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
Thursday, April 21, 2011
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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