The theme this week is "most popular downloads on iTunes." My initial reaction was uh-oh. This is going to be a disaster. Your favorite artists are not always the ones you should be singing.
Anoop — "Caught Up" by Usher
See? Anoop is a much better vocalist than required of this song. It did not showcase his talent enough. It's a fun song, but not right for this competition. Simon called is a "complete and utter mess" and said it was a "wannabe" performance.
Megan — “Turn Your Lights Down Low” by Bob Marley
I wasn't crazy about this one. I'm thinking Megan's time on this show may be up. [She didn't shimmy this week!] Simon said that "all the things we liked about you are disappearing." Randy said, "You can love a song, but that doesn't mean you're going to sing it well."
Simon's word of the season is "indulgent." His overuse of that word is annoying...so is the crowd. Seriously, shut up and let them talk. Some guy shouted "broken record" when Kara was talking about picking the right song. Moron.
Danny — “What Hurts the Most” by Rascall Flatts
All I could think during this performance was "wow." Danny was absolutely captivating tonight. His powerful voice swept me away during the chorus. I hated the end note. Why do they always try to finish without resolve? But other than that minute thing, I loved this performance. Paula said that this is where Danny thrives. Simon said it was Danny's best performance of the season and actually started a round of applause.
Allison — “Don’t Speak” by No Doubt
Allison busted out her guitar this week. I love seeing the contestants other talents. Her hair was awful. As for the performance, she had some nice melodic riffs, but I would like to hear her annunciate more. It was a good performance, but not amazing. Randy said, "What are you wearing?!" Of course the judges spent more time debating her outfit than her performance. Paula thinks Allison is "skating by and going right to the finish line." I disagree. I think she's got a lot of work to do if she wants to keep up with the guys.
Scott — “Just the Way You Are” by Billy Joel
So I know the judges raved about this one, but I was annoyed by the second note. Scott has no volume control and such a weird tone; I'm just not a fan. Paula said that of all the contestants ever, she is most proud of Scott, and "it had nothing to do with your challenge, but everything to do with making me forget about your challenge." blah, blah, blah. Simon said it was Scott's best performance.
Matt — “You Found Me” by The Fray
As soon as Matt said what song he was singing, I got really excited. I love The Fray, and I had high expectations for Matt with this song. I liked it, not as much as last week, but it was still a good performance. I loved the arrangement, with the bold verse into the tender chorus with another build. I wish Matt had stuck to the tender moments more. He was definitely trying to sound too much like Isaac (original artist--lead singer of The Fray) when he would have been incredible just as Matt. His falsetto riff toward the end was brilliant. The judges weren't so keen on this one. Randy suggested One Republic instead. Kara wants to know whether Matt is going to the Rock genre or R&B. Why does he have to choose?
Lil — “I Surrender” by Celine Dion
Finally, Lil picked a diva song. I hated her hair and dress...neither were flattering. I thought it was nice to hear Lil's powerful vocals; it was my favorite performance of her's. Paula is so annoying. Does anyone ever know what she's talking about? Simon said Lil reminded him of a wedding singer and called her performance "safe and old fashioned." Ryan talked to Lil's daughters and one of the gave Randy a hug because he was "tough on Mommy." Lil started to cry a little bit. It was adorable.
Adam — “Play That Funky Music” by Wild Cherry
I thought the arrangement was really cool and Adam's performance was fun. I really liked this one. As always, Adam showed off his sick vocals. I couldn't stop smiling. Paula, stop trying to be deep. Simon called it "brave and original." Kara said, "every week I can't wait to see what you're going to do next." I think America agrees.
Kris — “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers
Hold up. Kris plays piano too?! I love him. He has such a beautiful tone. Tonight was incredible. The arrangement was great, and Kris made an old song contemporary. I loved the breakdown in the bridge. I also loved that Kris brought diversity to this performance; he had tender moments and soulful strong moments. Randy called it "creative and cool." Kara said, "I have three words: That is artistry!" (Hey, she learned to count!) Paula said that Kris is "pacing the competition to play to his strengths." Simon said that Kris has gained his confidence and that was his best performance. I couldn't agree more. Kris was the unknown--the dark horse--and he's taking this competition by storm.
My favorites of the night--Danny, Adam, and Kris
My predictions--Megan, Anoop, and Lil are in trouble. I would like Lil to go, but I think Megan's going home tomorrow night. I just feel like Lil doesn't realize that this is a competition. While I liked her performance tonight, she's just making all the wrong decisions and she's completely forgetable.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Week 3 Results
In Ryan's conversation with the judges at the beginning, he told Paula and Simon to "get a room." Simon responded, "we did." bahaha. gross. Wouldn't surprise me with the way those two behave this season.
The Top 10 sang a medley of Motown hits. Allison, Lil, Matt, and Adam were the best highlighted soloists. I like that Adam was able to bring his style into the improv behind "Ain't No Mountain High Enough." They put 3-4 microphones on stage and arranged the girls up front and guys behind instead of giving them individual mics because the guys would totally overpower the girls.
