After a much too long trip for groceries plus a stop at Mom’s and one at my Uncle’s…I’m finally home to watch AI. I’m not too upset that it’s been on for 45 minutes because I’m sure I will fast forward through a lot of stuff and end up catching up to real time. This show is over 2 hours of foreplay before the 10-second payoff.
Ryan said there were just under 100 million votes last night, which is pretty impressive.
As Ryan goes through thanking the judges and showing ridiculous clips of them, I’m wondering if they will bring Kara back. I’m not sure that they can get rid of her because that would be admitting a mistake. Ryan makes fun of Randy saying “For me, for you” and Kara’s ridiculous sweeties and honeys. Then there’s Paula. I swear someone should take away her dictionary and thesaurus…I’m pretty sure she has no clue what she is saying most of the time. Then Ryan introduces clips of Simon asking what and pardon because he didn’t hear something.
Mic problems…wonderful. Kris and Adam come out in all white, but neither one’s mic will work. I’m sure someone is getting fired for that.
The Top 13 are back to sing “So What”…or I should say butcher “So What”. Poor Scott is having to be lead around for the choreography again. I’m always impressed with how well he does and how much he trusts everyone to get him where he’s supposed to be.
DAVID!!! I heart David Cook. Proceeds to the song will go to cancer research as a memorial to his brother.
I can’t believe they are wasting time with this ridiculous “award show” that makes fun of people during their auditions. I will admit that, like watching a train wreck, I couldn’t turn away. I did enjoy the Norman Gentle clips…and of course Nick won and we got to see an encore of Norman Gentle. I really hope he gets a gig in Vegas.
FF through most of Lil Rounds and Queen Latifa. Why is Queen Latifa wearing a spandex catsuit? I know she lost weight, but seriously?
Anoop came out to sing and I smile again. I really wish Anoop would have gone farther. Then Jason Mraz came out…barefoot. He’s so awesome.
Kris video that I watch, but don’t really pay much attention to.
Kris sings with Keith Urban…and I don’t really care. I’m not a country fan. I listen to some of it, but FF through the rest.
There’s a big song montage, but I FF through parts of it. I’m just here to get to the end, not to listen to the Black Eyed Peas, especially when they have to edit part of the song.
More Idol Awards. This one is fixed so that bikini chick can come out in barely anything…again. Then Kara comes out and sings the song for real. Katrina tries to sing, but they’ve turned her mic down so you can barely hear her. Then Kara shows off her bikini (for like 5 seconds) for charity.
Allison sings with Cindi Lauper. I love them both, so I watch them sing “Time After Time”.
Danny sings “Hello”. I always loved this song. Then Lionel Richie comes out and joins Danny for another song, but I FF through most of it.
I started out 45 minutes behind real-time, but now I’m only 20 minutes behind!
Then we get to see Adam’s video. I’m still not buying that this is the real Adam; I still think it is all a stage performance where he’s chosen a character and that’s who he has become. If I believed that if it was the real Adam, I would be behind him 100%. Because I think it is an act, I just can’t get behind all the hype. Adam sings with Kiss, which I think is just ridiculous. I bet if Adam’s old theatre buddies are watching this they are laughing so hard they are rolling on the floor. I bet Adam spent more time in HS singing Bette and Judy than he did Kiss.
Santana graces us with his guitar playing…sounding much like I do when playing Guitar Hero (I wish).
Adam and Kris each get a new Ford Fusion. Good for them.
Steve Martin! On a banjo! I sure hope that Nick (Norman) gets to meet him. I FF through most of it because Steve Martin isn’t even singing.
I wish Ryan would quit saying that they are going to tell us who wins “when we come back”. It’s a lie and I find it annoying.
NOOOOO…Not Rod Stewart. FF! FF! FF!
Another Idol Award. This time it is for the women…which means Tatiana is back. I had to go get a vanilla vodka and cranberry cocktail. There was this whole fake thing about Tatiana alluding the security while she sang on the stage. Pan to Ruben who looks like he thinks it is all real and not the obviously staged act that it is.
Kris and Adam sing “We Are The Champions”.
OMG!! KRIS WINS!!! I am sooooo… excited! I can’t believe he came up from no where to win this thing. He was so surprised. I think everyone thought Adam would win, including Kris. I really think that Kris gained all of Danny’s old votes which then put Kris over the top.
Kris sings that ridiculous “No Boundaries” song again.
Showing posts with label American Idol. Show all posts
Showing posts with label American Idol. Show all posts
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
American Idol Season Finale – Part I
First they show clips of Kris and Adam during their audition interviews. Which was kind of cool, especially when you think about how far they’ve come from that day.
Ryan says it’s The Guy-Next-Door vs. The Guyliner, and I think that pretty much sums it up.
Each contestant will sing 3 songs: Favorite from this season, one chosen by Simon Fuller and the winner song (co-written by Kara).
Ryan warns that tomorrow night’s show will go a little long and if you are going to record it you should set your DVRs accordingly. I heeded his advice and immediately stopped to do that before I forgot.
Favorite Song from the Season
Adam chooses “Mad World”. This is actually one of the few songs that Adam sang that I actually liked. I think his falsetto works on this song, and I like the slow pace of the song. Randy tells Adam that he loves that Adam’s singing something from the season, but I’m pretty sure that’s what he had to do, so I’m guessing Randy got into Paula’s stash. Kara, “blah, blah, blah”. Paula stumbles over saying nothing. Simon said that he always thought this was Adam’s best song, but thought the fog and long coat was a little too theatrical and reminded him of The Phantom of the Opera (but I did like the look).
Kris chooses “Aint No Sunshine”. Kris pulls out pure sounding notes. It’s a very beautiful song the way Kris sings it. Randy said that was one of Kris’ best performances. Kara says that Kris has a way of making a personal connection with everyone in the audience. Paula (who’s looking pretty orange tonight. I guess she’s representing the Oompa Loompa side of her family) pretty much repeats what Kara just said because we all know Paula’s never had an original thought. Simon said that he originally thought that America had made the wrong choice by choosing Kris over Danny, but that after that performance he takes it all back.
Ryan asks Simon who won that round and Simon says Kris.
Simon Fuller’s choice
Adam sings “Change is Gonna Come” while wearing a fairly normal grey suit (it was shinny, but pretty tame for Adam). Adam really Glams it up for this performance. And I mean performance. He might not have come down stairs with fog and flashing lights, but his facial expressions were very dramatic and over the top. The singing was typical Adam with lots of falsetto and drawn-out notes. Randy says that Adam can sing his face off. Kara said that might be his best performance and interpretation of a song yet. Paula Loompa said it was the best she’d ever heard Adam sing. Simon says that Adam is 100% back in the game.
Kris sings “What’s Going On”. This seems like a song that would have been good for Jason Castro to sing last year. I think Kris did a really good job; I liked the arrangement. Randy says they have a real live duel competition, but that the song was a little light for him (If Randy is blaming the song, then that’s not Kris’ fault, if he’s blaming the interpretation, then he should have said so). Kara doesn’t say much. Paula said that Kris “tore that song up”. Simon said it was like three friends strumming along in their bedroom and was too laid back for tonight’s competition.
Simon calls this round for Adam
Winner’s Song: “No Boundaries”
Adam leaves everything on the stage. You can tell he really is putting everything he has into this performance, but I’m not sure that it helped his vocals any. It didn’t seem that this was his best performance vocally. Randy says that Adam can sing the phonebook, but that wasn’t his favorite Adam performance and it was a little pitchy in places. Kara talks about writing the song, but not much about Adam. Oompa Abdul doesn’t address the song, but talks about Adam as a whole. Simon says that he won’t judge that song (which means that he thought the song and Adam’s performance sucked, but doesn’t want his chosen boy to lose), but that he will judge Adam’s stint on the show, then goes on the kiss Adam’s but.
Kris puts a completely different spin on the song. Kris is more comfortable with this song and it is more suited to his vocal style. Randy said that the key was probably a little bit high for Kris, but that the song suited Kris more than it did Adam. Kara says she doesn’t want Kris to be judged on that song because it was a little too high, and she hopes people vote on the season (which tells me she is hoping people vote for Adam). Paula… (Oh, I don’t care anymore to decipher what she is saying). Simon says that watching him tonight has been incredible because of Kris coming into the competition without confidence in himself and that Kris deserves to be on that stage.
Let’s be honest, that song sucked as a whole and I feel sorry for both guys that they had to sing it at all. Kris had an advantage over Adam because that song was in no way anything like something Glambert would sing…I don’t even think he could pull out many of his trademark falsetto glory notes, however, the song was too high for Kris, so that killed any major advantage that he might have had. The song was terrible and no one should judge either guy on that song.
I’m really hoping that all the people who voted for Danny last week will switch their votes to Kris this week.
Ryan says it’s The Guy-Next-Door vs. The Guyliner, and I think that pretty much sums it up.
Each contestant will sing 3 songs: Favorite from this season, one chosen by Simon Fuller and the winner song (co-written by Kara).
Ryan warns that tomorrow night’s show will go a little long and if you are going to record it you should set your DVRs accordingly. I heeded his advice and immediately stopped to do that before I forgot.
Favorite Song from the Season
Adam chooses “Mad World”. This is actually one of the few songs that Adam sang that I actually liked. I think his falsetto works on this song, and I like the slow pace of the song. Randy tells Adam that he loves that Adam’s singing something from the season, but I’m pretty sure that’s what he had to do, so I’m guessing Randy got into Paula’s stash. Kara, “blah, blah, blah”. Paula stumbles over saying nothing. Simon said that he always thought this was Adam’s best song, but thought the fog and long coat was a little too theatrical and reminded him of The Phantom of the Opera (but I did like the look).
Kris chooses “Aint No Sunshine”. Kris pulls out pure sounding notes. It’s a very beautiful song the way Kris sings it. Randy said that was one of Kris’ best performances. Kara says that Kris has a way of making a personal connection with everyone in the audience. Paula (who’s looking pretty orange tonight. I guess she’s representing the Oompa Loompa side of her family) pretty much repeats what Kara just said because we all know Paula’s never had an original thought. Simon said that he originally thought that America had made the wrong choice by choosing Kris over Danny, but that after that performance he takes it all back.
Ryan asks Simon who won that round and Simon says Kris.
Simon Fuller’s choice
Adam sings “Change is Gonna Come” while wearing a fairly normal grey suit (it was shinny, but pretty tame for Adam). Adam really Glams it up for this performance. And I mean performance. He might not have come down stairs with fog and flashing lights, but his facial expressions were very dramatic and over the top. The singing was typical Adam with lots of falsetto and drawn-out notes. Randy says that Adam can sing his face off. Kara said that might be his best performance and interpretation of a song yet. Paula Loompa said it was the best she’d ever heard Adam sing. Simon says that Adam is 100% back in the game.
Kris sings “What’s Going On”. This seems like a song that would have been good for Jason Castro to sing last year. I think Kris did a really good job; I liked the arrangement. Randy says they have a real live duel competition, but that the song was a little light for him (If Randy is blaming the song, then that’s not Kris’ fault, if he’s blaming the interpretation, then he should have said so). Kara doesn’t say much. Paula said that Kris “tore that song up”. Simon said it was like three friends strumming along in their bedroom and was too laid back for tonight’s competition.
Simon calls this round for Adam
Winner’s Song: “No Boundaries”
Adam leaves everything on the stage. You can tell he really is putting everything he has into this performance, but I’m not sure that it helped his vocals any. It didn’t seem that this was his best performance vocally. Randy says that Adam can sing the phonebook, but that wasn’t his favorite Adam performance and it was a little pitchy in places. Kara talks about writing the song, but not much about Adam. Oompa Abdul doesn’t address the song, but talks about Adam as a whole. Simon says that he won’t judge that song (which means that he thought the song and Adam’s performance sucked, but doesn’t want his chosen boy to lose), but that he will judge Adam’s stint on the show, then goes on the kiss Adam’s but.
Kris puts a completely different spin on the song. Kris is more comfortable with this song and it is more suited to his vocal style. Randy said that the key was probably a little bit high for Kris, but that the song suited Kris more than it did Adam. Kara says she doesn’t want Kris to be judged on that song because it was a little too high, and she hopes people vote on the season (which tells me she is hoping people vote for Adam). Paula… (Oh, I don’t care anymore to decipher what she is saying). Simon says that watching him tonight has been incredible because of Kris coming into the competition without confidence in himself and that Kris deserves to be on that stage.
Let’s be honest, that song sucked as a whole and I feel sorry for both guys that they had to sing it at all. Kris had an advantage over Adam because that song was in no way anything like something Glambert would sing…I don’t even think he could pull out many of his trademark falsetto glory notes, however, the song was too high for Kris, so that killed any major advantage that he might have had. The song was terrible and no one should judge either guy on that song.
I’m really hoping that all the people who voted for Danny last week will switch their votes to Kris this week.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
American Idol Top 3 Results Show
So…the long awaited Top 3 results show is kicked off with a skit that is basically an add for the new Night at the Museum movie. Seriously?
Out of over 88 million votes, there were only 1 million votes separating the top two. One million votes may sound like a lot, but it’s only 1 vote out of 88.
Tonight, my friends and I were talking about how much we hope that Glambert goes home tonight. One of my friends said he had a feeling that Glambert was going home. We could only hope… I said that it wouldn’t matter if Glambert burped the National Anthem, the judges would applaud and say that he put his own spin on the song.
The Ford commercial ruins yet another good song…as well as my favorite music video of all time: Aha’s “Take on Me”. The real life to comic book just reminded me of it too much.
At this point, the African kid’s song was interrupted by a severe weather report for the local station. We’ll see how many times this happens. Our local channel tends to only pre-empt the scheduled shows if the storms are right over their location…forget the rest of us down in the boondocks. We can blow away for all they care.
Ryan brings Danny out. There’s some talk about his reunion with Jamar (remember him? The other half of the best friend duo?) and a video clip of his return home to Milwaukee. You know they are not going to tell us anything this early…so Danny goes to sit down.
Kris is then brought out and given the same treatment. Kris is from Conway, Arkansas…where I’ve actually been. I have a friend from there and another friend whose husband is from there. Conway isn’t too far away from my neck of the woods. I think it would be great if Kris won the whole thing.
Jordan Sparks sings and then the weatherman breaks in again. As long as he doesn’t have the nerve to break in when it really counts… I shouldn’t be too upset though because it is for a tornado warning.
