NEW YORK (AP) — "American Idol" executive producer Nigel Lythgoe says don't expect any major changes when the hit Fox TV show returns in January after undergoing an extensive makeover last season.
Lythgoe, who helped transform Britain's "Pop Idol" into the American TV juggernaut in 2002, returned as executive producer last season to usher in the post-Simon Cowell era. That ended a two-year hiatus that allowed him to focus on "So You Think You Can Dance," which he produces and helps judge.
For the 10th "American Idol" season, Lythgoe introduced new judges, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler, to join holdover Randy Jackson. Veteran music producer Jimmy Iovine, chairman of Interscope-Geffen-A&M, was brought in as an in-house mentor for the contestants. All of them are back for Season 11, Lythgoe said.
"I think we made a lot of tweaks last year," Lythgoe said. "I'm not sure that we want to make too many more tweaks this year." Lythgoe said the most significant change introduced last year had nothing to do with the judges: It was a decision to avoid those fish-out-of-water moments that forced very talented singers to sing in styles that didn't suit them.
"The biggest change we made last year was to say, 'OK, if you're a country singer you can sing any of these genres in your country style,'" Lythgoe said. "'We're not going to force you to do rock or anything you can't do. You can take a Michael Jackson song and turn it country.'"
That resulted in singers such as Casey Abrams and Haley Reinhart advancing much deeper into the competition than they might have in previous years. The two teenage finalists, Scotty McCreery and Lauren Alaina, were country singers.
McCreery, the first pure country "Idol" winner since Carrie Underwood in 2005, saw his October release, "Clear As Day," make him the first country act to debut at No. 1 with its first studio album on the Billboard 200 chart. And at 18, he became the youngest man to open at the top of the chart with his debut release. He also was the first "Idol" winner to start his post-"Idol" career with a No. 1 album since Ruben Studdard in 2003.
Lythgoe said last year the show found "some incredible talent, and it was so diverse."
"We got this great jazz singer in Casey, we got a soft jazz singer in Haley, and the two country kids (in the finals) probably in previous years wouldn't have been as successful because they would have been asked to sing in the different styles that we used to do then," he said last week.
Lythgoe expects similar results in Season 11.
"The kids that have auditioned this year that we're going to be taking to Hollywood in December are again really talented and really diverse," he said. "Hopefully they'll get through one of the toughest auditions, which is the Hollywood week, and get themselves into the top 20."
Lythgoe said he believes "Idol" should be "totally about the talent" and the recent changes foster that.
"For me," he said, "it's really showing the talent that is here and not trying to take somebody who's talented, beat them around the bucket and turn them out." ___ Online: http://www.americanidol.com
Pretty close. "Unlike Idol, where contestants are solely judged by the judges, on The X Factor each judge mentors the finalists in a particular category, aiding them with song selection and styling, while also participating together in judging the contestants of the other categories."
Yes, the X-Factor killed off Pop Idol and now minus Mr. Cowell, that is going down the pan as well. Soon all we will have left will be Big Brother and I'm A Celebrity....Get Me Out of Here!!!!!!!!!
Yes, the X-Factor killed off Pop Idol and now minus Mr. Cowell, that is going down the pan as well. Soon all we will have left will be Big Brother and I'm A Celebrity....Get Me Out of Here!!!!!!!!!
i doubt britian x-factor will be cancelled...actually does anything in britian get cancelled?
Yes, the X-Factor killed off Pop Idol and now minus Mr. Cowell, that is going down the pan as well. Soon all we will have left will be Big Brother and I'm A Celebrity....Get Me Out of Here!!!!!!!!!
i doubt britian x-factor will be cancelled...actually does anything in britian get cancelled?
We've been tuning in. They seem to have a great deal of talent, don't they? I enjoy the bad auditions, but I'm glad they are keeping them to a minimum. They're fun in small doses.
I wanted to throw something at the TV last night! Get them some Saltines and Orange Juice. That's all they needed. That and a kick in the butt. And I'm sorry that the first girl who fainted didn't make it, because she seemed to be talented, but am glad we're spared more of her father on TV. Someone should introduce him to David Archuleta's dad.
I LOVE Heejun, the kid who hated being in group with the cowboy. He was freaking hilarious! "I'm sorry I talked craps about you...", but he still refused to shake the guys hand.
I haven't really been watching this season. In between the whine-y contestants and the judges' complete inability to give ANY meaningful criticism...to me, the show has become too happy. Seriously, there have been some horrible singers that have made it through that would have NEVER made it through had Simon still been judging. I'm not saying that the judges need to go into total "dick mode" and tear some of these bad singers apart, but they certainly haven't been as selective as they once were.
the voice is by far better than american idol now, x factor is second. a couple things i hated the most about american idol is the stupid groups (what's the point besides causing drama) and every week they do a specific genre or singer (chances are they will do a whitney houston week).
