AI 11 - 1-25-12 Aspen

It is time we just got away. This is Colorado and this is AMERICAN IDOL!

Cue the opening montage of the American Idol train hitting the road for Colorado where there is a completely new energy. Aspen is a quiet, peaceful and tranquil place to find the next superstar. Let us get to our meaningful commentary on the contestants performance.

Jenni Shick is an elementary music teacher for kindergarten through sixth grade and she detests “recorders”. I think she was high on something because her energy level was over the top. She is nervous about meeting Steven Tyler because he is so gorgeous (REALLY?) and he is on her list of celebrities she is allowed to kiss without it being considered cheating. Her list also includes Lady Gaga and Adam Levine. Jenni’s boyfriend who could not get off work also has Lady Gaga, Adam Levine and Ryan on his list. Jenni asks Ryan to kiss her on the cheek for her boyfriend and Ryan declines.

Jenni immediately mentions her list to Steven but advises he wants to hear her sing before agreeing to anything. The audition song is “Heartbreaker” and I found her voice freaking annoying. Jenni was loud, there was shallowness to her voice, and as she reached her upper register, the notes were sharp! Jenni is not American Idol material in my estimation; however, the judges were falling over themselves to send her to Hollywood to hear more of what she can do. Ronald can see the crash and burn coming a mile away. It appears Randy is now the conductor as he tells her “You may kiss the judge.” Ronald turns away in disgust but Jenni has to brag about the kiss and Steven’s lips being so soft. Can I vomit now?

Cue the next video montage of time wasting as the “contestant cams” demonstrate how everyone looks, as they have to get up early, dress and then stand in line with 10,000 people waiting for their chance at a golden ticket.

Curtis Gray is 28 so this is his last chance to audition for American Idol before becoming too old at the ripe age of 29. Curtis goes with “It’s so hard to say goodbye to yesterday” and does an adequate job. The beginning was a little rocky but as he went along, he gained some control and managed to address the pitch issues. I do not think he has a chance in hell in making it but the judges unanimously send him through to Hollywood.

Cue a video montage of various male singers who receive golden tickets but at least this time we have names to go along with the contestants. Richie Law is the Scotty McCreery this year. Devan Jones appeared to have excellent control for the snippet we hear and finally Mathenne Trego (Where the hell did his parents come up with that name!) went with “Hey Jude” and it was way too affected for my tastes.

Tealana Hedgepeth is our next contestant. What is up with parents and the poor names they stick these kids with? Tealana lives under the shadow of her twin sister who is pursuing a performing arts degree. Tealana wants to be the star and this is her opportunity to shine. Ronald shakes his head because this can only be leading to one conclusion. Wow, I was right this audition sinks faster than the titanic. I was laughing as they show Jennifer whispering to Steven saying, “If you ask her to sing another song I will kill you.” Steven tells her to record herself and listen to what we heard. Tealana is going home without her golden ticket. Cry me a river – NOT!

Haley Smith is 18, lives in a log cabin in the middle of nowhere, and loves nature. She is working three jobs one of which is in the meat department of a store and she is a vegetarian. Who freaking cares? Haley goes with “Tell me something good” as her audition number. She was a bit loud and there was some shouting involved but she did demonstrate some control and there is a unique quality to her voice. The judges on the other hand were kissing themselves about how wonderful she is. Steven states, “I love you voice, it is an honor to be here listening.” (Steven what the hell kind of drugs are you taking.) Randy indicates it was not perfect but I love it and you have a natural gift. The judges send her on to Hollywood. I am not sure I would have said yes but time will tell.

Cue the video montage as morning ends and the judges are returning from lunch except for Steven who we see continuing to stuff his mouth. My question is how does this relate to the auditions?

Alanna Snare works at a bar famous for serving Rocky Mountain oysters which are “bull testes” and this is important to her becoming the next American Idol how? Alanna chooses my absolutely least favorite Dolly Parton song “Jolene” and then completely butchers it. Oh how I hate that song. The song should be forever banned from being used. This audition was pure torture but at least the judges politely send her back to eat more oysters.

