AI 8 3-26-09 And Now There are 9

There is a reason I do not like central or mountain time because my television schedule is screwed up so I missed the first half hour of tonight’s results show. This means I did not get to see the group number, the Ford commercial or Ruben.

I got back to my hotel room just as Joss Stone and Smokey were about to sing. I actually enjoyed their duet.

I was also totally surprised and totally pissed off to see Matt in the bottom 3. What is up with this America? Are you out of your f*^king mind? This was a travesty. Here is a man who can sing and he ends up in the bottom 3 while Megan cannot sing two notes in tune and she is safe. Give me a break.

I was not surprised when Scott made it to the bottom 3 so I got two out of three correct. Once again, Scott is sent to safety while Matt remains in the bottom 2. This just does not compute.

I totally enjoyed Stevie Wonder’s performance. It was spectacular.

After 36,000,000 votes, Michael is the lowest vote getter! At least America got something right.

There is no way the judges are using their save for Michael, they cannot get a unanimous vote. If Matt was the lowest vote getter, he had a chance to get the save.

I am still in shock Matt was in the bottom 3. It is crazy.

This competition is getting interesting so I think it is now how long can Megan’s look save her.

Fox is throwing me off again because next Tuesday Idol will only be 1 hour and 20 minutes. The other 40 is being given to the premiere of The Osborne’s. Please!

Until next week…

AI 8 3-25-09 A Trip to Hitsville USA or how many times can we say artistry

What do you get when you combine the most talked about singers with the most influential songs, the music from Motown and your Top Ten. THIS IS AMERICAN IDOL!

I said it last week and I will probably bitch about this the entire season it seems. I simply do not get the reason someone other then Ryan has to introduce the judges and then introduce Ryan, it is beyond over the top. It simply wastes time.

Ryan draws things out by asking Randy and Kara about the shocking elimination of Alexis Grace last week and whether it was tough. Randy says yes it was tough (what else is he going to say? I have no emotions and I don’t care she was humiliated in front of 31 million people when we told her she had a chance to be saved.) Kara also said yes-adding Alexis is a good singer she just chose a bad song.

Ryan asks Paula what she wants to see from the contestants. This ought to be quite interesting. I want to see them challenge themselves; we need to see their artistry and integrity. They need to take risks.

Ryan asks Simon if he is looking forward tonight and he responds with “I wouldn’t say I’m looking forward to it.” Buddy at least you are getting the big bucks to be there. Simon is interested in seeing how the contestants will make these classic songs their own.

Oh, let us cue a montage of Motown who is celebrating their 50th Anniversary. How exciting I am as old as Motown but I do not have any of the cold hard cash Barry Gordie has. What a bummer! The contestants are flown to Detroit for a visit to Hitsville USA. Smokey Robinson is the mentor this week and flies to LA for his chance to provide words of wisdom. NOT!

I adore Smokey Robinson but these guest mentors are just way too nice. Every contestant is wonderful, I would not change a thing, and each one will blow you away. Come on give a little help to these up and coming artists. Well I am digressing too much.

Let us get to the dishing.

Matt Giraud – “Let’s Get It On”

Matt looked great and sounded even better. I liked how he started at the piano and then at the verse got up to sing. Matt gave this a really bluesy type sound. Matt has great control of his voice and this was a spot on vocal.

Randy – what I am happy about tonight is you set the tone for the evening, the run you did at the end, your falsetto, brilliant dog, you are challenging the others and you have a chance for the top spot

Kara – I think there are a lot of girls who would love to get it on with you (Kara your voice went up quite a bit, I am sure you would be happy as well). You are coming out of your shell, I like your voice, I think you could have pushed it more as I know you have it, it was a solid performance.

Paula – you are very comfortable on stage, there was a sexy cool vibe going on, you are tasteful, classy, and spot on, you are like a well worn pair of jeans (Excuse me)

Simon – this was a brilliant song choice, it a bit corny when you came up here to us but otherwise a cool performance, this type of song suits your voice, you are one of the front-runners.

Kris Allen – “How Sweet it Is”

Kris was styling tonight. I loved the shirt. I would buy that one. I enjoyed his playing the guitar again. Kris gave another solid performance. I like how he started out a capella and then the band kicked it. The arrangement was almost “folk” like. Kris has very good control of his voice and he was spot on tonight. That ending note was superb.

Kara – the reason I love this performance is because you didn’t do Marvin or James Taylor, you did Kris. This showed artistry, you brought something different with some riffs, starting low, going high, everything was right about this performance.

Paula – you are coming into your own, you picked the right song, your personality is infectious, technically the note at the end was brilliant. I am proud of you you grow each week.

Simon – you were smart to do this type of version, my only advice is you have to believe in yourself, “to be a star you have to be conceited”, you must have self-belief to bring impact

Randy – you are very consistent, you were in the zone, it was all good

Scott MacIntyre – “You Can’t Hurry Love”

I am sorry I have to bitch about Scott’s outfit. He should sue the stylist. What was up with that ridiculously horrible outfit? Why would anyone put a paisley print shirt with a striped sports jacket? Are they nuts? I love pink but come on, pink pants, can we embarrass the blind guy when he obviously does not have a clue what clothes they are picking for him. It hurt my eyes to look at it. Why does Scott continue to pick songs, which have been sung by female artists? I hated this entire performance. The arrangement was stupid and do not get me started on all the bad notes Scott was singing. He was flat for a good portion of the song and was even worse after the honky tonk came out of the piano. On the other hand, Scott is a fantastic piano player. This is yet another mediocre performance by Scott.

Paula – you pleased both me and Simon, you brought new life to the song (what the f*^k!), I loved the beginning and then the chord change, you brought something different
Simon – You sang a line “how much more can you take” and my answer is not much, not a great version, the honky tonk, it was a wrong song choice for you, a bit cheap for me, you are choosing the wrong songs, you are not showing how you are a relevant artist today.

Randy – I kind of agree, it was like a hotel type performance, it wasn’t the right song dude, not great

Kara – I love how you brought tempo, you took liberties with the melodies and when you do that you have to nail it, some you did, some you did not, you had a great idea but the execution was not great

We then get some stupid banter between Paula and Simon although I did love her reaching under the table and telling Simon she had something for a 6 year old and gave him some crayons and two coloring books. I did actually laugh out loud on that one.

Megan Joy – “For Once in My Life”

I am really ticked off, something happened with Fox 13 in Memphis the screen went blank and Ronald was having a heart attack but it came on again just as Ryan is announcing her so I missed her video. In addition, it happened several times again. I was not very pleased.

Excuse me did Megan forget her name. What happened to Corkey? Who cares she annoys me anyway. Oh, no she has chosen a dress, which matches the color of her tattoo, give me a break. It was a horrible looking dress. What is up with these stylists? I keep saying I should have the job. This was hands down the worst performance so far this evening and I think it tops last week’s bad performance. Megan was off key. I wonder if she can even hear the music. This was just a frigging mess. The girl cannot sing two notes in a row in tune. This was my fingers down the chalkboard moment of the evening. America put me out of my misery and get rid of her.

Randy – love the outfit – dude (oh please) but the song was a train wreck, it was rushed, you were shouting, I didn’t like it.

Kara – you were all over the place, there were bad notes, the phrasing was off, the song was dominating you rather then you dominating the song

Paula – you are stunning, you are a beauty, this was all over the place, at the beginning I wanted you to raise it up a key but by the end I wanted you to lower the key

Simon – the good news is you are beautiful, the bad news is this was horrible, it was a horrible song choice, the arrangement was not good, there were terrible vocals, all over the place

Anoop Desai – “Ooh Baby Baby”

Anoop starts by sitting down stage by the stairs and the beginning notes were very sharp. I think he was holding the mike way to close to his mouth as well. There were many bad notes; the whole performance was a bit off for me. The vocals tonight were not near as good as last week. What is up with Anoop? He is just not being consistent week to week. I was disappointed.

Kara – hard song to sing, some points worked some did not, you can sing, you have skills but you need to push it more, you did a pretty good job.

Paula – you have new found confidence, your phrasing, your delivery, not only was your falsetto spot on but also sweet and tender (no it wasn’t Paula – you need to chill girl)

Simon – it was a great vocal (good heavens Simon were you drinking from Paula’s glass by mistake), my problem is you looked like you were half a sleep while singing, I did not see showmanship.

