American Idol Season 6 Elimination Round 2 - The Men 2/27

American Idol continues rolling along. Last night's episode was pretty good with most of the men raising the bar on their performances. Some of the cheesy dedication videos were way too over the top especially Sundance's. I have to agree with Simon this isn't a dedication competition. Fox knows how to get mileage out of their top rated show throwing in a plug for the premiere of "Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader" and having Jeff Foxworthy as a host. Shameless.

It was also shameless to take credit for discovering Jennifer Hudson as well.

On with my comments:

Phil Stacey - "I Ain't Missing You At All"

Phil was a little boring last night. His outfit was boring and what was with the section of pirate like laces on one shoulder, was there a tear and that is how it got patched up, it was a wow me outfit. His performance didn't wow me either. He was okay, It didn't sound like he was using his natural voice during the number. It was at least on pitch for the song and he rallied for the big note at the end. It was a rather safe when he should have been taking risks.

Randy - hot, showing power

Paula - great tone, I can hear you on the radio

Simon - I was not jumping out of my chair, you are very popular, nice guy, there was nothing original, I liked the bit at the end, nothing unique, just good karaoke but you will be back here next week

Jared Cotter - "Let's Get It On"

First of all while I understand he was dedicating his performance to his parents, it is creepy to make that dedication and then sing this song. It was just a stupid choice to make. Second of all his simple black suit was appropriate but the white sneakers were not, I could have lived with the sneakers if they had been black but white, it just looked stupid and it irritated me so he lost me before he even got started. His performance was not too bad, he had some pitch problems and he was straining quite a bit to reach the power notes which is not a good for your voice or chances of carrying through to the end. Jared was clearing having fun and has a connection with the audience, his smile and charm will probably get him through to next week. Jared also needs some instruction in movement, his dance moves were stupid and annoying.

Randy - started rough, a little pitchy, but I liked it

Paula - good looking guy, you don't have to push that hard (no pun intended)

Simon - glad you made the attempt, it remind me of The Love Boat, a bit corny in parts, like cabaret

A.J. Tabaldo - "Feeling Good"

Finally someone who can dress and perform. I really liked the shirt and vest. I absolutely adore this song and A.J. did an excellent job. It started a bit rough for me and the band way over powered him but once he it the upbeat tempo the number rocked. A.J. has a great voice and definitely can sing. I only heard one sharp note. I am not sure about his dance movements either but he had command of the stage and the audience.

Randy - so much better than last week, showed some skills, kinda nice

Paula - real good voice

Simon - nearly very good, some tuning problems in the middle but you stood out, we saw some personality, you seemed strangely comfortable

Sanjaya Malaker - "Steppin Out with My Baby"

Poor Sanjaya, two bad performances but he has that infectious smile and good looks. First his chose of clothes compared to song was wrong, the fedora has to go - don't dress young and then perform an old song. Second his voice was weak, at one point I had to strain to understand him, it was almost a whisper, I think he was just talking to the music versus singing. He was stiff, looked uncomfortable, and what few dance moves he tried to pull off, fell flat. I am not feeling the love and did not vote for him at all last night. Sanjaya was totally off his game.

Randy - you are a nice kid, it was really weird, like a bad high school talent show, it didn't work, weak

Paula - you sang on pitch, you have an old soul, it was an odd choice of song, you need to celebrate your youth

Simon - I agree with Randy, it was like a ghastly lunch where the parents have the kids come out and sing, it was weak, made no impact, you whispered at the end

Chris Sligh - "Trouble"

I actually liked Chris's dedication to his wife, it worked for me, his wife is totally gorgeous and hot, his comment about "most people have no idea how I ever coerced her to marry me." He gives every geek and fat guy hope for themselves. It was totally cool and it was the absolute perfect song choice for him as well.

Chris looked good in his outfit, it worked for me. Chris's performance also totally rocked. He had great tone, his voice was clear, he enunciated every word and great range as well. There was true emotion coming from Chris, it is why the song worked, he was passionate about the message. Chris hit the power note at the end. It was an awesome performance and actually singing to his wife was a good move.

Randy - it is good to see you return, big voice, great skill, good choice I liked it

Paula - I liked it too, watch your pitch and getting ahead of the the music

Simon - you are a good singer

Nick Pedro - "Fever"

Nick dressed appropriately but I definitely didn't hear what the judges did. Nick does know how to perform and connect with the audience but there were incredible pitch problems, his voice was overly raspy (maybe fighting a cold) but he had to strain because of it which isn't good as previously indicated and he couldn't quite reach the power notes. The arrangement was bizarre and the band was way overpowering. It was just an okay moment for me, no wow, no originality and dare I say, a little cabaret.

Randy - so much better then last week, you returned to your cool vibe, smoky voice, you were pitchy and rushing too much

Paula - great tone, just let go, go for it

Simon - I thought it was good, lacked charisma, good voice


Blake Lewis - "Virtual Insanity"

This was my absolute favorite performance of the evening. Blake looked cool and given the nature of the song he even pulled off the the usual stupid sideways baseball cap look, it was truly funky look for a great funky song. Blake was in command of the stage and what he was able to do with this song and his voice. The way he seamlessly through in his beat box and even some scatting was unbelievable. This is the number which got me on my feet dancing along with the beat. Absolutely top notch performance and way better than last week's.

Randy - great return to form, loved the falsetto and scatting at the end

Paula - smart choice, you are unique, way too go

Simon - I have to disagree, I was disappointed, the first part was just copycat, the second bit was great, and in the end, the tune went, didn't see any originality.

Brandon Rogers - "Time after Time"

Poor Brandon, I didn't like his outfit nor the performance. I thought he was totally off-key for the entire number, it was clearly a poor song choice and he brought nothing new or original to it. His total performance lacked energy and emotion. It wasn't even up to a good background singer performance let alone a headliner. I was bored.

Randy - didn't show off his vocals, it was kind of boring although he liked the sentiment of the dedication

Paula - I disagree, I felt it in my heart, you don't need to over sing, beautiful voice, the dedication was special

Simon - talented but you need to make a wow impact, you are a good singer

Chris Richardson - "Geek in the Pink"

Chris was totally dressed appropriately, liked the outfit. I have mixed emotions about the actual performance. The things that totally worked were he was having fun, had great energy, fantastic movement, was comfortable on stage, commanded the stage and the audience's attention and he had great enunciation. I could actually understand what he was saying which is difficult with a song like this. What didn't work was his vocals, he was totally off-pitch, sharp several times, he needs better breath control to tackle those long string of lyrics, as well as being able to control the transition between his lower and upper register. Although I didn't like the vocals, I like Chris and enjoyed the performance because he had so much joy in what he was doing.

Randy - you are in it to win tonight, hotter then the original

Paula - hilarious you dedicated this number to your grandmother, love it

Simon - you are someone to watch, best tonight by miles

Sundance Head - "Mustang Sally"

Sundance was better then last week but not my much. I hated the arrangement and the band was way too loud once again. Sundance totally needs to work on his showmanship (all that sweat, gross) but his vocals were fine. I didn't hear any flat or sharp notes and he definitely hit the power notes. The problem though is he didn't wow me (oh god I am sounding like Simon) and based on his audition he could do better. He clearly improved from last week but he hasn't won me over and really needs to step up next week.

Randy - wow, what a difference a week makes, you were da bomb

Paula - you need to do this every week, awesome, best vocal we have heard from you

Simon - I agree with Randy and Paula - we got the back the Sundance we like but you good still do better.


I managed to get in 150 votes last night using two phones. Last week the men were pretty bad and it was a little easier to predict. This week they were better and we have to start considering their fan base and all the other intangibles people use to vote.

Strictly on performance Sanjaya and Brandon should be walking out the door but given how Sanjaya was in the top 4 of vote getter's last week when he sang him worse I think the pre-teen set and their ability to text message will carry him through.

I am predicting that Brandon and Nick will get the heave ho this week with a possible upset with Jared.

The women are up tonight. Let's hope they step up their game even better then last week.

Until tomorrow.....

American Idol Season 6 1st Results Show 2/22

Last night's result show was actually not too bad. It didn't seem to drag on like some of the others do. I also felt the reveal of who is getting eliminated was handled pretty well given what is happening. Last year I thought the first couple were very harsh.

The four who were eliminated were Paul, Rudy, Amy and Nicole. Well I got one right from each group although I did say Leslie or Nicole were in trouble.