AI comes back on in the middle of Adam’s video…so I didn’t miss much. I did get to see the place that made Adam who he is…The Theater for the Performing Arts…obviously. Then there was the hot chick who rushed the stage; doesn’t she know he is gay? Maybe she was looking for a gay bff.
Some crazy chick comes out and sings (Katy Perry, “I Kissed a Girl”). Danny says he just wants to get on with it and Adam yells out that he wants to see Katy Perry. She comes out with a cape on that says Adam Lambert on the back of it (I can’t believe AI let her do that). No wonder Glambert was willing to stay in suspense a little longer. That and he probably feels like he’s safe and has nothing to worry about.
Finally… Ryan says that Kris is safe. Yea! I’m really hoping that Glambert goes home, but is it wishing too much? Yes it is… Adam is in the final and Danny goes home. Then there’s a shot of what appears to be Adam’s boyfriend celebrating in the audience.
So the final is going to be between Adam and Kris. It would be so huge if Kris would win over Adam. Danny goes home, but I bet that he has a career in music ahead of him if he wants it. Remember: it’s not always the Idol winners who make it after the show.
Out of over 88 million votes, there were only 1 million votes separating the top two. One million votes may sound like a lot, but it’s only 1 vote out of 88.
Tonight, my friends and I were talking about how much we hope that Glambert goes home tonight. One of my friends said he had a feeling that Glambert was going home. We could only hope… I said that it wouldn’t matter if Glambert burped the National Anthem, the judges would applaud and say that he put his own spin on the song.
The Ford commercial ruins yet another good song…as well as my favorite music video of all time: Aha’s “Take on Me”. The real life to comic book just reminded me of it too much.
At this point, the African kid’s song was interrupted by a severe weather report for the local station. We’ll see how many times this happens. Our local channel tends to only pre-empt the scheduled shows if the storms are right over their location…forget the rest of us down in the boondocks. We can blow away for all they care.
Ryan brings Danny out. There’s some talk about his reunion with Jamar (remember him? The other half of the best friend duo?) and a video clip of his return home to Milwaukee. You know they are not going to tell us anything this early…so Danny goes to sit down.
Kris is then brought out and given the same treatment. Kris is from Conway, Arkansas…where I’ve actually been. I have a friend from there and another friend whose husband is from there. Conway isn’t too far away from my neck of the woods. I think it would be great if Kris won the whole thing.
Jordan Sparks sings and then the weatherman breaks in again. As long as he doesn’t have the nerve to break in when it really counts… I shouldn’t be too upset though because it is for a tornado warning.
AI comes back on in the middle of Adam’s video…so I didn’t miss much. I did get to see the place that made Adam who he is…The Theater for the Performing Arts…obviously. Then there was the hot chick who rushed the stage; doesn’t she know he is gay? Maybe she was looking for a gay bff.
Some crazy chick comes out and sings (Katy Perry, “I Kissed a Girl”). Danny says he just wants to get on with it and Adam yells out that he wants to see Katy Perry. She comes out with a cape on that says Adam Lambert on the back of it (I can’t believe AI let her do that). No wonder Glambert was willing to stay in suspense a little longer. That and he probably feels like he’s safe and has nothing to worry about.
Finally… Ryan says that Kris is safe. Yea! I’m really hoping that Glambert goes home, but is it wishing too much? Yes it is… Adam is in the final and Danny goes home. Then there’s a shot of what appears to be Adam’s boyfriend celebrating in the audience.
So the final is going to be between Adam and Kris. It would be so huge if Kris would win over Adam. Danny goes home, but I bet that he has a career in music ahead of him if he wants it. Remember: it’s not always the Idol winners who make it after the show.
American Idol Final 3
Tonight there will be two songs from each artist: one chosen by the contestant and one chosen by the judges. No matter how much the judges’ songs suck, the judges will never say that it was a bad song choice…
Danny sings “Dance Little Sister” chosen for him by Paula. I did not like this song. There was a long string of “do-do-dos” in the middle that proved nothing. Danny did okay with the song, but it would not have been my choice. Randy said it was dope. Kara didn’t like Danny’s dancing (it’s not a dancing competition Kara!). Paula said that she thought Danny did really good (of course…she chose it). Simon reminds the girls it’s not a dancing competition, but then says that he agreed the dancing wasn’t good. Simon said he didn’t like the song, but that Paula was on the right track with Terrence Trent-Darby.
Kris sings a song chosen by Kara and Randy, “Apologize” by One Republic. Kris plays the piano. I like this songs and I think Kris does a good job with it, and his voice is good for a song like this. He does have a little trouble with the high note, but it’s not bad (or even very noticeable). He changes it up just a little bit, but not enough to really “make it his own”. Randy (in his ridiculous, blue-framed glasses) liked the song choice (hmmmm…) and said it showed who Kris could be in the future. Kara didn’t think he hit it out of the park, and that he should have changed it up more. Paula didn’t like it, but wouldn’t say that…instead she fumbled around a lot. Simon called Paula and Kara out for their remarks (especially Kara not liking the song she chose) and said Kris did a competent job of singing the song.
Adam sings “One” by U2, chosen by Simon, who said he had to call the band to get permission for Adam to sing it and was cleared by Bono (who I can’t stand by the way). Adam starts off by singing the song really slow…and in falsetto (of course), then he goes into his super annoying, screeching falsetto. (I don’t mind the melodious falsetto, but I can’t stand his screeching falsetto. I realize that Adam is probably going to win this competition because he’s got the majority of people fooled, but I don’t have to like it. Saying that, I’m not sure either of the other two deserves the title either. This competition has gone down hill throughout the season…but I totally digress) I think Adam’s done much better on other songs. Randy didn’t like how Adam went “off the melody”, but that it’s a great song (which has nothing to do with Adam’s singing) and that Adam is still a great singer. Kara thought it was unbelievable. Paula said she was looking at an American Idol. Simon said it was a brilliant song choice, and it was a brilliant performance.
Danny chooses to sing “You Are So Beautiful” by Joe Cocker. He does a good job with the song, and manages to get out several glory notes, but that’s the problem, it’s just okay or good with Gokey at this point, nothing great… and he needs to be great to win. He does change up the song and make it his own, and does a good, clean job singing the song. I do think this was a much better song than the one Paula chose for him. Randy said he had mad vocals. Kara said it was stunning. Paula said that he left them all breathless. Simon said it was a vocal master-class (I’m pretty sure that’s good, but not sure what it means).
Kris sings “Heartless” by Kanye West, while playing the guitar. I think Kris does a good job, but this is not normally my kind of song and I’m not a Kanye West fan. Randy said it was better than the original. Kara asked him why he didn’t do that with “Apologize” and said it was perfect. Paula liked it. Simon said he had written Kris out after the first “lame song choice”, but it had all changed after that performance.
Adam chooses to sing “Crying” by Aerosmith. This should be right in Glambert’s range because Steven Tyler tends to sing in falsetto part of the time. Adam starts the song out in his real range (no falsetto) and now I know why he sings in falsetto all the time…he can’t sing any other way but screaming falsetto. I’m sure that a lot of people loved that performance, but it was just painful for me. I really like Aerosmith, and I did not like hearing that done to one of their hits. Randy said that Adam is one of the best that they’ve ever had on that stage. Kara said it was amazing and that they’ll see him at the finals. Paula mumbled a bunch of ridiculous stuff. Simon said he wasn’t going to suck up as much as the other three, and that America shouldn’t assume that Adam will be in the final three, but that they need to vote. Then Adam “humbles” himself by saying some clap-trap about how the other two did a great job and competition was tough…which I in no way believe that Adam really believes; his head is so big now that it’s a wonder it can fit on that stage.
At this point I’m only watching to see what happens. I do not have a horse in this race, and don’t much care what the outcome is.
Danny sings “Dance Little Sister” chosen for him by Paula. I did not like this song. There was a long string of “do-do-dos” in the middle that proved nothing. Danny did okay with the song, but it would not have been my choice. Randy said it was dope. Kara didn’t like Danny’s dancing (it’s not a dancing competition Kara!). Paula said that she thought Danny did really good (of course…she chose it). Simon reminds the girls it’s not a dancing competition, but then says that he agreed the dancing wasn’t good. Simon said he didn’t like the song, but that Paula was on the right track with Terrence Trent-Darby.
Kris sings a song chosen by Kara and Randy, “Apologize” by One Republic. Kris plays the piano. I like this songs and I think Kris does a good job with it, and his voice is good for a song like this. He does have a little trouble with the high note, but it’s not bad (or even very noticeable). He changes it up just a little bit, but not enough to really “make it his own”. Randy (in his ridiculous, blue-framed glasses) liked the song choice (hmmmm…) and said it showed who Kris could be in the future. Kara didn’t think he hit it out of the park, and that he should have changed it up more. Paula didn’t like it, but wouldn’t say that…instead she fumbled around a lot. Simon called Paula and Kara out for their remarks (especially Kara not liking the song she chose) and said Kris did a competent job of singing the song.
Adam sings “One” by U2, chosen by Simon, who said he had to call the band to get permission for Adam to sing it and was cleared by Bono (who I can’t stand by the way). Adam starts off by singing the song really slow…and in falsetto (of course), then he goes into his super annoying, screeching falsetto. (I don’t mind the melodious falsetto, but I can’t stand his screeching falsetto. I realize that Adam is probably going to win this competition because he’s got the majority of people fooled, but I don’t have to like it. Saying that, I’m not sure either of the other two deserves the title either. This competition has gone down hill throughout the season…but I totally digress) I think Adam’s done much better on other songs. Randy didn’t like how Adam went “off the melody”, but that it’s a great song (which has nothing to do with Adam’s singing) and that Adam is still a great singer. Kara thought it was unbelievable. Paula said she was looking at an American Idol. Simon said it was a brilliant song choice, and it was a brilliant performance.
Danny chooses to sing “You Are So Beautiful” by Joe Cocker. He does a good job with the song, and manages to get out several glory notes, but that’s the problem, it’s just okay or good with Gokey at this point, nothing great… and he needs to be great to win. He does change up the song and make it his own, and does a good, clean job singing the song. I do think this was a much better song than the one Paula chose for him. Randy said he had mad vocals. Kara said it was stunning. Paula said that he left them all breathless. Simon said it was a vocal master-class (I’m pretty sure that’s good, but not sure what it means).
Kris sings “Heartless” by Kanye West, while playing the guitar. I think Kris does a good job, but this is not normally my kind of song and I’m not a Kanye West fan. Randy said it was better than the original. Kara asked him why he didn’t do that with “Apologize” and said it was perfect. Paula liked it. Simon said he had written Kris out after the first “lame song choice”, but it had all changed after that performance.
Adam chooses to sing “Crying” by Aerosmith. This should be right in Glambert’s range because Steven Tyler tends to sing in falsetto part of the time. Adam starts the song out in his real range (no falsetto) and now I know why he sings in falsetto all the time…he can’t sing any other way but screaming falsetto. I’m sure that a lot of people loved that performance, but it was just painful for me. I really like Aerosmith, and I did not like hearing that done to one of their hits. Randy said that Adam is one of the best that they’ve ever had on that stage. Kara said it was amazing and that they’ll see him at the finals. Paula mumbled a bunch of ridiculous stuff. Simon said he wasn’t going to suck up as much as the other three, and that America shouldn’t assume that Adam will be in the final three, but that they need to vote. Then Adam “humbles” himself by saying some clap-trap about how the other two did a great job and competition was tough…which I in no way believe that Adam really believes; his head is so big now that it’s a wonder it can fit on that stage.
At this point I’m only watching to see what happens. I do not have a horse in this race, and don’t much care what the outcome is.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
American Idol Top 4 Results Show
I’m going to make this short and sweet because I just bought Guitar Hero and American Idol for my Wii and I must get back to it!
• Terrible Ford commercial…I used to really like that song.
• Listened to part of the song, but FF through the second half because I couldn’t stand to listen to Danny and Kris sing Alice Cooper.
• Who cares about Paula…not this gal.
• I tried to listen to No Doubt, but Gwen doesn’t sound as good live…and she was majorly out of breath.
• Ryan draws out the results for as long as he can, but eventually sends Kris to safety. WHAT!?!? I really thought he was going home after last night’s performance. Is Danny going home?
• FF through Daughtry. I didn’t watch that season either (not that I don’t like their music, but remember? Guitar Hero awaits!).
• Ryan sends Adam to safety.
• Danny is safe and Allison goes home. I am not overly surprised, but I loved Allison’s voice. I think she’ll do really well out there in the music biz as long as someone doesn’t try to change her or force her to be pop.
• Terrible Ford commercial…I used to really like that song.
• Listened to part of the song, but FF through the second half because I couldn’t stand to listen to Danny and Kris sing Alice Cooper.
• Who cares about Paula…not this gal.
• I tried to listen to No Doubt, but Gwen doesn’t sound as good live…and she was majorly out of breath.
• Ryan draws out the results for as long as he can, but eventually sends Kris to safety. WHAT!?!? I really thought he was going home after last night’s performance. Is Danny going home?
• FF through Daughtry. I didn’t watch that season either (not that I don’t like their music, but remember? Guitar Hero awaits!).
• Ryan sends Adam to safety.
• Danny is safe and Allison goes home. I am not overly surprised, but I loved Allison’s voice. I think she’ll do really well out there in the music biz as long as someone doesn’t try to change her or force her to be pop.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
American Idol – Top Four
We’re gonna rock!! It’s Rock Week. Apparently the contestants didn’t get a “proper” run through because towers were falling down right before dress rehearsal. This week the contestants are going to pair up for some songs. That should be interesting.
So…Slash is the mentor this week. I didn’t realize Slash was a singer, but I do know he’s a rocker.
Adam sings Zeppelin. I just about couldn’t stand to listen to this. It’s not that Glambert was bad, but I don’t like Zeppelin to begin with and then add Adam’s voice… Randy loved it. Kara said that Adam was a rock god. Paula loved it. Simon said it could have been a disaster, but one of his favorite performances of Adam’s and that nobody could top that.
Allison sings Joplin and does a good job. It wasn’t as showy as Adam, but I thought she did a great job of it. Randy said he didn’t love the song choice because it didn’t have the best melody. Kara said Joplin was a good choice, but maybe a different song. Paula said that Allison could play Janice Joplin in a bio-pic (but doesn’t mention the singing…of course). Simon thought she did a good job, but sounded too much like the original.
