Just felt compelled to start the new thread. I'm looking forward to seeing Ellen, but she's not on yet. They have Posh Spice guest judging instead. The guest judges look interesting. I can't wait to see Kristin Chenoweth.
I hear Simon will not be back next year. I don't watch the show, but the couple times I tuned in, I'm not crazy about it OR him. He's one rude SOB. I would think a new host would be a plus.
Listen to me American Pop Idol lovers. Remember you heard it from me my friends.
Cowell is doing one more season of Pop Idol before launching his US version of the X Factor. This happened in the UK and now X Factor is the biggest thing on our screens. It will happen to you also,but don't be scared cos the 2 shows are nearly exactly the same. The only difference being is that the X Factor belongs solely to Cowell hence more money
I'm one of the few people over here, who doesn't watch the show regularly. But from what little I've seen from each year, Simon is the most entertaining part of the show. I imagine that Ellen will be funny in her own way, but Simon is pretty much the heartbeat.
Listen to me American Pop Idol lovers. Remember you heard it from me my friends.
Cowell is doing one more season of Pop Idol before launching his US version of the X Factor. This happened in the UK and now X Factor is the biggest thing on our screens. It will happen to you also,but don't be scared cos the 2 shows are nearly exactly the same. The only difference being is that the X Factor belongs solely to Cowell hence more money
Get ready for the X Factor folks
another british showing crossing over seas...not shocking at all
When Ellen D arrives I will be curious to see how Simon interacts. In the past he has made gay inferences to Ryan. The dynamic has now changed. Will Ellen come to the rescue? or be insulted? or ?
Blige indeed sucked. At least Posh looked like she was trying. And laughing in the contestants' faces should stop. It just seems mean. I know you could say that they're asking for it, but still.
The best thing to hit Idol in years - General Larry Platt "Pants on the Ground, Pants on the Ground, Lookin' like a fool with your pants on the ground"
Blige indeed sucked. At least Posh looked like she was trying. And laughing in the contestants' faces should stop. It just seems mean. I know you could say that they're asking for it, but still.
Oh yeah. Maybe they are, but they don't deserve to be laughed at. Somebody should just say "Stop", and then say, "Look, you're not what we're looking for, sorry, thanks, goodbye."
But that wouldn't make 'good television', so what we get is a condescending self-righteous freak show, the grandest in-joke of all. It's pathetic and actually makes my blood boil.
The Wednesday night show had me ballin'. The autistic son, the girl with the nerve damage in her face and the guy who spent 4 years in jail. They were all talented and nice folks.
The bank robber was the best of the night I think. And I enjoyed the beat-boxer. The freakin' Jersey girls were too annoying, and not good enough singers, but they got thru anyway. Seems like a lot of mediocre "talent" has been getting thru this year. I haven't been too overwhelmed for the most part so far....
The bank robber was the best of the night I think. And I enjoyed the beat-boxer. The freakin' Jersey girls were too annoying, and not good enough singers, but they got thru anyway. Seems like a lot of mediocre "talent" has been getting thru this year. I haven't been too overwhelmed for the most part so far....
I was hoping for a bit more of a show with that wardrobe malfunction, but no. Simon had to tell him not to move.
LOVED Kristin Chenowith and wish she could have stayed for the whole show. She was a delight, if only for the fact that she seemed to bug the shit out of Simon.
MC - sad stories give you that loving feeling? You sick dog, you!
Originally Posted By: MaryCas
The Wednesday night show had me ballin'. The autistic son, the girl with the nerve damage in her face and the guy who spent 4 years in jail. They were all talented and nice folks.
I was hoping for a bit more of a show with that wardrobe malfunction, but no. Simon had to tell him not to move.
LOVED Kristin Chenowith and wish she could have stayed for the whole show. She was a delight, if only for the fact that she seemed to bug the shit out of Simon.
MC - sad stories give you that loving feeling? You sick dog, you!
Originally Posted By: MaryCas
The Wednesday night show had me ballin'. The autistic son, the girl with the nerve damage in her face and the guy who spent 4 years in jail. They were all talented and nice folks.
That pretty brunette girl on American Idol with the nerve damage to her face melts my heart. She is so sweet and I am glad to see her going to Hollywood.
As you all probably know I am not an AI viewer. However, one of my co-workers e-mailed today to let me know that her son will be on American Idol tonight. His name is Andrew Garcia. I probably will tune in just to see him. I have no idea if he's good or not. I've only met her son a couple times. Anyway, we'll see.
Andrew Garcia is definitely in the Top 24. That means that he not only makes it to Hollywood, but then is picked by the judges as one of the best 12 guys from that round. After that, it's up to the viewers
Thanks for the info SB. I knew he played in a band but that's about it. I remember he came to the school a few times, and seemed nice enough, but this surprises me. What time is it on anyway? You guys see it before I do, somebody post if he's on the beginning, middle or end, because to be honest, I don't want to see the entire show, but I do want to see him.
I enjoy watching the AI. Sometimes the auditions gets on my nerves. I'll keep a lookout for your friends Son TIS. It'll be fun to see how he progresses.
Rock With Love features Bret Michaels (of the band Poison) narrowing down from a number of women his chosen Girlfriend-For-Life. There have been three seasons so far (I've only caught re-runs of the first); of course, for the whole thing to work, in between each season Michaels has to break up with the previous season's winning contestant.
The "hand on the heart" self-seriousness of it is cripplingly hilarious.
TIS, your colleague's son was just on. He has a fabulous voice. They showed several members of his family, too, including his little one. What a cutie!
I would suggest tuning in at the halfway mark to see his entire segment.
TIS, your colleague's son was just on. He has a fabulous voice. They showed several members of his family, too, including his little one. What a cutie!
I would suggest tuning in at the halfway mark to see his entire segment.
is it the one with his family getting away from the gangs?
TIS, your colleague's son was just on. He has a fabulous voice. They showed several members of his family, too, including his little one. What a cutie!
I would suggest tuning in at the halfway mark to see his entire segment.
Thanks SB. She has two sons and I wasn't sure which one was which. Now that you mentioned a the baby I know which one you mean. I remember her saying he was in a band. He was always quiet when he came in the office. Didn't talk much.
You talk gangs, and yea, my co-worker says she was in an L.A. Gang when she was younger and I'm not surprised at that comment. I wonder if his mother is there? I don't even know where it's filmed. Is it L.A.?
TIS's coworker's son is probably one of the best this season. Not too many others stand out, but that's probably because they keep skipping over most of the performances while rehashing shit we've already seen 4 times! WTF????
Andrew Garcia is very, very good. However, I also liked the girl who sang on Tuesday. I have NO clue what her name is. She's a single mom and they showed her getting her son's name tattooed on her back (always a wise decision).
The guy who robbed a bank when he was 15 had a beautiful voice at his audition. He totally blew it last night, though, forgot the words and sang off key. It was sad.
And Ellen DeGeneres thought Simon Cowell was mean!
Howard Stern let loose on the new “Idol” judge in an expletive-laced bit during his radio show.
After commenting on DeGeneres’ deal as a spokesperson with Covergirl cosmetics (“Ellen DeGeneres looks like somebody punched her in the face,” he said. “She gets on that Covergirl and you’d think she’s Heidi Klum”), the shock jock dived into rumors he’s up to take Cowell’s spot.
“[DeGeneres is] going to ruin ‘American Idol,’ ” Stern said. “Everyone goes, if Howard Stern takes over ‘American Idol,’ Ellen DeGeneres might leave. Well yeah, that's the whole (expletive) idea. I’m not going to sit there with her – that dummy.”
Ellen is an unknown on Idol at this point. Maybe she will suck as a judge, or maybe not. But, please, Howard, look in the mirror before you make fun on someone else's looks. Ellen's a goo looking woman, especially for being 50 (although I do think her new 'do is a bit butch).
Edit: maybe he's just jealous because she scored with both Portia and Anne Heche!
And I'll repeat over and over again, "Fock Howard!" after how that scumbag treated O&A. But even before that, he's been a shell of his old self from 20 years ago, so... washed up and worthless. And certainly not an opinion that means anything any more to anyone with more than 2 brain cells.
That pretty brunette girl on American Idol with the nerve damage to her face melts my heart. She is so sweet and I am glad to see her going to Hollywood.
I thought she was wonderful, Mark. What a lovely voice! Unfortunately, she didn't get through last night. She made it to the final 46, but then the judges voted her off. As she was walking out, even Simon said that they had made the wrong decision.
They picked seven of the Final 24 last night. Michael "Big Mike" Lynche, whose wife gave birth to their first child during one of last week's episodes, was the first contestant to get voted through.
Click to reveal..
However, there are rumors that he's been disqualified. Supposedly, his father confirmed to a reporter that his son was in the Final 24 back in January, and that violates the show's confidentiality agreements. He has supposedly been replaced by someone else who was previously voted off. American Idol will not confirm or deny.
Hopefully it'll start picking up next week when it's live w/ the Top 24 ... cuz so far I haven't been all that impressed. They really sped thru the beginning so fast; I have no idea who the hell is who.
I know a few of the contestants, but not many. I think there are plenty of the Top 24 that we've never heard. They spent too much time on the stupid "I'm adopted, I got out of jail, I had cancer, my mom has cancer..." stories. And then those contestants would get voted off! Why do I need to invest all this time in learning about them if we're never seeing them again? I know they don't want to spent too much time on those contestants that get through so we don't guess who they are, but c'mon!
By TRAVIS LOLLER, Associated Press Writer – Sat Feb 20, 7:36 am ET
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The success of an "American Idol" contestant is causing a stir among parents who are complaining they never got refunds for performance fees in a failed musical production Todrick Hall wrote and directed.
Hall, who on Tuesday made it into the top 24 on "American Idol," wrote "Oz, The Musical," which he billed on its Facebook page as "a contemporary twist on the classic story, with all new music."
He had been putting on small productions of the show since he was 17, using local, nonprofessional actors for the lead roles and casting local children as munchkins and flying monkeys.
"They were fabulous, just wonderful productions, and the kids just really loved them," said Dallas businessman Greg Money, who had three daughters in the shows.
Then in August 2008, Money agreed to finance a production of "Oz" in Lubbock, Texas, that used a professional cast for the lead roles. That led to a small tour of Texas cities in early 2009 Money says was a "financial disaster."