I have to say Paul was the only contestant's who actually sounded better in their sign off song but he still could hit the high note from "Careless Whisper".

It was interesting that there were 32,000,000 votes over two days, pretty impressive.

Interesting twist with a group number. I have to say the men started it off rough but they all rallied for a good ending of "Seeds of Love".

Nice little twist with the American Idol Challenge although last night's question was way too easy, they need harder trivia so I have a better chance of winning. I did vote the maximum number of 10; however, I went the free route on line.

Fantasia actually did a nice job and she has toned down her dramatic movements although they are still there. I actually liked the song to. They did though rudely cut off Quincy Jones before he could finish speaking.

The announcement of some of the guest artists were interesting:

Diana Ross
Jon Bon Jovi
Jennifer Lopez (and exactly what is she going to teach them, it is not like she has a great body of musical hits she has written or performed)
Gwen Stefani (I love Gwen and I am happy there is going to be a No Doubt reunion but again I am not sure what instruction she will be giving them)
Tony Bennett
Martina McBride (country theme night - this might help the women but I am not seeing the guys singing Martina songs, although it might actually be good entertainment)
Lulu and Peter Noone (come on Please!)
Barry Gibb

Round 2 starts again next Tuesday and by Thursday another 4 will have lost their dream to be the next American Idol!

American Idol Season 6 Elimination Round 1 - The Women

Can we say last night was about 1,000 times better then Tuesday. The difference between the women and the man is tremendous. Naturally they all didn't blow my socks off but then I am a tough critic. There wasn't has much drama last night either which was a good thing.

I also managed to get 100 votes in last night with the majority going to the contestants I thought were the best.

On with my comments about the performances:

Stephanie Edwards - "How Come You Don't Call Me Anymore"

Stephanie brought it home, she was a great start for the evening. I loved her outfit, the shoes were spectacular as well. She seems like a natural born performer, she was working the crowd. She has a very nice vocal tone although she had some serious pitch problems I think she overcame that issue with just downright awesome confidence and she clearly has a sexy playfulness about her.

Randy - you set it off, it was a little pitchy, but the conviction was there and the run at the end, wow

Paula - what a performer, you are a star, amazing

Simon - a million times better then last night, your best performance, good song choice, terrific performance, you came out saying I want to win

Amy Krebs - "I Can't Make You Love Me"

From high to low, poor Amy she was out of her element. Her outfit sucked, the dress was hideous. I didn't like the tone of her voice and she started out rough and her transitions weren't smooth at all. She was stiff as a board to, she looked so uncomfortable out there on the stage she made me uncomfortable. This was just bad!

Randy - middle of the road performance, safe song, didn't work

Paula - I agree with Randy, we liked your bluesy R&B feel, song wasn't a good fit

Simon - problem is that I can remember you, when you sing you have the personality of a candle, you need to stand out

Leslie Hunt - "You Make Me Fell (Like a Natural Woman)"

Leslie had a very bland outfit and I hated the boots but she has a beautiful face. In addition her song choice couldn't have been worse, I have said before don't pick a song a previous American Idol has done so well in the past, Leslie can't match what Kelly Clarkson did with this song. Her body movements were awkward and distracting. I like the quality of her vocal tone and she had absolutely great enunciation but she was off key quite a bit. She was rough at the beginning and her transitions were shaky. She did rally with the note at the end but it didn't help her much overall.

Randy - I was hoping for greatness, song was a little too big for you, if you take on Aretha you have to sing the heck out of it, it was just okay

Paula - did a great job, watch the song choice

Simon - it wasn't great, you are a nice girl but you looked embarrassed, like you were out of your comfort zone, you looked like you didn't really want to be there

Sabrina Sloan - "I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)"

Sabrina took command of the stage and this woman rocked, she has one hell of a good voice and she knows how to use it. Her performance was stunning and she had me on my feet swaying to the beat. I think she was a little off on the high note at the end but I will forgive that given the rest of the powerhouse performance. I hated her outfit though. This is the best performance so far this evening.

Randy - we finally have a competition, way to put it down, hot

Paula - standing ovation

Simon - the judges are criticized for their comment at this stage but you just proved our point, you were taking part, genuine talent, best so far

Antonella Barba - "I Don't Wanna Miss a Thing"

Poor Antonella, it appears tonight you don't want to an odd number because we have this seesaw going between high and then low performances. Let us once again talk about song selection, why would you take on a song done by a group, hello! This performance was a fumble from the beginning. I didn't like the choice of starting it sitting, it didn't work. It started out rough and it didn't get better. The woman could even get the melody right on the chorus. Her diction was atrocious, I couldn't understand half of what she was saying. This is a rock ballad but yet there was no power to it and she couldn't hit the money note either. It was a train wreck from start to finish.

Randy - it wasn't good, pitchy, bland

Paula - it wasn't great but it wasn't bad (Excuse me!) you did have pitch problems, need a better song choice

Simon - good news is you are attractive, bad news the performance did work, the song was way, way too big for you and you damaged your chances of sticking around.

Jordin Sparks - "Give Me One Reason"

Okay my odd/even theory is proving spot on so far, Jordin rocked the house. I like her, she has a wonderful, positive, personality and what a truly winning smile. She has great confidence and ultimately she has the vocal talent to pull it off and given time she will do great things given she is only 17 and a junior in high school. Jordin was an energetic performer and she has a great vocal tone. There were a couple of flat notes but she hit the high note at the end.

Randy - unbelievable talent, you can do it, there is no song too big for you

Paula - great song choice, sounded tentative at first, you had fun - go for it

Simon - I have seen a big change in you, agrees with Randy you have a good voice, your song choice is terrific and if you push yourself I think you can really surprise people

Nicole Tranquillo - "Stay"

Nicole performer number 7 failed to measure up. I did not enjoy this performance and although I am being repetitive her outfit sucked as well. These contestants desperately need my help as a stylist. This vocal performance was unremarkable and she was totally off key for the majority of the song. Nicole also had enunciation problems, I just could not understand her the majority of the number and if I am listening to a song I want to hear the lyrics clearly. Nicole is another singer who shouts or screams rather then letting the melody carry her voice.

Randy - it wasn't working, I didn't feel it, it was rough

Paula - I am impressed by the notes you hit, it wasn't the right song but you can sing

Simon - it was indulgent, aggressive, looked fake, unnatural and over-rehearsed, you can sing but song choice is important

Haley Scarnato - "It's All Coming Back to Me Now"

Haley finally broke my odd/even theory. Do these contestants never pay attention to prior seasons, you just can do Celine Dion, it never works and Haley tried but failed. Haley though had a hot outfit and she has good performance skills but the vocals weren't spectacular which they have to be to attempt Celine. Haley could not hit the high notes and I think her voice was cracking at the those same notes. Haley also needs a lesson in breathing skills because if you don't have the breath you can't hit the power note baby. However, she does have a nice vocal tone when she was on the melody.

Randy - just okay, good song choice because Haley has a Broadway-ish voice, didn't do anything special with the song

Paula - nice job but was hoping for a different song

Simon - you sounded 40, it was like being at the final number at a reasonably good hotel performance, too old fashion, you have a good voice

Melinda Doolittle - "Since You've Been Gone"

Melinda, wow what a surprise. This was one kick ass performance, there was energy and the girl can work the crowd, oh baby! Melinda was having fun and what a fantastic soulful voice. Every part of this vocal performance worked, she was spot on and I understood every word clearly. I was swaying to the beat and she had my feet a dancing.

Randy - you proved it, you blew it out, what confidence, you are a natural

Paula - you are a frontrunner, a fire cracker

Simon - over two nights, he has seen people with little talent and a lot of arrogance you are the exact opposite, incredible singer

Alaina Alexander - "Brass in Pocket"

Alaina is not in the same league as some of the other women. This was just another horrible train wreck. Alaina does not have the vocal control for this song, she doesn't have the range to make it work. She was incredibly sharp for most of the number and she couldn't get the power notes. Her performance skills were not too shabby, there was passion in her performance it is just sad her vocals didn't match.

Randy - it really wasn't great, a little pitchy, didn't do anything different with the song

Paula - didn't make the song your own, you didn't go for it, I didn't feel it.

