American Idol

Okay, I'm sitting here watching American Idol, like I have been on Tues and Weds evenings for the past few weeks wondering who else here is?

Please vote on who you like, and make your predictions!

(If you don't know their names, just look here for their pictures)

I'm a die hard fan. And it's strange because I didn't watch the first season, and I'm addicted to the second! I wanted Julia DeMato to win, because she was the ONLY Connecticut person on there. But she was booted. But, the one I wanted to win because he's my favorite... Ruuuuuuuuuben!

I think it's gonna be down to Ruben and Clay. I think Clay has a good voice... But, his voice is ANNOYING. That opera voice. The only reason people want him to win, in my opinion, is 'cause he's a geek. And people want "revenge of the geeks" or something. He's too predictable, and sounds the same weekly. Ruben, tonight, just now, came out and proved he can switch his style up a bit. He's great.

Anyways, my answers were...

1. Ruben
2. Ruben
3. Ruben, Clay, and Kimberly...

What did you pick, Geoff?

LOL, AL - I picked Mr 205 to WIN, but as a geek myself, I'm rootin' for Clay - you called it, man!

I picked Kimberly Locke, as you did, as 2nd Runner-up.

Funny, I didn't watch Season 1 either...

If there's one thing I have always tried to tell myself, it's that reality TV, like this one, are addictive, disgusting, trashy pieces of garbage...

...nonetheless I still ended up watching this, but I don't watch much TV...almost no TV, still, I put it on one night and this was playing, so I am now watching it almost every night it's on. I for one think Ruben should win at all costs...everyone agree?

"Sitting in this house I am slowly losing insanity".

-Penguin

OK I will sadly admit I have been watching it this season. The next two to go have to be Carmen and Josh. I like them both, Josh is a marine seems like a good man, Carmen seems like a nice sweet kid - but they just don't have enough to hang with the others. Reuben and Clay will be in the top 3, leaving Kimberly and Trenyce. I have a bet with a friend that Trenyce makes it further than Kimberly. I thought that was a lock earlier although I am beginning to have doubts now. I still believe Kimberly will go before Trenyce but I will say Kimberly is most improved over the last few weeks. In the end I just want to win my bet . And the winner overall will be Reuben. Simon really likes him and I heard it is actually Simon's record company so ....

You're wrong Daddy-O...Kimberly will go farther than Trenyce because America votes for underdogs. Bring on that bet and make sure you pay up ...It is why Kim"Benet" Caldwell did not make it - because her in-your-face-I'm-gonna-win-no-matter-who-I-have-to-step-on did not sit well with normal folk. NOT an underdog...

My predictions.....bottom 3 tomorrow night: Trenyce, Carmen, Josh.

Bye bye Trenyce.

Yep. You would THINK Carmen, but she has a huge fan base PLUS every Mormon in Utah voting for her. Because like you said BDD - she is a sweet kid. Many voters also just want her to stick around to watch the romance between her and Clay blossom...

Top 3 will be Kimberly, Ruben and Clay.

If I was getting married tomorrow - Ruben and Clay are the only ones I would trust to sing at my wedding - they are the only ones GOOD EVERY TIME...

Being a Motown/R & B kinda gal, I PREFER Ruben's sound, but I do think Clay would be the better American Idol. Clay was made for the tour gig, Regis and Kelly, Entertainment Tonight etc circuit....

Clay Aiken WILL BE the next American Idol.


Sidebar: Dont you love it when Ryan Seacrest stands next to Ruben? He is the size of Ruben's torso!!

I don't understand this... tho there have only been 6 votes so far...

3 people want Ruben to win
5 people expect Ruben to win
But only 4 people put him in the Top 3?

And NO ONE thinks Clay will beat Ruben?

I better wait for more votes before wondering more...

Anton: Yeah, that's why it's on TV, cuz people watch it

BDD: Trenyce or Carmen is history tomorrow.

LDV: Yup, I think it'll come down to Ruuuuben and Clay, too. But, of course, it's America voting - so who the hell knows, right? But without a doubt, I would not feel bad for the Top 3 - cuz they'll all become rich and famous artists! I just gotta root for the geek But I do like Ruben a lot, although I was NOT too happy with his performance this week. In fact, this week, NO ONE blew me away...

Even though there were no judges Monday night, Kimberly blew me away with her rendition of "I Can't Make You Love Me (If You Don't)" One of my favorite songs and she was soulful with it.

Hard to believe these are the SIX best amateur singers in all of America!!!!!!!!!

Well, they're not... these are the "six best" that actually physically went through the audition process, and made it past Simon

So, who do you think will be the bottom 3 tonight, and who's getting booted?

I think the bottom 3 will be

Carmen
Trenyce
Josh

And I predict Carmen will be booted

JGeoff those are my picks exactly. Although I have been saying Carmen is going for like the last four weeks so what do I know.

Sooner or later I'm gonna be right - and next week Josh is going.

How sad has my life become ....

Well, we were right. No shockers this week...

My friend is a big Carmen fan, and wasa big Kimberly fan. Two weeks in a row, her favorite was booted. And she kept saying Ruben would get booted. No shockers.

My parents tell me to turn it off, but from what i have seen RICKY SMITH WAS the best..... I cant believe he got kicked off probably for his normal features. HERCULES HERCULES HERCULES.

Well most of us were right, but not all - see below.

The remaining order for 'those to go' - Josh, Kimberly, Trenyce, Clay and the winner Reuben. I am torn with Kimberly and Trenyce but I made a bet so I need to stick with that now.

Now who is digging up old posts?

I expected the dig this morning, no surprises...a girl can't be wrong just once?

Trenyce WILL go before Kimberly.

I have to say I am glad to see Goat-girl go - if I had to hear her warble one more time - I mean she yodeled at her audition!...what WAS Simon thinking picking her for the wild card?

But just think, now Clay will be sad his girlfriend has to leave the mansion and go home....

I want Clay to be cut immediately, and then die. That boy irritates me to no end - the way he mouths words softly and sweetly into the camera and winks. Clown-footed motherfucker...and I KNOW he was wearing purple lipstick one night.

He has a fantastic voice, but someone needs to teach him how to sing. It is too sterile. And if I have to hear "Somewhere Out There" EVER again, I'm going to snap.

Yeah, but when was that song EVER good?

The one that freaks me out is Josh - does anyone else see Shrek when they look at him????

You're totally on the money, my dear...but Clay takes it to a higher plateau of shitiness.

I hate television.

Except for The Sopranos and Cartoons(Family Guy,ect...) and the old movie channels

Either Trenyce or Josh will go next week. I'm leaning more towards Trenyce being booted.

I share your exact thoughts, Uzto. Clay fucking aggitates me to no end. Simon even said something about his stupid fucking face movements. Annoying twit. He sounds like he should be in an opera; not a pop star. Ruben deserves it; all the way.

No...he should be on Broadway. I hate she-men.

Reuben can win it, and it would be OK if he did. Josh looks about as much like an "American Idol" as I look like a tarantula. Trenyce is just a sultry whore with an ordinary voice, and Kimberly is fat with a good voice.

That little Caldwell nymphette who was cut a couple weeks back was pretty smokin', too, but she had no vocal range. I wonder how she sounds with my unit half way down her throat?

I can EASILY see Ruben taking it. I want him to, he's my favorite. By far. No one else really interests me. Besides, America seems to be addicted to fat nice black men with great voices. Like Luther Vandcross, although I don't like him. But, Ruben is superb.

205 is the fan favorite and will probably win.

I'm just wondering, since I didn't watch it last year... was it a people's choice then, too?

And - Do you guys ever vote? Ruben doesn't need votes, so I vote once for the next-best one that night, if I think of it. I can just see some people out there with the redial for 2 hours padding the votes, so my measly vote doesn't matter anyway...

Im a geek - I vote. But only because I have a kid in the house.

If I lived alone, I would probably not watch anything but sports and Elimindate

Okay, apparently this isn't a popular topic here... but okay, whatever, it's another week, and down to 5... who's gonna be voted out on Wednesday night?

It's getting tougher... Bottom 3 I say Josh, Trenyce, and Kim (no shock there)... Although the big upset could be Clay in the Bottom 3 (but obviously not voted off)...

Bottom 2 I say Josh and Trenyce... The one to go? Man, it's getting hard... I'll announce it, after this commercial break!

Carmen, Josh, and Trenyce in the bottom 3. Carmen loses! Finally, the one without an inkling of talent is finally gone! May she STAY gone. Talentless fool.