Reached by phone Friday, Hall said "American Idol" rules do not allow him to participate in any media interviews, however, he did generally confirm Money's account of events. Hall is scheduled to perform Wednesday on "Idol" with the top 12 male semifinalists.
Plans moved ahead to take the show on a national tour and Money said he tried to line up new backers. Several commitments fell through, however, and the show ended abruptly.
Meanwhile, in several cities, auditions had already been held and children were looking forward to performing on stage in a real musical. Many parents had paid a $50 performance fee that was never returned.
In Lakeland, Fla., Jennifer Davis, who owns the Art in Motion Academy of Dance, said she was not even informed the show had been canceled. She found out when she opened the studio for a planned rehearsal and no one from "Oz" showed up.
"I don't believe (Hall) came to my studio knowing that the musical was going to go down and they would steal everyone's money, but it happened," she said.
"He could have at least called — explained what was going on."
That complaint was echoed by Rhonda McKissock, of Nolensville, Tenn., outside of Nashville, who paid $100 for her two daughters to participate.
"The sad part is, he's such a charismatic person, very talented," she said. "I would love to see him do well. But it's hard to say, 'Hey, great job!' when he's not doing what he promised to these kids."
Money said he was responsible for the finances of the production, not Hall. He said Hall tried to make amends to the disappointed children by putting together a smaller, less expensive show, but even that lost money.
Ron and Debbie Kennedy, owners of the Tutterow Dancers studio in St. Petersburg, Fla., said most of their students participated in the substitute production, "Nights on Broadway," and had a great time, but a few people chose not to participate and were disappointed about not getting a refund.
In the end, Money said, he couldn't afford to keep bankrolling the production and no one else stepped up to take his place.
"People don't understand, there's no devious plan to take these people's $50 and not deliver a show," he said. "I simply cannot afford to put any more money into that production."
Diana Messner, of Pittsburgh, paid $100 to have two children participate in a production that was supposed to take place there in September. She got in touch with Hall through Facebook, even talking to him on the phone, but was not satisfied with his explanation.
"He claims no responsibility," she said, adding Hall told her there were at least 1,000 children who lost their performance fees.
On July 10, Hall also sent Messner an e-mail in which he said he was worried the project was going to "jeopardize my reputation."
"I will assure you though that I'm doing everything in my power to return the money myself, even though as director it is not my direct responsibility to pay back this debt," he wrote.
Davis, the studio owner in Lakeland, Fla., said she hasn't been watching "American Idol" but some of the parents have kept her up on Hall's progress.
"I just don't think that it's fair if he ends up being the next 'American Idol,'" she said. ___ Associated Press Writer Janet Blake, in Louisville, Ky., contributed to this report.
I think the guys did MUCH better last night than the first night. I hope the girls can do the same tonight (because I disagree w/ Simon that the girls did better last week -- I don't think they did; of course that's no saying much)...
Yeah, absolutely. The girls did better than last week, but still not as well as the boys. But I cannot take the fact that half the contestants -- boys AND girls -- sound alike, with that warbly voice. Sounds fine, but not song after song after song. And they're praising people I didn't particularly like, and, shitting on people I liked. Conflicting advice and other BS isn't making this a good season at all. But of course I'm not gonna stop watching.
Ellen, tho, I've been pleasantly pleased with -- she seems to know what she's talking about (whether she's aping it or not, I don't now), and it's refreshing when she says she didn't like something (unlike Paula who never had a bad thing to say)...
I like the humor Ellen adds to her critiques. I don't know what her background in music is but she's doing a good job so far. I miss making fun of Paula though.
Wow, there are no superstars in this group. It might come down to who is the least mediocre. Crystal and Siobahn are the most unique so that might work for them. Big Mike has soul, but he has to do something special and Lee can rock, but he's a watered down Daughtry.
Ellen adds some humor, which is good. She is the anti-Simon, so it presents another perspective.
Interesting note (maybe). All minorities booted last night. Will we hear from Rev. Al Sharpton?
Well, Jermaine's faith must have been shaken last night. He was so convinced that God would save him. As Simon said, God doesn't vote for Idol contestants. Haley seemed like a sweet child, but her performance of "The Climb" (a freaking annoying song to begin with, although I might be biased by my deep dislike of everything Miley Cyrus) was the most awful performance ever on AI, and that includes anything Sanjaya ever did AND "Rockin' Robin" by that annoying girl with the tattooed arm last year.
As you all know I'm not a regular watcher of this show. I have watched a couple episodes mainly to see if my friend's son, Andrew Garcia, is still in the running. I got an e-mail from her last week so I assume he still is.
Anyway, I think Ellen is a nice addition to the group. She seems fair, honest and mostly "nice" (unlike Simon) when she doesn't like someone. What's the consensus on her performance, anyone know?
TIS, I don't know the public reviews, but I like her. The other judges, especially Kara and Simon, don't seem to like her. I don't know how much of that is real, or how much is "drama" for the audience.
Simon is often too brutal, but I actually like him. At least he can speak a coherent sentence.
WTF?? Am I the only one who thought Lily's performance of "I Fall To Pieces" was just HORRIBLE??? It was all over the place and she hit bad note after bad note. I thought she was bad and the first girl was bad. So was the girl in the middle who sang "Smile". That was awful.
IMO, Crystal and Siobhan are the best. Lacey was actually rather good tonight, too. Why Simon heaped praise on Lily and told Siobhan he didn't like her performance is beyond me. Is he smoking crack or what??
Yes TB, I think Simon is under the influence of something...Ellen maybe? I agree and hold to my previous review; Siobahn and Crystal are the girls to beat. Paige (Smile) was pitiful. Simon liked "Rhiannon" . Unless he's trying to even the playing field or create some interest. Clearly the talent this year is way below previous years.
The guys were mostly okay tonight. The biggest disappointment was Lee. I enjoyed Todrick's version of "Somebody To Love". At least he was entertaining. Big Mike had one great note, and I agree that he was feeling that song, but he's so huge that his dancing around was almost comical.
Btw, was Kara drinking out of Paula's old cup?? She's an absolute ass.
I thought the boys did fairly well tonight -- better than the girls this week.
But WTF?? That 16-year-old kid -- who I want to like -- has just been horrific the past couple weeks, yet the judges praise him. At the same time TIS's coworker's son (Garcia) is awesome, yet gets railed every week?? If I hear about his rendition of "Straight Up" one more fucking time I'm gonna lose it! JUDGE HIM FOR THE CURRENT SONG, not comparing him to one earlier (great) performance already!
Ellen's been great, as I said, so it's not her fault, but this season has SUCKED so far! Judges finally realizing they've been giving conflicting advice -- well, thanks for that; a little too late maybe?
In any event, I think the 4 leaving this week *should* be obvious. But America doesn't vote for obvious, so we'll have to see...
I am hoping that Paige and the first girl who sang (who is so unmemorable that I STILL don't know her name) get voted off and that Alex Lambert and Tim Urban (although he was actually not bad this week) go. If Paige's performance of "Smile" doesn't get her the boot, then I don't know what will. I also don't like Lacey, but my judgment on her can't be trusted. She reminds me of a clown, with that stupid hair and her whorish make-up, so she could be the greatest singer on earth and I would still hate her.
Kara is insane, Simon has been Cranky Old Man who obviously can't wait for this season to be over so he can stay home and count his millions, Randy is a moron, and that leaves us with Ellen. She's been one of the few voices of reason so far.
SB, you are a hoot....and I agree with most of your assessments. Lacey looks like she'd come from Garfield, NJ. Kah-ra, as Simon would say, has been a real dufus. She tries to sound so profound. She has turned into a mutation of Paula. Simon has mellowed a bit from his days of ..."you sound like a cat crying in the night" or "someone's drunken uncle who gets up to sing at a wedding."
Those tears last night after Big Mike sang?? Puh-leeze! Either they're trying to have Kara act more like Paula so people don't miss her, or she drank some of the Abdul Kool-Aid.
I actually liked it when Simon rated people that way. At least I felt like he was listening.
I can't believe that Lacey the ClownWhore made it through over Lily! And Tim "I'm channeling a 1980 Teen Idol with my hairdo" Urban over Todrick? Really?
I only watched it when Survivor had commercials. I'm glad Big Mike made it to the top 12. I thought he was suppose to be kicked off cuz his Dad spilled the beans.
I can't believe that Lacey the ClownWhore made it through over Lily! And Tim "I'm channeling a 1980 Teen Idol with my hairdo" Urban over Todrick? Really?
i hated the fact that lacey got in, and paige miles as well as tim urban...just asking has anybody checked VFTW?
By ROSALIE FOX, Associated Press Writer – Fri Mar 12, 7:59 pm ET
LOS ANGELES (AP — Tweens probably don't know who Patsy Cline is, which is why Lilly Scott thinks she was voted off "American Idol" Thursday night. Her last song was Cline's "I Fall to Pieces."
Scott joined her three fellow rejects in a Friday conference call with reporters and says her underground fan base probably supported her in their hearts but didn't actually vote.
Ousted singer Alex Lambert says he was just as surprised he didn't make it into the Top 12, since his fellow contestants convinced him he was a lock. Lambert says he was so nervous that he couldn't sing his best.
Katelyn Epperly says she's going back to Des Moines, Iowa, to work because she's "flat broke" — but will keep writing music.
And Todrick Hall says he's campaigning to be on the TV show "Glee."
I really hope that last sentence doesn't happen.
Aaron Kelly -- as I said, I wanted him to do well -- just didn't, and while Lambert was annoying in large doses, his voice was unique, even likable in small doses, and definitely better overall. Neither will/would win, though.
It's because they sang "Somebody To Love" on the show, and Randy mentioned it during the judges' comments after Todrick's performance. He figures that maybe he has a chance.
Ha ha! Really????? I just can't imagine anyone but Mick singing that one. I can't see Andrew prancing around the stage with the mic doing Jager type moves. I guess I'd be too critical if I were a judge tonight. I'll try to tune in though and catch a few numbers.
TIS, I think that the performances so far have been better than in the last few weeks. I missed the first 10 minutes or so, but all the singers have been very impressive.
They are down to the best of the bunch now no? How many are in the running now? And, are there separate contests for male/female? I ask that because it seems one week they eliminated female and the other males.
Now that they have their Top 12, they don't vote off boys or girls, just the contestant with the lowest number of votes is eliminated. The Top 10 get to go on tour, though, so that's the next hurdle for the contestants.