Simon - you kept singing "I'm special" but you aren't. you shouldn't have picked it, you are not a bad singer but right now you are going to have to rely on your looks not your voice

Gina Glocksen - "All By Myself"

I personally really like Gina and she does have a great voice, it has a really rich quality to it but I am not sure this was the right song for her but I really liked the arrangement. She had some problems with the high notes throughout but surprising the ending note was truly amazing. Her performance skills are good, she was confident and having fun. The crowd really liked her and she can play to the camera.

Randy - when you started I wasn't sure it would work but you surprised me, you have a big voice

Paula - you picked the right son for your voice

Simon - you showed us a different side, I don't think you hit the big note

Lakisha Jones - "And I am telling you I'm Not Going"

Lakisha brought last night's show to an unbelievable ending. The woman can sing, she was one very powerful kick ass voice. Lakisha's performance actually gave me chills and it takes a lot to impress me. Every other contestant paled in comparison, she took command of the stage and knocked this number out of the ball park. My only concern was breath control but she hit those high notes even with that problem. She had me on my feet and I was singing along with her. Lakisha was with out a doubt the best of the evening and compared to the men she is right now the front runner to go all the way.

Randy - I do love you, you laid it out

Paula - you have so much to be proud of, you belong here

Simon - to correct someone earlier on, THAT was the right note. I am tempted to tell the other 23 contestants to book their plane ticket now and head home, Lakisha you are in a different league from everyone else


My prediction for the two eliminations for the women are without question Amy and Antonella with Alania just a bit behind. There is no doubt the two singers going home will have their names start with an A. If there are any surprises it could be Leslie or Nicole.

Until tomorrow!

American Idol Season 6 2/20/07 Elimination Round Episode 1 - The Men

I am doing my happy dance, not because the performances were so great, they weren't but American Idol is back and my fingers were doing the walking. I didn't see the show as it occurred but after I got home from a class. It only took me 45 minutes to get through the 2 hour show because I only watched the performances and the judges comments. It basically gave me an hour to vote and I used to my advantage. More of about that later along with my predictions of which two men will be escorted out on Thursday.

Everything was back, the red room, the cheesy background visuals along with the snapping between Ryan and Simon plus Simon and Paula. I was in American Idol heaven, oh baby!

On with my comments:

Rudy Cardenas - "Free Ride": I can't let it go without a comment. These people need a stylist, I realize they don't get them technically until they get to the Top 12 but please, a sweatshirt with a target it on. The target was distracting, annoying and I wanted to shoot him to get it over with. What was the kid thinking? His performance was pretty energetic but his vocals weren't. He had terrible enunciation, I could hard understand him and he had horrible breath problems and we won't even get into how pitchy he was either. He managed the chorus because he went into a higher register but his transitions aren't good and clearly has problems with the lower register. Overall it wasn't the best vocal. It sucks to be first in this case.

Randy - it was really corny and something I would hear in any bar in America (my god Randy is channeling Simon)

Paula - started fantastic, voice is fantastic

Simon - Nothing unique or distinctive, song is dated, you would get lost in a crowd.

Brandon Rogers - "Rock With You": clearly his performance skills were on display, he knows how to play to the crowd and even more important to the camera. Brandon has a nice tone to his voice but he had some pitch problems and I think he was trying way to hard to sell it and didn't need all those transitions, he should have stuck with a cleaner vocal choice. I like him overall but he needs to step it up more if he wants to continue. He was at least dressed appropriately.

Randy - not your best, a little pitchy, a little weird, don't over sing just do the melody

Paula - great job but too many runs, your not a back up singer, you need to sing like the lead

Simon - your a good singer but this was safe and predictable, you need to make more of an impact, you are better than that performance

Sundance Head - "Nights in White Satin": I liked his audition but as I said last week I won't have put him through based on his Hollywood performance. I think I was proven right. I did not like his suit and that King Tut goatee needs to go. I will give Sundance credit for choosing an interesting song it is just too bad he hasn't lived up to his audition number. Mr. Head (can you imagine hearing that over a loud speaker) was the first performer who was totally overwhelmed by the band and can we talk about pitch problems. He was so off key when he started and his enunciation sucked as well. If you are singing lyrics I want to actually hear and understand the words. I just did not enjoy this performance at all.

Randy - where is the bluesy vibe, you were off pitch

Paula - wrong song choice, you are a better singer, pitch was off

Simon - you are like a dad in a wedding (I didn't get this comment at all), the whole thing was flat, I don't like you tonight. Paula's response to Simon was amusing - "I don't like you ever".

Paul Kim - "Careless Whispers": Oh where or where to begin. Song choice is everything and this is not a good choice. George Michael is way too hard to do and Paul did not have the voice for this number. Paul was very stiff and he wasn't selling the emotion of this song either. He was totally off key, and shall we say he just didn't bring that high falsetto note off and he couldn't transition back to the lower register very well either. This is the worst performance so far this evening and that is not saying much. I hate the whole barefoot thing just as much as I hated Jasmine's flower in her hair. This is a singing contest not a mediation contest - put on your damn shoes.

Randy - did not like the song, it was pitchy at the start, middle okay and the falsetto was bad, you still have potential though.

Paula - you over sang it, didn't find your center, pitchy but you are worth pushing through (not based on that performance)

Simon - I recommend you put your shoes on next week, very ordinary copy of George Michael, you didn't make it unique, it was a 3rd rate version

Chris Richardson - "I Don't Want To Be" - This was a better good performance. He cleans up well. He was at least on key. The vocals were good, I could understand him but his dancing and head movements were annoying. He has to boost his performance skills. I actually like Chris and he was clearly connecting with the audience. He needs to put out more effort but I think he can pull it off.

Randy - I think the show just got started, it was not your best performance but you made it work and you made it your own

Paula - great arrangement, different flavor, so much fun to watch you and your dad

Simon - Sorry to sound so negative tonight, I really really like you , you sounded small, you have potential, the girls will vote for you but just judging the vocal it was below standard.

Nick Pedro - "Now and Forever": I thought this was a good song choice. He has a great smile and definitely can play to the audience. I also thought his posture was strange, it looked like he was hunched over. He clearly had some pitch problems though. He pulled off the falsetto though. Why do these singers have such hard problems with the lower register? I am not sure why but I really like Nick and I feel he at least understood the emotion of the song he was trying to sell. Overall the best so far this evening and that is not saying much after the last 5.

Randy - it was not good, it was really boring, pitchy, we lost the Nick we love

Paula - I didn't feel it, it fell flat (it wasn't that bad)

Simon - It was that bad, you were very nervous, you are still a charming guy, your voice didn't sound that bad

Blake Lewis - "Somewhere Only We Know": Blake had a great outfit and I liked the use of the chair and sitting, it was appropriate when he was using vs. when he stood. Blake picked a great song for him and he pulled it off. There were a few pitch problems but overall excellent job. He surprised me and made the song his own. I totally liked this performance. This performance has moved up to being the best of the evening so far.

Randy - shock at song choice but I kinda dug it, so different, missed the beat-box, despite some pitch problems it was enjoyable

Paula - proud of you for choosing an odd song, contemporary, loved the falsetto, vocal spot on, not much pitch problems.

Simon - not the best vocal but the first person who came out and sounded like someone in 2007, right choice not to beat-box but to do something different, best performance tonight.

Sanjaya Malakar - "Knock Me Off my feet": will these contestants never learn about song choice, Stevie Wonder is difficult and rarely does any contestant pull it off. Sanjaya is cute, has a great smile but his vocal performance sucked in a major way. His performance was stiff, unexciting, just plain boring. He had some pitch problems but his vocal tone isn't too bad but his enunciation was terrible.

Randy - it wasn't very good, not a good song choice, it was really bad

Paula - you have a sweet soul, a very nice voice, need to see more personality

Simon - don't sing a song with a line" I don't want to bore you with this" because it was a dreary performance, it seemed to last forever, it was a waste of time performance, dull

Chris Sligh - "Typical": I thought his outfit was great and I hated the song Chris put on a great performance playing to the crowd, his vocals were generally alright although he had a few pitch problems and several times he got ahead of the music. He did well with the melody but had some problems with the transitions. It was just fun to watch him and I have to cheer for the fat kid. The only problem with Chris is you don't fight with the judges or Simon. He apparently hasn't paid attention to the previous seasons and those performers who do. It is okay to disagree but don't start the jabs, it never works and you come off looking like a spoiled brat. Just smile and agree to disagree. I think Chris did himself a disservice in fighting with Simon.

Randy - you were rushing ahead of the beat, voice on point

Paula - good song choice, you are not typical, so you were ahead of the chorus "so what?"