Ruben Studdard returned to sing something. ("We Should Stay Together?") If anyone cares. I don't understand why anyone would compete on American Idol if they were just going to reject the fame. It was a good song, but Ruben looked like he just ran a marathon afterwards. He was so sweaty...gross.
Now to results.
Safe--Adam, Kris, and Lil
Matt is in the bottom 3. WHAT?!?!?! No way.
Michael is also in the bottom 3.
Joss Stone and Smokey Robinson sang a duet. I was bored. Whatever. I'm still mad about Matt being in the bottom.
Back to results.
Safe--Allison, Anoop, Danny, and Megan
Scott joins Michael and Matt in the bottom 3.
Scott is now safe, leaving Michael and Matt alone again.
Stevie Wonder performed a medley. The contestants look so psyched to see a living legend. Pretty cool. Stevie shouted "I love you Barak Obama!" and "I love you American Idol" in the middle of one of his songs. haha
Why do they keep talking about the big shock of Alexis being voted off? I wasn't all that surprised.
MATT IS SAFE!
Michael is going home. He should have taken some of those runs out of his second performance if he really wanted the judges to save him. I didn't feel like he was screaming at me this time though. His performance was much better this time. Time was running out and the judges were frantically trying to make a decision, which was actually really amusing. In the end, Simon made a decision and sent Michael home.
So, Top 9--Matt, Adam, Kris, Lil, Anoop, Danny, Megan, Allison, and Scott.
The Top 10 sang a medley of Motown hits. Allison, Lil, Matt, and Adam were the best highlighted soloists. I like that Adam was able to bring his style into the improv behind "Ain't No Mountain High Enough." They put 3-4 microphones on stage and arranged the girls up front and guys behind instead of giving them individual mics because the guys would totally overpower the girls.
Ruben Studdard returned to sing something. ("We Should Stay Together?") If anyone cares. I don't understand why anyone would compete on American Idol if they were just going to reject the fame. It was a good song, but Ruben looked like he just ran a marathon afterwards. He was so sweaty...gross.
Now to results.
Safe--Adam, Kris, and Lil
Matt is in the bottom 3. WHAT?!?!?! No way.
Michael is also in the bottom 3.
Joss Stone and Smokey Robinson sang a duet. I was bored. Whatever. I'm still mad about Matt being in the bottom.
Back to results.
Safe--Allison, Anoop, Danny, and Megan
Scott joins Michael and Matt in the bottom 3.
Scott is now safe, leaving Michael and Matt alone again.
Stevie Wonder performed a medley. The contestants look so psyched to see a living legend. Pretty cool. Stevie shouted "I love you Barak Obama!" and "I love you American Idol" in the middle of one of his songs. haha
Why do they keep talking about the big shock of Alexis being voted off? I wasn't all that surprised.
MATT IS SAFE!
Michael is going home. He should have taken some of those runs out of his second performance if he really wanted the judges to save him. I didn't feel like he was screaming at me this time though. His performance was much better this time. Time was running out and the judges were frantically trying to make a decision, which was actually really amusing. In the end, Simon made a decision and sent Michael home.
So, Top 9--Matt, Adam, Kris, Lil, Anoop, Danny, Megan, Allison, and Scott.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Week 3
The theme this week is Motown, with Smokey Robinson as the mentor.
I loved the clip of the contestants singing “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” in the beginning.
Matt Giraud—“Let’s Get It On” by Marvin Gaye
As always, Matt was incredible on the piano. He had beautiful switches into his falsetto that reminded me of Justin Timberlake. Kara said that Matt came out of his shell tonight when he stepped out from behind the piano. Paula commented on how comfortable he was in both scenarios. Simon said it was a "brilliant song choice," and I agree. One of my favorites of the night.
Kris Allen—“How Sweet It Is” by Marvin Gaye
Kris was back to his guitar and his dancing feet tonight. He's just so cute. He's quickly closing in on Danny as my favorite competitor. The beginning was awesome with the a cappella start and the build-up to the quicker pace. Kris surprised me with that powerful last note. I was expecting him to go into his falsetto with a tender ending, but what he did was even better. Kara said that Kris "did everything right." Oh, and did y'all catch his cute little hand sign at the end when he turned the vote for #2 into a rock-on sign?
Scott McIntyre—“You Can’t Hurry Love” by Diana Ross
I hate to admit that I chuckled when Ryan said "good to see you," and Scott responded, "you too." Anyone else? No? I'm terrible, I know. As for Scott's performance, I hated the slow start. It also sounded to me like he was dragging behind the tempo a little bit. The ending got better, but it was just an okay performance. Scott's style is just not my cup of tea. Kara said he "brought tempo" this week by changing from a slow ballad to an upbeat song, but Scott just didn't deliver once again.