Now I know why SB calls Lacey a clownwhore. How did she make the top 12? Siobhan had a nice Goth look tonight. Big Mike was great. Tim will probably be on VFTW again. I think Paige will be on VFTW to. I thought Andrew did good. Kara needs to stfu about him.
Well, I managed to see the first half so far. Most of them aren't bad, but nobody jumps out as being exceptional. Andrew just sang and he, like most of the others, doesn't have a bad voice. But, what do I know. Don't know if I'll watch the second half.
I like Ellen. She's probably the nicest judge. Who is this Kera anyway? She seems like a know it all.
Paint It Black was awful!!! The worse so far.(ha ha and they are saying it's the best) I didn't like it at all.
TIS
On the flip side, I like the guy singing "Beast Of Burden". He has a good voice and sounds professional. Good job!! Paige did well with Honky Tonk Woman too
Ok, one of my favorite Songs, Angie, was also very good. The kid is so young but has a very powerful voice.
Second half has the better talent IMHO.
Ok, she's still singing but my guess is the judges will love her. Last girl singing my favorite Stones song "You Can't Always Get What You Want." Her voice is not bad but she's slaughtering the song IMHO.
TIS, they've been told over and over by the judges that they have to "make the song their own" by changing the arrangements so that it doesn't sound "karaoke". What ends up happening is that their version ends up pissing off fans of the original.
The singer you're referencing (the last girl) is Crystal. She is my favorite girl and the guy who sang "Beast of Burden" is Lee, and I think he's my favorite boy.
Who is this Kera anyway? She seems like a know it all.
TIS
You're Hoot #2 (SB is #1). Her name is Kara. She's primarily a songwriter, but she sings too. Last year she did a neat little dance number revealing a bikini under her dress. I find her sexy in an annoying way. She will be appearing in Atlantic City at the Borgata Hotel Music Box Theatre on April 9, 10. Its a great venue for music. Seats about 1,000. I saw Crosby and Nash there a couple of years ago. Kara has taken over Paula's job of blathering on and on and trying sound profound.
You're Hoot #2 (SB is #1). Her name is Kara. She's primarily a songwriter, but she sings too. Last year she did a neat little dance number revealing a bikini under her dress. I find her sexy in an annoying way. She will be appearing in Atlantic City at the Borgata Hotel Music Box Theatre on April 9, 10. Its a great venue for music. Seats about 1,000. I saw Crosby and Nash there a couple of years ago. Kara has taken over Paula's job of blathering on and on and trying sound profound.
I don't watch "American Idol," but my cousin used to cut her Kara's hair up in Scarsdale before anyone knew who she was. I believe she grew up in that area (either Scarsdale or New Rochelle). I'm told she's a very nice girl, from a good Italian-Albanian family.
I can't believe how my rankings differed from the judges. My friend Mer and I kept wondering how the hell we were hearing something different than the judges were!
In any event, here are my rankings for the week. It was difficult because no one really blew it out of the water.
Code:
A- Lee "Beast of Burden"
B+ Crystal "You Can't Always Get What You Want"
B+ Tim "Under My Thumb"
B+ Katie "Wild Horses"
B Siobhan "Paint It Black"
B Michael "Miss You"
B- Aaron "Angie"
B- Paige "Honky Tonk Woman"
C+ Andrew "Gimme Shelter"
C Casey "It's All Over Now"
C- Didi "Play With Fire"
C- Lacey "Ruby Tuesday"
Lee sounded exactly like John Cougar, maybe that's why I liked him. Crystal was great as always, but needs to mix it up more. Tim's reggae rendition I liked, but the judges hated. Katie in the pixie dress wasn't spectacular, but it was the best up 'til that point. Siobhan was pitchy throughout the awkward arrangement, but it was unique/showy. Big Michael "Jackson" is always good, but his MJ impressions were a bit weird. Aaron was better than in previous weeks, but I still don't see/hear what the judges love about him. Paige, unbeknownst with laryngitis, sang rough lows and flat highs. Andrew is still a favorite, but was pitchy and flat in spots. Casey sounded good, but so do a lot of bar band singers. Didn't blow me away. Didi & Lacey, I'm convinced, are the same person. They both warble their way thru.
Goodbye clownwhore. VFTW worked tonight cuz Tim made it through. I thought for sure that Paige would've left.
I've never heard of those singers they had tonight. The one that sung that Blah Blah Blah song gave me a big headache.
i really hate VFTW...i want the worst gone not the middle. yea i agree with that...why do they get people on there that i never heard off? why couldn't they get the rolling stones them selfs to perform?
i have some bad news...next week's theme is teen idols...next week is going to suck!!
Now BAM don't get critical before it happens. With this group I don't think it matters what the category is. Teen Idol is a fairly broad category if you take it back to the 40's or 50's. Frank Sinatra was a Teen Idol, so was Elvis, Ricky Nelson, the Beatles......and the list goes on.
i have some bad news...next week's theme is teen idols...next week is going to suck!!
Now BAM don't get critical before it happens. With this group I don't think it matters what the category is. Teen Idol is a fairly broad category if you take it back to the 40's or 50's. Frank Sinatra was a Teen Idol, so was Elvis, Ricky Nelson, the Beatles......and the list goes on.
well i was thinking of the current teen idol's because yea...i wasnt thinking about the past teen idols.
I was thinking past teen idols too. Must be a generational thing. Out here, every now and then they have a teen idol show (don't know what the official billing is) but it consists usually of Frankie Avalon, Bobby Rydell and Fabian. I think they've played at local casinos here in California.
Then again, it could be today's teen idols of which others may be more informed. I didn't know if "teen idol" was an old phrase used more to refer to singers of my generation or if they still use it.
And Miley "I can't sing to save my life" Cyrus is guest-starring. I can't stand untalented ass. I admire her ability to create a billion dollar empire despite her suckiness, but still...
It was either last season or the one before, Miley sang "The Climb" live on Idol. It was caterwauling, and that's a compliment. She was awful. Unfortunately, many of these performers are finding out that "live" is not a good idea for them.
I can not believe how popular Miley Cyrus is. My grandaughters are only 6 & 8 and they love her and watch the show with her and her dad. I have only heard parts of songs and don't really know titles of any of her music. From what I heard, I didn't think her voice was too bad.
Unfortunately, many of these performers are finding out that "live" is not a good idea for them.
Oh, how true. You have to go to Broadway to hear great, live singing on a consistent basis; especially where the understudies and the last person in the chorus can outsing any of these duds.
Last night's episode was a gigantic snoozefest. Big Mike sang one of my very favorite songs. How he could manage to turn "When A Man Loves A Woman" into sexless elevator music is beyond me. He didn't hit any wrong notes or anything, but yuk.
I didn't get the tongue-bath that Siobhan received from the judges either. I thought it was a shrieky mess. And I thought that Didi was sexy and adorable, and didn't get why the judges hated her. I also enjoyed Lee Dewyze.
Crystal Bowersox was effortless and incredible. While there were other enjoyable performances, nobody came close to her.
I think Crystal is the one to beat this season. It seems no matter what Andrew does he can't please the judges. Paige looked so pretty but she and Tim are struggling big time.
Well, overall I think this week was better. Not incredibly exciting, but better vocally. Very predictable choices this week, too. I'm in some disagreement w/ Babe and Mig in spots. Miley was pretty worthless; is Justin Bieber the next mentor?
IMHO:
Code:
A Mike "When A Man Loves A Woman"
A- Crystal "Me & Bobby McGee"
B+ Casey "Power of Love"
B Siobhan "Superstition"
B Tim "Crazy Little Thing Called Love"
B Lee "The Letter"
B Andrew "Heard It Through The Grapevine"
C+ Aaron "I Don't Want To Miss A Thing"
C Didi "You're No Good"
C- Katie "Big Girls Don't Cry"
F Paige "Against All Odds"
Mike & Crystal made very predictable choices, but did them very well. Casey did a sound-alike performance, well. Siobhan took a risk with Stevie Wonder. Good version a little flat. Bad hair. Tim didn't warble for once. Swingy-crooner vibe. Judges up his ass, tho. Lee's jazzy version was good. Andrew is hated by the judges yet again; "Straight Up" mentioned AGAIN!! Aaron (w/ alleged tonsillitis AND laryngitis?!) improved, but no range. Didi was also predictable. Same notes as last week. Simon too harsh w/ song title. Katie was okay, but flat in spots. Paige NEEDS TO GO!!
By DERRIK J. LANG, AP Entertainment Writer – Wed Mar 24, 5:15 am ET LOS ANGELES – "American Idol" finalist Crystal Bowersox is on a roll.
The 24-year-old musician and single mother of Toledo, Ohio, earned the judges' highest praise on the Fox singing competition Tuesday for her traditional take on Janis Joplin's "Me and Bobby McGee" — all from a homey carpet rolled out on the "Idol" stage.
Simon Cowell told her he wouldn't have changed a thing, but the other judges wanted a bigger reaction.
"These people love you," pleaded Ellen DeGeneres. "Take it all in and respond."
Paige Miles was a long way from getting any love from the judges, who were equally against the smiley 24-year-old preschool teacher from Houston.
Randy Jackson said her rendition of Mariah Carey's "Against All Odds" was "honestly terrible" while all DeGeneres could compliment was Miles' ability to stay standing on the stage in a pair of high heels.
"You didn't fall down," said DeGeneres, "and that's a good thing."
Also slipping even further out of favor with the judging panel was Tim Urban, the shaggy-haired 20-year-old college student from Duncanville, Texas. He punctuated his performance of Queen's "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" by sliding across the stage on his knees.
Kara DioGuardi and DeGeneres compared his acrobatic exploits to a bad "High School Musical" audition, while Jackson declared: "The dopest thing that you did was the slide, dude."
Several singers, however, stayed in the panel's good graces, including 23-year-old Lee Dewyze of Mount Prospect, Ill., with The Box Tops' "The Letter;" 16-year-old Aaron Kelly of Sonestown, Pa., with Aerosmith's "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing;" and 27-year-old Casey James of Fort Worth, Texas, with Huey Lewis and The News' "The Power Of Love."
"You're just ready to make an album," DioGuardi informed James.
The judges again voiced their frustration with 24-year-old musician Andrew Garcia of Moreno Valley, Calif., after he turned in an awkward rendition of Marvin Gaye's "Heard It Through the Grapevine." They also weren't fans of a sexed-up theatrical version of Linda Ronstadt's "You're No Good" by 23-year-old waitress Didi Benami of Los Angeles.
