey and Jacob who were NOT asked to move to center stage, but learned their fate standing in the couch area. After Ryan finished recapping last night's events, Ryan asked Casey to sit down and Jacob to make the long walk across the stage to the B3 stools.
Upon returning from a break, we were treated to a performance by Season 7 Idol, David Cook who hasn't lost a bit of the growl that helped him win the Battle of the David's three short seasons ago. David was on the show performing his new single, "The Last Goodbye" for all of the fans who voted for him during his season as well as those of us who enjoyed his clever interpretations of well-known hits such as Lionel Richie's "Hello"--remember that one? Good stuff. The real highlight of David's time on stage was his introducing his mother who was in the audience to Steven Tyler--not awkward! But who cares...it was a once in a lifetime opportunity for an obvious Aerosmith groupie.
Former Idol shenanigans out of the way and now it's time to find out who is going to join Jacob on the stools.
Ryan instructed Lauren, James, and Stefano to join him on stage where he went through the same elimination night drill and then sent Stefano to the stools and Lauren and James to the safety of the couches where a very relieved Lauren gently pushed James.
The final two Idols, Scotty and Haley took their place on center stage and went through the same old process. After hearing about last night and a little chatting, Ryan announced that Scotty was safe ("Wow!"--Ryan's word) and it was Haley who was the third member of the B3. But before she could get comfortable on the last available stool, Ryan sent her to the couches leaving Jacob and Stefano to sweat it out while Katy Perry did her thing.
Katy hit the stage to sing "ET" off her new album. While an alien-dressed Katy entertained the audience, Kanye West provided some supporting rap. I wasn't over the moon for the song, but it's always fun to seek Mrs. Brand perform and Kanye is usually good for something unexpected--although tonight he was on his best behavior.
With all of the elimination night stuff over, it is finally time to learn who is going home. Will it be Jacob and his emotional singing style or will Stefano finally run out of lives? With the lights dimmed and all talk ceased, Ryan announced that Stefano is FINALLY GOING HOME! Can you believe it?! The audience was stone cold silent and Jennifer looked VERY upset because her boy-toy's run on Idol is over.
And just like that we are down to a six-pack of Idol wannabes. Tune in next week when the Idols perform one more time for your votes. Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
On tonight's show we are promised a visit from a former Idol and a current pop star sure to make a scene on the Idol stage. But before inviting those "has beens" to the stage, it was time for another Idol group sing. Tonight's first entry was Train's "Hey Soul Sister" which was performed by Jacob, Lauren, Haley, and Stefano who did a nice job singing, but the choreography left quite a bit to be desired.
After a commercial break and a look at this week's Ford commercial, we were back to the couches where the four Idols and Ryan sat while the remaining three Idols (James, Casey, and Scotty) belted out their version of Coldplay's "Viva La Vida" and did it quite well--event Scotty who probably never heard that there song played on his country radio!...oh, I'm just joking! Don't get all you know what on me!
OK, group sings over and time for some voting results. First up, Casey and Jacob who were NOT asked to move to center stage, but learned their fate standing in the couch area. After Ryan finished recapping last night's events, Ryan asked Casey to sit down and Jacob to make the long walk across the stage to the B3 stools.
Upon returning from a break, we were treated to a performance by Season 7 Idol, David Cook who hasn't lost a bit of the growl that helped him win the Battle of the David's three short seasons ago. David was on the show performing his new single, "The Last Goodbye" for all of the fans who voted for him during his season as well as those of us who enjoyed his clever interpretations of well-known hits such as Lionel Richie's "Hello"--remember that one? Good stuff. The real highlight of David's time on stage was his introducing his mother who was in the audience to Steven Tyler--not awkward! But who cares...it was a once in a lifetime opportunity for an obvious Aerosmith groupie.
Former Idol shenanigans out of the way and now it's time to find out who is going to join Jacob on the stools.
Ryan instructed Lauren, James, and Stefano to join him on stage where he went through the same elimination night drill and then sent Stefano to the stools and Lauren and James to the safety of the couches where a very relieved Lauren gently pushed James.
The final two Idols, Scotty and Haley took their place on center stage and went through the same old process. After hearing about last night and a little chatting, Ryan announced that Scotty was safe ("Wow!"--Ryan's word) and it was Haley who was the third member of the B3. But before she could get comfortable on the last available stool, Ryan sent her to the couches leaving Jacob and Stefano to sweat it out while Katy Perry did her thing.
Katy hit the stage to sing "ET" off her new album. While an alien-dressed Katy entertained the audience, Kanye West provided some supporting rap. I wasn't over the moon for the song, but it's always fun to seek Mrs. Brand perform and Kanye is usually good for something unexpected--although tonight he was on his best behavior.
With all of the elimination night stuff over, it is finally time to learn who is going home. Will it be Jacob and his emotional singing style or will Stefano finally run out of lives? With the lights dimmed and all talk ceased, Ryan announced that Stefano is FINALLY GOING HOME! Can you believe it?! The audience was stone cold silent and Jennifer looked VERY upset because her boy-toy's run on Idol is over.
And just like that we are down to a six-pack of Idol wannabes. Tune in next week when the Idols perform one more time for your votes. Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
Idol Chatter - Unfinished Business
When I posted my blog last night, I didn't realize that there were some very important thoughts that didn't make it...namely anything after Stefano and his lame dance moves. So to catch you up on what you may have missed last night, let's pick it up where Stefano got feedback from the judges...OK, ready to move on to the final Idol of the evening?
Lauren was the last Idol to sing last night and for her song she selected a Sara Evans song called "Born to Fly" which like Scotty's song choice was pretty bad. She sang fine and there's nothing better than a country fiddle, but overall I thought it was a pretty lightweight song. Lauren definitely is more tolerable than a couple of the other Idol contestants, but on just so.
And now for the bit which you are all waiting for--my B3. I predict that Scotty, Stefano, and Lauren will find themselves in danger come the elimination show (which just started here on the West Coast). And going home will be...Hailey! That's right, even Hailey isn't in my B3, the voters have gone away from my choices for B3 this season so why should tonight's elimination be any differnt?!
So check out the show or wait to read what I saw and heard...until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
Lauren was the last Idol to sing last night and for her song she selected a Sara Evans song called "Born to Fly" which like Scotty's song choice was pretty bad. She sang fine and there's nothing better than a country fiddle, but overall I thought it was a pretty lightweight song. Lauren definitely is more tolerable than a couple of the other Idol contestants, but on just so.