Shelby Tweten is 17 years old from Minnesota (she has a very strong accent) and she has the diagnosis of bipolar disorder and has been depressed for a long time. I know several people with this disorder and it can be ugly if you do not take your medication, which Shelby admits to not taking hers consistently. Shelby’s mother indicates that singing helps to calm her doing those manic episodes. Shelby sings “Temporary Home” and the girl can really sing. To borrow words used by the judges for other contestants I thought Shelby has some very raw natural talent and with the right training could take her far. Jennifer has tears were flowing down her face. Randy states she is fearless. Shelby is heading to Hollywood. My concern is the pressures of Hollywood could be her undoing especially if no one is monitoring her medication intake.

Cue the video montage as Colorado hits a rough patch and we witness four very bad singers getting the heave ho!

Jairon Jackson is next and he chooses to go with an original song. This is never a wise move but not withstanding I did not like the song there was a good tone to his voice. Jairon was going flat towards the end though. The judges adore him and he wins a trip to Hollywood.

Angie Zeiderman states, “It is time for a vintage glitter queen on American Idol!” Angie adores Lady Gaga and wants to be her best friend as well as her opening act. Heaven help us all. Angie goes with “When You Got It, Flaunt it” from “The Producers” and I have no clue what she was trying to do with that over the top performance. I can assure you Lady Gaga she is not. I hated the entire thing but not for the reasons Randy was turned off. Randy bitches about the vibrato of Broadway singers while Jennifer defends Broadway (kudos to J Lo). I just did not like the sound of her voice and she was not on key very often. The judges give her another chance and she goes with “Blue Bayou” and once again demonstrates she cannot remain on key. The judges though change their minds and send her on to Hollywood. Nice hearing you Angie but you will not make it through from Hollywood.

Welcome back to Aspen as the video montage is about Party Central in the audition room, which leads to our final contestant of the night, Magic Cyclops (yes you read the name correctly). Why the producers are choosing to end the night with this idiot, I have no clue. Magic tells us he is from Davenport, Iowa yet has a British accent. He had to leave Davenport because of riverboat gambling. Magic has over a 11,000 different air guitars. WTF?

The judges ask him what he is going to sing and he replies this is judge’s choice day. They get to pick between Neil Diamond and “James Buffet” – can we just skip this so I can go to bed? Randy selects Neil Diamond and Magic goes with “Cracklin’ Rose” and murders the melody. For some strange reason Jennifer asks for “Margaritaville” and Ronald asks if he can kill her now. This song is even more butchered then the first. Why are we wasting time on this crazy jerk? Randy cannot take it and excuses himself but then Mr. Cyclops sets off a confetti cannon. Time waster Mr. Producer and I want it back stat!

In the end, 31 singers receive their golden ticket to Hollywood and we see nine. Our next stop is Texas and it appears we are heading to Houston although my guide states Galveston.

AI 11: 1-22-12 San Diego

Somewhere near the Pacific, there are 10,000 hopefuls with a dream. What they do not know is this audition is not like any other. We are on the USS Midway in the heart of San Diego and what better place for the battle for the next superstar. This is AMERICAN IDOL!

Why must Fox ruin my Sunday by scheduling an American Idol audition show? I rush home to see the program to find out a ridiculous stupid football game went into overtime so it will push back all the programming. It forces me to leave the game muted so I would not miss the auditions. I will also have to wait now to see “Once Upon a Time” on-line. The wait had better be worth it and heaven help the producers if they waste too much of my time.

Oh joy I can see how this episode is going to drag on. There is no doubt since we are on an aircraft carrier (REALLY?) that the “Top Gun” references will fill the night. The USS Midway is central command for AI and overseeing it all is the “Rock Star”, the “Dawg”, the “fly girl”, and Ryan. Shoot me now and get it over with stat!

Enough about me let us dish the dirt about the auditions.

Day 1

Our first audition of the day is Jennifer Diley who considers herself a patriot and wants to inspire the crew wearing practically nothing at all. Why or why must we endure her walking up the stairs in slow motion from behind? I just want to scream. This is not going to end well. Steven tells her “it is against the law to be that cute.” Jennifer auditions with “With You” and butchers it badly. Steven tells her that her voice lacks the fire her outfit has. Randy says that if you dress like that you really have to “blow” us away (wink, wink). J Lo says it does not matter what she wore. Jennifer asks to sing again and Randy tells her that if they do not like her she has to go. Jennifer attempts “Hero” and sucks even worse. This audition is a time waster Mr. producer.

Cue the video montage about how wonderful it is to audition on a docking bay of an aircraft carrier where we have to endure plane noises, boat horns, and Steven Tyler cursing (bleep, bleep).