"It was like a musical," said Cowell, "the bad part of a musical."
Unless the judges decide to save a singer, another finalist will be eliminated Wednesday based on viewer votes. ___ Fox is a unit of News Corp. ___ On the Net: • American Idol, http://www.americanidol.com/
I hope Miley is a better actress than she is a singer. Bye Paige you tried at least. I guess Tim will stick around for a bit. And he gets to go on tour.
TIS, your former coworker was on Idol tonight. She got pissed when Simon called her son boring and started to heckle him. Ryan came and got her out of the audience so she could yell at Simon to his face. I also thought that Andrew gave one of his best performances to date.
Good Performances - Andrew, Casey, Lee and Big Mike.
Best of the Night - Crystal. Her "Midnight Train To Georgia" was simply perfect.
Ha ha ha!! Really? I am not surprised. Can you give me an approximate of when he sang? I really am not interested in watching the whole thing, but I'd love to see that so I can at least call her or e-mail her about it.
I only saw half of it. Andrew sounded good. He has a nice voice. The black guy,don't know is name but he too has a good voice.
I think Mary Garcia said she "wanted to slap Simon." I e-mailed her to tease her. According to one of the news websites last night (maybe Yahoo), there referred to Andrew's mom as "bat crazy!" Is that kind of mean? Funny though!
I don't think anyone did that badly this week, yet only a couple stood out above the others. IMHO:
Code:
B+ Andrew "Forever"
B Lee "Treat Her Like a Lady"
B Katie "Chain of Fools"
B Crystal "Midnight Train to Georgia"
B Casey "Hold On I'm Coming"
B- Tim "Sweet Love"
C+ Mike "Read For Love"
C Aaron "Ain't No Sunshine"
C Didi "What Becomes of a Broken Heart"
C- Siobhan "Through the Fire"
In singing order:
Siobhan was disappointing as I like her. Screams were okay, but weak/pitchy/flat lows. Casey was distracting because he didn't stop smiling. Good vox, but a little White. Mike, who's one of my Top 3 favorites, was blah. Not right song choice. Didi's snooze-fest might indicate she's almost outta here. B3 for sure. Tim had some rough spots but I like his voice. I don't get the hatred, though. Andrew is back! And only a brief mention of "that song" afterwards. Katie was a'ight, better than last week, but she's no Aretha. Lee had good, rockin' vox (if not original), esp. w/ "Walking Pneumonia" (really? C'mon) Crystal didn't blow me away as usual, but still a top contender. Aaron wasn't that bad, but that fake vibrato is killing me!
I know I rated Siobhan the lowest, but I don't think she should go. I think Didi should go next. Tim will undeservedly be in the B3 again, though I think my B3 above should be it, with Didi going.
I was talking about last night. If it's on again tonight, it hasn't aired here yet. Which is weird that you see it first, because I thought it was filmed live in California. What is he singing?
I was talking about last night. If it's on again tonight, it hasn't aired here yet. Which is weird that you see it first, because I thought it was filmed live in California. What is he singing?
TIS
i know you were talking bout last nights episode i just asked if you were watching the one tonight lol. well teflon tim lives for another week.
The WORST are the ones that are getting voted off each week -- the ones I have been picking each week as the worst. THOSE are the worst.
Tim WILL be the worst at some point, though, of course. He's not gonna win this, nor are 8 of the others. But until he IS the worst, I think ppl should give him a break.
The WORST are the ones that are getting voted off each week -- the ones I have been picking each week as the worst. THOSE are the worst.
Tim WILL be the worst at some point, though, of course. He's not gonna win this, nor are 8 of the others. But until he IS the worst, I think ppl should give him a break.
I thought everyone was doing well this week, and was giving B's to everyone, until Casey sang. I should go back and change all those previous B's to C's, but will leave it as originally scored. Casey, though, was in a league of his own last night. A real star.
Code:
A Casey "Jealous Guy"
A- Siobhan "Across The Universe"
B+ Tim "All My Lovin'"
B Aaron "The Long & Winding Road"
B Crystal "Come Together"
B Mike "Eleanor Rigby"
B Lee "Hey Jude"
B Andrew "Can't Buy Me Love"
B- Katie "Let It Be"
I had to rank them somehow, despite really liking some on the bottom.
Aaron was gruffer than DA, his best performance yet. Judges railed him for doing exactly what DA did. What?? and then Katie does the exact same thing (slower/older song) and gets praised for it. Judges can eat me. Andrew I liked a lot, but judges were probably right. Can't screw up that song. Mike can't beat DC's version. I didn't feel a connection. Good vox, tho. Crystal was good, but didn't blow my "sox" off. Same each week. Tim had good vox, but it felt kind of old fashioned. Casey was awesome. Siobhan looked like a real Celine Dion out there, but no one can touch Rufus' rendition. Restrained, but good. Lee was breathy and flat, his voice good, but the spectacle w/ the bagpipes was uh... okay.
Idol is really scraping bottom if Adam what-am-I Lambert is the guest mentor. Idol has hit bottom. Big Mike is a Luther Vandross-Reuben Studdard retred. Let's face it, last night proves that Idols is in control; what votes? They need the dramatic effect to save the show from going where Blockbuster is headed.
Casey was awesome. Siobhan looked like a real Celine Dion out there, but no one can touch Rufus' rendition. Restrained, but good.
I played the entire night (of singing; not comments) for my best friend -- a Beatles expert -- who somehow hates vocal music unless it's Pet Sounds (huh??) but he agreed that Casey did great. He thought Siobhan was "the worst he's ever heard" -- I disagree, there have been plenty worse -- but even he agreed that even John (he claimed it was a demo) didn't sing it like Rufus Wainwright -- the be-all and end-all rendition that should never be attempted by anyone again. I guess like any Stevie Wonder, or many MJ songs.
I didn't to see the shows this week. Tuesday I was in KY visiting family and Wednesday I was at my kids darts tournament in VA. Which they won btw. Big mike was in the B-2? I'm glad he was saved though. I guess I need to start calling in.
I thought that was one of the best episodes this season. I was impressed with Crystal, Lee, Tim and Big Mike. I didn't get why they panned Casey. I was impressed with his performance. I missed Katie's performance, but with the exception of Andrew, didn't think any of them did poorly.
I agree with SB except for Tim. I'm hopeing he'll go home tomorrow.
Mig, I love you and all... but this Tim-hating thing has to stop. It's totaly unfounded! He was GREAT!! One of the best of the night!! Stop listening to VFTW and listen with your own ears next time.
My notes will come tomorrow -- they're longer cuz I started to include judge's lines. And without my notes I see I'm still in a minority (Big Mike didn't move me; his performance didn't hit home -- it wasn't believable again this week, regardless of how well he sang it.)
I agree with SB except for Tim. I'm hopeing he'll go home tomorrow.
Mig, I love you and all... but this Tim-hating thing has to stop. It's totaly unfounded! He was GREAT!! One of the best of the night!! Stop listening to VFTW and listen with your own ears next time.
Geoffy my dear I love you to but VFTW has nothing to do with this. I'll admit he sung better last night but he is still not that great.
Sorry I missed Elvis night. I did get to see brief clips at the end of the show. The girl who sang "I'm Saved" sounded pretty good as did the guy who sang "Blue Suede Shoes. Andrew Garcia could have picked a better song though.
VFTW stands for Vote For the Worst - a website solely dedicated to messing up AI's system by directing its followers to vote for the worst singer (in their opinion) in the competition. They will say they do it to stand up against Idol's not-so-subtle favoritism.
Then VFTW should have picked Andrew. I was impressed with him at the beginning of the season, but he has just not lived up to his promise. He's got a good voice, but his performances just lack something. I hope he goes tonight. It's hard to decide who else should, but I think perhaps it's Aaron. They pick these young kids who can't possibly have the maturity to deliver stellar performances, and then they are chewed up and spit out by the AI machine. It's sad.
Another tough week to rank, but I think I know who should go in tonight's double-elimination, despite them being early favorites of mine. Reviews now include judges' comments.
Code:
A Crystal "Saved"
A- Siobhan "Suspicious Minds"
B+ Tim "Can't Help Falling In Love"
B Casey "Lawdy Miss Claudy"
B Aaron "Blue Suede Shoes"
B Mike "In The Ghetto"
B Lee "Little Less Conversation"
C- Andrew "Hound Dog"
C- Katie "Baby, What Do You Want Me To Do"
Crystal had great vox as usual, energetic, one of her best. Randy: Dope, loved it; E: Great, fantastic; K: Good things; S: Original, great
Andrew never kicked it in; still like his voice, but he hasn't been stepping it up. R: Not good karaoke, pitchy; E: Needed more swagger, liked it; K: Didn't own it, some nice places; S: Lazy, not a star performance
Tim started out annoyingly staccato in the beginning but kicked it in nicely; nice guitar work; theatrical voice R: Actually liked it; E: Really enjoyed it, beautiful; K: Authentic, real, current, favorite Tim performance; S: Zero to Hero
Lee is always good, but didn't stand out. Bar-bandish. R: In the zone, amazing, great; E: Current, better & better; K: Loved it, went for it, too stiff; S: On the money, full-stop
Aaron picked a safe choice, but it got "sexier" later on; one of his best. R: Liked 2nd half; E: A for Effort, good, not all the way there; K: Out of comfort zone, liked it, current; S: Old fashioned, karaoke
Siobhan is the old-school diva of the group. She grew on me, and we need someone like her. R: Kinda liked, big vocals; E: Beautiful voice; K: Have 2 voices? Not crazy about it; S: First part terrible, screechy
Mike had good vox as usual, but against this week I didn't feel a connection with the song. R: Little sleepy, hot vox; E: Glad we saved you; K: Beautiful, sung well; S: Million billion times better than last week
Katie I like, but she had the weakest, poorest voice so far. Time to go. R: Nice vox, liked it; E: Horny song, had lots of horns in it; K: You showed us, good job; S: Loud and annoying
Casey shot par for his course. Good, but a bit boring. R: In the zone, solid; E: Love voice, not exciting; K: Fell short; S: Good vox, but wasted opportunity
So, while I've liked Andrew from the beginning, unfortunately I think it's his time to go (sorry, TIS ;)). Katie should go as well. I have Lee rounding out the Bottom 3, going by this week alone.
So on the subject, I haven't been paying attention to American Idol that much this year, but should probably look into it considering I'm doing PR work in the entertainment industry now. That's what has kept me away.