Randy – it was nice hearing you croon, there were some pitchy moments, but next week you need to turn it up, show some energy, bring it on

Michael Sarver – “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg”

Please cry me a river and are we pushing for the sympathy vote by telling us Michael was so sick he did not get to go on the trip to Detroit (I guess he should be mad at Megan for passing her illness on to him). Michael was having fun performing but I was not enjoying listening to him. I also noted he was tapping the mike, which irritates me. Michael was screaming for most of the number and he hit some really bad notes. This was just not very good. What is happening tonight? I was happy when the number ended.

Paula – it was a tough performance, it was a like a Vegas lounge act (she is booed by the audience and seems happy about it), you need to dominate the song rather then the reverse, some of the notes were not good, I still love you though

Simon – actually I couldn’t wait for it to end, you were screaming and shouting, if you want to win you can’t with a vocal like that, in the real world this was not good enough, it was below par.

Randy – it was corny, it was too much, not the right song choice, not a very good vocal

Kara – It is not about the singing (excuse me this is a singing contestant), it is about artistry, to bring that out, who are you as an artist.

Lil Rounds – “Heatwave”

Tonight Lil looked absolutely spectacular. This is the best she has ever looked. I loved the entire outfit, cool dress and her hair, accessories and shoes were killer. I only wish her vocals were as wonderful. Lil sang this song or should I say actually shouted the entire number. She was over the top and continued through the entire number. She started loud and finished the same way. There was no build, she was just there at the top and continued to rush through to the end. This could have been a perfect song for her if she had taken the time to make it special, to slow down, speed up, and to add some riffs but instead she powered through the melody by shouting. It was very sloppy. On the other hand, she has tremendous performance skills. She was having fun and playing to the audience.

Randy – you have mad, crazy vocals but the front of the song was torture, it was not the right song, it seemed liked you were rushing, you need to allow more space to the bar, not my favorite performance.

Kara – you look great, the dress, you are a beautiful girl, you were the diva tonight, this was going to be your week, I didn’t think it was the right song, you tried to remain true to the song, you were screaming, you are still a brilliant singer.

Paula – I disagree completely, you look unbelievable, what you did vocally, you owned it

Simon – it was an authentic tribute to Motown but there was no moment, I did not like the song choice, you sounded too fast, you are one of the best singers in the competition, we expect more from you

Adam Lambert – “Tracks of my Tears”

Where is the Adam I love? What a wonderful transformation? I would swear he looked like a very young Elvis. There was no make-up, no nail polish. I loved the choice of sitting in the chair with only a few members of the band. This was one freaking great performance. All I can say is wow. The performance totally rocked. Adam is a master; he has such control over his voice. What is up with that ridiculous falsetto? This was one of the most moving and tender performances ever. I was actually crying by the end because it was so emotionally raw. Adam sold the true emotion of the song. How awesome that he got the first standing ovation from Smokey Robinson and Barry Gordie, let alone the entire audience and the judging panel sans Simon of course.

Kara – I don’t usually stand but I have to for this, it was one of the best performances of the night, you bring such artistry.

Paula – you are in a complete league of your own, you have such clear instincts, your clean look, handsome, classy, element of surprise, you are exciting

Simon – I have to disagree with Kara, it is not one of the best, it is THE best performance of the night. You brought originality, it was relevant, you emerged as a star, well done

Randy – from day one I said you have the range, tonight you showed even more, it was cool, you sang such tender moments, unbelievably hot

Danny Gokey – “Get Ready”

Danny is looking very good. It looks like he ran out of new frames because he has worn those glasses before. I noticed he did not take the few suggestions Smokey made. Danny brings great joy when he is singing. He definitely was having fun but this has to be the worst vocal performance he has ever given. I do not mean it is bad in the way Megan’s was but it was not up to his usual excellent standards. It may be because he was running around and doing some of his ridiculous dance moves but he had some breath issues. There were also some pitchy moments and during the chorus, it appeared he was screaming which may have come because the band was very loud. This was sloppy. Danny is good but this was not his best vocal performance.

Paula – you are reliable and give a first class performance every week

Simon – this was clumsy and amateurish

Randy – you have a dope (this is a dumb saying Randy) voice, I loved the energy

Kara – love your personality, it was good but not great

Allison Iraheta – “Papa was a Rolling Stone”

For someone who is only 16 she was looking smoking hot. This was an interesting song choice but I think she pulled it off. Cutting a song, this long can be a challenge but who ever arranged it did a decent job. My only complaint is she forgot some of the words but covered it well. Allison can sing and vocally this was a brilliant performance. I just love how her voice sounds, that low natural growl. This was another wow moment.

Randy – check it out, you had a dopey (again with this phrase, I am going to hate it by the end of the season) swagger, blazing hot vocal

Kara – you are only 16 and you were in the bottom 3 last week, America wake up and vote for her that was amazing, you sing as if you have been doing it for 400 years, it was from God, you cannot teach that

Paula – your rocker edge was back, awesome, beautiful, amazing

Simon – you are a survivor, one of your best performances


Overall last night’s show went well. There were some very hot moments and then again, there were some really low moments. IF I HEAR THE WORD ARTISTRY ONE MORE TIME I WAS GOING TO SCREAM THOUGH.

I had another wonderful evening of power voting, 2 hours from my hotel phone and then another 2 hours from my cell phone (love my pacific coast phone number). Yes, I was up until 2:00 a.m. central time letting my fingers do the voting! I managed to get in 1,923 votes. I voted for Adam, Danny, Kris, Matt, Allison, and Lil Rounds.

Based on performances alone Scott, Megan, and Michael should be in the bottom 3.

Megan should be going home but my prediction for elimination is Michael.

Tonight’s elimination show should be interesting as Ruben is making an appearance along with Stevie Wonder doing a Motown medley and Joss Stone (she must have an album to plug) will be doing a duet with Smokey Robinson.

Until tomorrow…

AI 8 3/18/09 And now there are 10

Tonight one will fall and there will be 10 and the top 10 will be going on tour. Welcome to your results show, what have you done America. The results may shock you. THIS IS AMERICAN IDOL!

Last night over 31,000,000 votes were cast.

Cue our first montage of the night, which is a recap of last night performances.

Well it is time for the group number performing Travis Tritt’s “Trouble”. I did like how they had Scott playing the piano. I always look forward to see how they will handle this. Outside of the ridiculous background, playing this was one of the best group numbers ever.

I cannot say I enjoyed the Ford commercial but there were some funny moments.

Tonight we are getting another montage of what happens after a contestant is voted off. I really liked this one. It was both celebratory yet brought a tear to my eye. I did laugh out loud when Jorge told every one not to get comfortable because every week someone has to leave.

Ryan wastes time by talking to the contestants and what is this shameless plug of airtime for Michael? I do not need to see him tearing up because his three ½ year old daughter asked him why he did not want to live with her. Can I say sympathy vote!

I did laugh at the next montage of their rehearsal and everyone was wearing masks because of Megan’s “flu”.

It is time for some results:

Danny – safe
Lil – safe
Anoop – safe
Allison – Bottom 3
Michael – Bottom 3

It is time for Brad Paisley to plug his new song. I like Brad Paisley and enjoyed the performance.

Time for more results:

Scott – safe
Megan – safe
Matt – safe
Kris – safe
Adam – safe
Alexis – bottom 3
Allison is sent back to safety, yeah! Who is going home? We will find out after the commercial and performance by Carrie and Randy.

Well I took sucked on the bottom 3 this week only getting 1 out of 3. This is more par for the course. I guess I cannot hope America learn their lessons by reading my blog.

Carrie Underwood who looks incredible and Randy Travis are doing a new duet for the first time live on stage. I liked the song, “I Told You So”. First I cannot call it much of a duet because Randy did not sing much. Carrie sounded incredible however, she was closing her eyes quite a bit, which I just hate.

It is now time for the reveal. Michael is safe and Alexis is going home. Damn I missed on my prediction.

Will the judge’s use their save, they are considering it but only after Alexis sings for her survival.

I thought Alexis was worst tonight than last night. She was totally off pitch and some of those notes were fingers down the chalkboard.

Will the judges save her? No, Alexis is going home.

I am surprised she went so quickly given she is from the south. I am sorry it is not Megan but oh well.

Until tomorrow…

AI 8 3/17/09 Did Country Go Down in a "Ring of Fire"

When the competition began the odds were 100,000 to 1 but for these final 11 anything can happen on this stage, why – THIS IS AMERICAN IDOL!

I am saying it again the whole having a different announcer introduce the judges and Ryan is stupid. The first time I could live with it because it was the beginning of the true competition with the top 13. After the first time it is borrowing from Simon “indulgent rubbish”.

Tonight is important because only the Top 10 go on the summer concert tour.

Oh how cute, the stage turns green with shamrocks for St. Patrick’s Day – NOT!

