Hey "Idol" fans...this blog has a new home.
You can now get all your AI gossip, news and candid commentary by following this link.
See you there!
Monday, January 12, 2009
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
life after idol
The LA Times has this piece about season 7 contestant Carly Smithson's difficulty finding her recording niche post-Idol.
Carly moved to Hollywood and signed with an entertainment manager. She's now recording a demo disc.
An excerpt from the article:
Drawing on her contacts from the first time around, Smithson signed with Arthur Spivak, a veteran entertainment manager whose clients past and present include Tori Amos and Three Days Grace. Spivak advised Smithson that, rather than seeking an immediate record deal, she should work with a co-writer/producer and record a handful of songs that would create an artistic identity.
"American Idol," for all the fame it bestows, can be a marketing handicap. A surprising number of former contestants face the question, "What kind of artist are you?" This is certainly the case for Smithson, whose powerful vocal skills broke through the clutter in Season 7 but whose pop/rocker style was difficult to express around the songs of Mariah Carey, Dolly Parton and Broadway musicals.
Sure, the dilemma is obvious, but it'll at least serve as an additional word of caution for the next group of hopefuls.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
about those changes...
Paula's not leaving, but AI will shake things up a bit for its eighth season. Here's a recap of what's happening:
*No "Idol Gives Back" special. A result of tough economic times, producers say.
*A different format for the semifinal rounds. Instead of 24 semifinalists, there will be 36. They will perform in groups of 12, with viewers voting 3 contestants into the final group each night. Then there will be a wild card round when the judges pick the last 3 finalists.
*We're also promised more footage from Hollywood week -- which this year becomes Hollywood two weeks.
*Oh, and don't forget about the fourth judge, Kara DioGuardi. AI's eighth season premieres Jan. 13. Get a schedule for the first part of the season here.
*No "Idol Gives Back" special. A result of tough economic times, producers say.
*A different format for the semifinal rounds. Instead of 24 semifinalists, there will be 36. They will perform in groups of 12, with viewers voting 3 contestants into the final group each night. Then there will be a wild card round when the judges pick the last 3 finalists.
*We're also promised more footage from Hollywood week -- which this year becomes Hollywood two weeks.
*Oh, and don't forget about the fourth judge, Kara DioGuardi. AI's eighth season premieres Jan. 13. Get a schedule for the first part of the season here.
Monday, December 15, 2008
while you were sleeping
Finally...I've stopped shaking at the mere mention of all things David and I'm ready to blog another season of Idol.
Welcome back, everyone!
This blog has been updated sparsely since last season's finale, partially because of the months I spent in cover-tune rehab.
And also because, well, you can only write so much about an unhealthy David Archuleta addiction without being investigated by federal authorities.
Fortunately, that's all water under the bridge now and I'm back for more.
Season 8 premieres Jan. 13, but let's step back in time for a quick rundown of the AI-related news you probably didn't miss in recent months:
*Some former Idols basked in financial prosperity. Others did not.
*Despite a breakup in his personal life, Simon Cowell remains more famous than God.
*There were two AI-related tragedies: The murders of Jennifer Hudson's family, and the alleged stalker, Paula Goodspeed, who was found dead in a car outside Paula Abdul's home.
*Regarding the latter, Abdul later pointed to a conspiracy theory while discussing why Goodspeed was allowed to audition for AI. But her claims of wanting to leave AI seem more like a publicity stunt, many agree.
*At any rate, AI will add a fourth judge in Season 8. The three original judges stay the same.
*Jordin Sparks is still happy to be a virgin.
*And last, but most certainly not least, Clay Aiken has a son.
Got it? OK, now take a deep breath. It's time to move forward.
Welcome back, everyone!
This blog has been updated sparsely since last season's finale, partially because of the months I spent in cover-tune rehab.
And also because, well, you can only write so much about an unhealthy David Archuleta addiction without being investigated by federal authorities.
Fortunately, that's all water under the bridge now and I'm back for more.