BTW: you guyz have some killer frickin quotes. I love Mignon's and Geoff's, haha! Awesome Stuff! Nice to see this place is still alive.
The contestants do an okay Elvis medley. I could swear it's lip-synced because Crystal's lips never matched the vocal while others seemed to. Maybe it's just me seeing things, or my DVR playing tricks (wouldn't be the first time).
Casey, Aaron, Andrew are brought onto the stage and Andrew's given the boot right away. Aaron & Casey are safe.
Footage of Elliott Yamin and Kara in Africa help inspire for next week's Idol Gives Back show.
Brooke White & underwear model/ex-Miley Cyrus-dating/singer Justin Gaston perform Elvis's "If I Can Dream"
Ryan calls the Bottom Row to the stage (Tim, Crystal, Mike, Katie, Siobhan, Lee)
Crystal, Siobhan, Lee are safe.
Adam Lambert performs his hit "What Do You Want From Me"
B3 = Tim, Mike, Katie; Tim is safe
B2 = Mike & Katie, altho Ryan says the person staying is NOT in the Bottom 3 of voting. Katie's gone, Mike's safe.
My #8 and #9
Next Week: Inspirational Songs w/ Alicia Keys, and Idol Gives Back
Well, I'm not surprised Andrew got the boot. I didn't watch all his performances, but knew that the judges were disappointed in the end, and considered him "boring." Still, what a thrill for anybody to last that long.
Btw, in the end, what is the prize AND is there only one prize or are there any consolation prizes? Will Andrew just go home or will he get anything?????
Annie
Oh, and FWIW, and just my opinion, "If I Can Dream" is one of my favorite EP songs. I don't think anyone else could sing it and even come close to the excellent original by Elvis.
TIS, the winner gets a guaranteed recording contract which usually ends up in a solid career. Many runners-up often get signed as well (if they were good/popular) and go on to have successful careers as well. As a major sponsor, Ford usually gives the Top 2 cars. What they all get is huge exposure and the chance to make a name for themselves. And for Andrew, I don't know if he'll get signed, but I'm sure if he worked harder at it he could have a chance.
This past weekend Kara did two shows at the A.C. Borgata in the Music Box Theatre. Her first ever public concerts. The reviews were favorable. They liked her singing. She did a little story telling before each song. Show was 75 minutes. Personally, I think she is one hot chick; sultry.
So, can we just have a finale between Lee and Crystal, as the judges obviously want, and then give Crystal the crown? This way, we can all be done and get on with our lives. She is so head and shoulders above the rest of the contestants that it's ridiculous. Watching them back, it was only made even more obvious.
Obviously, only one of them are going home, but let's say it's Aaron, or maybe Tim, here's something for the rest. Casey, stop with the guitar. You make yourself look like every other guy in a country/western bar. Mike, buy some clothes that fit. Your fat rolls are distracting. Siobhan, wear an outfit that doesn't have leaves or butterflies and pick a song that isn't by Whitney Houston.
So, can we just have a finale between Lee and Crystal, as the judges obviously want, and then give Crystal the crown? This way, we can all be done and get on with our lives. She is so head and shoulders above the rest of the contestants that it's ridiculous. Watching them back, it was only made even more obvious.
Obviously, only one of them are going home, but let's say it's Aaron, or maybe Tim, here's something for the rest. Casey, stop with the guitar. You make yourself look like every other guy in a country/western bar. Mike, buy some clothes that fit. Your fat rolls are distracting. Siobhan, wear an outfit that doesn't have leaves or butterflies and pick a song that isn't by Whitney Houston.
im not betting on anybody yet...crystal still could leave, and i dont trust the votes right now.
A- Crystal "People Get Ready"
B Aaron "I Believe I Can Fly"
B Lee "The Boxer"
B- Casey "Don't Stop"
C+ Siobhan "When You Believe"
C Tim "Better Days"
C- Mike "Hero"
Casey is consistently good, but consistently unoriginal. R: Good, not best, same every week; E: Good, not great; K: Jam band, not different; S: Not inspiring, no originality
Lee stood out this time; good, but not perfect. R: Great artist; E: Soul, depth; K: Connected, had his "moment"; S: Staggering difference from Casey, brilliant
Tim was a little pitchy, but okay. R: Okay karaoke; E: Didn't like the soup (of the day); K: Not best execution; S: Didn't believe performance, little bit of a letdown
Aaron took on a big song, and did very well with it. He's not winning this, though. R: Giant song, huge voice; E: You can fly, real good; K: You hit it, got there; S: Took guts, but not current
Siobhan wasn't as good as usual, but she's the reigning diva. R: Probably toughest song, just okay; E: Disagrees w/ Randy; K: Too dramatic, who are you?; S: Not right song, old-fashioned
Mike sang karaoke. Disconnected as usual. Probably time to go, unfortunately. R: Held your own; E: Great job; K: Not my favorite performance, wrong tone; S: Sang it pretty well, but it felt artificial
Crystal glistens as always. A Capella opening was awesome. R: Unbelievable (standing-O); E: More and more beautiful; K: You schooled all those contestants; S: That was inspirational, fantastic, different class
Wednesday: Idol Gives Back. Last time there wasn't an elimination on this day, so we'll have to see -- perhaps 2 will go next week again.
A- Crystal "People Get Ready"
B Aaron "I Believe I Can Fly"
B Lee "The Boxer"
B- Casey "Don't Stop"
C+ Siobhan "When You Believe"
C Tim "Better Days"
C- Mike "Hero"
Casey is consistently good, but consistently unoriginal. R: Good, not best, same every week; E: Good, not great; K: Jam band, not different; S: Not inspiring, no originality
Lee stood out this time; good, but not perfect. R: Great artist; E: Soul, depth; K: Connected, had his "moment"; S: Staggering difference from Casey, brilliant
Tim was a little pitchy, but okay. R: Okay karaoke; E: Didn't like the soup (of the day); K: Not best execution; S: Didn't believe performance, little bit of a letdown
Aaron took on a big song, and did very well with it. He's not winning this, though. R: Giant song, huge voice; E: You can fly, real good; K: You hit it, got there; S: Took guts, but not current
Siobhan wasn't as good as usual, but she's the reigning diva. R: Probably toughest song, just okay; E: Disagrees w/ Randy; K: Too dramatic, who are you?; S: Not right song, old-fashioned
Mike sang karaoke. Disconnected as usual. Probably time to go, unfortunately. R: Held your own; E: Great job; K: Not my favorite performance, wrong tone; S: Sang it pretty well, but it felt artificial
Crystal glistens as always. A Capella opening was awesome. R: Unbelievable (standing-O); E: More and more beautiful; K: You schooled all those contestants; S: That was inspirational, fantastic, different class
Wednesday: Idol Gives Back. Last time there wasn't an elimination on this day, so we'll have to see -- perhaps 2 will go next week again.
Wanda Sykes does a short stand-up (gotta love her!)
Siobhan, Mike & Tim = Tim is B3, Siobhan and Mike are safe
Mary J Blige, Randy Jackson, Steve Vai, et al., perform "Stairway to Heaven"
Elton John performs one of the best songs ever written: "Your Song"
B3 = Casey, Tim, Aaron. Aaron is safe. B2 = Casey & Tim. Mig finally gets her wish; Tim's out.
I almost had it right, Tim was my #6 of 7. I thought Mike did worse this week, but also knew he wasn't going home. So I guess I'm right anyway? lol.
Idol Gives Back footage scattered throughout was heart wrenching. And I'm glad I DVR'd the 10 o'clock news after Ryan said we should cuz it'd go over. It sure did, by almost 30 minutes!
Wanda Sykes and George Lopez provided the much-needed relief from that heart-breaking footage. It even appeared as if Simon has a heart!!
Geoff, the Black Eyed Peas are a guilty pleasure of mine, but they were just horrible last night. And Mary J?? I like you, but don't take on Zeppelin. And not just "A" Zeppelin song, but "The" Zeppelin song. Don't ever do that again.
I like Shania Twain, but has she really recorded enough songs to make her a theme??
AI has been a bore for me this year. I caught snippets last night. I would like Fergie to put me in leg lock, yeow! Wanda Sykes is tooooooo.....?? But she was funny. I hope I don't have to go to the Idol show this year at Boardwalk Hall
I didn't understand the tongue bath the judges gave Siobhan. I thought she was out of tune and shrieky. My favorite two performances were Casey and Lee. Otherwise, a sea of meh. I didn't even love Crystal tonight.
I didn't get to watch it tonight. My in-laws drove 2 hours to my house to make me a couple days worth of food for supper so I wouldn't have to cook during this sad time for me.
B+ Casey "Don't"
B Aaron "You've Got A Way"
B- Mike "It Only Hurts When I'm Breathing"
C+ Lee "You're Still The One"
C- Crystal "No One Needs To Know"
D+ Siobhan "Any Man of Mine"
Lee was a little boring; didn't feel it. R: A little pitchy, pretty good; E: Better than pretty good; K: Relevant, good job; S: Perfect song, hesitant in the beginning
Mike had good vox, better than recent weeks. R: Found zone, great job; E: Like Luther Vandross, beautiful; K: Connection, great job; S: A little 'wet' (girly) [huh?]
Casey was in his element. Good, but original? Could be a radio hit today, tho. R: One of your best; E: Beautiful, best to date; K: Vulnerable, raw - keep it up; S: Your best so far
Crystal was out of her element. Not feeling country from her. Her worst? R: Not favorite; E: Nothing you can't do; K: Impossible not to be good, believable; S: limp, coffee shop, no connection
Aaron - I liked it, he had a good voice. Surprising. R: Really good, a country artist [huh?]; E: Emotion, depth, maturity; K: Really felt it; S: Struggled last week, tonight you're different, sincere, believable
Siobhan should have been better, but wasn't. Some bad parts. Her worst, by far, and I like her in general. R: Loved it; E: Good, fantastic; K: Guess who's back!; S: Liked song, scream too much, fun.
Okay, so, we're obviously getting down to the wire. Some favorite has to go. Based on this week alone, despite the judges praise, I'd say Siobhan. But I otherwise generally like her. I also generally like Aaron, but he's obviously the weakest in this group (and by weakest, I mean he has the least Star Power. In fact, he has none at all). Crystal disappointed me this week, but she's not going anywhere. Mike rebounded, and barely beat out Lee (for me). Casey is the obvious front runner.