Well, "those stupid groups" allow more contestants a chance to make it, as well as appear on TV. We have no idea how the Top 100-200 are whittled down on The Voice or X-Factor -- probably just the choice of the producers.
But it's funny how every year Randy says this year has the best talent yet -- and he might be right about that.
Well, "those stupid groups" allow more contestants a chance to make it, as well as appear on TV. We have no idea how the Top 100-200 are whittled down on The Voice or X-Factor -- probably just the choice of the producers.
But it's funny how every year Randy says this year has the best talent yet -- and he might be right about that.
The Voice does whittle down by giving those who actually have talent a ticket to try out in front of the judges. and, geoff what about that stupid sudden rule change about the groups having a mix of day 1 and day 2 contestants? that was stupid.
I would like to know how they decide who goes through to the judges on American Idol. My daughter said that Amber Riley from "Glee" tried out for AI a few years ago and was dismissed by the screeners. She never made it to the judges. Now, Amber Riley can SING, so I wonder why she was rejected?
what about that stupid sudden rule change about the groups having a mix of day 1 and day 2 contestants? that was stupid.
It's not stupid at all (nor do I think it started this year), because Day 1 contestants forming groups would have an extra day to prepare, giving them an unfair advantage.
Originally Posted By: Sicilian Babe
My daughter said that Amber Riley from "Glee" tried out for AI a few years ago and was dismissed by the screeners. She never made it to the judges. Now, Amber Riley can SING, so I wonder why she was rejected?
I'm curious about that process myself. I asked Mig about it (her niece auditioned but wasn't chosen), but didn't hear back. Amber is one of the best young singers I know -- but who knows what criteria they use or what they're "looking for". But she's better off on Glee, probably, anyway!
Oh you naive people. Don't you know by now that the public and all those phone calls have little to do with the outcome? The producers select everyone. Talent is a factor, but hey, let's face it, hundreds of people have talent, but are they marketable? That is the deciding factor. Are they marketable? Can the producers make money? I only watch Idol and yes there have been duds in the past, but you're still watching the show and sponsors are still buying air time. I repeat, SPONSORS ARE SILL BUYING AIR TIME. End of discussion.
If it was an absolute known fact, then the sponsors probably wouldn't still buy air time. But hey, they buy airtime for the worst programs on TV as well. And they buy airtime for AI's competition as well. They buy airtime whether people watch or not, only the price of the spot changes. No sponsor wants to be involved with a farce, so I'm not buying it (tho I wouldn't be 100% shocked, either).
Are each and everyone of us ! That go out and do the best we can for the day , put food on our tables , take care of our family , and fight idiots ! The military, cops, firefighters, and , those who stand up for the weak ! Nurses, Doctor's , PA's , all Health Professionals! Truck Drivers, cab drivers, Journalist's ! And who are hero's , Idols, Ole folks that have worked all there lifes, for what we have and kids dieing from cancer before they even got to kick ass ! Those to me are American Idol's , the rest don't cut snot ! (Spit)
If it was an absolute known fact, then the sponsors probably wouldn't still buy air time. But hey, they buy airtime for the worst programs on TV as well. And they buy airtime for AI's competition as well. They buy airtime whether people watch or not, only the price of the spot changes. No sponsor wants to be involved with a farce, so I'm not buying it (tho I wouldn't be 100% shocked, either).
I just like to stir the pot. My wife and daughter get their hackles up when I say this stuff. Especially when I tell them that their phone-in votes are really NOT tabulated.
After weeks of being on the verge of beating “American Idol’s” once-behemoth ratings, “The Big Bang Theory” has officially come out on top.
The CBS comedy grabbed 16.1 million viewers — that’s 700,000 more than watched Fox’s singing competition show on Thursday, according to Nielsen overnight ratings.
This marks the first time a series has bested “Idol” in a head-to-head battle since “Grey’s Anatomy” pulled it off in 2007.
Despite “Idol” judge Steven Tyler’s stripping act, Thursday’s show was the least-watched episode of “Idol” since its 2002 premiere, according to reports.
The half-hour “Big Bang” starring Jim Parsons has been consistently tying or coming in as a close second to “Idol” since the two shows started airing opposite each other earlier this year.
The great talent and reality show that employed all the best and nice competitors in it , also they are doing very well to prove them , i really appreciate their zeal to better among the expectations always.
That's why I hate the idea of Top 24 being divided the way it is. It should be the 24 most talented, not 12 girls and 12 boys (although they did make it 13).