Season 8 premieres Jan. 13, but let's step back in time for a quick rundown of the AI-related news you probably didn't miss in recent months:
*Some former Idols basked in financial prosperity. Others did not.
*Despite a breakup in his personal life, Simon Cowell remains more famous than God.
*There were two AI-related tragedies: The murders of Jennifer Hudson's family, and the alleged stalker, Paula Goodspeed, who was found dead in a car outside Paula Abdul's home.
*Regarding the latter, Abdul later pointed to a conspiracy theory while discussing why Goodspeed was allowed to audition for AI. But her claims of wanting to leave AI seem more like a publicity stunt, many agree.
*At any rate, AI will add a fourth judge in Season 8. The three original judges stay the same.
*Jordin Sparks is still happy to be a virgin.
*And last, but most certainly not least, Clay Aiken has a son.
Got it? OK, now take a deep breath. It's time to move forward.
Monday, August 25, 2008
a fourth judge!
A fourth judge will join the "American Idol" panel, host Ryan Seacrest announced on his radio show today.
The addition? Kara DioGuardi -- a singer, songwriter, producer and artist who's written songs for artists like Christian Aguilera, Celine Dion and Carrie Underwood. See her official Web site here.
And listen to Ryan's announcement here.
What do you guys think about this? How do you think it will change the show's overall dynamic? Will the presence of another woman make Paula even nuttier than usual?
Follow this blog throughout the day for updates on this major "Idol" change.
The addition? Kara DioGuardi -- a singer, songwriter, producer and artist who's written songs for artists like Christian Aguilera, Celine Dion and Carrie Underwood. See her official Web site here.
And listen to Ryan's announcement here.
What do you guys think about this? How do you think it will change the show's overall dynamic? Will the presence of another woman make Paula even nuttier than usual?
Follow this blog throughout the day for updates on this major "Idol" change.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
that time again
Hey everyone...don't forget that WXTX Fox 54 is hosting a local "American Idol" competition Saturday in Auburn that will give one local winner a trip East Rutherford, N.J., for a guaranteed audition. The action starts at 10 a.m. CST. Get the full details here.
In honor of the audition mania, I'm posting some of my favorite audition moments this week -- beginning with these moments from the most recent season:
Here's winner David Cook's first attempt to woo Paula, Randy and Simon:
And here's what you've been missing for the past couple months...a reminder of the magic that was "Brothers Forever."
In honor of the audition mania, I'm posting some of my favorite audition moments this week -- beginning with these moments from the most recent season:
Here's winner David Cook's first attempt to woo Paula, Randy and Simon:
And here's what you've been missing for the past couple months...a reminder of the magic that was "Brothers Forever."
Monday, June 30, 2008
love & idol
*Here's a very brief recap of Ruben's wedding, which took place Saturday in a church in a suburb outside Birmingham. He met her in 2006, during a fan meet-and-greet in a Wal-Mart.
*Season 7's Kristy Lee cook has signed with Arista Nashville, the same label that dropped her when she was a teenager. Her first single, "15 Minutes of Shame," comes out August 11. Read more here.
*Finally, is anyone actually surprised that David Archuleta has never kissed a girl? Um, yeah, that's what I thought. Full story here.
*Season 7's Kristy Lee cook has signed with Arista Nashville, the same label that dropped her when she was a teenager. Her first single, "15 Minutes of Shame," comes out August 11. Read more here.
*Finally, is anyone actually surprised that David Archuleta has never kissed a girl? Um, yeah, that's what I thought. Full story here.
Friday, June 27, 2008
we'll always have paris
Season 5 finalist Paris Bennett is preggers...and engaged. Read more here.
Paris is 19 now, in case you were wondering. I think my favorite part of the aforementioned article is this quote from Paris' grandmother:
"I'm proud of how she did it. I was 16 when I got pregnant," said Jamecia.
I never really liked Paris that much while she was competing. A bit too robotic. But, um, I still pass on my congratulations.
Have a good weekend!
Paris is 19 now, in case you were wondering. I think my favorite part of the aforementioned article is this quote from Paris' grandmother:
"I'm proud of how she did it. I was 16 when I got pregnant," said Jamecia.