My B3 for the week = Siobhan, Crystal, Lee My B3 overall at this point = Aaron, Siobhan, Mike My B3 prediction = Siobhan, Aaron, Lee My B2 prediction = Siobhan, Aaron My B1 prediction = Siobhan
BUT all the judges praised her. Why? I don't know. One big final note does not an American Idol make.
Three groups of 2: Siobhan in Group 1, Aaron in Group 2, Mike in Group 3 Lee in Group 1, Casey in Group 3, Crystal in Group 2
Siobhan is moved to Group 3, which are the Bottom 3
Sons of Sylvia perform "Love Left To Lose" -- OMG! These are The Clark Brothers from The Next Great American Band competition in 2007 and I thought they were great then. Not so much now.
Lady Antebellum (nice name - it's always good to pick something memorable and easy to spell) performs "Need You Now"
Rascal Flatts backs up Shakira in something awful.
B3 = Mike, Casey (My #1 pick for the week!), Siobhan. Mike is safe. B2 = Casey & Siobhan. Siobhan's out (I actually felt a bit sad, though I did have her in last place this week -- right again ;)), but of course Casey deserves to go on.
It's getting tougher and tougher. 5 left.
Next Week: Harry Connick Jr mentors for SINATRA WEEK (Hear that, TIS?? )
Last week I thought Aaron's time was coming up fast, but he'll probably do well with Sinatra, and I wish him well. Big Mike's on a short leash, tho he's been pretty good the past couple weeks. Casey might have a problem, but he should beat out Lee. Crystal, well... Crystal.
Funny how the judges wanted/thought that it'd be a girl's year this year -- and it might well be -- but there's only 1 girl left!
I hope to see this Sinatra show. Each contestant gets to choose which Sinatra song he/she will do????
I heard from my co-worker from the school. Andrew Garcia apparently came in to see his mom, and everyone treated him like a celeb. Even some students asked for his autograph. That's gotta be a good feeling.
Believe it or not I watched the whole thing. . Here's my take. Oh, and did you all see Tina & Nancy in the audience??
1. Eric - Fly Me To The Moon - I love that song and I thought he did very well. He has a nice voice although I am not quite sure if it's changed yet. How old is this kid?
2.Casey - I liked the one or two other times I saw him perform, and I think he sounds good, but he wasn't that good on this song. I kind of agreed with the judges here.
3.Crystal - Summer Wind - Booooooo. It was awful. Something was out of whack. The music and the singing didn't jive at all to me. It sounded like a rehearsal and they were tuning up or something.
4. Michael - The Way You Look Tonight - An ok performance IMHO. Michael has a nice smooth voice, but this song was too bla or something. I can't put my finger on it. I like Sinatra's version much better. I don't understand why the judges all fawned over him for this performance anyway.
5.Lee - That's Life - Another one of my favorite Sinatra songs. I really think this is a brave choice for a novice to choose. He didn't do too badly though.
Oh, and fwiw, that Kera or Kara or whatever her name is, is a bitch. I forgot who she was, but she loves to hear herself talk and loves to tell people to find themselves or shine thru or some bullshit. She blows big time.
All and all, no outstanding performances to me, but I'd go with the first performer, Eric.
I really didn't expect anyone to blow me away this week, except that maybe Aaron and Mike would fit in the best. One slightly disappointed, the other was okay at best. Really tough to be "current" with Sinatra, and only one of the five delivered that, IMHO:
Code:
B+ Lee "That's Life"
B Mike "The Way You Look Tonight"
B- Crystal "Summer Wind"
C Casey "Blue Skies"
C- Aaron "Fly Me To The Moon"
Funny how my ratings went in order, from worst to best, in order of performance. But it's more complicated than that.
Aaron did "okay", but I didn't feel it, and I thought it was a little pitchy. R: Really good job; E: Really pulled that off, beautiful; K: Good, but not as strong as last week, need more charisma; S: No conviction, but tried hard
Casey was obviously out of his element, but decent vocals. R: Worst performance, pitchy; E: Felt stiff; K: Took too long to relax, vibrato sounds like a lamb; S: Not fantastic, looked embarrassed and awkward
Okay, so right away I thought they're picking their favorites. They've always liked Aaron (I have, mostly, at least lately), but Aaron has ZERO star quality. I thought Casey did a bit better than Aaron, but judges hated it. As usual. Anyway...
Crystal's performance seemed awkward, with some timing issues. Decent vocals, but a snoozefest. R: Subdued, sleepy; E: Impressive, many different sides; K: Kinda liked it, phrasing issue; S: Second half better than first, "okay", didn't use opportunity to win it
Mike SHOULD HAVE nailed it, but didn't. Everyone so far sounded shaky, including Big Mike. R: Unbelievable, in it to win it; E: Most comfortable, look/sound the part; K: Took us on a journey but didn't lose self; S: First three contestants were okay until now, fantastic
Again, what were the judges listening to?? But then there was...
Lee did great, reminded me of Billy Joel again and often. Best of the night. R: Stayed your rocker self, loved it; E: If this was the finale you would've won it; K: You can win this thing (if you believe); S: 110% by far best of the night.
Well, at least we agree there.
Now, who's to go home? My B3 is Aaron, Casey and Crystal. Crystal isn't going anywhere. Casey has been on the verge for a couple weeks now, so it's possible. I think it'll boil down to who has the most fans, Aaron or Casey. Aaron will NOT win this, tho Casey has a chance. Aaron probably should go home next, and it'd be a shame no matter who does have to leave at this point, but it's his time.
1. Eric - Fly Me To The Moon - I love that song and I thought he did very well. He has a nice voice although I am not quite sure if it's changed yet. How old is this kid?
...
All and all, no outstanding performances to me, but I'd go with the first performer, Eric.
Eric (aka, Aaron ;)) just turned 17. As I said above, he's "okay" but has no star quality at all. And as much as I root for him to do well, I just don't think he did very well tonight (when you compare his performance to past years at Top 5 caliber, it wasn't good; yet neither was anyone else besides Lee IMHO)
I'm obviously in the minority here, but I thought that Crystal did very well. I thought it was a subtle and elegant performance. Here's my ranking of the performances, from best to worst:
Not sure where to put this, in "Glee" or here, but this article (which I got from reading yours, Beth), is that "AI" contestants are looking worse and worse when stacked up against the performances on "Glee". Granted, many of the performers on "Glee" are professionals, like Matt Morrison and Lea, but many of them aren't, like Chris Colfer, Amber Riley (who was rejected by "Idol", btw, which isn't mentioned in this article) and Cory Monteith.
Heck, I think Glee sound better than some professionals, like Britney Spears and Miley Cyrus. I think Chris sounds great in the solos he's had. Cory, I agree has the cuteness, but he doesn't have a strong voice.
Cory was never a singer, and he admits that. Even his audition video wasn't him singing, it was him playing the drums. That said, he has gotten much better, or they're picking songs that are more suited to his voice.
Anyway, don't want to hijack the AI thread! Um, Crystal Bowersox for the win!! I really would like to see her and Lee in the finale. Methinks that Lee is too similar to Kris Allen for the AI machine. They really wanted a female winner this year, and Crystal is the last gal standing.
I can't predict next week before it happens, but yeah, I've been pretty spot-on picking per week As of right now, I can see Mike vs Casey, too... down to the wire now... Top 4 !!
I just happen to be watching. It's still on here. I agree with SB about the duet with Crystal & Lee. Casey just sang Mrs. Robinson. I thought that was the best performance so far. The kid's got a nice voice and although the original can't be beaten, he did a nice job with his arrangement.
Agreed. Not a great week for solo performances, but one -- and only one -- duet ranked up there with the best of the season.
Code:
B Crystal "I'm All Right"
B- Casey "Mrs. Robinson"
C Lee "Kiss From A Rose"
C- Mike "Will You Be There"
B+ Crystal & Lee "Falling Slowly"
C+ Casey & Mike "Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman"
Lee solo was okay, not exciting/blah, but still a good voice. R: Did nothing with it, pitchy, just okay; E: Could've done more, love it; K: Difficult song, got lost, you're still great; S: Verging on karaoke, trying too hard to sound like original
Mike was good, but his choice was pretty safe. R: Didn't love this, a'ight; E: Consistently good, predictable; K: Played it safe, no goose bumps; S: Gave it 100%, meant it
Crystal & Lee then do "Falling Slowly" with really good harmonies. Lee should have done this solo and blown everyone away! R: Great, amazing; E: Great; K: One of favorite moments of the season; S: Fantastic
Casey was okay, good vox, but didn't blow me away. Jason C didn't win with a uke. R: Sounded cool, laid back; E: Should have gone further; K: Vulnerable, out of comfort zone, good choice; S: Not enough substance for tonight, could've made more of an impact
Crystal was also predictable, but did her thing well. R: An artist, nice job; E: Made the song better; K: Agree w/ Randy & Ellen; S: Back in the game
Casey & Mike duet wasn't nearly as harmonic as the other one, okay, good guitar, but didn't always quite click together like Crystal & Lee R: Nice one, really good; E: Yes, I have (ever really loved a woman); K: Duets tonight incredible; S: Million times better than solos
Every week I say it's getting tougher, and that's gonna become more true the next couple weeks. I originally had Lee at C- and Mike C until I heard them again at the end and switched them. Lee shouldn't go -- he should be in the finale with Crystal. Mike or Casey should go, and I think it should be Mike's turn first (sorry if his goal was Top 3 - who knows, he may make it, but he's my bottom pick this week)
I was shocked the other night. Ellen actually made a lesbian joke!
I like her a great deal. She's funny and adds something that the show was missing. Simon's been phoning it in all season, and Randy is a moron. I don't particularly like Kara, since her advice rarely makes any sense.
The votes alone determine the winner. I believe that the judges try to steer audience members to their favorite contestants with their comments, but it's ultimately up to the audience.
It's pretty evident to me who should win it all now.