Ryan inquires of Randy as to whether the contestants have evolved on the big stage and Randy indicates yes but the second week tends to be tough and with “country”, it could be hard for some. Kara hopes those who were great last week will be great this week. Paula is standing by her predictions from last week. Ryan points out Simon’s special love for country and Simon retorts with he does not feel 2 hours is enough, we need a whole week. LOL – NOT!

Tonight’s theme is the “Grand Ole Opry” so cue montage. Randy Travis hit the country scene in 1986 and has had 22 number ones and sold over 25 million albums. I like Randy Travis but guest judges are a crapshoot at best and when have we ever had one who told a contestant they suck when they do.

I am weary of what tonight will bring. I say let us get on with the dishing…

Michael Sarver, “Ain't Goin' Down ('Til the Sun Comes Up)”

Michael wants to serve up some Garth Brooks tonight. This was not an impressive performance at all. Michael seemed to be having fun and worked the crowd well but he was spending all of his time trying to say the words instead of concentrating on the singing. Michael had crappy enunciation. I could only understand like every other word. He was out of tune for the most part especially at the end of each phrase and he was having breath control issues. What was up with the harmonica player, it was stupid.

Randy – cool song choice, showed your fun side but did not show off your voice

Kara – you showed your personality, you did not sing any big notes and I missed that, I am impressed you remembered the words

Paula – you were having fun, I loved your artistic ability to use a harmonica player (what the f*^k!), you have charm, confidence, this genre suits you

Simon – it should have been good, I couldn’t understand a single word, you could have been chanting in Norwegian, the performance was a bit clumsy, you needed to come over as a star, you came over as karaoke country night.

Allison Iraheta, “Blame It on Your Heart”

Allison looked stunning tonight. It is hard to remember she is only 16. I love her gruff voice and it worked well with this song. It was a great song choice and allowed a little rock vibe to shine through the performance. Over all, there were great vocals but she was a little careless at the end of phrases, which caused her to go off pitch a few times. In addition, she had some breath control issues. The thing I really like about Allison is she is so joyful and natural on the stage. You cannot help but feel good when she is on the stage singing.

Kara – you could sing the alphabet, you brought your own spin to it, you made it your own, you get better and better every week

Paula – another rock solid performance, love the power of your voice and the rock edge you bring to this competition, you need to change it up a bit to show your range as an artist

Simon – it was good but a little tuneless, it looked like you were having trouble remembering the words, it was just a little precocious

Randy – it was the dope! (What the hell does that mean?)

Kris Allen, “Make You Feel My Love”

I like Kris as an artist and with tonight’s performance; he confirmed why he should be in this competition. I loved how he made himself so vulnerable just sitting on the stage, no antics. Kris provided a very tender and pure vocal. Kris was spot on except towards the end where there was a pitch issue but most people would not have heard it. My only compliant is his eyes were closed too much. If you are trying to express this type of emotion, we had better see your eyes. The young teen girls are going to go wild over Kris and eat him up.

Paula – I was pleasantly surprised, it was an honest, vulnerable and pure performance, you have to watch the low notes going off pitch, it was a smart choice of song

Simon – I thought it was terrific, great choice of song, you have complete control, it was the first time where I genuinely felt you had a chance to do well in this competition.

Randy – you went out on a limb to showcase your vocals, it was tender, you are tender dawg

Kara – it didn’t sound country, it was beautiful

Lil Rounds, “Independence Day”

Lil looked great this week and loved the killer shoes. I am not sure about the song choice because there were so many others, which would have been better. The first half of the song she was a little stiff and flat and there was some pitchy moments through out the whole thing. The great thing is Lil is a professional and she does not let things like that effect her. Once she reached the chorus, the vocals were better. I also have to give her credit because her enunciation was the best ever so far. This was clearly not her genre but she did what she could with it. A better song choice would have helped her.

Randy – it was an ambitious song choice, during the verses the vocals weren’t as good as with the chorus because you hit the power zone, I didn’t feel comfortable, it was all right

Kara – part of being an artist is standing firm with what you feel, we all know you are a great singer, the second half was better than the first, not your best performance

Paula – everything is spot on the vocals, hair, make-up and clothes, you shouldn’t have sung two verses just one, your voice makes you one of the obvious favorites

Simon – it wasn’t the right song, you came over as a girl who had to sing this song at a wedding and you were hating every moment, you looked uncomfortable.

Adam Lambert, “Ring of Fire”

I realize this is a performance above all others, which will define “love it or hate it”. I loved it. Adam did what the judges accused Lil of not doing. Adam changed up the song and made it work for him. This was an almost near-flawless vocal performance. Was it over the top? Yes. Was it somewhat indulgent? Yes but who cares when you have an artist who can take absolute control of a song and show such creativity and passion, which is why I feel it, is so brilliant. I also like alternative music. I thought this was brilliant. It was weirdly awesome but awesome none the same.

Kara – very interesting, fine, a little strange, I got the drama and I got those eyes, I kinda liked it but if left me confused and happy.

Paula – stands out, true to you as an artist, your choice of song, it was like Cashmere/Led Zeppelin, you are raising your own bar

Simon – what the hell was that? I think a lot of people are probably throwing their televisions out the window, it was absolute indulgent rubbish

Randy – it was great, it was like Nine Inch Nails does country, it was young, fresh, hot and current

Scott MacIntyre, “Wild Angels”

I hate to bash Scott but this was a terrible performance. I understand he feels comfortable with the piano but his vocals were sloppy, there were pitch issues, sharp notes and those high notes were bad. It was a shaky performance. I did not like the arrangement and I thought it was a terrible choice of song. The rule of thumb is never to sing another Idol’s hits.

Paula – tonight you gave another impressive and lovely performance, however, don’t let the piano become a crutch, it separates you from the audience (what the hell – there are lots of performers who put on concerts with the piano), we need to see you as a showman. I did love Simon’s retort, exactly what do you want him to do.

I did not need the uncomfortable banter between Simon and Paula but it is par for the course.

Simon – both last week and this week’s performance are too similar, same type of song, I like you but you need to change it up a bit

Randy – that was hot, crazy vocals (I think Randy had too much of that dope!), nice, good performance

Kara – you need to step up your game, you bring class and pose to the stage

Alexis Grace, “Jolene”

Out of all the female country songs Alexis picks the one Dolly Parton song I absolutely hate. I said the same thing last year when Brooke White chose it. Alexis looked great and for the most part the vocals were good. It was a nice arrangement but I found she was off the tempo some and had a few pitch issues. What I like about this is I thought Alexis sold the emotion of the song.

Randy – good song choice, there were pitch problems, you gave it a little bluesy feel, not a great performance

Kara – you lost your edge, it was a little flat

Paula – it was more effective than the others think, I love your artistic approach, I don’t care about the pitch problems, you showed your soft vulnerable side, you can tell a story from beginning to end

Simon – it was okay, a little bit sound alike, vocals were okay

Danny Gokey, “Jesus Take the Wheel”

What the hell was Danny thinking when he chose that jacket, come on it was totally stupid. I notice he had a different pair of glasses altogether. I am not sure I like the song choice, never pick songs other Idols have sung, it never works. The beginning of the song was very sharp and he was having problems supporting his voice. Once he hit the chorus, he could sell his belief in the message of the song. It was safe but not as great as last week.

Kara – the first half was not spectacular but when you hit your stride it is like no other, you can bring home those power notes

Paula – I disagree, it allowed you to build the story, I think not only would Carrie Underwood approve of this she would buy the record.

Simon – I agree with Paula, you needed to build, my problem is what you are wearing, it is like you are going on a polar expedition.

Randy – I agree with Kara, the verses weren’t good, you needed to support them, there were some pitch issues but you are a great singer

Anoop Desai, “You Were Always On My Mind”

Anoop made a wise choice also to focus on the vocals. Overall, it was okay, there were some severe sharp notes. This was much better than his usual wild antics.

Paula – Anoop is back, I am so proud of your interpretation, it allowed your vocals the space, it was tender, honest, sweet, it touched my heart

Simon – you went from zero to Hero, it was a good choice of song, it was my favorite performance of the night, you took good advice and delivered a good vocal, it is glad to have you back

Randy – you really can sing, I liked the arrangement, it was the dope (I am not liking this Randyism)

Kara – you took a classic song, it was amazing, the was the biggest surprise of the night, it was one of my favorite performances.