I got through the first 45 minutes of last night's episode and had to change the channel. I was literally bored to tears. The first guy's jazz rendition of "Moves Like Jagger" was different, but different doesn't necessarily mean good in this case. The rest that I did see all had talent, but the show itself is just boring! I hate to be "that guy", especially when I've been a fan of this show for so long, but in my most humble of opinions, I think American Idol has run its course.
That doesn't mean it's going away anytime soon, though.
For the past 10 years the judges kept telling the contestants it'd be rough trying to cover songs by difficult superstars like Stevie and Mariah, etc, but next week is just that. Should be interesting....
Take note, the diversity of the contestants is manipulated. They try to cover all styles, genres, ethnicities, etc. to bring in a wide audience, which attracts sponsors of all different products that will pander to different demographics. It's just a money game, so phone in your vote to make it real
MC may be right to a point -- there needs to be some variety, etc, to gain maximum audience. I have no problem with that when it comes to narrowing down the lot from hundreds to dozens, or even the Top 24. I just don't want to find out that the 50 million votes mean nothing after that!
We want to buy the whole concept - a nobody gets hand-picked from tens of thousands of young hopefuls and is catapulted to stardom. We want to buy that fairy tale. The truth is, it's a TV show and needs ratings to get sponsors. It will manipulate the audience to its best advantage.
It's like that show about coupons. The people buy $700 worth of stuff for twelve cents. However, they don't tell you that the stores make deals with the show to honor and double coupons that they normally would not accept so that they can appear on the show.
Top 13 - Music by Stevie Wonder (guys) & Whitney Houston (gals), with mentor Mary J. Blige
For the first time, it's Guys vs Gals. One of each will be the Bottom 2, and the judges will send one home.
IMHO:
Code:
A- Jessica "I Will Always Love You"
B+ Joshua "I Wish"
B+ Hollie "All the Man That I Need"
B+ Deandre "Master Blaster"
B Colton "Lately"
B Jeremy "Rivers In The Sky"
B Skylar "Where Do Broken Hearts Go?"
B Erika "I Believe in You and Me"
B Jermaine "Knocks Me on My Feet"
B- Shannon "I Have Nothing"
C+ Philip "Superstition"
C Elise "I'm Your Baby Tonight"
C- Heejun "All is Fair in Love"
In order of appearance:
Joshua was very good. R: Blew it out, you can do anything; J: Felt it; S: Brought it home, nailed it
Elise was a bit shaky. J: Not your best; S: Good but wrong song; R: Boxing with the song, not best
Jermaine was okay. S: Perfect; J: Connect with song more, relax; R: Love the verses, not the chorus
Erika was okay, too. R: Unbelievable, yes yes go go; J: Goosies before you even started singing, safe, stop thinking; S: Beautiful
Colton has a great voice, but not perfect here. This could be recorded now. S: Outstanding; J: Great; R: Not picture perfect in beginning, then flawless, well done
Shannon hit some good big notes, but shaky - then effed up. J: Thinking got the best of you, capable, relax; S: Nerves; R: We know you can sing that song
Deandre, I love his voice. S: Beautiful, loved it; J: Have rhythm and soul; R: Didn't want it to stop
Skylar I like, some pitchy spots, some money shots. J: Definition of composure, not all perfect, amazing; S: Beautiful, well done; R: You can sing any song (not just country)
Heejun was disappointing as I liked him early, pitchy, perhaps too soft. J: I love you; S: Fantastic, special; R: Not perfect but really good
Hollie has some great potential. R: Big song, nailed it; J: Beautiful; S: Nailing it, really nice
Jeremy has a nice voice. S: Velvety smooth voice; J: Really really beautiful; R: Not your best, more swag
Jessica showed great voice control, practically perfect, wow. R: Give it all to her, legit, OMG; J: Just just amazing, speechless; S: You may be the one
Philip is cool, but kinda gets old after a short while. S: Lots of 'fuggedaboutit' in your vocals [huh?]; J: Made it your own, killed it; R: We need you, you drive your own car in your own lane, I love it
Just watched the performances. I think that Joshua, Erika, Hollie, Skylar and Jessica gave stand out performances. The others? Meh. The boys are just not great. I wish they had put Reed through instead of Deandre and his hair. At least he would have been interesting.
I do hope they keep Jermaine around, simply because it is hilarious when he stands next to Ryan Seacrest.
I thought Georgia Peaches would never end. Dear Lord, I get it. They're peaches, they're from Georgia, nothing's sweeter, no need to repeat it ad nauseam.
Bye, Jer-Bear! He was cannon fodder from the start.
I wonder what happens to those contestants who say 'this means everything to me, this is my whole life, if don't win, I don't know what I'm gonna do............'
I wonder what happens to those contestants who say 'this means everything to me, this is my whole life, if don't win, I don't know what I'm gonna do............'