Simon - I agree your humor has gotten you this far, I like you, you have a fantastic personality but this was like some weird student gig (another reference I don't get) not a great vocal performance, just okay

Jared Cotter - "Back at One": Jared clearly looked comfortable on the stage and he has a great voice, the tone was good and he is cute which will pull in the young female audience for votes but I am not sure about the song choice. It didn't do much for me, it was too safe but at least he did a credible job but it was like imitating the original vs. making a song your own. I also didn't feel the passion of the song from him. He does get kudos's for an excellent vocal even with some of the minor pitch problems.

Randy - pretty good, didn't like ending, tough song to sing

Paula - sounded too much like Brian McKnight, there is more to you

Simon - it was unadventurous, a bit nasally, you look good, no one is going to wake up tomorrow to talk about this performance, you need to take more risks

AJ Tabaldo - "Never Too Much": this was by far my most favorite performance of the evening, he chose the right song, he showed some personality, his vocals were spot on and he had incredible diction. He had a great falsetto as well. Finally some color in an outfit as well.

Randy - looked like you were having fun, vocally it was pretty good, you didn't bring anything new though

Paula - you definitely can sing, your vocal tone had the girls melting, you need to go for it more, great job

Simon - good but not great, a "theme park performance", it was predictable and you need to choose a more daring song but you are better then I first thought

Phil Stacey - "I Could Not Ask for More": let us just say when Phil started out I had my first finger nail on the chalkboard moment but he overcame that horrible, disgusting beginning, rallied with the chorus and at least ended on a upbeat note. Pretty good vocal tone and good diction. Overall a good performance but not the best of the evening. The other thing which bothered me is he used that damn mike stand like Bo Bice and Chris Daughtry, I just can't take another season of rockers with the mike stand. I might go postal. Chris Sligh needs to take a lesson on how to handle criticism, Phil did just the right thing.

Randy - started out rough but best vocal prize of the night, rich full on-point (I don't think so...)

Paula - beginning was shaky but with the chorus you opened up

Simon - the beginning was absolutely monstrous but got better, not best, it was okay.



The men definitely did not shine during this first round but everyone wasn't horrible. There were good and bad about everyone. My favorites so far are AJ, Blake, Chris, Jared and Nick. The men will have to do much better if they want to remain. Many of them are going to be lucky that only two are going home on Thursday.

I didn't have time to vote but I managed to get in approximately 60 votes. My strategy was about who I totally hated and didn't want to come back so I didn't vote at all for Paul, Sundance or Sanjaya.

Picking the two to go is a difficult one because so many should, based on performance alone I think Sundance and Paul will head out the door but if Paul's earlier performances are remembered then Sanjana will get one of the bottom two spots. Those who are staying will have more to do with the female vote for cuteness vs. singing ability.

Until tonight, let's pray the women step up the game!

American Idol Season 6 Hollywood Episode 2 The Top 24

Last night the final 40 made the long slow elevator ride and walk across the ballroom floor to sit in that little chair and hear the news from Randy, Paula and Simon. This is their last chance do they get a thumbs up or thumbs down. It was another evening of joy and tears although many of the contestants took it pretty well everything considered but we had the many who broke down under the pressure of the big fat no.

There were a few surprises for me but I think over all except for the inclusion of Sundance I believe the judges have made the appropriate choices.

Here are the top 24:

Women:

Alaina Alexander
24
West Hollywood, CA
Amy Krebs
22
Federal Way, WA
Antonella Barba
20
Point Pleasant, NJ
Gina Glockson
22
Naperville, IL
Haley Scanato
24
San Antonio, TX
Jardin Sparks
17
Glendale AZ
Lakisha Jones
27
Fort Meade, MD
Leslie Hunt
24
Chicago, IL
Melinda Doolittle
29
Brenton, TN
Nicole Tranquillo
20
Philadelphia, PA
Sabrina Sloan
27
Studio City CA
Stephanie Edwards
19
Savannah, GA

Men:

AJ Tabaldo
22
Santa Maria, CA
Blake Lewis
25
Bothell, WA
Brandon Rogers
28
North Hollywood, CA
Chris Richardson
22
Chesapeake, VA
Chris Sligh
28
Greenville, SC
Jared Cotter
25
Kew Gardens NY
Nicholas Pedro
25
Taunton, MA
Paul Kim
25
Saratoga, CA
Phil Stacey
29
Jacksonville, Fl
Rudy Cardenas
28
North Hollywood CA
Sanjaya Malakar
17
Federal Way WA
Sundance Head
28
Porter, TX
Next week begin the elimination rounds to whittle it down to the Top 12. Let your fingers do the dialing, I am going to dial all night long or at least the two hours we normally get!
American Idol will be moving to three nights per week for the next few weeks until we are down to the Top 12.
Next week the men sing on Tuesday 8:00 p.m. (2 hour show) and the women sing on Wednesday 8:00 (2 hours) and then the elimination show on Thursday at 8:00 p.m. (1 hour).
Let the fun begin!

American Idol Season 6 Hollywood Week Episode 1

We are finally in Hollywood where stars are born. We have spent the last 4 weeks suffering through the truly deluded of America trying for their 15 minutes of fame. Now we are getting closer to seeing who the real stars are going to be this season.
The Hollywood episodes are always interesting because while we hear some singers we don't hear them all and the clips are usually so fast you can't even remember their names.
Tonight should be full of drama, tears and cheers from all the Hollywood hopefuls.
I just have to say the judges are clearly getting to the end of their rope and they are taking no prisoners where in previous seasons I think they let people through for no good reason. I was happy to see that wasn't the case last night. It appears every single contestant who forgot a lyric got the heave ho. It is time the pressure is put on, if you can't survive this I am not sure you can survive all the other crap that happens when you are in the celebrity spotlight.
172 contestants made it to Hollywood including 114 women and 58 men.
Day 1 found the girls performing first and it wasn't pretty. During the individual auditions each contestant would get 30 seconds. The first 6 who tried out got cut immediately. This is going to be harsh. After all 6 were told they weren't good enough Simon turned to the rest and said let this being a warning to you.
The rest of the girls flew by and too much time was spent on some rather then others. I am personally tired of all the back stories I just want to hear them sing.
After day 1, 56 women are sent home leaving 58.
Day 2 the men get to perform and their odds are better because there clearly aren't as many men who have to be cut. There was nothing really outstanding about any of the quick clips of the men singing. In the end 24 men get cut leaving 34 left to go on to the group auditions.
Next up are the group auditions always an interesting part of the final round given the nature of groups and the total lack of the contestants remembering the prior Hollywood audition episodes. These contestants clearly need my help in remembering the rules.
There was an unusual twist this year compared to prior years, everyone had to find their own group vs. being assigned. They spent too much time on the few who couldn't find a group. We had more of the back story of the groups and their fighting about everything from song choice to choreography. This is a friggin' singing contest, during this portion focus on the singing folks.
I was under whelmed for the most part as usual with the group auditions with the exception of one group which they did focus on, this group was Blake, Rudy, Tom and Chris. These contestants were truly spectacular. They chose "How Deep Is Your Love" and completely nailed it, dancing and all. Paula of course gave them a standing ovation which they deserved. Luckily they all made it through.
After the group auditions we are left with 56 contestants remaining.
Day 4 will find only 40 people standing at the end. Everyone is broken out into 3 rooms, 2 rooms will go forward and 1 room will not. Oh the tears, the joy, the hugs - give me a break - it is dog eat dog and everyone of those left standing would stab the next person to get through to the top 24.
I just love watching this drama unfold.
Tonight 40 will be cut to the final 24, 12 men and 12 women. Then America will finally take over on deciding who stays and who goes. The call in numbers are programmed into my phone, my dialing fingers are ready, let the fun begin!
P.S. Talking about 15 minutes of fame, I think I need to call a press conference and throw my name in as one of the potential fathers of Anna Nicole Smith's daughter. We are already up to 5, what is one more? The things people will do for fame and money....