I never really liked Paris that much while she was competing. A bit too robotic. But, um, I still pass on my congratulations.
Have a good weekend!
Thursday, June 26, 2008
no atlanta auditions this year
Local singers looking for "American Idol" fame will have to travel outside their comfort zones this year. Literally.
Audition cities for the eighth season of the reality TV show have been announced, and while producers traveled to Atlanta last year, it's not included this time. Still want to try out? Here are your options:
Thursday, July 17 San Francisco, Calif. The Cow Palace
Monday, July 21 Louisville, Ky. Freedom Hall
Friday, July 25 Phoenix, Ariz. Jobing.com Arena
Tuesday, July 29 Salt Lake City, Utah EnergySolutions Arena
Saturday, August 2 San Juan, Puerto Rico Coliseo de Puerto Rico
Friday, August 8 Kansas City, Mo. Sprint Center
Wednesday, August 13 Jacksonville, Fla. Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena
Tuesday, August 19 East Rutherford, N.J. IZOD Center at the Meadowlands
Read more here.
Audition cities for the eighth season of the reality TV show have been announced, and while producers traveled to Atlanta last year, it's not included this time. Still want to try out? Here are your options:
Thursday, July 17 San Francisco, Calif. The Cow Palace
Monday, July 21 Louisville, Ky. Freedom Hall
Friday, July 25 Phoenix, Ariz. Jobing.com Arena
Tuesday, July 29 Salt Lake City, Utah EnergySolutions Arena
Saturday, August 2 San Juan, Puerto Rico Coliseo de Puerto Rico
Friday, August 8 Kansas City, Mo. Sprint Center
Wednesday, August 13 Jacksonville, Fla. Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena
Tuesday, August 19 East Rutherford, N.J. IZOD Center at the Meadowlands
Read more here.
back in the saddle
Can you blame me for taking a month off post-"Idol" finale? Don't answer that. Anyway, this blog is back in action now. And boy, what a difference a month makes. Here's a rundown of what's transpired in "Idol" land since I last blogged:
*Former contestant Vonzell Solomon got caught with a gun in the airport. And her house is being sold in foreclosure.
Wow. Looks like I didn't miss that much after all. Stay tuned.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
rock on!
New posts will resume post-Memorial Day. Use this space to weigh in with all your thoughts on the Season 7 champion, David Cook.
idol detox
Recovered yet? Me neither. But in case you're in need of an AI fix, here are some links to keep you busy:
*Tuesday's episode outperformed last year's final performance episode in ratings, this article notes. It also represented the best AI scores since March.
*Some 97.5 million people voted in the AI finale. How many votes were cast in all 2008 Democratic presidential primaries? 35, 216,531. (Via USA Today's political blog.)
*Entertainment Weekly has this backstage interview with David Cook and this one with David Archuleta.
*The Davids had a teleprompter reminding them of their lyrics on Tuesday's performance episode. Think this makes the show more similar to karaoke? Get the full story here.
*Does a Cook victory prove that the judges don't know what they're talking about? This piece takes on that question.
*Finally, on a sadder note, Top 24 contestant Luke Menard has been diagnosed with cancer. Details here.
*Tuesday's episode outperformed last year's final performance episode in ratings, this article notes. It also represented the best AI scores since March.
*Some 97.5 million people voted in the AI finale. How many votes were cast in all 2008 Democratic presidential primaries? 35, 216,531. (Via USA Today's political blog.)
*Entertainment Weekly has this backstage interview with David Cook and this one with David Archuleta.
*The Davids had a teleprompter reminding them of their lyrics on Tuesday's performance episode. Think this makes the show more similar to karaoke? Get the full story here.
*Does a Cook victory prove that the judges don't know what they're talking about? This piece takes on that question.
*Finally, on a sadder note, Top 24 contestant Luke Menard has been diagnosed with cancer. Details here.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
idol ends, cook's future begins
I have to give some credit to AI voters. Clearly, people are ready for a change of tide, and the show got its first rock Idol with David Cook's victory tonight.