And now for the bit which you are all waiting for--my B3. I predict that Scotty, Stefano, and Lauren will find themselves in danger come the elimination show (which just started here on the West Coast). And going home will be...Hailey! That's right, even Hailey isn't in my B3, the voters have gone away from my choices for B3 this season so why should tonight's elimination be any differnt?!
So check out the show or wait to read what I saw and heard...until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Idol Worship - The Lucky 7 Sing for Votes
Once a week we gather in front of our TVs and watch as a diminishing number of Idol wannabes sing songs from eras gone by in the hopes that you will like them enough to spend time dialing toll-free numbers and casting your votes for them to get to the next week and another step closer to Idol immortality. Tonight is such a night. The remaining seven Idol wannabes are going to update their song selections as they have the opportunity to select songs from this century!
And in another twist, before the Idols had a chance to perform for you, Ryan brought out the six eliminated Idols to sing Pink's "So What"...and as has been the case all season, the group sing was a big hit! Randy said he missed the non-Idols and Steven went so far as to say that "America is probably re-thinking their voting".
The first Idol to try to justify his presence on the show was Scotty who opted to sing "Swingin'" by LeAnn Rimes. To help spice it up a bit the Idol producers added a little flash to the stage in the form of a brass quartet of trumpets, a trombone, and a tenor sax along with a couple of background singers. I tell you all of this because the song was AWFUL! He may be a good country singer, but I am SO BORED with him! Can we please have a double elimination--Scotty and Stefano? One can wish, right. And right on cue, the judges offered very little critique although J-Lo tried to pick on his song selection which was echoed by Randy. Someone needs to tell these judges that it is their job to deliver the hard news--where's Simon when you need him?!
Trying to get the ship back on course, James the Rocker broke out "Uprising" by Muse--a song I don't believe I have ever heard....which could spell trouble for him if the voters aren't familiar with the song. But to take my mind off of the fact that I don't know the song, James added his own flare by entering the arena with a small drum corps and dressed like a majorette complete with mic stand that he used to direct traffic and as a weapon to assault the crowd with a ROCKIN' GOOD TIME! Now that's what I call a performance! Didn't know the song, but probably enjoyed it more than if I did. Again the judges did little judging, but in this case I'm not sure they could offer him any advice beyond encouraging him to continue down the path of superstardom!
Now that we are back on track, what would Hailey do to keep the good times rollin'? For starters, she chose to sing "Rolling in the Deep" by Adele...I guess that's answered my question. Dressed in a red dress with white polka dots and seated on the catwalk behind the judges table, Hailey started strong and by the time she hit the chorus had her signature growl in full purr. The performance wasn't in James' category, but I thought she sounded good and definitely has a voice to sing these jazzy-pop songs. Randy agreed with me on her song selection and the type of song she should record post-Idol. The rest of the judge's comments were pretty pedestrian--they should return the paycheck!
With a couple of strong performances in the can, it's time for Jacob to join the party. Jacob decided to honor one of the great R&B singers of all time, Luther Vandross--whose birthday it happens to be today...I'm sure he is celebrating in Rock n' Roll heaven with all of the other great artists who left our mortal earth too soon. The song Jacob chose is sure to bring the emotion out of our resident Gospel/R&B Idol--"Dance With My Father". As Jacob started, his voice caught on the first lyric and it was obvious he was going to fight his emotions for the remainder of the song. What started out shaky, ended with power and feeling. Luther was one of my favorites and I thought Jacob did him right. The judges gave so-so feedback; Randy tried to get critical by telling Jacob to throw caution to the wind and just "go for it!" BTW: Jacob said there was something wrong with the track in his ear piece, not emotion that caused him to stumble in the beginning. Interesting!
Up next, Casey who chose the Maroon 5 hit, "Harder to Breathe". Casey accompanied himself on the electric guitar and also was joined on stage by a bass and guitar player as well as some back up singers. As the song was winding down, Casey made the short walk down to the judge's table, stopped a few inches short of J-Lo, whispered the final lyrics to the song, and then planted a kiss on People's "Most Beautiful Woman". As expected, the judges offered little beyond a recap of what just happened....isn't that MY job?! The most exciting thing about the judges was Steven getting bleeped a number of times...and we didn't even get the benefit of hearing what he said, so what's the point.
Stefano decided to channel his inner Ne Yo and sang "Closer". As he made his way around the stage singing to all the adoring ladies (no doubt causing some jealous feelings to arise from J-Lo), Stefano added a few dance moves to his rep
And in another twist, before the Idols had a chance to perform for you, Ryan brought out the six eliminated Idols to sing Pink's "So What"...and as has been the case all season, the group sing was a big hit! Randy said he missed the non-Idols and Steven went so far as to say that "America is probably re-thinking their voting".
The first Idol to try to justify his presence on the show was Scotty who opted to sing "Swingin'" by LeAnn Rimes. To help spice it up a bit the Idol producers added a little flash to the stage in the form of a brass quartet of trumpets, a trombone, and a tenor sax along with a couple of background singers. I tell you all of this because the song was AWFUL! He may be a good country singer, but I am SO BORED with him! Can we please have a double elimination--Scotty and Stefano? One can wish, right. And right on cue, the judges offered very little critique although J-Lo tried to pick on his song selection which was echoed by Randy. Someone needs to tell these judges that it is their job to deliver the hard news--where's Simon when you need him?!
Trying to get the ship back on course, James the Rocker broke out "Uprising" by Muse--a song I don't believe I have ever heard....which could spell trouble for him if the voters aren't familiar with the song. But to take my mind off of the fact that I don't know the song, James added his own flare by entering the arena with a small drum corps and dressed like a majorette complete with mic stand that he used to direct traffic and as a weapon to assault the crowd with a ROCKIN' GOOD TIME! Now that's what I call a performance! Didn't know the song, but probably enjoyed it more than if I did. Again the judges did little judging, but in this case I'm not sure they could offer him any advice beyond encouraging him to continue down the path of superstardom!
Now that we are back on track, what would Hailey do to keep the good times rollin'? For starters, she chose to sing "Rolling in the Deep" by Adele...I guess that's answered my question. Dressed in a red dress with white polka dots and seated on the catwalk behind the judges table, Hailey started strong and by the time she hit the chorus had her signature growl in full purr. The performance wasn't in James' category, but I thought she sounded good and definitely has a voice to sing these jazzy-pop songs. Randy agreed with me on her song selection and the type of song she should record post-Idol. The rest of the judge's comments were pretty pedestrian--they should return the paycheck!
