Again, here's who went home tonight:
1. Jason Yeager
2. Alexandrea Lushington
3. Alaina Whitaker
4. Robbie Carrico
I'd guess most fans are more upset about the girls than the guys, as I really do think we lost two decent female singers. The culprit? A combination of poor song choices and little air time. Alaina, probably, was a victim of one too many blondes on stage. Of the three, she probably had the least air time and weakest stage presence.
Most viewers likely are wondering why Alexandrea stayed instead of Amanda. I'd wonder the same thing -- if the show was set up so you could vote people off, rather than keep people on.
But that's not true, and while Amanda was seemingly universally hated, her vast amount of critics couldn't really do anything to get rid of her. Thus, her small, but loyal, fan base (read: Vote for the Worst) probably voted wholeheartedly -- while Alexandrea was favored over Amanda, but not to the extent where people would actually vote for her.
What do you guys think? Should Luke have gone instead of Robbie? Kady instead of Alaina?
Send me your thoughts.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
it's over
Montage of ousted contestants. How uncomfortable.
Robbie performs his sendoff song. Not too badly, actually. But he is sooo worried that his wig will fall off right now.
And we're done.
Robbie performs his sendoff song. Not too badly, actually. But he is sooo worried that his wig will fall off right now.
And we're done.
robbie goes home
Wow. Brad Pitt, Miley Cyrus, Reese Witherspoon, Mariah Carey, Snoop Dogg, Daughtry and Carrie Underwood will be on "Idol Gives Back."
Forget being charitable...let's boot somebody.
Down to Luke and Robbie. It could go either way.
I say Luke goes.
I'm wrong!
Robbie goes home.
Aww. Time to ditch the wig. Simon tells him to work on authenticity -- "it just never really felt real."
See ya!
Forget being charitable...let's boot somebody.
Down to Luke and Robbie. It could go either way.
I say Luke goes.
I'm wrong!
Robbie goes home.
Aww. Time to ditch the wig. Simon tells him to work on authenticity -- "it just never really felt real."
See ya!
filler filler filler
Final boy elimination.
But wait...Ryan emphasizes again that this is the strongest set of contests ever. Um, probably not the best time to say that. Beatles song permission...yada, yada, yada. Did Ruben Studdard really record a song that will be played on the show? Please no.
Wow. Did we really need a recap of last year's "Idol Gives Back"? Apparently so. I can't believe I have to sit through this filler.
OK, down to business.
No...a commercial.
But wait...Ryan emphasizes again that this is the strongest set of contests ever. Um, probably not the best time to say that. Beatles song permission...yada, yada, yada. Did Ruben Studdard really record a song that will be played on the show? Please no.
Wow. Did we really need a recap of last year's "Idol Gives Back"? Apparently so. I can't believe I have to sit through this filler.
OK, down to business.
No...a commercial.
no longer devoted to alaina
Another girl elimination. I say Alaina goes.
Carly's safe. Ramiele's safe. Syesha's safe.
Down to Kady and Alaina. My "out" vote goes to Alaina.
I'm right!
Alaina's out!
Wow, some serious crying. She says she can't even sing right now. Massive tears. This is what AI fans live for.
Did you guys see her mom? She looks seriously pissed.
Danny, on the other hand, is really broken up. I love Alba so much.
Given Alaina's serious emotional distress here, Ryan gives her the option of not singing. She decides to sing. And actually does quite a good job. I'll miss her.
Carly's safe. Ramiele's safe. Syesha's safe.
Down to Kady and Alaina. My "out" vote goes to Alaina.
I'm right!
Alaina's out!
Wow, some serious crying. She says she can't even sing right now. Massive tears. This is what AI fans live for.
Did you guys see her mom? She looks seriously pissed.
Danny, on the other hand, is really broken up. I love Alba so much.
Given Alaina's serious emotional distress here, Ryan gives her the option of not singing. She decides to sing. And actually does quite a good job. I'll miss her.
alexandrea leaves us
Girl elimination time. My picks last night were Alexandrea and Alaina.
It's time.
Kristy's safe. Asia'h is safe. Brooke's safe.
Between Amanda and Alexandrea. Is it Amanda's time to go?
No, it isn't!
Alexandrea is out! Aww. Surprised?
Sendoff song. Archuleta is in tears. Song ends, and they embrace. Do you think they were getting it on?
It's time.
Kristy's safe. Asia'h is safe. Brooke's safe.
Between Amanda and Alexandrea. Is it Amanda's time to go?
No, it isn't!
Alexandrea is out! Aww. Surprised?
Sendoff song. Archuleta is in tears. Song ends, and they embrace. Do you think they were getting it on?
without jason -- he's gone
Time for male elimination. With obligatory recap.
OK, here we go.
Michael's safe. Chikezie's safe. Jason Castro's safe.
Down to Yeager bomb and Danny Noriega.
I say Yeager goes.
I'm right!
Aww...poor Jason. Is anybody surprised, though? He says the experience taught him about song choice. Simon tells him he needs "a heck of a lot of experience." Sendoff song. Wow. He's letting loose. I don't need to see this. Nobody really seems to be incredibly broken down about his departure.
Um, especially with those dance moves at the end of the song.
OK, here we go.
Michael's safe. Chikezie's safe. Jason Castro's safe.
Down to Yeager bomb and Danny Noriega.
I say Yeager goes.
I'm right!
Aww...poor Jason. Is anybody surprised, though? He says the experience taught him about song choice. Simon tells him he needs "a heck of a lot of experience." Sendoff song. Wow. He's letting loose. I don't need to see this. Nobody really seems to be incredibly broken down about his departure.
Um, especially with those dance moves at the end of the song.
no one booted yet
And here we go.
Seacrest asks Simon about the awkward moose-type hand gestures he's been making. You know what I mean.
Time for group song! Some of these outfits suck. And Danny REALLY looks like Alba tonight. Do you think Robbie wears the bandana to keep his wig on? It's really hard to tell the blondes apart tonight, including Robbie.
Nothing else to say.
Seacrest asks Simon about the awkward moose-type hand gestures he's been making. You know what I mean.
Time for group song! Some of these outfits suck. And Danny REALLY looks like Alba tonight. Do you think Robbie wears the bandana to keep his wig on? It's really hard to tell the blondes apart tonight, including Robbie.
Nothing else to say.
time to say goodbye. almost.
Reminder: Tonight's elimination show is 8 p.m. on Fox. I'll be blogging live as usual, so keep the great comments coming.
The results should be interesting.
Btw...DialIdol, the site that claims to monitor AI's busy signals, claims that based on this week's results, the only "safe" contestant was David Archuleta. Everyone else was too close to call.
Could we be in for a surprise?
The results should be interesting.
Btw...DialIdol, the site that claims to monitor AI's busy signals, claims that based on this week's results, the only "safe" contestant was David Archuleta. Everyone else was too close to call.
Could we be in for a surprise?
yeager bomb
In a season relatively devoid of juicy gossip, I'm glad we have sites like this one, where message board posters tell us that Jason Yeager's son is the result of a relationship he had when he was 18 -- with a 14-year-old girl.
Say it ain't so!
(Don't worry, David Hernandez...I'm still holding on to those stripper rumors!)
hair today...
Gone tonight?
TMZ says Robbie Carrico, also known as the Bo Bice wannabe who once dated Britney Spears, has been wearing a wig all season.
He is soooo trying to be Bo Bice.
Think he's due for elimination?
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
ladies night: not all right
What a weird night. Between the brief Blogger outage and the ongoing rounds of really bad song choices, I feel like I just traveled back to the '70s and hit up a sedate disco party with my parents. Fortunately, that didn't really happen.
I guess that's not the only bright side of the night. A stellar take on Heart, and some newly washed hair, made Carly's likeability increase. And I'm willing to venture that Brooke expanded her fan base by taking the stage with a guitar and a solid rendition of a Carly Simon classic.
But then, of course, there was the bad. At least five contestants set themselves up for possible inclusion in the bottom two. Among those five is Kady, who did a miserable rendition of "Magic Man," but I think her memorable personality will save her.
My bottom two? Alaina and Alexandrea.
I know, I know...you guys are probably SO shocked right now that I didn't put Amanda in my bottom two.
But I can see her having a rocker fan base, and she just earned the Vote for the Worst endorsement. Alex, on the other hand, has had virtually no air time. And she was pretty mediocre tonight.
I might change my vote tomorrow, though. I need sleep.
Who do you think is going home?
I guess that's not the only bright side of the night. A stellar take on Heart, and some newly washed hair, made Carly's likeability increase. And I'm willing to venture that Brooke expanded her fan base by taking the stage with a guitar and a solid rendition of a Carly Simon classic.
But then, of course, there was the bad. At least five contestants set themselves up for possible inclusion in the bottom two. Among those five is Kady, who did a miserable rendition of "Magic Man," but I think her memorable personality will save her.
My bottom two? Alaina and Alexandrea.
I know, I know...you guys are probably SO shocked right now that I didn't put Amanda in my bottom two.
But I can see her having a rocker fan base, and she just earned the Vote for the Worst endorsement. Alex, on the other hand, has had virtually no air time. And she was pretty mediocre tonight.
I might change my vote tomorrow, though. I need sleep.
Who do you think is going home?
kady works her magic. or not.
(Note: This post appears late due to a technological error. Kady was the 9th singer of the night.)
Kady Malloy takes the stage. She tells us that in addition to vocal imitations, she can also do opera. In the bathroom. Wow, this girl does everything. And a mean imitation of Simon, too.
Song: “Magic Man”
Me: Wow, the beginning of this song is rough. It seems even worse when compared to the other Heart song of the evening. Things aren’t looking good for Kady right now. While other singers have been forgettable, Kady is both forgettable and very off vocally, I think. Just boils down to the fact that if she wants to win this competition, she needs to do everything with a Britney Spears imitation. Clearly the only guaranteed route toward success.
Randy: “You just never found the notes for me.”
Paula: “When you powered, you sung it great.”
Simon: “I’m struggling as much as you’re struggling here…I just don’t think it went anywhere.”
Kady Malloy takes the stage. She tells us that in addition to vocal imitations, she can also do opera. In the bathroom. Wow, this girl does everything. And a mean imitation of Simon, too.
Song: “Magic Man”
Me: Wow, the beginning of this song is rough. It seems even worse when compared to the other Heart song of the evening. Things aren’t looking good for Kady right now. While other singers have been forgettable, Kady is both forgettable and very off vocally, I think. Just boils down to the fact that if she wants to win this competition, she needs to do everything with a Britney Spears imitation. Clearly the only guaranteed route toward success.
Randy: “You just never found the notes for me.”
Paula: “When you powered, you sung it great.”
Simon: “I’m struggling as much as you’re struggling here…I just don’t think it went anywhere.”
could alexandrea leave us?
(Note: This blog post appears late due to a technological error. Alexandrea was the 8th singer of the night.)
Here’s our quasi-local girl, Alexandrea Lushington, who we learn was the poster girl for the Atlanta Fire Department. Love her.
Song: “If You Leave Me Now”
Me: What I like about Alexandrea, aside from the fact that I once interviewed her, is that she does a great job of making old-school songs like this one contemporary. She has a good vocal tone, and even though I think I like her better on the faster songs, this performance is OK. The song choice makes it borderline forgettable, but the vocals save it to some extent. Her lack of air time so far might put her in jeopardy on a night like this, though.
Randy: “It was such a safe, kind of boring choice for me
Paula: “You’ve made it your own. I’ve never heard a female take on that song.”
Simon: “I think you’re struggling right now…The problem is that you were inconsistent on the song.”
Here’s our quasi-local girl, Alexandrea Lushington, who we learn was the poster girl for the Atlanta Fire Department. Love her.
Song: “If You Leave Me Now”
Me: What I like about Alexandrea, aside from the fact that I once interviewed her, is that she does a great job of making old-school songs like this one contemporary. She has a good vocal tone, and even though I think I like her better on the faster songs, this performance is OK. The song choice makes it borderline forgettable, but the vocals save it to some extent. Her lack of air time so far might put her in jeopardy on a night like this, though.
Randy: “It was such a safe, kind of boring choice for me
Paula: “You’ve made it your own. I’ve never heard a female take on that song.”
Simon: “I think you’re struggling right now…The problem is that you were inconsistent on the song.”
asia'h: lonely at the non-top
Last contestant of the night...Asia'h Epperson, who tells us she was a cheerleader when she was young. Yawn. Although she might have a bootleg copy of "Cheerleader Mix." Some of you know what I'm talking about.
Song: "All By Myself"
Me: Wow. Nice way to sneak in a cheap imitation of Celine Dion. What a rough beginning! She sounds so flat! I thought she'd redeem herself on the high notes, and she does -- to some extent -- but it's still a little uncomfortable. Great ending, but for most of the song it's like she's posing as somebody else. The hair extensions, the weird makeup, the awkward high notes. It's not her. And a really, really bad vocal, if you ask me.
Randy: "You did a really good job with it."
Paula: "It was great."
Simon: "You have got to be one heck of a singer to pull it off and unfortunately you're not."
Song: "All By Myself"
Me: Wow. Nice way to sneak in a cheap imitation of Celine Dion. What a rough beginning! She sounds so flat! I thought she'd redeem herself on the high notes, and she does -- to some extent -- but it's still a little uncomfortable. Great ending, but for most of the song it's like she's posing as somebody else. The hair extensions, the weird makeup, the awkward high notes. It's not her. And a really, really bad vocal, if you ask me.
Randy: "You did a really good job with it."
Paula: "It was great."
Simon: "You have got to be one heck of a singer to pull it off and unfortunately you're not."
not my bad
As you guys noticed...Blogger was just down for some maintenance. Obviously, the site's back up now. I've typed the missed posts in Word, and I'll cut and paste them at the end of the show. I'll proceed on with the last contestant, Asia'h, as soon as the commercials end.
Thanks for understanding.
Thanks for understanding.
devoted to alaina?
(Note: Alaina was the 7th singer this evening. This entry didn't post due to a technical error. Missed entries about two other singers will appear soon. Sorry for any inconvenience.)
Time for Alaina Whitaker, who tells us she doesn't like the foods on her plate to touch each other. Word. I totally agree. Ask me about an experience involving chili and peach cobbler.
Song: "Hopelessly Devoted to You"
Me: This is surprisingly better than what I initially imagined. She does a fine job, and even though people criticize her as having an annoying personality, I'm strangely drawn to her. Don't worry, I know she's underage. My main criticism, though, is that she really doesn't do much to make the song her own tonight. It's what you'd expect when you ask any 17-year-old to pick a song four decades older than she is.
Randy: "I don't think that was the right song for you."
Paula: "I think you did a real good job."
Simon: "I like you...my problem is that it's almost as if your grandma prepared you for this audition...On a positive note, I actually think you're one of the dark horses in this competition."
Time for Alaina Whitaker, who tells us she doesn't like the foods on her plate to touch each other. Word. I totally agree. Ask me about an experience involving chili and peach cobbler.
Song: "Hopelessly Devoted to You"
Me: This is surprisingly better than what I initially imagined. She does a fine job, and even though people criticize her as having an annoying personality, I'm strangely drawn to her. Don't worry, I know she's underage. My main criticism, though, is that she really doesn't do much to make the song her own tonight. It's what you'd expect when you ask any 17-year-old to pick a song four decades older than she is.
Randy: "I don't think that was the right song for you."
Paula: "I think you did a real good job."
Simon: "I like you...my problem is that it's almost as if your grandma prepared you for this audition...On a positive note, I actually think you're one of the dark horses in this competition."
carry on, amanda
Here's Amanda Overmyer, who's a bookworm. Wait, she likes reading biographies about rockers and books about the music business. Right.
Song: "Carry On My Wayward Son"
Me: Wat a weird song choice. As I predicted when I read it on the spoiler list this morning, it really does nothing to showcase Amanda's vocals. In fact, the opening notes, paired with the relatively long instrumental break in the middle, actually HURTS my opinion of Amanda. It's like we hardly ever heard her actually singing tonight. And what's up with her outfit? Striped hair and funky pants from the '80s. She looks like an animal. Um, like in the context of roadkill. As the song ends, it's clear Amanda's not happy with herself.
Randy: "It wasn't the right song choice for you."
Paula: "You are special. You are needed in this competition...This was not the right song for you."
Simon: "Everything felt contrived."
Song: "Carry On My Wayward Son"
Me: Wat a weird song choice. As I predicted when I read it on the spoiler list this morning, it really does nothing to showcase Amanda's vocals. In fact, the opening notes, paired with the relatively long instrumental break in the middle, actually HURTS my opinion of Amanda. It's like we hardly ever heard her actually singing tonight. And what's up with her outfit? Striped hair and funky pants from the '80s. She looks like an animal. Um, like in the context of roadkill. As the song ends, it's clear Amanda's not happy with herself.