He ends the night performing this year's coronation tune, "Time of My Life," tears and all, and sounds pretty good.
Despite the excessive praise Archuleta received from judges Tuesday night, I think if anything, the night proved Archie's lack of versatility as a recording artist. Cook represented something new, not only musically, but also with a personality "edge" that's not as traditionally saccharine as the AI brand.
I can still see Archie recording a song or two for adult contemporary radio, though.
Sure, this season had its down points, but in the end I think the finale proved we got a pretty strong depth of talent. I'd rank this one above Season 6, definitely.
It's been interesting, definitely, and I'd like to thank all you guys not only for checking in regularly, but also for the excellent comments. Even when they involve repeated use of "hit that" or criticism of my predictions. You've made me look forward to nights of glorified karaoke.
And, of course, I'd like to extend a special thanks to my weekly hosts, Dawn and Jeff, who watch this cheesy show just to help me out.
I still plan on updating this blog semi-regularly, at least in August when I plan to attend the Idols Live tour.
Thanks again for reading...keep the comments coming.
He ends the night performing this year's coronation tune, "Time of My Life," tears and all, and sounds pretty good.
Despite the excessive praise Archuleta received from judges Tuesday night, I think if anything, the night proved Archie's lack of versatility as a recording artist. Cook represented something new, not only musically, but also with a personality "edge" that's not as traditionally saccharine as the AI brand.
I can still see Archie recording a song or two for adult contemporary radio, though.
Sure, this season had its down points, but in the end I think the finale proved we got a pretty strong depth of talent. I'd rank this one above Season 6, definitely.
It's been interesting, definitely, and I'd like to thank all you guys not only for checking in regularly, but also for the excellent comments. Even when they involve repeated use of "hit that" or criticism of my predictions. You've made me look forward to nights of glorified karaoke.
And, of course, I'd like to extend a special thanks to my weekly hosts, Dawn and Jeff, who watch this cheesy show just to help me out.
I still plan on updating this blog semi-regularly, at least in August when I plan to attend the Idols Live tour.
Thanks again for reading...keep the comments coming.
david cook wins!
Results time!
Simon says last night he was verging on disrespectful with David Cook. Apology!
OK, and the Season 7 Idol is...
David Cook!!
Simon says last night he was verging on disrespectful with David Cook. Apology!
OK, and the Season 7 Idol is...
David Cook!!
george michael performs
Another "Guitar Hero" commercial, this time featuring Archuleta in the "Risky Business"-inspired "Old Time Rock and Roll" bit. Um, it's a little more uncomfortable than watching Cook in the same bit. Think kiddie porn.
Now the Top 12 take the stage again for a George Michael medley. Again, probably not the best idea for Hernandez to sing "Father Figure." And here's George Michael! Paula is sooo excited right now. I can't recognize the song -- it's a slow one -- and I really wish he would have opted for "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go."
And Paula's crying.
Note: I don't think this classifies him as the biggest star in the world.
Now the Top 12 take the stage again for a George Michael medley. Again, probably not the best idea for Hernandez to sing "Father Figure." And here's George Michael! Paula is sooo excited right now. I can't recognize the song -- it's a slow one -- and I really wish he would have opted for "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go."
And Paula's crying.
Note: I don't think this classifies him as the biggest star in the world.
"dead" gladys knight
Whoa! A "dead Elvis" performance, only this time featuring Gladys Knight. Note: She's still alive. She's backed up by the "Pips" -- Ben Stiller, Jack Black and Robert Downey Jr. Translation: comedy bit. They sing "Midnight Train to Georgia." And, um, ew. Jack Black's pants came off.
On a less creepy note, here's Carrie Underwood. She performs "Last Name" very well. I love her. So hot.
On a less creepy note, here's Carrie Underwood. She performs "Last Name" very well. I love her. So hot.
one republic, jordin sparks
Time for a performance by One Republic. They sing "Apologize," sans Timbaland. But instead of Timbaland...we get Archuleta!! Yes! He actually sounds really great on this one. Ballad obsession aside, he deserves to win tonight.