Jermaine Jones is apparently out on "American Idol."
The 25-year-old vocal instructor from Pine Hill, N.J., tweeted Tuesday night that he would no longer be on the Fox singing contest. He wrote on his official "Idol" Twitter account: "Awww I will no longer b on the show," but the post was later deleted.
A Fox spokeswoman declined to comment on the matter or confirm his tweet.
The so-called "gentle giant" was among the show's viewer-selected top 13 finalists after the judges gave him a last-minute spot among the 11th season's top 13 male semifinalists.
He was among the bottom three vote-getters last week after performing Stevie Wonder's "Knocks Me Off My Feet" but advanced to the group of top 12 singers.
"Idol" contestants in the past have been asked or forced to leave when the show deems that their work or personal history is an issue.
Corey Clark was disqualified for concealing his arrest record during the second season in 2003. Frenchie Davis was also dropped from "Idol" that year because of her previous appearance on an adult website.
During the eighth season in 2009, Joanna Pacitti was shown advancing to the top 36 semifinalists after "Hollywood Week" but was later replaced. Pacitti released an album in 2006 and had ties to 19 Entertainment, which produces "Idol" with FremantleMedia North America.
Chris Golightly was dropped from the top 24 semifinalists in the ninth season in 2010 because he didn't disclose that he had a previous record contract.
In contrast, the singing competition allowed past finalists like the sixth season's Antonella Barba and the seventh season's David Hernandez to stay on after racy photos that appeared to be Barba leaked online. Hernandez was revealed as having once worked as a nightclub stripper.
It was on Good Day NY this morning that he hid a criminal past and had an outstanding warrant or warrants. They didn't have all the details, but suggested we all tune in to find out.
It was on Good Day NY this morning that he hid a criminal past and had an outstanding warrant or warrants. They didn't have all the details, but suggested we all tune in to find out.
why didn't American Idol do a background check? this is beyond stupid, and it's not fair for those that could have had his spot when they brought him back.
Hollie and Joshua were far and away the best of the night, followed by Jessica, Skylar, Erika, Phillip and Elise (in no particular order). I don't know why they panned Jessica's performance, because that was an incredibly difficult song to sing and I thought she was decent.
Why do I always forget Colton until I see the recap at the end of the show?? He's good, but forgettable for some reason.
Worst of the night: Heejun, Shannon and Deandre, although by all rights Deandre shouldn't be there. He just did what the coaches told him to, and it didn't work out. Please send Shannon "Migraine" or Heejun home.
We already knew that Jermaine was disqualified for having a criminal record, and apparently he has 4 outstanding warrants against him; two for falsifying his name to law enforcement, and at least another for fighting. Whatever. A wasted spot even before this info.
IMHO:
Code:
B+ Joshua (1992) "When a Man Loves a Woman"
B+ Colton (1991) "Broken Heart"
B+ Hollie (1993) "The Power of Love"
B+ Jessica (1995) "Turn the Beat Around"
B Shannon (1995) "One Sweet Day"
B Skylar (1994) "Love Sneaking Up On You"
B Philip (1990) "Hard to Handle"
B Deandre (1994) "Endless Love"
C- Erika (1985) "Heaven"
D+ Heejun (1989) "Right Here Waiting"
PHILIP was pretty good, Karaoke+. R: Good song choice; J: Great, loved it; S: Watch melody, keep it up
JESSICA is ready now, and just 16?!! Some pitch issues, but good. S: Don't stray too far from ballads; J: Lagged, lost rhythm, good job; R: Song choice an issue
HEEJUN was too breathy, not very good. R: Pitchy, wrong song, didn't enjoy it; J: Struggling, felt it at the end; S: Breathy, special vocals anyway
ELISE was better, but problematic. S: Love your voice; J: That was right, beautiful; R: Dope, Elise is back
DEANDRE wasn't perfect, but still like him. J: Can sing anything, not right song; S: Not right song, you'll find it; R: Boring/safe at wrong time
SHANNON could've been worse, kinda Zzzz. J: Beautiful job, great; S: Beautiful, good job; R: Mad potential, Yo!
COLTON was great. J: Really really well, look pretty; S: Wrong song, raspberries [?!!]; R: Song didn't matter, dope, consistent
ERIKA was bad karaoke. S: Too busy; J: Left us wanting more; R: Kinda liked it, 8/10, just sing it
[Here they explained Jermaine's absence]
SKYLAR was competent. S: Beautiful; J: Really killed that; R: You rocked it
JOSHUA I loved, but totally believable? R: Phenomenal; J: Best thing I've seen on AI; S: Good came thru your eyes [huh??!]