-Penguin

EDIT
Oops...big mistake there. I must be a week behind you guys! Don't tell me who lost!!!

A week behind is right

You gotta think ahead, now, bro... you gotta name 2 losers per week!

Bottom Three - Josh, Trenyce, and Kim...

There's too many Clay fans, so he won't be in the bottom three. Everywhere you look in the audience; "I LOVE CLAY!" - "Clay, shake that ass!" (I actually saw that one ). I despise that man. His face movements make me want to hurl, and his voice is more suited for an OPERA, not a pop musician. I think; he can actually win, over Ruben. There's TOO MANY Clay fans. Ugh.

Who's going home?: Trenyce or Josh, I'm leaning more towards Trenyce.

We have a program that's pretty much the same in the Netherlands, only it's called Idols.

I just can't understand how anyone can watch that shit.

Ok, how insane is THIS???

****Song selections for 4/29 SPOILERS Ahead****

Supposedly, it is Neil Sedaka night tonight. Not sure if he is gonna judge (ick) but they will be singing songs written by him.

Rumor has it Ruben is gonna do a slow version of "Breaking Up is Hard To Do"...(down dooby do don down.... )

Trenyce will be singing "Love Will Keep Us Together"

Clay will be singing "Solitaire" - (is this the one the Carpenters did?? )

Kim will be singing "Where the Boys Are"

And Josh will be doing......sit down for this.....the WORST song in the history of the Universe - "Bad Blood".

We may be waving buh-bye to Josh tomorrow night.

*****End of Spoilers*******


Did I mention.....insanity???????

Actually with Carmen gone I believe Clay will sing 'Where the Boys Are'

Don't forget Calendar Girl and Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen

Oh and without hearing them sing my prediction this week is we'll be saying good bye to Josh. Next week Kimberly, followed by Tyrence with only Clay and Reuben to battle it out.

Nothing like seeing a Marine sing a Neil Sedaka song

All righty now... two songs each this week. First round, Kimberly and Josh were in the pits. Second round, Kimberly kicked Trenyce's butt.

Josh is history tomorrow. With some work he's gonna make it big in Nashville, so I don't feel too bad.

Truthfully, though - and I love Ruben, don't get me wrong - but I thought he was relatively weak this week. I never thought he had a great falsetto, and tonight was no exception.

I will say this, too - the dweeb kicked fucking ass this week, like it or not!

OK - appears my earlier prediction of Josh going was fairly accurate. I still have my bet going that Trenyce beats out Kimberly but I will say Kimberly was excellent on the second song - each week I doubt my bet more and more.

And JGeoff - you are right the dweeb did kick ass this week.

Funny I read the earlier post by LDV and when I heard them singing I was like how did she guess the exact songs. I was sitting there shocked , like how would she know and then I re-read on this post and saw that she had spoiler so she obviously gotten the info somewhere. So much for my amazement

BDD- admit it. You will always be amazed by me....

Okay, some observations:

Neil Sedaka = a fat Regis Philbin????

After watching tonights show, I will admit everyone pretty much raised his or her game (except Josh - Hello Josh? There is a show on now called Nashville Star??????). But tonight I am convinced that Clay should be the American Idol. I can just see him doing the Leno, Lettermen, Entertainment Tonight, etc...circuit - the guy has so much personality and the peeps love him...

I'm a geek. I actually voted.

Oh, the insanity.

Geoff, you're right about one thing. I think Clay, unfortunately, can win this thing. Everyone keeps saying Ruben definately will... But; there's just so many of those DAMN CLAY FANS!

AL - If I was to go ONLY by last night, then Clay deserves to win hands-down. But I still see why you "hate" him so much

But overall, it will be a tight race between Ruben and Clay. Either one will win, and, BOTH will become stars regardless. (So will some of the other Top 12...)

As for Clay fans, I'm sure there are as many, if not more, Ruben fans.

What's going to be interesting is after tonight when there are only 4 left. I wonder if they'll still do a "bottom 3" at that point? Eventually one of those two will be standing there, sweating in the "bottom" group... should get interesting.

What's with the hour-long show tonight? During my Yankees game?

Ruben did an excellent job last night, also. I know you said you didn't think so... But, I thought he sang both songs in somewhat different styles. He switched it up a bit; and his voice, as always, we superb. No doubt, there's ALOT of Ruben fans, but everytime Clay's finished singing; there's BLASTS of screaming. Maybe it's just not as loud for Ruben because a bunch of people yelling "RUUUUUUUUUUUBEN!" I dunno; but I know everywhere I look... I see all these annoying Clay fans!

Hour long show? Didn't know about that. Sweet. Which ya gonna watch, Geoff?

It'll either go like one of these; they'll do a bottom three, leaving one left that's not in the bottom, and take one out, as usual. Or, they'll do a bottom two. Then, the NEXT time(two weeks from now); they'd just take one out, since there'll only be three, leaving it to the two finalists.

Ahh, so they picked only the Bottom 2 tonight... makes sense...

HOLY CRAP!! As I was typing "No shock tonight" when it was down to Ruben and Josh... RUBEN ENDED UP IN THE BOTTOM 2!!!! WTF IS WRONG WITH AMERICA!!!!

Idiot people voting for Josh cuz he's in the Marines instead of how he can sing? Even I said Ruben's performance last night wasn't up to par, but it was still better than Josh's!

Disgusting.

Anyway... *whew!* Ruben's safe... Trenyce is outta there!

I'm fucking outraged!!! I'm sick of Josh and his country shit. Fuck him. The only reason he wasn't in the bottom two is 'cause everyone felt sorry for him and voted for him! Okay, everyone who doesn't vote because "it doesn't count"... VOTE! See what happened this time? I hope everyone who voted for Josh out of sympathy gets a big smack in the face; and feels dumb... Because they are! OUTRAGED!

Ruben = AMERICAN IDOL.

Wow, what a shocker!

It could be that America thinks Ruben has it in the bag for #1 and were voting for other people to a) keep them around one more week, or b) alienate other contestants - hoping that they would go home.

It is crucial now that America votes for the person - the one person - they want to win the competition. This is no time for Survivor-like strategy. The one with the most votes wins, plain and simple.

My favorite part last night was the 60's medley. They all sounded fantastic - individually and collectively - even Josh sounded good singing one of my favorite songs "Young Girl".

I have it on good authority that next week's theme is the Bee Gees with the show flying in Robin Gibb to be a celebrity judge.

Didn't they already do Disco night?????????

I wanna see an Elvis theme. I wanna see Clay to sing Suspicious Minds or Its Now or Never. I want Kimberly to soulfully sing In the Ghetto. I want to see Ruben sing Youre The Devil in Disguise. I think Josh could pull off Burnin' Love before getting the boot.

Notice I didnt go with the obvious: Ruben singing Let me Be Your Teddy Bear....

Bee Gees?? Who can sing those sings besides the Bee Gees themselves? But I supposed they'd have those high-falsetto backups on tape anyway.

It's not all disco, tho, obviously. They had some great tunes way before the disco era.

Let's see... what Saturday Night Fever songs can the contestants do next week:

Clay - "More Than a Woman" (or maybe Paula would pick "You Should be Dancin'" for him)
Ruben - "How Deep is Your Love"
Josh - "Stayin' Alive"
Kim - "Night Fever" is the only one left

Oh JG, that is terrific! But if I had to choose a song for Kim and her sultry voice, I would want to hear "If I Can't Have You".....

Sad JG that we probably still own the Sat Night Fever 8-track and have all the songs memorized, no??

I didn't have many 8-tracks as I wasn't driving yet back then, I got most of what I had from by older brother; I still have all my LP's tho

Elvis theme would be cool. Or Sinatra. Or how about an 80's theme, those groups we were chatting about last night? REO Speedwagon, Def Leppard, Van Halen, 38 Special, Scandal, Quarterflash... that'd be great! I bet Clay could sing the hell out of a Styx song!

God! I can so SEE him singing Sail Away!

80's - should have been a theme when there were still 10 finalists. Would have been a ton of choices there.

*Edit: 8 tracks came with the Gremlins, Opels and Pacers??? Not like I was driving back then JG - watch yourself regarding my age! I must have had it good, I had an orange portable 8 track player in my bedroom. I think the 8 tracks I owned were the SNF soundtrack, Electric Light Orchestra, Beach Boys and Moody Blues....all hand me downs hahaha.....

First off regarding last night - that was pretty lame we all knew that Josh should have been packing. And I lost my bet because Tyrence went before Kimberly also. Glad it was only a 'friendly' bet with nothing real wagered .