Contestants' Choice
Code:
B Lee "Simple Man"
C+ Crystal "Come To My Window"
C Casey "OK, It's Alright With Me"
Casey had good vox, and was in his comfort zone. But bad song choice. R: 'All right for me' too, safe; E: It's live or die, didn't bring it; K: Song choice didn't work; S: Salad course of dinner, dud song choice, but sounded good
Crystal is good, but is no Melissa Etheridge. Seemed weak in spots. R: Loved vocal, it worked; E: Comfort zone, she'd be proud, K: Fighting, good but not strong; S: You haven't compromised yourself, honest, congrats
Lee from the first note stood out, way better than the others, perfect song choice. R: Great song choice, hot baby; E: You took this seriously; K: You showed us everything, Round 1 to Lee; S: Absolutely on the money, crushed the other two
Judges' Choice
Code:
B Lee "Hallelujah" (Simon)
C+ Crystal "Maybe I'm Amazed" (Ellen)
C Casey "Daughters" (Randy & Kara)
Casey does what he does, and isn't bad. But does he even have a daughter?? Didn't click for me. R: This fit you like a glove; E: Beautiful for you, liked it; K: Artistic side, vulnerable side; S: Lazy arrangement, sounded very good, no 'wow' factor
Crystal did well out of her comfort zone, but was disconnected from the lyrics for obvious reasons ("Baby I'm a man and maybe you're the only woman") R: Great song, great vox, in it to win it; E: You did it; K: Showed new parts of voice, risks paid off; S: You've got soul, terrific
I was nervous about "Hallelujah" as I now consider it a Jason Castro song, but Lee did it proud. Here's your winner, folks! R: Threw down the real gauntlet, biggest moment, unbelievable; E: Stunning; K: What this show is all about, owned the entire night; S: Very proud of you, you are a fantastic singer and great person
The judges have been trying to push Crystal so much, but Lee's performances couldn't go unnoticed. Lee and Crystal for the finale!
And what happened to all the hometown footage? I guess we'll see that tonight? I don't remember...
Just watched last night's episode. I was disappointed in Crystal's performances. I don't think she brought it, as she should have. Lee was the best of the night, but who wouldn't be with a beautiful song like "Hallelujah", a fabulous orchestral arrangement, and a gospel choir as backup??
Casey phoned it in, and it's a shame. He's got a very nice voice.
Btw, dialidol.com has Lee with the most votes and Casey going home. Let's see if they're right!
Casey got the boot??? Too bad. I think I liked him the best. I'll go out on a limb... I'm guessing Lee will win. (Ha ha 50/50 chance I'm right) (I live on the edge)
Well I don't know too much about Simon leaving (or maybe too much of anything for that matter) . I didn't even know his leaving was definite.
Anyway, I was listening to the radio this morning and they said a rumor was that someone named David Corey was going to take his place. I don't know who that is, or if it's true, but the rumor is there.
Never heard of David Corey, and apparently neither has Google.
Simon is to be on The Oprah Winfrey Show tonight (1:06AM ET? Really??) to "reflect on his time as a judge on ``American Idol'' and discuss what is next for him"
Never heard of David Corey, and apparently neither has Google.
Simon is to be on The Oprah Winfrey Show tonight (1:06AM ET? Really??) to "reflect on his time as a judge on ``American Idol'' and discuss what is next for him"
Hmmm Well I haven't either. I know he's "somebody" because they called him from the radio station. He said he hadn't been asked "yet" and sort of left it a mystery. Evidently, he is quite a mystery. Probably just a rumor or just misleading info. Btw, it could be Kory.
Actually I don't really care who takes Simon's place. Actually, I don't know why I'm even mentioning it.
Ok, the L.A. radio station is talking about it again. Apparently, it's David Coury and from what I gather he's a rapper (no wonder I don't know who he is). Anyway, they said he "wants" to do it if he gets the same money as Simon. The thing is, they say, nobody asked him. They mentioned PDiddy but that's not his real name is it?
By JOHN SEEWER, Associated Press Writer – Mon May 24, 6:12 am ET
ELLISTON, Ohio – Long before adopting the dreadlocks, "American Idol" finalist Crystal Bowersox discovered what she needed to make sense of the world.
She calls it her comfort blanket — her guitar — and has been dragging it around ever since finding her mom's six-string while snooping for Christmas presents when she was just 10-years-old.
There's been one with her nearly every step, in Toledo's smoky dive bars and Chicago's subway stations, helping her navigate through plenty of hard times. Her parents divorced when she was a toddler, leaving her bouncing among several homes. She was diagnosed with diabetes in the second grade and struggled to stay out of hospitals.
And after leaving home at age 17, she ended up in Chicago singing for rent money in coffee houses and blues clubs before coming back home pregnant and broke.
"To put her thoughts to music, that I'm sure was an escape," said one of her mentors, Bobby May, who gave her the chance to sing between his sets in bars around Toledo when she was barely a teen.
Even at that young age, he said, Bowersox wasn't intimidated by her surroundings. "Once you get into the music, you can block out any distractions," May said.
Lee stunk. Crystal was very good, and her last song bordered on great. If America has any taste, they will vote her the winner. However, nothing would surprise me after the suckitude that was this season.
Each did three songs: 1) Contestant's favorite of the season 2) Exec Producer Simon Fuller's choice 3) Their potential first single
Contestant's favorite of the season
Code:
B+ Crystal "Me And Bobby McGee"
B- Lee "The Boxer"
Lee got a B last time, but this sounded quite boring to me. R: Nice, [but] pick it up; E: Better than the first time; K: Punch harder, believable; S: Expected a lot more passion and excitement
Crystal got an A- last time; still (too) predictable, but well done R: Started slow, dope; E: So compelling, stunning; K: Loved it, fire in your belly; S: Back on your best, have a competition
Exec Producer Simon Fuller's choice
Code:
B+ Crystal "Black Velvet"
B Lee "Everybody Hurts"
Lee was okay, not blowing me away. And a little pitchy R: Liked it, a lot better; E: Got into it then pulled back; K: Emotionally accessible; S: Brilliant choice, want a '10 out of 10' next time
Crystal is in it to win it R: What I'm talking about; E: Fan-tastic; K: You want it, you can tell; S: Absolutely nailed it
Their first single, if they win it...
Code:
B Crystal "Up To The Mountain"
C- Lee "Beautiful Day"
Lee doesn't have it tonight Pitchy R: "Good On You"[?]; E: Proud of you, great job; K: Good and not so good moments; S: You've worked hard, You're a great guy
Crystal, a folk song for the win? Okay - but it should've rocked R: What this show's about, one of your best, unbelievable; E: A league of your own; beautiful voice; K: Completely emotionally invested, amazing; S: By far the best performance and song of the night, outstanding (Simon's very last word in his AI judging career)
The UK Pop Idol Will Young performed "Leave Right Now" during an Idol Season 9 video tribute
--
Either can/should win this. The last few weeks Lee poured it on while Crystal slumped. But tonight "Mamasox" blew the windows out and should win it tomorrow.
I'll be happy with either one -- they'll both do fine after this.
I am a huge fan of both, and would have been glad to see either one of them win. Either way, they both have a great future ahead of them. They should both be proud.
I came on here to see the results because I won't be home to watch it when it comes on over here!
I liked Lee, too. However, there's no doubt in my mind that Crystal was superior in every way - vocally, stage presence and personality. I was sick of hearing how shy Lee was. Grow up! You're a star now!!
As far as pure talent, I agree, Crystal is in a league of her own. But I think Lee won for two reasons:
1) He is great.
2) He has a more commercial sound than Crystal, and therefore he appeals to a broader audience. Seriously, how much of Idol's core audience do you think had ever heard the song "Me and Bobby McGhee" before Crystal sang it? I bet most of them don't even know who Janis Joplin is.
Lee has a more commercial sound, a more commercial look, and it doesn't hurt that he is good.
But I agree that Crystal was the more talented singer AND performer.
LOS ANGELES – Lee DeWyze, a paint store clerk who overcame his shyness to impress "American Idol" judges and viewers with his spirit and soulful voice, triumphed Wednesday over bluesy musician Crystal Bowersox in the contest's ninth season.
When asked by host Ryan Seacrest how he felt, an emotional DeWyze said, "I don't know. It's amazing, thank you, guys, so much ... I love you. Crystal, I love you."
The finalists had closely matched fan bases, with just a 2 percent voting gap between them coming into the finale, Seacrest said. DeWyze's victory was based on votes cast after Tuesday's performance show, which drew more judges' compliments for Bowersox, 24, of Toledo, Ohio, than for DeWyze, also 24, of Mount Prospect, Ill.
The total number of votes cast in the finale weren't announced by Seacrest. That's a departure from most years past: Last season, for example, the high-profile contest between Kris Allen and Adam Lambert drew 100 million phone and text message votes.
Fox didn't comment on the omission. But "Idol," although still TV's top-rated show, has seen audience erosion this season that could have affected the tally. The talented but low-key Bowersox and DeWyze might also have provoked less interest.
Backstage, Bowersox was downright Zen about the results.
"I knew Lee was going to win. People seemed surprised by that, but I just had a feeling. I couldn't be happier for him. He deserves every minute of this," she said, looking as calm and cheerful as she has throughout the season.
She viewed the outcome as "winner and non-winner," not winner and loser.
"Both of us are going to have very successful careers and we're going to be friends for a long time," she said of DeWyze.
Before the show, DeWyze was equally philosophical: "Whether I win, which will be amazing, or I came in second, this is a new beginning for me career-wise and in my life," he said.
The finale made the most of Simon Cowell's last appearance as a judge. A film package recounting highlights from the Cowell years was shown and comedian Dane Cook came on stage to sing "Simon Says," made up of the Brit's barbed comments, and to crack a few jokes.
"You have the honesty of Abe Lincoln and the charm of the guy who shot him," Cook told Cowell, who took the ribbing with a smile.
The walk down memory lane continued with ex-judge Paula Abdul, who often played Cowell's sparring partner during the seasons the shared.
"I've loved all the fun we've had together," Abdul told Cowell. "`American Idol's' not gonna be the same without you. But as only I can you, it will go on."
Cowell, in turn, shed his usual cool in an on-stage appearance.
"I didn't think I was going to be this emotional and I genuinely am. ... Everybody asks who's going to replace me, who going to be the next judge. The truth is," he told the audience, "you guys are the judge of this show and you've done an incredible job over the years."
The finale, as usual, was stuffed with humor, including the return of Larry "Pants on the Ground" Platt and William Hung, return appearances by former contestants and music stars.
Kris Allen, last year's winner, sang "The Truth," with Carrie Underwood, Michael McDonald, Christina Aguilera, Hall & Oates, Robin and Barry Gibb, Janet Jackson and Joe Cocker were among those whose performances were scattered throughout the two-hour show.
Bret Michaels, the ailing former Poison frontman and reality TV star, joined "Idol" finalist Casey James on one of the band's biggest hits, "Every Rose Has Its Thorn."