Ashley Robles is 26, a single mom, an insurance account manager, and a DJ who arrives with her five-year-old daughter who steals the show from her mom and plans to be her backup dancer. Ashley auditions with “I Will Always Love You” (the Whitney version). As she began, I was not exactly impressed but when she reached the chorus then her voice soared. She has a very strong voice and nice tone but she needs to stay away from trying to impersonate another singer and find her own voice with the material. Randy wonders where she has been this whole time. Steven predicts that she will be big. Ashley is going to Hollywood.

Jayrah Gibson states he cannot write or sing, he can only sing. I kid you not it was in his “contestant cam”. Jayrah indicates there is no plan b, only plan A to succeed and be the next American Idol. Jayrah starts with a song he wrote for Jennifer called “Shake Your Money Maker” and Ronald just shakes his head. I was not impressed. Then he performs “Just Friends” and he still did not impress me. The tone of his voice irritated me. I would have sent him packing; however, the judges were impressed. Randy notes the show has not had a big R&B star in awhile, Steven thinks he has everything, and Jennifer looks forward to hearing something more melodic. Jayrah is heading to Hollywood.

Cue montage of the morning in San Diego going well with more contestants getting a golden ticket, however, we do not get to hear them perform or know their name.

Aubree Dieckmeyer is here because she wants to be America’s Next Top Model. Really? We waste more time as they keep repeating her interview where she continues to be unable to state she is here to be the next American Idol. Aubree goes with “Feeling Good” and I think she sounds weird; there is just something annoying about her voice, which I am unable to articulate. Her performance skills were non-existent. The judges again were drooling over themselves about how great she was. Jennifer indicates there is a sweet sound to your voice and the way you controlled the runs. Randy indicates you have a natural talent in how you connected the runs but did state she lost power in her upper register. Steven likes the flavor in her voice but agrees with Randy. The judges send her on to Hollywood.

Our final contestant for the day is Ali Shields who is here thanks to Ellen DeGeneres. Ali wrote a song for Ellen who naturally put her on daytime television as well as sending her to the American Music Awards to offer commentary. Ali explains that Ellen made her think anything is possible. I think Ellen is exacting revenge for not being asked to return to judge for a second season. Ali decides to rap instead of sing and Ronald screams in terror. This was the fingernail down the blackboard moment of the night. Ali then sings “Like a Star” and it was marginally better but the poor girl was sharp whenever she tried to push herself. The only thing going for Ali is she has personality to spare and this may help you with performing but you do need to have a modicum of talent in order to succeed. I loved Jennifer stating, “You can sing a little!” The judges still send her through to Hollywood for a reason I cannot fathom.

Day 2

Frat boy Kyle Cruse is our first contestant of the day and he dedicates his song “Angel of Mine” to Jennifer. I will give him credit in that his voice has a nice tone. I also thought he made some interesting choices with the melody but I do not think he is American Idol material. The judges on the other hand indicated it was the best male voice they have heard so far. Kyle gets to take his frat boy partying to Hollywood where Ronald is convinced he will crash and burn!

Cue video montage dealing with the noises and a host of singers who are heading home without a golden ticket.

Jane Carrey is a mom, server and a musician. She is wants to be able to make it on her own versus using her family connections. Jane’s father is Jim Carrey. I was impressed with the way Jane presented herself; she was charming, well spoken and poised. I had to laugh when Jennifer realized who she was and that she was probably only two when her dad was “On Living Color” when Jennifer was a fly girl. Jennifer suddenly feels old, “when did this happen” as she puts her head to the table. Jane performs “Something to talk about” and when she started, it was rather dull but as she gained confidence, she kicked it up a notch and showed some vocal talent. I think she has a pleasant voice but she is definitely not the next American Idol. Randy states she has potential, Steven loves what she did with the melody but needs more volume and Jennifer feels she needs to work on her performing skills; however, they send her through to Hollywood. There was no doubt in my mind that Jane was going to Hollywood; the producers are not stupid since it will make for good television especially if Jim Carrey is in the audience.