Randy: "It wasn't the right song choice for you."
Paula: "You are special. You are needed in this competition...This was not the right song for you."
Simon: "Everything felt contrived."
no, kristy's good
Here's Kristy Lee Cook, who tells us we'd be surprised to know she's a tomboy. Um, no I'm not. Did you see her redneck outfit during the finalists' initial dance segment?
Song: "You're No Good"
Me: Yikes. Not loving her outfit. Way too shiny. It's like something an astronaut or Taylor Hicks would wear. That's not a compliment. That aside, I like this performance better than last week's, but she still seems a bit stiff on stage at times. And this song doesn't exactly seem that challenging vocally. Another problem? I can never tell if she's trying to make every song sound country, or if that's just how her voice sounds.
Randy: "That's a 100 percent improvement over last week."
Paula: "Good to hear you this way."
Simon: "It was a huge improvement."
Song: "You're No Good"
Me: Yikes. Not loving her outfit. Way too shiny. It's like something an astronaut or Taylor Hicks would wear. That's not a compliment. That aside, I like this performance better than last week's, but she still seems a bit stiff on stage at times. And this song doesn't exactly seem that challenging vocally. Another problem? I can never tell if she's trying to make every song sound country, or if that's just how her voice sounds.
Randy: "That's a 100 percent improvement over last week."
Paula: "Good to hear you this way."
Simon: "It was a huge improvement."
is ramiele leaving?
Here's Ramiele, who explains her excessive tears last week. OK, not really she basically just says she was really sad. Luckily, that's not her fun fact. Instead, we learn that she used to do Polynesian dancing. Me too! No, really. That's true. I can show you moves. And pictures.
Song: "Don't Leave Me This Way"
Me: Strangely, I like Ramiele more and more every week. She's clearly not cocky, and she pretty much always delivers...at least better than 75 percent of her competitors. That said, tonight is clearly inferior to what we saw last week, and while there's few stumbles vocally, she almost seems unsure of herself. Like I've said from the beginning, Ramiele's biggest potential pitfall is personality. She's done really nothing to connect with the audience, and always seems like she's just doing her job and exiting the stage. She could soon be in trouble.
Randy: "This was just OK for me vocally."
Paula: "You're also one to beat here...I feel like you didn't get to perform your magic."
Simon: "This is one of the performances which I'm not going to remember so well."
Song: "Don't Leave Me This Way"
Me: Strangely, I like Ramiele more and more every week. She's clearly not cocky, and she pretty much always delivers...at least better than 75 percent of her competitors. That said, tonight is clearly inferior to what we saw last week, and while there's few stumbles vocally, she almost seems unsure of herself. Like I've said from the beginning, Ramiele's biggest potential pitfall is personality. She's done really nothing to connect with the audience, and always seems like she's just doing her job and exiting the stage. She could soon be in trouble.
Randy: "This was just OK for me vocally."
Paula: "You're also one to beat here...I feel like you didn't get to perform your magic."
Simon: "This is one of the performances which I'm not going to remember so well."
this song's not about brooke
Brooke White tells us she's a beauty school dropout. But she did finish high school, she assures us. Wow. Combine her with crossword puzzle addict David Cook and this show becomes a regular brain trust.
Song: "You're So Vain"
Me: Brooke takes the stage with a guitar tonight, which impresses me at first but makes me a little skeptical when she stops playing it mid-song. Whatever. She sounds good, and this song is vocally on, but fortunately has fewer of the happy, shining people images we got last week. A good stage presence that's intriguing, but not over the top. Nice. In the end, this performance actually makes me like Brooke more, and I'm typing with the faint hope that one day we'll watch an R-rated movie together.
Randy: "It was a great song choice for you...I don't know if you brought anything different to it."
Paula: "I feel like this was the perfect song choice for you."
Simon: "I absolutely loved it."
Song: "You're So Vain"
Me: Brooke takes the stage with a guitar tonight, which impresses me at first but makes me a little skeptical when she stops playing it mid-song. Whatever. She sounds good, and this song is vocally on, but fortunately has fewer of the happy, shining people images we got last week. A good stage presence that's intriguing, but not over the top. Nice. In the end, this performance actually makes me like Brooke more, and I'm typing with the faint hope that one day we'll watch an R-rated movie together.
Randy: "It was a great song choice for you...I don't know if you brought anything different to it."
Paula: "I feel like this was the perfect song choice for you."
Simon: "I absolutely loved it."
syesha keeps up with the joneses
Time for Syesha Mercado, who tells us she's done a bunch of commercials in Miami. She can also do a really good imitation of a baby crying. Wow. That was really scary. Not necessarily something to do on TV.
Song: "Me and Mr. Jones"
Me: A slow song. It's something a little different for Syesha, and I'm glad it's not entirely a conventional ballad. Does anybody else notice that she has really bad skin? Overall, I like parts of the song, but it seems like a pretty weak choice. She redeems herself with a good belting high note at the end, but the rest is is pretty forgettable. Even more of a disappointment after her attempts to rock out last week. I could do without her.
Randy: "I don't think this was a great song choice for you."
Paula: "I like the interpretation of what you did and the choices you made."
Simon: "I thought it was a bit indulgent...I was put off as soon as you started it."
Song: "Me and Mr. Jones"
Me: A slow song. It's something a little different for Syesha, and I'm glad it's not entirely a conventional ballad. Does anybody else notice that she has really bad skin? Overall, I like parts of the song, but it seems like a pretty weak choice. She redeems herself with a good belting high note at the end, but the rest is is pretty forgettable. Even more of a disappointment after her attempts to rock out last week. I could do without her.
Randy: "I don't think this was a great song choice for you."
Paula: "I like the interpretation of what you did and the choices you made."
Simon: "I thought it was a bit indulgent...I was put off as soon as you started it."
crazy about carly
And here we go. Seacrest somehow feels compelled to announce that Randy wears a size 13-1/2 shoe. I won't add anything.
Paula calls last night's show fantastic. I can't say the same.
First up is Carly Smithson, whose interesting fact is that she works at a bar. And she loves to clean and cook.
Song: "Crazy on You"
Me: Definitely better than last week. Glad she opted for a sleeveless outfit, even if it does show off her tattoos. All in all, she just looks much less pale and vampiric. Love the makeup. And vocally? Well, she must be a huge Heart fan. This is the second song by the band she's performed this season. (Remember...she sang "Alone" during Hollywood Week.) Technically, she's a solid singer -- heck, she had a $2 million record deal -- and back to her old form this week. It's entertaining, and I'm slowly converting to her side.
Randy: "It was good toward the end for me...the beginning was a little rough for me."
Paula: "You are an amazing singer and you did an amazing job."
Simon: "I thought it was a much better performance than last week...I still don't think yet you've chosen or connected with the right song."
Paula calls last night's show fantastic. I can't say the same.
First up is Carly Smithson, whose interesting fact is that she works at a bar. And she loves to clean and cook.
Song: "Crazy on You"
Me: Definitely better than last week. Glad she opted for a sleeveless outfit, even if it does show off her tattoos. All in all, she just looks much less pale and vampiric. Love the makeup. And vocally? Well, she must be a huge Heart fan. This is the second song by the band she's performed this season. (Remember...she sang "Alone" during Hollywood Week.) Technically, she's a solid singer -- heck, she had a $2 million record deal -- and back to her old form this week. It's entertaining, and I'm slowly converting to her side.
Randy: "It was good toward the end for me...the beginning was a little rough for me."
Paula: "You are an amazing singer and you did an amazing job."
Simon: "I thought it was a much better performance than last week...I still don't think yet you've chosen or connected with the right song."
you say goodbye...
The Idols say "hello."
To songs by the Beatles, that is.
AI has received permission to have contestants sing songs composed by John Lennon/Paul McCartney. This means all fantasies involving Danny Noriega and "Yellow Submarine" might soon be fulfilled. Get the full story here.
Which song do you think is most likely to be botched?
Don't forget...girls take the stage at 8 p.m. I'll be blogging live. Be there.
To songs by the Beatles, that is.
AI has received permission to have contestants sing songs composed by John Lennon/Paul McCartney. This means all fantasies involving Danny Noriega and "Yellow Submarine" might soon be fulfilled. Get the full story here.
Which song do you think is most likely to be botched?
Don't forget...girls take the stage at 8 p.m. I'll be blogging live. Be there.
here come the girls!
Recovered yet from last night's action? Me neither.
A day later, not many of my opinions have changed. I have to admit, though, that I'm getting a little tired of David Archuleta's saccharine goodness. The judges better be careful with their excessive praise. AI viewers don't want 100 percent perfection, and if David doesn't get an edge soon, he could be the next Melinda Doolittle.
Another thing...maybe I was too harsh in my criticism of Chikezie. I just don't like him. I don't know why, either.
Anyway, that's over and done with -- for now -- and we should turn our attention to the ladies. They'll sing '70s songs too. As usual, tonight's show starts at 8 p.m. on Fox. I'll be blogging live again, of course.
A spoiler list is circulating online of the songs they'll be singing. I can't refute or verify its accuracy, but if you're interested in the ladies' rumored song choices, click here.
Don't say I didn't warn you!!
A day later, not many of my opinions have changed. I have to admit, though, that I'm getting a little tired of David Archuleta's saccharine goodness. The judges better be careful with their excessive praise. AI viewers don't want 100 percent perfection, and if David doesn't get an edge soon, he could be the next Melinda Doolittle.
Another thing...maybe I was too harsh in my criticism of Chikezie. I just don't like him. I don't know why, either.
Anyway, that's over and done with -- for now -- and we should turn our attention to the ladies. They'll sing '70s songs too. As usual, tonight's show starts at 8 p.m. on Fox. I'll be blogging live again, of course.
A spoiler list is circulating online of the songs they'll be singing. I can't refute or verify its accuracy, but if you're interested in the ladies' rumored song choices, click here.
Don't say I didn't warn you!!
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
boys: better, but not good
Well, I guess I enjoyed this week's male performances better than what we saw last time, but that's not saying a lot.
Even with theme, at least we got a grasp on some contestants' personalities -- not due, of course, to the not-fun facts we got before their performances. I'm not going to say my life has been changed entirely now that I know David Cook loves to do crossword puzzles.
Anyway, my picks for elimination this week are Luke Menard and Jason Yeager. Yes, I realize I picked last week. But I'm really confident this time.
My three best performances go to David, David and (reluctantly) David:
1. David Hernandez
2. David Archuleta
3. David Cook (by a long shot)
What did you guys think of tonight's show? Who do you think is going home? And how do you feel about the rise in contestants willing to talk back to Simon?
Even with theme, at least we got a grasp on some contestants' personalities -- not due, of course, to the not-fun facts we got before their performances. I'm not going to say my life has been changed entirely now that I know David Cook loves to do crossword puzzles.
Anyway, my picks for elimination this week are Luke Menard and Jason Yeager. Yes, I realize I picked last week. But I'm really confident this time.
My three best performances go to David, David and (reluctantly) David:
1. David Hernandez
2. David Archuleta
3. David Cook (by a long shot)
What did you guys think of tonight's show? Who do you think is going home? And how do you feel about the rise in contestants willing to talk back to Simon?
imagine david winning
Here's David Archuleta. His little-known fact is that he once performed for the Season 1 finalists of AI. Um, that's not necessarily a surprise. One word: Google.
Song: "Imagine"
Me: First, what's up with all the David Archuleta fans in the audience? Did they recruit guests from a junior high or something? Anyway, this performance is great. You know the drill. The producers are pushing him hard core. Vocally solid, hot in teenagers' minds, etc., etc. And he totally just made a boy band version of that song. Everybody loves him.
Randy: "That's one of the best vocals I've ever heard on this show."
Paula: "One of the most moving performances I've ever heard." (crying)
Simon: "Right now, you're the one to beat and there are 19 very miserable contestants after that."
Song: "Imagine"
Me: First, what's up with all the David Archuleta fans in the audience? Did they recruit guests from a junior high or something? Anyway, this performance is great. You know the drill. The producers are pushing him hard core. Vocally solid, hot in teenagers' minds, etc., etc. And he totally just made a boy band version of that song. Everybody loves him.
Randy: "That's one of the best vocals I've ever heard on this show."
Paula: "One of the most moving performances I've ever heard." (crying)
Simon: "Right now, you're the one to beat and there are 19 very miserable contestants after that."
david cook's all right
OK, here's David Cook, who tells us he likes to do stuff like crossword puzzles and word searches. I'm guessing that's about as intellectual as he gets.
Song: "All Right Now"
Me: Not one of my favorite contestants. That said, I'm impressed with his decision to play a guitar, and he doesn't seem like as much of a poser this week. Emphasis on the "as much." Vocally, he's a little more of a rocker. While I still consider him a cheap Daughtry knockoff, I think this performance might keep him around another week.
Randy: "To me, you're our real rocker."
Paula: "You are the real deal."
Simon: "You don't have a lot of charisma."
Song: "All Right Now"
Me: Not one of my favorite contestants. That said, I'm impressed with his decision to play a guitar, and he doesn't seem like as much of a poser this week. Emphasis on the "as much." Vocally, he's a little more of a rocker. While I still consider him a cheap Daughtry knockoff, I think this performance might keep him around another week.
Randy: "To me, you're our real rocker."
Paula: "You are the real deal."
Simon: "You don't have a lot of charisma."
believe in chikezie?
Chikezie is up. He tells us his name is Nigerian. And often mispronounced.
Song: "I Believe"
Me: Man, this guy is really weird. I'm happy he's not wearing a leisure suit, at least. I'm not really feeling this performance, regardless of how badly he's trying to be a soul singer. Um, you're not a groovy pimp and I'm not loving this performance. It's borderline forgettable to me, despite the judges' (overly enthusiastic) praise.
Randy: "Chikezie is back, America."
Paula: "It was brilliant, and it was fun."
Simon: "You looked better, you sounded better."
Song: "I Believe"
Me: Man, this guy is really weird. I'm happy he's not wearing a leisure suit, at least. I'm not really feeling this performance, regardless of how badly he's trying to be a soul singer. Um, you're not a groovy pimp and I'm not loving this performance. It's borderline forgettable to me, despite the judges' (overly enthusiastic) praise.
Randy: "Chikezie is back, America."
Paula: "It was brilliant, and it was fun."
Simon: "You looked better, you sounded better."
david's runnin' on empty
Jason Yeager, aka Yeager Bomb, is up. His fun fact is that he plays a lot of instruments. Wow, he's rocking some serious man boob, saccording to my viewing partner Dawn. He also uses the word "instrumentation."
Song: "Long Train Runnin'"
Me: I totally want this guy to be gone. He reminds me of those guys from "A Night at the Roxbury." Fortunately, my prophecy might be fulfilled this week. The vocals sound flat, and he still seems just way too cabaret for the AI stage. And the fact that we got no footage of his kid -- and no mention of his dead grandma -- will only hurt him more.
Randy: "I don't think you did yourself any justice with that song particularly."
Paula: "It was fun to see this side of you...Be careful in your song choice."
Simon: "Last week was boring, this week was just awkward and ordinary."
Song: "Long Train Runnin'"
Me: I totally want this guy to be gone. He reminds me of those guys from "A Night at the Roxbury." Fortunately, my prophecy might be fulfilled this week. The vocals sound flat, and he still seems just way too cabaret for the AI stage. And the fact that we got no footage of his kid -- and no mention of his dead grandma -- will only hurt him more.
Randy: "I don't think you did yourself any justice with that song particularly."
Paula: "It was fun to see this side of you...Be careful in your song choice."
Simon: "Last week was boring, this week was just awkward and ordinary."
david rolls to success
Time for David Hernandez, who tells us he did gymnastics as a kid. And wore leotards. Um, not exactly dispelling the stripper rumors, dude.
Song: "Papa Was a Rolling Stone"
Me: Why do I love this guy so much? He has scandal (kind of). Intrigue (kind of). And good vocals (for real). This is a great performance, vocally solid and a great stage performance. Best of the night. Even better, he might have a history as a gay stripper! What more could we want? Take it off, baby. Take it off.
Randy: "Now this is the David Hernandez that we fell in love with."
Paula: "Unbelievable"
Simon: "In my opinion that was the best vocal of the night so far."
Song: "Papa Was a Rolling Stone"
Me: Why do I love this guy so much? He has scandal (kind of). Intrigue (kind of). And good vocals (for real). This is a great performance, vocally solid and a great stage performance. Best of the night. Even better, he might have a history as a gay stripper! What more could we want? Take it off, baby. Take it off.
Randy: "Now this is the David Hernandez that we fell in love with."
Paula: "Unbelievable"
Simon: "In my opinion that was the best vocal of the night so far."
danny's a superstar?
Yes! Danny Noriega, also known as Jessica Alba. He informs us he was once in a punk band. Um, did they just show a pic of him hugging a girl?