David Cook, a past "Idol" winner, was unable to attend because of a charity commitment, Fox said.
Bowersox, with a distinctive, Janis Joplinesque-voice and whose status as a single mom and warmth earned her the nickname "Mama Sox," had basked in praise Tuesday.
"You took that song and you absolutely nailed it," Cowell said of Bowersox's rendition of "Black Velvet," a song he said he's normally "allergic" to because it gets murdered.
The assessments of DeWyze were respectful but more measured — with Ellen DeGeneres the exception.
"Lee, I couldn't be prouder if I birthed you myself," she told him after he sang Simon and Garfunkel's "The Boxer."
DioGuardi admired DeWyze as an "emotionally accessible" singer after he performed R.E.M.'s "Everybody Hurts" as his second number, but Cowell urged him to try harder.
"When you come out for your last performance, I want a 10 out of 10, because you're capable of that," Cowell told him.
With U2's "Beautiful Day," Jackson welcomed hearing "the guy with the strong big rock voice" and DioGuardi said he had "one of the most commercial voices of the season" and deserved to be in the finale.
Cowell, who had pointed to DeWyze as the frontrunner before the finale performances, said that "American Idol" was designed for someone like DeWyze, who worked in a paint shop when he tried out for the show and needed a break.
DeWyze's first single will be "Beautiful Day," which he performed Tuesday.
Seacrest, who appeared to have an on-air testy relationship with Cowell this season, had only warm words for him Tuesday and Wednesday.
"We really are going to miss you. You are a dear friend and we wouldn't be here without you," Seacrest said.
Cowell isn't going far: He's going to produce and judge "The X Factor," a Fox version of his popular British talent contest.
___ Fox is a unit of News Corp. ___ Online: http://www.americanidol.com ___ AP Entertainment Writer Sandy Cohen and AP Writer Natalie Rotman contributed to this story.
By LYNN ELBER, AP Television Writer – 2 hrs 12 mins ago
LOS ANGELES – Simon Cowell was known for being nasty and mean to aspiring singers on "American Idol," but his final appearance on the show was a total lovefest.
The caustic judge was feted in film and in song during Wednesday's season finale, which saw shy paint clerk Lee DeWyze win the "Idol" title.
There was a montage of Cowell's meanest insults ("It sounded like cats jumping off the Empire State Building ... just before they hit the floor") and memorable exchanges with fellow judge Paula Abdul.
She returned to the show to pay respects to Cowell, saying their work together "brought me immeasurable joy."
"I love all the fun we had together, I love all the laughter we shared together," she said, adding that the show "is not going to be the same without you, but as only I can tell you, it will go on."
Comedian Dane Cook offered a musical tribute, melding Cowell's quips into a song.
"You have the honesty of Abe Lincoln and the charm of the guy who shot him," Cook quipped.
Cowell said he felt more emotional than he'd anticipated on his final "Idol" episode.
"I just want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the support, the fun and your sense of humor," he said. "That's what's been the best part."
"It's been a blast," he continued. "Thank you."
Then he hugged host Ryan Seacrest and kissed Abdul on the head.
Cowell was a man of few words as an "American Idol" judge, but they were choice.
What he said helped turn a singing contest into a pop-culture force that dominates TV, even in its ninth season and with sliding viewership — and whose future is clouded by his departure after Wednesday's season finale.
Cowell was so colorful and biting in his criticism that it felt like a bracing slap in the face of the performers, viewers and social convention. Brits such as Cowell may be accustomed to candor but Americans tend to err on the side of cheery positive reinforcement (exhibit A: most utterances by Abdul) and fluff (Randy Jackson's repetitive "Yo!").
Most importantly, the music industry veteran was authoritative and mostly on target. With the intimidating hauteur of a snobbish wine steward, he steered viewers to the proper assessment of contestants.
"You sucked the soul out of that song," Cowell told Andrew Garcia after his performance this season of Marvin Gaye's "Heard It Through the Grapevine."
"It was like a musical, the bad part of the musical," he said to Didi Benami after she tackled Linda Ronstadt's "You're No Good."
He was key to the show's early success, said Tim Brooks, a TV historian (co-author of "The Complete Directory to Prime Time Network and Cable TV Shows") and former network executive.
"His sarcastic — but knowledgeable — put-downs lifted the show from the traditional `Star Search' mold to something genuinely new on television, a talent show where not only was the competition fierce and the standards high but the judges were part of the entertainment," Brooks said in an e-mail.
Although viewers had a "love-hate" relationship with Cowell, Brooks said, "they knew he was the real deal, telling shaky contestants what they needed to hear."
His act wasn't all scowling Cowell. Handsome, with a penchant for snug T-shirts, he had a disarming wink for those he favored. And if he misjudged a gifted singer, it wasn't for long. Finalist Crystal Bowersox won an admission from Cowell that he had "completely underestimated" her as a serious artist.
"Simon's a rare bird. He's more honest than most people can handle, and I love that about him," Bowersox, 24, of Toledo, Ohio, said Monday.
Cowell believes in "not changing who you are, but taking what you're good at and making it better," said DeWyze, 24, of Mount Prospect, Ill.
The outgoing judge received more verbal hugs on Tuesday's broadcast.
"We really are going to miss you. You are a dear friend and we wouldn't be here without you," said Seacrest, who had a testy on-air relationship with Cowell this season.
Bowersox thanked Cowell for his help and wished him well before he weighed in on her performance of "Up on the Mountain," the last of the evening.
"Since this is going to be the final critique I'm ever gonna give, I would just like to say that was outstanding," Cowell said, ending his "Idol" judging run on a sweet note.
Throughout the series, Cowell scored with his "understanding of the music industry, his understanding of what it takes to be an artist," said industry analyst Shari Ann Brill.
Cowell, in turn, has been richly rewarded, making a reported $36 million a year for his work on "Idol" and founding his own TV empire.
After serving as a judge on British media mogul Simon Fuller's "Pop Idol" and helping sell the concept to Fox, Cowell went on to create a popular U.K. talent show, "The X Factor," a version of which is coming to Fox with Cowell as judge and executive producer. He's also a producer for NBC's "America's Got Talent."
On the music side, he's scored hits with singers including Leona Lewis, one of his U.K. talent show finds.
The big question for Fox and the producers of "American Idol" is how to follow his act. The man himself weighed in during an interview with Oprah Winfrey.
"You've got to have somebody on that panel who actually knows what they're talking about, because everyone is talking about casting the nasty person or this person or get another Brit in," Cowell told the talk show host.
___ Fox is a unit of News Corp. ___ EDITOR'S NOTE — Lynn Elber is a national television columnist for The Associated Press. She can be reached at lelber(at)ap.org ___ AP Entertainment Writer Sandy Cohen contributed to this story. ___ Online: http://www.americanidol.com
By SANDY COHEN, AP Entertainment Writer – 1 min ago
LOS ANGELES – Though he has suffered from life-threatening health problems in recent weeks, Bret Michaels appeared in fine form on the "American Idol" stage.
The ailing 47-year-old rocker and reality TV star sang and played guitar on Wednesday's star-studded season finale. The Poison frontman joined "Idol" finalist Casey James on one of the band's biggest hits, "Every Rose Has Its Thorn."
Michaels, who lives in Scottsdale, Ariz., won this season's "Celebrity Apprentice" show last Sunday, weeks after suffering a brain hemorrhage in April. He was hospitalized again May 20 for what doctors called a "warning stroke" and diagnosed with a hole in his heart.
Michaels said on his website this week that he plans to continue his tour, starting Friday in Biloxi, Miss.
I thought I'd update you on Andrew Garcia. It seems that he still is keeping busy entertaining, as it sounds like the 10 finalists do. I just received this e-mail from his mother today.
TIS
UPDATE ON ANDREW: Andrew did not win but he made it to the top 10 finalist which means he will be performing with the other 9 American Idols in about 50 performances all over the states and 2 in Canada . He has been in talk shows, commercials, performances and right now he is in NY. They will start rehearsals for the tour when he returns from NY. His first show starts July 1st and then through Sept. 14, 2010. Andrew will be performing at Staples Center in Los Angeles on 8/13 and Honda Center in Anaheim, California on 8/17/10. Those are the two local ones and the others are all out of state. It has been a rollercoaster, exciting, like a dream still. It is hard to keep up with him and we try to travel up to Hollywood with his fiancé and my grandson to see him as much as possible. He is really busy and I miss him very much but I am very proud of his accomplishment. I have never seen so many movie stars, singers in all my life from attending the shows.
LOS ANGELES – The next "American Idol" may not be able to drive a car.
Fox said in a statement Monday that the age eligibility to audition for the upcoming 10th season of the singing competition would be lowered from 16 to 15 years old. The maximum age to audition remains 28.
"American Idol" executive producer Cecile Frot-Coutaz said in a statement that "a lot of young, talented people are now seeking careers and representation before they turn 16."
Auditions for the next season will begin July 17 in Nashville, Tenn. Other audition cities include Milwaukee, New Orleans, San Francisco, East Rutherford, N.J., and Austin, Texas.
OMG! They acknowledged NJ, rather than calling it NY!
Too bad we're too old. Just a drive up the Parkway / Tpke....
A sign that Idol is fading, maybe?. The Idol is coming to Atlantic City again, but not to Boardwalk Hall, but to the Taj Mahal. The Taj venue seats about half of B.H. I wonder if it was a booking conflict or just not enough interest. I went to the B.H. show last year and it was sold out. B.H. does have a busy schedule this summer.
TOMS RIVER, N.J. – A New Jersey man has been indicted in the hit-and-run death of a former "American Idol" contestant whose angry rejection rant became an Internet sensation.
Ocean County prosecutors say Alexis Cohen was killed in Seaside Heights on July 25, 2009, when she was struck by a motor vehicle driven by 24-year-old Daniel Bark of Toms River.
At the time, Bark allegedly was fleeing from police, who tried to stop him following an earlier car accident. He was arrested the next day and later charged with drunken driving.
Bark faces charges including aggravated manslaughter in the indictment handed up Thursday by a county grand jury. He remains jailed on $150,000 bail.
Cohen, a 25-year-old Allentown, Pa., resident, performed during the seventh season of "American Idol."
I would think a new host would be a plus. 
...i MEAN Bawlin'
I can't believe they actually think they have talent. 
I missed it last night, I had to work. 