Sidenote: The judges are super annoying this season. Kara gives the best advice...no wonder they brought her on the show. Tell the others to shut up…especially Paula and Simon. Paula gave Simon crayons and a coloring book for acting like a child. Also, I know you all caught this little piece of dialogue between Ryan and Scott tonight.
Scott--“Vote for the flesh colored pink pants.”
Ryan--“How do you know they’re pink?”
Scott--“They told me 10 minutes before the show.”
Back to the performances...
Megan Joy Corkrey—“For Once in My Life” by Stevie Wonder
Smokey finally came up with a word to describe Megan: cabaret. She totally is! But not in the bad way that Simon has used to describe previous contestants. Megan's performance tonight was the first of hers that didn't make me smile or jump up and down. She got off to a rough start and it just didn't get much better from there. (On a positive note, she did look fabulous. I loved that necklace!) Randy said it sounded rushed and that she needs more time for her vibrato. Kara said that Megan should have sung "My Guy," and I completely agree. That would have been way more suitable for her. Simon said that Megan may be in trouble after that performance. True, but sad. I still love her unique and quirky sound.
Anoop Desai--“Ooh Baby Baby” by The Miracles
This was a great vocal performance. Anoop has such a beautiful tone, and his transitions from chest to falsetto were practically flawless. However, I had to agree with Simon when he said that Anoop "looked half asleep." He definitely needs to work on stagemanship. This performance belonged in a musical, not a live national competition. Ryan sang Anoop's numbers before the commercial...never again, Ryan.
Michael Sarver—“Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” by The Temptations
Michael delivered a nice vocal with a soulful tone as usual. I disagree with the judges. I thought he made a good song choice for his voice, but he just didn't execute it as well as he should have. Smokey gave him good advice by telling him to belt, but it probably would have been better if he didn't try. His vocals got a little obnoxious halfway through the song and it only went downhill from there. The ending was absolutely terrible. Why did Paula look like she was about to cry when she was giving Michael her critique? And did you see Michael's eyes narrow when Simon said he had no chance of winning with that type of vocal? Watch out, Simon! Again, Kara gives the best critiques. Props to the new judge!
Lil Rounds—“Heat Wave”
It was a good performance, but like Michael's, Lil got a little annoying. She was practically screaming the whole time. I would have liked to see a little more contrast in her vocals. Kara said that Lil was the "diva we were all waiting to see...this was your week" and if Lil couldn't nail this week, then could she nail the rest? Randy forgot his education and said "Hey Lil, how you be?" Wow.
Adam Lambert—“Tracks of My Tears” by Smokey Robinson
First of all, the hair. Adam, this is not Elvis week, but thank you for trying a softer image. Another major thank you for showing us another side of you! Finally! I loved the tenderness, the acoustic instruments on stage, and Adam's pure vocal. (He's a better soprano than any of the girls this season!) I loved this performance. The ending was great without a resolve. Adam really portrayed his versatility tonight. Kara said "I have six words for you, Adam: One of the best performances of the night!" Uh, Kara? That was eight words. Simon said he disagreed with Kara because that "was the BEST performance of the night." I agree. Adam won me over tonight.
Danny Gokey—“Get Ready” by The Temptations
Danny was looking good tonight. Wardrobe did well. I thought that Motown suits him really well, but I hated his stupid dancing with the backup singers. Danny reminds me of David Cook with his scruffy voice, but also in that I don't ever expect him to hit those high notes, but he always does effortlessly. David Cook did that as well. The judges didn't have much to say on this one. The show was running late. It was a good vocal. Nothing spectacular or different.
Allison Iraheta—“Papa Was a Rolling Stone” by The Temptations
This girl has got some pipes! It was a great performance, and that last run at the end was sick. Randy said Allison's performance was "blazing hot!" Kara said, "you sing like you've been singing for 400 years. That is from God. You can't teach that!" I hope the voters put her through a couple more rounds. I think she's got more to show.
Then Simon drew a mustache on Paula's face. What the heck? Seriously, those two are so annoying this season. A little more professionality please.
My favorites of the night were Matt, Kris, Adam, and Allison.
Predictions: Michael, Megan, and Scott may be in trouble. I think Lil still has a big fan base, but her time on the show may be ending if she doesn't blow the roof off next week. I hope Megan isn't voted off yet. I wish Scott would leave. Michael most likely will be the one voted off tomorrow.
I loved the clip of the contestants singing “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” in the beginning.
Matt Giraud—“Let’s Get It On” by Marvin Gaye
As always, Matt was incredible on the piano. He had beautiful switches into his falsetto that reminded me of Justin Timberlake. Kara said that Matt came out of his shell tonight when he stepped out from behind the piano. Paula commented on how comfortable he was in both scenarios. Simon said it was a "brilliant song choice," and I agree. One of my favorites of the night.