Our final contestant of the day is Jason “Wolf” Hamlin who is a mechanic on a golf course. Wolf’s dad built him a guitar 3 years ago and he wants to share it with the world since his dad passed away in 2010. Wolf auditions with “Midnight Special” and it was a bit over the top for my tastes. The judges ask him to perform a different song and he asks if he can play my “git-fiddle?” I kid you not. The judges say yes so Wolf lets loose with “Folsom Prison Blues.” This song really shows off his voice and shows some potential. The judges send him through to Hollywood.

Well our time in San Diego ends with 53 contestants getting a golden ticket while we hear only six. What is wrong with this picture? There is no reason this episode could not have waited until Wednesday. I think this was the most boring audition episode so far. The American Idol bus is heading for Aspen Colorado and I can only hope there are more entertaining contestants in our future.

AI 11: 1-19-12 Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh the “City of Champions” is this the perfect spot to find our next super star? This is our first time visiting here. Are you ready? This is AMERICAN IDOL!

Time is wasting so we will get to dish the dirt about the auditions in this one-hour edition.

Day 1

Heejun Hun is first up for the day. Heejun does not know how he feels and his worried he is not as good as the thought he was (this may be a good sign since the delusional contestants always claim to be the best singers). Heejun goes with “How am I supposed to live without you” and I was a bit weary but surprisingly Heejun has a nice smooth voice; however, his enunciation will be an issue. Jennifer compliments his tone and control while Steven thinks he could win (I would have to disagree but he can sing). All three judges vote yes and Heejun is heading for Hollywood.

Reed Grimm 26, whose parents met in a band and has they had kids introduced them into the act, which means Reed has been performing since he was a child. Reed wears shorts and flip-flops to his audition, it looked like he jumped out of bed and decided on a lark to come on down and enter the contest. Reed sings the theme to Family Matters and has a good voice. The judges love him and send him through to Hollywood.

Cue video montage of Pittsburgh a city that keeps on delivering according to Ryan. We see clips of six singers getting golden tickets but only two are identified. They were Aaron Marcellus and Chase Likens. They both had good voices but I am not sure they will stand out in a crowd.

Samantha Novacek explains she sings better if her sister Patty planks (I guess I missed something because I have no clue what this is). Samantha comes into the audition room with Patty who gets on the floor and is doing some type of push up which I am gathering is planking but the whole thing is bizarre. I really was not paying attention to Samantha singing, “We Never loved at all” because Patty distracted me. Randy finally tells Patty to stop planking. The judges complement Samantha’s tone and send her through to Hollywood. Ronald just shakes his head.

Next up is starving artist Creighton Fraker from New York who is unemployed and wears bunny ears and Elton John glasses when playing keyboard on the street. Creighton indicates he was unsure about what to sing so during his bus ride to Pittsburgh wrote a song. I am always annoyed with contestants who sing their own songs. The song is about the judges and I found his voice very irritating. Jennifer thinks he sounds like the child of Jamiroquai and Justin Timberlake and Steven asks to hear more. Creighton sings some Jackson Five and the judges are even more in love with him. Mr. Fraker is heading to Hollywood.

Eben Franckewitz or should I say the next Justin Bieber is up next. Eben tells us he has been working hard to get ready for the audition with the support of his parents. Eben’s mother tells him to do his thing and not worry about what others are doing. Eben tells Ryan it is a privilege to be here with “all these older people.” Eben tells the judges he is told he looks like Justin Beiber (I just hope he does not sound like him). Eben goes with “Ain’t No Sunshine” and does a respectable job. I am not sure is voice is quite right for pop music but that may be because his voice has not changed yet. Jennifer thinks he is born to do this. Steven says he will only get better and Randy follows with he has a God-given gift. Eben is heading to Hollywood. The question is can he handle the pressure.

Our final contestant of the day is Travis Orlando who returns to audition again. Last year his story started in a homeless shelter but then the family got into their own place. Since last year, Travis’s mom left the family to be with another man and they were evicted and had to return to the homeless shelter. Travis’s father says the experience has strengthened their relationship. Travis dropped out of high school and states he is doing this to show his mom that he can do something positive. This audition is all or nothing. What is wrong with this picture and why are his father and brother enabling Travis? I think it is important to finish your education since you are only 17 and then pursue your dream of singing.

Travis auditions with “Isn’t She Lovely?” which is okay but does not blow me away. Jennifer thinks he has improved but there is still something lacking. Steven says he sings with passion but does not show it. The judges, however, award him a golden ticket to Hollywood as Travis is crying and begging for the opportunity.