Regarding next week and the Bee Gees they will probably have something like the did this week (60s') only they will sing a song from the 70's and then maybe a Bee Gee song in the second half. Someone will sing 'I Started a Joke'

The following week they will probably do 80's. Styx would have some good ones although I can hear Clay sing Journey's "Open Arms" - I'd feel like I'm back in high school again .

Were you watching in Week One? Clay DID sing Open Arms..and he rocked!

At lunch today I was at Target and the American Idol Season 2 All Time Classic American Love Songs CD was out. On sale for $11.99.

Since it was only 12 bucks, I picked it up. 13 tracks - 2 by the group - others the songs the individuals did before (?):

Superstar - Ruben
On the Wings of Love - Clay
At Last - Julia
Three times a Lady - Josh (thankfully not TOO countryfied...)
Lets Stay Together - Trenyce
Back At One - Rickey
Killing Me Softly with His Song - KimBenet Caldwell (Best she ever sounded)
Open Arms - that freak Corey
How Do I Live Without You? - Carmen Goat Girl (awful, awful, awful track - she sucks!)
Over The Rainbow - Kim Locke (Excellent)
Overjoyed - Charles

God Bless the USA & What The World Needs Now Is Love - All

It is amazing how good these contestants sound when mixed in a studio!!


And BDD- all bets are friendly...all taken seriously as well.

Actually No - I didn't see the beginning so didn't know he sung that.

Loser I believe this is what is referred to as 'disposable income'

Wow, the outrage of Ruben's bottom placement last night actually made the news this evening! (Well, it is FOX 5 News in NY, but still )

Where did they place his bottom, and was anyone hurt????????

Wherever they placed it I'm sure they were bummed out about it. They probably asked for a Corned Beef Reuben. I guess that's the extra fatty version.

Five words... I LOATHE THE BEE GEES.

Okay, I voted for Joshua Gracin as the person who I WANT to win. The person I THINK will win is Kimberly Locke (or Ruben freakin' Studdard). My top 3 are Joshua Gracin, Kim Locke, & Clay Aiken. I personally think that Ruben is talentless. I think the only reason they keep him there is because he is 'huggable'. My question is this...Why would anyone want to hug an extremly obese, soul wanna-be with no neck? I would be afraid of the stinch coming from his pits. I'm sure he has a hard time getting around on stage. Scooter anyone?

Oy vey.

I can't wait to see Lombardi's reply to you, Shorty...

Lombardi is my boy. I'm not worried about him.

He doesn't like Ruben, does he? I didn't know he did, anyway.

...I'm restraining my anger from EXPLODING on you, ShortCake.

Ruben... Talentless? I can't see how he can be talentless if he's in the TOP FIVE SINGERS IN AMERICA. O_O He's extremely talented. Listen to that voice... Can you say, HONESTLY, that's not talent? That man can sing, give him some freakin' credit, man. He's got a great voice. And the reason people vote for him isn't 'cause he's "huggable." I doubt he'd be up there with the top five singers in the USA because of being "huggable." Fuck, I'm huggable( ) and I'm not in the top five. Says something, huh?

And just because you think(key word, fellas) that he is talentless... Doesn't mean you have to go on insulting him. Saying he's obese and "smells" and shit. That's kind of rude. O_O There's nothing wrong with big people. Hell, alot of my family is big. They're people, too.

Josh Gracin? Meh... I'll admit he can sing. But, as of late, he's been fucking up. Out of key, tuning problems, etc. I think most people vote for him out of sympathy and 'cause he's in the army... And with this "war" thing going on; we know how everyone's supporting the army. But, alot vote for him because of talent, which I admit he has.

*sigh of relief* PHEW. There... Yeah. Sorta explode. But... No one talks about my RUUUUBEN!

Just my opinion. Using my 'freedom of speech' rights. I think he sounds bad.

Not liking someone is ONE thing, labeling him as "talentless" is completely differ.

Shut-Up. this isn't your battle. Plus, AL and I are talking on AIM right now and things are cool. YES, it is my FREEDOM OF SPEECH!

Listen SC2, read the "posting rights" at the bottom of the GD page. If it wasn't my battle, it would be in private, but this is on the BB where there are about 300 regular posters. If things are cool with this battle, then good.

Don't ruin my thread with this bullshit.

Don't worry JG. Anyway, I originally wanted the one from CT to win, she was good, but now gone Then Ruben, but likewise, gone Now I don't watch it, I don't like the last ones.

Yes Sir, JGeoff, sir! ::Salutes and kisses feet::

Ruben's not gone, what are you talking about? Do you even watch the show?

I stopped I missed a few episodes, then my friend told me they kicked him off.Is he bullshitted me?

Your friend is a schmuck. Try reading this thread to see what happened...

...I really didn't bother reading everything here because I didn't want to bother.

Freedom of speech; cool. But... You don't have to insult someone that mostly everyone likes just because you think he sounds bad... 'SPECIALLY WHEN HE DOESN'T!

Ruben is still on, DV. Me and Geoff came to the conclusion that the only reason Ruben was in the bottom two was either; A.) sympathy voters for Josh, B.) people voting for anyone other than Ruben, since Ruben is thought to win, and to give others a chance, or C.) FOX trying to get ratings.

Anywho...

Another week, another elimination!

Anyone predict any other shocker this week?? Maybe all the idiots who voted for Josh last week will vote for Ruben, and those normally voting for Clay might, too, putting Clay in the Bottom 2? God forbid!

Josh BETTER go tomorrow!!

I think this week there will be a major backlash to Josh from last week. He will go with tomorrow. Saw the below from USA today, there were a few other people commenting but the below was probably the most interesting.

Weird Al Yankovic, whose new CD, Poodle Hat, will be available May 20:

On Clay Aiken: In appearance, "it looks like he went from a huge dork to a not-quite-so-huge dork. I should know from experience. He's a talented singer, with enthusiasm and stage presence. That was a bravura performance on Solitaire. I thought Neil Sedaka was going to propose to him at one point. Clay seems like a young Barry Manilow with Ryan Seacrest hair."

On Joshua Gracin: "He's got a very pleasant country voice. In Bad Blood, he seemed rattled. He might have forgotten a couple of words. He's still a very talented singer. He doesn't seem as confident. I certainly wouldn't want to be the one who votes Josh out. He looked like the guy who beats you up in gym class."

On Kimberley Locke: "I thought she was wonderful. She's my second favorite, next to Ruben. She even made Where the Boys Are sound soulful. I can't offer any criticism. She was ear-delicious, as Neil Sedaka said."

On Ruben Studdard: "He's a cross between Luther Vandross and Teddy Ruxpin. I like the way he gives props to his homies in 205. He's happy to be on stage. Makes it look effortless. Maybe he could have a salad once in a while." Yankovic predicts Studdard should and will win: "He's clearly the man."

Ken Barnes, USA TODAY music editor:

On Clay Aiken: "He's a smooth and powerful vocalist, but he painfully overenunciates every syllable and, as Simon Cowell says, is better suited for Broadway. Puppy-dog appeal could swing the popular vote, though."

On Joshua Gracin: "The worse his performances get (and last week's Bad Blood was a nadir that eclipsed his infamous massacre of Kool and the Gang's Celebrate), the more belligerent he acts -- and the more popular he seems to become. Clearly out of his league talent-wise, but may hang on another week or two."

On Kimberley Locke: "A solid singer, but non-musical factors (specifically her lack of teen-idol appeal) will probably hurt her." Barnes predicts she should win: "She's overcome a shaky start to become perhaps the most accomplished and versatile singer of the batch."

On Ruben Studdard: "Ruben has the most natural singing ability, despite his lackluster uptempo performances." Barnes predicts he will win: "You have to consider him the front-runner, unless too many voters are turned off by his sometimes-sullen demeanor or tonnage."

Thanks for that, BDD - I found the complete article here

I also found this which states:

You think he was reading this thread?

YAY!!!!!
I love Clay soooo much, I have the biggest crush on him ever!
He is:
adorable
wonderful
funny
smart
sweet
dedicated
never boring
awesome
THE AMERICAN IDOL!
If he doesn't win, I will cry, and will be depressed until his CD comes out.
If he's in the bottom two tomorrow, I will cry, and probably throw up.
Yeah, I'm obsessed.

Excuse me? The Ruben fans are INCREDIBLY annoying. They're constantly screaming ROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! They flood the message boards with "205! 205! ROOOOOOOOOOOBIN!'
Everyone's fans are equally annoying, except for Kim-she doesn't reeeeally have fans.

RUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUBEN!

Ruben is going to win for sure.

I hate Clay. Damn him!

Huh. I thought Josh was actually pretty good this week. A tough choice now... but it'll be him or Kim. Unless people are getting tired of Clay (tho his first song was incredible!), but I really doubt it.

It's getting to the point where I don't want to see anyone voted off - but alas, there are only 2 more weeks!!

I'm probably gonna make some enemies, but I gotta tell you, I actually voted tonight. And the winner is...Josh...*ducks trying to avoid flying weapons. And not just once, but I hit re-dial and voted twice. I was with Simon, Kimberly practically put me to sleep. Paula Abdul needs to take that phony smile off once in awhile and tell people how it is. I get a cavity just looking at her. Hopefully, if all is right in the world, Kimberly will get the boot. I'm picking the actual winner to be Rueben. It's a toss up between Josh and Clay for 2nd though.

My observations of Bee Gees night: (Ugh!)

Josh STILL looks like Shrek - (Bethie, stand still while I slap you!)

NOONE can sing Jive Talking and make it sound good.

If someone had to be booted off based on just TONIGHT'S performance? Kimberly was WAY-weak. Boring. Not her usual soulful self. And although she is very pretty, she does have a pop idol image problem.

I still wish someone (good) had sung "How Deep is Your Love"

Clay rocked with his first song. I thought it was PERFECT and he really looks better and better with every show PERFORMING, until he goes and gets chummy with Ryan and then I wonder where the stage Clay ran off to. Honestly, Clay would make a great American Idol schmooozing with the likes of Kelly and Regis, Oprah, Mary Hart, VH-1 and the like. AND - he can sing too.

In my opinion, it doesnt matter if Josh or Kimmel goes tomorrow, they are gonna have to go sometime. I dont care.

Ruben: Well, I just like that kinda booty music and he rocked on his second song. It was beautiful.

Sidebar: If any of you had the opportunity to hear Josh sing the Commodores "Three Times a Lady" on the A.I. CD I bought, you would be amazed. It is a really beautiful rendition. I still maintain they can do wonders in the studio. He sounds fabulous and romantic, believe it or not....

Josh ?? So let me ask you Beth how many bottles of wine did you polish off before voting - twice? I will say that I thought Josh did a pretty good job last night, but clearly he was not the best of the four overall. Actually if I had to go purely by last night's peformance I think Kimberly would have to go tonight, but it is not based on only one night's performance anymore so Josh must go, he is not bad, but he is simply not a good or versitile as the others. In the end it will be Reuben or Clay, and I actually think Clay has done enough in the last few weeks to make it a pretty even call at this time.

I know JGeoff will be voting for his 'dweeb'

Tonight it is Josh, next week Kimberly.

As a side note I heard that Kimberly Caldwell got picked up on some Fox Sports type show - go figure.

How long before Playboy calls? Or do you think that is already in the works?

The gal that Joe Millionaire DIDN'T choose already got her deal with Playboy.

I wonder if they have reality shows for people like us - over 35??

If I had any wine I probably wouldn't have let the phone down..haha. My strategy is Ruben has it in the bag. Just vote for someone else that I didn't want to see go. After last night Kimberly needs to take a hike. She has a pretty voice, but no stage presence. So next week Josh can go. And LDV...what's wrong with Shrek? He's squeezably cute.

Who cares about the reality shows - I am keeping my eye out for the upcoming Playboy magazines

Have you EVER seen this guy sing????

They dont call him "Constipation" Gracin for nothing!

Who..Josh or Shrek?

Josh is the next after Kimberly. Don't sweat it. Got that annoying Clay to worry about then.

Hey that's rather cruel - didn't you see him in the audience last night during his song - couldn't you just feel the love

Beth, just a warning here for you - you keep talking like that about Clay - and JGeoff is gonna ban you.

Believe me..I've given Geoff plenty of reasons to ban me in the past. Don't know why my smart mouth is still here.

Do I have to kiss your feet now Geoff?

What I like about you Beth? We will NEVER fight over a man - we definitely have different tastes. I'd take the geek 100 times over Shrek in need of a laxative

BDD - You'll start getting the Playboy subscription soon - my compliments - think of it as your birthday present.

This is true. But we never did get in the jello pit over Bill Hemmer. Although, the time he's on now I'm already at work. No more Bill. So looks like you won that one!!!

Yeah, and I'll beat you up, Beth!
LAST NITE-
Clay=Hot, awesome, and really awesome
Ruben=*yawn*, but OK.
Kim=bad
Josh=bad.

Yeah, and I'll beat you up, Beth!
[/QUOTE]

Now, this frightens mean. I've seen your pic chickie. You could probably kick my ass! I bow down to you. Clay is king. Josh is a punk! But Ruben still rules!!!

Beth - This is (probably) exactly what caused the outrageously bullshit controversial placement last week of Ruben in the Bottom Two. <--Could that sentence be worded any more poorly? ;-) People can't be voting for pity - they have to vote for who they think is the best. Period. How would pity voting work out in a presidential election?

Anyway - I won't ban you... this time.

*JG pours Beth a glass of wine*

No pity. But, hell..that's how most elections are run. I pity anyone running for office! I liked Josh last night for some reason. So the vote was legitimate. As long as Kimberly's butt is out of there.

*Beth taking the whole damm wine bottle from Geoff's hands.

Whew - no shockers like last week...

Bottom Two: Kim and Josh...

R.I.P. Josh

Wow, Ryan... "Josh, you're out; Kim you're safe" -- no fucking around there... lol

Kim, you're next

Hey JGeoff what do you sit at your computer and begin typing as soon as they announce it

But you are right, no shock this week. Josh should have been gone last week, so he should be thankful to have gained another week.

And you are right with the way they announced it, you could tell they screwed up the time and when they came back from commercial they barely had enough time to run the video clip and he didn't even finish his song.

OK - so we agree - next week Kimberly.

AL and I do the live play-by-play on IM, then I post the results here. Sure, I'm a loser!!

And you have the balls to tell everyone that ???

Hmmm... you may be right! Good thing AL's on BB vacation

See....noone needed worry about my 2 lousy votes for Josh. I predicted him next week. Kimberly needs to be the next one out of there. Or I'm killing Paula Abdul.

I saw that too, I was like....whoa! I had sort of a delayed reaction, I guess still reeling from the whole Ford commercial with Pimp Daddy Ruben making Clay over

Josh's wife looks like she wants her man home already and he pretty much looked the past few weeks like he was tired. Probably did want to get home to his "girls".

Did anyone actually watch this last year? I mean, I know who the top 3 were last year but I never watched the show unfold so I was wondering who was the "favorite" was all along - I think most people tell me that Tamayra and Justin were favorites and Kelly was the dark horse.

This year just seemed like a lot of unusual suspects......

Now, this frightens mean. I've seen your pic chickie. You could probably kick my ass! I bow down to you. Clay is king. Josh is a punk! But Ruben still rules!!! [/b][/QUOTE]

I doubt I could kick any ass, except maaaybe in soccer. I challenge you to a soccer match!

It's been reported that there will be no more "theme" nights.

Next week the final 3 will be singing 3 songs a piece. One that they choose to sing themselves, one the judges choose for them and one random from a hat (?)

Ok, I see the judges having a chance to manipulate the contest a bit. We are talking 3 very different singing styles in the contestants and the judges could pick a song that is perfect for their favorite and a "mediocre" one for the other 2.

And who picks the "random" songs. Ryan? I heard his favorite artist/band is Dave Matthews Band. I could so see Clay singing "Ants Marching", Kimberly singing "What Would you Say" and Ruben performing an R and B version of "Crash"

How the hell can they do that?? I don't get it. These guys spent all week rehearsing their songs, how can they just play karaoke like that? Will they get the words? Or do they rehearse every song on a particular list? Weird. But should be pretty exciting. And you know Reuben and Clay can pull off anything...

Say...I don't watch the show but what's the deal between Simon & Paula?

I'm on another e-list where someone's saying me and another member are beginning to act like them.

You can probably imagine what's been going on...

Thanks,
AppleOnYa

I'm assuming they get to practice this week but the "random" one, I dont get

I havent found out any other information.

I love Ruben's voice. It's the Motown booty girl in me. But Clay can so do the schmooozing involved - the PR stuff. AND he can sing - he is almost flawless in his performances.

Last year, didnt the final 2 (Justin & Kelly) do a duet together?