HOLLIE had good control but a tiny bit Zzzz. J: You and Joshua best for last, beautiful; S: Beautiful, pitch here and there; R: Blew it out of the box
--
Ryan asked the judges who was safest and in trouble:
R: Safest: Joshua; Trouble: Heejun J: Safest: Joshua, Hollie, Philip; Trouble: Let America decide S: Safest: Joshua, Skylar, Philip; Trouble: Let America decide
--
My Bottom 3 are Heejun, Erika, and Elise
As to who goes home? Well, in the past no one went home when there was a scandal, so my guess is... no one goes home, but they get warned. But Heejun should go, having two bad ones in a row.
I was not sorry to see Shannon go home, but I don't know how Heejun escaped the Bottom 3. That comedy routine of his is going to get old very quickly.
And since when is this American Idol - The Jimmy Iovine Show? I'm getting sick of him very quickly. From Deandre's song choice to the "big pause" in both Erika's and Jessica's songs, all bad choices and all Jimmy's ideas.
A- Colton "Piano Man"
B+ Jessica "Everybody Has a Dream"
B Erika "New York State of Mind"
B Elise "Vienna"
B- Hollie "Honesty"
B- DeAndre "Only the Good Die Young"
C+ Philip "Moving Out"
C+ Skylar "Shameless"
C Joshua "She's Got a Way"
D Heejun "My Life"
DeAndre was okay, slightly Zzz/karaoke, with too much vibrato. S: Too happy?: J: Good job, nice mix; R: Nothing special, good not great
Erika was good, and pretty convincing. R: Love vocals, beautiful; J: Beautiful, let loose more; S: Outstanding
Joshua should've been better, awkward in spots, gospel-ly. J: Sing so crazy, connect more; S: Made it come to life [he never heard the song before?! BS!]; R: Made it your own
Skylar was a bit shaky, but I've liked her. R: Pitchy in beginning, then pretty good; J: Fearless; S: Good
Elise I kinda liked for once, a bit screamy. S: Fantastic, brilliant; J: Happy for you, beautiful thing; R: Unbelievable talent, had a moment (during the last run)
Philip's stray from melody was sometimes awkward. J: You are who you are, awesome; S: Really good job; R: One of the best renditions of the song ever, brilliant
Hollie was pretty good. S: Little pitchy, good; J: Beautiful sound, but gotta nail it; R: Gotta let go, better than that
Heejun needs to go already, too accented, let it loose, kinda hokey, mocking karaoke. J: Brought a little fun, vox not exact; S: tongue-tied, take it more serious; R: vocal problems, had good time
Jessica has great vox, but too much? S: Thank you; J: Written for you, congrats; R: Have a moment every time out, perfection
Colton I love, awesome. J: Goosies head to toe; S: Stunning, great; R: Sensitive, touching, stay individual
My B3 this week is Heejun, Joshua (unfortunately), and Skylar (also unfortunately). It's time to say goodbye to the comedian.
I actually watched this last night for the first time this season. Because I am a big Billy Joel fan. Colton did great with Piano Man, Jessica did a great rendition of Everybody Has a Dream, Erika & Elise did very well! I agree with you, Don Marco, that version of Movin' Out was absolute trash. Painful at best to listen to him.
Can't believe Erika's gone. She was SO talented! Deandre and Heejun have sucked two weeks in a row. How is Erika gone and they're still there?? Her "New York State of Mind" was fantastic!
Can't believe Erika's gone. She was SO talented! Deandre and Heejun have sucked two weeks in a row. How is Erika gone and they're still there?? Her "New York State of Mind" was fantastic!
I thought she did very well! Must have been the make over!?!
Can't believe Erika's gone. She was SO talented! Deandre and Heejun have sucked two weeks in a row. How is Erika gone and they're still there?? Her "New York State of Mind" was fantastic!
I thought she did very well! Must have been the make over!?!
i liked her look before the makeover...but, it shouldnt matter since she is way way better than heejun...who is getting annoying as hell.
How the hell is Heejun still in? He is by far the worst singer in the competition. Definitely not better then Erika
Hey His. My theory (for which I've been admonished) is that the votes really don't count. The producers decide who gets cut. They have to keep it balanced. For example, you couldn't have 6 female pop singers left. You would lose a large chunk of viewers and eventually sponsors. It's all carefully orchestrated to maintain viewership. You'll find that my theory has not been held in high regard, but deep down inside they know I'm right.
Tonight's episode was one of the best AI broadcasts I've ever seen. Even Heejun gave a good performance. They all were good, some even very, very good, but the night belonged to Elise. She did Zeppelin, and she blew it out of the water. She was simply incredible.