Danny and Kris sing Stix as a duet. Danny did a pretty good job, but Kris seemed to be struggling to cover a rock band.
Kris sings the Beatles “Come Together”. Kris is just not rock. He hits the notes, but he’s not really believable as a rock singer, even singing something as mild as the Beatles. Randy said he enjoyed it even if Kris isn’t a rock guy. Kara said it wasn’t a great performance and it seemed like he was trying too hard. Paula says a bunch of stuff that doesn’t make sense. Simon says it was like eating ice for lunch.
Danny sings Aerosmith. Danny does an okay job…better than Kris. He adds some weird doo-wap stuff in the middle of the song, and his falsetto was disappointing. Randy thought it was just alright, but it was a good effort. Kara thought he was trying to hard, but liked that he took chances. Paula wasn’t sure it was the best song choice. Simon said he agreed with what everyone said, but the last note was a like a scream from a horror story.
Allison and Adam sing Foghat’s “Slow Ride”. They did a good job, but then…this is their genre.
I think Kris is in trouble this week.
So…Slash is the mentor this week. I didn’t realize Slash was a singer, but I do know he’s a rocker.
Adam sings Zeppelin. I just about couldn’t stand to listen to this. It’s not that Glambert was bad, but I don’t like Zeppelin to begin with and then add Adam’s voice… Randy loved it. Kara said that Adam was a rock god. Paula loved it. Simon said it could have been a disaster, but one of his favorite performances of Adam’s and that nobody could top that.
Allison sings Joplin and does a good job. It wasn’t as showy as Adam, but I thought she did a great job of it. Randy said he didn’t love the song choice because it didn’t have the best melody. Kara said Joplin was a good choice, but maybe a different song. Paula said that Allison could play Janice Joplin in a bio-pic (but doesn’t mention the singing…of course). Simon thought she did a good job, but sounded too much like the original.
Danny and Kris sing Stix as a duet. Danny did a pretty good job, but Kris seemed to be struggling to cover a rock band.
Kris sings the Beatles “Come Together”. Kris is just not rock. He hits the notes, but he’s not really believable as a rock singer, even singing something as mild as the Beatles. Randy said he enjoyed it even if Kris isn’t a rock guy. Kara said it wasn’t a great performance and it seemed like he was trying too hard. Paula says a bunch of stuff that doesn’t make sense. Simon says it was like eating ice for lunch.
Danny sings Aerosmith. Danny does an okay job…better than Kris. He adds some weird doo-wap stuff in the middle of the song, and his falsetto was disappointing. Randy thought it was just alright, but it was a good effort. Kara thought he was trying to hard, but liked that he took chances. Paula wasn’t sure it was the best song choice. Simon said he agreed with what everyone said, but the last note was a like a scream from a horror story.
Allison and Adam sing Foghat’s “Slow Ride”. They did a good job, but then…this is their genre.
I think Kris is in trouble this week.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
American Idol Top 10 Results Show
Ford Commercial: slow motion running with fast driving. It was pretty stupid. You would think they would be getting better, not worse.
Danny didn’t look like he was really into tonight’s choreography for the group sing. Glambert was loving it of course (it is fairly theatrical), and he used his Axle Rose voice.
Apparently baking cakes went horribly wrong for the contestants this week, especially Danny and Allison…food fight video.
It’s down to just five, so Ryan does his announcements a little differently. Matt goes to the right side of the stage and Danny goes to the left. Allison goes to the left and Kris goes and stands next to Matt. Adam is in a category all his own…actually, he makes Adam pick his own group and Adam goes to stand by Allison and Danny. Oh, but wait! Adam was wrong! Ryan tells him he’s in the bottom three with Kris and Matt and that Allison and Danny are safe.
The judges act like they’re shocked that Adam is in the bottom three, but I find it hard to believe that they don’t already know. They quickly “recover” and say that there’s only five left, so someone has to be in the bottom.
Of course, Adam won’t go home…unfortunately.
I would FF through Natalie Cole, but I’m watching it live. Maybe I will go watch something saved on my Tivo for a few minutes…
After a lot of crap (Taylor Hicks)…
Kris gets moved to safety. I wonder if that means he wasn’t in the bottom two, or if they just want everyone to know it’s going to be Matt? I was so sure that it would be Adam.
I so wish I could have just FF through all the extra singers. Why did Jamie Foxx feel it was necessary to make his voice sound electronic? This is why I don’t listen to popular music anymore.
After a jab at Simon, Ryan finally gets to it and tells Adam that he’s safe. Which means that Matt is going home, just two weeks after he was originally supposed to go home.
So, Matt goes home, and we have Adam, Danny, Allison and Kris left. It will be interesting to see who will go home next week. I think that, in the end, it will be Danny verses Adam, but I was surprised to see Adam in the bottom this week, so it’s hard to tell what will happen on American Idol.
Danny didn’t look like he was really into tonight’s choreography for the group sing. Glambert was loving it of course (it is fairly theatrical), and he used his Axle Rose voice.
Apparently baking cakes went horribly wrong for the contestants this week, especially Danny and Allison…food fight video.
It’s down to just five, so Ryan does his announcements a little differently. Matt goes to the right side of the stage and Danny goes to the left. Allison goes to the left and Kris goes and stands next to Matt. Adam is in a category all his own…actually, he makes Adam pick his own group and Adam goes to stand by Allison and Danny. Oh, but wait! Adam was wrong! Ryan tells him he’s in the bottom three with Kris and Matt and that Allison and Danny are safe.
The judges act like they’re shocked that Adam is in the bottom three, but I find it hard to believe that they don’t already know. They quickly “recover” and say that there’s only five left, so someone has to be in the bottom.
Of course, Adam won’t go home…unfortunately.
I would FF through Natalie Cole, but I’m watching it live. Maybe I will go watch something saved on my Tivo for a few minutes…
After a lot of crap (Taylor Hicks)…
Kris gets moved to safety. I wonder if that means he wasn’t in the bottom two, or if they just want everyone to know it’s going to be Matt? I was so sure that it would be Adam.
I so wish I could have just FF through all the extra singers. Why did Jamie Foxx feel it was necessary to make his voice sound electronic? This is why I don’t listen to popular music anymore.
After a jab at Simon, Ryan finally gets to it and tells Adam that he’s safe. Which means that Matt is going home, just two weeks after he was originally supposed to go home.
So, Matt goes home, and we have Adam, Danny, Allison and Kris left. It will be interesting to see who will go home next week. I think that, in the end, it will be Danny verses Adam, but I was surprised to see Adam in the bottom this week, so it’s hard to tell what will happen on American Idol.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
American Idol Top 5
I’m not sure I’m even up to watching AI tonight, but…I will anyway. I’m not really rooting for anyone this season, so it’s not as fun. I guess you could say that I’m rooting against Glambert, but I’m not sure that counts.
This week’s theme is The Rat Pack. For some reason, they bring in Jamie Foxx to help teach this genre of music. Okay…?
Kris chooses to sing “The Way You Look Tonight”. He started out singing this classically with all the big band feel that the original had to it. I think his voice sounded beautiful. He sped it up at the end and added a little twist. Randy thought it was Kris’ best performance yet. Kara (who, by the way, is dressed for the theme) said he was the “dark horse” of the competition (still Kara? There are only 5 left). Paula loved it. Simon thought it was good, but said it was a little bit “wet”. For once, I’m not sure what he means.
Allison sings “Someone To Watch Over Me”. I just love her voice. It wouldn’t be so great if it was coming out of a 50-year-old smoker, but out of a girl that just turned 17, it is amazing. She sings the song very traditionally, but it is beautifully done. Randy thought it was the bomb. Kara said Allison was not just a one-trick-pony that could only sing rock. Paula was proud of her. Simon thought it was a great performance, but isn’t sure that Allison believes that she can win and that might put her in trouble. He said it might be that she’s been over-shadowed by the other personalities.
Matt sings “My Funny Valentine”. He got pulled from the brink and then they throw him a softball theme. This is perfect for Matt and his singing style. However, I didn’t think he did as good as he could have, or as good as I expected from him. There were some notes that he just didn’t hit right. Randy thought it was a little bit pitchy and that it didn’t all come together right. Kara didn’t think he was emotionally connected to it. Paula loved it (but to be fair, she’s probably high). Simon disagrees with Randy and thought that it was brilliant and the only believable performance of the night (huh?).
Danny sings “Come Rain or Come Shine”. Like Allison, I think Danny’s gravely voice sounds good in this genre of music. It adds emotion to the song. Danny gives another traditional performance for the most part, but it sounds good. He did end with almost a gospel note to the song, which was cool. Randy said Danny was the only one he’d heard that night that could put out an album of songs just like that. Kara said he had swagger tonight, and the end was the most creative Danny had been with a melody. Paula said it was stellar. Simon said Kara was a 100% right, and that Danny came out to prove a point and he did.
Adam gets the pimp slot tonight (as if he needs it…well, maybe he does with this genre). I’m actually a little scared to see what Adam might do with a Rat Pat song. Maybe he will play it safe and it will be a fairly traditional version...yeah right. He sings “Feeling Good” and he chooses a version with a rock edge. Adam was in full Glambert mode tonight. I was waiting for the chorus line to come out behind him and start dancing. I just don’t understand why he doesn’t try out for Broadway instead of trying for a pop career. Maybe that is his intention and he is using AI as a vehicle to get to Broadway… Glambert’s performance was way over the top. Randy thought it was a little to theatrical, dramatic and Broadway, but that Adam was in the zone consistently. Kara said he was confusing, shocking, way over the top and sleazy in a good way (huh?). Paula was creaming again…enough said. Simon says that Adam is theater and that is why he is theatrical.
If Glambert ever decides to go on Broadway, I will fully support that decision and I will buy his show tunes. He was wonderfully dramatic tonight, and if I had been watching him in a musical, I would have been standing on my feet too. This is just not the competition for him.
I think Matt is in trouble again. Out of the five, I think he did the worst and deserves to go home.
This week’s theme is The Rat Pack. For some reason, they bring in Jamie Foxx to help teach this genre of music. Okay…?
Kris chooses to sing “The Way You Look Tonight”. He started out singing this classically with all the big band feel that the original had to it. I think his voice sounded beautiful. He sped it up at the end and added a little twist. Randy thought it was Kris’ best performance yet. Kara (who, by the way, is dressed for the theme) said he was the “dark horse” of the competition (still Kara? There are only 5 left). Paula loved it. Simon thought it was good, but said it was a little bit “wet”. For once, I’m not sure what he means.
Allison sings “Someone To Watch Over Me”. I just love her voice. It wouldn’t be so great if it was coming out of a 50-year-old smoker, but out of a girl that just turned 17, it is amazing. She sings the song very traditionally, but it is beautifully done. Randy thought it was the bomb. Kara said Allison was not just a one-trick-pony that could only sing rock. Paula was proud of her. Simon thought it was a great performance, but isn’t sure that Allison believes that she can win and that might put her in trouble. He said it might be that she’s been over-shadowed by the other personalities.
Matt sings “My Funny Valentine”. He got pulled from the brink and then they throw him a softball theme. This is perfect for Matt and his singing style. However, I didn’t think he did as good as he could have, or as good as I expected from him. There were some notes that he just didn’t hit right. Randy thought it was a little bit pitchy and that it didn’t all come together right. Kara didn’t think he was emotionally connected to it. Paula loved it (but to be fair, she’s probably high). Simon disagrees with Randy and thought that it was brilliant and the only believable performance of the night (huh?).
Danny sings “Come Rain or Come Shine”. Like Allison, I think Danny’s gravely voice sounds good in this genre of music. It adds emotion to the song. Danny gives another traditional performance for the most part, but it sounds good. He did end with almost a gospel note to the song, which was cool. Randy said Danny was the only one he’d heard that night that could put out an album of songs just like that. Kara said he had swagger tonight, and the end was the most creative Danny had been with a melody. Paula said it was stellar. Simon said Kara was a 100% right, and that Danny came out to prove a point and he did.
Adam gets the pimp slot tonight (as if he needs it…well, maybe he does with this genre). I’m actually a little scared to see what Adam might do with a Rat Pat song. Maybe he will play it safe and it will be a fairly traditional version...yeah right. He sings “Feeling Good” and he chooses a version with a rock edge. Adam was in full Glambert mode tonight. I was waiting for the chorus line to come out behind him and start dancing. I just don’t understand why he doesn’t try out for Broadway instead of trying for a pop career. Maybe that is his intention and he is using AI as a vehicle to get to Broadway… Glambert’s performance was way over the top. Randy thought it was a little to theatrical, dramatic and Broadway, but that Adam was in the zone consistently. Kara said he was confusing, shocking, way over the top and sleazy in a good way (huh?). Paula was creaming again…enough said. Simon says that Adam is theater and that is why he is theatrical.
If Glambert ever decides to go on Broadway, I will fully support that decision and I will buy his show tunes. He was wonderfully dramatic tonight, and if I had been watching him in a musical, I would have been standing on my feet too. This is just not the competition for him.
I think Matt is in trouble again. Out of the five, I think he did the worst and deserves to go home.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
American Idol – Top 7…Again
This week AI is going to kick off two contestants because of last week’s Judges save. This is going to be disco week. I guess disco didn’t die. Actually, I like a lot of the disco songs…
Paula appears to be wearing an unusually sober outfit. Well, sober for Paula. Usually there are at least feathers or an abnormal amount of sequins involved in one of her outfits. Don’t get me wrong though…there were sequins.
Lil starts us out almost immediately with “I’m Every Woman” (no videos this week, but we’re back to hearing from all four judges). Lil is wearing a terrible black spandex suit, but her extensions look nice. Her singing is especially terrible this week; it’s super shaky. I really can’t believe she’s still in the competition. Randy said it sounded “wild”. Kara agreed with Randy and said that she’d been every other woman on the stage except Lil. Paula said that it was a remarkable recovery from being on vocal rest the day before, but that Lil didn’t tap into her inner goddess. Simon said he thought this would be the last week they would see her.
Kris sings “She Works Hard For The Money”. Kris totally changes up the song and doesn’t sound like a disco song at all, especially with all the acoustic guitar and bongos. I liked this arrangement even though it’s not my type of music. It was interesting and original. Kara said he took a real risk and it paid off big time. Paula said it had a Santana feel to it (I agree…for once). Simon says he never understands what Paula is saying (in reference to her comment about Kris shopping in the women’s department for a song) and said it was the polar opposite of Lil’s performance. Randy said this proves that Kris is ready for the big time.