Ladies and Gentlemen: Ruben and Clay singing:

Ebony and Ivory

Islands in the Stream

Leather and Lace

I Got You Babe

Endless Love

Apple:

Simon and Paula are constantly at each other's throats, disagreeing with each other and ACT like they cant stand each other. But there is an underlying vibe there that most people think they actually love each other and viewers have gone so far as to say they have ROMANTIC feelings for each other. They have often been asked to kiss on camera etc...and have refused.

For your sake Apple, I sure hope they are comparing you to Simon. Paula ain't got a whole lot going on upstairs!!!

How about Pardise By the Dashboard's Light

And who would sing the "do you love me" part? Can Clay's voice go that high?

Thanks Dolce, I had a feeling it was something like that. Actually, this guy can't stand me or my politics and thinks I'm a total jerk and constantly stops just short of saying so (no personal attacks allowed). I think he's intelligent enough but an obnoxious liberal. And I call him on it every time he tries to show me up. Sound like anything that's gone on around here

Anyway we do tend to battle it out and recently, I've decided to take a different road, sarcastic kissy kissy type of posts that I know will make him sick to his stomach. And it has. Thus, the Simon/Paula comparison!!

To his fellow libs on the list, I suppose I am Paula ... but that's ok, since when did a liberal show good judgement???

Thanks again!!
Apple

Yep, Clay is an awesome falsetto-er.
Clay is an awesome everything.
I think it will come down to not only talent, but fanbase, charisma, and personality.
Ruben's "laid back, homey dawg, whateva whateva is all goood" attitude only goes so far for many people, and now a lot of people are calling him boring and moving away.
Ruben seems like a nice guy, but Clay has much better stage personality than him-Clay can talk, and make witty comments, and ham it up. Clay can be funny, and from what I've seen of him, Ruben can mumble and nod. They longest sentence I've heard from him is "Fo sho, dawg."
In the fanbase catagory-Ruben has fans, sure. Does he have crazy, obsessive, diehard, fantasizing fans? No, not many. Clay has a community of obsessive fans in every age group-girls like me, twenty year olds, and middle aged women, even married women!
So, hence, Clay wins. End of story.

Yes maam!!!

Holy Cow. Y'know what? Any three of tonight's singers did great. No one was perfect, and all three had at least one song that was great. "K-Lo" (man, people and their nicknames ) blew me away with her last song. Clay sent shivers up my spine twice. And Ruben was quite competent (though his voice seemed to have some problems tonight).

I really have no idea who's going to win it all, but I assume America has their hearts set on Ruben and Clay for the Top 2. Sure, why not, they'be been the most consistent.

Don't forget - 3 nights of AI next week! woohoo!

So nerve-wracking tonight's show was...

But in the end, Kim was voted off, leaving just Ruben and Clay for the Final 2! WOW - it's gonna be a great 3 shows next week... well, the first two, anyway... can't imagine the tension next Wednesday...!

Sent shivers up your spine - twice You are not one of those sissy-boys are you

So all of this to get to Ruben and Clay - which most people have known was to be since the first few weeks of the season. It is really a tough one to call - very close. I can think a lot of people may watch next week, cause of the hype and see that Clay may be more versitile, and that doesn't mean better, but may vote for him. I think Ruben is more popular for those that have followed him through so far though. I actually think K' Lo was the best overall on ALL three songs this week - although Ruben and Clay probably had better performance than her on an invididual song. I did not like Clay with Unchained Melody - too damn fast - but he did nail it at the end, although no shivers for me - I am all man . Ruben singing 'Smile' was great though. What a great song - a simple song with simple words - but a strong message. It's an old song but when I heard it, it reminded me a time in my life that was very good - but also reminded me of someone close to me that is going through a difficult time now. Bottom line is I can't seem to get the damn song out of my head now. Damn you Ruben.

I heard on the radio coming into work that Vegas may actually be laying odds on the winner - how can they do that when people decide the winners ?

In any event I think the two best made it and that was good. I never watched the first season at all though. I saw last night this Tamara Gray (sp), the one I heard so much about sing for the first time - she has a great voice - but what a horrible rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow.

If I had to bet right now - I think Clay may just squeeze it out.

Although, I am sure as we get closer that LDV will be able to offer some of her interesting tid-bits of facts and up to date info concerning the show. I think she is part of the fan club and is on their mailing lists. Hey, did Clay send shivers up your spine LDV

It takes a lot to send shivers up my spine but I admit I got goosebumps.

All man, huh BDD? And therein lies the challenge. Next time you watch Clay sing, you can sit close to me. If you don't get a shiver of some kind, then YOU are a sissy boy.

Although I just love Ruben's voice, I dont think he has the charisma and personality to carry off the number of whirlwind tours and interviews, he seems to be limited to few words and hand gestures. Clay is real and genuine, it shows. Sometimes in show business, it is not just enough to have talent, you must have personality as well.

Didnt like Clay's rendition of UM, BDD? Of course not like the original, but you have to admit after hearing Justin sing the same song so weakly, it made Clay's sound much better!

His *voice* did

Hmmm - ok, if you say so

</font><blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">quote:</font><hr /><font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Originally posted by Big Daddy Don:
<strong> </font><blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">quote:</font><hr /><font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Originally posted by J Geoff:
<strong> His *voice* did

Hey I have you know I started 10 games later than everyone else.

Now that was simply a cheap shot - you saw what happened when I removed myself from the Curse of Pork though didn't you.

LDV said she got goosebumps if that makes you feel any better. I bet if she did not have that 'jock gene' - she would have had shivers also.

CLAY IS THE SAFESTER!

My dad now officially has no respect for Clay since he couldn't even get the ball to the plate!!!
Clay is adorkable, but that was kinda sad!

Sure he did - it was a breaking ball low and away to a right-handed batter. A great "out" pitch. Ruben would've swung and missed it

HA I forgot all about that, I laughed when I saw that. C'mon he does not have to put high heat right over the middle of the plate, but he is a grown man, he should at least be able to get the ball from the mound to the plate with out a damn bounce. Too funny. Hell, K' Lo would have been able to reach the plate, she probably has a better arm.

OK, I am changing my vote now and leaning towards Ruben. We can't have an American Idol that can't even throw a baseball

BDD, you think Ruben can pitch a baseball????

Yeah, and I think Ryan Seacrest could sink a few 3 point baskets!!!!

Well I do think Ruben can throw Clay from the mound to the plate without a bounce.

And regarding Ryan, I believe he is familiar with some rim shots

Too funny BDD!!

This is the wrong thread to be extolling the virtues of your victorious night last night but I do believe you woke up frisky and cocky this morning...

I just hope YOU are not the one familiar with Ryan's rim shots habits

Wow!! What an incredibl...y lackluster evening for the Top 2. I mean, the song selection was overall dreadful (except Bridge Over Troubled Water). Two of Ruben's songs sounded exactly the same, and he didn't blow me away at all. Hasn't for weeks. And when Clay's first song was an original, I was asking myself WTF he was thinking. It was okay, but not a song to blow everyone away for the LAST NIGHT of the competition! Trouble Water did, though. Ruben's gotta go - Clay rawked the house on his last song. He deserves to win!

1-866-436-5702!!

Tomorrow's gonna be very nerve-wracking... for most of the 2 hours!

I agree there. With all they hype and build up and they were good - but you figure for the last show - I don't know I think I heard better in other shows. Clay on the Bridge Over Troubled Waters was good but 'rock the house' - I don't know about that. Hey JGeoff, did it send shivers down your spine again that is probably the true indicator, maybe we'll see if LDV got goosebumps again.

What I probably found most interesting is at the very end when Ryan was giving their names for the last time - Clay got the majority of applause and you could even see that Ruben noticed and said something to him about it.

It is going to be very close - if I had to bet I would say I think Clay will squeak it out, but I wouldn't want to put any money down.

Actually, no, not tonight In fact, even though I think Ruben has the weaker voice overall, HE actually did at one point...

You wish....

Why is that? You forget to pay up to me on the Kimberly/Trenyce bet?

I agree with you JG, that was the most boring AI show I remember to date and I was thinking this is the best they've got? Who writes these "original" songs?

But I did love Clay's rendition of Bridge Over Troubled Water. One of my fave songs redone in a nice but different way. He was smart to opt to go last on the coin toss...he will make the all important lasting impression.

So here is my prediction and my conspiracy theory.

I heard today that Simon - who actually is the exec or owner of the record company that signs the winner to a contract has already agreed in principal to sign both to a contract. The only stip is that the winner gets their CD released first. So if that is in fact true - regarding the winner getting the contract tonight that is all mute. So I think Clay will now win because he is more apt at making the rounds on TV - talking up the AI experience etc - thus raking in more $$$ for AI than Ruben may. Ruben of course will go off and record his songs and hopefully do well at that - the man can sing.