Song: "Superstar"
Me: This is different from last week. I'm not as excited. Danny with a slow jam. And I love the cardigan. I'm not totally feeling the performance, though. I want him in tight pants. Maybe even the dress Jessica wore at Sunday's Oscars. I have nothing else to say. I'm disappointed.
Randy: "Just let it go. You can sing."
Paula: "You've got amazing vocal skill, you really do...You can't overthink it."
Simon: "I think you were trying too hard."
Song: "Superstar"
Me: This is different from last week. I'm not as excited. Danny with a slow jam. And I love the cardigan. I'm not totally feeling the performance, though. I want him in tight pants. Maybe even the dress Jessica wore at Sunday's Oscars. I have nothing else to say. I'm disappointed.
Randy: "Just let it go. You can sing."
Paula: "You've got amazing vocal skill, you really do...You can't overthink it."
Simon: "I think you were trying too hard."
robbie gets in our blood
Time for Robbie Carrico, who tells us we'd be surprised to know he drag races cars. I'm not.
Song: "Hot Blooded"
Me: Wow. This guy tries so hard to be Bo Bice. Pretty soon he'll be turning me down for interviews, too. It's a good performance, but it seems a little off vocally at points. I think I finally agree with Simon's claims that he's not entirely a full-fledged rocker. Like my viewing partners just said...he always appears way too awkward on stage to be a rock star.
Randy: "I don't know if the rock thing is really, really your thing."
Paula: "I think in some ways, though, you played it a little safe this week."
Simon: "Actually, I thought the vocal was OK this week."
Song: "Hot Blooded"
Me: Wow. This guy tries so hard to be Bo Bice. Pretty soon he'll be turning me down for interviews, too. It's a good performance, but it seems a little off vocally at points. I think I finally agree with Simon's claims that he's not entirely a full-fledged rocker. Like my viewing partners just said...he always appears way too awkward on stage to be a rock star.
Randy: "I don't know if the rock thing is really, really your thing."
Paula: "I think in some ways, though, you played it a little safe this week."
Simon: "Actually, I thought the vocal was OK this week."
did luke kill it?
Next up: Luke Menard. We learn that he's in an a cappella group that performs at a bunch of colleges in Indiana. Um, cool?
Song: "Killer Queen"
Me: Wow. Luke is trying to rock out. He must have learned that in his band. Or not. It's a better performance than last week. Not only does it show more range, but it has a ton more energy. But I guess that's not saying a lot. Somehow, this guy always reminds me of "Dawson's Creek." And not in an 11th grade fantasies of Pacey kind of way. He needs some personality.
Randy: "I like you better actually this week than last week."
Paula: "I thought it was really great for you vocally."
Simon: "I think it was a mistake...The singer of that song had charisma and personality. You didn't."
Song: "Killer Queen"
Me: Wow. Luke is trying to rock out. He must have learned that in his band. Or not. It's a better performance than last week. Not only does it show more range, but it has a ton more energy. But I guess that's not saying a lot. Somehow, this guy always reminds me of "Dawson's Creek." And not in an 11th grade fantasies of Pacey kind of way. He needs some personality.
Randy: "I like you better actually this week than last week."
Paula: "I thought it was really great for you vocally."
Simon: "I think it was a mistake...The singer of that song had charisma and personality. You didn't."
is jason your everything?
Now we have dreadlocked Jason Castro, his fun fact is that he really hates doing interviews. Wow. Way to endorse yourself as a future figure in the public spotlight. He says he doesn't like the "not music stuff" that comes with AI. Hmm, like, talking?
Song: "I Just Want to be Your Everything"
Me: Yes! Guitar again! I'm so happy. I like this guy, although I have to admit that I'd like it better if he didn't have backup music in addition to the guitar. As much as I like Jason, I have to admit that the majority of his appeal right now is that of a novelty contestant. I just had a strange -- and painful -- realization that if he ever got on the radio, he'd be singing "Hey There Delilah, part 2." Are you with me?
Randy: "The vocals just weren't that great."
Paula: "I think you made a clever choice with the song...I would like to next week see you without the guitar."
Simon: "I thought the song was horrible."
Song: "I Just Want to be Your Everything"
Me: Yes! Guitar again! I'm so happy. I like this guy, although I have to admit that I'd like it better if he didn't have backup music in addition to the guitar. As much as I like Jason, I have to admit that the majority of his appeal right now is that of a novelty contestant. I just had a strange -- and painful -- realization that if he ever got on the radio, he'd be singing "Hey There Delilah, part 2." Are you with me?
Randy: "The vocals just weren't that great."
Paula: "I think you made a clever choice with the song...I would like to next week see you without the guitar."
Simon: "I thought the song was horrible."
michael's way...or the highway
And we're off. It's 70's night.
First up, Michael Johns, who tells us he loves to play tennis. I guess it must also be fun fact night. This should be interesting.
Song: "Go Your Own Way"
Me: It's a good performance, naturally, with no major problems vocally. Nothing about it totally grabs me, other than Michael's Australian hotness. And maybe that's enough. Back to singing, though. I'm not bored, but I'm not ecstatic, either. He'll be safe, but let's hope he has some more surprises planned for later this season.
Randy: "Nice tone, nice song...I was waiting for you to just let go, but it just didn't happen."
Paula: "You're consistent."
Simon: "It was what I call coasting along...It was a very weak choice of song."
First up, Michael Johns, who tells us he loves to play tennis. I guess it must also be fun fact night. This should be interesting.
Song: "Go Your Own Way"
Me: It's a good performance, naturally, with no major problems vocally. Nothing about it totally grabs me, other than Michael's Australian hotness. And maybe that's enough. Back to singing, though. I'm not bored, but I'm not ecstatic, either. He'll be safe, but let's hope he has some more surprises planned for later this season.
Randy: "Nice tone, nice song...I was waiting for you to just let go, but it just didn't happen."
Paula: "You're consistent."
Simon: "It was what I call coasting along...It was a very weak choice of song."
boys on stage
Don't forget that tonight marks the second semifinal round. Guys hit the stage at 8 p.m. I haven't heard any confirmation on a theme -- or lack thereof -- but I'll post ASAP if I get any info before the end of the day.
As usual, I'll be blogging live throughout the show, so keep the great comments coming!
As usual, I'll be blogging live throughout the show, so keep the great comments coming!
Monday, February 25, 2008
take it off!
Finally...something juicy comes out of this season!!!
Vote for the Worst is reporting that there's a slight chance David Hernandez might have been a guy stripper in Phoenix prior to participating in AI.
Sure, right now they're relying primarily on Internet rumors, as well as these photos of David working at a gay bar. But who knows? More info might surface before he even takes the stage tomorrow night.
Please be true. Please be true. Please be true.
garrett: conspiracy target?
Happy Monday!
Remember Garrett Haley? As in, the weird guy with the bad hair who was voted off last week?
(I know, I was trying desperately to block him from my memory, too.)
Anyway, he's making headlines with this interview in which he says he didn't choose to sing "Breaking Up is Hard to Do" -- the producers made him do it.
After his top three song choices were handed out to other contestants, producers stuck Garrett with the ballad, he maintains.
Some subscribers to AI conspiracy tales are using these claims as fuel for their fires.
But seriously...if the producers hadn't intervened, do you think this kid still would have made it? Like, look at him.
Thoughts?
Friday, February 22, 2008
a weekend of ai reprieve
Use this weekend to rest up for another exciting week of AI.
I'll be back Monday with some more contestant profiles, as well as updates about the theme -- or lack thereof -- for Tuesday and Wednesday's performances.
Enjoy your days off, and if you get bored, admire the brilliant X's that cover contestants' faces on the top of the blog.
Credit goes to Dawn Minty.
I'll be back Monday with some more contestant profiles, as well as updates about the theme -- or lack thereof -- for Tuesday and Wednesday's performances.
Enjoy your days off, and if you get bored, admire the brilliant X's that cover contestants' faces on the top of the blog.
Credit goes to Dawn Minty.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
i don't hate goodbyes
A relatively painless night of eliminations. Actually went by quickly. Again, here's who was sent packing:
1. Joanne Borgella
2. Amy Davis
3. Colton Berry
4. Garrett Haley
No major surprises. I was 1 for 4 on my picks, which isn't incredible, by none of the ousted contestants were in my "definitely safe" category.
What sent them home? For the guys, it was mainly youth and inexperience in stage presence. Luke Menard was just as much in jeopardy, but his good looks probably saved him. As for the women, both singers were just off vocally last night. Amy was definite sendoff, and Joanne was at the same level as Kristy Lee Cook. Perhaps Kristy's alleged illness saved her.
What do you think? Were you surprised at the results? Who do you think is in most danger going into next week?
1. Joanne Borgella
2. Amy Davis
3. Colton Berry
4. Garrett Haley
No major surprises. I was 1 for 4 on my picks, which isn't incredible, by none of the ousted contestants were in my "definitely safe" category.
What sent them home? For the guys, it was mainly youth and inexperience in stage presence. Luke Menard was just as much in jeopardy, but his good looks probably saved him. As for the women, both singers were just off vocally last night. Amy was definite sendoff, and Joanne was at the same level as Kristy Lee Cook. Perhaps Kristy's alleged illness saved her.
What do you think? Were you surprised at the results? Who do you think is in most danger going into next week?
unsuspicously, colton's gone
Boy elimination time.
Whoa. It's between Chikezie and Colton.
Surprise. I say Colton goes. He is such a wannabe Clay Aiken.
I'm right! Colton's outta here. Simon tells him he won't make a successful career out of singing.
I agree, although he'll probably do just as well as this season's winner. That's not a compliment.
Video montage of the three ousted singers. Maybe Colton won't do a sendoff song.
Um, did Garrett just kiss his mom on the lips? Did anybody else see that?
Colton sings after all, but will likely be cut off by the credits. No, I'm wrong. He does the whole thing. Almost.
Whoa. It's between Chikezie and Colton.
Surprise. I say Colton goes. He is such a wannabe Clay Aiken.
I'm right! Colton's outta here. Simon tells him he won't make a successful career out of singing.
I agree, although he'll probably do just as well as this season's winner. That's not a compliment.
Video montage of the three ousted singers. Maybe Colton won't do a sendoff song.
Um, did Garrett just kiss his mom on the lips? Did anybody else see that?
Colton sings after all, but will likely be cut off by the credits. No, I'm wrong. He does the whole thing. Almost.
not enough prayers for joanne
Down to business. Dim the lights. This is the overly dramatic reveal I've been waiting for. Thank you, Seacrest.
Joanne's out!
Judges criticize her for song choice, etc., etc. Do you think Kristy Lee's "illness" is what saved her over Joanne?
She sings an encore of "Say a Little Prayer." It sounds even worse than last night.
Amen, sister. Go in peace.
Joanne's out!
Judges criticize her for song choice, etc., etc. Do you think Kristy Lee's "illness" is what saved her over Joanne?
She sings an encore of "Say a Little Prayer." It sounds even worse than last night.
Amen, sister. Go in peace.
amanda or joanne?
We're back. Turning the attention to the judges. Please no Paula performance yet. I haven't fully digested my chips and salsa.
Relief. Paula isn't actually singing live. It's just the premiere of her music video.
Which is...um, the only thing worse than an encore performance from Garrett. Randy, of course, is featured in it. I don't quite know how to summarize it except by noting that somewhere, MC Skat Kat is laughing right now. And I will have this song in my head for the next six hours.
Pity applause from the judges and audience.
Twenty more minutes. This eliminations will have to pass quickly.
Joanne and Amanda are called to the stage. One of them is in jeopardy, Seacrest says.
I say Joanne goes.
Cut to the break, naturally.
Relief. Paula isn't actually singing live. It's just the premiere of her music video.
Which is...um, the only thing worse than an encore performance from Garrett. Randy, of course, is featured in it. I don't quite know how to summarize it except by noting that somewhere, MC Skat Kat is laughing right now. And I will have this song in my head for the next six hours.
Pity applause from the judges and audience.
Twenty more minutes. This eliminations will have to pass quickly.
Joanne and Amanda are called to the stage. One of them is in jeopardy, Seacrest says.
I say Joanne goes.
Cut to the break, naturally.
caution
Seacrest just warned us that Paula will soon shake "what Mama Abdul gave her."
Consider yourself warned.
Consider yourself warned.
amy's home, where the votes aren't
Girl elimination time. With recap.
OK, down to business. Kristy Lee Cook takes the stage. I don't think she'll be gone. And I'm right. Safe.
Without hesitation, Ryan tells us Amy Davis is outta here!
Relatively painless. For viewers, of course.
Sendoff song, "Where the Boys Are." Aww...she's fighting tears.
Don't worry, girl. You're still hot. Just please burn those white leggings. Please.
OK, down to business. Kristy Lee Cook takes the stage. I don't think she'll be gone. And I'm right. Safe.
Without hesitation, Ryan tells us Amy Davis is outta here!
Relatively painless. For viewers, of course.
Sendoff song, "Where the Boys Are." Aww...she's fighting tears.
Don't worry, girl. You're still hot. Just please burn those white leggings. Please.
garret leifs the building
The drawn-out ousting process begins. With a recap. Seacrest reminds us that the judges call these singers the most talented 24 yet. Probably not the most accurate statement right now.
Garrett takes the stage? An elimination already? Yes! Whoa. That ended quickly.
Talk aobut ripping the Band-Aid. They must really hate him.
Sendoff song. "Breaking Up is Hard to Do."
Clearly, not for our romance with Garrett. And his little brother looks like O'Doyle from "Billy Madison."
Garrett takes the stage? An elimination already? Yes! Whoa. That ended quickly.
Talk aobut ripping the Band-Aid. They must really hate him.
Sendoff song. "Breaking Up is Hard to Do."
Clearly, not for our romance with Garrett. And his little brother looks like O'Doyle from "Billy Madison."
let the fillers begin
Show time!
Interestingly enough, Seacrest brings up the semi-pro controversy in the show's opening judge interviews. Paula is perhaps overly defensive of the contestants with recording contract pasts. Savor those comments. Coherence is rare.
Oh no. A segment profiling the top 24 photo shoot. Set against the musical backdrop of Daughtry. Glamour Shots meets a bad scene from "Beverly Hills, 90210." You get the picture.
Group song. Guys in suits. Girls in retro dresses. Ill-fitting go-go boots. Thank you for giving us the 60s acid experience sans acid.
Wow. Did anyone else just see Kristy Lee adjust her skirt so as to not flash the camera?
Ten minutes down, 50 to go.
Interestingly enough, Seacrest brings up the semi-pro controversy in the show's opening judge interviews. Paula is perhaps overly defensive of the contestants with recording contract pasts. Savor those comments. Coherence is rare.
Oh no. A segment profiling the top 24 photo shoot. Set against the musical backdrop of Daughtry. Glamour Shots meets a bad scene from "Beverly Hills, 90210." You get the picture.
Group song. Guys in suits. Girls in retro dresses. Ill-fitting go-go boots. Thank you for giving us the 60s acid experience sans acid.
Wow. Did anyone else just see Kristy Lee adjust her skirt so as to not flash the camera?
Ten minutes down, 50 to go.
sendoff songs soon
It's almost elimination time!
Tonight's show starts at 8 p.m. on Fox and I'll be blogging live as usual. Keep the comments coming!
As a matter of principle, I'll stick to my guns and say Luke Menard and Jason Yeager, as well as Amy Davis and Kristy Lee Cook, will go home tonight.
I've been reading some other blogs, and Amy Davis seems to be an almost universal "favorite" for elimination. Picks for spot No. 2 are divided between Kristy Lee Cook and Joanne Borgella.
Things are a little more murky when it comes to the guys. Both my picks seem to have fan bases. Other singers primed for elimination include Chikezie, Garrett and David Cook.
Can't wait to track everything, including the inevitable 50-minute filler time, soon!
Tonight's show starts at 8 p.m. on Fox and I'll be blogging live as usual. Keep the comments coming!
As a matter of principle, I'll stick to my guns and say Luke Menard and Jason Yeager, as well as Amy Davis and Kristy Lee Cook, will go home tonight.
I've been reading some other blogs, and Amy Davis seems to be an almost universal "favorite" for elimination. Picks for spot No. 2 are divided between Kristy Lee Cook and Joanne Borgella.
Things are a little more murky when it comes to the guys. Both my picks seem to have fan bases. Other singers primed for elimination include Chikezie, Garrett and David Cook.
Can't wait to track everything, including the inevitable 50-minute filler time, soon!
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
elimination news
Two contestants will be eliminated Thursday, Seacrest announced tonight.
It's a surprise to me, and not something I think was specified when the show first released its early-season schedule. Given that, I'm offering my see-ya predictions now:
Guys:
1. Luke Menard
2. Jason Yeager
Girls:
1. Amy Davis
2. Kristy Lee Cook
This week's Vote for the Worst endorsements, by the way, went to Danny Noriega and Amy Davis.