American Idol Season 6 Episode 8 the Best of the Worst

Last night's episode wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. This was a catch up episode showing us some of the better singers who got through as well as some of the worst. They built the show around the theme of auditioning lessons. The lessons were: the look, seek inspiration, never give up (repeat auditioners - apparently the most ever), audition on your own, learn to dance (shake it baby), clarity (amen to this - if I can understand the lyrics why bother)
It was hard to keep track of everyone because they were moving at a pretty fast pace with the clips.
Tami Gosnell is one of the lengthier auditions they showed. She was pretty non-descript (showed up during the look lesson) and could use a great stylist (they need to hire me) but she has one hell of a great voice and she had total control of it as well. Tami got her golden ticket and she deserved it, I am looking forward to seeing what she can do in Hollywood.
Paul Kim the pool boy was up (during the seek inspiration - he is trying to fight the image of William Hung as representative of Asian singers) singing "If I Ever Fall in Love Again". Once again we had a contestant who could sing. He was spot on with the melody and had great vocal tone. His diction was excellent as well.
Jack Odanovich was up next trying to imitate Bo Bice and was horrific. He was so off-key it wasn't even funny. I did enjoy that Simon finally told someone they were deluded.
Gina Glocksen made it to Hollywood last year and I thought she was pretty good then. She is back again and auditions with "Black Velvet" (another popular audition song this year). She has a fantastic voice and above all she has a great personality. Gina gets another try at Hollywood.
Edward Sanchez tries to perform "Donna" and does it very poorly. He was so off-key and on top of it his diction was terrible you could hardly understand the words he was saying. Edward went home empty handed but it didn't matter because he got to meet his idol - Paula. Oh please!
We are then presented with Heather, Ashley and Ebony. All dressed as roller-skating waitresses ala Kellie Pickler. The all come in the audition room together but thankfully sing separately. Heather is first with "God Bless the Broken Road". She was okay but nothing special (at least she was in key). Ashley was second with "Angel" and again she was good but nothing special yet clearly better then Heather. Finally we have Ebony performing "I Believe in You and Me" and let me know you she has a great set of pipes. Her voice was clear, her tone was fantastic, and she had good control as well. The judges gave Ashley and Ebony are given the golden ticket and Heather is sent home empty handed. Personally Ebony is the only person I would have voted through.
William Emil Samland (also known as WES - the initials) auditions with his own song - "Don't Worry, Don't Hurry". It is a dumb title for a song, the lyrics sucked, and trust me WES isn't a singer either. No golden ticket for WES.
Alex Nazario tries to impress with some unusual dance movements inspired by Paula which fell flat and his feeble attempts at singing got him the boot but good.
Lakisha (what is it with these names) Jones performs "Think" and let us just say she was fantastic. Of all the good singers we have seen she is now my favorite. Lakisha can sing, her voice is one powerful weapon. She nailed this song and she has the personality to go along with it. Lakisha is going to Hollywood, thank heavens.
The auditions are over and the final round is waiting for us next week. 172 people will be in Hollywood. These shows are always interesting, the tears, the fights, the breakdowns, and the group singing.
We are getting ever closer to being able to vote. When the Hollywood episode is over there will be the top 24, 12 women and 12 men who will then start performing for America and we will be going to three nights a week for Idol as we eliminate to get the final 12.
Let the fun begin!

American Idol Season 6 Episode 7 San Antonio

We have reached the final audition show. It is always interesting to me they edit these shows and never actually show the cities in the order they old the auditions. They kept saying San Antonio was the last stop when in fact Seattle was the final audition city almost a month after the others, oh well. It makes for interesting entertainment watching all these train wrecks occurring and there were quite a few last night.
11,000 showed up to audition in San Antonio but only 22 received their golden ticket to Hollywood. At least we are closer to Hollywood and the top 24 so America can start voting. My fingers are ready to start their work.
Our first contestant is Brian Kyrish who chooses "Rebel Yell" to audition with. It probably doesn't matter what he chose. All Brian did was yell through gritted teeth, pump his fist, and stomp. I am not sure why the judges let it go on as long as they did. I was at No after the first word but that is me. Simon did indicate "it was a lot of shouting without a lot of melody" and was an understatement. Brian went home empty handed.
Haley Scarnato is next. A very pretty and sexy young woman for sure. The camera loves her and so the producers gave us quite a bit of info prior to her audition which wasn't necessary. The audition number was "I Can't Make You Love Me". Haley surprised me and had a good strong voice and good control. Paula really liked her, Randy indicated it was okay, and Simon indicated she lacked originality. Haley did get her golden ticket and a second chance to make an impression in Hollywood.
Jasmine Holland was there were her family who know she has want it takes (can we say enablers!). Jasmine didn't have much personality and was very quiet. I can't even remember what she sang but trust me it was pretty horrific. Jasmine was totally off key. Jasmine could sense the judge's reaction and so we get a tirade but a very controlled and quiet tirade indicating the judges are being rude, they shouldn't be so negative but does say they are entitled to their opinion but does question Randy's credentials. After leaving the room we get another tirade and has to point out Simon isn't even American, what is he French? Okay I don't like to make fun of any one but come on, French? Ryan explains he is British and Jasmine's mother pops out with then he should "fly back to British". Enough said and Jasmine is not going to Hollywood.
Baylie (come on what is with these names this season) Brown gets one helluva a lot of back story with us even visiting her at home on her farm. The big push is she is a city girl trapped in a country town life, give me a break. She is clearly the Carrie Underwood of Season 6. Baylie though can actually sing and performs well. Her audition song was "Stronger" and her voice was clear, strong and she had amazing control. I really enjoyed the performance. Simon indicated she was born to be a pop star though her voice isn't great now (which I disagree with) but will be in a few years, she is a record label's dream. Baylie gets her golden ticket to Hollywood!
Next up were cousins Akron (come on) and William or as they referred to themselves Bruce Banner and The Incredible Hulk. William or Hulk was first with a rendition of "Amazing Grace" which should go down in the record books as just plain bad! It was out of key, no melody, was so long and boring I was screaming for the judges to stop him. William took his no very well and did tell the judges his cousin was better.
Akron went with "Change is Going to Come" and did a superb job. His voice was strong, clear, and carried a nice tone. Because of something Simon said about being bored Akron launched into "Let's Get It on" and sounded even better. He received the golden ticket to Hollywood.
Sandie Chavez is ready for her close-up after we hear about her great blues voice and she once sang for the mayor of Houston. Sandie chose "Black Velvet". I don't know where that bluesy voice was but her diction sucked as I could not understand a syllable of what she was saying. She wasn't in key at all. Once again the judges did not cut her off soon enough. This was my fingers on the blackboard moment. She naturally cries at some of negative comments, the judges fight (at least Simon and Paula) but ultimately America wins with Sandie leaving empty handed.
Ashlyn (please again with the strange name) Carr 18 is next. We get her bizarre story about being beaten up in high school for having a good voice getting a black eye and a concussion (come of folks there had to be more to it then that but oh well). Ashlyn tackles "Feeling Good" (a favorite audition song this year) and to my great surprise she does have a good voice, it was actually a superb voice. The problem the judges have with Ashlyn is her weird facial expressions which I am not not sure I totally get but everyone felt they were distracting. Randy and Paula say no but Simon says yes. Simon indicates they may have been wrong so Ashlyn is called back to do another number. Her vocal performance is again outstanding but still the judges are concerned about her habits and the need to break them but Paula tells her to watch herself in the mirror and she has time. The judges reverse themselves and Ashlyn is given the gold ticket.
Jacob Tutor or as he is called "Jake the snake". I tried to block this performance from my mind because it was totally weird, creepy and utterly bad and the worst sin of how he couldn't remember the words. Jacob is told no and doesn't take it well with a lot of bleeped comments.
Our final contestant is Jimmy McNeal who goes with "Cupid". Jimmy has an outstanding voice. It was a great way to end the audition show. Jimmy is going to Hollywood.
Next week is the Hollywood auditions when we finally get to hear more of the better singers during the battle to whittle the bunch to the final 24, 12 men and 12 women.
After 7 episodes of some better bad singers we get tonight's show which is "The Worst of the worst". It should be an excruciating and funny evening.

American Idol Season 6 LA

Episode 6

Last night's audition show found us in Los Angeles and a truly bizarre evening of entertainment. We had a guest judge last night in the person of Olivia Newton-John. Poor Olivia, I just don't think she was aware of what she was getting herself involved in. The expressions on her face were truly priceless and she out niced Paula.

The funniest moment for me last night was in one of the first clip of truly bad singers and there was a guy dressed in a banana suit dancing and singing "Peanut Butter Jelly Time". I laughed out loud. I would have really liked to have seen the whole audition and the judge's comments.