With a couple of strong performances in the can, it's time for Jacob to join the party. Jacob decided to honor one of the great R&B singers of all time, Luther Vandross--whose birthday it happens to be today...I'm sure he is celebrating in Rock n' Roll heaven with all of the other great artists who left our mortal earth too soon. The song Jacob chose is sure to bring the emotion out of our resident Gospel/R&B Idol--"Dance With My Father". As Jacob started, his voice caught on the first lyric and it was obvious he was going to fight his emotions for the remainder of the song. What started out shaky, ended with power and feeling. Luther was one of my favorites and I thought Jacob did him right. The judges gave so-so feedback; Randy tried to get critical by telling Jacob to throw caution to the wind and just "go for it!" BTW: Jacob said there was something wrong with the track in his ear piece, not emotion that caused him to stumble in the beginning. Interesting!
Up next, Casey who chose the Maroon 5 hit, "Harder to Breathe". Casey accompanied himself on the electric guitar and also was joined on stage by a bass and guitar player as well as some back up singers. As the song was winding down, Casey made the short walk down to the judge's table, stopped a few inches short of J-Lo, whispered the final lyrics to the song, and then planted a kiss on People's "Most Beautiful Woman". As expected, the judges offered little beyond a recap of what just happened....isn't that MY job?! The most exciting thing about the judges was Steven getting bleeped a number of times...and we didn't even get the benefit of hearing what he said, so what's the point.
Stefano decided to channel his inner Ne Yo and sang "Closer". As he made his way around the stage singing to all the adoring ladies (no doubt causing some jealous feelings to arise from J-Lo), Stefano added a few dance moves to his rep
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Idol Chatter - Someone's Going Home...Was it Your Fav?
Eight Idols sang for your votes last night, but by the time you finish reading this blog entry, there will only be seven invited to sing next week. Was your favorite one of them? Did America go rouge again and eliminate someone expected to contend for the crown? What happened on tonight's elimination show? Well, read on to learn all the details...
In what is fast becoming an elimination night tradition, Ryan introduced the Idols in various groupings and had them sing songs that were partial to their chosen singing style. First up were our country cousins, Scotty and Lauren who sang "American Honey" by Lady Antebellum. Scotty was definitely off tonight, but Lauren was spot on from the look to her sound.
The next Idol pairing to take the stage were Casey and Hailey who did a jazzy number, "Moanin'", and knocked it out of the ballpark--if you are into that kind of thing. If you don't grove on scat and be-bop, the song likely couldn't have ended soon enough. When the music stopped, the duo got a standing ovation from the studio audience including the Idol judges who were giving a rare elimination night opportunity to provide some feedback (very little).
With the crowd still buzzing from a great performance, Ryan invited the four singers (Casey, Hailey, Scotty, and Lauren) to the stage to begin the Idol version of musical chairs and sent Scotty to safety along with Lauren and Casey meaning Hailey was back in the B3.
As is the case on elimination night, the Idol producers are a wont to fill the time between voting results with idle filler and tonight they chose to invite a TV and movie icon to spend some time with the Idols. Rob Reiner talked with the Idols about movie night on Idol.
And while the Idols were buzzing from their chance encounter with the man affectionately known as "Meathead", Ryan introduced the original Idol, Kelly Clarkson who sang "Don't You Want to Stay a Little While" with Jason Aldean.
After a commercial break, we came back to reality and the final quartet of Idols yet to know their elimination night fate. Jacob, James, Paul, and Stefano consolidated forces to sing a Simon & Garfunkel medley and when they hit the final notes of "Mrs. Robinson", the cameras found former Idol finalist, Pia, in the audience who enthusiastically cheered on the four boys.
Then Ryan did his thing and sent James to safety and Stefano to the B3 which left Jacob and Paul to wonder which direction they were going...but they didn't have to wait long because Ryan quickly sent Paul to join Stefano and Hailey on the B3 stools.
With the B3 all set and Ryan hanging with a couple of old school R&B superstars (Anita Baker and Chaka Khan), Rhianna hit the stage to entertain everyone with a performance of "California King Bed".
The only thing left for Ryan to do now was to announce the Idol whose journey has ended. Ryan started by sending Hailey to safety meaning for the first time this season it will be a boy going home. Would it be Paul or Stefano? Well, we didn't have to wait long as Ryan sent Stefano to the couch and Paul home.
And just like that there are but seven Idols still in line for the Season 10 Idol crown.
Tune in next week to see how the Lucky 7 perform. Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
In what is fast becoming an elimination night tradition, Ryan introduced the Idols in various groupings and had them sing songs that were partial to their chosen singing style. First up were our country cousins, Scotty and Lauren who sang "American Honey" by Lady Antebellum. Scotty was definitely off tonight, but Lauren was spot on from the look to her sound.
The next Idol pairing to take the stage were Casey and Hailey who did a jazzy number, "Moanin'", and knocked it out of the ballpark--if you are into that kind of thing. If you don't grove on scat and be-bop, the song likely couldn't have ended soon enough. When the music stopped, the duo got a standing ovation from the studio audience including the Idol judges who were giving a rare elimination night opportunity to provide some feedback (very little).
With the crowd still buzzing from a great performance, Ryan invited the four singers (Casey, Hailey, Scotty, and Lauren) to the stage to begin the Idol version of musical chairs and sent Scotty to safety along with Lauren and Casey meaning Hailey was back in the B3.
As is the case on elimination night, the Idol producers are a wont to fill the time between voting results with idle filler and tonight they chose to invite a TV and movie icon to spend some time with the Idols. Rob Reiner talked with the Idols about movie night on Idol.
And while the Idols were buzzing from their chance encounter with the man affectionately known as "Meathead", Ryan introduced the original Idol, Kelly Clarkson who sang "Don't You Want to Stay a Little While" with Jason Aldean.
After a commercial break, we came back to reality and the final quartet of Idols yet to know their elimination night fate. Jacob, James, Paul, and Stefano consolidated forces to sing a Simon & Garfunkel medley and when they hit the final notes of "Mrs. Robinson", the cameras found former Idol finalist, Pia, in the audience who enthusiastically cheered on the four boys.
Then Ryan did his thing and sent James to safety and Stefano to the B3 which left Jacob and Paul to wonder which direction they were going...but they didn't have to wait long because Ryan quickly sent Paul to join Stefano and Hailey on the B3 stools.
With the B3 all set and Ryan hanging with a couple of old school R&B superstars (Anita Baker and Chaka Khan), Rhianna hit the stage to entertain everyone with a performance of "California King Bed".