Which singers do you think are going home?
It's a surprise to me, and not something I think was specified when the show first released its early-season schedule. Given that, I'm offering my see-ya predictions now:
Guys:
1. Luke Menard
2. Jason Yeager
Girls:
1. Amy Davis
2. Kristy Lee Cook
This week's Vote for the Worst endorsements, by the way, went to Danny Noriega and Amy Davis.
Which singers do you think are going home?
not feelin' ladies night
Boring.
That's how Dawn, my viewing partner, half-jokingly advised I begin this post, and it's not too far from the truth. On a night that's traditionally one of the season's highlights, the 12 remaining women tonight offered mainly under-par performances.
I never thought I'd say this...but I think I even liked the GUYS better in this first round of semifinals, because at least some of them were concretely boring. The girls, on the other hand, were neither excellent nor awful. Just kind of...there.
Seacrest blamed it in part on illness, but aside from Kristy Lee and Carly, there was no additional mention of any kind of outbreak. And hey...if they already survived blue tongues, they're not exactly poised to cite illness as an excuse.
If I had to pick standouts, I'd say Ramiele's vocally solid, yet controlled, take on "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me." And Alexandrea Lushington's R&B spin on "Spinning Wheel."
The judges seemed to love Asia'h, but I thought she just kind of got stuck in the sea of this season's many, many, many renditions of "Piece of My Heart."
Who's out? Amy Davis hurt herself with a ballad, "Where the Boys Are." Pair that with the relatively little air time she's received, and I say goodbye.
Second spot goes to Kristy Lee Cook. She might get pity votes for being sick, but her first-singer slot puts her at a disadvantage. Not to mention the fact that her performance wasn't that good.
That's how Dawn, my viewing partner, half-jokingly advised I begin this post, and it's not too far from the truth. On a night that's traditionally one of the season's highlights, the 12 remaining women tonight offered mainly under-par performances.
I never thought I'd say this...but I think I even liked the GUYS better in this first round of semifinals, because at least some of them were concretely boring. The girls, on the other hand, were neither excellent nor awful. Just kind of...there.
Seacrest blamed it in part on illness, but aside from Kristy Lee and Carly, there was no additional mention of any kind of outbreak. And hey...if they already survived blue tongues, they're not exactly poised to cite illness as an excuse.
If I had to pick standouts, I'd say Ramiele's vocally solid, yet controlled, take on "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me." And Alexandrea Lushington's R&B spin on "Spinning Wheel."
The judges seemed to love Asia'h, but I thought she just kind of got stuck in the sea of this season's many, many, many renditions of "Piece of My Heart."
Who's out? Amy Davis hurt herself with a ballad, "Where the Boys Are." Pair that with the relatively little air time she's received, and I say goodbye.
Second spot goes to Kristy Lee Cook. She might get pity votes for being sick, but her first-singer slot puts her at a disadvantage. Not to mention the fact that her performance wasn't that good.
carly's not smiling
Carly Smithson's up. Wow! She discloses her prior $2 million record deal! I can't believe it. Do you think this will help or hurt her?
Song: "The Shadow of Your Smile"
Me: Surprisingly, I'm not too impressed. First, she looks like a vampire. And her outfit makes her look pregnant. I'm guessing she opted for long sleeves because producers often advise contestants that tattoos hurt their fan base. Performance-wise, though, it's not that good. The slow song is boring, even off-key at points. It's hardly a train wreck, but its subpar nature could easily hurt the singer who has been the primarily focus of this season's hype.
Randy: "That's what the show is all about...The best vocal of the past two days."
Paula: "You are the lucky coin in the pocket."
Simon: "I thought the song was way too old-fashioned for you...Everything about it for me was a letdown."
Song: "The Shadow of Your Smile"
Me: Surprisingly, I'm not too impressed. First, she looks like a vampire. And her outfit makes her look pregnant. I'm guessing she opted for long sleeves because producers often advise contestants that tattoos hurt their fan base. Performance-wise, though, it's not that good. The slow song is boring, even off-key at points. It's hardly a train wreck, but its subpar nature could easily hurt the singer who has been the primarily focus of this season's hype.
Randy: "That's what the show is all about...The best vocal of the past two days."
Paula: "You are the lucky coin in the pocket."
Simon: "I thought the song was way too old-fashioned for you...Everything about it for me was a letdown."
syesha cruises down the road
Syesha Mercado takes the stage. She gets a lot of pre-performance air time.
Song: "Tobacco Road"
Me: Wow. Does anyone else remember when Phil Stacey sang this song last season? Anyway, I have no idea why she chose this song. She's has like a Whitney Houston voice, packed with lots of high notes and belting. Those notes are all on pitch, make no mistake, but to me they don't exactly gel perfectly with a song that's supposed to have a rock edge.
Randy: "You definitely, definitely can sing."
Paula: "Joyful. Fun. Big."
Simon: "It wasn't your best, best performance. I don't think it really mattered because you are probably one of the most talented girls in this competition."
Song: "Tobacco Road"
Me: Wow. Does anyone else remember when Phil Stacey sang this song last season? Anyway, I have no idea why she chose this song. She's has like a Whitney Houston voice, packed with lots of high notes and belting. Those notes are all on pitch, make no mistake, but to me they don't exactly gel perfectly with a song that's supposed to have a rock edge.
Randy: "You definitely, definitely can sing."
Paula: "Joyful. Fun. Big."
Simon: "It wasn't your best, best performance. I don't think it really mattered because you are probably one of the most talented girls in this competition."
judges say they love ramiele
Now it's Ramiele Malubay, who has a big voice for a little girl. She loves saying that. She wants to be the first Filipino Idol.
Song: "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me"
Me: First of all, this probably isn't the best song choice, since Stephanie Edwards got voted off for singing this song in Season 6. Fortunately, Ramiele does it better. I'm not going to say it's the best performance EVER, but she does a better job of keeping my attention than other contestants tonight. In the end, I'll rank her highly. No major mistakes, some good high notes, but nothing people will be talking about for ages.
Randy: "Very classy, almost like a pro."
Paula: "You're a force to be reckoned with."
Simon: "You outsung every single person."
Song: "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me"
Me: First of all, this probably isn't the best song choice, since Stephanie Edwards got voted off for singing this song in Season 6. Fortunately, Ramiele does it better. I'm not going to say it's the best performance EVER, but she does a better job of keeping my attention than other contestants tonight. In the end, I'll rank her highly. No major mistakes, some good high notes, but nothing people will be talking about for ages.
Randy: "Very classy, almost like a pro."
Paula: "You're a force to be reckoned with."
Simon: "You outsung every single person."
asia'h has the judges' hearts
Now we get Asia'h Epperson, whose dad died shortly before the auditions. Is anyone else a little creeped out by the fact that the producers keep reminding us of that?
Song: "Piece of My Heart"
Me: First of all, how many times are we going to have to hear this song in Season 7? Seriously, is it like part of the AI hazing process or something? We might as well have a "Piece of My Heart" week so everybody can get it out of their system. Back to the performance, though. It's good, with a little more energy than what we got from, say, Kristy Lee. But she doesn't show too much range and while she most likely won't be eliminated, I wouldn't say it's worthy of a standout title.
Randy: "I loved that, man."
Paula: "You had fun up there."
Simon: "It was my favorite of the night."
Song: "Piece of My Heart"
Me: First of all, how many times are we going to have to hear this song in Season 7? Seriously, is it like part of the AI hazing process or something? We might as well have a "Piece of My Heart" week so everybody can get it out of their system. Back to the performance, though. It's good, with a little more energy than what we got from, say, Kristy Lee. But she doesn't show too much range and while she most likely won't be eliminated, I wouldn't say it's worthy of a standout title.
Randy: "I loved that, man."
Paula: "You had fun up there."
Simon: "It was my favorite of the night."
kady isn't doin' too groovy
Time for Kady Malloy, who we are reminded received rave reviews during auditions. She also does really cool impressions of Britney Spears.
Song: "Groovy Kind of Love"
Me: Oh no...she's sitting down, which means we'll be getting a slow song. But I like it. She has nice vocal control, and even with the slow song factor it isn't really that bad. It keeps my attention better than half of the other singers tonight. My main criticism, though, is that it makes her seem like an adult contemporary singer. It's like she listened to one too many Celine Dion CDs or something. Moral: She should do Britney imitations on EVERY song.
Randy: "This song was OK for me."
Paula: "I want to see the life of you more."
Simon: "That was like Night of the Living Dead."
Song: "Groovy Kind of Love"
Me: Oh no...she's sitting down, which means we'll be getting a slow song. But I like it. She has nice vocal control, and even with the slow song factor it isn't really that bad. It keeps my attention better than half of the other singers tonight. My main criticism, though, is that it makes her seem like an adult contemporary singer. It's like she listened to one too many Celine Dion CDs or something. Moral: She should do Britney imitations on EVERY song.
Randy: "This song was OK for me."
Paula: "I want to see the life of you more."
Simon: "That was like Night of the Living Dead."
alexandrea keeps us spinning
Next up: Alexandrea Lushington from Atlanta. Reminder: I interviewed her. I love bragging about that.
Song: "Spinning Wheel"
Me: She puts a pretty cool contemporary R&B vibe on this song. She kind of reminds me of Alicia Keyes right now. OK, maybe not that good. But you get the picture. It's different, and I see how viewers might be divided. In the end, I like it, mainly because of the originality factor. She's really trying to do something different, and her vocals seem to enhance that.
Randy: "You got it. It was hot, baby."
Paula: "You thought about your performance from top to bottom."
Simon: "I didn't get it...It reminded me of some terrible '60s musical."
After that, she gets into a slight banter with the judges.
Question: Do those comments have any bearing your like or dislike of contestants? In other words, would you not vote for someone based on his or her decision to talk back to the judges?
Song: "Spinning Wheel"
Me: She puts a pretty cool contemporary R&B vibe on this song. She kind of reminds me of Alicia Keyes right now. OK, maybe not that good. But you get the picture. It's different, and I see how viewers might be divided. In the end, I like it, mainly because of the originality factor. She's really trying to do something different, and her vocals seem to enhance that.
Randy: "You got it. It was hot, baby."
Paula: "You thought about your performance from top to bottom."
Simon: "I didn't get it...It reminded me of some terrible '60s musical."
After that, she gets into a slight banter with the judges.
Question: Do those comments have any bearing your like or dislike of contestants? In other words, would you not vote for someone based on his or her decision to talk back to the judges?
brooke is so happy
Time for Brooke White, the hot nanny who's never seen an R-rated movie. She tells us she'll never convert to the dark song.
Song: "So Happy Together"
Me: Whoa. Another repeat song from last night. Reminder: David Cook sang it Tuesday. Not a good strategy, guys. Not a good strategy. Anyway...a description of the performance. Imagine Jewel singing "So Happy Together." That's what this sounds like. It's all bluegrassed out, and it could hands-down use a little more excitement. Maybe something you'd learn from an R-rated movie. Still, I'd rather watch Brooke sing this than David Cook, so I guess in the end I am happy after all.
Randy: "The front part wasn't that good, but the back part, you started getting your slaying on."
Paula: "You have your own thing."
Simon: "There are times tonight I feel like I'm in some commercial for washing-up liquid in the 1960s."
Song: "So Happy Together"
Me: Whoa. Another repeat song from last night. Reminder: David Cook sang it Tuesday. Not a good strategy, guys. Not a good strategy. Anyway...a description of the performance. Imagine Jewel singing "So Happy Together." That's what this sounds like. It's all bluegrassed out, and it could hands-down use a little more excitement. Maybe something you'd learn from an R-rated movie. Still, I'd rather watch Brooke sing this than David Cook, so I guess in the end I am happy after all.
Randy: "The front part wasn't that good, but the back part, you started getting your slaying on."
Paula: "You have your own thing."
Simon: "There are times tonight I feel like I'm in some commercial for washing-up liquid in the 1960s."
amy takes us where the boys are
Here's swimsuit model Amy Davis. She calls herself a trade show model. Whatever.
Song: "Where the Boys Are"
Me: Whoa. A slow song. That'll put her at a disadvantage. That aside, she's not too bad, but I just can't really get into this song. Maybe it's just the tempo. Or the fact that she's trying to do a mix of pop and country. The end of the soung grabs me, but I was half asleep during the rest of it. I'd say easily better than Joanne, though.
Randy: "I didn't think it was great."
Paula: "The camera loves you...I feel the nerves got a little bit of you."
Simon: "You looked great, but you didn't sound great."
Song: "Where the Boys Are"
Me: Whoa. A slow song. That'll put her at a disadvantage. That aside, she's not too bad, but I just can't really get into this song. Maybe it's just the tempo. Or the fact that she's trying to do a mix of pop and country. The end of the soung grabs me, but I was half asleep during the rest of it. I'd say easily better than Joanne, though.
Randy: "I didn't think it was great."
Paula: "The camera loves you...I feel the nerves got a little bit of you."
Simon: "You looked great, but you didn't sound great."
amanda won't go
Amanda Overmyer takes the stage. She's the biker nurse. Btw...she looks sooo much older than 23. Hopefully she sings something other than Joplin. Please. Yes! She just noted she'll be singing something other than Joplin.
Song: "Baby Please Don't Go"
Me: It's not Joplin, but still typical Amanda. Very rocker grrl. My only criticism? It's not incredibly challenging vocally, and the background music at times seems to overpower her. That said, I like Amanda because I'd venture to say she's the only contestant who seems to deliver a consistent vibe, whether or not audience members like it. On the other hand, I don't know if I can imagine her being a stand-alone Idol. Seems like she'd fit in just as well with a band.
Randy: "I liked it."
Paula: "I just love everything that you do."
Simon: "I really like you."
Song: "Baby Please Don't Go"
Me: It's not Joplin, but still typical Amanda. Very rocker grrl. My only criticism? It's not incredibly challenging vocally, and the background music at times seems to overpower her. That said, I like Amanda because I'd venture to say she's the only contestant who seems to deliver a consistent vibe, whether or not audience members like it. On the other hand, I don't know if I can imagine her being a stand-alone Idol. Seems like she'd fit in just as well with a band.
Randy: "I liked it."
Paula: "I just love everything that you do."
Simon: "I really like you."
lovin' alaina more today
Next up: Alaina Whitaker, the often-called junior Carrie Underwood. Also the youngest contestant this season, Seacrest says. And her bday is tomorrow. The big 17. Almost legal.
Song: "More Today Than Yesterday"
Me: Wow. A repeat song. Reminder: Chikezie sang this last night. If you remember, when two contestants sang the same song -- "Feelin' Good" -- last year in semifinals, they were both eliminated. Fortunately, Alaina is 100 times better than Chikezie. She has a commanding stage presence and for the first time, I see the truth in the Carrie Underwood parallels. Vocally solid with even a few traces of originality. Hot, talented, intriguing. She should be safe.
Randy: "Once you got started, it was like going on."
Paula: "You nailed it."
Simon: "I think you're very good."
Song: "More Today Than Yesterday"
Me: Wow. A repeat song. Reminder: Chikezie sang this last night. If you remember, when two contestants sang the same song -- "Feelin' Good" -- last year in semifinals, they were both eliminated. Fortunately, Alaina is 100 times better than Chikezie. She has a commanding stage presence and for the first time, I see the truth in the Carrie Underwood parallels. Vocally solid with even a few traces of originality. Hot, talented, intriguing. She should be safe.
Randy: "Once you got started, it was like going on."
Paula: "You nailed it."
Simon: "I think you're very good."
joanne needs a prayer
Now it's time for Joanne Borgella, the plus-size model. She calls judgment day one of the toughest experiences of her life. I wonder where "Mo'Nique's F.A.T. Chance" ranks in that hierarchy.
Song: "Say a Little Prayer"
Me: Somehow, this is a predictable choice for her. It's OK, but the lower notes sound kind of flat. And she has virtually no stage presence. How did she win FAT Chance?!? Most importantly, she doesn't do enough to make it her own. Not enough risks taken. Hate to sound like Simon...but this reminds me very much of karaoke.
Randy: "That was pretty good."
Paula: "You've got to pull it together and shine through and enjoy it."
Simon: "I didn't like it at all."
Song: "Say a Little Prayer"
Me: Somehow, this is a predictable choice for her. It's OK, but the lower notes sound kind of flat. And she has virtually no stage presence. How did she win FAT Chance?!? Most importantly, she doesn't do enough to make it her own. Not enough risks taken. Hate to sound like Simon...but this reminds me very much of karaoke.
Randy: "That was pretty good."
Paula: "You've got to pull it together and shine through and enjoy it."
Simon: "I didn't like it at all."
kristy lee needs rescuing
First up: Kristy Lee Cook, who describes her occupation as training horses and reminds us she allegedly sold one of her prize horses to get to auditions. Hmm...still no mention of her contract with Arista Nashville.