The first contestant was called "Eccentric" I believe. This was one very scary individual. It is hard to even describe his audition. He came in looking like a rap star reject and threw a book on the floor and then started stripping (not very good if I have say) and then was crawling on the floor, growling and then strutting. Finally Simon yells at him to sing and I think I preferred the crawling and growling. I am not sure I even know what he sang but let's say Simon's comment of "this whole thing is horrific" was an understatement of the century. Eccentric went home without a golden ticket.

Sholandric Stallworth (male - what is with these names tonight - too many parents dropping acid I think) was next with "If Ever You're in My Arms Again" which pretty much put romantic crooners back three centuries. It was totally without a doubt appalling. It was a big fat NO!

Marianna Riccio got a back story. Marianna's mother was one of Dean Martin's "Golddiggers" which were pretty much dancers not singers anyway. Marianna went with "Should I Stay or Should I Go" and I didn't need the judges answers to that question. Olivia advises her there will be other opportunities and Simon's comment (quite funny) was "she sounds like Cher after a trip to the dentist." Of course we get the first beggar of the evening and poor Marianna got down on her knees pleading with the judges to let her go on. This portion went on way too long and then she dragged her mother in to it. Luckily the answer remained NO!

Alaina was next and went with "Feeling Good". Her back story was that she has been a struggling artist and this was her last hot or she was off to school. Alaina's voice was pleasant enough but she was totally all over the place with tone and pitch. I would have voted no. Alaina was a beggar to indicating her destiny was up to the judges. All four judges said yes.

Phuong (pronounced Pong) was next with "Dancing in the Streets". The producer's back story included the tag line that she was the female version of Taylor HIcks (oh please!) and that her mother told her that she wouldn't do well and that she is not as pretty as Katherine. The truth hurts and it is better then being an enabler like the other deluded contestants family and friends. Let us just say Pong can neither sing or dance and she gets a NO!

Brandon Rogers was up next and he is a back up singer who has performed with Christina Aguilera and Anastasia. Brandon chooses "Always on My Mind" and was pretty good. It was as outstanding as I think it should be which is probably why he is a back up singer and of course the lady judges were sighing. Simon stated "is the best of the day" (well given who we have seen) and says yes and Olivia felt Brandon in her heart but he got his golden ticket to Hollywood.

Brian Miller who tried out in Season 5 and made it to Hollywood before being cut (and yes I remembered him) was next with "A Change is Gonna Come". He has a really nice note but he way over sang the song but I think he has potential. Simon was the sole no vote so Brian gets a second change in Hollywood.

Our next contestant was one of the most shameless inclusion in an audition show every. Sherman Pore at age 64 is clearly not in the running but his back story involves a petition to let him on the show and his motivation from his wife who was battling cancer was really helped by his petition. Not to step on anyone's pain but Sherman tells the judges his wife died just two days before his audition. There is no way they could break the rules (let's say lawsuit!) but Sherman got to audition. He went with "You Belong to Me" and actually wasn't too bad but he could never be a professional singer. The judges applaud him and Simon is moved enough to shake his hand. The women were tearing up. Shameless, shameless, shameless!

Next up was a happy dating couple who met at a bus stop (whoopee). First up his Cavett (female) who sings something but I am not sure what it was and it really doesn't matter because she was hair-raising atrocious. There is a no for the first part of the couple. Darold is next with "I Wish It would Rain" while I was hoping Darold would lose his voice. Darold was worst then Cavett. It was a no for both. At least they have each other for comfort.

Eric Mueller comes in next with the back story that he has been practicing for American Idol for two years (a truly bad sign) including teaching himself to sing, scary. I couldn't tell what song he was doing but his singing was awful and he was using an incredibly bad falsetto and his diction was in the toilet. The judges ask him to sing in a lower register but still couldn't get there and then tried a third time and was improving and his diction got worse. Eric received a big fat no from the judges.

Then we got the second funniest moment of the evening. As Eric was leaving Simon was reading his profile and it is noted he taught himself to sing using Paula and Randy's DVD and starts running after him with Paula and Randy right behind him. It was another laugh out loud moment.

A total of 40 contests made it through to the next round.

Next week we have our final audition show from San Antonio, Texas.

I can't wait as we are getting closer to the Hollywood round and then to our chance to VOTE, VOTE, VOTE!

Until next week!

American Idol Season 6 Episode 5 Birmingham

I had to watch last evening's show on tape because I didn't get home from the airport until 11:00 p.m. Last night the audition city was Birmingham, AL, home of 2 winners and a 2nd runner up. 11,000 people tried out but only 20 people received their golden ticket to Hollywood.
On with the comments of last night's performers the producers allowed us to see anyway.
Erica Skye was the first contestant we viewed. I wasn't impressed by her back story which went on way too long. At least she said before her audition, if singing doesn't work out she is going to look into something in the dental field (I'm not sure I want her working on my teeth). Erica chose "Unchained Melody" as her audition song, foolish! Her performance was totally without any merit. Paula actually got up in horror and left. Luckily for us Erica was sent home packing. The only funny thing about this audition was when she left she used a gesture which Paula had to explain to Simon was obscene. The look on his face was priceless.
Next was Katie Bernard and this is a woman with allegedly two voices. Her talking voice was so obnoxiously strange it was like fingers on a chalkboard. It sounded like the mice in Disney's Cinderella. Katie chose "A House is Not a Home". Her singing voice was clearly different and easier to listen to but I just did not enjoy the performance and it seemed so strained. I am not sure if she was faking her regular voice or her singing voice but I am not sure I could handle week after week of her. She managed to get yes votes from Paula (just to irritate Simon) and Randy. Simon said no.
Tatiana (I kid you not) was next. She is only 17. I don't remember the sang she song but I did enjoy her voice. The young singers are kicking butt this season so far. She was a bit showy with her movement and gestures but she was in tune and there was great texture to her voice. Tatiana received her golden ticket.
Diana Walker is next. Being an overweight individual I just have to say, Diana being such a large woman she does not know how to dress. Her outfit was tacky and was distracting, at least to me. Clearly Diana does not understand the rules of this game, don't perform Whitney Houston. Diana went with "Saving all my Love for You" and she just could not perform the song. There was no trip to Hollywood in Diana's future and trust me we are all glad.
Bernard Williams came in next and chose "Rock With You". His voice was pretty good but I have to agree with Paula I thought he was off key as well. Paula said no but Simon and Randy gave him a yes so he gets another chance in Hollywood.
Every season we have to have someone lie about their age to try out and this season we were shown Margaret Fowler. The show spent too much time on her story and her absolutely, unbelievably, tacky, ugly, disgusting, horrible, there are not enough bad adjectives to describe this train wreck of an outfit and I will repeat it once again, people carrying excess weight can find appropriate clothing. She was all in yellow so we had to have the "Big Bird Sesame Street" theme which irritated me. I can't even remember what she sang because I was distracted by that scary outfit. Margaret couldn't sing and in the end under the questioning of the judges finally admitted to being 50! No Hollywood for "Big Bird"!
Our next contestant is probably going to be our Kellie Pickler of Season 6 - her name is Jamie Lynn Ward. We got her sob back story about living with her grandmother to take care of her paralyzed father. Then she tells the judges (tacky to ask anyway) out it happened - apparently her stepmother was cheatin' on her daddy and he wanted revenge and shot her and somehow himself causing his paralysis. I lost any sympathy for her and her family at that point. She was unremarkable to me. I liked the sound of her voice but she was incredibly pitchy. Simon said no but the other judges said yes so Jamie is coming to Hollywood!
Chris Sligh is shown next. He is a large man with lots of curly hair and states when he looks in the mirror he personally thinks he looks like Christina Aguilera, yeah right! He is full of himself to say the least. I did enjoy his answer to the question of why he was there. Chris's response was "he wants to make David Hasselhoff cry", a reference to last year's finale which Chris had to explain to Simon, priceless. Chris chose "Kiss from a Rose" which is a very difficult song and I actually thought he nailed the performance and hit the high notes. Chris got a yes from all three judges and his trip to Hollywood.
The next person we saw was Victoria Watkins and her 6 feet long hair. I felt we spent way too much time on the hair and her mother who also has very long hair. Victoria chooses "You Raise Me Up" and she was okay, not great and she clearly isn't an American Idol. She is told no to Hollywood.
Lakia Hill is next and let us just say her singing was pretty horrifying and gets a not from Randy and Simon.
Nichole (stupid spelling) is the next person who wants to go to Hollywood and she comes with her entourage all wearing "Team Nichole" shirts, heaven help us. She chooses "Something to Talk About" which I thought was an utter mess. The judges are nicer and indicates she needs work but encourages her to try again. No golden ticket for "Team Nichole" - I was jumping for joy!
The final performer shown was Brandy who has to go with "Like A Virgin", how many times must people use this song, no no no, it should be banned. Her singing was totally bad and her dancing wasn't any better, she couldn't even clap on the beat. Brandy doesn't respond well to criticism and indicates it was the wood floor throwing her off so she was given a chance to sing on the carpet and tries "Proud Mary" which was even worse then "Like A Virgin". The big fat no from the judges got a lot of back talk and expletives as well. What a wonderful way to end an audition show.
Tonight we are off to LA for more auditions. Until tomorrow.