Kris Allen—“How Sweet It Is” by Marvin Gaye
Kris was back to his guitar and his dancing feet tonight. He's just so cute. He's quickly closing in on Danny as my favorite competitor. The beginning was awesome with the a cappella start and the build-up to the quicker pace. Kris surprised me with that powerful last note. I was expecting him to go into his falsetto with a tender ending, but what he did was even better. Kara said that Kris "did everything right." Oh, and did y'all catch his cute little hand sign at the end when he turned the vote for #2 into a rock-on sign?
Scott McIntyre—“You Can’t Hurry Love” by Diana Ross
I hate to admit that I chuckled when Ryan said "good to see you," and Scott responded, "you too." Anyone else? No? I'm terrible, I know. As for Scott's performance, I hated the slow start. It also sounded to me like he was dragging behind the tempo a little bit. The ending got better, but it was just an okay performance. Scott's style is just not my cup of tea. Kara said he "brought tempo" this week by changing from a slow ballad to an upbeat song, but Scott just didn't deliver once again.
Sidenote: The judges are super annoying this season. Kara gives the best advice...no wonder they brought her on the show. Tell the others to shut up…especially Paula and Simon. Paula gave Simon crayons and a coloring book for acting like a child. Also, I know you all caught this little piece of dialogue between Ryan and Scott tonight.
Scott--“Vote for the flesh colored pink pants.”
Ryan--“How do you know they’re pink?”
Scott--“They told me 10 minutes before the show.”
Back to the performances...
Megan Joy Corkrey—“For Once in My Life” by Stevie Wonder
Smokey finally came up with a word to describe Megan: cabaret. She totally is! But not in the bad way that Simon has used to describe previous contestants. Megan's performance tonight was the first of hers that didn't make me smile or jump up and down. She got off to a rough start and it just didn't get much better from there. (On a positive note, she did look fabulous. I loved that necklace!) Randy said it sounded rushed and that she needs more time for her vibrato. Kara said that Megan should have sung "My Guy," and I completely agree. That would have been way more suitable for her. Simon said that Megan may be in trouble after that performance. True, but sad. I still love her unique and quirky sound.
Anoop Desai--“Ooh Baby Baby” by The Miracles
This was a great vocal performance. Anoop has such a beautiful tone, and his transitions from chest to falsetto were practically flawless. However, I had to agree with Simon when he said that Anoop "looked half asleep." He definitely needs to work on stagemanship. This performance belonged in a musical, not a live national competition. Ryan sang Anoop's numbers before the commercial...never again, Ryan.
Michael Sarver—“Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” by The Temptations
Michael delivered a nice vocal with a soulful tone as usual. I disagree with the judges. I thought he made a good song choice for his voice, but he just didn't execute it as well as he should have. Smokey gave him good advice by telling him to belt, but it probably would have been better if he didn't try. His vocals got a little obnoxious halfway through the song and it only went downhill from there. The ending was absolutely terrible. Why did Paula look like she was about to cry when she was giving Michael her critique? And did you see Michael's eyes narrow when Simon said he had no chance of winning with that type of vocal? Watch out, Simon! Again, Kara gives the best critiques. Props to the new judge!
Lil Rounds—“Heat Wave”
It was a good performance, but like Michael's, Lil got a little annoying. She was practically screaming the whole time. I would have liked to see a little more contrast in her vocals. Kara said that Lil was the "diva we were all waiting to see...this was your week" and if Lil couldn't nail this week, then could she nail the rest? Randy forgot his education and said "Hey Lil, how you be?" Wow.
Adam Lambert—“Tracks of My Tears” by Smokey Robinson
First of all, the hair. Adam, this is not Elvis week, but thank you for trying a softer image. Another major thank you for showing us another side of you! Finally! I loved the tenderness, the acoustic instruments on stage, and Adam's pure vocal. (He's a better soprano than any of the girls this season!) I loved this performance. The ending was great without a resolve. Adam really portrayed his versatility tonight. Kara said "I have six words for you, Adam: One of the best performances of the night!" Uh, Kara? That was eight words. Simon said he disagreed with Kara because that "was the BEST performance of the night." I agree. Adam won me over tonight.
Danny Gokey—“Get Ready” by The Temptations
Danny was looking good tonight. Wardrobe did well. I thought that Motown suits him really well, but I hated his stupid dancing with the backup singers. Danny reminds me of David Cook with his scruffy voice, but also in that I don't ever expect him to hit those high notes, but he always does effortlessly. David Cook did that as well. The judges didn't have much to say on this one. The show was running late. It was a good vocal. Nothing spectacular or different.
Allison Iraheta—“Papa Was a Rolling Stone” by The Temptations
This girl has got some pipes! It was a great performance, and that last run at the end was sick. Randy said Allison's performance was "blazing hot!" Kara said, "you sing like you've been singing for 400 years. That is from God. You can't teach that!" I hope the voters put her through a couple more rounds. I think she's got more to show.
Then Simon drew a mustache on Paula's face. What the heck? Seriously, those two are so annoying this season. A little more professionality please.
My favorites of the night were Matt, Kris, Adam, and Allison.