Song: "Rescue Me"
Me: It's good, especially for a first-of-the-night performance. She tries to sing it with a country twang that ends up being reminiscent of Kellie Pickler. Except Kristy doesn't have the matching personality to make us love her. In the end, the song is a little too nasaly and gets more and more forgettable the longer she sings. No major problems, but her nervousness is apparent and this song just isn't made for a country singer.
Randy: "It wasn't your best performance."
Paula: "Being sick and being the first one...that's a double whammy."
Simon: "What did we get from that? Not a lot."
Song: "Rescue Me"
Me: It's good, especially for a first-of-the-night performance. She tries to sing it with a country twang that ends up being reminiscent of Kellie Pickler. Except Kristy doesn't have the matching personality to make us love her. In the end, the song is a little too nasaly and gets more and more forgettable the longer she sings. No major problems, but her nervousness is apparent and this song just isn't made for a country singer.
Randy: "It wasn't your best performance."
Paula: "Being sick and being the first one...that's a double whammy."
Simon: "What did we get from that? Not a lot."
again...no action yet
And here we go. Ryan informs us the flu season has hit the AI contestants. Don't worry...they're all still performing.
Simon says he likes it when people talk back to him. Liar.
Obligatory audition recap.
And we're out to commercials.
Simon says he likes it when people talk back to him. Liar.
Obligatory audition recap.
And we're out to commercials.
ready willing & eager
... for ladies night on AI!
Reminder: Tonight's show starts at 8 p.m. on Fox. The 12 remaining women will sing songs from a '60s music genre.
I'll blog the entire episode "live," so be sure to keep the comments coming throughout the show!
Sorry -- AGAIN -- for the incomplete profiles. Per a wise commenter's recommendation, I'm trying to set up a separate portal for the profiles so they don't get buried with all my standard updates. Be patient and forgive me. Please.
That said...I'll be ready to rumble at 8.
Reminder: Tonight's show starts at 8 p.m. on Fox. The 12 remaining women will sing songs from a '60s music genre.
I'll blog the entire episode "live," so be sure to keep the comments coming throughout the show!
Sorry -- AGAIN -- for the incomplete profiles. Per a wise commenter's recommendation, I'm trying to set up a separate portal for the profiles so they don't get buried with all my standard updates. Be patient and forgive me. Please.
That said...I'll be ready to rumble at 8.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
danny put us in prison
Quick addition: Thanks to his botched rendition of "Jailhouse Rock," Danny Noriega has officially received tonight's Vote for the Worst endorsement.
Think he's worthy of a spot as the next Sanjaya?
Think he's worthy of a spot as the next Sanjaya?
oh, boy...
Well, we're done with the male portion of the first semifinal round, an episode I thought was significantly slower than what we've seen in years past.
The culprit? The addition of a musical theme, undoubtedly. Almost universally, contestants appeared afraid to experiment with the songs they chose, offering throwback versions that for the most part were forgettable and devoid of uniqueness.
There were some highlights, though, namely Jason Castro's surprising likeability. He was the only contestant to take the stage with an instrument, and a guitar -- paired with a charismatic stage presence -- only expanded his fan base.
But Jason's song was the performance, not the rule. Jason Yeager and Luke Menard, unfortunately, opted for slow tunes -- perhaps the worst choice for two guys who have already received virtually no air time.
At any rate, as far as elimination goes, I saw Jason Yeager's out. The judges, I think, were too harsh in their criticism of Luke, making him susceptible to tons of pity votes.
Three best performances of the night? David Archuleta, Jason Castro, Michael Johns.
What do you think? Did the '60s theme help or hurt the singers? Who did you like best? Worst?
The culprit? The addition of a musical theme, undoubtedly. Almost universally, contestants appeared afraid to experiment with the songs they chose, offering throwback versions that for the most part were forgettable and devoid of uniqueness.
There were some highlights, though, namely Jason Castro's surprising likeability. He was the only contestant to take the stage with an instrument, and a guitar -- paired with a charismatic stage presence -- only expanded his fan base.
But Jason's song was the performance, not the rule. Jason Yeager and Luke Menard, unfortunately, opted for slow tunes -- perhaps the worst choice for two guys who have already received virtually no air time.
At any rate, as far as elimination goes, I saw Jason Yeager's out. The judges, I think, were too harsh in their criticism of Luke, making him susceptible to tons of pity votes.
Three best performances of the night? David Archuleta, Jason Castro, Michael Johns.
What do you think? Did the '60s theme help or hurt the singers? Who did you like best? Worst?
michael ignites us
Last singer of the night: Michael Johns. I predict he ends the song on a really strong note. Or maybe that's just wishful thinking. Oh, and I just learned he's married.
Song: "Light My Fire"
Me: I swear he sang this during Hollywood Week. He probably has, like, four songs. Still, he's really good. One of my favorites. He rocks out, hard-core, and it makes sense that the producers put him last. They're plugging him super seriously. I'm impressed, though. He, like David, is virtually guaranteed to hang around.
Randy: "What a way to end a great night."
Paula: "You are a great part of this show."
Simon: "I would say, Michael, you are the most consistent contestant we've had."
Song: "Light My Fire"
Me: I swear he sang this during Hollywood Week. He probably has, like, four songs. Still, he's really good. One of my favorites. He rocks out, hard-core, and it makes sense that the producers put him last. They're plugging him super seriously. I'm impressed, though. He, like David, is virtually guaranteed to hang around.
Randy: "What a way to end a great night."
Paula: "You are a great part of this show."
Simon: "I would say, Michael, you are the most consistent contestant we've had."
dreamin' of jason
Hopefully Jason Castro will revive this so far boring show. Again...he has some major dreadlocks. That's really his only defining characteristic. Oh, and he was on the MTV reality show "Cheyenne."
Song: "Daydream"
Me: Well, he adds a slight touch of life to the show by playing a guitar. Vocally, he's better than I expected, and the musical instrument enhances his performance. I actually really like him. Finally, something different. What a surprise. He has a really good stage presence and while I'm not 100 percent converted, I'm a total fan. Thank you for waking me up, dude.
Randy: "It was all right."
Paula: "For me, you did blow me away."
Simon: "I thought that was in the top two performances of the night."
Song: "Daydream"
Me: Well, he adds a slight touch of life to the show by playing a guitar. Vocally, he's better than I expected, and the musical instrument enhances his performance. I actually really like him. Finally, something different. What a surprise. He has a really good stage presence and while I'm not 100 percent converted, I'm a total fan. Thank you for waking me up, dude.
Randy: "It was all right."
Paula: "For me, you did blow me away."
Simon: "I thought that was in the top two performances of the night."
still in love with garrett?
OK, weird-haired Garrett Haley is up. How many times does Seacrest have to remind us that he looks like Leif Garrett? I get it.
Song: "Breaking Up is Hard to Do"
Me: It seems like this song has been done a MILLION times on AI. I think his take on it, unfortunately, is just way to slow and -- you guessed it -- forgettable. He's nasally, too. Really nasally. His high notes are impressive, but otherwise I'm ready to fall asleep. Again. Now I know why this guy got no air time during auditions.
Randy: "You didn't do anything with it."
Paula: "If you stay at that slow tempo, it brings the performance down."
Simon: "It was boring."
Song: "Breaking Up is Hard to Do"
Me: It seems like this song has been done a MILLION times on AI. I think his take on it, unfortunately, is just way to slow and -- you guessed it -- forgettable. He's nasally, too. Really nasally. His high notes are impressive, but otherwise I'm ready to fall asleep. Again. Now I know why this guy got no air time during auditions.
Randy: "You didn't do anything with it."
Paula: "If you stay at that slow tempo, it brings the performance down."
Simon: "It was boring."
colton's on our minds
Time for Colton Berry, who looks super albino in his recap segment. He also tells us he likes to sing the Teletubbies theme song. Ok, dude. That isn't helping you.
Song: "Suspicious Minds"
Me: OK, first of all Colton is not Elvis. Clearly. Now that we've established that, I don't hate this performance as much as I thought I would. Luckily, he went right after Luke. There's only going up after that. It's surprisingly OK, but hardly flawless. He lacks the uniqueness necessarily to get an edge here, and the song ends up just way to showy.
Randy: "You did a pretty good job on it."
Paula: "It's nice to see a different side of you."
Simon: "It was OK, it wasn't quite as bad as the other Elvis song."
Song: "Suspicious Minds"
Me: OK, first of all Colton is not Elvis. Clearly. Now that we've established that, I don't hate this performance as much as I thought I would. Luckily, he went right after Luke. There's only going up after that. It's surprisingly OK, but hardly flawless. He lacks the uniqueness necessarily to get an edge here, and the song ends up just way to showy.
Randy: "You did a pretty good job on it."
Paula: "It's nice to see a different side of you."
Simon: "It was OK, it wasn't quite as bad as the other Elvis song."
everybody's sleeping, luke
Luke Menard is up. Wow. Does anyone else think he sounded pretty bad during his audition? And I had no idea he was cut during Season 6. And I also had no idea he's married. I am learning so much right now.
Song: "Everybody's Talking"
Me: This is a little weak. It reminds me of "Dawson's Creek," somehow. I'm about ready to fall asleep. Vocals are mediocre, bland even, and the entire performance just kind of turns into a giant blur at some point. No prior air time + boring performance = outta here.
Randy: "It was very pitchy for me all the way through."
Paula: "I hope that you'll be picking better songs."
Simon: "It was forgettable...You fell into the absolute worst trap you could fall into."
Song: "Everybody's Talking"
Me: This is a little weak. It reminds me of "Dawson's Creek," somehow. I'm about ready to fall asleep. Vocals are mediocre, bland even, and the entire performance just kind of turns into a giant blur at some point. No prior air time + boring performance = outta here.
Randy: "It was very pitchy for me all the way through."
Paula: "I hope that you'll be picking better songs."
Simon: "It was forgettable...You fell into the absolute worst trap you could fall into."
danny rocks...with criminal intent
Danny Noriega takes the stage. You can also call him Jessica Alba. Or Jessica Alboy. You know what I mean. He said he wants to bring his swagger and attitude on stage. Oh no.
Song: "Jailhouse Rock"
Me: Wow, surprising song choice. I'm really surprised to see him rock out. And those pants are really tight. The thing is, though, that we're not seeing much from him vocally. He's trying to get by on show value, but it just doesn't go along with his personality. And rather than expanding his fan base, he's just making us confused. Not a good move at this stage in the game. Btw...what was up with the lack of sound at the end of his song?
Randy: "You know how to have a good time."
Paula: "You have one of the most amazing vocals...This was in some ways a safer song that allowed you in some way to just be the performer."
Simon: "I thought the peformance was verging on grotesque."
Song: "Jailhouse Rock"
Me: Wow, surprising song choice. I'm really surprised to see him rock out. And those pants are really tight. The thing is, though, that we're not seeing much from him vocally. He's trying to get by on show value, but it just doesn't go along with his personality. And rather than expanding his fan base, he's just making us confused. Not a good move at this stage in the game. Btw...what was up with the lack of sound at the end of his song?
Randy: "You know how to have a good time."
Paula: "You have one of the most amazing vocals...This was in some ways a safer song that allowed you in some way to just be the performer."
Simon: "I thought the peformance was verging on grotesque."
david archuleta cashes in
Time for
Song: "You Better Shop Around"
Me: It's good, naturally solid, but I don't like it as much I liked, say, David's take on John Mayer we saw earlier this season. I like him on better on the calm, acoustic-type stuff. At times, it seems like he goes overboard showcasing his vocals here. That said, he's a good singer and he'll inevitably hang around a long time. A word of caution, though. Jessica Sierra performed this song in Season 4. Please don't end up on "Celebrity Rehab," David. Seriously.
Randy: "I thought that was really brilliant."
Paula: "I feel it was a very brave and bold choice of song for you."
Simon: "That was by a comfortable mile the best performance of the night."
Song: "You Better Shop Around"
Me: It's good, naturally solid, but I don't like it as much I liked, say, David's take on John Mayer we saw earlier this season. I like him on better on the calm, acoustic-type stuff. At times, it seems like he goes overboard showcasing his vocals here. That said, he's a good singer and he'll inevitably hang around a long time. A word of caution, though. Jessica Sierra performed this song in Season 4. Please don't end up on "Celebrity Rehab," David. Seriously.
Randy: "I thought that was really brilliant."
Paula: "I feel it was a very brave and bold choice of song for you."
Simon: "That was by a comfortable mile the best performance of the night."
robbie: lonely at the top?
Robbie Carrico's up. If you remember, he's the former boy band member who reportedly dated Britney Spears. Tonight, he admits he toured with her.
Song: "One is the Loneliest Number"
Me: It's pretty good, and he does a better job than David Cook of keeping a fairly solid rock vibe throughout. Overall, I like it, with one slight reservation: The song doesn't seem incredibly challenging, so it's hard to label him a standout. This seems like something you'd see in any semi-pro performance.
Randy: "Nice version you did."
Paula: "I think you picked the perfect song for you."
Simon: "It's the only peformance we've seen tonight which has any semblance of making sense."
Song: "One is the Loneliest Number"
Me: It's pretty good, and he does a better job than David Cook of keeping a fairly solid rock vibe throughout. Overall, I like it, with one slight reservation: The song doesn't seem incredibly challenging, so it's hard to label him a standout. This seems like something you'd see in any semi-pro performance.
Randy: "Nice version you did."
Paula: "I think you picked the perfect song for you."
Simon: "It's the only peformance we've seen tonight which has any semblance of making sense."
sun's down for jason?
Time for Jason Yeager, "singing server" who apparently has a (surprisingly old) son. He's like 7 years old or something. Remember, Jason was on "Making the Band." A top 25 finalist.
Song: "Moon River"
Me: Whoa. He's sitting down. The performance is showy, but not really that bad, and I actually kind of like his voice. Still, it's a slow song, and those usually don't have too much staying power with the fans. And it's never a good idea to do a song that a former contestant performed. Anwar Robinson sang "Moon River" in season 4 and, um, look at where he is now. Do you even recognize that name?
Randy: "Make sure you never lose your concentration while you're singing a song like that."
Paula: "I did my first ballet recital to that song."
(Jason inserts a dedication to his grandma. Aww.)
Simon: "I thought it was very cruise ship, the whole performance...You're like a dependable old dog, aren't you?"
Song: "Moon River"
Me: Whoa. He's sitting down. The performance is showy, but not really that bad, and I actually kind of like his voice. Still, it's a slow song, and those usually don't have too much staying power with the fans. And it's never a good idea to do a song that a former contestant performed. Anwar Robinson sang "Moon River" in season 4 and, um, look at where he is now. Do you even recognize that name?
Randy: "Make sure you never lose your concentration while you're singing a song like that."
Paula: "I did my first ballet recital to that song."
(Jason inserts a dedication to his grandma. Aww.)
Simon: "I thought it was very cruise ship, the whole performance...You're like a dependable old dog, aren't you?"
so happy with david?
Wow. Time for some quality time with Colton Berry, who tells us he looks like Ellen Degeneres. That's not a tie-in for his performance, though. It's time for....
David Cook, who has no traumatic back story, but we're reminded that Simon at one point gave him a "no" in Hollywood.
Song: "So Happy Together"
Me: He tries to give this song a rock take, but I think it's a little too showy. It hits some typical traces of pop, making it slightly more forgettable. He rocks out toward the end, which redeems him a bit. Still, I'm not incredibly impressed by his stage presence. He'll have fans, but he'll need to do more if he wants to establish a rocker edge over Michael Johns.
Randy: "You worked it out."
Paula: "It's worthy of great praise. You rocked it."
Simon: "I thought it was good."
David Cook, who has no traumatic back story, but we're reminded that Simon at one point gave him a "no" in Hollywood.
Song: "So Happy Together"
Me: He tries to give this song a rock take, but I think it's a little too showy. It hits some typical traces of pop, making it slightly more forgettable. He rocks out toward the end, which redeems him a bit. Still, I'm not incredibly impressed by his stage presence. He'll have fans, but he'll need to do more if he wants to establish a rocker edge over Michael Johns.
Randy: "You worked it out."
Paula: "It's worthy of great praise. You rocked it."
Simon: "I thought it was good."
chikezie's performance: too yesterday?
Time for Chikezie Eze, who Seacreast reminds us tried out before but didn't make the cut. Sorry, dude. That still doesn't beat family tragedy.
Song: "More Today than Yesterday"
Me: Wow. He is super flat. Awful beginning. Luckily, it picks up in the middle. Still, I'm just not feeling his smooth jazz take on this song. And the orange leisure suit isn't helping things. In all, it's mediocre, but I'd venture to say it's not top 24 quality.
Randy: "It was all right."
Paula: "You've come a long way...You may not know, he's lost a lot of weight."