American Idol Season 6 Episode 4 New York

Yes I know I am a day late but what can I say. I really had to review my thoughts about the New York auditions. Apparently the talent was better in New York because 35 people got golden tickets to the Hollywood.
The New York auditions were beyond strange and given some of the clip montages we didn't even see some of the worst.
In New York we had guest judge Carol Bayer Sager who actually wasn't too bad.
Our first contestant was Ian Benardo, someone who is a second rate diva to say the least. Apparently he tried out for "So You Think You Can Dance 2" and didn't make it. Ian somehow believes he is a superstar. Ian is wearing a chinchilla stole. Unbelievably, Ian chooses 'Gloria" for his audition song. Naturally he sucks the big one and he wasn't exactly singing but almost acting the song. It was totally surreal. Ian was told know and he went off on his tirade to the point security had to escort him out. We got the usual bleep, bleep, bleep words. He did throw out one amazing comments though, he indicated Hollywood is just New Jersey with celebrities. Unfortunately Ian is getting more then his 15 minutes of fame because there have been stories about him on ET, Hollywood Insider, Access Hollywood, etc.
Sarah Burgess was next. We had a long clip about her and the facet that she is seeking approval from her father because he always says he is disappointed in her. She skipped school in Ohio to come audition. This is one emotional person who cries at the drop of a hat. She does manage to pull it together and sings "Call Me". I liked her voice but she doesn't have the strength to pull this off. If she is crying at the auditions what is she going to do in Hollywood and if a miracle happens and she makes it to the top 12 she will break under the pressure. Personally I think all the judges felt sorry for her but she got her ticket to Hollywood. We then had to see her crying again and what a shameless ploy the producers did in having Ryan call her dad on his cell phone so she could confess. I wasn't moved at all.
Next up was Fania who tried miserably to sing Africa's "Toto". She was bad and her dancing movements were even worst. Fania went home empty handed with 4 nos from the judges.
Ashanti Johnson was next who apparently has been to Hollywood twice before. I did not remember her at all so she must not have had much air time because I normally recognize people who have try out before. Ashanti went with "Loving You", a pretty risky song if you ask me. Her voice was pleasant enough but I didn't think she should be passed through and luckily the judges agreed and sent her home although we had to have almost 5 minutes of her begging to get passed through again. I was over her right away.
Our next contestants are best friends Amanda and Antonella and the producers spent a lot of time following them around and great shots of them in bikini's at the beach. Amanda is first to audition but clearly the producers could see footage because the judges asked for her best friend to come in as well. Amanda and Antonella sang together (which was totally bad) and then the judges had them sing separately. Amanda chose "Crazy" and Patsy is turning over in her grave, even I could have sang the song better but somehow the judges give her that golden ticket. Then Antonella is up with "Free" and this girl can sing. I really enjoyed her voice. It was spot on. The judges also give Antonella a golden ticket but tell her she is much better then Amanda. I can imagine all the Hollywood clips we will have of these two.
Simon did throw out a line that I will remember and use in the future, he tells Antonella that in show business when someone is on the floor, kick them. I laughed out loud on that one.
We were then show Clifton who indicates he loves being the center of attention and to hear people screaming. Clifton tried to perform ZZ Top's "Tush". Well he had me screaming for relief. He simply yelled and stomped through the whole thing. It was beyond bad.
Kia Thornton was next and she went with Aretha Franklin's "Ain't No Way" and as far as I am concerned she was truly remarkable, her performance was very controlled and everything worked. The judges give Kia the golden ticket.
Jenry Bejarano was next up. He is 16. I am telling you the younger singers have got it going on. Jenry sang "I'd Give Anything" and I can't even put in words how great his voice was. We will skip Paula's clearly turned on looks (jail bait Paula). Jenry has talent and I was happy that he got his chance in Hollywood.
Nakia Claiborne is next. She was just a bit manic for me. She went with "Dancing in the Street" which was not very good. The judge's asked her to sing another song and quite frankly I couldn't really understand what she was saying or singing. It also wasn't very good. The judges tell her no and of course we get another contestant begging for a chance. Take the no and move on folks.
Sarah Goldberg is next. She had on a stupid red cowboy hot. Her audition was horrible, it was very flat and grating on the ears. Then we get the long tirade that she can't sing but the judges can teach her to sing, she can be the first American Idol who can't sing. Please......! She was a train wreck ready to happen and it crashed in New York.
Jory Steinberg is the next and she tries "Chains". Her performance was actually pretty good. I would praise her like the judges did but I felt she deserved her shot at Hollywood which she got.
We then got Porcelana and her back story about training like boot camp for her audition. She goes with "Love No Limit" which was barely okay as far I am concerned but the judges let her through to Hollywood.
We then get Christopher Henry who auditions with Kelly Clarkson's "Before Your Love". He definitely has a very high voice. Paula and Simon get into it for some reason and in the end poor Chris is sent home empty handed.
We then are subjected to Rachel Zebita who sings "Eternal Life" first and then "Get Here". I didn't like either song but somehow the judges see something I don't and gives her a trip to Hollywood. The producers probably can see the crazy train wreck about to happen.
Chris Richardson is next with "A Song for You". Chris is going to be this season's Elliot Yamin. He had a great voice. He got 4 yes votes from the judges.
We next see Nicholas Pedro who I did remember who bailed out during Hollywood week last season. Nicholas goes for "Fly Me to the Moon" and it was excellent. He gets another shot at Hollywood.
Isadora is the final contestant we get to see. Isadora attempts "Lady Marmalade" or at least I think it was that because I couldn't really understand her. She was crazy. She gets nada and is sent home to cry.
Next week we are in Birmingham. Next week we are back to just one hour for each night.
Until next week!