The only thing left for Ryan to do now was to announce the Idol whose journey has ended. Ryan started by sending Hailey to safety meaning for the first time this season it will be a boy going home. Would it be Paul or Stefano? Well, we didn't have to wait long as Ryan sent Stefano to the couch and Paul home.
And just like that there are but seven Idols still in line for the Season 10 Idol crown.
Tune in next week to see how the Lucky 7 perform. Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Idol Worship - The Top 8 Sing
Less than one week after your votes--or lack there of, sent shock waves throughout the Idol world and arguably one of the best singers in Idol history home WAY too early, the remaining eight Idols toed the stage in an effort to win your votes and a chance to move one more step toward Idol immortality.
With the knowledge that no one has a free pass to next week, the Idols no doubt felt more pressure than ever before as they sang songs from the movies.
But before anyone did any singing, Ryan announced that one of the Idol judges had recently been named the most beautiful girl in the world--and it wasn't Randy or Steven. As if the Idol judges needed any more attention, we were informed that J-Lo is People magazine's pick for top beauty, girl category. Big-friggin'-deal! Let's hear some singing...or maybe you forgot this was a singing contest! I believe the voters have...so tonight it is your chance to get back into the game...vote for the best and let the rest go home!
Now that that is off my chest, let's check in with Paul who chose the Bob Seger classic, "Old Time Rock and Roll" made popular during a star-making performance by Tom Cruise in the '80's hit "Risky Business". Instead of rockin' a pair of tighty whiteys, Paul raided Porter Wagner's closet and donned a black suit with roses up the pants and sleeves and a red cravat to complete the look. It wasn't the best performance of Paul's Idol run, but that had more to do with my disdain for the song more so than Paul's styling. I know he isn't a favorite of the Idol faithful, but he knows how to work a stage. BTW: During the judges comments (all positive), Randy took a page out of my book and complemented Paul on his Porter Wagner get up...stop reading over my shoulder, Randy, and come up with something original on your own!
Fresh from a quick commercial break (I DVR everything, so commercials don't exist in Charlie's world!), Lauren went with Miley Cyrus' "The Climb" from the "Hannah Montana" soundtrack--a popular album for awhile in our household. As Lauren prepared for her performance, she was told that she could take advantage of Pia's dismissal by stealing her fans with tonight's performance. While that may have sounded like good advice, I am pretty sure Lauren and Pia have totally different audiences...at least it would seem a 16-year-old Country/Pop Princess from Georgia and a 22-year-old big-voiced Diva from Brooklyn would receive votes from exactly the opposite voting demographics. Overall the song was OK, but sounded pretty much karaoke...however the judges felt it was all that...and offered very little critique, just complements. What is going on with these judges this year? Have they provided any substance during their "judging" yet this season? I say no...
While you ponder that, let's check out what J-Lo Boy-Toy, Stefano, did with "End of the Road" by Boyz II Men from the Eddie Murphy smash hit, "Boomerang". During his coaching session, Stefano was told that he needs to wipe out last week's elimination of Pia (when it should have been him) because he has the chops to win this thing...WHAT? WAIT A MINUTE? Am I the only one who thinks this kid peaked during his audition? If it weren't for J-Lo slobbering over him ever week and a sure seat at the "vote for the worst" table, I don't think he would still be on the Idol stage singing for your votes. In fairness to a guy that I don't really dig, Stefano did a nice job with a great song. Randy started off the "judging" by going all J-Lo on him. Steven piled on and J-Lo did her normal creepy lovey-dovey with him and then said something that Idol had to bleep. Oh J-Lo, BEHAVE!
Country crooner, Scotty, went way back in the the movie archives with his original song selection by choosing "Everybody's Talking About Me" from "Midnight Cowboy" (the first X-Rated movie to win an Oscar), but Scotty switched courses and songs when he chose to go with George Strait's "I Cross Your Heart" from "Pure Country". I think he should have stayed with his first song, but Scotty obviously doesn't want to move even one inch from his comfort zone. And I think he paid the price as he turned in probably his worst performance of his Idol run. I thought the back up singers out sang him...but the judges felt otherwise. J-Lo said "I know the fans want us to be tough, but you guys are too good". My question: Why are they called judges if they aren't going to provide some feedback that will make them better? Another unanswerable question.
Casey went through his own song selection issues, initially selecting "Nature Boy" by Nat King Cole, then switching to Phil Collin's "In the Air Tonight" before going back to his first selection--against the advice of the Idol mentors. So with hair combed, beard trimmed, and courting his stand-up Bass, Casey hit the stage as the center piece of a jazz trio (piano on his right; bongos on his left) and did his thing to the cheers of the studio audience and the "judges"...even getting a standing "O" from the three chair warmers followed by screams of "Encore!" from Steven. I won't bore you with what the judges said because it really doesn't matter...they seem to love everyone and everything now that Pia is gone! Bitter much, you ask...EXACTLY! I love me some Casey and think this was the performance of the night (so far), but I would really enjoy it if the "judges" would provide some commentary that is more that simply unbridled love and butterflies.
The other remaining girl in the competition, Hailey, was next and chose "Call Me" by Blondie from the "American Gigolo" soundtrack as her vote getting song for the night. Dressed in micro-mini that resembled the Partridge Family bus and knee high purple go-go boots, Hailey set the stage a blaze in an effort to stay out of the B3. Hailey looked quite comfortable moving around the stage and around the judges on the Idol cat walk. But what would the judges think? Oddly enough Randy started out trying to provide a bit of constructive feedback which was met with boos from the audience. He made a point about how this wasn't really a great song to showcase her talents. J-Lo wanted to go down the same path, but thought better of it when she realized that there are but 2 girls left on the show. So as quickly as the judging began, it ended just a quick.
Jacob, the other survivor from last week's B3 (Stefano was also rescued as you recall), chose "The Impossible Dream", but that didn't go over well with the mentors who talked him into performing "Bridge Over Troubled Waters" by Simon and Garfunkel and from the "Pursuit of Happyness" soundtrack. Jacob called on his Gospel background to add a level of soul S&G didn't have in the original (which is one of the GREAT songs of the 20th century). I liked Jacob's interpretation and felt he showed great restraint when it would have been easy to let loose with his patented church choir background. The "judges" were back to heaping praise on an Idol--but this time I thought it was well-deserved.