Megan Corkrey, “I Go Walkin’ After Midnight”

Well we can see what Megan is trying to sell with that dress, she wasn’t selling her vocal talents but rather her ta-ta’s. The tattoo continues to be distracting. Do not get me started on her stupid dance moves and pointing, I was laughing out loud. I thought her eye-make up was sucked. The vocals were horrid and that last note was killer bad. I do not care that she had the flu, those vocals were not good.

Randy – I am quite impressed, very good, that rocking jazz feeling, it worked for you

Kara – it was the perfect song, the perfect look (excuse me), you had the flu and yet you are here, it shows how serious you are, good job

Paula – you were in the hospital this week and weren’t able to have the final rehearsals, this was fantastic, if you are going to sound like this when you are sick, you should stay sick

Simon – I agree you are better this week then last, my problem is the stylist is sucking out your quirkiness

Matt Giraud, “So Small”

Matt is going with a Carrie Underwood song as well. I did love the arrangement and except for some very rough notes at the end, I really enjoyed the performance. It was like attending a concert. This performance was very good. Matt has grown so much during this competition and it has only been a few weeks. I think he will be a dark horse in this race.

Kara – there is nothing small about you, you are a true artist and have true talent, this was amazing and I love you

Paula – I love your authenticity and honesty, you delivered unparallel vocals, great song

Simon – I don’t think you have been given enough credit for your vocals because of the focus on Danny and Adam but you out sang Danny tonight, you remind me of Michael Bauble, best of the evening

Randy – the was my favorite of the night, you have mad skills, you have it going on

Country night was not as bad as I thought it would be but it still was not stellar. I certainly do not think Randy Travis offered many suggestions and his comments did not match the performances I was watching.

I was able to vote for 4 hours last night, two hours on central time using my hotel room phone and then two hours on Pacific Time via my cell phone. I was up to 2:00 a.m. central voting. I managed to put in 1,865 votes. I voted for Adam, Danny, Allison, Lil, Matt and Kris.

Predicting the bottom 3 will be interesting because you have to start thinking about who might have a voting block, etc.

America has seemed to be voting based on performances so tonight I am going for Scott, Michael and Megan in the bottom 3.

I would be fine if any of them go, tonight but I think Scott and Megan were tied as the worst but I believe Michael will be going home.

Until tomorrow…

AI 8 3/11/09 and there are now 11

Your top 13 have made it this far but for two of them their journey will end tonight. This is your results, what have you done America and what is this new rule. THIS IS AMERICAN IDOL!

Last night America cast 33,000,000 votes, the most ever for this soon in the competition.

What is the new Rule? The judges save! The judges can save one contestant from elimination up to the Top 5 but the decision must be unanimous and used only once during the entire season. On the next show after the save, two contestants will go home. I can live with this. It will add some drama to see if, for whom, and when the judges might use this save.

It is time for the group medley and for tonight, it is the hits of the Jackson 5. Overall, I thought they did a good job. I love watching how they get Scott moved around. Danny has not learned to dance since last night his moves were dumb.

Cue the first montage of the evening, which naturally are the highlights from last night’s show.

How exciting, it is time for the first Ford commercial of the season with the contestants. The tune used was “We will Rock you”. It was not too bad.

Time for the first elimination:

Michael – safe

Allison – safe

Jasmine – is sent center stage

Matt – safe

Kris – safe (yeah)

Megan – is sent center stage

Jasmine and Megan, one is safe one is going home. Megan is safe (damn I am stuck looking at her tattoo).

Jasmine is going home unless the judges use their save. Poor Jasmine has to sing again and perhaps because the pressure was off she sounded better than last night.

Ryan goes to Randy for the answer – “Jasmine, sorry girl you are going home”. Ronald is now one for one in his predictions for the elimination.

Next up is a performance by Kayne West of “Heartless”. I only ask what the point of this is. Oh yes, it is a frigging waste of time and I did not like the performance at all. Pull up your damn pants.

Time for the second elimination:

Scott – safe

Alexis – safe

Danny – safe

Anoop – is sent center stage

Adam – safe

Jorge – is sent center stage

Lil – safe

Anoop and Jorge, one is safe, one is going home. We will find out who after the commercial and Kelly Clarkson.

Idol is bringing back all the idols and they are kicking it off with Kelly. I love Kelly Clarkson and she rocks the house. Hot, hot, and hot! She showed Kayne what a real performer is.

It is time for the announcement, Anoop is safe and Jorge is going home depending on whether the Judges use their save. Please note Ronald is two for two in his predictions. Jorge gets another chance to sing and I still was not impressed.

Ryan goes to Simon for the answer will Jorge be saved? Simon responds – NO!

Jorge’s journey ends tonight.

Please note I successfully predicted who would be in the bottom 4 and who would be eliminated. I rock if I say so myself and I will.

There are now 11.

Until next week…

AI 8 3/10/09 Let The Fun Begin

The semi-final rounds are over and the wild-card episode, we now have our Top 13 and everything starts tonight on the big stage – THIS IS AMERICAN IDOL!

I totally was digging the new stage set up for Season 8, it was spectacular and I am down on my knees in thanks that they got rid of the “mosh pit.”

What was up with the big announcement (by someone other than Ryan) for the judges, come on it was ridiculous. The big opening and the judges coming out like the second coming of a deity. Give me a break. We then get an announcer announcing our host. This was just way too over the top for me.

Ryan then asked the judges what they were expecting tonight from the contestants.

Randy – you have to bring it hard every time

Kara – we are going to have to be tough, we need to pick the best (hey you do not get to pick – maybe but more about that later).

Paula – you must not be afraid to use the stage

Simon – you can’t forget the words, you have to prove you will not be swallowed up by the stage.

Ryan then asks Simon what will be happening. Simon explains two contestants will be going home so there will be more pressure on you to deliver. What a surprise there will be two eliminations – NOT! There are only so many weeks and the season finale was not pushed back.

Tonight’s theme is the Michael Jackson song catalog. My first thought is Michael is hard up for cash baby! Cue montage about Michael and the amount of records sold. Enough all ready, let us get to the heart of why we are here.

Lil Rounds

Lil is going with “The Way You Make Me Feel”. She starts out on the stairs and before we get to her singing let us discuss her outfit. Where did that top come from, did she cut it off an old prom dress, it was ridiculous and was not very flattering. Do not get me started on the way too tight white pants which from the rear made her look like she has one hell of a caboose. Totally digged the killer shoes though. In the end, there were some good vocals but I was not blown away. My first problem was her enunciation, which was poor. My second issue was it appeared she was shouting the entire song, not singing it. My third issue is she seemed to be working so hard to hit the notes she totally lost the connection to the song she was not selling it. I will give her credit for the energy she was giving and the last note was exceptional. This was just okay.

Randy – this is the way to kick off a new season, you made the song new again, you have it

Kara – perfect, wow, you stepped it up, you are great, the end note was beautiful, good job girl

Paula – I love the softer palette color, kudos to the glam squad (Paula you need to take something); you are a force to be reckoned with. Your falsetto is like angels singing.

Simon – it was good, it was a lazy song choice, the second half was better than the first, I hate what you are wearing (I second that emotion).

Scott MacIntyre

Very interesting that Scott’s sister is also visually impaired. I loved that Scott used the word practically blind when talking in his video while he parents refer to him as visually impaired. Scott chooses “Keep the Faith” which is an interesting choice but what a statement and pull to the audience. Scott is playing the piano and this clearly gives him much more comfort and loosens him up a bit. I do not think he is a good singer; there were some really harsh notes and severe pitch issues. He managed to hit the last high note but there was still something off about it.

Kara – she asks if he just learned the song this week and he answers yes. She is happy to see him behind the piano again, it shows us a different side of you, this was a great message, very hopeful, it was not the most dynamic vocal performance but you stay true to yourself every week.

Paula – it is really magical to see you at the piano, she then gives a shout out to the composer of the song who is in the audience

Simon – I apologize then to the composer because I hated the song, no one knew it (not true Simon I certainly knew it), Scott says something about wanting to show an artistic side and Simon retorts “not on this show” – what the f*^k? I like you, you are a good singer (excuse me), the song choice did you no favor.

Randy – he tells the composer he likes her “Man in the Mirror” better. It was a very safe old-fashioned song, I want to see more sparks

Danny Gokey

How many different colored frames for his glasses does this guy have? He has been wearing a different color every time he has performed. Danny has gone with “P.Y.T.” (Pretty Young Thing). I totally loved how he started the song out and then mixed up the tempo and the entire arrangement. Danny is very comfortable on the stage and he sold the song, he had a few bum notes but he covered it up and moved on. I love how his energy is so infectious. He has a very powerful voice. The ending note was spectacular. His dance moves on the other hand were ridiculous.