Danny sings “September”. Danny keeps the song fairly close to the original. I was hoping for something more original. I would have liked to see him rock out a disco hit, but… He hits the notes, and he will be safe this week. Randy said he had been worried when he heard Danny’s song choice, but that he worked it out. Kara said he was an incredible vocalist. Paula said Danny has a sexy voice. Simon said he agrees with what the other judges said, but didn’t get any star power from the performance because there was nothing special about it.
Allison sings “Hot Stuff”. Allison fulfils my hopes that she could turn a disco hit into a rock hit. It reminded me of something from Heart. I liked her performance and I think it would be a shame if she is in the bottom three again this week. This girl can sing and there’s a future for her in music. Randy said he didn’t love the arrangement, but that Allison is one of the best singers in the competition and she can really sing. Kara agreed with Randy. Paula said that Allison brought edginess. Simon said it was a brilliant performance.
AI is really speeding through the performances and judges comments tonight. Dare I say we might get done on time?
Paula continues to say asinine things. I’m in total agreement with Simon… we could really use a translator for Paula. I wonder how long she sits trying to come up with her comments. Possible, someone is writing them for her (and if so, they need to be fired). They are meant to sound witty, but just make her sound like she’s on something (and she might be).
As a side note, I got to see the controversial Sponge Bob, BK, Baby Got Back commercial. It is a little weird to have Sir Mix A Lot singing about a BK kid’s meal…
Adam sings “If I Can’t Have You”, which he turns into a ballad. I still don’t like his voice, but I liked I this arrangement. Yes, I said it…I liked something that Glambert did. The voice was still grating and annoying, but I liked how he slowed down the song. This may not be Adam’s most memorable performance though. Randy said Adam shows his range and that Adam is ready to record. Kara said he was brilliant and this was the most memorable performance. Paula is in love and would probably date Adam if he wasn’t gay. She said it was like he “tore his heart out and left it on the stage.” Simon loved that it was original and it was memorable with immaculate vocals.
Matt sings “Staying Alive”. He takes it from a disco dance song to an R&B dance song. Good, but not great. I’m not sure this will keep him out of the bottom three. Only time will tell. Paula’s up and dancing though. Randy starts out with his whole, “All right, yo. Uhhh..”, so you know he didn’t love it. He said he didn’t love the song choice or arrangement, but that Matt can really sing. Kara says that Matt brought disco back and it was a solid performance. Paula liked it (actually she said something about bowling, but…). Simon said he didn’t like it because the song came across as a “bit desperate”.
Anoop sings “Dim All The Lights” and sports new facial hair. I don’t remember this song. He sings it as a ballad, but without remembering the original, it’s hard to do a comparison. Randy said he didn’t love the arrangement, but that Anoop can sing. Kara said it was a great song choice and thought it could be on the radio. She also said it was one of his best performances. Paula comments on Anoop’s look (she liked it) and loved his voice. Simon disagreed and said it was “mediocre at best” and Anoop’s worst performance.
I’m going to say that Lil, Anoop and Matt will be in the bottom three, possibly Allison (but she doesn’t deserve to be there). Lil is definitely going home tomorrow and I would choose Matt to go with her.
Ryan kills my AI buzz with the news that David Crapuletta will be performing tomorrow. I will have to listen to part of it just to remind myself how bad Wheezy really is.
Paula appears to be wearing an unusually sober outfit. Well, sober for Paula. Usually there are at least feathers or an abnormal amount of sequins involved in one of her outfits. Don’t get me wrong though…there were sequins.
Lil starts us out almost immediately with “I’m Every Woman” (no videos this week, but we’re back to hearing from all four judges). Lil is wearing a terrible black spandex suit, but her extensions look nice. Her singing is especially terrible this week; it’s super shaky. I really can’t believe she’s still in the competition. Randy said it sounded “wild”. Kara agreed with Randy and said that she’d been every other woman on the stage except Lil. Paula said that it was a remarkable recovery from being on vocal rest the day before, but that Lil didn’t tap into her inner goddess. Simon said he thought this would be the last week they would see her.
Kris sings “She Works Hard For The Money”. Kris totally changes up the song and doesn’t sound like a disco song at all, especially with all the acoustic guitar and bongos. I liked this arrangement even though it’s not my type of music. It was interesting and original. Kara said he took a real risk and it paid off big time. Paula said it had a Santana feel to it (I agree…for once). Simon says he never understands what Paula is saying (in reference to her comment about Kris shopping in the women’s department for a song) and said it was the polar opposite of Lil’s performance. Randy said this proves that Kris is ready for the big time.
Danny sings “September”. Danny keeps the song fairly close to the original. I was hoping for something more original. I would have liked to see him rock out a disco hit, but… He hits the notes, and he will be safe this week. Randy said he had been worried when he heard Danny’s song choice, but that he worked it out. Kara said he was an incredible vocalist. Paula said Danny has a sexy voice. Simon said he agrees with what the other judges said, but didn’t get any star power from the performance because there was nothing special about it.
Allison sings “Hot Stuff”. Allison fulfils my hopes that she could turn a disco hit into a rock hit. It reminded me of something from Heart. I liked her performance and I think it would be a shame if she is in the bottom three again this week. This girl can sing and there’s a future for her in music. Randy said he didn’t love the arrangement, but that Allison is one of the best singers in the competition and she can really sing. Kara agreed with Randy. Paula said that Allison brought edginess. Simon said it was a brilliant performance.
AI is really speeding through the performances and judges comments tonight. Dare I say we might get done on time?
Paula continues to say asinine things. I’m in total agreement with Simon… we could really use a translator for Paula. I wonder how long she sits trying to come up with her comments. Possible, someone is writing them for her (and if so, they need to be fired). They are meant to sound witty, but just make her sound like she’s on something (and she might be).
As a side note, I got to see the controversial Sponge Bob, BK, Baby Got Back commercial. It is a little weird to have Sir Mix A Lot singing about a BK kid’s meal…
Adam sings “If I Can’t Have You”, which he turns into a ballad. I still don’t like his voice, but I liked I this arrangement. Yes, I said it…I liked something that Glambert did. The voice was still grating and annoying, but I liked how he slowed down the song. This may not be Adam’s most memorable performance though. Randy said Adam shows his range and that Adam is ready to record. Kara said he was brilliant and this was the most memorable performance. Paula is in love and would probably date Adam if he wasn’t gay. She said it was like he “tore his heart out and left it on the stage.” Simon loved that it was original and it was memorable with immaculate vocals.
Matt sings “Staying Alive”. He takes it from a disco dance song to an R&B dance song. Good, but not great. I’m not sure this will keep him out of the bottom three. Only time will tell. Paula’s up and dancing though. Randy starts out with his whole, “All right, yo. Uhhh..”, so you know he didn’t love it. He said he didn’t love the song choice or arrangement, but that Matt can really sing. Kara says that Matt brought disco back and it was a solid performance. Paula liked it (actually she said something about bowling, but…). Simon said he didn’t like it because the song came across as a “bit desperate”.
Anoop sings “Dim All The Lights” and sports new facial hair. I don’t remember this song. He sings it as a ballad, but without remembering the original, it’s hard to do a comparison. Randy said he didn’t love the arrangement, but that Anoop can sing. Kara said it was a great song choice and thought it could be on the radio. She also said it was one of his best performances. Paula comments on Anoop’s look (she liked it) and loved his voice. Simon disagreed and said it was “mediocre at best” and Anoop’s worst performance.
I’m going to say that Lil, Anoop and Matt will be in the bottom three, possibly Allison (but she doesn’t deserve to be there). Lil is definitely going home tomorrow and I would choose Matt to go with her.
Ryan kills my AI buzz with the news that David Crapuletta will be performing tomorrow. I will have to listen to part of it just to remind myself how bad Wheezy really is.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
American Idol Top 7 Results Show
AI does this ridiculous opening bit that’s supposed to look like a trailer for an action movie. Lot’s of weird shots of Tarantino in the audience.
Apparently an “all-star line-up” includes Miley Cyrus…really?
I’m guessing that the judges will most likely use their save on anyone but Lil tonight. If they don’t use it tonight, they only have one more week to use it.
Corney and badly sung Ford commercial. They’ve done better.
The contestants sing “Maniac” from Flashdance. Lil sucks up the stage like a Hoover. She really needs to go tonight.
Sadly…I actually want to see 17 Again. I know it’s Zach Effron, but it looks like a good movie.
• Allison is safe (I might have protested if she wasn’t)
• Adam is safe – he didn’t even look worried…
• Anoop is in the bottom three. I’m not terribly surprised, but I am disappointed. Ryan tries to draw out the suspence, but Anoop says, “come on Ryan.”
Jennifer Hudson reunion. She’s probably the idol alum that’s gone the farthest…she won an Oscar for goodness sake. She said this was her first time on AI since she had been kicked off. I watched part of her performance…this was not my favorite of her songs. She seemed to be having problems with her earwig. Possibly it was not live…hard to tell with AI.
Ryan talks to Anoop and he says that he’s actually surprised to be sitting in the bottom three. Simon says he deserves to be there. Which is a little odd since he gave him good reviews after Anoop sang.
• Kris and Lil stand up. I think they should both be in the bottom three based on last night’s performance (along with Matt). Hopefully Lil will be in the bottom three (and go home tonight). Kris is safe, Lil is in the bottom three.
• Matt and Danny stand. Matt should definitely be in the bottom based on last night’s performance. Danny is safe, and Matt joins Anoop and Lil.
Bottom Three: Anoop, Lil and Matt
Kara says it is the right three. Paula says they all had flaws in their performances and that’s why they’re there.
Ryan sends Anoop back to the couches. Yippee!
This is the first time I’ve ever heard Miley Cyrus sing or even heard one of heard songs. Can someone tell me why she is singing through her nose? Is she even opening her mouth? Unfortunately, I have caught up to live television and can’t fast forward. Oh the torture. Add the bad dance movements to the nasally singing and I just want to slit my wrists. I can’t believe millions of tween girls are fascinated by her. Give me Selena Gomez any day. Oh, my achey breaky ears!
Please tell me that Lil is going home in order to make up for having to listen to Miley…
OMG!!!!!!! I can’t believe Lil is safe. She has sucked hard for the last 5 weeks!
Matt now has to sing for his life. He’s not doing a very good job of it.
The judges decide to save Matt…although Simon seemed a little reluctant to do so. That means that two people get kicked off next week. And it’s Disco Week. I’ll be looking forward to some Jive Talkin’!
Apparently an “all-star line-up” includes Miley Cyrus…really?
I’m guessing that the judges will most likely use their save on anyone but Lil tonight. If they don’t use it tonight, they only have one more week to use it.
Corney and badly sung Ford commercial. They’ve done better.
The contestants sing “Maniac” from Flashdance. Lil sucks up the stage like a Hoover. She really needs to go tonight.
Sadly…I actually want to see 17 Again. I know it’s Zach Effron, but it looks like a good movie.
• Allison is safe (I might have protested if she wasn’t)
• Adam is safe – he didn’t even look worried…
• Anoop is in the bottom three. I’m not terribly surprised, but I am disappointed. Ryan tries to draw out the suspence, but Anoop says, “come on Ryan.”
Jennifer Hudson reunion. She’s probably the idol alum that’s gone the farthest…she won an Oscar for goodness sake. She said this was her first time on AI since she had been kicked off. I watched part of her performance…this was not my favorite of her songs. She seemed to be having problems with her earwig. Possibly it was not live…hard to tell with AI.
Ryan talks to Anoop and he says that he’s actually surprised to be sitting in the bottom three. Simon says he deserves to be there. Which is a little odd since he gave him good reviews after Anoop sang.
• Kris and Lil stand up. I think they should both be in the bottom three based on last night’s performance (along with Matt). Hopefully Lil will be in the bottom three (and go home tonight). Kris is safe, Lil is in the bottom three.
• Matt and Danny stand. Matt should definitely be in the bottom based on last night’s performance. Danny is safe, and Matt joins Anoop and Lil.
Bottom Three: Anoop, Lil and Matt
Kara says it is the right three. Paula says they all had flaws in their performances and that’s why they’re there.
Ryan sends Anoop back to the couches. Yippee!
This is the first time I’ve ever heard Miley Cyrus sing or even heard one of heard songs. Can someone tell me why she is singing through her nose? Is she even opening her mouth? Unfortunately, I have caught up to live television and can’t fast forward. Oh the torture. Add the bad dance movements to the nasally singing and I just want to slit my wrists. I can’t believe millions of tween girls are fascinated by her. Give me Selena Gomez any day. Oh, my achey breaky ears!
Please tell me that Lil is going home in order to make up for having to listen to Miley…
OMG!!!!!!! I can’t believe Lil is safe. She has sucked hard for the last 5 weeks!
Matt now has to sing for his life. He’s not doing a very good job of it.
The judges decide to save Matt…although Simon seemed a little reluctant to do so. That means that two people get kicked off next week. And it’s Disco Week. I’ll be looking forward to some Jive Talkin’!
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
American Idol Top 7
They are only letting two judges talk for each contestant after last week’s fiasco of running over the hour time limit. Simon says it’s the girls’ fault, but I think it might be the 7 minutes (I timed it) of introducing the judges as well as the Quentin Tarantino background crap. Quentin’s there because it is Songs from the Movies night. I’m going to miss hearing what Simon has to say on all the contestants' performances. He is often the only one in his right mind.
Allison sings “I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing” and I loved her rendition. There were a few times I thought she was going to get off key, but she always managed to pull it back just in time. Paula says that Allison “possesses the same special sauce” as Adam does. That creeped me out. What special sauce is Paula talking about anyway? Simon thought it might be BBQ sauce. He said she was the girls’ only hope left in the competition.
Anoop sings “Everything I Do” by Bryan Adams. Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves is one of my all time favorite movies. I think Anoop does a good job with this song. It’s not his usual song type, but he belts it out and hits all the notes, showing that he is versatile. Randy says that Anoop has found his zone over the last couple of weeks, and that he did a really good job. Kara agrees and said she felt connected to his singing.