Predictions: Michael, Megan, and Scott may be in trouble. I think Lil still has a big fan base, but her time on the show may be ending if she doesn't blow the roof off next week. I hope Megan isn't voted off yet. I wish Scott would leave. Michael most likely will be the one voted off tomorrow.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Week 2
Sorry guys, I'm in Arizona this week with my family for Spring Break. I didn't have internet until now, so my post is late. No worries though, I took notes during the show and results.
This week the theme was Grand Ole Opry; Randy Travis was the celebrity mentor.
Michael Sarver--He sang Garth Brooks' "Aint Going Down Til the Sun Comes Up." It didn't showcase his voice enough. While he remembered all the words, this country boy should have a bigger library from which to choose.
Allison Iraheta--She sang "Blame it on Your Heart" by Patty Loveless. I remember jamming to this song when I was younger, so Allison's performance made me smile. I thought it was a great song choice for her voice, but that's really all I can say about it.
Kris Allen--He sang "To Make You Feel My Love" by Garth Brooks. Kris is just so cute! I love him, but I missed his guitar tonight. He was shaky when he went up into his falsetto, but it was nice to hear him sing a straight out ballad that showcased his vocal range. Simon said that he has a chance to go far in this competition, and I agree.
Lil Rounds--She sang Martina McBride's "Independence Day." As soon as she said what song she was singing, I got nervous. You can't touch Martina, especially if you're an R&B vibrato and runs singer. Martina has such a straight and pure voice that Lil didn't even come close to honoring the song. I will give her props for wanting to honor the country theme, but this show is about showcasing who you are as an artist. Lil should have picked a Dolly Parton song and made it her own. She messed up the words in the beginning too.
Adam Lambert--Oh boy. He sang Johnny Cash's "Ring of Fire." It was just plain creepy and weird. I didn't care for his interpretation at all. Adam is obviously not a country singer, but he could have done much better than this. I think Simon summed it up by saying, "what the hell was that?"
Scott McIntyre--He sang Martina McBride's "Wild Angels." I loved his arrangement with the pickup and the drums halfway through the song, though his vocals were a little shaky in the crescendo. His falsetto was terrible.
Alexis Grace--She sang "Jolene" by Dolly Parton. It was too light and airy. Alexis has a powerful voice, but she didn't use it tonight. Kara said Alexis lost her edge. She had awkward breaths and pauses and was flat on the high notes at the bridge.
Danny Gokey--He sang "Jesus, Take the Wheel" by Idol's own Carrie Underwood. The song is rather monotonous during the verses, and I wish Danny had told the story instead of just singing it. Then he hit that beautiful crescendo and the soulful chorus and the Danny I love was back. One of my favorites of the night.
Anoop Desai--He sang "You Were Always on My Mind" by Willie Nelson. This song always creeps me out because it's in Practical Magic, but Anoop stole the show with this performance. He was back to the wild card we all rooted for. I loved that he brought a contemporary soulful edge to the song. It was a tender performance with great vocal control and melodic changes.
Megan Joy Corkrey--She sang "Walking after Midnight" by Patsy Cline. Even with the flu, this girl is awesome. I absolutely love her. She had a few issues at the key change, but considering she was extremely sick, it was a great performance. She showed some power at the end that I haven't heard from her before. Simon told her she should be sick every week.
Matt Giraud--He sang "So Small" by Carrie Underwood. I love watching Matt play the piano. His arrangement was awesome. His soulful and scruffy voice reminds me of Gavin DeGraw. This was also one of my favorite performances of the night.
I know results are over, but I predicted that Lil, Allison, and Michael would be in the bottom three.
My season favorites are Danny, Kris, Matt, Megan, and Anoop (in that order).
RESULTS
They finally found a solution for Scott during the group song by letting him play the piano while everyone else dances around him. Way to go. Did anyone else see Kris and his dancing feet at the end of the group performance? So cute.
Allison, Michael, and Alexis were in the bottom three.
Brad Paisley performed "Then."
Ryan announced that Allison was safe.
Randy totally forgot Alexis’ name. He paused way too long when Ryan asked him out of Adam and Alexis, who was in the bottom three. Are you kidding? Adam was freaky and weird but he’s a favorite. Easy choice. Randy then called Alexis, Allison. Oops.
Carrie Underwood and Randy Travis performed “I Told You So.” I’m really confused because Carrie's version of that song (originally by Randy Travis) is written as a duet during the chorus for a male and female, but Randy didn’t sing that with her. Then Randy stopped playing guitar half way through. Why was he even on stage?
Ryan announced that Michael was safe. The judges considered saving Alexis depending on her performance. She gave way more power, but it was not good enough for her to be saved. Alexis went home.
Top 10 going on tour—Danny, Lil, Anoop, Scott, Megan Joy, Matt, Kris, Adam, Allison, Michael
Next week is Motown!
What do you think of the new introduction? Is it too flashy? I think it takes way too long. I also think the judges talk/argue way more this season and they let the contestants respond too much. Just say your opinion and move on. We want to see the singing!