Paula – way to go, the true mark of an artist is if you can close your eyes and hear who they are, you have a gift, way to go

Simon – the vocals were brilliant, you are one heck of a singer, you are like Michael McDonald a white guy with soul, the dancing was hideous, but it was terrific.

We then get Danny saying he knows he has trouble singing and moving and asked if they could have a choreographer to help them with their movements and Simon offers Paula. LOL!

Randy – I am looking to see different sides of you each week to see your range and this up-tempo worked, I loved it all even the dancing because it had passion and was not choreographed

Kara – you have joy on the stage

Michael Sarver

Michael wants to show off his sensitive side and goes with “You are not Alone”. Michael started sitting down and for me this was boring, he did not do much with the song. For the most part, he had good vocals. The first half was better than the second was. There were some off notes and he had problems with the key change. In the end, he was also having breath control issues. I will give him credit for his passion. He sold the emotion of the song. He did much better than I thought he would.

Simon – you are not the best singer but you made up for it with passion and heart, you gave it 110 percent

Randy – you returned a little to the R&B side, best we have seen from you

Kara – tonight you showed me you can really sing, great job

Paula – you are likeable, regular guy, extraordinarily talented, you picked the right song and colored it up, you sounded lovely

Jasmine Murray

I so hated her dress. Jasmine goes with “I’ll Be There”. Let us just say Jasmine sounded very nasally. There were some really horrible sharp notes she was just not consistent. This was also boring because she labored over each word, which helped her diction but made the song plod along. She hit the one big money note but it was still sharp.

Randy – I know they will hate when I say this but I produced this song for Mariah, you mixed both her version and Michael’s and I am impressed, it is a tough song to sing, you did a pretty good job

Kara – I think you should have used a ½ key lower, you sold it, you have stage presence

Paula – you showed poise, there were some bright moments but when going into the chorus you were under the notes, overall way to go

Simon – good attempt at control, the end was good, it was way too robotic, you need to lighten up and act your age, you were like a little girl trying to be a grown-up

Kris Allen

Kris looked comfortable and natural on the stage. He is playing the guitar. Kris goes with “Remember the Time”. I really liked this upbeat rendition. Kris was having fun, there was energy and he has charisma. Kris has a strong voice but he had some pitch issues. Overall, I enjoyed the performance.

Kara – the girls love you, I am happy to see you with the guitar, it brings out a whole other side of you and helped your performance, there were a few notes which were off. She adds how cool was it you were helping all the other contestants this week, props, it shows what a great guy you are

Paula – you were engaging, adorable, sexy (Paula keep your hands off the contestants)

Simon – I am not sure the song choice was good for a guitar, interesting performance, the vocals were okay but your movements a little clumsy. You are likable. I probably would not have shared information about my wife so soon in the competition

Randy – interesting song choice, it was very Jason Mraz like

Allison Iraheta

Allison is going for the rocker look. I am not sure I really liked how she was put together but her vocals on the other hand were pretty awesome. Allison chose “Give In to Me”. It was an interesting choice. I realize it was the whole rocker thing but her enunciation was horrible but she has a powerful voice. There were some sharp notes but had great stage presence. I think at the beginning the band was overpowering her.

Paula – it is mind boggling you are only 16, you have such poise, you are a rock star, your hair looks great

Simon – it was a good performance, we know who you are but you need to lighten up a bit, good

Randy – when you got it, you got it, you could sing anything, you are one to watch

Kara – you have distinguished yourself

Anoop Desai

Oh, my Anoop is going with “Beat It”. I found this to be bland, bland, and bland. It was a totally karaoke version up to and including the jacket he was wearing, come on. I will give him credit for his energy, however his dance moves bordered on childish. Anoop also had some very sharp notes in there. The whole thing turned me off.

Paula – I love you, this is one of those untouchable songs, this was a bit karaoke – audience boos and Paula seems to be thrilled she was booed.

Simon – I thought it was horrible, there was no aggression, it was lightweight, you looked stupid, it was like a bad impersonation

Randy – it was the wrong choice, karaoke, you have more to give

Kara – there was no variation, not riffing, you seemed disconnected

Jorge Nunez

Jorge is going with “Never Can Say Goodbye”. This is a very interesting song choice especially given the title please do not tempt fate. I hated this entire performance. Jorge was trying so hard to sing without an accent, every note was labored, he had no stage presence because he was not there, and there was no connection. The song started bad and there were some very sharp notes. Jorge did nothing special with the song. It was not memorable.

Randy – this is not the song I would have chosen, you have the vocal chops, you have a nice upper range, there were pitch problems, it was old-fashioned

Kara – you were not emotionally connected, I did not feel it, a better song choice for you would be “She’s out of My Life”.

Paula – I have mad love for you (no Paula you are just mad – let us say it together sexual harassment), this was not right for you. She asks him why he chose it and he said he didn’t want to sing “Bad” and Simon retorts “you sorta did”.

Simon – it was corny, you were out of your depth, the arrangement was awful, it was so old-fashioned, I couldn’t wait for it to end.

Megan Corkrey

Megan just does not know who she is. She is dressed like a very sweet young thing, the hairstyle and the little red sun dress with the white straps as if she was off to a spring church function and then we are faced with that tattoo on her arm. I am so distracted by it. Please wear a dress with a sleeve. Out of all the songs, possible Megan goes with “Rockin Robin”. Give me a break! Once again, Megan is all over the place, I do not think this girl can hit two notes in a row right. The ending note was my fingers down the blackboard moment of the night. I am truly disgusted with her stupid dance movements give it up girl. The best (LOL) moment is her “cawing” at the end, yes “cawing”. Megan this was stupid and Robins do not make that sound.

Kara – you have your signature style, you are so Megan (Randy adds She’s so Megan), you have personality but you need to show more range

Paula – I love the quirky unique tone of your voice, you are gorgeous

Simon – we like you, it was a stupid song choice, the dancing was ridiculous, the whole performance was clumsy, if this was the first time you were seen America would say we were nuts to put you here (as far as I am concerned you are nuts, she should not be here)

Randy – this was not the right song choice, it didn’t allow you to be Megan

Adam Lambert

I said after his audition in San Francisco he was one to watch and tonight Adam blew the roof off this competition. This performance was bar none the best of the night. I am not totally enamored of Adam’s look as it is a bit Goth for me but the man can sing. I thought Adam’s choice of song was very inspired. Given the gossip and speculation about his sexual preference, this song was so perfect given the message. I loved the arrangement and Adam was confident, energetic, and smooth. The way he casually went over, shook the hands of the rapid female fans in the front row, and then seamlessly moved back - cool! Adam has charisma and he owned that stage. He nailed this number. I have already downloaded this from iTunes. There was real passion and connection in selling the number. I loved it, loved it, and loved it. Unless something goes horribly wrong, we might be building up to the Danny and Adam show.

Paula – shouts to Adam over the very thunderous applause from the audience – “Take it all in!” This is my opinion but in the history of the last 7 seasons, we have never had a contestant who is so comfortable, so seasoned step on the stage, I didn’t even see the stage I was so transfixed on you, you have an innate ability to mirror fashion and music, you have the whole package, we will see you in the finals

Simon – this was in a different league then what we have heard here tonight, you are comfortable, original, the vocals were terrific

Randy – you are the most current, you could go in and record a record right now and it would soar to the top, loved it, you got it

Kara – what more can I add except you hit notes I didn’t even know were possible, I hope Michael is watching tonight

Matt Giraud

Matt has ditched the hat – yeah! Matt is going with “Human Nature”. Matt is also playing the piano and he really looks comfortable. I really liked what Matt did. He has a very cool falsetto. There were a few bum notes but again he is a great performer because he moved on without any issues. I have to agree it was like being at a concert. He reminded me of Billy Joel.

Randy – good performance, there were some pitch issues. You have that Robin Thicke, Justin Timberlake vibe

Kara – you are a talented guy, I hope to see you for weeks to come

Paula – talented, sexy, authentic, you blew me away (Paula rein it in)

Simon – good solid performance, it was like good meat and potatoes – what?

Alexis Grace

Oh my, is Alexis channeling Haley Scranato with those short shorts. She also had killer shoes. Alexis definitely looked hot. She is going with “Dirty Diana”. I think she is taking the judges comments to dirty it up just a bit too far. The background singers and the band were overpowering her quite a bit. I think she started way too low. Her performance was hot but she had some problems with pitch and she lost control towards the end, it was as if she ran out of breath. I also had problems with her diction. Alexis though knows how to sell the song and so overall, I enjoyed the number.