Adam sings “Born To Be Wild”. What can I say? I can barely stand to watch this hypocrisy any longer. The arrangement was good, but I can’t stand Glambert. It’s all an act people. If you can’t get that, you need to get some glasses and hearing aids. Having said that, Glambert did an excellent impression of Axl Rose with the running around and the glory note at the end. Has anyone seen Axl in awhile? Maybe Glambert’s channeling him somehow. Axl, I mean Glambert, finishes and is soooo… proud of himself. Paula is creaming all over herself again. She says that he “dares to dance in the path of greatness.” Simon says it was vocally incredibly, but a little like watching The Rocky Horror Picture Show and didn’t think that performance would be as popular as last week’s.
Matt sings another Bryan Adam’s song with “Have You Ever Really Loved A Woman”. I think Matt drops the ball on this arrangement as well as with his vocals. There are some moments when he can’t seem to hit the right notes. Randy thought he “fell down” in more places tonight that he did right. Kara didn’t like it either.
At this point I’m noticing that Quentin is directing his own video clips. You can see him nod when he is done talking about the contestant as if he’s saying “cut”.
By the time Danny comes out, the 2 judge system has obviously produced too much extra time, and Ryan spends time asking Danny about his new guitar.
Danny sings “Endless Love” by Lionel Richie. He does a good job, but it wasn’t his best. I’m not sure he made the song contemporary in any way, especially with the harp playing in the background. Paula loved it. Simon said he couldn’t fault Danny’s singing, but he didn’t like the harp, and thought it was a traditional version of the song (sounds a lot like what I said).
Kris sings “Falling Slowly”. I’m not sure I recognize this song or the movie it’s from, however, I thought Kris did a good job. Like Danny, I didn’t think it was Kris’ best, but it was respectable. Randy said it was pitchy from note one. Kara said it was one of his best moments ever.
Now they’re rushing again. Can’t they decide how to do this? This is not the first time…it’s season EIGHT!
Lil gets the pimp slot and boy does she need it. I continue to be amazed that she hasn’t been kicked off yet. She sings “The Rose”. Not a huge surprise, although I thought she would choose “I Will Always Love You” from The Bodyguard. This is nothing like Mary J. Blige, so I doubt the judges will like it. This is most her unique rendition of a song yet with it’s gospel flair in the middle, however, Lil continues to be technically good, but without any spark or sense of who Lil really is. Paula says nothing about Lil’s singing, instead choosing to comment on the song’s lyrics. Simon says he has no idea what Paula just said, and tells Lil that she once again got it completely wrong, the song was too soft with her. Lil tries to defend herself, but it doesn’t work.
They go over this week as well, but not as bad as last week. I think Lil is in trouble (but I’ve said that before). We’re getting down to the best of this season, so it is harder to chose the bottom three. I’m going to pick Matt and Kris to join Lil, but I won’t be surprised if Anoop ends up in the bottom because he’s spent so much time there in the past.
Allison sings “I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing” and I loved her rendition. There were a few times I thought she was going to get off key, but she always managed to pull it back just in time. Paula says that Allison “possesses the same special sauce” as Adam does. That creeped me out. What special sauce is Paula talking about anyway? Simon thought it might be BBQ sauce. He said she was the girls’ only hope left in the competition.
Anoop sings “Everything I Do” by Bryan Adams. Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves is one of my all time favorite movies. I think Anoop does a good job with this song. It’s not his usual song type, but he belts it out and hits all the notes, showing that he is versatile. Randy says that Anoop has found his zone over the last couple of weeks, and that he did a really good job. Kara agrees and said she felt connected to his singing.
Adam sings “Born To Be Wild”. What can I say? I can barely stand to watch this hypocrisy any longer. The arrangement was good, but I can’t stand Glambert. It’s all an act people. If you can’t get that, you need to get some glasses and hearing aids. Having said that, Glambert did an excellent impression of Axl Rose with the running around and the glory note at the end. Has anyone seen Axl in awhile? Maybe Glambert’s channeling him somehow. Axl, I mean Glambert, finishes and is soooo… proud of himself. Paula is creaming all over herself again. She says that he “dares to dance in the path of greatness.” Simon says it was vocally incredibly, but a little like watching The Rocky Horror Picture Show and didn’t think that performance would be as popular as last week’s.
Matt sings another Bryan Adam’s song with “Have You Ever Really Loved A Woman”. I think Matt drops the ball on this arrangement as well as with his vocals. There are some moments when he can’t seem to hit the right notes. Randy thought he “fell down” in more places tonight that he did right. Kara didn’t like it either.
At this point I’m noticing that Quentin is directing his own video clips. You can see him nod when he is done talking about the contestant as if he’s saying “cut”.
By the time Danny comes out, the 2 judge system has obviously produced too much extra time, and Ryan spends time asking Danny about his new guitar.
Danny sings “Endless Love” by Lionel Richie. He does a good job, but it wasn’t his best. I’m not sure he made the song contemporary in any way, especially with the harp playing in the background. Paula loved it. Simon said he couldn’t fault Danny’s singing, but he didn’t like the harp, and thought it was a traditional version of the song (sounds a lot like what I said).
Kris sings “Falling Slowly”. I’m not sure I recognize this song or the movie it’s from, however, I thought Kris did a good job. Like Danny, I didn’t think it was Kris’ best, but it was respectable. Randy said it was pitchy from note one. Kara said it was one of his best moments ever.
Now they’re rushing again. Can’t they decide how to do this? This is not the first time…it’s season EIGHT!
Lil gets the pimp slot and boy does she need it. I continue to be amazed that she hasn’t been kicked off yet. She sings “The Rose”. Not a huge surprise, although I thought she would choose “I Will Always Love You” from The Bodyguard. This is nothing like Mary J. Blige, so I doubt the judges will like it. This is most her unique rendition of a song yet with it’s gospel flair in the middle, however, Lil continues to be technically good, but without any spark or sense of who Lil really is. Paula says nothing about Lil’s singing, instead choosing to comment on the song’s lyrics. Simon says he has no idea what Paula just said, and tells Lil that she once again got it completely wrong, the song was too soft with her. Lil tries to defend herself, but it doesn’t work.
They go over this week as well, but not as bad as last week. I think Lil is in trouble (but I’ve said that before). We’re getting down to the best of this season, so it is harder to chose the bottom three. I’m going to pick Matt and Kris to join Lil, but I won’t be surprised if Anoop ends up in the bottom because he’s spent so much time there in the past.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
American Idol Top 8 Results Show
The show starts out with a really scary Photoshopped picture of Simon and Paula as babies. It was terrible, and I might have nightmares.
Frankie Avalon sang, and Simon had love in his eyes. It was a little weird and awkward.
They chose the group song from the year AI was born, “Can’t Get You Outta My Head” from 2002. Ummm… not even sure what to say about it, but I’m hoping I get that performance outta my head.
I really wish they would just make this a half hour show. All the extra stuff is so annoying. Just tell me who gets kicked off!
They show the backstage stuff of the Ford commercial. It’s on a stage and very theatrical with glitter face-paint and everything, so Adam, a.k.a. Glambert, is totally in his element.
Adam, Kris and Anoop are pitted against each other. Glambert of course is safe, so it’s between Kris and Anoop…
Anoop is in the bottom three. This is ridiculous.
Of course there is the obligatory guest appearance. This time it is Flo Rida with his ridiculous remake of an awesome 80’s song. I’d never heard it before, but my students ask about it when I play the original. I guess it is a good example of taking a song and making it your own. Of course, in this case, it’s more like sampling than a re-make. I FF through half of it.
Danny stands alone and is told he is safe…not a surprise at this point.
Matt stands alone as well and is told he is safe after a long drawn out affair by Ryan.
Scott stands by himself too (what’s up with this new tactic) and Scott is told he’s in the bottom three.
Lil and Allison go against each other and it’s not even a competition. Everyone knows, including Lil, who is going to be in the bottom three out of these two.
Lil is in the bottom three.
Bottom Three: Anoop, Scott and Lil
Ryan asks Simon about the save and Simon says there’s at least one of them that they would consider saving.
FF through Kelly Pickler. I don’t do country music and I didn’t watch that season anyway.
The bottom three go to center stage and Lil is sent back to the couches. I cannot believe this. I really thought she might go home, but I was sure she would be one slot away from the bottom if she wasn’t in the bottom. I don’t understand Anoop being in the bottom three…especially this week. He did an awesome job last night. People need to get out and rock the Anoop vote. I’m guessing this means that Scott is going home. We all knew from the beginning that his blindness was only going to carry him so far.
Scott has the lowest number of votes, but apparently only 30,000 votes separated them. Scott of course is not going to be saved by the judges. I’m not even sure he has a singing career ahead of him.
Simon says two think Scott should stay and two think he should go. I think he should go because he doesn’t stand a shot of winning. But I do like Scott.
Simon says Scott is going home. They show a video of his time on Idol and all the contestants, including Scott, turn around and watch the video. Which is odd, because obviously Scott can’t see it.
Paula does a mushy ending about how much of an inspiration Scott was, but I don’t think that his blindness should have been a factor in a singing competition. Although I do agree that he was an inspiration to many.
I wish Lil would have gone home, and I still can’t stand Glambert (even though he may win the whole thing).
Frankie Avalon sang, and Simon had love in his eyes. It was a little weird and awkward.
They chose the group song from the year AI was born, “Can’t Get You Outta My Head” from 2002. Ummm… not even sure what to say about it, but I’m hoping I get that performance outta my head.
I really wish they would just make this a half hour show. All the extra stuff is so annoying. Just tell me who gets kicked off!
They show the backstage stuff of the Ford commercial. It’s on a stage and very theatrical with glitter face-paint and everything, so Adam, a.k.a. Glambert, is totally in his element.
Adam, Kris and Anoop are pitted against each other. Glambert of course is safe, so it’s between Kris and Anoop…
Anoop is in the bottom three. This is ridiculous.
Of course there is the obligatory guest appearance. This time it is Flo Rida with his ridiculous remake of an awesome 80’s song. I’d never heard it before, but my students ask about it when I play the original. I guess it is a good example of taking a song and making it your own. Of course, in this case, it’s more like sampling than a re-make. I FF through half of it.
Danny stands alone and is told he is safe…not a surprise at this point.
Matt stands alone as well and is told he is safe after a long drawn out affair by Ryan.
Scott stands by himself too (what’s up with this new tactic) and Scott is told he’s in the bottom three.
Lil and Allison go against each other and it’s not even a competition. Everyone knows, including Lil, who is going to be in the bottom three out of these two.
Lil is in the bottom three.
Bottom Three: Anoop, Scott and Lil
Ryan asks Simon about the save and Simon says there’s at least one of them that they would consider saving.
FF through Kelly Pickler. I don’t do country music and I didn’t watch that season anyway.
The bottom three go to center stage and Lil is sent back to the couches. I cannot believe this. I really thought she might go home, but I was sure she would be one slot away from the bottom if she wasn’t in the bottom. I don’t understand Anoop being in the bottom three…especially this week. He did an awesome job last night. People need to get out and rock the Anoop vote. I’m guessing this means that Scott is going home. We all knew from the beginning that his blindness was only going to carry him so far.
Scott has the lowest number of votes, but apparently only 30,000 votes separated them. Scott of course is not going to be saved by the judges. I’m not even sure he has a singing career ahead of him.
Simon says two think Scott should stay and two think he should go. I think he should go because he doesn’t stand a shot of winning. But I do like Scott.
Simon says Scott is going home. They show a video of his time on Idol and all the contestants, including Scott, turn around and watch the video. Which is odd, because obviously Scott can’t see it.
Paula does a mushy ending about how much of an inspiration Scott was, but I don’t think that his blindness should have been a factor in a singing competition. Although I do agree that he was an inspiration to many.
I wish Lil would have gone home, and I still can’t stand Glambert (even though he may win the whole thing).
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
American Idol Top 8
First of all, let me just say that Adam made it on O’Reilly yesterday. They were discussing the pictures that are now circulating the interweb of Adam kissing guys. Basically the question was whether or not his possibly being gay would affect his chances in the competition. Obviously not. I think the fact that he’s totally faking his persona should affect his chances, but that might just be me.
Theme: Songs from the year the contestant was born. We got to see “baby” photos of the judges as well as the contestants. Except a lot of them aren’t actually baby photos.
Danny - 1980 “Stand by Me” I’m not sure this is fair because he picks an old song that was re-made the year he was born. I think contestants should have to chose a song that first came out the year they were born because this is something I’ve seen several contestants do. I hate how this song started out; it was way too slow. I also didn’t like the cheesy background music. It’s not 1980 anymore, couldn’t this be updated a little? He does a good job though. Randy didn’t like the arrangement, but loved Danny. Kara also didn’t like the arrangement, but thought Danny did a great job. Paula liked the arrangement and liked Danny. Simon said it was overall great.
Kris - 1985 “All She Wants To Do Is Dance” I remember this song, and Kris sure changed it around. I didn’t like the brass in the background because it made the song sound old to me; other than that, it was a good arrangement. I’m not fully loving Kris, but he’s starting to grow on me. Kara said it sounded like Jazz/Funk and lost some of its youth (I agree). Paula said he has to be one of the most likable contestants (never really says much about his performance). Simon said it was indulgent, boring, forgettable and he sounded like a guitarist who wanted to sing instead of a singer. Randy said that the arrangement was a little self-indulgent and Kris was lost in all the brass and horns.
Lil - 1984 “What’s Love Got To Do With It” It starts out sounding just like the original (same instruments, etc.). I don’t think Lil changes it up enough to make it her own. I’m not sure this song is a good one to choose because it is so iconic. I’m afraid anyone who tried to sing it would just sound like they were singing karaoke. Although she hits the notes, she sounds like a poor imitation of Tina Turner. I know she’s hoping the judges wont tell her she chose the wrong song, but… Paula said she needed to go outside the box and prove herself as an artist, and that Lil did not make the song her own. Simon says they are not looking for a 2nd or 3rd rate version of Tina Turner. Randy says she’s “mad talented”, but it’s as if Lil’s not listening to their advice. Kara says that it’s the difference between a singer and an artist.
Anoop - 1986 “True Colors” Before he even starts, I’m so looking forward to this. I can’t wait to see what he’s going to do with a Cindy Lauper song. WOW! He slows it down a little and I love it. It’s totally R&B and now. And he can sing. I thought this was great just for it’s uniqueness and his ability to show who he is and make the song his own. It felt like a totally different song. Randy said it was very nice vocals. Kara said he controlled the song and did not let it control him. Paula said his song choice was flawless and his voice was magical. Simon said he made the song his own and was very good.