This week the theme was Grand Ole Opry; Randy Travis was the celebrity mentor.
Michael Sarver--He sang Garth Brooks' "Aint Going Down Til the Sun Comes Up." It didn't showcase his voice enough. While he remembered all the words, this country boy should have a bigger library from which to choose.
Allison Iraheta--She sang "Blame it on Your Heart" by Patty Loveless. I remember jamming to this song when I was younger, so Allison's performance made me smile. I thought it was a great song choice for her voice, but that's really all I can say about it.
Kris Allen--He sang "To Make You Feel My Love" by Garth Brooks. Kris is just so cute! I love him, but I missed his guitar tonight. He was shaky when he went up into his falsetto, but it was nice to hear him sing a straight out ballad that showcased his vocal range. Simon said that he has a chance to go far in this competition, and I agree.
Lil Rounds--She sang Martina McBride's "Independence Day." As soon as she said what song she was singing, I got nervous. You can't touch Martina, especially if you're an R&B vibrato and runs singer. Martina has such a straight and pure voice that Lil didn't even come close to honoring the song. I will give her props for wanting to honor the country theme, but this show is about showcasing who you are as an artist. Lil should have picked a Dolly Parton song and made it her own. She messed up the words in the beginning too.
Adam Lambert--Oh boy. He sang Johnny Cash's "Ring of Fire." It was just plain creepy and weird. I didn't care for his interpretation at all. Adam is obviously not a country singer, but he could have done much better than this. I think Simon summed it up by saying, "what the hell was that?"
Scott McIntyre--He sang Martina McBride's "Wild Angels." I loved his arrangement with the pickup and the drums halfway through the song, though his vocals were a little shaky in the crescendo. His falsetto was terrible.
Alexis Grace--She sang "Jolene" by Dolly Parton. It was too light and airy. Alexis has a powerful voice, but she didn't use it tonight. Kara said Alexis lost her edge. She had awkward breaths and pauses and was flat on the high notes at the bridge.
Danny Gokey--He sang "Jesus, Take the Wheel" by Idol's own Carrie Underwood. The song is rather monotonous during the verses, and I wish Danny had told the story instead of just singing it. Then he hit that beautiful crescendo and the soulful chorus and the Danny I love was back. One of my favorites of the night.
Anoop Desai--He sang "You Were Always on My Mind" by Willie Nelson. This song always creeps me out because it's in Practical Magic, but Anoop stole the show with this performance. He was back to the wild card we all rooted for. I loved that he brought a contemporary soulful edge to the song. It was a tender performance with great vocal control and melodic changes.
Megan Joy Corkrey--She sang "Walking after Midnight" by Patsy Cline. Even with the flu, this girl is awesome. I absolutely love her. She had a few issues at the key change, but considering she was extremely sick, it was a great performance. She showed some power at the end that I haven't heard from her before. Simon told her she should be sick every week.
Matt Giraud--He sang "So Small" by Carrie Underwood. I love watching Matt play the piano. His arrangement was awesome. His soulful and scruffy voice reminds me of Gavin DeGraw. This was also one of my favorite performances of the night.
I know results are over, but I predicted that Lil, Allison, and Michael would be in the bottom three.
My season favorites are Danny, Kris, Matt, Megan, and Anoop (in that order).
RESULTS
They finally found a solution for Scott during the group song by letting him play the piano while everyone else dances around him. Way to go. Did anyone else see Kris and his dancing feet at the end of the group performance? So cute.
Allison, Michael, and Alexis were in the bottom three.
Brad Paisley performed "Then."
Ryan announced that Allison was safe.
Randy totally forgot Alexis’ name. He paused way too long when Ryan asked him out of Adam and Alexis, who was in the bottom three. Are you kidding? Adam was freaky and weird but he’s a favorite. Easy choice. Randy then called Alexis, Allison. Oops.
Carrie Underwood and Randy Travis performed “I Told You So.” I’m really confused because Carrie's version of that song (originally by Randy Travis) is written as a duet during the chorus for a male and female, but Randy didn’t sing that with her. Then Randy stopped playing guitar half way through. Why was he even on stage?
Ryan announced that Michael was safe. The judges considered saving Alexis depending on her performance. She gave way more power, but it was not good enough for her to be saved. Alexis went home.
Top 10 going on tour—Danny, Lil, Anoop, Scott, Megan Joy, Matt, Kris, Adam, Allison, Michael
Next week is Motown!
What do you think of the new introduction? Is it too flashy? I think it takes way too long. I also think the judges talk/argue way more this season and they let the contestants respond too much. Just say your opinion and move on. We want to see the singing!
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Week One Results
Okay, the new rule is the Judges' Save. The judges have the power to save any contestant they believe has been voted off too soon. (i.e. instances like Michael Johns, Chris Daughtry, and Jennifer Hudson) The save must be unanimous among the four judges and can only be used once during the season (up until the top 5 round). The week this save is used, no one will go home, but two contestants will go home the following week.