Kara – you are back, you are a naughty girl and I like it

Paula – fantastic, watch the over singing

Simon – over the top, not as good as you think it was

Randy – good, not great

I went out to dinner with a friend and I loss track of time so I did not get home until almost 9:30. I came in just before Megan started singing. Once the show was over, I had to rewind my tape to watch the beginning. This affected the number of votes I was able to make.

I have to say this was one of the best opening shows for the final contestants in a very long time. There were some missteps but overall some great talent.

The reason they had to pick a different number for the 13th contestant is because 1 866 IDOLS 13 is a phone sex line. You have to love the irony of this and all the effort they made to ensure people remembered to call the right number!

I am somewhat concerned about the whole announcement where the rules are going to change, changes, which involve the judges and could turn the competition around. The novelty of this show is America is picking the winners but if the judges are going to start having a say it will change the tone of the show.

I was thinking perhaps they will be able to give immunity one week and then the next week two have to go but that would get complicated. I am truly worried about this.

I managed 525 votes with the majority going to Adam and Danny along with Kris and Allison.

We have been told already that two contestants should be getting the boot so I am anticipating a bottom 4 to up the suspense.

Based on performance alone I would put in the bottom 4 Scott, Jasmine, Megan, and Jorge.

I cannot imagine America kicking out a blind singer the first week so I am going to predict a bottom 4 of Jasmine, Megan, Anoop and Jorge. I am worried about Kris but I believe his performance should give him at least another week.

I am predicting Jasmine and Jorge will be heading home tonight.

The results show is on at 9:00 p.m. so we can compete against “Lost”. Kayne West and Kelly Clarkson are supposed to be on the show. I am hoping they are not doing a duet.

Until tomorrow…

AI 8 3-5-09 The Bakers Dozen Revealed

Nine contestants have earned their places in the top 12 and tonight eight more have one last chance to convince the judges they should have a spot. Welcome to the wildcard episode, this is AMERICAN IDOL!

We have not had a wild card episode since season 3 and that show gave us Jon Peter Lewis. Let us hope tonight will not repeat that horrible mistake.

The judges hold all the power tonight and America will have to live with their decision so I am only praying those decisions are correct.

We have eight singers who must prove their worth. Tonight they must sing for their survival. Let us get to the dish.

Jesse Langseth

I learned in cyberspace Jesse is the sister of Grammy-winning blues man Jonny Lang. Jesse is going with “Tell Me Something Good”. Jesse looked great and I loved her outfit but this was a very strange performance. She used a very weird key and had some pitch issues. I did not like how they cut the song because it was really disjointed. Jesse was better than her prior performance but she did not blow me away. It was okay.

Randy – props for an interesting song choice, there were some interesting note choices

Kara – there were some off key notes, you had your swagger back, you came alive, Sasha Fierce

Paula – I love your tenacity and determination, you are unique, I was impressed

Simon – you were a lot better than the first time but I found the song and performance very indulgent but you have a good voice.

Matt Giraud

I loved the outfit but hated the hat (lose it Matt), it appears he was trying to channel Justin Timberlake’s look including the shape of the hair on his face. Matt chooses “Who’s Loving You”. I loved this performance and it was the best of the evening in the end. Matt had total control of the stage and he sounded great. I think Matt totally killed this number. Matt redeemed himself and he so deserves to be in the top 12. I have already downloaded this from iTunes.

Kara – thanks for bringing back the bluesy soulful Matt, you can riff amazingly, though some were over the top at times, great vocal.

Paula – this is the right zone for you, perfect song, amazing job

Simon – million times better than before, great choice of song, I hate what you are wearing, you reminded me a little of Taylor Hicks (excuse me, where did that come from).

Randy – you have the other wild carders scared, that was hot

Megan Corkrey

I liked Megan’s outfit but for some reason her arm tattoo is very distracting to me. Megan in her video intro explains she wants to sing the “jamziest” song ever. PLEASE, this was just dumb. Megan goes with “Black Horse and a Cherry Tree”. My baby Katharine McPhee killed this number during her season and trust me Megan did not even come close to killing this. I personally feel this performance was worst than her last one. It was all over the place and can we just say that last note was incredibly horrible and leave it at that. In addition, Megan has the stupidest dance moves (where is the Taylor Hicks reference now).

Paula – you are beautiful, you picked the right song and just like your middle name you have a lot of joy (give me a break), I had fun watching you

Simon – I have always liked you, your terrific, your current, original, not the best vocal though

Randy – I agree it is not the best vocal but you are back in the right range, nice song choice

Kara – we need you here for variety, you are different, unique

I do not get why the judges love her but oh well.


Von Smith

Von chooses “Sorry seems to be the Hardest Word”. This started very rough but about half way through he found the balance and he ended on a high note, literally. Von does have a beautiful tone to his voice and he can sing but I do not think this performance is going to help him tonight, which is a shame.

Simon – I love that song but it didn’t start well, it was a bit boring, I am not crazy about it

Randy – there were pitch issues

Kara – I am not crazy about the song, it was very dark but you have great vocal ability

Paula – I have been studying how you perform and it appears when you are trying to be too technical, thinking about each note you get lost but when you let go you soar (oh my god I think this is the most lucid and constructive comment Paula has ever made in 8 seasons – I wonder if they changed her meds)


Jasmine Murray

Jasmine looked great tonight and she had a killer outfit. Jasmine is going with “Reflection” and overall does a nice job. She is better than her earlier performance. There are some really bad notes but when she is good she is great. She had good control of her voice and definitely showed some belting ability.

Randy – 100% improvement, I think the song was too big for you but there were some bright spots

Kara – I am confused, I didn’t know you had that big voice

Paula – you look lovely, you picked a beautiful song, there were some notes which fell off but you are determined, wonderful job

Simon – you are pretty special, very brave song choice, put yourself back in the running

Ricky Braddy

Is it just me or did Ricky borrow some colorful skinny jeans from Nathaniel and he also visited Von’s hairdresser. I thought Ricky did a great job, he is a brilliant singer and he was really having fun on the stage.

Kara – you can sing your butt off, you showed your personality, good job, you held your own

Paula – you surprised me, you really loosened up, you nailed it, it was fun, you sounded good

Simon – you sounded good, showed some personality but it was a little karaoke, I was disappointed.

Randy – you can really blow but the song was self-indulgent

Histrionic Hyena (HH)

I realize I am totally biased here but her intro video was ridiculous, with all that love everyone, blah, blah, blah – I don’t given a f*^k! HH was wearing a very ugly dress as well. I cannot believe the woman chose the same song, which America clearly did not like. She goes with “Saving All My Love for You” and it was a train wreck. The beginning was way off key (I loved her excuse I could not hear the music at first). HH was living up to her name with the over the top emoting of each little syllable. I will give her props for diction because I could at least understand what she was singing. This was one of the greatest clichéd performances on American Idol bar none.

Paula – I am confused, where did the accent come from, I am not a fan of repeat songs, you started shaky, you didn’t show us anything new but you can sing

Simon – we have heard this three times and he asked why she picked this and HH replied I could not get a new song released in one day and Simon retorted with “rubbish”.

Randy – it started rough, there were good moments and not so good moments

Kara – this is like “The adventures of Tatiana”, you bring a new personality, I am confused

Anoop Desai

Anoop also chooses a song he did he Hollywood, “My Prerogative”. Anoop was visibly nervous and his vocals were good but he has sounded better. He seemed to be having fun but his stupid moves have to go. I found the backup singers were singing more than Anoop.

Simon – this is a strange night, you are like some enthusiastic dog, you are not the best singer but people like you, we will have to review everything because we are casting the next step

Randy – this was better than when you sang it before

Kara – the best you have done, I don’t like to dance but you made me feel like I wanted to get up and dance along with you

Paula – you are becoming quite a showman, where did those nasty moves come from, everyone loved the performance (I do not think so).


It is time for the big reveal.

Jasmine is up first and Randy says that after heavy deliberation, he is sorry that…Jasmine will be seeing more of the judges because she is in. Great fake out, NOT!

Ricky is next and Kara tells him he did not make it.

Megan and HH are brought up together and Paula tells them that this show is a platform unlike any other this is not the end. Megan you are through to the top 12.

THE ANGELS WERE SINGING IN HEAVEN AND RONALD WAS OUT OF HIS CHAIR WITH A WHOOP AND DOING HIS HAPPY DANCE! HH SHOT HERSELF IN THE FOOT AND SHE IS HISTORY. I AM STILL IN SUCH A GREAT MOOD ABOUT THIS. I CANNOT EVEN PUT IN WORDS HOW THRILLED I AM ABOUT THIS OUTCOME.