Elise did Zeppelin's "Whole Lotta Love". ZEPPELIN! She not only can sing, she nailed it. As for her thighs, I'm not sure if we're thinking of the same person. Here's a link to last night's performances: http://www.americanidol.com/videos/season_11/performances/
The Boss is back! As I stated before, I have not watched a lot of this season but I would be surprised if Jessica does not take this competition altogether. She is very talented and a pure natural singer. Welcome back, J Geoff.
This week was VERY difficult to grade as everyone did pretty well. It's all nit-picky.
Code:
B+ Colton Lifehouse, "Everything"
B DeAndre Eric Benet, "Sometimes I Cry"
B Hollie C. Underwood, "Jesus Take the Wheel"
B Elise Led Zeppelin, "Whole Lotta Love"
B Skylar M. Lambert, "Gunpowder and Lead"
B Joshua M. Carey, "Without You"
B- Jessica Beyonce, "Sweet Dreams"
C+ Phillip Jonny Lang, "Still Raining"
C- Heejun D. Hathaway, "A Song for You"
COLTON is always good, Bonjoviesque here. S: Dream come true, star quality; J: Moved; R: Believable
SKYLAR was good as usual, but almost seemed to get lost? J: Unbridled; S: Over the top, beautiful; R: Good lookin' out
TRIO #1: Colton, Elise, Phillip perform a Fleetwood Mac medley (A-)
HEEJUN finally sang without joking around. But not well enough. S: You did it, great; J: Beautiful tone, vibrato; R: Welcome back
HOLLIE showed some potential with this song. R: Really good job, not perfect; J: One of your best; S: Just okay for me, difficult song
DEANDRE I still like, but way too much falsetto. S: 100% passion; J: Vote for DeAndre, crazy; R: Beautiful, who you are, DeAndre's back!
JESSICA wasn't her best. J: Gorgeous, beautiful; S: A star, delicious; R: Innate talent, one of best in years, she wants it
TRIO #2: DeAndre, Heejun, Joshua perform a Michael Jackson medley (B)
PHILLIP was okay, a little Zzz, low level of difficulty. J: We feel the music, great, amazing; S: In your body and soul; R: Love individuality
JOSHUA sang a big song, too much/not enough? Not sure. R: She'd be proud, flawless, emotional, brilliant; S: Beautiful; J: A phenom, angel from heaven
TRIO #3: Hollie, Skylar, Jessica perform a Madonna medley (C)
ELISE was good, but appropriate? Zep are her idols? S: Made Robert Plant proud; J: Made me get up on my feet; R: Amazing job, congrats
5 standing ovations by judges seems to be a one-night record.
Results
Ford Music Video "I Wanna Rock"
Remaining Idols move into Hollywood Hills mansion (seemed pretty ugly from the outside)
You and I definitely disagree on Elise's performance. That song is one of the most difficult to sing, but she nailed it. I thought they were all good, some even gave their best performance to date, but she was head and shoulders above everyone else.
Yeah, we know it wasn't easy ranking this week. She did do it well -- great, but not perfect -- and it's a song she's been singing for years. That didn't gain her any points from me, picking a song she's been doing forever and not challenging herself. She didn't make it hers, either. And rock songs (despite the vocal range needed for some like this one) are probably the easiest of all genres. That's why Phillip didn't impress me. Elise did very well, but I didn't feel "a moment" in there at all. :shrug:
Oh yeah... anyone gonna shop at Kohl's this month for the new "Authentic Icon" apparel?
Elise did Zeppelin's "Whole Lotta Love". ZEPPELIN! She not only can sing, she nailed it. As for her thighs, I'm not sure if we're thinking of the same person. Here's a link to last night's performances: http://www.americanidol.com/videos/season_11/performances/
Yeah, Elise is the one with Fergie thighs. I saw her in an earlier show. The devil made me look.
w/ Gwen Stefani & Tony Kanal from No Doubt Solos + Boy/Girl duets
Code:
A- Colton "Time After Time"
B Skylar "Wind Beneath My Wings"
B DeAndre "I Like It"
B Joshua "If You Don't Know Me By Now"
B- Jessica "How Will I Know"
B- Phillip "That's All"
C- Hollie "What a Feeling"
C- Elise "I Wanna Know What Love Is"
DEANDRE sang well with less falsetto, but kinda Zzz. J: 'I Like It' a lot, great job; S: Totally captivating, exceptional; R: Perfect, amazing
ELISE started rough, kinda boring. S: Not right song, but love voice; J: Not totally right, but great; R: Pitchy whole song
DUET #1 : Colton & Skylar, "Islands in the Stream" (B+)
PHILLIP was kinda just okay, Level of Difficulty still low. S: Love individuality; J: Brought it home at end; R: Loved it, great
DUET #2 : Hollie & DeAndre, "I'm So Excited" (B+)
JOSHUA is still great, but still too much church, a bit Zzz. J: Lordy Lordy Lordy, spectacular; S: Over the top, perfect; R: So in your zone, Joshua's gotta have it!