Scott - 1985 “The Search Is Over” We see Scott without the piano for the first time…he has a guitar now, although he didn’t play until the chorus. I can only imagine how hard it would be to stand in front of a crowd and not be able to see them. It would make it harder to feed of their energy. I think he does an okay job, but he misses a few notes. I never believed Scott would make it all the way to the end and he may be getting close to his last week (good thing Lil’s so bad this week). Kara said he took on a very difficult song; there were parts she liked, but parts she thought were too ambitious for him. Paula thought the high notes sounded a little screechy, but overall: bravo. Simon said Scott should go back to the piano because that’s were he’s more comfortable, and the song was horrible and didn’t work. Randy said it was just all “okay” and didn’t let him “leap off the stage vocally”.
Allison - 1992 “I Can’t Make You Love Me” I really love Allison’s voice. And once again, I can’t believe she’s only 16. I think she loses a little bit of her rock edge with this song, but I think she did a good job. I don’t think she changed it much, but it was good none-the-less. Paula loved it. Simon thought it was really good, but that Allison’s personality needs to come out more; she needs to talk more. Randy agrees with Simon. Kara said she had talent.
Matt - 1985 “Part Time Lovers” I like the original of this song. Matt does a good job, but throws in a lot of runs and falsetto. I’m not sure all of it was necessary. There’s nothing wrong with how he sings, but I’m just not into all the falsetto and runs; it’s not my style of music. However, he does a good job and I can see why others like him. I guess it’s like country singers for me; some of them sing really well, but I still don’t like their music. Randy said it was vocally one of the best. Kara said it was incredible on every level, Paula said “two words: standing O” (not sure that is really two words, more like one word and a letter…). Simon said it was better than last week, well done.
My Tivo runs out before Adam’s performance. Luckily I also Tivo the show after it, so still caught the performance.
Adam - 1982 “Mad World” First of all, he’s sitting on some kind of glowing chair that makes his crotch area look really weird. Also, if you don’t like falsetto, you’re not going to like Adam…and I’m not into the falsetto. I would say 90% of this song was sung in falsetto and I don’t think that was necessary, plus he misses his last note. I’m sure the adoring tweens (and the judges who pander to them) will love it. Adam is quickly becoming this year’s David Crapuletta for me. Simon says words are unnecessary but gives Adam a standing ovation. No time for the other judges...thankfully.
Two side notes:
I’m really tired of Paula’s namby pamby judging. Half the time she never says anything about the music. She’ll compliment the contestants on their outfits or say something equally inane. I hate it when she does this and it makes her look like she doesn't have a clue what's going on, and lessens her effectiveness as a judge.
I’m not voting this year. I don’t have AT&T, so I can’t text in my votes and I don’t have unlimited minutes, so I’m not going to call in (I don’t have a land line phone). Maybe if there was someone I really liked (like last year) then I would go to my mom’s or something and vote from there.
I think Lil is in major trouble and will most likely be going home. I predict Scott will also be in the bottom three, but unsure of who the third person will be.
*Added Note* I've just been reading Prof Chan's blog over at Vote For The Worst and he has nicknamed Adam Lambert, Glambert. I am soooo... using this from now on.
What is your guess?
Theme: Songs from the year the contestant was born. We got to see “baby” photos of the judges as well as the contestants. Except a lot of them aren’t actually baby photos.
Danny - 1980 “Stand by Me” I’m not sure this is fair because he picks an old song that was re-made the year he was born. I think contestants should have to chose a song that first came out the year they were born because this is something I’ve seen several contestants do. I hate how this song started out; it was way too slow. I also didn’t like the cheesy background music. It’s not 1980 anymore, couldn’t this be updated a little? He does a good job though. Randy didn’t like the arrangement, but loved Danny. Kara also didn’t like the arrangement, but thought Danny did a great job. Paula liked the arrangement and liked Danny. Simon said it was overall great.
Kris - 1985 “All She Wants To Do Is Dance” I remember this song, and Kris sure changed it around. I didn’t like the brass in the background because it made the song sound old to me; other than that, it was a good arrangement. I’m not fully loving Kris, but he’s starting to grow on me. Kara said it sounded like Jazz/Funk and lost some of its youth (I agree). Paula said he has to be one of the most likable contestants (never really says much about his performance). Simon said it was indulgent, boring, forgettable and he sounded like a guitarist who wanted to sing instead of a singer. Randy said that the arrangement was a little self-indulgent and Kris was lost in all the brass and horns.
Lil - 1984 “What’s Love Got To Do With It” It starts out sounding just like the original (same instruments, etc.). I don’t think Lil changes it up enough to make it her own. I’m not sure this song is a good one to choose because it is so iconic. I’m afraid anyone who tried to sing it would just sound like they were singing karaoke. Although she hits the notes, she sounds like a poor imitation of Tina Turner. I know she’s hoping the judges wont tell her she chose the wrong song, but… Paula said she needed to go outside the box and prove herself as an artist, and that Lil did not make the song her own. Simon says they are not looking for a 2nd or 3rd rate version of Tina Turner. Randy says she’s “mad talented”, but it’s as if Lil’s not listening to their advice. Kara says that it’s the difference between a singer and an artist.
Anoop - 1986 “True Colors” Before he even starts, I’m so looking forward to this. I can’t wait to see what he’s going to do with a Cindy Lauper song. WOW! He slows it down a little and I love it. It’s totally R&B and now. And he can sing. I thought this was great just for it’s uniqueness and his ability to show who he is and make the song his own. It felt like a totally different song. Randy said it was very nice vocals. Kara said he controlled the song and did not let it control him. Paula said his song choice was flawless and his voice was magical. Simon said he made the song his own and was very good.
Scott - 1985 “The Search Is Over” We see Scott without the piano for the first time…he has a guitar now, although he didn’t play until the chorus. I can only imagine how hard it would be to stand in front of a crowd and not be able to see them. It would make it harder to feed of their energy. I think he does an okay job, but he misses a few notes. I never believed Scott would make it all the way to the end and he may be getting close to his last week (good thing Lil’s so bad this week). Kara said he took on a very difficult song; there were parts she liked, but parts she thought were too ambitious for him. Paula thought the high notes sounded a little screechy, but overall: bravo. Simon said Scott should go back to the piano because that’s were he’s more comfortable, and the song was horrible and didn’t work. Randy said it was just all “okay” and didn’t let him “leap off the stage vocally”.
Allison - 1992 “I Can’t Make You Love Me” I really love Allison’s voice. And once again, I can’t believe she’s only 16. I think she loses a little bit of her rock edge with this song, but I think she did a good job. I don’t think she changed it much, but it was good none-the-less. Paula loved it. Simon thought it was really good, but that Allison’s personality needs to come out more; she needs to talk more. Randy agrees with Simon. Kara said she had talent.
Matt - 1985 “Part Time Lovers” I like the original of this song. Matt does a good job, but throws in a lot of runs and falsetto. I’m not sure all of it was necessary. There’s nothing wrong with how he sings, but I’m just not into all the falsetto and runs; it’s not my style of music. However, he does a good job and I can see why others like him. I guess it’s like country singers for me; some of them sing really well, but I still don’t like their music. Randy said it was vocally one of the best. Kara said it was incredible on every level, Paula said “two words: standing O” (not sure that is really two words, more like one word and a letter…). Simon said it was better than last week, well done.
My Tivo runs out before Adam’s performance. Luckily I also Tivo the show after it, so still caught the performance.
Adam - 1982 “Mad World” First of all, he’s sitting on some kind of glowing chair that makes his crotch area look really weird. Also, if you don’t like falsetto, you’re not going to like Adam…and I’m not into the falsetto. I would say 90% of this song was sung in falsetto and I don’t think that was necessary, plus he misses his last note. I’m sure the adoring tweens (and the judges who pander to them) will love it. Adam is quickly becoming this year’s David Crapuletta for me. Simon says words are unnecessary but gives Adam a standing ovation. No time for the other judges...thankfully.
Two side notes:
I’m really tired of Paula’s namby pamby judging. Half the time she never says anything about the music. She’ll compliment the contestants on their outfits or say something equally inane. I hate it when she does this and it makes her look like she doesn't have a clue what's going on, and lessens her effectiveness as a judge.
I’m not voting this year. I don’t have AT&T, so I can’t text in my votes and I don’t have unlimited minutes, so I’m not going to call in (I don’t have a land line phone). Maybe if there was someone I really liked (like last year) then I would go to my mom’s or something and vote from there.
I think Lil is in major trouble and will most likely be going home. I predict Scott will also be in the bottom three, but unsure of who the third person will be.
*Added Note* I've just been reading Prof Chan's blog over at Vote For The Worst and he has nicknamed Adam Lambert, Glambert. I am soooo... using this from now on.
What is your guess?
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
American Idol Top 9 Results Show
Simon says Anoop, Matt and Megan should be worried.
The Ford commercial was a little “mixed up”. Not my favorite.
The Idol’s sang Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing”. Journey is probably my favorite band and I hate to see this done to one of their songs. It was really terrible. Poor Steve Perry is probably rolling in his figurative grave.
• Megan, Matt and Kris stand up and all have to go to the stage.
• Adam, Lil, and Alison all stand up and have to go to the center of the stage.
• Scott, Danny and Anoop all stand up and go to the stage as well.
Now all 9 are standing in the stage. Apparently one group is the bottom three. If that’s true, then it is definitely Megan, Matt and Kris. But they pick one from each group, which is not what Brian led us to believe would happen. Big surprise.
David Cook sings. I Heart David Cook. This is one performance I’m going to watch. I love that he’s still playing the same guitar with his brother’s initials on it as he did during last season. Awww…I miss David. I just don’t feel the same pull toward the contestants this year as I did last year when I definitely had favorites and those I hated. Of course, I’m slowly building up a hatred for Adam.
• Kris is safe
• Matt is safe
• Megan is in the bottom three and does a weird bird call and wing flapping thing on her way to the stools.
• Lil is safe
• Allison is in the bottom three (but I don’t think she’s going home)
• Adam is safe (no big surprise after the judges practically gave him a pass)
• Danny is safe
• Scott is safe
• Anoop is in the bottom three
Bottom Three: Megan, Allison and Anoop
FF through the crazy lady with the make-up and the weird pink piano.
Simon says one of the bottom three would be worth saving, my guess would be Allison.
Allison is safe, so it is now between Anoop and Megan.
Megan is on the bottom and is most definitely going home. I am so glad. Simon says that he’s not even going to pretend to re-evaluate her. Then I FF through Megan’s song.
Is your favorite still in the running?
The Ford commercial was a little “mixed up”. Not my favorite.
The Idol’s sang Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing”. Journey is probably my favorite band and I hate to see this done to one of their songs. It was really terrible. Poor Steve Perry is probably rolling in his figurative grave.
• Megan, Matt and Kris stand up and all have to go to the stage.
• Adam, Lil, and Alison all stand up and have to go to the center of the stage.
• Scott, Danny and Anoop all stand up and go to the stage as well.
Now all 9 are standing in the stage. Apparently one group is the bottom three. If that’s true, then it is definitely Megan, Matt and Kris. But they pick one from each group, which is not what Brian led us to believe would happen. Big surprise.
David Cook sings. I Heart David Cook. This is one performance I’m going to watch. I love that he’s still playing the same guitar with his brother’s initials on it as he did during last season. Awww…I miss David. I just don’t feel the same pull toward the contestants this year as I did last year when I definitely had favorites and those I hated. Of course, I’m slowly building up a hatred for Adam.
• Kris is safe
• Matt is safe
• Megan is in the bottom three and does a weird bird call and wing flapping thing on her way to the stools.
• Lil is safe
• Allison is in the bottom three (but I don’t think she’s going home)
• Adam is safe (no big surprise after the judges practically gave him a pass)
• Danny is safe
• Scott is safe
• Anoop is in the bottom three
Bottom Three: Megan, Allison and Anoop
FF through the crazy lady with the make-up and the weird pink piano.
Simon says one of the bottom three would be worth saving, my guess would be Allison.
Allison is safe, so it is now between Anoop and Megan.
Megan is on the bottom and is most definitely going home. I am so glad. Simon says that he’s not even going to pretend to re-evaluate her. Then I FF through Megan’s song.
Is your favorite still in the running?
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
American Idol Top 9
This week’s theme is Most Popular Download. This means that I’ll probably have not heard the majority of these songs because I haven’t listened to “new” music in about two years. I just stick with my favorites from the 70s and 80s.
Anoop - I hated the song (Usher), but I thought he did okay. There were places where I couldn’t understand the words though. Randy didn’t think it was the right song, but the vocals were cool. Kara said it sounded like a bunch of Frat guys dared him to sing Usher. Paula said his vocals sounded really good, but to work on his stage presence. Simon thought it was “a complete and utter mess”.
Megan - Once again, Megan makes all songs sound exactly the same. I’m so over it. The look on Kara’s face said it all… Paula said Megan needed to take them all by surprise. Simon said the song was boring, indulgent, and monotonous. Randy said it was like watching paint dry.
Danny - I think Danny did a good job…as usual. Paula loved it. Simon thought it was Danny’s best performance. Randy loved it. Kara was moved emotionally.
Allison - Plays her guitar for the first time. She sings No Doubt and this is the first song I recognized and I’m not sure that she did much to change the song and make it her own, but I liked it. I don’t think it was her best performance, however. Randy didn’t like her outfit. Kara said she didn’t need to dress “rock” because the rock just comes out of Megan and it was a good performance, but not her best. Paula loved it. Simon didn’t like the outfit either.
Scott - sings Billy Joel, who is one of my favorite singer/song writers. While I think Scott did a really good job and he did make the song his own, I don’t think it sounded very current. I like the song, but I don’t think it could make it on the radio today…not like that. Kara thought it was a smart choice. Paula liked it. Simon thought it was his best performance so far. Randy said it was one of the best performances of the night.
Matt - This was probably the only one of Matt’s performances that I have really enjoyed. I thought this sounded like it was the song/genre for him and I could see him as an artist…finally. Paula didn’t like it because it wasn’t like his other songs in the falsetto. Simon didn’t like it either because it sounded like someone being like someone else. Randy thought it was the wrong song as well. Kara said he needed to commit to either the R&B side of pop or the rock side of pop. – Maybe this is why I finally liked it…because it didn’t sound like his normal style. I just don’t like all the falsetto stuff he’s been doing up to this point.