Naturally HH cannot go quietly and her collapsing by the judges table was ridiculous and Paula telling her they love her, I so do not f*^king care. Enough with this drama! Do not get me started on the whole Ryan and the down on the knees sexual innuendo bordering on sexual harassment bit. It probably was not meant that way but it sure came across that way.

Jesse and Von are told they are not through.

We are now down to Matt and Anoop. Simon tells Matt he is through. Then he suddenly says they have been thinking about this for a while and are pleased to announce we are going to have 13 finalists, you are through Anoop.

I believe if America had voted in Anoop rather than Michael Sarver in Round 1 we would not be having a Baker’s Dozen.

I suppose it was an interesting twist and I wanted to laugh when Ryan asked this is the first time ever. You idiot you have been there for all 8 seasons and you cannot remember there has never been 13. We began with 10 finalists and in the 4th season, we moved to 12.

One of these Baker’s Dozen Finalists will be the next American Idol:

Danny Gokey
Alexis Grace
Michael Sarver
Adam Lambert
Allison Iraheta
Kris Allen
Scott MacIntyre
Lil Rounds
Jorge Nunez
Jasmine Murray
Megan Corkrey
Matt Giraud
Anoop Desai

Overall, I think this is a great group of finalists and I am happy the judges did not just pick three female singers to balance out the numbers.

Until next week…

AI 8 3-4-09 And there are now 9 or the night Ronald lost Control

You control their destiny, who did you choose America? THIS IS AMERICAN IDOL!

It is another results show and the tension is flowing – NOT!

Cue first video providing us with one last (AS IF) of this group’s journey to night. It just continues to be a time waster.

Next up is a group number. Tonight we are attempting “Hot and Cold” and overall it was not too bad. The group did seem to have some good harmonies and it was fascinating to watch the choreography especially what they did with Scott.

I am telling you I am right, FOX needs some revenue since Ryan once again had to tell us to watch the commercials very carefully in order to catch a hidden Audition. It really cannot be hidden when you start it off with the American Idol Theme. It was not exactly a stellar audition and to the “Theme from The Jefferson’s – Moving on Up” – PLEASE!

Cue next montage of last night’s audition highlights – I am not sure why this is needed since I watched it already.

The first contestant to advance to the top 12 is Lil Rounds. This really surprised me. LOL!

Arianna, Taylor, Alex, and Kendall did not make it through to the top 12.

Scott MacIntyre is there and was not again it is anti-climatic. I do have to say Scott’s performance tonight was much better then last night.

Nathaniel and Kristen are the next two to get the bad news. It is then Felicia and Von’s time to get the bad news.

Finally, we have Ju’Not and Jorge waiting for the final spot and Jorge gets the good news as he is now in the Top 12.

Ronald called all three correctly and ultimately he was right about seven of the nine.

Now the nail biting begins because the judges are going to announce the eight contestants who get a second chance to sing for their lives tomorrow night in the Wild Card round. The judges have deliberated and made their choices. We were advised during the commercial break a last minute change was made.

The wild card contestants are as follows in the order they were announced:

Von Smith

Jasmine Murray

Ricky Braddy

Megan Corkrey

HH - I knew those frigging producers were going to do this because I do not believe THAT for a second it was the judge’s decision. Ronald blew a gasket and I am surprised there wasn’t a 9.0 earthquake by the time I was finished yelling and screaming and using some very choice and color words all with a combination using f*^k. I threw a few things across the room as well. Do not get me started on her phony reaction? Oh what the hell I am never seen such a totally faked put on reaction as that from HH. I did not believe one moment of her reaction, it was to well rehearsed and the all most falling to the ground – give me a frigging break. Her taste in wardrobe has not improved, that was a totally ugly dress and very unflattering. Naturally, she was not wearing a bra. This way she can practice getting votes the only way she can by using her body.

Matt Giraud

Jesse Langseth

Anoop Desai

I can live with all the other choices except HH. There is a couple I would swap out but overall this is a great group for the Wild Card. My concern is the judge’s decision. We already have six men in the top 12 but only 3 women. How will this affect their outcome?

I am not sure how I will handle HH being in the top 12. It will mean that everyone must take on the chore of defeating her next week. We cannot let her make it to the Top 10 because she will go on the tour and this will not happen while there is breath left in my body.

Until tomorrow…

AI 8 3-3-09 Semi-Final Round 3 or did I really Step Into a NEW AGE growth Class

Our final group of 12 is performing for their lives. It is now or never for some of them. Ryan explains they have let their families behind and put their lives on hold, THIS IS AMERICAN IDOL!

Last night’s episode was surreal in the extreme but we can get to my thoughts on the atmosphere of the show later. We need to dish about the contestants.

The theme continues to be Billboards’ Top 100 or why contestants have such a hard time in selecting the right song. Perhaps it is because there were so many to choose from the list.

I did have to laugh out loud when Ryan and Simon were going at in relationship to song selection and Simon indicated there should be a Simon Cowell week where he gets to choose each contestants song to perform. My gut tells me it would be a good week; I think he has great instincts for choosing the right song.

Von Smith

Von was looking good and I loved he coordinated his shoes with his shirt because it shows style. Von goes with “You’re All I Need to Get By” and he surprised me. I could tell he had a great voice but this was a truly great performance. It was the best lead off performance of any group. Von had control of his vocals and he hit virtually every note. Von was having fun on stage and seemed very comfortable; he did really look like a seasoned performer. My only issue were his cheesy facial expressions, come on Von they were not needed. I really loved the interesting arrangement and interpretation of the song. Von deserves to be in the top 12 based on talent alone but I am afraid he was first and America will forget about him which is really too bad.

Randy – great way to start the show, very hot performance, better then we have seen you, you are finding yourself

Kara – you are coming into your own, you seemed very comfortable up there, you really listened to our advice and went for it

Paula – it is hard to go first but this was a memorable first performance, you know when to pull back and when to push forward, you are very seasoned, I loved it

Simon – I am not sure how you will take this but you remind me of Clay Aiken, your dress sense, your voice and performance. You sang very well and I believe this Clay Aiken likeness will serve you well.

Taylor Vaifanua

Taylor looked great however; her outfit was ridiculous and very distracting. I cannot believe her mother would let her out on stage in that get up. The beginning of the song was a horrible train wreck but she did rally for the money note. This was just okay for me; it was rather boring especially at the beginning. The backup singers were over powering her as well in some spots.

Kara – you obvious have a voice, you hit the notes and aside from a few issues (excuse me), you have talent, I wanted to see more of your personality and who you are as a person, what is it like to go shopping with you, I had no insight, you left me cold. (More about this later but who frigging cares who they are as a person if they have the vocal chops to be the next American Idol).

Paula – you have a beautiful gift, I was confused because you sang the same song you did in Hollywood, you needed to take a chance

Simon – I don’t get the shopping comment and then asks Taylor what kind of cereal do you like? My problem is you are not memorable, you are very generic, bland, you struggled tonight.

Randy – you have a great voice but you did not share anything that is special about you, it was boring

Alex Wagner-Trugman

Poor Alex and his I do not want to be known as the dork so I am going to the gym to bulk up, give me a break. To borrow from the judges, be who you are! It was also strange he offered to be a boyfriend for a night for anyone in a long-distance relationship – what is that about? I think Alex knew he had a slim chance so he just wanted to stand out in a crowd, which he did, but not in a good way. Alex chooses “I Guess That’s Why They call it the Blues.” I love this song but Alex did not do it justice. This was a totally weird performance and his dancing was crazy. The very beginning of the song you could hear his voice and it was very nice but then he did that strange key change and started growling really just shouting the rest of the song. He also threw in some unnecessary runs, scary! Nothing works in this performance at all.

Paula – you are definitely a showman, you gave us our moneys worth, (then Simon and Paula got into some stupid discussion – shut up already) you were entertaining, fun, I am glad you got to channel your inner rock star.

Simon – you were fun to watch but not to listen to, you were growling, you are a hamster trying to be a tiger, it didn’t work and when the audience booed him Simon bit back with “May I remind you that on this show we do not allow democracy!”. I laughed out loud with that retort as well.

Randy – it was crazy, you were screaming it instead of singing it

Kara – you do you, you are a fun guy, “you can’t pay for that kind of choreography” (naturally, because it sucked), if you get to come back you need to ditch the growl.