Simon: "I absolutely hated the whole performance...It was so old-fashioned."
Chikezie intervenes, and quips to Simon, "Who's your stylist? Charlie Chaplin?" Man, I really hate this guy. He continues to get defensive when Simon calls his performance old-fashioned. He might be outta here tomorrow. And half of America still won't be able to pronounce his name.
Song: "More Today than Yesterday"
Me: Wow. He is super flat. Awful beginning. Luckily, it picks up in the middle. Still, I'm just not feeling his smooth jazz take on this song. And the orange leisure suit isn't helping things. In all, it's mediocre, but I'd venture to say it's not top 24 quality.
Randy: "It was all right."
Paula: "You've come a long way...You may not know, he's lost a lot of weight."
Simon: "I absolutely hated the whole performance...It was so old-fashioned."
Chikezie intervenes, and quips to Simon, "Who's your stylist? Charlie Chaplin?" Man, I really hate this guy. He continues to get defensive when Simon calls his performance old-fashioned. He might be outta here tomorrow. And half of America still won't be able to pronounce his name.
no more waiting for david
First contestant of the night: David Hernandez. We learn that he was raised by a single mom and comes from a broken family. Seems like a formula for success. We're also reminded that Simon gave him a "no" in Hollywood.
Song: "Wait til the Midnight Hour"
Me: It's a solid performance, that unfortunately reaches it peak early on. He adds a hint of originality there, but toward the middle it gets a little forgettable. He's not a bad singer, but nervousness hurts him here and despite his vocal charm, he could run the risk of the first-singer curse.
Randy: "I thought you did a really good job...way to start it off."
Paula: "You've got brilliant vocals to rely on."
Simon: "It actually was better than I thought it was going to be...I think you've got to loosen up a bit."
Song: "Wait til the Midnight Hour"
Me: It's a solid performance, that unfortunately reaches it peak early on. He adds a hint of originality there, but toward the middle it gets a little forgettable. He's not a bad singer, but nervousness hurts him here and despite his vocal charm, he could run the risk of the first-singer curse.
Randy: "I thought you did a really good job...way to start it off."
Paula: "You've got brilliant vocals to rely on."
Simon: "It actually was better than I thought it was going to be...I think you've got to loosen up a bit."
nothing yet
Semifinal time! Seacrest just revealed the "new stage." It pretty much looks like last year's, but with a few more neon blue lights.
Judge introductions...blah, blah, blah. Let's get this party started.
Or not. Do we really need a recap of the auditions? No, no, no, no, no. And what's up with the Blake Lewis music in the background? I miss him.
And commercial break. This is exactly why this show lasts 90 minutes.
Judge introductions...blah, blah, blah. Let's get this party started.
Or not. Do we really need a recap of the auditions? No, no, no, no, no. And what's up with the Blake Lewis music in the background? I miss him.
And commercial break. This is exactly why this show lasts 90 minutes.
let's hear it for the boys
Hey guys...
Reminder: The semifinal round starts TONIGHT at 8 p.m. on Fox. The 12 remaining guys will perform. There's a '60s theme.
You can vote at the end of the show.
Girls perform Wednesday, two singers -- one male, one female -- will be eliminated Thursday.
As usual, I'll be blogging live, so be sure to check in for minute-by-minute updates during the show.
I'll have the remaining contestants' profiles done tomorrow, I promise!
Reminder: The semifinal round starts TONIGHT at 8 p.m. on Fox. The 12 remaining guys will perform. There's a '60s theme.
You can vote at the end of the show.
Girls perform Wednesday, two singers -- one male, one female -- will be eliminated Thursday.
As usual, I'll be blogging live, so be sure to check in for minute-by-minute updates during the show.
I'll have the remaining contestants' profiles done tomorrow, I promise!
colton berry: huh?
Name: Colton Berry
Age: 18
Audition city: Charleston
Definining characteristics: Unfortunately, at this point he's known primarily as the weird albino kid who was inexplicably chosen over cute nerdy Kyle for a spot in the final 24. And Simon wasn't afraid to tell him he was opposed to the decision.
Skeletons in the closet: On the official AI Web site, he lists his favorite quote as, "Hey, girl, hey." 'Nuff said.
Sounds like: Jim Verraros?
Chances of winning: Probably slim, unless he's somehow able to make a fan out of Simon
chikezie eze: more than a weird name?
Name: Chikezie Eze
Age: 22
Audition city: San Diego
Distinguishing characteristic: He tried out in Season 6, but apparently botched his audition. He came back this season and (kind of) wowed the judges with his take on Luther Vandross.
Skeletons in the closet: None, aside from the fact that on the official AI Web site, he recently changed his name to just plain Chikezie, following the footsteps of one-named contestants from seasons past, like Mandisa.
Sounds like: George Huff meets Anwar Robinson
Chances of winning: Slim. Comparatively, he's a little forgettable, and still doesn't seem to have all the judges on his side.
Monday, February 18, 2008
carly smithson: pro with a past
Name: Carly Smithson
Age: 24
Audition city: San Diego
Distinguishing characteristics: This Irish songstress was dismissed from the competition in an earlier season because she didn't have an American visa. She's really known for her professional past, though. Keep reading.
Skeleton in the closet: A few years ago, MCA Records spent about $2 million on her, only to watch her album flop completely
Sounds like: A female take on U2's Bono
Chances of winning: Vocally, she's strong. The question, however, is whether viewers will perceive her professional past as an unwelcome departure from AI's usual hard-luck tales -- especially since that past hasn't yet been disclosed on TV.
brooke white: pure voice, literally
Name: Brooke White
Age: 24
Audition city: Philadelphia
Distinguishing characteristics: She's a solid singer and good piano player, but her air time has depicted her mainly as a hot nanny who's never seen an R-rated movie. Neither has her husband, Brooke said during her audition.
Skeletons in the closet: She might be pure, but Brooke's hardly a virgin to the music world. She reportedly opened for Phil Vassar, as illustrated by this evidence.
Sounds like: She hits a Carly Simon rock vibe that we haven't really heard on AI before
Chance of winning: Moderate -- while she's already established a solid identity as a '70s-inspired rocker, her versatility remains in question. Can she sing, say, motown? We'll see.
asia'h epperson: sob story and more
Name: Asia'h Epperson
Age: 19
Audition city: Atlanta
Distinguishing characteristic: Her dad died shortly after she told him she was on her way to the "Idol" audition
Skeletons in the closet: None yet, unless her sob story is a lie. Which would make her a very, very evil person.
Sounds like: Tamyra Gray meets Melinda Doolittle
Chance of winning: Pretty solid, assuming she learns to define herself musically beyond the personal tragedy that's characterized her air time so far
Friday, February 15, 2008
tgif
As you can tell, I didn't get as far on the bios as I'd intended. My bad. They'll be wrapped up by the first round of semifinals Tuesday, though. I guarantee.
In the meantime, have a great weekend and don't forget to admire the hot new banner on the top of this blog. A labor of love by my talented boss, Dawn Minty, it features all the remaining 24 contestants. Hot.
Have a great weekend!
In the meantime, have a great weekend and don't forget to admire the hot new banner on the top of this blog. A labor of love by my talented boss, Dawn Minty, it features all the remaining 24 contestants. Hot.
Have a great weekend!
amy davis: swimmingly talented?
Name: Amy Davis
Age: 25
Audition city: Dallas
Distinguishing characteristics: A pretty solid voice, not to mention a body -- enhanced by a revealing audition shirt -- that has since become the topic of plenty of Internet message board forums.
Skeletons in the closet: She's no Antonella Barba, fortunately, but Davis does have some pretty extensive experience as a swimsuit model. See her portfolio here. She also sang in a band with two members of Survivor, and was a second-round qualifier for "Nashville Star," according the bio she wrote for this site. Ironically, she cited a down-and-out financial situation when the AI cameras were on her at auditions.
Sounds like: Katharine McPhee laced with a couple shots of Haley Scarnato's body
Chances of winning: She's more than a pretty face, but hasn't received enough camera time to earn a spot as one of this season's top contenders. She'll get hotness votes, for sure, but anything beyond that is up in the air.
amanda overmyer: token rocker grrl
Name: Amanda Overmyer
Age: 23
Audition city: Atlanta
Distinguishing characteristics: She's a biker nurse who's known to pull out a pretty mean take on Janis Joplin.
Skeletons in the closet: None yet...she seems like one of the few contestants who hasn't dabbled much in the professional world.
Sounds like: Every season's token rocker chick -- think Nikki McKibbin and Gina Glocksen
Chances of winning: With the exception of McKibbin, whose third-place finish was widely criticized as a undeserved fluke, most rocker grrls don't advance too far. Still, Overmyer has promise, and a camera-friendly attitude that's likely to hook a solid base of fans.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
alexandrea lushington: secret weapon?
Name: Alexandrea Lushington
Age: 16
Audition city: Atlanta
Distinguishing characteristics: While we've gotten a few from-the-distance glimpses of this teen's eclectic fashion sense, she's had relatively little air time. We saw her perform "My Funny Valentine" during her Atlanta audition, though, and the judges loved it.
Skeletons in the closet: The fact that she actually took the time to speak with me in August!Yep, this is the one AI hopeful I've actually met. I interviewed her when I covered the Atlanta auditions, after learning from this DJ that she won a fast pass from Atlanta radio station Star 94. Former finalist Mandisa also had that fast pass when she auditioned.
Sounds like: Tamyra Gray meets Melinda Doolittle, minus all images of Shrek
Chances of winning: Vocally, she's solid, but her lack of air time thus far suggests she might not be a producer favorite. I'm hoping she has a good chance, though.
alaina whitaker: underwood junior
Name: Alaina Whitaker
Age: 16
Audition city: Dallas
Distinguishing characteristics: Her more-than-mild resemblance to champ Carrie Underwood. Physically, it's nearly uncanny, but vocals might be a different story. During her initial audition, she Carrie has been compared to her, not vice versa. She sang some Faith Hill and got a three-way yes, but Simon cautioned she's not as good as she thinks she is.
Skeletons in the closet: None yet, unless you count her admission here that she's the captain of her school's "prom squad."
Sounds like: Carrie Underwood spiked with a few shots of Kellie Pickler and Jordin Sparks
Odds of winning: Iffy. Fans will likely have to sort out some ego issues, and wait for her to decide if she's an all-country singer. Make that a unique all-country singer.
a brief refresher
Barring any major breaking news on the AI front, my next block of posts will be profiles of the 24 remaining contestants. I'm aiming to have everybody up here by the end of the day Friday. You'll get a pic of the singer, plus info in these categories:
-Audition city:
-Distinguishing characteristics:
-Skeletons in the closet:
-Sounds like:
-Odds of winning:
Get ready to read and learn!
-Audition city:
-Distinguishing characteristics:
-Skeletons in the closet:
-Sounds like:
-Odds of winning:
Get ready to read and learn!
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
some on-the-spot insights
Not too many shockers tonight. With the possible exception of Josiah's no, we got a top 24 that's almost exactly consistent with the back stories the producers pushed on us all season.
If I had to name a surprise, I'd say the fact that (and kinda-albino) Colton Berry got the yes over presidential hopeful Kyle. And I guess there are some unknowns among the pack of 24. Garrett Haley? Jason Yeager? Luke Menard? Dreadlocked Jason Castro? Never heard of 'em.
Still, the fact that only about four of 24 contestants haven't received adequate back story air time is pretty impressive. And as many other bloggers have pointed out, there's isn't an obvious weakest link as we've seen in seasons past.
Tomorrow, I'll be back with an analysis of each of the semifinalists, complete with pictures, gossip and odds of winning.
In the meantime, I want to know what you think. Are you happy with the top 24? Was it too predictable? Any major upsets?
If I had to name a surprise, I'd say the fact that (and kinda-albino) Colton Berry got the yes over presidential hopeful Kyle. And I guess there are some unknowns among the pack of 24. Garrett Haley? Jason Yeager? Luke Menard? Dreadlocked Jason Castro? Never heard of 'em.
Still, the fact that only about four of 24 contestants haven't received adequate back story air time is pretty impressive. And as many other bloggers have pointed out, there's isn't an obvious weakest link as we've seen in seasons past.
Tomorrow, I'll be back with an analysis of each of the semifinalists, complete with pictures, gossip and odds of winning.
In the meantime, I want to know what you think. Are you happy with the top 24? Was it too predictable? Any major upsets?
here they are
With the obligatory corny dance sequences, we get a recap of the top 24. Here they are:
Joanne Borgella
Colton Berry
David Hernandez
Garrett Haley
Kady Malloy
Amy Davis
Alaina Whitaker
Jason Yeager
Chikeze Eze
Asia'h Epperson
Michael Johns
Syesha Mercado
Robbie Carrico
Carly Smithson
David Cook
Amanda Overmyer
David Archuleta
Ramiele Malubay
Jason Castro
Alexandrea Lushington
Luke Menard
Brooke White
Kristy Lee Cook
Danny Noriega
Joanne Borgella
Colton Berry
David Hernandez
Garrett Haley
Kady Malloy
Amy Davis
Alaina Whitaker
Jason Yeager
Chikeze Eze
Asia'h Epperson
Michael Johns
Syesha Mercado
Robbie Carrico
Carly Smithson
David Cook
Amanda Overmyer
David Archuleta
Ramiele Malubay
Jason Castro
Alexandrea Lushington
Luke Menard
Brooke White
Kristy Lee Cook
Danny Noriega
and now there are 24
8:54 Four contestants remain, they're doing them in twos. One will get a yes, one will get a no. Ouch. Embarrassing.
8:54 First up: presidential hopeful Kyle approaches the judges with Colton Berry. In what's kind of a surprise, Colton gets the yes. Simon admits that he "wholeheartedly" disagrees with the decision. He even throws in a "completely and utterly." Wow. I guess I kind of agree. Who is this Colton guy, anyway? Randy says, "So you guys should both feel good about where you are." Um, how exactly does that work?
Does anyone else think Simon has a man crush on Kyle? And Colton is kind of albino.
8:58 Now it's time for the girls -- Joanne Borgella and Cardin Lee McKinney. Cardin's originally from Huntsville, Joanne is a former champion of Mo'Nique's Fat Chance. I know how this is going to turn out. Supporting my assertion, Cardin even admits she didn't do herself justice in Hollywood. Joanne complains about never getting a chance. Two words: Fat Chance.
Joanne's in!
And we're done!
Semifinal count: 24
Contestants: Joanne Borgella, Colton Berry, David Hernandez, Garrett Haley, Kady Malloy, Amy Davis, Alaina Whitaker, Jason Yeager, Chikeze Eze, Asia'h Epperson, Michael Johns, Syesha Mercado, Robbie Carrico, Carly Smithson, David Cook, Amanda Overmyer, David Archuleta, Ramiele Malubay, Jason Castro, Alexandrea Lushington, Luke Menard, Brooke White, Kristy Lee Cook, Danny Noriega
8:54 First up: presidential hopeful Kyle approaches the judges with Colton Berry. In what's kind of a surprise, Colton gets the yes. Simon admits that he "wholeheartedly" disagrees with the decision. He even throws in a "completely and utterly." Wow. I guess I kind of agree. Who is this Colton guy, anyway? Randy says, "So you guys should both feel good about where you are." Um, how exactly does that work?
Does anyone else think Simon has a man crush on Kyle? And Colton is kind of albino.
8:58 Now it's time for the girls -- Joanne Borgella and Cardin Lee McKinney. Cardin's originally from Huntsville, Joanne is a former champion of Mo'Nique's Fat Chance. I know how this is going to turn out. Supporting my assertion, Cardin even admits she didn't do herself justice in Hollywood. Joanne complains about never getting a chance. Two words: Fat Chance.
Joanne's in!
And we're done!
Semifinal count: 24
Contestants: Joanne Borgella, Colton Berry, David Hernandez, Garrett Haley, Kady Malloy, Amy Davis, Alaina Whitaker, Jason Yeager, Chikeze Eze, Asia'h Epperson, Michael Johns, Syesha Mercado, Robbie Carrico, Carly Smithson, David Cook, Amanda Overmyer, David Archuleta, Ramiele Malubay, Jason Castro, Alexandrea Lushington, Luke Menard, Brooke White, Kristy Lee Cook, Danny Noriega
two more to go!
8:43 Garrett Haley, Kady Malloy, Amy Davis, Alaina Whitaker, Jason Yeager and Chikeze Eze all get a yes.
8:44 Asia'h Epperson is up. She's the girl whose dad died the day before her audition. I give her a big yes. She's in!
8:45 David Hernandez is up. He's that really good guy that they showed for the first time ever last night. And it's a yes! But Simon admits he didn't give him a yes, in fact with some pretty harsh criticism.