The final performance of the night was turned in by James--the resident rocker who selected "Heavy Metal" the title track from the animated rock n' roll classic that was originally sung by the Red Rocker, Sammy Hagar. The mentors weren't convinced that this was the best song choice for James, but he did his best to defend his decision and hit the stage with the goal of proving them wrong and winning your votes. James hit the stage along with Ozzy Osbourne's guitar player, Zach Wylde, and proceeded to rock the song that they said he couldn't. As he let out the final screams at the 90th second, the "judges" clapped above their heads, implored the audience to "give it up", and watched James move around the stage returning the love he was receiving from his adoring fans. No "judges" comments worth noting, but let it be known that James was a hit.
As I reflect on the eight performances of the evening, I am compelled to select my B3 which should be made up of Stefano, Scotty, and Lauren. They all received high praise from the "judges", but didn't impress me tonight.
Tune in tomorrow to see who is in danger and who has performed as an Idol finalist for the last time.
Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
With the knowledge that no one has a free pass to next week, the Idols no doubt felt more pressure than ever before as they sang songs from the movies.
But before anyone did any singing, Ryan announced that one of the Idol judges had recently been named the most beautiful girl in the world--and it wasn't Randy or Steven. As if the Idol judges needed any more attention, we were informed that J-Lo is People magazine's pick for top beauty, girl category. Big-friggin'-deal! Let's hear some singing...or maybe you forgot this was a singing contest! I believe the voters have...so tonight it is your chance to get back into the game...vote for the best and let the rest go home!
Now that that is off my chest, let's check in with Paul who chose the Bob Seger classic, "Old Time Rock and Roll" made popular during a star-making performance by Tom Cruise in the '80's hit "Risky Business". Instead of rockin' a pair of tighty whiteys, Paul raided Porter Wagner's closet and donned a black suit with roses up the pants and sleeves and a red cravat to complete the look. It wasn't the best performance of Paul's Idol run, but that had more to do with my disdain for the song more so than Paul's styling. I know he isn't a favorite of the Idol faithful, but he knows how to work a stage. BTW: During the judges comments (all positive), Randy took a page out of my book and complemented Paul on his Porter Wagner get up...stop reading over my shoulder, Randy, and come up with something original on your own!
Fresh from a quick commercial break (I DVR everything, so commercials don't exist in Charlie's world!), Lauren went with Miley Cyrus' "The Climb" from the "Hannah Montana" soundtrack--a popular album for awhile in our household. As Lauren prepared for her performance, she was told that she could take advantage of Pia's dismissal by stealing her fans with tonight's performance. While that may have sounded like good advice, I am pretty sure Lauren and Pia have totally different audiences...at least it would seem a 16-year-old Country/Pop Princess from Georgia and a 22-year-old big-voiced Diva from Brooklyn would receive votes from exactly the opposite voting demographics. Overall the song was OK, but sounded pretty much karaoke...however the judges felt it was all that...and offered very little critique, just complements. What is going on with these judges this year? Have they provided any substance during their "judging" yet this season? I say no...
While you ponder that, let's check out what J-Lo Boy-Toy, Stefano, did with "End of the Road" by Boyz II Men from the Eddie Murphy smash hit, "Boomerang". During his coaching session, Stefano was told that he needs to wipe out last week's elimination of Pia (when it should have been him) because he has the chops to win this thing...WHAT? WAIT A MINUTE? Am I the only one who thinks this kid peaked during his audition? If it weren't for J-Lo slobbering over him ever week and a sure seat at the "vote for the worst" table, I don't think he would still be on the Idol stage singing for your votes. In fairness to a guy that I don't really dig, Stefano did a nice job with a great song. Randy started off the "judging" by going all J-Lo on him. Steven piled on and J-Lo did her normal creepy lovey-dovey with him and then said something that Idol had to bleep. Oh J-Lo, BEHAVE!
Country crooner, Scotty, went way back in the the movie archives with his original song selection by choosing "Everybody's Talking About Me" from "Midnight Cowboy" (the first X-Rated movie to win an Oscar), but Scotty switched courses and songs when he chose to go with George Strait's "I Cross Your Heart" from "Pure Country". I think he should have stayed with his first song, but Scotty obviously doesn't want to move even one inch from his comfort zone. And I think he paid the price as he turned in probably his worst performance of his Idol run. I thought the back up singers out sang him...but the judges felt otherwise. J-Lo said "I know the fans want us to be tough, but you guys are too good". My question: Why are they called judges if they aren't going to provide some feedback that will make them better? Another unanswerable question.
Casey went through his own song selection issues, initially selecting "Nature Boy" by Nat King Cole, then switching to Phil Collin's "In the Air Tonight" before going back to his first selection--against the advice of the Idol mentors. So with hair combed, beard trimmed, and courting his stand-up Bass, Casey hit the stage as the center piece of a jazz trio (piano on his right; bongos on his left) and did his thing to the cheers of the studio audience and the "judges"...even getting a standing "O" from the three chair warmers followed by screams of "Encore!" from Steven. I won't bore you with what the judges said because it really doesn't matter...they seem to love everyone and everything now that Pia is gone! Bitter much, you ask...EXACTLY! I love me some Casey and think this was the performance of the night (so far), but I would really enjoy it if the "judges" would provide some commentary that is more that simply unbridled love and butterflies.
The other remaining girl in the competition, Hailey, was next and chose "Call Me" by Blondie from the "American Gigolo" soundtrack as her vote getting song for the night. Dressed in micro-mini that resembled the Partridge Family bus and knee high purple go-go boots, Hailey set the stage a blaze in an effort to stay out of the B3. Hailey looked quite comfortable moving around the stage and around the judges on the Idol cat walk. But what would the judges think? Oddly enough Randy started out trying to provide a bit of constructive feedback which was met with boos from the audience. He made a point about how this wasn't really a great song to showcase her talents. J-Lo wanted to go down the same path, but thought better of it when she realized that there are but 2 girls left on the show. So as quickly as the judging began, it ended just a quick.
Jacob, the other survivor from last week's B3 (Stefano was also rescued as you recall), chose "The Impossible Dream", but that didn't go over well with the mentors who talked him into performing "Bridge Over Troubled Waters" by Simon and Garfunkel and from the "Pursuit of Happyness" soundtrack. Jacob called on his Gospel background to add a level of soul S&G didn't have in the original (which is one of the GREAT songs of the 20th century). I liked Jacob's interpretation and felt he showed great restraint when it would have been easy to let loose with his patented church choir background. The "judges" were back to heaping praise on an Idol--but this time I thought it was well-deserved.