I think this is a great idea. Many times America just assumes certain contestants are safe, so they use their votes elsewhere. If too many voters do this, the contestant could go home, and then all of America is in an uproar. So far this season doesn't seem to have as many standout contestants as Season 7, so I wonder if the judges will even have to use this at all, but we'll see. Either way, I think it's a great addition to the competition that should have been implemented several seasons ago.
Next Ryan introduced a clip of the contestants moving into their mansion. Is this American Idol or The Real World? They had a bowling alley. Aren't they supposed to be rehearsing?
Blame it on the choir nerd in me, but I always love the group songs. The arrangements and choreography...I enjoy every minute of it. Danny, I love you, but what was that? Poking fun at Danny's conversation with Simon on Tuesday night, they had Danny perform a brief dance solo. It was cute and funny, but extremely awkward and out of place. Oh, and does anyone else hold their breath whenever Scott has to dance?
[I meant to mention this last night. Did anyone else notice how Kara got a little ghetto slang when she was speaking to Lil Rounds? haha]
FORD VIDEO--couldn't find a link yet. I'll post it when I find one.
The first contestant to go home is Jasmine. Why do they always make the losers sing their losing song again? Wasn't it painful enough the first time?
So far Megan, Kris, Michael, Matt, and Allison are safe.
Kanye West performed "Heartless." Blah, blah, blah, who cares? What the heck was he wearing? He looked like a mechanic. His back-up singers looked pretty ridiculous too. The girl had like giant shoulder pads that stuck out to the sides. Is he trying to be like Coldplay now with the giant drums on stage? As if all his music weren't digitalized anyway.
Back to the results. Scott, Alexis, Danny, Adam, and Lil are safe. Anoop and Jorge await their fates.
Ryan announced that each week they will be bringing back former idols. I'm excited. I love seeing where everyone is now. I hope it's former idol contestants, not just winners. Because really, no one cares about Ruben and Taylor.
Kelly Clarkson, the original American Idol performed her new single, "My Life Would Suck Without You." She just released her album yesterday, and it is incredible. She got back to her "Breakaway" roots on this one. Again, you should go buy it right now. Kelly looks fabulous. I love this natural look she has going on. She's joined the Dove campaign, encouraging women that they are beautiful no matter what that number on the scale says. Ryan asked her about her relationship status. Leave the girl alone, she's single and happy and successful. The girl's got standards! Her performance was incredible as always, but she sang it in a lower key than the single release, which threw me for a loop. Kelly can sing the phone book. She shouldn't need to lower the key to make it easier. She still threw in those big belting high notes that we all know and love.
Finally, Anoop is safe. Jorge is going home. I think America got it right tonight. Both Scott and Anoop have some stepping up to do next week.
Just out of curiosity, what are some themes you guys would like to see on the show this season?
I think this is a great idea. Many times America just assumes certain contestants are safe, so they use their votes elsewhere. If too many voters do this, the contestant could go home, and then all of America is in an uproar. So far this season doesn't seem to have as many standout contestants as Season 7, so I wonder if the judges will even have to use this at all, but we'll see. Either way, I think it's a great addition to the competition that should have been implemented several seasons ago.
Next Ryan introduced a clip of the contestants moving into their mansion. Is this American Idol or The Real World? They had a bowling alley. Aren't they supposed to be rehearsing?
Blame it on the choir nerd in me, but I always love the group songs. The arrangements and choreography...I enjoy every minute of it. Danny, I love you, but what was that? Poking fun at Danny's conversation with Simon on Tuesday night, they had Danny perform a brief dance solo. It was cute and funny, but extremely awkward and out of place. Oh, and does anyone else hold their breath whenever Scott has to dance?
[I meant to mention this last night. Did anyone else notice how Kara got a little ghetto slang when she was speaking to Lil Rounds? haha]
FORD VIDEO--couldn't find a link yet. I'll post it when I find one.
The first contestant to go home is Jasmine. Why do they always make the losers sing their losing song again? Wasn't it painful enough the first time?
So far Megan, Kris, Michael, Matt, and Allison are safe.
Kanye West performed "Heartless." Blah, blah, blah, who cares? What the heck was he wearing? He looked like a mechanic. His back-up singers looked pretty ridiculous too. The girl had like giant shoulder pads that stuck out to the sides. Is he trying to be like Coldplay now with the giant drums on stage? As if all his music weren't digitalized anyway.
Back to the results. Scott, Alexis, Danny, Adam, and Lil are safe. Anoop and Jorge await their fates.
Ryan announced that each week they will be bringing back former idols. I'm excited. I love seeing where everyone is now. I hope it's former idol contestants, not just winners. Because really, no one cares about Ruben and Taylor.