Back to hometown visits...Matt Rodgers is here to update us on the fun in Utah. Some of Archie's family no hablan espanol.
And Jordin Sparks is back to sing "One Step at a Time." Her outfit -- a gold babydoll dress -- is less than flattering. Not quite at Fantasia's level, but pretty awful. You get the idea.
Back to hometown visits...Matt Rodgers is here to update us on the fun in Utah. Some of Archie's family no hablan espanol.
And Jordin Sparks is back to sing "One Step at a Time." Her outfit -- a gold babydoll dress -- is less than flattering. Not quite at Fantasia's level, but pretty awful. You get the idea.
brothers forever?
Yes! The Jonas Brothers take the stage. Archuleta must be sooo jealous right now. I love these guys, by the way. I'll pretend I'm 16.
Inevitable bad-auditioner recap. I actually remember most of these people. And as predicted, Renaldo Lapuz appears on the AI stage to sing "Brothers Forever." Joined by the USC cheerleaders and marching band. Plus Paula and Randy. Simon is having nothing to do with this.
Fortunately, he's cut off by the commercial break.
Inevitable bad-auditioner recap. I actually remember most of these people. And as predicted, Renaldo Lapuz appears on the AI stage to sing "Brothers Forever." Joined by the USC cheerleaders and marching band. Plus Paula and Randy. Simon is having nothing to do with this.
Fortunately, he's cut off by the commercial break.
zz top and more!
Here's Jordin Sparks, who explains about living the Idol dream. Which also somehow involves Disney.
On a more exciting note, David Cook is performing with ZZ Top! A pretty awesome performance, but not necessarily supporting the case for Cook removing his facial hair. Blake Lewis is in the audience, too, by the way.
Cue the hometown visit shots. Mikalah Gordon gives an update from David Cook's hometown.
Brooke takes the stage with Graham Nash to do a guitar duet on "Teach Your Children." Fortunately, she doesn't forget the lyrics.
One hour to go!
Did anyone else see that "Guitar Hero" commercial? Was that David Cook on it? Consensus is divided.
On a more exciting note, David Cook is performing with ZZ Top! A pretty awesome performance, but not necessarily supporting the case for Cook removing his facial hair. Blake Lewis is in the audience, too, by the way.
Cue the hometown visit shots. Mikalah Gordon gives an update from David Cook's hometown.
Brooke takes the stage with Graham Nash to do a guitar duet on "Teach Your Children." Fortunately, she doesn't forget the lyrics.
One hour to go!
Did anyone else see that "Guitar Hero" commercial? Was that David Cook on it? Consensus is divided.
bryan adams, jimmy kimmel
Carly and Michael Johns take the stage together to sing "The Letter." Predictably, they sound pretty good together. Probably my 2 favorite contestants of the season. Love them.
Back to comedy. Jimmy Kimmel's here to give a review of the season. His "19 weeks of karaoke" joke doesn't get a lot of laughs. But there is a crack about Paula's mishap on Neil Diamond week. Funny bit compiling Simon's criticisms.
Time for the Top 6 men to perform. They kick things off with "The Summer of '69." Probably not the best tune for Hernandez to sing, if you know what I mean. Looks like a Brian Adams medley. Archie and Cook take on "Heaven" together. Um, can you say bromance?
Oh! Bryan Adams joins the crew. Man party! Bo Bice is in the audience, probably wishing he was on stage. Maybe.
Back to comedy. Jimmy Kimmel's here to give a review of the season. His "19 weeks of karaoke" joke doesn't get a lot of laughs. But there is a crack about Paula's mishap on Neil Diamond week. Funny bit compiling Simon's criticisms.
Time for the Top 6 men to perform. They kick things off with "The Summer of '69." Probably not the best tune for Hernandez to sing, if you know what I mean. Looks like a Brian Adams medley. Archie and Cook take on "Heaven" together. Um, can you say bromance?
Oh! Bryan Adams joins the crew. Man party! Bo Bice is in the audience, probably wishing he was on stage. Maybe.
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