8:46 Josiah is up. You can also call him a crybaby. I hate him so much, mainly because he probably doesn't really even live in his car. Confidently, he says he thinks they'll put him through. I hope not! Again, I really hate this guy. OK, get to the point. And it's a no! I've never been happier in my entire life. He totally could have been the next Sanjaya, though. Ryan notes that he "sacrificed so much to be here." Um, he allegedly lives in his car. What did he sacrifice? Gas? Radio reception?
Semifinal count: 22
Contestants: David Hernandez, Garrett Haley, Kady Malloy, Amy Davis, Alaina Whitaker, Jason Yeager, Chikeze Eze, Asia'h Epperson, Michael Johns, Syesha Mercado, Robbie Carrico, Carly Smithson, David Cook, Amanda Overmyer, David Archuleta, Ramiele Malubay, Jason Castro, Alexandrea Lushington, Luke Menard, Brooke White, Kristy Lee Cook, Danny Noriega
8:44 Asia'h Epperson is up. She's the girl whose dad died the day before her audition. I give her a big yes. She's in!
8:45 David Hernandez is up. He's that really good guy that they showed for the first time ever last night. And it's a yes! But Simon admits he didn't give him a yes, in fact with some pretty harsh criticism.
8:46 Josiah is up. You can also call him a crybaby. I hate him so much, mainly because he probably doesn't really even live in his car. Confidently, he says he thinks they'll put him through. I hope not! Again, I really hate this guy. OK, get to the point. And it's a no! I've never been happier in my entire life. He totally could have been the next Sanjaya, though. Ryan notes that he "sacrificed so much to be here." Um, he allegedly lives in his car. What did he sacrifice? Gas? Radio reception?
Semifinal count: 22
Contestants: David Hernandez, Garrett Haley, Kady Malloy, Amy Davis, Alaina Whitaker, Jason Yeager, Chikeze Eze, Asia'h Epperson, Michael Johns, Syesha Mercado, Robbie Carrico, Carly Smithson, David Cook, Amanda Overmyer, David Archuleta, Ramiele Malubay, Jason Castro, Alexandrea Lushington, Luke Menard, Brooke White, Kristy Lee Cook, Danny Noriega
14 singers are semifinals-bound
8:33 Chain of no's, none of which go to extremely memorable singers
8:34 Hot Australian/former Atlanta band member Michael Johns is up. I say a big yes, and I'm fairly confident. He's in!
8:36 Time for Syesha Mercado, a former contestant on the failed ABC reality TV singing competition, "The One." She should get the judges' OK. Wow, Paula does a really bad reveal by pointing to the "yes" in Syesha's name. How much do you want to bet that's the only word Paula can spell? Anyway, she gets a yes.
8:37 It's Robbie Carrico, the former boy band member who dated Britney Spears. He'll be OK. And I'm right! He's in.
Semifinal count: 14
Contestants: Michael Johns, Syesha Mercado, Robbie Carrico, Carly Smithson, David Cook, Amanda Overmyer, David Archuleta, Ramiele Malubay, Jason Castro, Alexandrea Lushington, Luke Menard, Brooke White, Kristy Lee Cook, Danny Noriega
8:34 Hot Australian/former Atlanta band member Michael Johns is up. I say a big yes, and I'm fairly confident. He's in!
8:36 Time for Syesha Mercado, a former contestant on the failed ABC reality TV singing competition, "The One." She should get the judges' OK. Wow, Paula does a really bad reveal by pointing to the "yes" in Syesha's name. How much do you want to bet that's the only word Paula can spell? Anyway, she gets a yes.
8:37 It's Robbie Carrico, the former boy band member who dated Britney Spears. He'll be OK. And I'm right! He's in.
Semifinal count: 14
Contestants: Michael Johns, Syesha Mercado, Robbie Carrico, Carly Smithson, David Cook, Amanda Overmyer, David Archuleta, Ramiele Malubay, Jason Castro, Alexandrea Lushington, Luke Menard, Brooke White, Kristy Lee Cook, Danny Noriega
11 singers semifinals-bound
8:22 Time for Kristy Lee Cook, the singer who once had a deal with Arista Nashville. I predict a big yes. This seems like a guaranteed recipe for success. And it's a yes!
8:24 Brooke White is up. She's the hot nanny who's never seen an R-rated movie. She's also released a CD before. Anyway, recap footage shows she stumbled while playing the piano in Hollywood, but we didn't see that part yesterday. She enters the judgment room crying. Wow. It seems like SOMEONE needs to make some G-rated love with Josiah.
Put her out of her misery, judges. I say they give her the OK.
It's a yes! Note how she just kind of denied Paula's hug.
8:26 Danny Noriega's up. He's the skinny kid with a big voice. And it's a yes.
8:27 Yes for Jason Castro, Alexandrea Lushington and some guy named Luke Menard we've never even seen before. What's up with the dreadlocks, Jason?
8:28 Time for Ramiele Malubay. I say yes. She's the little asian girl who wants to be the next Jasmine Trias. And she's in!
Semifinalist count: 11
Contestants: Carly Smithson, David Cook, Amanda Overmyer, David Archuleta, Ramiele Malubay, Jason Castro, Alexandrea Lushington, Luke Menard, Brooke White, Kristy Lee Cook, Danny Noriega
8:24 Brooke White is up. She's the hot nanny who's never seen an R-rated movie. She's also released a CD before. Anyway, recap footage shows she stumbled while playing the piano in Hollywood, but we didn't see that part yesterday. She enters the judgment room crying. Wow. It seems like SOMEONE needs to make some G-rated love with Josiah.
Put her out of her misery, judges. I say they give her the OK.
It's a yes! Note how she just kind of denied Paula's hug.
8:26 Danny Noriega's up. He's the skinny kid with a big voice. And it's a yes.
8:27 Yes for Jason Castro, Alexandrea Lushington and some guy named Luke Menard we've never even seen before. What's up with the dreadlocks, Jason?
8:28 Time for Ramiele Malubay. I say yes. She's the little asian girl who wants to be the next Jasmine Trias. And she's in!
Semifinalist count: 11
Contestants: Carly Smithson, David Cook, Amanda Overmyer, David Archuleta, Ramiele Malubay, Jason Castro, Alexandrea Lushington, Luke Menard, Brooke White, Kristy Lee Cook, Danny Noriega
four down, 20 to go
8:13 Time for David Cook, the Daughtry wannabe. I don't like him very much, especially with the pink tie and grey vest he's wearing right now. Anyway, he's in, with relatively little fanfare from the judges. He says, "Now I don't have to get a job." Um, don't speak too quickly, dude.
8:15 Time for Amanda Overmyer, the biker nurse who producers have pegged this season's token rocker grrrl. She gets a yes, and meets it with a surprisingly cool reception.
8:15 Three no's for contestant's we've never really seen before.
8:16 David Archuleta's up. Star Search winner who suffered a paralyzed vocal chord. This seems like a pretty obvious yes. Simon plays it cool, but I'm sticking to my guns. And I'm right. He's in!
Semifinal count: 4
Contestants: Carly Smithson, David Cook, Amanda Overmyer, David Archuleta
8:15 Time for Amanda Overmyer, the biker nurse who producers have pegged this season's token rocker grrrl. She gets a yes, and meets it with a surprisingly cool reception.
8:15 Three no's for contestant's we've never really seen before.
8:16 David Archuleta's up. Star Search winner who suffered a paralyzed vocal chord. This seems like a pretty obvious yes. Simon plays it cool, but I'm sticking to my guns. And I'm right. He's in!
Semifinal count: 4
Contestants: Carly Smithson, David Cook, Amanda Overmyer, David Archuleta
carly's in!
8:01 Wow. What did you guys think of that weird intro with Ryan in an Egypt-inspired set? Why wasn’t there a blatant plug for Coca-Cola or something?
8:02 Judges are deliberating.
8:03 Seacrest reminds us of the walk of shame/fame. He loves watching people cry. And cleaning up their tears with his blue tongue.
8:04 First contestant of the night, Ronald Hodge. I say a big no. We’ve never even seen this guy before. And I’m right! Sorry, Ronnie. You’re outta here. As Seacrest quips, “Our first one in is the first one out.” Everyone’s pretending to be sad but clearly, they’ve never seen him, either.
8:05 No’s for Nina and Lisa, both of whom we’ve never seen before.
8:06 It’s time for Carly Smithson’s turn to shine. The producers, of course, are pushing her hard-core. Conveniently, we also get a recap of her blue tongue. OK, she’s in front of the judges. Paula mumbles incoherently. Give up the act. Paula’s ready to cut to the chase. And she’s in! She enters the contestant room to a round of applause. How much of that do you think is fake?
Semifinal count: 1
Contestants: Carly Smithson
8:02 Judges are deliberating.
8:03 Seacrest reminds us of the walk of shame/fame. He loves watching people cry. And cleaning up their tears with his blue tongue.
8:04 First contestant of the night, Ronald Hodge. I say a big no. We’ve never even seen this guy before. And I’m right! Sorry, Ronnie. You’re outta here. As Seacrest quips, “Our first one in is the first one out.” Everyone’s pretending to be sad but clearly, they’ve never seen him, either.
8:05 No’s for Nina and Lisa, both of whom we’ve never seen before.
8:06 It’s time for Carly Smithson’s turn to shine. The producers, of course, are pushing her hard-core. Conveniently, we also get a recap of her blue tongue. OK, she’s in front of the judges. Paula mumbles incoherently. Give up the act. Paula’s ready to cut to the chase. And she’s in! She enters the contestant room to a round of applause. How much of that do you think is fake?
Semifinal count: 1
Contestants: Carly Smithson
and then there were (almost) 24
Just under two hours remain until tonight's AI, which of course will reveal this season's top 24 contestants!
Woo hoo!
Will Irish songstress Carly Smithson get the OK, despite her failed run with MCA Records?
Will the fact that Josiah lives in a car be enough to redeem his embarrassing display of tears Tuesday?
Will there be more inexplicable blue tongues?
Get the answers to those questions and more when I blog tonight's episode live beginning at 8 p.m. See you soon!
Woo hoo!
Will Irish songstress Carly Smithson get the OK, despite her failed run with MCA Records?
Will the fact that Josiah lives in a car be enough to redeem his embarrassing display of tears Tuesday?
Will there be more inexplicable blue tongues?
Get the answers to those questions and more when I blog tonight's episode live beginning at 8 p.m. See you soon!
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
recap: question of the night
What was up with all the blue tongues?
My guess is it's from some kind of throat lozenge available for contestants. But I'm willing to take any other suggestions you might offer, especially those involving diseases transmitted orally by latin lover Ghaleb. Eww.
Anyway, it was a good show overall, if not a bit long. There weren't too many surprises, either, with the exception of Josiah's OK and a no for Angela, who enhanced her back story appeal by adding that her dad was killed. We already knew she's a single mother whose daughter has a rare disease.
Surprisingly, we didn't even see a bunch of the top contenders, like Alexandrea Lushington of Atlanta, who presumably is still in the running. That said, we're left with lots of singers primed to occupy the top 24, such as:
-Failed MCA Irish songstress Carly Smithson
-Pure nanny Brooke White
-Australian hottie Michael Johns
-Sob story queen Asia'h Epperson, whose dad died shortly after she told him she was auditioning for AI
-Former Star Search winner -- and a victim of a paralyzed vocal chord -- David Archuleta
So what do you think? Who was your favorite singer tonight? Who was the biggest disappointment? And are you going to watch tomorrow?
My guess is it's from some kind of throat lozenge available for contestants. But I'm willing to take any other suggestions you might offer, especially those involving diseases transmitted orally by latin lover Ghaleb. Eww.
Anyway, it was a good show overall, if not a bit long. There weren't too many surprises, either, with the exception of Josiah's OK and a no for Angela, who enhanced her back story appeal by adding that her dad was killed. We already knew she's a single mother whose daughter has a rare disease.
Surprisingly, we didn't even see a bunch of the top contenders, like Alexandrea Lushington of Atlanta, who presumably is still in the running. That said, we're left with lots of singers primed to occupy the top 24, such as:
-Failed MCA Irish songstress Carly Smithson
-Pure nanny Brooke White
-Australian hottie Michael Johns
-Sob story queen Asia'h Epperson, whose dad died shortly after she told him she was auditioning for AI
-Former Star Search winner -- and a victim of a paralyzed vocal chord -- David Archuleta
So what do you think? Who was your favorite singer tonight? Who was the biggest disappointment? And are you going to watch tomorrow?
hollywood's not america
9:55 Debut of the new farewell song. I kind of like it. It probably would be better if it wasn't accompanied by a montage of stuff we've spent the past 2 hours watching, though.
9:57 The judges are deliberating over the top 24, which will be revealed tomorrow. We have no idea what they're talking about. They are such teases.
9:58 And we're done! Preview of tomorrow's results. I am soooo excited right now.
9:57 The judges are deliberating over the top 24, which will be revealed tomorrow. We have no idea what they're talking about. They are such teases.
9:58 And we're done! Preview of tomorrow's results. I am soooo excited right now.
worst contestant EVER
9:37 Spotlight on Carly Smithson, formerly Carly Hennessy. Remember, she had a mega MCA deal, but failed to get a fan following. In less important news, she's also allergic to her dog. She sings "Alone," which is probably my favorite song in the world, but it's not as good as Carrie Underwood's version. Actually, I still kind of hate Carly because of her industry past. Inevitable three-way yes, though.
9:41 Three-way OK for Asia'h Epperson, the girl whose dad died shortly after she told him she was on her way to auditions.
9:42 Brooke, the Florida beauty queen, takes the stage. She's actually not that bad. Time out. She just blew the high note on "Unchained Melody." No from Randy, yes from Simon, no from Paula. She's out! Yes! Thank you, Paula! Brooke: "I just wish I was given a second chance, like everybody else." Um, that's not really true. At all.
9:44 Time for Josiah, the guy who lives in his car. He's freaking out and I kind of like it. Man tears are hot. He takes the stage, apparently with only two hours of sleep, and asks to perform without the band. Why does he even get to do that? I really hate this guy.
He sings a really weird version of "Stand by Me," and it's not pretty. Um, backup singers exist for a reason.
The judges don't like it. Paula: "Sometimes, we just make the wrong choices." Simon says he's being annoying.
Josiah starts crying again. Yes from Paula, Randy AND Simon. Wow, this is this could be the contestant I hate the most in my entire history of watching AI. Why do they even like him?
9:41 Three-way OK for Asia'h Epperson, the girl whose dad died shortly after she told him she was on her way to auditions.
9:42 Brooke, the Florida beauty queen, takes the stage. She's actually not that bad. Time out. She just blew the high note on "Unchained Melody." No from Randy, yes from Simon, no from Paula. She's out! Yes! Thank you, Paula! Brooke: "I just wish I was given a second chance, like everybody else." Um, that's not really true. At all.
9:44 Time for Josiah, the guy who lives in his car. He's freaking out and I kind of like it. Man tears are hot. He takes the stage, apparently with only two hours of sleep, and asks to perform without the band. Why does he even get to do that? I really hate this guy.
He sings a really weird version of "Stand by Me," and it's not pretty. Um, backup singers exist for a reason.
The judges don't like it. Paula: "Sometimes, we just make the wrong choices." Simon says he's being annoying.
Josiah starts crying again. Yes from Paula, Randy AND Simon. Wow, this is this could be the contestant I hate the most in my entire history of watching AI. Why do they even like him?
judges are feeling good
9:21 OK, final day of auditions. The contestants sing with the band and a new element -- backup singers. Cool.
9:23 Spotlight on David Archuleta, the guy with the paralyzed vocal chord. He's also one of this season's spoiler top 24. This should go well. He sings "Heaven," by Bryan Adams and it's pretty solid. He kind of sounds like Elliot Yamin. Am I right?
Randy calls it the best of Hollywood Week so far, and Paula and Simon are equally ecstatic. Three OK's.
9:26 Time for Kyle, the wannabe president. He sings "You Raise Me Up" and it's decent, surprisingly. Simon apologizes for his walkout the other day. Aww. Three-way yes.
9:27 Back to Jeffry Lampkin, who channels his inner Ruben Studdard but blows his rendition of "A Whole New World." Joey Catalano, meanwhile, also gets a no.
9:28 Now it's Syesha, the girl from "The One." But she's a spoiler 24 so I think she'll do well, despite her alleged cold. She sings "Chain of Fools," and I just noticed she has some killer legs. The judges love it, and Paula even calls it a performance of a lifetime. Three-way yes.
9:31 Michael Johns, the Australian guy, takes the stage. He used to be in a band in Atlanta, fyi. He sings "Bohemian Rhapsody," and suddenly reminds me of Constantine. He's pretty good. Simon calls it the best audition of the day. Another three-way yes.
9:23 Spotlight on David Archuleta, the guy with the paralyzed vocal chord. He's also one of this season's spoiler top 24. This should go well. He sings "Heaven," by Bryan Adams and it's pretty solid. He kind of sounds like Elliot Yamin. Am I right?