In the end it all comes down to $$$ - and speaking of which tonight episode will basically be a 2 hour infomercial for all the products of AI year 1 and 2, the upcoming tour - the upcoming AI for Kids etc.

I really hope Ruben wins!

So now who is part of the fan club/mailing list? You seem to know a lot more about tonight's show than the average bear.

Oh, I forgot. Today is your cocky day.

I like the way you conveniently glossed over our bet. We can make it double or nothing. We can guess what color the judges will be wearing. Simon a black tee shirt, Dawg Randy wearing his light blue jean shirt and Paula? That could be the deciding factor. It's a sure gimme that she will do that stupid open-handed clap out in front of her.

And a sure bet that Kim (Pagaent Queen) Caldwell will get her mug on camera somehow during this finale.

Actually if you must know, I read it in the newspaper - no I believe you are probably the only one on the AI mailing list.

Yes, Paula will do that stupid seal clap, Randy will give a standing O at least once, and Simon will say something how they both made the show proud and both are a winner - cause he makes $$ off of both of them.

And finally I agree Kimberly Caldwell will be crying with the winner (Clay), right in the middle of the stage - and I'll even bet they show her mother - the one with all the plastic surgery in the audience at least one also.

No bet then? Damn.

Chicken.

I am not making this up-
I fainted during This Is the Night.
It was so freaking amazing, I almost died. Luckily, I was sitting on the couch when I fainted, and my parents thought I was faking so they didn't make me turn it off. I got so dizzy, and then just let out this little shrill shriek of "Clay!", and then blacked out on the couch.
Bridge Over Troubled Waters was amazing, too. I loved both of them so much.

Funny I thought he sounded OK, but I thought the song sucked - reminded me of a Disney song for a cartoon - but hey who am I?

If it affected you that much, maybe you should touch base with JGeoff and arrange and AI party - he get shivers when he hears Clay sing

JGeoff - hopefully that will teach you to taunt me about my last place standing in Fantasy Baseball.

Just wondering, when is the finale where we get to see who won it all?

JJ - tonight is the finale - 2 hours- dont know what time where you're at, but here it is 7 Mountain Time.

Thin Clemenza...you are truly a die hard Clay fan. No man has ever made me even FEEL faint without touching me. Did you see those women the other nights with the T-shirts that called themselves "Claymates"? You need one of those. The one woman who got up on stage and answered useless trivia about him looks to me like a certifiable stalker. But she got not one but two hugs from Clay. Would that make you faint too?

TC - I voted for Clay. Good luck. He will do that downward, eye-batting, shy look when he whispers thank you when he wins - just for you!! ....

And the Winner is...




















RUUUUUUBEN!!!!


Dammit - the contest was fixed! Clays voice is infinitely stronger, and, I guarantee a year from now Clay will be a superstar and Ruben will be singing in his church choir. But in any event - congrats, Ruben!

But - when they come out, I'm getting both CDs... they're both great (tho Clay is better )

Okay, let me first start by saying congradulations, RUBEN! I was pulling for him; hoping he'd win. I had a bad feeling Clay would... But, alas, Ruben did; and thank God he did. Now... As I was enjoying the aftermath of Ruben's victory over Clay... I got an Instant Message from someone.

As most of you may know, I'm on my vacation from the forums. I was enjoying it very much, relaxing, etc. All of the sudden, I hear Geoff's on the site saying it was fixed? One word for that...

EXCUSES!

How can you say it was fixed? Have you seen America's fascination with Ruben Studdard? Freaking Alabama has their own "Ruben Day!" On all the talk shows, you see people talking about Ruben. I think Diane Sawyer likes Clay more... But, besides that, even the celebrities love Ruben! Even my hero, Quentin Tarantino loves Ruben! Have you noticed the thousands of people with "205" shirts? Are you saying, even for a second; that Clay had more votes, and it was fixed? Utter bullshit! Don't make me verbally rape you, Geoff.

I can tell you this, Clay is awesome. I never liked him... But, I have to admit, the guy can fucking sing. But, to put down Ruben, just because he won, and say it was fixed... That's pretty rude. Both men deserved the win, and Ruben got it. Don't put him down for it; think positive for him. You can be upset; but saying it's fixed... You're being a sore loser! Just embrace the fact that Ruben is our new American Idol. Just like Clay, the guy can sing.

Now, with that... I'm heading back on my vacation from around here. If I hear anything more about you, Geoff, talking about Ruben... Don't think for a second I won't come storming back!

(Vercetti, you rat! )

You're not going anywhere, biotch, while this topic remains on the front page of the boards

First off, "it was fixed!" is a figure of speech - I didn't mean it literally. Sheesh!

I think it's amazing, out of 25 million votes, that there was only a 1,335 vote difference! After hearing that, I knew it could go either way.

Now, don't get me wrong: I don't dislike Ruben at all. I just believe that Clay is the better singer (by far) technically, and, has more of a teen idol presence on stage.

Ruben is always out of breath, and his range is limited. Even the past couple of weeks. And I think I must've been the ONLY one to notice his voice going out of tune slightly all over the place. Clay's voice is 100% perfect. He will be a HUGE Broadway star, so I'm not upset.

Sure, Ruuuben will get his $1 million contract. Good for him! He'll put out his album, and it'll sell well, and he'll be big (ahem). But I don't think he'll last. A year after that CD, as I said, he'll be back in his church choir. Clay, however, ten years from now, will have won a couple Tony Awards on Broadway. He'll be the next Marc Anthony (if he's already not bigger).

As I was telling Lombardi before the winner was announced, I won't be too upset either way, cuz they're both winners in my book. They'll both do well. I just think, IMHO, that Clay's career will outlast Ruben's - by far.

I just saw Simon on live TV, saying last night he thought Clay was going to win, but after watching the tape again, he changed his vote to Ruben. Interesting. But as he said, he's gonna be rich and famous regardless.

Lombardi - If you noticed, I'm not fighting you here; sorry to disappoint you

And Thin Clemenza... girl... I hope you recover!

Hey, I wanted to see some controversy!

BTW - I'm FOX-5 (NY) has been showing live after-party interviews this past hour. Of note...

1) Simon was asked if he ever got goosebumps listening to the singers, and he said his nipples get hard

2) Clay admited that he and Kimberly Locke could very well become roommates if they move out to LA (or wherever their careers take them)

You bastard! You told me you were gonna give me a fight! Thanks for the great debate! Sheesh!

You think Clay is better? Good. I think Ruben is better? Good. Opinions, opinions. We won't be able to change each other's; just voice them. So, there's not reason arguing about THAT... But there IS a sense arguing about Ruben's career length. Let me get to some other things first.

Ruben being out of breathe? Shit, man! Clay is less than one hundred fifty pounds! I heard somewhere Ruben is about three hundred fifty! What do you expect, man? Ruben is huge... He's bound to sweat and be out of breathe. He's in front of all of America, on stage, with lights shining on him, singing his heart out..You expect him to be in tact; shape wise? Also, adding he's three hundred fifty pounds! Give the dude a break.

Okay, I did not, at all, hear Ruben go off key. NEVER, within the last couple of weeks, did I. I doubt he has... Maybe that's just your mind playing games with you; since you like Clay. The man can sing. As far as him having a limited range? He has a smooth, jazzy, R & B type sound. It's called style, bro. That's Ruben's style. I don't recall Clay removing himself from the style he has. Ruben has, regardless of what you think or who you like, switched it up a little bit... Singing songs in different genres. Simon said one week Ruben's sound was sort of predictable... Did you see Simon the next week? Said he proved he can switch it up; while sticking to his style. And you KNOW that's true, when it's Simon saying it.

Now, what I forgot to comment on last time... Ruben being no where in a year? That seriously made me laugh. HAVE YOU NOT SEEN AMERICA'S FASCINATION WITH RUBEN STUDDARD? The man is already a star! He has a million dollar contract, is the American Idol, is going to be recording soon, and won over America... Nothing you say can take that away from him. And the man will be HUGE; and it will last. I can guarantee it. I just asked you, before you posted, though... If you'd like to bet. C'mon, in public, on the boards; I want me and you to bet. I bet you that Ruben will be climbing the ladder to stardom within the next year, or few years even, and not singing at his church. How much you wanna bet? Fifty bucks sound okay? We can go higher; 'cause I know I'll win.