The final performance of the night was turned in by James--the resident rocker who selected "Heavy Metal" the title track from the animated rock n' roll classic that was originally sung by the Red Rocker, Sammy Hagar. The mentors weren't convinced that this was the best song choice for James, but he did his best to defend his decision and hit the stage with the goal of proving them wrong and winning your votes. James hit the stage along with Ozzy Osbourne's guitar player, Zach Wylde, and proceeded to rock the song that they said he couldn't. As he let out the final screams at the 90th second, the "judges" clapped above their heads, implored the audience to "give it up", and watched James move around the stage returning the love he was receiving from his adoring fans. No "judges" comments worth noting, but let it be known that James was a hit.
As I reflect on the eight performances of the evening, I am compelled to select my B3 which should be made up of Stefano, Scotty, and Lauren. They all received high praise from the "judges", but didn't impress me tonight.
Tune in tomorrow to see who is in danger and who has performed as an Idol finalist for the last time.
Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Idol Chatter - America Got it Wrong....AGAIN!
Do you remember a couple of weeks ago when the votes sent home an early season favorite only to be saved by the judges? Well, as you know, that judge's save can only be used once. So what would happen if America got it wrong a second time? What happens if your favorite garnered the fewest number of votes and the judges couldn't save them?
With that awful possibility in mind, let's check in on tonight's elimination show which kicked off with a Rock n' Roll medley group sing consisting of hits from the 60's, 70's, and 80's and included a visit to the Idol set by British comedian Russell Brand (aka Mr. Katy Perry) who provided some guidance on stage presence...blah, blah, blah.
After Russell departed the scene, the night followed the same tired formula of just about every other Elimination night. Ryan called up groups of Idols, ran through the previous night's activities, comments, and other miscellaneous stuff before sending some to safety and the others to the Bottom 3.
The first group was made up of Casey, Stefano, and Lauren....and the one member of that group in the B3 was Stefano--sorry, J-Lo, your boy is in trouble.
While Stefano waited to see who was going to join him in the B3, we were treated to a performance by former Idol finalist, Constantine Maroulis, who sang the Righteous Bros. hit "Unchained Melody". Exhibiting the same smoldering appeal that kept the ladies voting for him week after week so many seasons ago, Constantine did a nice job of easing the tension on a night when you just knew something strange was in the air.
After a video of Gwen Stefani helping the Idol girls get stylized for last night's Rock n' Roll fest rolled, Ryan asked Paul, Pia, and Scotty to join him on center stage. As Ryan ran through the usual stuff, the judges looked oddly serene--something is definitely up tonight. When all was said and done, Ryan sent Pia to the B3 and the Idol world in total SHOCK! What is America thinking? The audience didn't care for the news nor did the judges, Pia's parents, or ME! I am in bitter disbelief that one of the best singers in Idol history is in danger of going home!
The final group of three, James, Hailey, and Jacob walked to center stage and learned that James and Hailey were safe meaning Jacob is the final member of the B3.
After Ryan recapped the members of the B3, he reminded the audience that if they were unhappy with the results of the vote, they only have themselves to blame. And then he introduced Rock n' Roll legend Iggy Pop who threw himself around the stage singing "Wild One" sans shirt. It was a very creepy vision, so I really envy those of you for whom I watch TV because you did NOT want to see what I just witnessed--a past-middle aged man with man-boobs!
And with that image burned into your minds (and my retinas), Ryan went about the job of dealing the cruelest cut of the young season sending Pia home and Stefano and Jacob back to the couches. As the audience booed and the judges buried their heads, Pia kept it together and showed great composure as J-Lo lost her cool saying she was in shock and angry. Steven said that America showed a lack of passion by not voting for an Idol who he said "is beautiful and sings like a bird".
While I agree with the judges sentiments, I also think they deserve to take some of the blame. Pia is, as noted earlier, one of the best in Idol history, but it couldn't have helped her cause when week after week J-Lo and Randy told her she needed to do more, sing up tempo, move more, etc. I put the blame for Pia's early departure squarely on the shoulders of those two judges--Steven is exempt because he rarely critiques the Idols beyond talking about how hot they are...both the girls AND boys!
Oh well, with Pia out of the way, the stage is wide open for the Idol crown. Tune in next week to find out which of the final 8 rises to the challenge. Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
With that awful possibility in mind, let's check in on tonight's elimination show which kicked off with a Rock n' Roll medley group sing consisting of hits from the 60's, 70's, and 80's and included a visit to the Idol set by British comedian Russell Brand (aka Mr. Katy Perry) who provided some guidance on stage presence...blah, blah, blah.
After Russell departed the scene, the night followed the same tired formula of just about every other Elimination night. Ryan called up groups of Idols, ran through the previous night's activities, comments, and other miscellaneous stuff before sending some to safety and the others to the Bottom 3.
The first group was made up of Casey, Stefano, and Lauren....and the one member of that group in the B3 was Stefano--sorry, J-Lo, your boy is in trouble.
While Stefano waited to see who was going to join him in the B3, we were treated to a performance by former Idol finalist, Constantine Maroulis, who sang the Righteous Bros. hit "Unchained Melody". Exhibiting the same smoldering appeal that kept the ladies voting for him week after week so many seasons ago, Constantine did a nice job of easing the tension on a night when you just knew something strange was in the air.
After a video of Gwen Stefani helping the Idol girls get stylized for last night's Rock n' Roll fest rolled, Ryan asked Paul, Pia, and Scotty to join him on center stage. As Ryan ran through the usual stuff, the judges looked oddly serene--something is definitely up tonight. When all was said and done, Ryan sent Pia to the B3 and the Idol world in total SHOCK! What is America thinking? The audience didn't care for the news nor did the judges, Pia's parents, or ME! I am in bitter disbelief that one of the best singers in Idol history is in danger of going home!
The final group of three, James, Hailey, and Jacob walked to center stage and learned that James and Hailey were safe meaning Jacob is the final member of the B3.
After Ryan recapped the members of the B3, he reminded the audience that if they were unhappy with the results of the vote, they only have themselves to blame. And then he introduced Rock n' Roll legend Iggy Pop who threw himself around the stage singing "Wild One" sans shirt. It was a very creepy vision, so I really envy those of you for whom I watch TV because you did NOT want to see what I just witnessed--a past-middle aged man with man-boobs!
And with that image burned into your minds (and my retinas), Ryan went about the job of dealing the cruelest cut of the young season sending Pia home and Stefano and Jacob back to the couches. As the audience booed and the judges buried their heads, Pia kept it together and showed great composure as J-Lo lost her cool saying she was in shock and angry. Steven said that America showed a lack of passion by not voting for an Idol who he said "is beautiful and sings like a bird".