Kelly Clarkson, the original American Idol performed her new single, "My Life Would Suck Without You." She just released her album yesterday, and it is incredible. She got back to her "Breakaway" roots on this one. Again, you should go buy it right now. Kelly looks fabulous. I love this natural look she has going on. She's joined the Dove campaign, encouraging women that they are beautiful no matter what that number on the scale says. Ryan asked her about her relationship status. Leave the girl alone, she's single and happy and successful. The girl's got standards! Her performance was incredible as always, but she sang it in a lower key than the single release, which threw me for a loop. Kelly can sing the phone book. She shouldn't need to lower the key to make it easier. She still threw in those big belting high notes that we all know and love.
Finally, Anoop is safe. Jorge is going home. I think America got it right tonight. Both Scott and Anoop have some stepping up to do next week.
Just out of curiosity, what are some themes you guys would like to see on the show this season?
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Week One
Now it's down to business. Finally the real competition has begun. With many changes and lots of confusion this season, the Top 13 kick off Season 8 tonight with hits from Michael Jackson (seems fitting because several of the contestants listed Michael Jackson as their favorite male artist). Two contestants will be going home tomorrow.
Lil Rounds--She has incredible talent and "The Way You Make Me Feel" is my favorite Michael Jackson song, but it did not portray her big voice at all. The song just wasn't challenging enough for her.
Scott McIntyre--I can never remember Scott's name, which probably says something as to how long he will last in this competition. I think he has amazing musical talent, but I'm not sure if that will be enough. So far, he's just "the blind guy." Tonight didn't help. While his performance was fairly good, it was slightly boring and not very memorable.
Danny Gokey--I've been on Team Danny since the beginning. I'm glad he got away from the sob story about his wife tonight and had some fun on the stage. I loved his quirky dancing and his scruffy vocals (and that smile).
Michael Sarver--Welcome to the competition. I loved seeing this side of Michael. He sings with so much passion, and again, the smile. I think he really connected with the song and the audience. Great job.
Jasmine Murray--Good song choice. I've had faith in this girl, but she kinda let me down again tonight. I think she has a beautiful and pure voice. Kara keeps saying how commercial she is, and I completely agree. It was a good performance, but she was flat here and there. The last note was overkill. She should have left it alone.
Kris Allen--I love when the boys get to bring out their guitars. Kris is just so darn adorable. Kara said when he plays his guitar, we get to see a whole other side of him. She's completely right. He was very Jason Mraz-esque tonight. Did anyone watch his dancing feet? =] Yeah, his voice cracked a couple times on the high notes, but he's got great stage presence. (P.S. I typed the Jason Mraz thing before Randy said it.)
Allison Iraheta--The token rocker chick this season, and she's just 16. She's got powerful vocals but tonight didn't impress me much. The song was kinda boring, but it was a good performance. I was a huge fan of her when she sang Heart during the Top 36 round. Carly flashback anyone? I think she's got at least a few more rounds in her. The faithful rock fans will put her through.
Anoop Desai--Interesting. Very karaoke. I agree 100% with Paula (who actually got a "boo"). That song is untouchable, and it didn't help that he just sang it straight. He tried too hard to imitate Michael Jackson. For the surprise 13th contestant, Anoop did not pick the right song at all.
Jorge Nunez--Let's throw a little Latin love in this season. Jorge is absolutely adorable. I loved when he got so emotional that he couldn't speak in English last week. Tonight, his performance was just average. It was an okay vocal, but that's about it. I'm with Simon on this one, it was just corny.
Megan Joy Corkrey--I LOVE this girl! She is such a breath of fresh air, truly unique. I'm not sure how long she will last against all of the big voices in the competition, but I think she has a future in the music industry. It was a cute performance, and she definitely brought a smile to my face.
Adam Lambert--This guy has SICK vocals. Like Danny, he's been a front-runner since the beginning. I'm still adjusting to his theatrical side, but no one can deny that this guy is untouchable when it comes to vocals. I can see him belting on Broadway or fronting a rock band. I'm excited to see what he brings to the competition. (side note: did anyone else think he looked super creepy when the strobe lights started flashing? ha.)
Matt Giraud--Ahh, the dueling pianist back in his element. I was not ready for his performance to be over. At the end of the song, I seriously went "wait, it's over already?" Great solid performance, as Simon said. I loved it.
Alexis Grace--I like Alexis and her blues-rock tone, but she didn't impress me tonight. It was a good performance, but not outstanding. I'd like to see her stick around a little longer and show her stuff though.
Pretty good first show. No one completely failed or forgot the words. The judges didn't even rip into anyone. Possibly because they're just being nice in the honeymoon phase or maybe because 13 contestants is a lot to pack into two hours.
Predictions: I think Jasmine, Scott, and Jorge may all be in trouble. I would say Anoop based on tonight's performance, but he's got quite the fan following.
Speaking of fan followings, I'm excited to hear the change in rules tomorrow night. I think giving the judges more power will improve the credibility of this competition and help to prevent any more Sanjaya catastrophes.
Kelly's performing tomorrow night. Her new album is amazing. Go buy it. Right now.
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