Randy calls it the best of Hollywood Week so far, and Paula and Simon are equally ecstatic. Three OK's.
9:26 Time for Kyle, the wannabe president. He sings "You Raise Me Up" and it's decent, surprisingly. Simon apologizes for his walkout the other day. Aww. Three-way yes.
9:27 Back to Jeffry Lampkin, who channels his inner Ruben Studdard but blows his rendition of "A Whole New World." Joey Catalano, meanwhile, also gets a no.
9:28 Now it's Syesha, the girl from "The One." But she's a spoiler 24 so I think she'll do well, despite her alleged cold. She sings "Chain of Fools," and I just noticed she has some killer legs. The judges love it, and Paula even calls it a performance of a lifetime. Three-way yes.
9:31 Michael Johns, the Australian guy, takes the stage. He used to be in a band in Atlanta, fyi. He sings "Bohemian Rhapsody," and suddenly reminds me of Constantine. He's pretty good. Simon calls it the best audition of the day. Another three-way yes.
don't stop believing, angela
9:09 The cuts continue. I can't even really tell who's being eliminated. We do see some major sobbing for Kayla, the girl in the major car accident, and Angelica, who auditioned to impress her dad.
9:11 Here's Kristy Lee Cook, who apparently didn't get the OK on the first day. Jeffrey Lampkin his here, too...the guy who auditioned with his sister. The sister, apparently, already got a no. And here's Angela, the single mom whose daughter has a major disease. Whoa! And now her dad was killed, too. Incredible.
No for Angela, but yes for Jeffrey, Kristy Lee and yes, presidential hopeful Kyle's in the background, too.
9:11 Here's Kristy Lee Cook, who apparently didn't get the OK on the first day. Jeffrey Lampkin his here, too...the guy who auditioned with his sister. The sister, apparently, already got a no. And here's Angela, the single mom whose daughter has a major disease. Whoa! And now her dad was killed, too. Incredible.
No for Angela, but yes for Jeffrey, Kristy Lee and yes, presidential hopeful Kyle's in the background, too.
abstain this
8:58 Wow. The remaining contestants sing a cappella briefly, and then the judges give their verdicts. This is getting confusing. But there's still time for a sob stories about some single parents.
8:59 Single dad Perrie performs, along with Suzanne, who's a single mom. We don't hear anybody else in their line. The judges give their verdicts, and it's of the road for Perrie and Suzanne. Bye.
9:01 Back to Amy Flynn, the abstinence girl who brought her vocal coach to the audition. The coach is apparently a former AI wannabe...who didn't make it on the show. Um yeah, this is going to go well. And the vocal coach is tough, too. She won't even let her eat french toast. Amy takes the stage, singing "Love Will Bring You Back." Oops. She gets a no. Back to abstinence, baby.
9:04 Cuts continue. Apparently only four of 40 a cappella singers have gotten the OK.
8:59 Single dad Perrie performs, along with Suzanne, who's a single mom. We don't hear anybody else in their line. The judges give their verdicts, and it's of the road for Perrie and Suzanne. Bye.
9:01 Back to Amy Flynn, the abstinence girl who brought her vocal coach to the audition. The coach is apparently a former AI wannabe...who didn't make it on the show. Um yeah, this is going to go well. And the vocal coach is tough, too. She won't even let her eat french toast. Amy takes the stage, singing "Love Will Bring You Back." Oops. She gets a no. Back to abstinence, baby.
9:04 Cuts continue. Apparently only four of 40 a cappella singers have gotten the OK.
the good, the bad, the corny
8:46 Time for David Cook, the guy you might remember as a major Daughtry wannabe. He takes the stage with a guitar and I'm not really that impressed. It's actually a little forgettable. Also, why does everybody have a blue tongue?
Randy and Paula like it, but Simon says he wasn't crazy about it. I agree. Randy and Paula say yes, but Simon sticks to his no
8:48 It's Robbie Carrico, the guy who used to date Britney Spears. And Jessica Brown, the girl from rehab. And Syesha Mercado, the girl who was on "The One." And Perrie Cataldo, the single dad.
The judges are critical of Perrie, Syesha and Jessica. The others get the OK.
8:50 Whoa! It's Kyle, that nerdy guy who wants to run for president. I like him, but he's not an incredibly stellar vocalist. Paula says he's a little corny, Simon calls him abysmal. Paula is ambivalent with her final verdict, while Simon storms out of the room.
Randy and Paula like it, but Simon says he wasn't crazy about it. I agree. Randy and Paula say yes, but Simon sticks to his no
8:48 It's Robbie Carrico, the guy who used to date Britney Spears. And Jessica Brown, the girl from rehab. And Syesha Mercado, the girl who was on "The One." And Perrie Cataldo, the single dad.
The judges are critical of Perrie, Syesha and Jessica. The others get the OK.
8:50 Whoa! It's Kyle, that nerdy guy who wants to run for president. I like him, but he's not an incredibly stellar vocalist. Paula says he's a little corny, Simon calls him abysmal. Paula is ambivalent with her final verdict, while Simon storms out of the room.
five stellar reviews
8:36 OK, day two of Hollywood. Apparently 80 contestants are taking the stage. I don't get these numbers. Whatever.
8:37 Time for Josiah, the guy who lives in his car. Remember, he sings with a British accent...even though he's from Tennessee. Anyway, he performs with a keyboard. How does he even fit that in his car?
Anyway, he sounds OK, but the whole thing is a little over the top, and I'm sick of the British accent. Plus, I think he's faking his homelessness.
The judges love him, though...Simon even calls it the audition he'll remember most. Three OK's.
8:39 We see Danny Noriega, Ramiele, Carly Hennessey and Matt Johns. Wow...four singers spoilers name in the top 24. They all get a three-way yes. And some larger than life praise for blue-tongued Carly Hennessy.
8:37 Time for Josiah, the guy who lives in his car. Remember, he sings with a British accent...even though he's from Tennessee. Anyway, he performs with a keyboard. How does he even fit that in his car?
Anyway, he sounds OK, but the whole thing is a little over the top, and I'm sick of the British accent. Plus, I think he's faking his homelessness.
The judges love him, though...Simon even calls it the audition he'll remember most. Three OK's.
8:39 We see Danny Noriega, Ramiele, Carly Hennessey and Matt Johns. Wow...four singers spoilers name in the top 24. They all get a three-way yes. And some larger than life praise for blue-tongued Carly Hennessy.
amanda rocks, ghaleb necesita ayuda
8:23 Time for Amanda. Remember, she's the biker nurse from Indiana who auditioned in Atlanta. Oh wait, new development: She had a major car accident after auditioning, thus enhancing her already quasi-compelling back story. Well played.
She sings "Light My Fire" and I really like her. Clearly, the producers have already pegged her as this season's token rocker chick. Looks like this is another instance in which the spoilers might be right. Still, she's better than ones we've seen in the past.
The judges like her, though Simon suggests she needs to expand her range. Three-way yes, though.
8:26 Montage of contestants who forgot their lyrics.
8:28 Say hello to Ghaleb...the latin lover from Miami. I hate this guy. He's a wannabe Enrique Iglesias who isn't even cute. He reminds me of the foreign exchange kid who always gets tons of booty in college just because he speaks four languages.
Luckily, he bombs his performance, guitar and all. At least in my mind. Wait, Paula's smiling. Which might not mean anything, but still...
OK judge feedback: Paula actually doesn't like it, and Simon and Randy follow suit.
Adios, muchacho! (For now.)
8:31 Turns out 54 contestants didn't get a free pass on the first day of Hollywood. They'll be back in our next segment. Hmmm...that means just over 100 got the free pass. The judges were pretty friendly, eh?
She sings "Light My Fire" and I really like her. Clearly, the producers have already pegged her as this season's token rocker chick. Looks like this is another instance in which the spoilers might be right. Still, she's better than ones we've seen in the past.
The judges like her, though Simon suggests she needs to expand her range. Three-way yes, though.
8:26 Montage of contestants who forgot their lyrics.
8:28 Say hello to Ghaleb...the latin lover from Miami. I hate this guy. He's a wannabe Enrique Iglesias who isn't even cute. He reminds me of the foreign exchange kid who always gets tons of booty in college just because he speaks four languages.
Luckily, he bombs his performance, guitar and all. At least in my mind. Wait, Paula's smiling. Which might not mean anything, but still...
OK judge feedback: Paula actually doesn't like it, and Simon and Randy follow suit.
Adios, muchacho! (For now.)
8:31 Turns out 54 contestants didn't get a free pass on the first day of Hollywood. They'll be back in our next segment. Hmmm...that means just over 100 got the free pass. The judges were pretty friendly, eh?
no one's very instrumental
8:11 Simon utters, "You have the stage presence of a flea" to a very unforgettable contestant.
8:12 Some poor reviews for contestants opting for musical instruments. Looks like Brooke's the only success on this end so far. But wait...Jake's here to change the judges' minds. He plays a full drum set, in a perfomance I think sounds like karaoke. The judges call it just OK. Randy even uses my karaoke parallel. Simon: "There was absolutely nothing redeeming about it, other than that we stopped it early."
8:15 David Hernandez gets his own little segment, meaning he must be another producer favorite. We flash back to his San Diego audition, which did not air. Wow, he has the same hometown as Jordin Sparks -- Glendale, Ariz. This is going to be good.
He pulls out some "Love the One You're With" in a stellar performance. Why did they save this guy for Hollywood? He's good, very solid, with a jazz tone to his voice. The judges are ecstatic, even Simon. Three OK's.
8:12 Some poor reviews for contestants opting for musical instruments. Looks like Brooke's the only success on this end so far. But wait...Jake's here to change the judges' minds. He plays a full drum set, in a perfomance I think sounds like karaoke. The judges call it just OK. Randy even uses my karaoke parallel. Simon: "There was absolutely nothing redeeming about it, other than that we stopped it early."
8:15 David Hernandez gets his own little segment, meaning he must be another producer favorite. We flash back to his San Diego audition, which did not air. Wow, he has the same hometown as Jordin Sparks -- Glendale, Ariz. This is going to be good.
He pulls out some "Love the One You're With" in a stellar performance. Why did they save this guy for Hollywood? He's good, very solid, with a jazz tone to his voice. The judges are ecstatic, even Simon. Three OK's.
brooke's on key
8:03 Wow, a twist. Nobody gets cut during the first two days. But on the third day, it'll be a bloodbath, according to Seacrest. Yes!
8:03 Time for the first auditioner of the night, religious nanny Brooke White. Reminder: She's never seen an R-rated movie. Note that many of the spoiler sites are pegging her as one of the Top 24.
Yike, she plays the piano. Way to set it off with a new trend. Anyway, she does some song called "Beautiful" and the judges don't look terribly impressed. It's good, very indie rock, singer/songwriter-ish, but doesn't show a whole lot of range...other than the obvious piano talent, of course.
Simon says he really likes her, and draws a Carly Simon parallel. Randy and Paula agree, meaning she gets a free ride to the final day of Hollywood. So far, spoilers seem right, I guess. The producers are really pushing her on us.
8:06 Lorena Pinot isn't as lucky. She botches "Man, I Feel Like a Woman" while wearing a cheap knockoff Catholic schoolgirl uniform. Amy Flynn -- remember her, the abstinence chick? -- also gets a no. Same fate for Leo Marlowe, a singer I actually don't remember. Remember, though, that these are only temporary no's. They'll all get second Hollywood performances.
8:03 Time for the first auditioner of the night, religious nanny Brooke White. Reminder: She's never seen an R-rated movie. Note that many of the spoiler sites are pegging her as one of the Top 24.
Yike, she plays the piano. Way to set it off with a new trend. Anyway, she does some song called "Beautiful" and the judges don't look terribly impressed. It's good, very indie rock, singer/songwriter-ish, but doesn't show a whole lot of range...other than the obvious piano talent, of course.
Simon says he really likes her, and draws a Carly Simon parallel. Randy and Paula agree, meaning she gets a free ride to the final day of Hollywood. So far, spoilers seem right, I guess. The producers are really pushing her on us.
8:06 Lorena Pinot isn't as lucky. She botches "Man, I Feel Like a Woman" while wearing a cheap knockoff Catholic schoolgirl uniform. Amy Flynn -- remember her, the abstinence chick? -- also gets a no. Same fate for Leo Marlowe, a singer I actually don't remember. Remember, though, that these are only temporary no's. They'll all get second Hollywood performances.
here we go
It's Hollywood night and I'm ready to blog!
Party with me for 2 hours and expect some endless fun.
Stay tuned for live updates.
Party with me for 2 hours and expect some endless fun.
Stay tuned for live updates.
hollywood singin'
Aaaaah!
It's finally time for Hollywood Week. Reminder: We'll see 164 contestants, some of whom will play musical instruments. (For the first season EVER, btw.)
Just learned tonight's show is two hours, as is Wednesday's Hollywood episode. Yikes. Back story overload, anyone?
Wednesday, the contestant pool will be narrowed to 24.
Tonight's episode starts at 8 p.m. As usual, I'll be blogging the episode live, so be sure to check in for minute-by-minute updates.
It's finally time for Hollywood Week. Reminder: We'll see 164 contestants, some of whom will play musical instruments. (For the first season EVER, btw.)
Just learned tonight's show is two hours, as is Wednesday's Hollywood episode. Yikes. Back story overload, anyone?
Wednesday, the contestant pool will be narrowed to 24.
Tonight's episode starts at 8 p.m. As usual, I'll be blogging the episode live, so be sure to check in for minute-by-minute updates.
Friday, February 8, 2008
sob story overload
Asia'h Epperson offered one of this season's most dramatic back stories -- her dad died 30 minutes after she told him she was on her way to AI auditions. You know that AI back stories have reached a new high -- or low -- when they bear all too uncanny a resemblance to the emotional histories usually reserved for figure skaters.
I'm not kidding, either. Radar was clever enough to devise this quiz, a collection of personal sob stories that either belong to Olympic athletes or AI contestants. The sad part? It's actually pretty difficult.
Think AI's producers have gone overboard in attempting to renew their emphasis on singers' personal lives this season?
If you think you're having a bad hair day, check out this picture of Fantasia Barrino's tresses. Clue: They make Sanjaya's ponyhawk look normal.
Have a great weekend and get ready for the start of Hollywood Week on Tuesday! Singing and crying and musical instruments! Oh my!
Thursday, February 7, 2008
an even happier place on earth
One step closer to complete world domination, "Idol" will soon be theme of a live performance attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park in Florida.
Here's an excerpt from this AP article:
The attraction's details are still being worked out, but it will probably operate something like this: Theme park guests ages 14 and up will be able to audition for a Disney casting producer. Those who pass the test will be selected to appear in one of the park's "Idol" stage shows. (Disney Parks chairman) Rasulo anticipates six to eight such shows a day.
Backstage, the performers will receive hair and makeup touchups from a stylist and singing tips from a vocal coach. Then, the guests will perform on an "Idol"-like set in front of a live audience and three judges. No, not Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell. Instead, Rasulo says it's likely three audience members will be selected to evaluate the performers while a live host will keep the show moving.
Top audience vote-getters will compete in a grand finale show at the end of each day. Overall daily champs will win a special front-of-the-line pass at a regional audition for the actual "American Idol" show. (FreemantleMedia's licensing vice president) Hindle says Disney winners won't be given any special treatment during the real audition, just the ability to skip ahead.
Because of eligibility differences — namely, the TV show's 16- to 28-year-old age limit — winners may be offered the option of transferring their pass to a friend or family member, but they won't be allowed to sell it. Daily champs too young to audition for the real deal could save the pass until they're old enough to compete, according to Hindle.
Here's an excerpt from this AP article:
The attraction's details are still being worked out, but it will probably operate something like this: Theme park guests ages 14 and up will be able to audition for a Disney casting producer. Those who pass the test will be selected to appear in one of the park's "Idol" stage shows. (Disney Parks chairman) Rasulo anticipates six to eight such shows a day.
Backstage, the performers will receive hair and makeup touchups from a stylist and singing tips from a vocal coach. Then, the guests will perform on an "Idol"-like set in front of a live audience and three judges. No, not Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell. Instead, Rasulo says it's likely three audience members will be selected to evaluate the performers while a live host will keep the show moving.
Top audience vote-getters will compete in a grand finale show at the end of each day. Overall daily champs will win a special front-of-the-line pass at a regional audition for the actual "American Idol" show. (FreemantleMedia's licensing vice president) Hindle says Disney winners won't be given any special treatment during the real audition, just the ability to skip ahead.
Because of eligibility differences — namely, the TV show's 16- to 28-year-old age limit — winners may be offered the option of transferring their pass to a friend or family member, but they won't be allowed to sell it. Daily champs too young to audition for the real deal could save the pass until they're old enough to compete, according to Hindle.
Thoughts?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