JESSICA was good, but something's missing. Bad note? J: Crazy, really good; S: Fantastic; R: Amazing job, maturity, gotta have it too!
I really thought that DeAndre stepped up his game the last few weeks, so I'm sorry to see him go. However, I do think he was the weakest of the remaining contestants.
Another decent week... and again, duets/trio. Why do they need to push this to 2 hours still?
Code:
B+ Colton "Love the Way You Lie"
B+ Jessica "Stuttering"
B Joshua "Runaway Baby"
B Phillip "Give a Little More"
B Skylar "Didn't You Know How Much I Loved You"
C+ Hollie "Perfect"
C Elise "You and I"
SKYLAR was okay, kinda Zzz somehow, little pitchy. R: What you should do, felt you; J: Perfect pitch; S: The crows may crow, but the hens deliver the goods
COLTON has an awesome voice (we know), Rufus-esque, beautiful. J: Real artist, good job; S: Rare talent; R: Subtle, stellar
DUET #1 : Elise & Phillip, "Somebody I Used to Know" (C-) Karaoke
JESSICA was better than the song, but didn't seem to connect. R: Set the bar really high, superb, amazing; J: Take us on the ride; R: I forget where I am
JOSHUA, it was nice to not be "in church" all the time. S: Sell us all like a work of art; J: It's about being a performer; R: Unbelievable, he wants it!
DUET #2 : Colton & Skylar, "Don't You Wanna Stay" (C) Colton is now Skylar's backup singer?!
HOLLIE was okay, a bit Zzz, not "Perfect". J: Feel you fighting, sang beautifully; S: Not perfect tonight for me; R: Not perfect, but better than last week
PHILLIP showed me one of his best. S: Love the way you've evolved; J: A little underwhelming; R: No "wow" moment
I was a big Elise fan in the beginning, but she's been coasting on that Zeppelin performance for a few weeks now. I'm still all about Joshua, though. I think his Bruno Mars was very good, especially since it was so out of his comfort zone.
Was never a fan of Elise, but then the Zep thing, and okay. But shit, she's sung that song for a decade with her band, of course it's gonna be good. Give her something else, and she falls flat.
Joshua was high on my list tonight simply because he DIDN'T "take me to church"... but he's not gonna win.
Hollie, Jessica... Hollie to stage right, Jess to stage left
Season 10's James Durbin sings thru an effects mic for "Higher Than Heaven" (still B, but the effect didn't have to last the ENTIRE song, did it??)
Phillip, Elise... Phillip stage right, Elise stage left
A very slimmed-down Jennifer Hudson & Ne-Yo perform "Think Like a Man" (B-)
Colton, Joshua... Joshua stage left, Colton stage right
Skylar left alone... is then safe
B3 = Joshua, Elise, Joshua (to shocks)
Joshua is safe
B2 = Elise, Jessica...
Elise is safe (what?!!)
Jessica starts to sing for her life, but is interrupted by the judges on stage. R: "Without any doubt, one of the best singers in America, ever; are you kidding me?!"
Jessica uses up the Judges' Save, and wow, of course!!
I figure that it must be a case that people don't bother to vote for her because they thing she is going to be safe anyway. Hope that changes next week.
Top 7 Redux - Songs from the '00s + Classic Soul w/ no guest mentor
Since everyone performed twice, and to save time and my sanity, I ranked them 1-7 for each category so have two lists:
Code:
Songs from the 2000's
B+ Joshua "I Believe"
B+ Phillip "You Got it Bad"
B Jessica "Falling"
B Hollie "Rolling in the Deep"
B- Colton "Bad Romance"
B- Skylar "Born This Way"
C Elise "No One"
HOLLIE was proficient, but a bit Zzz. S: Finally came out of your shell, perfect; J: Felt every word; R: Close to perfect, felt you
COLTON wasn't at his best. R: So in the zone, well done; Exciting performance; S: Keep doing what you're doing
ELISE was kinda screechy. J: First goosies of the night; S: Delish; R: Sang great, lesson in restraint
PHILLIP was interesting, I liked it. S: Fool us all the way, beautiful, great; J: Yes, yes, so sexy; R: True artist, original, himself
JESSICA did a good job. S: Passion released; J: Crazy the way you play with songs; R: Brilliant, talent is other-worldly
SKYLAR was okay, but somehow a bit Zzz. J: Love that version, perfect for you; S: So good; R: Beyond ready
JOSHUA was great, top of the night tonight. R: Love you, love your voice; J: You gave us all of you; S: You could sing the phone book
Code:
Soul Classics
B+ Colton "September"
B Joshua "A Change is Gonna Come"
B Phillip "Midnight Hour"
B- Jessica "Try a Little Tenderness"
B- Skylar "Heard it Through the Grapevine"
B- Elise "Let's Get It On"
C Hollie "Son of a Preacher Man"
HOLLIE was kinda meh, karaoke. R: Worked it out; J: Showing a new composure; S: Can push it even more
COLTON's performance could be a single today. S: Voice is better than that song; J: Sounded really good, but song choice; R: Not exciting
ELISE has good tone, but too screamy. J: Like to see more emotion, connection; S: Showed versatility, find the song; R: Song choice not right for voice, oversung
PHILLIP was good, but low level of difficulty again. R: That's what it's about, who your are; J: From the soul; S: Brilliantly awkward
JESSICA was technically good, but a bit screamy. S: Steppin' out; J: Alter ego came out, need more than voice; R: Connect with emotion of the lyric
SKYLAR, why does everything have to be countrified? R: Do what you do, brilliant; J: Like your spunkiness; S: You are just something else
JOSHUA does his thing again. S: Stretched voice to its limits; J: Just love you; R: Perfect for you, stellar
Don't get me wrong, I like Skylar, but this week that's how I saw it. And Phillip surprised me, outranking my favorite (Colton). And Joshua just brought it, and always sounds good.