Lil - I loved the timpani in the background…I always love songs with a timpani. I hated her hair and make-up. I thought she did a good job, but I still don’t think there is anything unique about Lil. Randy liked it, but said she needed to “young it up a little bit”. Kara liked it. Paula said she didn’t want to see an adult/contemporary Lil. Randy thought it was like a wedding performance, which I think he said about one of her other performances. I don't think they liked the song, but didn't want to say so after she mentioned that in the video before her song.
Adam - Let me just start out by saying that I’m not buying into Adam’s whole punk/rock persona. I do not think he is punk or rock. I think it is all an act and I’m not buying into it. He is obviously a drama nerd and he is just using his acting skills. Listen to him when he talks…there’s no way he is punk or rock. He’s all showbiz and Broadway. But I digress… He turned “Play That Funky Music” into a Broadway show tune. Seriously. He just needs to go be in Rent and get it over with. And...I'm tired of the judges falling for his act. Just about anyone on Broadway could pull off the same thing, but that doesn't make them a pop star. Paula was creaming all over herself. I’m not sure she realizes that he is gay. Simon said it was brave and original. Randy loved it. Kara loved it too.
Kris - plays the piano for a change. I found his voice a little less annoying tonight than last week. I thought he did a good job. Randy said it was one of the best of the night. Kara said it was artistry. Paula loved it, and said it was his best to date. Simon said he showed confidence and also agreed that it was Kris’ best performance.
I think Megan should go home tomorrow. What do you think?
Anoop - I hated the song (Usher), but I thought he did okay. There were places where I couldn’t understand the words though. Randy didn’t think it was the right song, but the vocals were cool. Kara said it sounded like a bunch of Frat guys dared him to sing Usher. Paula said his vocals sounded really good, but to work on his stage presence. Simon thought it was “a complete and utter mess”.
Megan - Once again, Megan makes all songs sound exactly the same. I’m so over it. The look on Kara’s face said it all… Paula said Megan needed to take them all by surprise. Simon said the song was boring, indulgent, and monotonous. Randy said it was like watching paint dry.
Danny - I think Danny did a good job…as usual. Paula loved it. Simon thought it was Danny’s best performance. Randy loved it. Kara was moved emotionally.
Allison - Plays her guitar for the first time. She sings No Doubt and this is the first song I recognized and I’m not sure that she did much to change the song and make it her own, but I liked it. I don’t think it was her best performance, however. Randy didn’t like her outfit. Kara said she didn’t need to dress “rock” because the rock just comes out of Megan and it was a good performance, but not her best. Paula loved it. Simon didn’t like the outfit either.
Scott - sings Billy Joel, who is one of my favorite singer/song writers. While I think Scott did a really good job and he did make the song his own, I don’t think it sounded very current. I like the song, but I don’t think it could make it on the radio today…not like that. Kara thought it was a smart choice. Paula liked it. Simon thought it was his best performance so far. Randy said it was one of the best performances of the night.
Matt - This was probably the only one of Matt’s performances that I have really enjoyed. I thought this sounded like it was the song/genre for him and I could see him as an artist…finally. Paula didn’t like it because it wasn’t like his other songs in the falsetto. Simon didn’t like it either because it sounded like someone being like someone else. Randy thought it was the wrong song as well. Kara said he needed to commit to either the R&B side of pop or the rock side of pop. – Maybe this is why I finally liked it…because it didn’t sound like his normal style. I just don’t like all the falsetto stuff he’s been doing up to this point.
Lil - I loved the timpani in the background…I always love songs with a timpani. I hated her hair and make-up. I thought she did a good job, but I still don’t think there is anything unique about Lil. Randy liked it, but said she needed to “young it up a little bit”. Kara liked it. Paula said she didn’t want to see an adult/contemporary Lil. Randy thought it was like a wedding performance, which I think he said about one of her other performances. I don't think they liked the song, but didn't want to say so after she mentioned that in the video before her song.
Adam - Let me just start out by saying that I’m not buying into Adam’s whole punk/rock persona. I do not think he is punk or rock. I think it is all an act and I’m not buying into it. He is obviously a drama nerd and he is just using his acting skills. Listen to him when he talks…there’s no way he is punk or rock. He’s all showbiz and Broadway. But I digress… He turned “Play That Funky Music” into a Broadway show tune. Seriously. He just needs to go be in Rent and get it over with. And...I'm tired of the judges falling for his act. Just about anyone on Broadway could pull off the same thing, but that doesn't make them a pop star. Paula was creaming all over herself. I’m not sure she realizes that he is gay. Simon said it was brave and original. Randy loved it. Kara loved it too.
Kris - plays the piano for a change. I found his voice a little less annoying tonight than last week. I thought he did a good job. Randy said it was one of the best of the night. Kara said it was artistry. Paula loved it, and said it was his best to date. Simon said he showed confidence and also agreed that it was Kris’ best performance.
I think Megan should go home tomorrow. What do you think?
Thursday, March 26, 2009
American Idol Top 10 Results Show
FF through the recap of last night’s show.
I actually watched all of the group song. It was pretty good. I guess at this point in the stage, it should be.
The Ford commercial was okay.
FF through Ruben and his sweaty, bald head.
• Adam is safe (like anyone thought otherwise).
• Matt is in the bottom three (I am surprised at that).
• Kris is safe.
• Lil and Michael stand together…Lil is safe and Michael is in the bottom three (where he belongs).
FF through Smokey
• Allison is safe.
• Anoop is safe.
• Danny is safe (like Adam…not a surprise. Danny’s not surprised either)
• Scott and Megan stand together…Scott’s in the bottom three.
Matt, Michael and Scott
Ryan asks Randy who doesn’t deserve to be standing there and Randy, of course, picks Matt.
Ryan sends Scott back to the couches.
Then there’s a Motown Melody from Stevie Wonder. I love that he looks and sounds the same as he always has…well, he’s lost some hair, but other than that.
Matt’s safe and Michael is going home. There’s no way that the judges will save Michael.
Ryan brings Michael up to the judges after Michael sings his song, and Simon tells Michael that he’s going home.
I actually watched all of the group song. It was pretty good. I guess at this point in the stage, it should be.
The Ford commercial was okay.
FF through Ruben and his sweaty, bald head.
• Adam is safe (like anyone thought otherwise).
• Matt is in the bottom three (I am surprised at that).
• Kris is safe.
• Lil and Michael stand together…Lil is safe and Michael is in the bottom three (where he belongs).
FF through Smokey
• Allison is safe.
• Anoop is safe.
• Danny is safe (like Adam…not a surprise. Danny’s not surprised either)
• Scott and Megan stand together…Scott’s in the bottom three.
Matt, Michael and Scott
Ryan asks Randy who doesn’t deserve to be standing there and Randy, of course, picks Matt.
Ryan sends Scott back to the couches.
Then there’s a Motown Melody from Stevie Wonder. I love that he looks and sounds the same as he always has…well, he’s lost some hair, but other than that.
Matt’s safe and Michael is going home. There’s no way that the judges will save Michael.
Ryan brings Michael up to the judges after Michael sings his song, and Simon tells Michael that he’s going home.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
American Idol Top 10
This is my Reader’s Digest version of American Idol…
Motown Night
Matt - I think he did a pretty good job. Judges loved it.
Kris - Technically good, I didn’t care for the arrangement. Judges loved it, and said he did his version of the song.
Scott - I didn’t think this was Scott’s best performance (although not that bad), and I didn’t like the arrangement. Simon didn’t like the arrangement either. Lots of discussion with mixed review.
Megan - I’ve decided Megan makes all songs sound the same. It was original the first time, maybe even the second, but now her arrangements make all songs sound the same. The judges didn’t like it.
Anoop - Not my favorite Anoop performance. He went slow this time and I like it when he sings faster songs, but he did good. The judges liked it.
Michael - I still think he is mediocre. The judges didn’t like it.
Lil - This should be Lil’s best night. She does a good job, not sure she changed the song at all though. Randy didn’t think it was the right song. Kara said she stayed too true to the original. Paula loved it. Simon likes her singing, didn’t like the song choice.
Adam - 50’s Adam sings a slow, soulful song. It’s different from what we’ve heard before. It’s good, but I don’t really like his voice. Judges absolutely loved it.
Danny - Another good job, not his best. Mixed review from the judges. Simon thought it wasn’t as good as it has been.
Allison - Loved it. The judges loved it.
I think Michael should go home and will probably be in the bottom again this week. I think Megan, Lil and Scott all could possibly in the bottom. I think either Michael or Megan will go home.
Motown Night
Matt - I think he did a pretty good job. Judges loved it.
Kris - Technically good, I didn’t care for the arrangement. Judges loved it, and said he did his version of the song.
Scott - I didn’t think this was Scott’s best performance (although not that bad), and I didn’t like the arrangement. Simon didn’t like the arrangement either. Lots of discussion with mixed review.
Megan - I’ve decided Megan makes all songs sound the same. It was original the first time, maybe even the second, but now her arrangements make all songs sound the same. The judges didn’t like it.
Anoop - Not my favorite Anoop performance. He went slow this time and I like it when he sings faster songs, but he did good. The judges liked it.
Michael - I still think he is mediocre. The judges didn’t like it.
Lil - This should be Lil’s best night. She does a good job, not sure she changed the song at all though. Randy didn’t think it was the right song. Kara said she stayed too true to the original. Paula loved it. Simon likes her singing, didn’t like the song choice.
Adam - 50’s Adam sings a slow, soulful song. It’s different from what we’ve heard before. It’s good, but I don’t really like his voice. Judges absolutely loved it.
Danny - Another good job, not his best. Mixed review from the judges. Simon thought it wasn’t as good as it has been.
Allison - Loved it. The judges loved it.
I think Michael should go home and will probably be in the bottom again this week. I think Megan, Lil and Scott all could possibly in the bottom. I think either Michael or Megan will go home.
AI FYI
Just as an FYI... I probably will not be posting an American Idol recap tonight due to our illustrious President's take over of prime time television. I won't be home until after 8pm tonight and I'm pretty sure I won't want to take the time to blog while watching AI tonight. It actually takes me longer to watch AI if I'm doing a re-cap, and I am tied to my computer, which means that I can't get anything else done around the house for more than 2 hours. So thank you Mr. President.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
American Idol Top 11 Results Show
I didn’t fast forward through this episode like I normally do because I was also working on Photoshoping pictures for a brochure, so I used the down-time to work on the pictures.
I was interested to see how the choreography would work around Scott this week. That’s one of my favorite new pass times. This week they sang “T.R.O.U.B.L.E.” and Scott played the piano. This was a terrible song to choose to do because it is a solo song, not a group song and sounded terrible as a group song.
The Ford commercial was cute, but since they were running around throwing water balloons at each other, Scott didn’t get much face time. I’m sure it is sometimes hard to figure out where to place him so that he doesn’t need to run around like the rest of the group.
Danny’s safe (big surprise *sarcasm*), Lil is safe (not sure why…she was the worst of the whole bunch, so she must have some fans), Anoop is safe (Yay!), Allison and Michael stand together, so you know one of them is in the bottom three. Allison is told she’s in the bottom three. (I can’t believe this. She was one of the best from last night’s performances.) Michael is also in the bottom three. (This I’m okay with because he should be in the bottom. I am, however, surprised that his “good ‘ol boy” status didn’t keep him out of the bottom three.)
FF through Brad Paisley’s country ballad.
Scott is safe (I’m glad, he’s so sweet and I would love to see him a few more weeks), Megan is also safe (and she should be after last night’s performance…while sick), Matt is safe (no surprise). Kris gets through with no problems. Alexis and Adam go up against each other. I’d be surprised if it isn’t Alexis in the bottom. And…Alexis is in the bottom three.
One goes immediately back to the couches…Allison is safe. Which is as it should be. She shouldn’t have been in the bottom three to begin with. I’m okay with the other two, but think Alexis is better than her performance last night and out of the two, is the one I think deserves another chance. Having said that, I bet Alexis is about to give her final performance.
FF through the majority of the Carey Underwood and Randy Travis duet.
Before going to commercial break, Ryan asks Simon if they would consider using their one save on either one of the contestants and Simon said they’d already discussed it and depending on who is chosen to go home, they would consider using the save.
Michael is safe and Alexis is chosen to go home. Now my guess is that Alexis is the one they would chose to save, but I’m not sure…let’s see.
Simon said that Alexis was the one they were thinking about saving, and that it all came down to her performance. During Alexis’ performance, they show the judges huddled up discussing whether or not they are going to save her. Remember, they only get one save all season. I’m not sure that Alexis doesn’t over do it, trying to prove that she deserves to be kept in the competition.
He said they were unanimous on their decision. The song was good, but not good enough and they decide to not use their save on Alexis. I wouldn’t have used it either. Michael should have gone home before her, but she wasn’t good enough to save.
Next week AI will be on Wednesday and Thursday due to the President’s speech on Tuesday.
Is your favorite contestant still in the running?
I was interested to see how the choreography would work around Scott this week. That’s one of my favorite new pass times. This week they sang “T.R.O.U.B.L.E.” and Scott played the piano. This was a terrible song to choose to do because it is a solo song, not a group song and sounded terrible as a group song.
The Ford commercial was cute, but since they were running around throwing water balloons at each other, Scott didn’t get much face time. I’m sure it is sometimes hard to figure out where to place him so that he doesn’t need to run around like the rest of the group.
Danny’s safe (big surprise *sarcasm*), Lil is safe (not sure why…she was the worst of the whole bunch, so she must have some fans), Anoop is safe (Yay!), Allison and Michael stand together, so you know one of them is in the bottom three. Allison is told she’s in the bottom three. (I can’t believe this. She was one of the best from last night’s performances.) Michael is also in the bottom three. (This I’m okay with because he should be in the bottom. I am, however, surprised that his “good ‘ol boy” status didn’t keep him out of the bottom three.)
FF through Brad Paisley’s country ballad.
Scott is safe (I’m glad, he’s so sweet and I would love to see him a few more weeks), Megan is also safe (and she should be after last night’s performance…while sick), Matt is safe (no surprise). Kris gets through with no problems. Alexis and Adam go up against each other. I’d be surprised if it isn’t Alexis in the bottom. And…Alexis is in the bottom three.
One goes immediately back to the couches…Allison is safe. Which is as it should be. She shouldn’t have been in the bottom three to begin with. I’m okay with the other two, but think Alexis is better than her performance last night and out of the two, is the one I think deserves another chance. Having said that, I bet Alexis is about to give her final performance.