Day 2

Cue the introduction video since Jennifer is late so Randy and Steven occupy the contestants with a performance.

Ericka Van Pelt who is a “mobile DJ” and a wedding singer is first up to audition. She sings “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow”. I like the bluesy tone of her voice but there were quite a few pitch problems during her audition. Randy gushes over her tone. Steven thinks she is sexy and sure of herself. Jennifer says her look and tone work together. Erika is heading to Hollywood. “Pelt can belt,” Steven declares as she heads out of the audition room with her golden ticket.

Cue video montage of Steven being funny as the judges send through unidentified contestants to Hollywood.

Shane Bruce went into the coal mining business after graduating from high school because of the stable income. Shane is a miner like his father and his father before him it is what they do. Shane tells the judges he is going to sing “Hallelujah” the song from “Shrek”. Ronald just shakes his head at the appalling lack of musical education, “Shrek” indeed! Shane’s voice was fine but he was not able to hit the high notes at all. I think with some vocal training he could make it as a singer. Jennifer tells him she could see his disappointment at not hitting the high notes. Steven says that he did all he can do. Randy thinks Shane has a great voice but needs work and is impressed that Shane recognizes it. The judges tell him that he is not ready for Hollywood this year but they encourage him to try again.

Cue the video montage of all the contestants who go home without a golden ticket.

Our final contestant is Hallie Day who explains, “Music and my husband saved my life.” Hallie dropped out of high school at 15 and went to New York but things did not go well so she returned home but her family was there for her. She tries to commit suicide by taking a bunch of pills. Not long after that, she met Ryan, her husband of six months. He encouraged her to try out for the show and she knows whatever the outcome she and Ryan will get through it. Hallie auditions with “I Will Survive.” I think there was more shouting then singing but I did catch a few very beautiful and controlled notes. Jennifer tells her to never stop believing in herself, no matter what. Steven asks her to sing something else but Randy and Jennifer are confused since that was fine. Steven says he wants to watch Hallie again (I bet). Jennifer can already see Hallie on stage and on an album cover. In the end, the judges send her to Hollywood without another number.

This was a very fast-paced episode with little fun poked at the delusional contestants, which is a pleasant change. Only 38 people received golden tickets for their chance in Hollywood.

We are having a special episode on Sunday night with the American Idol train heading to San Diego.

AI 11: 1-18-12 Savannah

Where were you when it all started? After 10 years, the phenomenon continues as new contestants prepare for the biggest platform to achieve their dreams. This is AMERICAN IDOL!

Cue opening video montage as we see the crowning of last year’s winner (who is he again?) and then we take a journey all the way back in time to Kelly Clarkson’s coronation as the first American Idol. I say thank you to the producers for reminding me how old I am as all these contestants scream they have been watching the show since they were six!

Ryan advises that this year we will be seeing the journey of the contestants through their own eyes via “contestant cam”. I can see all the drama and tears coming our way. I am so excited – NOT!

Our first stop in “Season One One the new beginning” as Randy continuously mentions is Savannah Georgia. This is the first time the American Idol wagon as pulled into this location.

Time to dish the dirt on our new crop of hopeful contestants let the fun begin.

Day One

David Leathers, Jr. (or should I say Mr. Steal Yo Girl) who explains he placed in the top two with last season’s winner in a previous local talent competition is 17 but looks like he is five at the most. I thought he had a nice voice but he has a tendency to fall flat at the end of a note. David is going to Hollywood. Given his “cute factor” and the semblance of a voice, he may make it through to the semi-finals at least.

Gabi Carruba is up next who has been tap dancing since she was one year old and has been waiting to audition her “whole life”. (Mr. Producer I get it that I am old). Gabi’s cam has her imitating Steven’s listening face – wow, I am so impressed. I hope my sarcasm is clear. As Gabi enters the audition room, she requests a hug from Nigel Lythgoe. I am guess she is hedging her bets, if she does not make it through via singing she might have a chance to tap on “So You Think You can Dance”. Gabi auditions with “Sunday Morning” and her voice was okay but nothing special, however, the judges love her. I just do not see her going very far because she is going to crack under the pressure.

Next up is a montage of contestants including Brianna Faulk, Neco Starr, Molly Hunt and Elise Testone. Brianna, Neco and Molly receive golden tickets while Elise is heading home. Of the three going through, I enjoyed the short clip of Neco performing Bruno Marks “Grenade”.