I'm done. Thanks for your time.

As I said to you in IM, Clay is a better singer, technically. It's not subjective, it can be measured. Perhaps my ears are sensitive to off notes, cuz I did hear them. Often. As for being out of breath while he's singing - dude - I don't care if he's 350 lbs - if he's out of breath singing, that doesn't make him a good candidate for American Idol cuz he won't last more than 3 songs on stage, let alone 90-120 solid minutes! He'll need an oxygen tank up there. Why make excuses for him being out of breath all the time? That's not an opinion, that's a fact. And, that fact makes him a weaker singer.

Style. Yeah, you're right. They obviously have very different styles. But what was this contest looking for? An R&B singer or a Pop idol? And style and range have nothing to do with each other at all. There are R&B singers with incredible vocal range. Ruben isn't one of them.

And yes, America loves Rubben. He's an adorable 350-lb teddy bear. How can you not love that? Clay is a pencil thin geek, with probably quesitonable sexual preference - but none of that matters to me. What *I* was looking for in this competition was for the Best potential Pop idol. Not just the voice (tho that is most important), but the whole package. Clay's transformation to dork to teen idol, to me, show's that he has what it takes. As LDV has said, he's much better suited for television talk shows and all that. To me, I think Clay has the most markatable package, overall.

America has made their pick. A freakin' close one, too. So I respect that, and can live with it. (I'm really not as upset as you may think)

Now, for the last time, I will again say that I like Ruben. He's gonna be successful. I'm just saying, a couple years from now, America will know that Clay should've won, because he'll be more successful in his career.

As for betting on it - I'll bet you. Let me think about for what, or how much, or whatever.

And you're not done yet...

Geoff, you gonna answer me question?

Ahem, privately

edit- thanks

You can measure range, sure. But range is one, out of the many things, that makes you a good singer. Just 'cause Ruben doesn't go off into feedback solos with his voice, doesn't make Clay better. Again, different styles. Clay can go off with high pitches and what not; but do you for a second think he can do a low pitch? I haven't heard him; but I've heard Ruben do it. It's all style, and different ranges. Ruben has the low type R&B voice, Clay has the high pitched... Whatever you call it -- Broadway -- voice.

Making excuses for being out of breathe? You don't care if he's three hundred fifty pounds? Then you shouldn't complain about that. Big people get tired faster... The guy is big; so the guy runs out of breathe and sweats. IT HAS EVERYTHING TO DO WITH IT. THAT, my friend, is a fact, and not an opinion.... And it most certainly is not an excuse. Bigger people sweat and run out of breathe quicker... It's a fact; and it's not an excuse, nor opinion.

There are R&B singer with vocal range, of course. Shit like Destiny's Child, WHICH I HATE... Where they go off in feedback solos. I don't like that... That's NEW R&B, I don't like that. Maybe that's why I like Ruben so much. He's more like an old fashioned R&B, which I like, more than this new R&B shit. He can hit those low notes, as I've heard him. Music isn't all about singing so high that it cracks glass.

Thank you, you just proved my point! Ruben is an adorable teddy bear, with talent. So how in the BLUE HELL are you going to say he's not gonna get anywhere; or his success won't last? You better damn well know it was last! Everyone loves the guy, and he has talent... What's that mean? Ruben will be a huge success, get far... And last long. And he won't be back in his church within a year. I, though, got into this show because of VOCAL TALENT. You saying Clay is better suited for talk shows and shit is EXACTLY WHAT I HATE. I hate this whole personification with image. It's about the MUSIC, and not who makes a better talk show guest. Ruben is a good singer, as is Clay... That's why they are good... And not because Ruben is big and soft, and not because Clay improved his image. It's about music, not image.

Yes, America has picked their winner; and it's Ruben. Though, you sound like you hate him. Be nice!

As for the bet... I'd say fifty bucks? That sound good? Not too high, not too low. Just a small bet so I can prove ya wrong.

You're not hearing me. Not being able to physically perform a full-length concert without going out of breath is NOT an opinion. If he can't perform, he's not suited for it, and therefore not suitable as a pop idol.

As for range, you had two opportunities to hear Clay's rendition of Bridge Over Troubled Water, which is sung very low in the beginning.

As for R&B Style, I wasn't even talking about that "new" stuff - that's NOT R&B to me, at all. And if you think it's "all about the music" then, bro, sorry to break the news to you: the record charts have NOTHING to do with talent. It's all image and tens of thousands of dollars of studio mixing and fixing to make some talentless schmuck sound good. They only bother doing that, cuz the person has the right "image"; they just make him/her sound good in the studio.

And stop saying I hate Ruben - I won't repeat myself again

I'll get back to you on that bet.

Cheapskate...

Instigator

Man, he can perform a full concert. Just 'cause he's sweating and out of breathe? That doesn't mean he won't be able to sing a full concert. When I saw Stone Temple Pilots live... Scott Weiland was sweating; and CLEARLY out of breathe... But still put on the best show I have ever seen. Just 'cause he gets tired, doesn't mean he won't carry on.

I heard Clay's version of it. But, his low notes weren't that great. Ruben hit some high notes a couple times... They weren't that great. Low notes aren't Clay's area; and high notes aren't Ruben. As I said, it's all a preference of style.

The new R&B shit is exactly what I'm talking about. I think it's good that Ruben doesn't go off into a high pitched feedback like the new shit. He has a low pitched old fashion R&B sound; which I like... Alot. A smooth voice. About it being about the music... WELL DUH! I hate that everything is about image nowadays... That's what I'm trying to say. You're saying Clay is better suited for talk shows and shit... And I say THAT DOESN'T MATTER. 'Cause it's about the music, to me and any true music fan, over style/image. And that's why I pick Ruben... 'Cause I personally like his style and voice better... And I don't go by image.

I didn't say you hate Ruben, I said you act like it. QUIT PICKING ON HIM! As for the bet... I think fifty sounds good.

Ugh, I can see Vercetti is still up to his cheap one liners.

First off, I never said a word about sweating - I don't give a crap about that. Everyone sweats. Not an issue. As for lack of breath (breath, of course, being the life force of one's voice)... Scott Weiland isn't a candidate for a heart attack on stage. He can handle it, and power through it. I don't think Ruben can handle it, but, I guess we'll see.

I'm about done here, with this. I'll just add it really doesn't matter. OF COURSE it should be about the music. But it's not. I've been in and around the music business for many years. Trust me on this one: it's not about the music. At least for radio/charts. That is, where the money is. Of course there's a lot of great music out there. But you also must notice the great music isn't anywhere on the charts, or on the radio, and it's not making the major labels the money they greedily want.

Sure, I like a lot of popular music - it's pure entertainment. It's not necessarily the best "music" out there, cuz the "best" music is usually underground or indie, and is never heard by all the schmucks who voted in this competition.

But this competition wasn't about "music" - it was about -- again -- finding a Pop Idol. Period. End of story.

So yeah... we differ in opinion, which is fine. That makes the world more interesting.

And if you want to give me $50 next year, that's fine with me Set a date I should check Billboard magazine and other sources to determine "success"...

And where are everyone else's opinions on this? Sheesh!

There's plenty of heavy guys who are out of breathe, huge, and so on. The lead singer of Blue's Travler, for example, used to be HUUUUUUUGE... And still put on great shows. Ruben has been out of breathe when he sings; but he was still able to sing pretty damn good, even out of breathe. That doesn't mean his talent is any less... He'll still put out good music.

Basically... I have to agree completely with your second paragraph. It SHOULD be about the music. But, one thing is... FOR ANY TRUE MUSICIAN, THAT'S WHAT IT'S ABOUT. I'm sure Ruben and Clay, who are true musicians(singers, I should say), would know that it's their music we should be listening and voting for... Not the image. And I'm just saying that's why I like Ruben better; his musical style and vocals, and not his image. I don't like Clay's style too much. And, I can also say I like alot of popular music. Green Day, Nirvana, Goo Goo Dolls, Stone Temple Pilots, Rage Against The Machine, Ramones, Sex Pistols, Clash, etc... Popular, but never the less, good.

What's being a pop star really; deep inside -- at the core and in the beginning -- about? Music. What are they doing? Singing and making music. What do teens and media make it into? Image... BUT, what it should and really is about is the music. Weather it be rock, rap, pop, country; it's the music, not the image. And that's why Ruben should have, and did, win. More people like his music style than they did Clay.

We'll see about that... I'll have fifty extra bucks in my pocket; and you'll be fifty bucks poorer. We'll see when Ruben has a number one album, with hits from his CD.