FF through the majority of the Carey Underwood and Randy Travis duet.
Before going to commercial break, Ryan asks Simon if they would consider using their one save on either one of the contestants and Simon said they’d already discussed it and depending on who is chosen to go home, they would consider using the save.
Michael is safe and Alexis is chosen to go home. Now my guess is that Alexis is the one they would chose to save, but I’m not sure…let’s see.
Simon said that Alexis was the one they were thinking about saving, and that it all came down to her performance. During Alexis’ performance, they show the judges huddled up discussing whether or not they are going to save her. Remember, they only get one save all season. I’m not sure that Alexis doesn’t over do it, trying to prove that she deserves to be kept in the competition.
He said they were unanimous on their decision. The song was good, but not good enough and they decide to not use their save on Alexis. I wouldn’t have used it either. Michael should have gone home before her, but she wasn’t good enough to save.
Next week AI will be on Wednesday and Thursday due to the President’s speech on Tuesday.
Is your favorite contestant still in the running?
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
American Idol Top 11
This is country week. Yee-Haw! Randy Travis came to help the idols out this week.
Despite that, this is a big week because whomever is left after this week gets to go on the Idol summer tour.
Michael sings “Aint Going Down Til The Sun Comes Up” This is not the easiest song to sing because of all the words and how fast they have to be sung (spoken really). And there’s the problem…much of the song is spoken instead of sung. Also, there were definitely times when I was afraid he was going to run out of air before getting all the words out. I still believe Michael is an average singer. However, he’ll probably continue to advance due to his “good ‘ol boy” popularity. Randy thought it was a cool song choice, but didn’t show anything new vocally. Kara said they got to see his personality, but missed the big notes. Paula thought it was fun and country suits him. Simon said it should have been good, but he couldn’t understand a word Michael was saying. He said it was a bit clumsy and karaoke.
Allison sings “Blame It On Your Heart” Her voice is just as suited to country music as it is rock. I thought she did a great job with this song both vocally and with making it her own. I still can’t believe she’s only 16! She is quickly becoming one of my favorites. Kara said Allison could sing the alphabet and that she made the song her own. Paula said it was another rock-solid performance. Simon thought it was good, but it was a little tuneless in parts. Randy said it was “dope”.
Kris also sings Garth Brooks…without the guitar. I really think he should stay behind the guitar, it gives him the personality he lacks without it. I’m still not buying into the hype surrounding Kris. He’s okay, but not as good as the hype. I think his voice is a little annoying…maybe because it’s slightly nasally at times and a little boyish. He stays on key most of the time and hits most of the notes though. Paula said he needed to watch the low notes. Simon said it was terrific and the first time he’s actually thought Kris had a shot in this competition. Randy liked the “tender moments”. Kara said it wasn’t even country…it was beautiful. I can’t believe Paula was the hardest on him.
Lil sings “Independence Day” Although I’m not a country fan, I did listen to it a million years ago and this is one of my all time favorites. I wondered how she’d get the whole story in and she managed more of it by leaving out the chorus at least once. Lil did an good job with the notes, I just didn’t buy her as the narrator of this story. Randy said the song didn’t feel comfortable on her to him. Kara also thought there were better songs Lil could have chosen. Paula liked her vocals, hair and make-up, and thought Lil should have done one verse and gone strait to the chorus so Lil could show off her vocals. Simon’s having problems with her name and kept calling her “Little”, which was pretty funny. He felt like she looked like someone forced to sing a song someone requested at a wedding and looked uncomfortable singing it (I think he’s spot-on by the way).
Adam sings a sitar version of “Ring of Fire” (and Johnny Cash was rolling in his grave). Randy Travis struggled to say something nice about Adam; it was amusing. I wasn’t into this arrangement. I would say that Adam made the song his own, but he admitted he heard this from someone else. I’m sure, however, that he will get props for making the song his own. Kara said it was “interesting” and “strange”, but she kind of liked it. She said the song left her confused and kind of happy. Paula said he’s true to who he is as an artist (and then she kissed his butt with a lot of other stuff). Simon said, “I think what Randy [Travis] was saying was…'What the hell was that?'” Then Simon said it was indulgent rubbish. (I’m so glad Simon feels this way.) Randy said it was current and like Nine Inch Nails singing a country song (as if I would want to hear that).
Scott sings “Wild Angels” and plays the piano. I think he did a good job; there were a few notes that were a little shaky, but not necessarily off key. I still think Scott will get into the top 5, no problem, but probably won’t win the whole thing. Paula said it was impressive and lovely, but the piano might be a bit of a crutch that separates him from the audience. Simon thought what Paula said was stupid (and then there was a whole argument with Paula) and that Elton John always sits behind the piano. Simon still thinks that Scott’s not picking the best songs. Randy said he’s still looking for the “hott, crazy, unbelievable” vocals. Kara said that they just want him to “up his game”.
Alexis chose “Jolene” by Dolly Parton. I didn’t like how she tried to change the song by shortening the last “Jolene” at the beginning of the song…it just sounded odd because it was so different from original, but there wasn’t much else that different from the original version. Overall, I think it was good, but not great. There were a few missed notes and it wasn’t a stellar performance. I still like Alexis, but this was not one of her best performances. Randy said there were pitch problems and it wasn’t a great performance. Kara said Alexis lost some of her edge. Paula thought it might have been a good choice because Alexis showed a different side of herself. Simon thought it was okay, but a little bit sound-alike and forgettable.
Danny sings Carey Underwood’s “Jesus Take The Wheel”. I really don’t like it when Idol contestants sing past Idolist’s songs. It feels like they are trying to get brownie points... but that’s probably just me. Danny does a great job as usual. I wasn’t sure at first, but then he hit the big notes that are in the chorus…no problem. Kara said the first half was not spectacular, but the second half was great. Paula disagreed because she loves when artists build a story and thought he was brilliant. Simon agreed with Paula because he thought the song should have some light and shade. Randy agreed with Kara and said he needed to support the verses better because they were a little pitchy.
Anoop sings “You’re Always On My Mind”. This is why I love Anoop. To me, it’s not just his singing, but his stage presence and connection with the audience. I think he made this a modern song again. This could be a top 20 hit on the pop charts right now. Paula said the song “fit him like a glove” and that he had tender, honest, amazing vocals. Simon said Anoop managed to go from Zero to Hero and said it was a good song choice and one of his favorite performances of the night. He took back the remark from last week and said Anoop definitely deserves to be here. Randy loved the arrangement. Kara said it was almost an untouchable song and hard to do what Anoop did and it was probably the best performance of the night.
Megan sings “I Go Walking After Midnight”. She takes the song and twists it around and makes it sound like something from Etta James. Although it wasn’t necessarily my type of music, I could definitely appreciate what she did with the song, and I think she did a good job. I would have said great job, but she missed a couple of notes. Randy thought it was going to be a train wreck, but he was impressed. Kara said it was the perfect song, and the perfect look. (Apparently Megan had the flu and had even been to the hospital. If that’s the case then I take back any mention of wrong notes because I’m sure it was due to the coughing, sore throat, etc.) Paula said she was fantastic. Simon said she should have the flu every week. Poor Megan coughed through the entire judging.
Matt sings Carey Underwood’s “So Small” (great… more ex-Idol) while playing the piano. He does an okay job. Not my favorite performance. Nothing spectacular in my opinion, but a solid job nonetheless. Kara loved it. Paul said he was “piercing through so many peoples hearts.” Simon said that Matt out-sang Danny tonight and that Matt reminds him of Michael Bublé. Randy said it was his favorite performance of the night.
I think Lil is in trouble, and will probably be the one going home tomorrow night. I also believe Michael should be in the bottom, but probably won’t be. Alexis might find herself in the bottom tomorrow night, but I don’t think she’ll go home.
Who do you think is going home?
Despite that, this is a big week because whomever is left after this week gets to go on the Idol summer tour.
Michael sings “Aint Going Down Til The Sun Comes Up” This is not the easiest song to sing because of all the words and how fast they have to be sung (spoken really). And there’s the problem…much of the song is spoken instead of sung. Also, there were definitely times when I was afraid he was going to run out of air before getting all the words out. I still believe Michael is an average singer. However, he’ll probably continue to advance due to his “good ‘ol boy” popularity. Randy thought it was a cool song choice, but didn’t show anything new vocally. Kara said they got to see his personality, but missed the big notes. Paula thought it was fun and country suits him. Simon said it should have been good, but he couldn’t understand a word Michael was saying. He said it was a bit clumsy and karaoke.
Allison sings “Blame It On Your Heart” Her voice is just as suited to country music as it is rock. I thought she did a great job with this song both vocally and with making it her own. I still can’t believe she’s only 16! She is quickly becoming one of my favorites. Kara said Allison could sing the alphabet and that she made the song her own. Paula said it was another rock-solid performance. Simon thought it was good, but it was a little tuneless in parts. Randy said it was “dope”.
Kris also sings Garth Brooks…without the guitar. I really think he should stay behind the guitar, it gives him the personality he lacks without it. I’m still not buying into the hype surrounding Kris. He’s okay, but not as good as the hype. I think his voice is a little annoying…maybe because it’s slightly nasally at times and a little boyish. He stays on key most of the time and hits most of the notes though. Paula said he needed to watch the low notes. Simon said it was terrific and the first time he’s actually thought Kris had a shot in this competition. Randy liked the “tender moments”. Kara said it wasn’t even country…it was beautiful. I can’t believe Paula was the hardest on him.
Lil sings “Independence Day” Although I’m not a country fan, I did listen to it a million years ago and this is one of my all time favorites. I wondered how she’d get the whole story in and she managed more of it by leaving out the chorus at least once. Lil did an good job with the notes, I just didn’t buy her as the narrator of this story. Randy said the song didn’t feel comfortable on her to him. Kara also thought there were better songs Lil could have chosen. Paula liked her vocals, hair and make-up, and thought Lil should have done one verse and gone strait to the chorus so Lil could show off her vocals. Simon’s having problems with her name and kept calling her “Little”, which was pretty funny. He felt like she looked like someone forced to sing a song someone requested at a wedding and looked uncomfortable singing it (I think he’s spot-on by the way).
Adam sings a sitar version of “Ring of Fire” (and Johnny Cash was rolling in his grave). Randy Travis struggled to say something nice about Adam; it was amusing. I wasn’t into this arrangement. I would say that Adam made the song his own, but he admitted he heard this from someone else. I’m sure, however, that he will get props for making the song his own. Kara said it was “interesting” and “strange”, but she kind of liked it. She said the song left her confused and kind of happy. Paula said he’s true to who he is as an artist (and then she kissed his butt with a lot of other stuff). Simon said, “I think what Randy [Travis] was saying was…'What the hell was that?'” Then Simon said it was indulgent rubbish. (I’m so glad Simon feels this way.) Randy said it was current and like Nine Inch Nails singing a country song (as if I would want to hear that).
Scott sings “Wild Angels” and plays the piano. I think he did a good job; there were a few notes that were a little shaky, but not necessarily off key. I still think Scott will get into the top 5, no problem, but probably won’t win the whole thing. Paula said it was impressive and lovely, but the piano might be a bit of a crutch that separates him from the audience. Simon thought what Paula said was stupid (and then there was a whole argument with Paula) and that Elton John always sits behind the piano. Simon still thinks that Scott’s not picking the best songs. Randy said he’s still looking for the “hott, crazy, unbelievable” vocals. Kara said that they just want him to “up his game”.
Alexis chose “Jolene” by Dolly Parton. I didn’t like how she tried to change the song by shortening the last “Jolene” at the beginning of the song…it just sounded odd because it was so different from original, but there wasn’t much else that different from the original version. Overall, I think it was good, but not great. There were a few missed notes and it wasn’t a stellar performance. I still like Alexis, but this was not one of her best performances. Randy said there were pitch problems and it wasn’t a great performance. Kara said Alexis lost some of her edge. Paula thought it might have been a good choice because Alexis showed a different side of herself. Simon thought it was okay, but a little bit sound-alike and forgettable.
Danny sings Carey Underwood’s “Jesus Take The Wheel”. I really don’t like it when Idol contestants sing past Idolist’s songs. It feels like they are trying to get brownie points... but that’s probably just me. Danny does a great job as usual. I wasn’t sure at first, but then he hit the big notes that are in the chorus…no problem. Kara said the first half was not spectacular, but the second half was great. Paula disagreed because she loves when artists build a story and thought he was brilliant. Simon agreed with Paula because he thought the song should have some light and shade. Randy agreed with Kara and said he needed to support the verses better because they were a little pitchy.
Anoop sings “You’re Always On My Mind”. This is why I love Anoop. To me, it’s not just his singing, but his stage presence and connection with the audience. I think he made this a modern song again. This could be a top 20 hit on the pop charts right now. Paula said the song “fit him like a glove” and that he had tender, honest, amazing vocals. Simon said Anoop managed to go from Zero to Hero and said it was a good song choice and one of his favorite performances of the night. He took back the remark from last week and said Anoop definitely deserves to be here. Randy loved the arrangement. Kara said it was almost an untouchable song and hard to do what Anoop did and it was probably the best performance of the night.
Megan sings “I Go Walking After Midnight”. She takes the song and twists it around and makes it sound like something from Etta James. Although it wasn’t necessarily my type of music, I could definitely appreciate what she did with the song, and I think she did a good job. I would have said great job, but she missed a couple of notes. Randy thought it was going to be a train wreck, but he was impressed. Kara said it was the perfect song, and the perfect look. (Apparently Megan had the flu and had even been to the hospital. If that’s the case then I take back any mention of wrong notes because I’m sure it was due to the coughing, sore throat, etc.) Paula said she was fantastic. Simon said she should have the flu every week. Poor Megan coughed through the entire judging.
Matt sings Carey Underwood’s “So Small” (great… more ex-Idol) while playing the piano. He does an okay job. Not my favorite performance. Nothing spectacular in my opinion, but a solid job nonetheless. Kara loved it. Paul said he was “piercing through so many peoples hearts.” Simon said that Matt out-sang Danny tonight and that Matt reminds him of Michael Bublé. Randy said it was his favorite performance of the night.
I think Lil is in trouble, and will probably be the one going home tomorrow night. I also believe Michael should be in the bottom, but probably won’t be. Alexis might find herself in the bottom tomorrow night, but I don’t think she’ll go home.
Who do you think is going home?
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