Jessica Whitely is up and I must agree with Randy who explains it was “awful”. This audition was not singing but shouting and the shouting was not even in tune. Steven tells her she has the ball and the groove but it is not going through the net. Jessica asks to sing a song and Steven says no. Jessica’s excuse is she is dehydrated (really?). Jessica says goodbye and advises she will see them again in Texas. The drama of it all as Jennifer asks if they can say no to her coming to Texas.

Our next video montage is about contestants gunning for Ryan’s job, which leads us to contestant Shaun Kraisman who claims everyone tells him he looks like Ryan. Naturally, Ryan enters the audition room so we can continue this boring filler material. Randy asks if Shaun will work for half of Ryan’s salary and he answers, he would do it for free (crazy fool). I guess Shaun is lucky he can fall back on a hosting gig because he would never make it as a singer.

Shannon Magrane who is 15 and a volleyball player explains her dad is Joe Magrane a former Cardinals pitcher. The judges request she bring in her family. Steven greets her father and follows with how the weather is hot “like your daughter”. There is then some silence, which Jennifer breaks by saying “you have a wonderful family”. Shannon performs “Something’s Got a Hold on Me” and I was pleasantly surprised about how powerful her voice was. I think she is a little young but with some polishing and time, she could make it. Randy states how he is impressed with her confidence and the judges send her to Hollywood.

Next up is the montage of hopefuls who have their dream shattered and America is thankful.

Amy Brumfield is up next along with her incredibly sad back-story as she explains through “contestant cam” that she is living in a tent in the woods with her boyfriend where they cook over a pit and use the woods as their bathroom. The boyfriend’s mother loaned her the outfit and the jewelry, it is the nicest thing she has ever worn. Amy sings “Super Woman” and has a nice voice with some character but I am not sure it is strong enough to stand out in a crowd. Randy likes the roughness of her tone. Steven tells her the spirits of the woods snuck into her. Jennifer calls her a gypsy/hippie hybrid, a “hypsy”. The judges unanimous say yes to Hollywood. Amy asks if she can set up her tent behind the Idols’ mansion. This cannot end well.

Cue the video montage of how much a variety there is to all the country boys in Georgia, which leads to Joshua Chavis whose biggest dream is to sing the National Anthem at a NASCAR race (I just shake my head). In a surprising moment, Joshua is the first male contestant in 11 seasons allowed to say he has a boyfriend (now this is progress). Joshua is also Jennifer’s number one fan. Joshua compares his voice to Brad Paisley and Chris Daughtry and states he is not leaving without a golden ticket! This means the exact opposite will occur. Joshua does not have the vocal chops for this competition and I do not understand while shouting has become the new norm. Jennifer explains he is sweet and cute which Joshua just eats up but then Joshua ruins it by trying to sing something else. Randy says he is good for singing at birthday parties and bars but that is it. Joshua breaks down, cries, and has a hissy fit in front of the camera.

Stephanie Renae is up next and we have another 15 year old who has been watching the show since she was a kid (enough already). Her favorite Idol is Carrie Underwood, she chooses to audition with “Inside Your Heaven”, and I certainly was not impressed because I thought her voice was too nasally let alone the freaking shouting. Jennifer thinks she sounds great but needs to work on the nasal thing. Randy says no but Stephanie is heading to Hollywood thanks to Jennifer and Steven.

It is now 4:00 p.m. on day one and Schyler Dixon is auditioning again this year. She auditioned with her brother last year and he almost made it to the top 24. Schyler believes this will be her year. Jennifer asks if Colton is auditioning this year and she says no. The judges make her go get him and they demand he sing as well.

Schyler auditions with “Breakeven” and being only 16 I think she has improved from last year and does truly have a unique voice but I am not convinced she can handle the pressure yet. Colton is next with “Permanent” (one of my favorite David Cook songs) and all I can say is he has a great voice. Jennifer believes the pain of being cut last season has made Colton better. The judges send both on to Hollywood. I believe Schyler will crack while Colton is going to make it through this year.

Day one in Savannah is ending so it is time for another montage of those poor deluded souls who up in the reject pile as “I Fall to Pieces” plays in the background.