Now... I'm gonna get back on my vacation. Just came back to this one topic for tonight since it was the finale of American Idol. I said I'd be gone a couple weeks at first; but I'll be busy within the next month. Should be back mid to late June. I'll probably check in tomorrow -- and every now and then -- just on this thread. Besides that... I'm off like a dirty shirt. See ya.

BTW - That song Ruben sang last night (that I don't particularly like, but whatever), it's being released as a CD single tomorrow morning. And it'll sell fairly well, cuz the buzz is still going. We'll see how it does. But a year from now, if it was released then, it wouldn't sell 2 copies (LDV being the one to buy it )

JG - you think you know me....

I won't be buying it. I didn't like it. It bored me the first time he sung it and it never grew on me after that.

I wasn't home last night to watch the whole finale. I got home just in time to see the announcement of the winner. I was pretty apathetic in hearing it.

I love Ruben's voice and his style of singing. I dont feel Ruben has the "image" to be an "Idol" and I dont feel it has anything to do with his weight. I feel he is boring and limited as a performer. He lacks the charisma and charm that Clay has as a performer.

When you think that in regards to the top 3 - this was the best talent and image for singers in America? All 3 very, very talented, but all proved they did not fit the cookie-cutter specifications you would think make an idol these days.

But in 5 years, where will Kelly and Ruben be, REALLY?

Kelly Clarkson has only had that one song 'A Moment Like This' and after that, she sort of dis-appeared. I had forgotten about her until she made that appearance last night on the finale. I can't wait for the new 'American Juniors' to start. I want to hear the HORRIBLE little voices in the auditions and what their parents have to say when they get rejected.

I love watching stage mom's freak out because their kid sucks and they just can't get over it! I think that the Jouniors might have better voices then the American Idols.

I knew Ruben would win! I dont like that Clay, he seems too fruity for me. But, YAY RUBEN!

ROOOOOOOOOO!!!

Sorry I didn't reply sooner, but the final was last night...

I am not sure whether he will last or not. Kelly Clarkson was not very good, but Ruben is an idol. People love this cuddly velvet teddly bear, and I think they'll stick with him longer than most crappy reality music things (remember Hear'say? ) He's very good, and I think he will last well. It is very good that he won: why? Because Clay will make it anyway. He's an instant superstar, barely lost, and has one of the greatest voices I've heard. I think he will get somewhere.

Ruben is better...Clay is too much of a crooner for a pop idol...Ruben is very likeable and very talented.

I'll say it again: ROOOOOOOOOOO!!!

-Penguin

EXACTLY! Have you seen the commercials where the dad gets ticked off because his kid didn't get picked? HA!


I dont like that Clay, he seems too fruity for me.

AMEN, Sister !!

From AP -
Studdard, who edged Clay Aiken to win the second "American Idol" competition on Wednesday, has already been signed to J Records, founded by music mogul Clive Davis. And his first single, "Flying Without Wings," which Studdard sang during the competition, will be released next week.

So I can just imagine LDV either on Amazon or down at a local Target waiting to pick this up. And AL also - I can see him with his Ruben shirt on waiting to get it also.

While Thin Clemenzia and JGeoff will probably be outside the stores protesting - claiming it was fixed.

Clay lost. Whoopdefreakindo. However, he has...
1.Millions of obsessive fans who will watch his interviews, buy his CDs, and support him in anything.
2.A single that is about to go platinum by preorder alone.
3.An album coming out in November.
4.A recording deal with Clive Davis.
5.Fame, fortune, and basically anything he wants.


Sounds pretty good to me!
I was so upset when he lost I cried for about an hour, but now that I think it out, Clayton is one lucky man.

I was worried about you, TC

You are absolutely right, that's why I wasn't that upset... but I still believe Clay's professional singing career will outlast Ruben's.

I'll buy both their CD's when they come out. They both deserved it.

Did he get a recording deal with Clive Davis? But he didn't win? What makes Ruben better off than him? On the whole, I'm glad. Clay and Ruben are both wonderful, they both deserve to go somewhere.

-Penguin

Ruben the fat black man won right? After seeing him I can not help but wonder how long it's going to take that fat piece of shit to die from eating fast food. How long do you think it's going to take?

Is that the first "Idol" over there guys? Judging by the ones that have happened over here over the past coupla years, the careers never surpass three months!

Mick

Nice

It was the second one, CdLCN - last years winner had a #1 album for, I think about 5 minutes... a year after she won

(from Billboard/Yahoo )

Studdard, Aiken Singles to Go Head-To-Head
Thu Jun 5, 9:38 PM ET

By Barry A. Jeckell

NEW YORK (Billboard) - Consumers will vote with their dollars next week when "American Idol" winner Ruben Studdard's debut single is released on the same day as that of runner-up Clay Aiken.

Both singles are due out next Tuesday (June 10), less than three weeks after the finale of the Fox reality show/talent contest's second season.

Studdard's J Records single will feature his version of Westlife's "Flying Without Wings" and his cover of the Carpenters' "Superstar."

RCA will issue Aiken's rendition of Simon & Garfunkel's "Bridge Over Troubled Water" and the original song "This Is the Night," written by Aldo Nova (news), Gary Burr, and Chris Braide (news). The singers performed each of the songs during the "Idol" contest.

Both artists are expected to release their debut albums in September. RCA Music Group chairman and J Records founder Clive Davis will executive produce both.

Studdard will return home to Birmingham, Ala., on Sunday to make a video for "Flying Without Wings." The Eric White-directed clip may be shot in the city's Linn Park, with local fans invited to take part in the "welcome home" celebration. At deadline the site had not yet been confirmed, according to a label representative.

Studdard and Aiken will be seen promoting their singles Tuesday on "The Oprah Winfrey (news) Show." The "American Idol" -themed episode of the syndicated show will also feature first season runner-up Justin Guarini, whose self-titled RCA album will be released that day.

A third "American Idol" season is planned. A banner on the show's Web site (http://www.idolonfox.com) says only that it will return in 2004, but gives no exact dates for the competition or audition information.

###

I told you it was fixed!! Here's my proof:

Aiken, Studdard Storm Pop Singles Chart

Wed Jun 18, 4:36 PM ET
By Fred Bronson

LOS ANGELES (Billboard) - The top two "American Idol" contestants capture the top two spots on Billboard's Hot 100, as Clay Aiken's "This Is the Night" (RCA) debuts at No. 1 and Ruben Studdard's "Flying Without Wings" (J Records) opens at No. 2. It's the first time in the 45-year history of the Hot 100 that the top two positions are new entries.

Aiken's "This Is the Night" is the first song to debut at No. 1 on the Hot 100 since 1998, and the first since chart rules were changed to allow airplay-only tracks to appear on the chart alongside commercially released singles. Those new chart policies make it almost impossible for a song to enter the chart in pole position, or in the top-5, but the massive sales on the two "Idol" singles made their historic debuts possible.

Aiken's single sold nearly 393,000 copies and Studdard's single moved nearly 286,000 units, according to Nielsen SoundScan. "This Is the Night" boasts the biggest one-week sales figures since Elton John's "Candle in the Wind 1997."

Aiken was the runner-up on "American Idol," with just 130,000 votes out of 25 million separating him from Studdard's first-place finish. The winner was guaranteed a recording contract, but Aiken didn't know he would also have a record deal until he heard judge Simon Cowell announce on the series' finale that he and Studdard would have their singles released on the same day.

"This Is the Night" is the second No. 1 single by an "American Idol" contestant. Kelly Clarkson, winner of the series' first season competition, spent two weeks on top of the Hot 100 in October 2002 with "A Moment Like This" (RCA). Clarkson shares a No. 1 position this week in Billboard with Aiken, as her song "Miss Independent" moves to No. 1 on Billboard's Top 40 Tracks chart, which measures airplay at top 40 radio.

The Aiken and Studdard singles debut at No. 1 and No. 2 on Billboard's Hot 100 Singles Sales tally. The artists also appear on the No. 3 entry, the American Idol Finalists' "God Bless the U.S.A.," which had been No. 1 for eight weeks.


Reuters/Billboard

The August issue of Maxim arrived today and who has a spread gracing the pages of this magazine? Yep, Kimberly Caldwell.

Though not Playboy, I called that one right, didn't I? And it only took a little over 2 months! Pics are somewhat sexy and tasteful.... I dunno, I was never a Kim C. fan.

Gotta be better than her voice... Mmmm, Maxim... but Buff, that's a Mens' magazine... hello? Is nothing sacred any more?