While I agree with the judges sentiments, I also think they deserve to take some of the blame. Pia is, as noted earlier, one of the best in Idol history, but it couldn't have helped her cause when week after week J-Lo and Randy told her she needed to do more, sing up tempo, move more, etc. I put the blame for Pia's early departure squarely on the shoulders of those two judges--Steven is exempt because he rarely critiques the Idols beyond talking about how hot they are...both the girls AND boys!
Oh well, with Pia out of the way, the stage is wide open for the Idol crown. Tune in next week to find out which of the final 8 rises to the challenge. Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Idol Worship - The Final 9 Rock It Out!
Tonight the remaining 9 Idols took styling tips from Gwen Stefani, mentoring from will.i.am, and asked to do just one thing: ROCKED IT for 90 minutes (the length of tonight's show). The songs performed were chosen from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame catalogue--a veritable potpourri of musical choices.
First up on the Idol stage was Gospel singer Jacob who originally selected "Let's Get it On" by the great Marvin Gaye, but ultimately opted for Michael Jackson's "Man in the Mirror". Dressed in white from head to toe and standing like a statue behind the mic stand, Jacob showed great restraint and injected his big voice for the first half of the song. When he hit the chorus he grabbed the mic, did a little simulated movin' and shakin' with one of his back up singers, and at the bridge really let loose. By song's end Jacob had everyone lovin' him...and me missing Michael. The judges were unanimous in their praise for Jacob, but would leading off the night hurt him with the voters? We'll find out tomorrow, but let's listen to the other eight Idols before passing judgement.
Hoping to convince the voters that she deserves to continue in the competition, Hailey took on a classic from the hey day of Rock and Roll; Janice Joplin's "Piece of my Heart". Looking hot in leather leggings, four-inch heels, and big hair, Hailey did her best Janice impression, but was it more karaoke than Rock n' Roll princess? You be the judge...or listen to the Idol judges who thought Hailey nailed it and launched herself into contender status (according to J-Lo). Looks like we got a hot one! As the Dawg might say.
With the goal of continuing the strong run of performances, Casey took to the stage next to sing Sting's "Everything She Does is Magic"...but switched it up to CCR's "Have You Ever Seen the Rain". To add a special Casey flair to the performance, he broke back his trusty stand up Bass and was accompanied by a mandolin playing partner who sat on the stage below Casey. Watching Casey perform what in my opinion was the best song of the night (three songs in), I was very impressed with not only his vocals, but his personality and am SHOCKED that he almost went home a couple of weeks ago. Randy gave him serious props for making the stand up bass sexy and Steven called him a true musician. J-Lo said she'd pay top dollar to be in the front row of his concert--which is kind of where the judges already are; or maybe she's lobbying for a Fly Girl spot in the Casey entourage.
Whatever J-Lo's motives, she'll have the same seat for Georgia Peach, Lauren, who selected the Aretha Franklin classic, "Natural Woman". As the Idol stage doors parted and in walked Lauren, I was first taken aback by her crazy hair style (did Gwen advise that?), but then I got a look at the outfit she chose and was a bit surprised with the checker board top and ill-fitting shorts. All of that was a bit distracting for me, so when it came to listening to her perform her song, I didn't really find it all that great--certainly not compared to the first three Idols. But the judges didn't agree with me...Steven and J-Lo offered little critique and Randy credited her with taking a tough song and doing a good job with it although he admitted it didn't have him jumping out of his seat.
With Lauren's sub-par performance in the rear view, it was time for the Idol resident Rocker to hit the stage and show everyone how it's done on Rock night! But James decided to throw us a curve ball and selected George Harrison's mild tune, "While My Guitar Gently Weeps"--a questionable decision in the eyes of will.i.am and me...so how would the normally high energy singer do when he dialed it back? Well, here's what happened...we found James sitting perched upon a stool on the Idol stage bathed in a single spot and surrounded by smoke. For all but about 15seconds of the performance, James showed great restraint and then delivered his signature high note to appeal to his fans making his song selection worth it! The judges enjoyed the performance and while they heaped their praise on him, James gently weeped and openly showed his emotions. A great performance for a great performer. We're BACK to a HOT ONE!
With the audience ridig high from a number of great performances, Country Boy, Scotty, called on the King of Rock 'n Roll for his song selection. Scotty chose Elvis' "That's Alright" and started his performance sitting on the Idol staircase with his back ground singers--his version of the Jordanaires, I guess. As the stairs made their way to the stage, Scotty hopped off, walked around the cat walk behind the judges, and then back to center stage where I thought he under delivered a King classic. But when the song ended, there were some excited female fans who felt otherwise and rushed the stage to hug on him like he was the REAL Elvis. Randy praised Scotty and said he was "in it to win it"; Steven credited Scotty for not being a "cowboy who is all hat and no cattle"; and J-Lo wondered if he listened to Rap...which made no sense, right Paula?!
Last week after getting chastised by the judges (and everyone else) for only singing ballads, Pia promised to go up tempo if she made it another week (like that was in jeopardy). For her song, Pia chose Tina Turner's "River Deep Mountain High". Looking hot in a cat print jumper, steel band chocker, and big hoop earrings, Pia showed she could change speeds and sang directely to the judges gaining their approval before turning her attention to the Idol audience. Finishing on a huge note and hearing it from the fans in the studio, Steven assured her that there were "a million guys in a million bars having a million drinks to her". Then J-Lo did her "check" list and told Pia that she is "going to push her to do more" including adding some movement to her already total package.
With the crowd still buzzing from Pia's performance, Stefano was up next and chose Percy Sledge's "When a Man Loves a Woman". Stefano got a lot of advice/instruction from will.i.am primarily around making the audience wait for the next line in the song after "when a man loves a woman..." Dressed in black on black on black, Stefano did his best to persuade the Idol voters that he was singing to them...problem is he hardly kept his eyes open long enough to see the little red light on top of the hot camera. Predictably J-Lo gushed all over him and called the performance "magic". Randy said he wasn't jumping up and down about it...prompting J-Lo to call her fellow judge crazy. Is anyone else over J-Lo and her obvious favoring of what I believe is just a mediocre singer?
Ponder that while you read about Paul and his version of "Folsom Prison Blues" by the Man in Black, Johnny Cash. As he prepared for his performance, he was adviced to turn it loose just like Johnny would. With his trusty acoustic strapped around his neck and his now familiar greeting to the audience, Paul set out to remind people to vote for him and keep him out of the danger he was in last week. Around the half-way point in the song, Paul and the electric guitar player next to him got into a little duel on the dance floor (with their guitars, of course) before he got back into the vocals. All three judges "loved it" and agreed it was a great way to end the show.