American Idol Season 6 Episode 3

Well happily American Idol was on last night. I always worry when there is political crap on like last night because it always tends to sabotage the evening programming. I made it back to my hotel room just in time and did my happy dance when the show started.
Last night we were in Memphis and apparently there were a few more good singers since 22 (the most so far) who were given the golden ticket to Hollywood. We naturally did not see the majority of the best instead we were shown more of the worst singers. Memphis did not disappoint as another city with the very deluded regarding their alleged talent.
First up was Frank Byers, Jr. the cheerleader and coach with the ridiculous nick name of "Frank and Beans". I won't go through the things I could say related to his performance with that nickname. I did not like his performance at all. He got the resounding no from all the judges.
Timika Sims was next. This was one very strange woman and what was up with that stare of hers. It was like she had nothing inside, the a soulless person. She was down right scary. Naturally she couldn't sing, tuneless, boring and I don't know about the rest of you but I really couldn't understand a word she said.
Christopher Rivera was the next contestant on the chopping block. What was with his clothes? I don't know where he got the idea he could sing but his murderous version of "Superstitious" was beyond horrible. It was my first fingers on a chalkboard moment of this season.
Alexis with the braces was up next and once again a contestant that I could not understand one word of her performance. She got the big no as well.
We finally got a contestant who can sing, Sundance Head. I don't know where people come up with these names. I did like his attitude, my parents were hippies and his dad was a singer with a hit song. Sundance could sing and he was the best of what was shown last night. I don't like that stupid King Tut beard he has but his voice is golden so I expect he will make it to the top 24. Sundance got his ticket to Hollywood.
Wandera was next and luckily she got the big no as well.
Our next deluded contestant was Travis McKinney who sang a song he wrote for his girlfriend. The show spent way too much time on his pre-audition. If I heard the song had so emotion once more I was going to scream. Travis was just not good, the song wasn't good, and I really couldn't understand what he was saying. I am surprised his girlfriend would like such a horrible ode to their romance. Travis went home without his golden ticket.
Danielle was up next and I wasn't impressed with her at all. Simon said no while Paula and Randy said yes even though Randy said he wasn't blown away. Danielle got her ticket to Hollywood but there is no way she will make it to the top 24.
Christopher McCain was next even though he goes by Topher (go figure). We had to go through his sad life about his wife leaving him because she was cheating and coming back again but then deciding she was happier cheating, go figure. I am not sure why he felt he could be the next American Idol but the judges felt he didn't have it so he was sent packing. At least he didn't leave anger like some of the others, he just indicated he was going to go do Karoke, get drunk, and fall off the stage since Simon told him that was what the performance reminded him of.
My favorite moment of the show came next with Janita and her "my style is very important in expressing my confidentiality". Her style was about wearing a very low cut dress to amplify her very full chest. There were moments when I thought she was going to have a wardrobe malfunction aka like Janet Jackson. I can tell you I spent the entire performance waiting for the wardrobe malfunction and trying to ignore the absolutely disgusting version of 'Disco Inferno' she was trying to do. When I get home I have to get out the original version so I can remove the memory of this performance from my mind.
Next up we have Sean Michael. The judges let him through and I just don't know what the judges were thinking about. I just did not think he could sing and he definitely doesn't have the "IT" factor Simonis always talking about.
Melinda Doolitte was next and she is a professional background singer. She had a pretty good voice but the judges were falling all other themselves about her. Simon even indicated she was in the top 2% of good singers this year. Given that we haven't seen the majority of them I can't say yes or no but I liked her voice but I am not sure she is the best but Melinda is going to Hollywood.
And finally the last deluded singer we had to put up with is Robert Lee Holmes who is confident that he sounds just like Elvis. I am not sure what rock he came out from under but his rendition of "Burning Love" did not in any way shape or form sound like Elvis. Robert gets the big fat no from the judges and America stands up and cheers.
The last contestant shown last night was Philip Stacy who missed the birth of his child because he was in line to audition. Philip didn't blow me away I think I almost agree with Simon but he wasn't as horrible as some of the others. Philip got two yeses from Paula and Randy so he is heading to Hollywood. Of course the show had to end with a shot of Philip meeting his new child, oh well.
Tonight we have two hours and they are visiting New York City. It should be one very wild night of the strange and unusual.
Until tomorrow, American Idol Rocks.

Below are some articles for your reading pleasure:

The Best of Simon Cowellisms by Roxanne McDonald
~It's an absolute, categorical never.
~I don't know what I'm doing on this show anymore…. The point you're taking is absolutely absurd.
~It was juvenile, tuneless, mediocre, and horrible.
~It was one of the strangest auditions I've ever heard in my life.
~How long have you stayed in Minnesota for?[auditioner response:6 months]Long enough.

~You have just summed up Minnesota Mate…. Even the juggling was pathetic.
~It was almost as bad as it could possibly get.
~[auditioner: I've had 10 years of training and I don't understand why they didn't tell me before….]I'll tell you why…because I wasn't your teacher.[auditioner: What could I do to improve?]Leave.
~[auditioner complains she can't sing well tonight for she has a dry throat]It's not a cold; it's not a dry throat. It's the fact you can't sing…. You could lie in a bath with your mouth open and it still wouldn't [be good].

~[auditioner complains she is sick, and hence…yup…can' t sing well tonight]Don't give it to anyone else.
~I'm not being rude, but…that was horrendous.

~[to Paula and Randy, upon an auditioner's exit]It looked like she'd been caught in a net.
~What…the bloody hell…was that?

~It was almost non-human.~First of all, you are aware that this is a singing competition….

~You look like one of those creatures who live in the jungle with those massive eyes. What are they called? Bush babies.

~Are you drunk?
~Sometimes I like to put one sugar in my coffee. That was like putting eleven…. It was a bit too sugary for my taste.

~I've heard some weird auditions, but that was perhaps the weirdest.
~It was like a one year old singing.

~[when challenged to be the auditioner's singing coach]It would be like coaching a one-legged man to win the 100-metre sprint.
~What…was…that?

~I'm not being rude, but can you shut up?

American Idol Season 6 Episode 2

Blog #2 regarding Season 6 of "American Idol" - Seattle Bites the Big One but Portland shines out

Well last night's two hour audition show from Seattle was definitely one to remember. Clearly the very deluded showed up in Seattle. I could not believe the number of crazy contestants from last night's show. It is amazing how these people can function in every day life.

Only 14 people (3 less then Minneapolis) were given golden tickets to Hollywood. In some cases I think to many were passed through (at least those the producers chose to show us).

Thomas Daniels from Portland was the first person passed through to Hollywood (go Portland) but I wasn't exactly blown away from the audition but it was horrible so I guess that is a plus.

Once again the only contestant passed through to Hollywood which I actually enjoyed was Jordan, she was 16 as well. It is interesting that so far the youngest contestants are showing the greatest potential, at least to me.

We had the brother and sister who at least were smart enough to audition separately both getting yellow tickets but I have to agree with the judges, the brother was the much better singer.

Anna, the 6' 7" contestant and her version of RESPECT (another song which should be banned) was okay but in my opinion not worth being put through.

Some of the more colorful "worst" singers passing the torch of totally deluded performers were:

Brandon - his Uncle Sam routine was way too much let alone is version of God Bless America, it was a performance which would inspire terrorists to strike us down and I am not kidding.

"The Hotness" - what was up with this woman, poor Jennifer just doesn't not have enough upstairs to realize she is just plain scary.

Amy - the crying mom whose husband doesn't support her dream, please he is the voice of reason in that family and at least he is not enabling her delusions.

Darwin or "Misha" and her I am sexy. Good Heavens, her mom is definitely enabling her weirdness.

Poor Melissa or Carlene as she wanted to be called - another scary individual

Nicholas and is horrible edition of "Unchained Melody" which the judges let go on far too long. It was so totally painful I had to mute every couple of seconds. I couldn't believe is response, "what do you mean that wasn't good enough?". Way too much espresso I think.

The producers stuck us with another geek feast of two guys who found each other in line. Both Kenneth and Jonathan go beyond being deluded. They clearly do not have a clue and if you believe them then their friends are doing them any favors by enabling their sickness. Although they believe they have good voices and amazing personalities, it just wasn't so.

I think my favorite deluded contestant was Eric the hairdresser and his really horrible Taylor Hicks imitation, it was just totally beyond bad. He needs to be put out of his misery.

We finally ended Seattle with Steven Thoen or "Red" and his delusion of how great he is - NOT!

I could believe how bad the contestants were in Seattle but there was no mistaking it. In last night's show they only showed us 6 out of the 14 which were passed on to Hollywood.

Next week there is more Idol. On Tuesday the show is only an hour from 8:00 - 9:00 a.m. (eastern and pacific). The first city up is Memphis. Should be interesting. Wednesday though we have another two hour show.

Until next week!

"American Idol" rocks!

American Idol Season 6 Episode 1

Blog #1 regarding Season 6 of "American Idol"

I was doing my happy dance last night, laughing my head off. After all these years I never get tired of watching the deluded try to get their 15 minutes of fame. Given all the early press about how bad the Seattle auditions were I just can't see how they can be worse then Minneapolis. We will of course get to watch Seattle tonight.

According to Ryan 10,000 people tried out in Minneapolis and only 17 were passed on to Hollywood, very scary.

I realize the producers show mostly the bad singers during the audition shows and throw in a few of those you were given the Golden ticket to Hollywood, we saw only 7 of the 17 that were passed through.

Of the 7 contestants shown there were only two that I actually liked, the first one was Denise Jackson (16 years old) who was the crack baby, I really enjoyed her performance and the other was Matt (also 16). The others did not impress me including the two armed services members. I really did not see what the judges saw in the Spanish woman they passed through, I didn't like any of her audition songs.

Apparently those trying out just don't pay attention to the prior seasons, why can't people remember song selection is everything and don't forget the lyrics. Good heavens, haven't they heard of writing them on their palm, arm, or even bringing in the lyrics on a sheet of paper.

Last night we had it all. The scary, the totally deluded, and the really bad. The woman who did "If I Were King of the Forest" from the "Wizard of Oz" was interesting in how she couldn't believe the judges didn't like it. I have to admire the nerve of the woman who tried to sing a Jewel song in front of Jewel and do it so horribly, it took guts.

Tonight we have the Seattle auditions and if they are as bad as rumored it should be a fun evening!