Arianna Afsar

Arianna is very cute so deal with it girl! I also liked her simple outfit. For some very strange and unknown reason Arianna chose an ABBA song, “The Winner Takes It All”. I totally adore ABBA, Meryl Streep nailed this number in “Mamma Mia” singing it with all her heart and soul, and it literally brings me to tears every time I hear it. Arianna is too young to understand and project the feelings of lost this is about. On top of it her vocals were f*^king horrible. Arianna was clearly nervous and her voice cracked and wavered at the beginning, she was constantly falling off the music and then trying to catch up, there were some really horrible notes, the worst was when she hit “cards”, I actually tensed up at the note. There was only one money note she was able to hit and it was good. This was just terrible.

Simon – the lyrics are ironic because it was absolutely terrible, it was too big for you, huge mistake, it was a dreary arrangement almost like a funeral, awful, worst performance by a mile.

Randy – it was not the right song, it wasn’t good

Kara – you were a ray of sunshine at your original audition, “Cute as a button” is a compliment, this was dark and depressing, it wasn’t you, you need to smile and to be young, you need to touch people, this was too scary

Paula – there were some bright moments to the song (are you nuts?) but it was too old-fashioned for you, there were some nice riffs (again are you crazy), but sometimes you just need to stick to the melody

Ju’Not Joyner

Ju’Not goes with “Hey There Delilah” and all I can say is it was boring. I hated this arrangement. It was so slow and dreary. I just did not like anything about the performance either. Ju’Not has a nice voice and he did get the one money note but I was not impressed.

Randy – cool, you have the R&B feel but you switched it up, it was a smart choice, I loved it (are you drinking from Paula’s cup?)

Kara – very smooth, fluid, you killed it, next time you need to really bust it out

Paula – you changed it up, the liberties you took paid off, nice vocal

Simon – it was better than I thought it would be, it was safe, you were nervous

Kristen McNamara

I almost fell out of my chair when she said she was a karaoke hostess. Oh my god I can hear the comments now. I was not even aware there was such a job. I must admit I really have not been impressed with Kristen. I totally hated her horrible outfit. I will give her credit she has confidence and was working the crowd but then again she has been on Star Search and Nashville Star. I was totally put off because she has the old “tapping” the mike habit – I freaking hate that! Kristen’s voice was okay but not memorable and she had quite a few pitch problems.

Kara – I like your hair, great singer, great tone, hit notes, I can see you singing Kelly Clarkson or Pink type songs, not a fan of the outfit, not a perfect song choice

Paula – you sang “Because of You” in Hollywood, this was safe, I was expecting more but you showed talent

Simon – you leave me puzzled, it was an odd song choice but you have a great voice

Randy – you don’t know who you are, you didn’t do much with it, it was like being in a karaoke bar (I knew I didn’t have to use it because one of the judges would)

Nathaniel Marshall

Here is our resident drama queen. I like Nate. As he explains in his video, America has seen many different Nates but not the true Nate, the goofy, humble and good-natured Nate. The piercings are not helping me along with the tattoos, my eyes are not good so I could not see what the tattoo writings were on his chest and it was very distracting to me along with all the jewelry and that ridiculous headband. Do not get me started on those skinny jeans he wears. Perhaps I am just jealous because I could never wear skinny jeans. Nathaniel wins the night with the strangest of all song choices, “I Would Do Anything for Love”, oh my god. The song started very weak and he was never able to really fill the song nor could he sell the emotion. The performance was weird as well given the dance moves and what was up with those random hand pointing. Nathaniel has a good voice as he demonstrated in Hollywood after we got over the drama but he was not showing it here, which is too bad.

Simon – “I think you probably would”, some will like this must but most will hate it. It was verging on uncomfortable, people will remember you, you are fun and I like you

Randy – I like you, why did you choose this song and we get Nate’s story about how he and his mother would dance to this song when he was a kid, you definitely can sing, what I don’t know is what type of recording artist you would be

Kara – you have a voice, you need to show more of your serious side to be taken seriously, I want to go to karaoke with you (What the f*^k?)

Paula – I love you, when you sang Disturbia with your guitar during Hollywood week you were bold and relevant, this was like a Boy George version and it took away from your coolness, you need to make smarter song choices

Felicia Barton

Felicia is in a very bad spot given America has not seen her and she is a replacement for one of the original 36. It is too bad because I really like her. Felicia goes with “No One” and while she started too low, she has a great voice. There were some rough pitchy notes probably nerves and at one point she was shouting. I believe this was the best performance by a female tonight so far. Felicia had confidence and was having fun. Felicia sold the emotion of the song.

Paula – the universe works in weird ways, you are gorgeous, talented, unbelievable, I hope you get to stick around

Simon – the first part was better than the second part, it was a bit of a copycat

Randy – you have an amazing voice, you have a different tone, hot

Kara – I love your attitude and presence, there were a few bad notes, this was the first time I really noticed you, you did really well tonight

Scott MacIntyre

Scott is going with “Mandolin Rain”. The beginning was okay but he had some very serious pitchy moments throughout the song. I think he really needs to have his keyboards but oh well. There is great tone to his voice and he has some range but last night’s performance was average at best.

Randy – this was not a perfect vocal, the good parts were really good though, props for a job well done

Kara – you can move mountains on stage, you are passionate, make no excuses, there were some issues with the vocals, I hope America will keep you around

Paula – I am happy and proud, one of our finest

Simon – I am not crazy about the song, you are growing on me, there are better singers in the competition but you have relevance and I would be surprised if you don’t sail through to the next round.

Kendall Beard

Kendall looked great, her outfit was adorable, and how cute her mother put it together. If she goes through, I would choose her mother over the American Idol stylists. Kendall’s smile is infectious. Kendall chooses “This One’s for the Girls” and while country may be her thing, Martina McBride is hard to do and the choice of song was her kiss of death. Kendall had some serious pitch issues and do not get me started on her squeaky high notes. Kendall also pissed me off because her enunciation sucked, she was slurring her words, diction my girl. Kendall was having fun but I was not.

Kara – you have a big personality, you were smart to pick a country song, there were some issues with notes, you had the flat thing going on

Paula – you take the prize for best outfit of the night, good job, you are adorable

Simon – you did the right thing tonight with the country but half way through I couldn’t wait for it to end, it was shrilly towards the end, you should have chosen a better song to suit your voice, not my cup of tea

Randy – I liked the song choice, the outfit and the performance just not the vocals, you over shot the notes

Jorge Nunez

Jorge is going with “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” which is one of my favorite songs but it is so overdone on this show. Jorge has a good voice and there was power and passion in the performance but I am not sure why but something was off for me. I will give him kudos for his enunciation for the most part.

Paula – I am so proud of you, you sounded so good, and you have worked hard with a dialect coach, I could just squeeze you (Paula I don’t want to hear about your bedroom issues)

Simon – to Paula – “You heart him don’t you”. I think we were wrong to tell you not to sing with an accent, it is who you are. You have a good voice, you are a good singer.

Randy – accent or not, it is the vocals that matter, they weren’t perfect but you were really, really good

Kara – you were born to sing, your tone is beautiful, you sing from the heart, you have a gift to touch people (again with the touching)

Lil Rounds

Lil was looking great and I loved her outfit. Lil has chosen “Be Without You” and this was one great kick-ass performance. She sounded great. Lil has raw power and the personality to back it up. There was great stage presence as well. I have to mark her down for the shameless plug for votes when she changes the lyrics at the end “call this show if you just can’t be without me”.

Simon – brilliant, I wouldn’t have chosen that song since you sounded too much like Mary but my favorite performance of the night

Randy – you didn’t lose your swagger, unbelievable vocals, loved it

Kara – powerhouse, you are great, steady as a boat

Paula – first class


Now let us talk about this very strange show. Were the judges on something last night? I thought I was in some new-age self-help growth class with all the talk about getting to know someone, knowing what type of personality you have, what type of artist you would be – give me a freaking break! These people have a minute and a half to sing their hearts out. Who cares whether I would go shopping with them or go to a Karaoke bar? This is a singing competition, plain and simple. Leave the new age stuff to a different program.

It is also shameless how the producers are promoting some while ignoring others. I do really adore Nate but he got more airtime then any other contestant and what was up with taking him over to the judges table and trying to get him to sit in Simon’s lap although Paula won the honors. Ryan trying to put the headband (although he referred to it as a garter) on Simon’s head was just stupid.

I want to spend more time with the contestants hearing them sing then the antics of the judges especially last night since they seemed to be in outer space.

I only put through 774 votes last night. I gave Von 437, Felicia 212, Jorge 65, Nate 50 and Lil 10.

Based on performance alone I believe Lil, Von, and Jorge should go through but I am predicting Lil, Scott and Jorge will be the ones moved into the top 12.

Until tomorrow…