Lauren Mink is our last contestant of the day and we learn she runs a program for adults with intellectual disabilities and she incorporates music including a choir. Lauren wants to be a role model. Are you running for Miss America or do you want to be an American Idol? Lauren goes with “Country Strong” and surprise, surprise she can sing and has a nice voice. I am not sure she will make it all the way through but she deserves a chance. Jennifer gets goose bumps and admires the confidence she built. Steven loves her passion (I bet) and Randy compares her to Jennifer Nettles. Lauren is heading to Hollywood.

Day 2

9:19 p.m. and we are just starting on day two. I am gathering day two was not as successful as day one. Cue the video montage with the summation that it is HOT in Savannah.

Mawuena Kodjo is from Tongo with Ryan quipping “This doesn’t seem convenient.” I honestly could only understand about every third word out of his mouth. I just have a feeling this audition is not going to end well. Mawuena auditions with a Rascal Flatts' song which again I could not understand a word; however, I could hear how horrible he sounded. Steven likes his confidence, his pitch is off but he threw the ball. Randy says he is awful and challenges him to find someone who disagrees.

Cue the video montage as Ryan accompanies Mawuena as he sings for random people on the street, which is just ridiculous filler because there is no freaking way he is going to Hollywood. There are some little girls and an older man (who all clearly wants to be on TV) returns to tell the judges they should let Mawuena go to Hollywood. Randy and Steven tell them to work on their ears.

Ashlee Altise explains she wants to sound good in her interview and has a dance she calls the “joy hop” which you perform when you are happy. Ashlee believes she can give Jennifer a run for her money in the dance department. Where do these nut cases come from? Ashlee chooses “Come Together” for her audition song and sings or should I say shouts the number. All I can say is I never want to hear this again! The judges like her and send her to Hollywood. Are they freaking nuts? Ashlee performs her “joy hop” as she leaves the audition room with her undeserving golden ticket.

Cue the next montage of people seeing their dreams of Hollywood shatter around them.

W. T. Thompson whose wife is ready to pop out a kid in two-and-a-half months quits his job to audition. (What is wrong with this picture?) Mrs. W.T. tells Ryan this is really his last change because once you have kids, you cannot quit a job to follow your dream. W.T. has an okay voice but there is no way he can get past Hollywood. Steven does not think W.T is ready. Jennifer does and I laugh when she says, “The things that weren’t right about his voice can be fixed.” I wonder if she means by vocal coaching or all that wonderful sound mixing (just look at Taylor Swift who cannot sing live but sounds okay on recordings). Randy is the tiebreaker and gives him a chance although he is sure he will be eaten alive in Hollywood.

Our next video montage is about all the girls auditioning who are in love with Steven along with their moms and grandmothers. Steven eats up all the kissing and dancing. This all leads up to our next contestant Erica Nowak who proudly shouts out that Steven is her “future ex-husband.” Erica thinks he is hot and is over the top because she gets to hug him in the audition room. I am not sure what she sings but it is unimpressive and Erica goes home without a ring from Steven but ends her dream by stating Steven has a great butt.

Brittany Kerr who is an NBA dancer is our next contestant going through to Hollywood by a two to one vote with Jennifer being the realistic one in this case. The male judges are sending her through for reasons other than her weak singing voice. They see other assets she can bring to the table. Jennifer believes she will not survive a week in the competition but Steven thinks she will improve with guidance (wink wink!).

Day 2 is ending and our final contestant is Philip Phillips who works in his father’s pawnshop. Philip Phillips, Sr. is proud of his son and believes this show will change his life. Philip chooses to cover “Superstitious” with a little twist of his own. Philip shows great confidence and power but I think he had trouble with the rhythm. I did enjoy the changes he made to the song.

Randy asks to hear him play the guitar, Philip goes with a country version of “Thriller”, and it was very impressive. The second number shows his potential. I love how his voice has a great growl and the boy showed some soul let alone the creativity with the modifications to the songs. The kid can play the guitar too. Jennifer feels like Philip has electricity in him (is he Billy Elliott?) and is an artist because he will make people stop and watch. Steven thinks people will love him, he is “Casey with a lightning rod”. Randy joins the love fest and Philip is going to Hollywood.

Our time in Savannah ends with 42 contestants getting their golden ticket. It is too soon to know whether I can make it through this season but the first audition episode gives me some hope. I definitely do not believe the “contestant cam” will be worth the filler time but I may be proven wrong as we get into the actual competition.

Pittsburgh is our next audition stop. Let the hope continue!