Nine Idols performed tonight and three will be in danger tomorrow, but which three? If it were up to me the B3 would be made up of Lauren, Scotty, and Stefano with Stefano going home.
Tune in tomorrow to see how your votes were distributed among the Idols. Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
First up on the Idol stage was Gospel singer Jacob who originally selected "Let's Get it On" by the great Marvin Gaye, but ultimately opted for Michael Jackson's "Man in the Mirror". Dressed in white from head to toe and standing like a statue behind the mic stand, Jacob showed great restraint and injected his big voice for the first half of the song. When he hit the chorus he grabbed the mic, did a little simulated movin' and shakin' with one of his back up singers, and at the bridge really let loose. By song's end Jacob had everyone lovin' him...and me missing Michael. The judges were unanimous in their praise for Jacob, but would leading off the night hurt him with the voters? We'll find out tomorrow, but let's listen to the other eight Idols before passing judgement.
Hoping to convince the voters that she deserves to continue in the competition, Hailey took on a classic from the hey day of Rock and Roll; Janice Joplin's "Piece of my Heart". Looking hot in leather leggings, four-inch heels, and big hair, Hailey did her best Janice impression, but was it more karaoke than Rock n' Roll princess? You be the judge...or listen to the Idol judges who thought Hailey nailed it and launched herself into contender status (according to J-Lo). Looks like we got a hot one! As the Dawg might say.
With the goal of continuing the strong run of performances, Casey took to the stage next to sing Sting's "Everything She Does is Magic"...but switched it up to CCR's "Have You Ever Seen the Rain". To add a special Casey flair to the performance, he broke back his trusty stand up Bass and was accompanied by a mandolin playing partner who sat on the stage below Casey. Watching Casey perform what in my opinion was the best song of the night (three songs in), I was very impressed with not only his vocals, but his personality and am SHOCKED that he almost went home a couple of weeks ago. Randy gave him serious props for making the stand up bass sexy and Steven called him a true musician. J-Lo said she'd pay top dollar to be in the front row of his concert--which is kind of where the judges already are; or maybe she's lobbying for a Fly Girl spot in the Casey entourage.
Whatever J-Lo's motives, she'll have the same seat for Georgia Peach, Lauren, who selected the Aretha Franklin classic, "Natural Woman". As the Idol stage doors parted and in walked Lauren, I was first taken aback by her crazy hair style (did Gwen advise that?), but then I got a look at the outfit she chose and was a bit surprised with the checker board top and ill-fitting shorts. All of that was a bit distracting for me, so when it came to listening to her perform her song, I didn't really find it all that great--certainly not compared to the first three Idols. But the judges didn't agree with me...Steven and J-Lo offered little critique and Randy credited her with taking a tough song and doing a good job with it although he admitted it didn't have him jumping out of his seat.
With Lauren's sub-par performance in the rear view, it was time for the Idol resident Rocker to hit the stage and show everyone how it's done on Rock night! But James decided to throw us a curve ball and selected George Harrison's mild tune, "While My Guitar Gently Weeps"--a questionable decision in the eyes of will.i.am and me...so how would the normally high energy singer do when he dialed it back? Well, here's what happened...we found James sitting perched upon a stool on the Idol stage bathed in a single spot and surrounded by smoke. For all but about 15seconds of the performance, James showed great restraint and then delivered his signature high note to appeal to his fans making his song selection worth it! The judges enjoyed the performance and while they heaped their praise on him, James gently weeped and openly showed his emotions. A great performance for a great performer. We're BACK to a HOT ONE!
With the audience ridig high from a number of great performances, Country Boy, Scotty, called on the King of Rock 'n Roll for his song selection. Scotty chose Elvis' "That's Alright" and started his performance sitting on the Idol staircase with his back ground singers--his version of the Jordanaires, I guess. As the stairs made their way to the stage, Scotty hopped off, walked around the cat walk behind the judges, and then back to center stage where I thought he under delivered a King classic. But when the song ended, there were some excited female fans who felt otherwise and rushed the stage to hug on him like he was the REAL Elvis. Randy praised Scotty and said he was "in it to win it"; Steven credited Scotty for not being a "cowboy who is all hat and no cattle"; and J-Lo wondered if he listened to Rap...which made no sense, right Paula?!
Last week after getting chastised by the judges (and everyone else) for only singing ballads, Pia promised to go up tempo if she made it another week (like that was in jeopardy). For her song, Pia chose Tina Turner's "River Deep Mountain High". Looking hot in a cat print jumper, steel band chocker, and big hoop earrings, Pia showed she could change speeds and sang directely to the judges gaining their approval before turning her attention to the Idol audience. Finishing on a huge note and hearing it from the fans in the studio, Steven assured her that there were "a million guys in a million bars having a million drinks to her". Then J-Lo did her "check" list and told Pia that she is "going to push her to do more" including adding some movement to her already total package.
With the crowd still buzzing from Pia's performance, Stefano was up next and chose Percy Sledge's "When a Man Loves a Woman". Stefano got a lot of advice/instruction from will.i.am primarily around making the audience wait for the next line in the song after "when a man loves a woman..." Dressed in black on black on black, Stefano did his best to persuade the Idol voters that he was singing to them...problem is he hardly kept his eyes open long enough to see the little red light on top of the hot camera. Predictably J-Lo gushed all over him and called the performance "magic". Randy said he wasn't jumping up and down about it...prompting J-Lo to call her fellow judge crazy. Is anyone else over J-Lo and her obvious favoring of what I believe is just a mediocre singer?
Ponder that while you read about Paul and his version of "Folsom Prison Blues" by the Man in Black, Johnny Cash. As he prepared for his performance, he was adviced to turn it loose just like Johnny would. With his trusty acoustic strapped around his neck and his now familiar greeting to the audience, Paul set out to remind people to vote for him and keep him out of the danger he was in last week. Around the half-way point in the song, Paul and the electric guitar player next to him got into a little duel on the dance floor (with their guitars, of course) before he got back into the vocals. All three judges "loved it" and agreed it was a great way to end the show.
Nine Idols performed tonight and three will be in danger tomorrow, but which three? If it were up to me the B3 would be made up of Lauren, Scotty, and Stefano with Stefano going home.
Tune in tomorrow to see how your votes were distributed among the Idols. Until then, I will continue watching TV so you don't have to...
Charlie
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