I am so sick of the judges throwing Hollie under the bus. Why do they hate her so much? I thought she was incredible, especially "The Climb". Miley Cyrus DREAMS of singing it that well.
Judges, stop with the stupid tongue baths for PeePee. That 2nd performance was pure karaoke.
Jessica, please stop yelling at me. Even Pickler's performance of Bohemian Rhapsody was more entertaining.
Elise, Joshua and Skylar all gave very good performances. I love Joshua, but Mr. Babe doesn't. I thought he stayed away from his gospel-type of performance and was quite entertaining.
Hmm, I think I kinda disagree w/ a lot of Babe's statements...
Top 6 - Music of Queen + Singers' Choice
First, the Top 6 do a Queen medley with Brian May & Roger Taylor (Eh. My eye was always on the Queen guys.)
Code:
Queen Songs
B+ Joshua "Crazy Little Thing Called Love"
B Jessica "Bohemian Rhapsody"
B Phillip "Fat Bottomed Girls"
B Elise "I Want It All"
B Skylar "The Show Must Go On"
C+ Hollie "Save Me"
JESSICA was proficient, but, seemed a bit odd. S: Rock not your forte, but good; J: Beautiful vocal, not enough rock; R: Very nice, loved it
SKYLAR wasn't country for once, a nice change, but flat in spots. S: Over the top, fabulous; J: Goosies, powerful; R: Incredible, she's gotta have it, phenomenal
JOSHUA was good as always, but not a very difficult song. R: Unbelievable, so ready; J: My favorite part of the show; S: Classic style, loved it
ELISE was okay, screechy, I'm tired of her. S: Found your stride, great; J: In your element, came together; R: One of your best, brilliant
PHILLIP was good, but didn't do anything with it; easy song. S: Great, loved it; J: You give us different flavors; R: Liked it, didn't love it, good
HOLLIE had some rough spots, was a little theatrical. S: Really good job; J: Enjoy it more, off a bit, stop thinking; R: Good performance, take more chances
Code:
Singers' Choice
A- Jessica "Dance With My Father"
B+ Joshua "Ready for Love"
B Hollie "The Climb"
B Elise "Bold as Love"
B Phillip "The Stone"
B- Skylar "Tattos of This Town"
JESSICA was great. J: Best I've ever heard that song sung; S: Pleasure watching; R: You are truly amazing, congrats
SKYLAR had a rough start with this one. R: Gi-normous fan, fearless, great; J: Took us there again, slayed it; S: You can do no wrong
JOSHUA was good as usual, laid back for once. R: Speechless, unbelievable, crazy good; J: Transcendent; S: I smell the finish line
ELISE wasn't bad, good vocals. S: Love the Janis Joplin in you, but not the song; J: Slayed so hard, one of the best singers; R: Not right song for me at this point
PHILLIP was a bit creepy here, with a Dave Matthews tune. S: Off the wall, found your niche; J: Too obscure/artsy; R: Showed your true colors, artist
HOLLIE was pretty good repeating her audition song, but she's no Miley. R: The Hollie we love, Hollie's back; J: Perfect; S: So beautiful
--
Rankings are REALLY close with the first, middle, and last couple. But my final rankings are:
That said, I don't think Hollie was thrown under the bus by the judges; PP's second song wasn't that great, but overall I thought he was better than I typically think he is; Jessica was almost my #1 of the week, it was that close; Mr Babe is crazy not loving Joshua (you can tell him that lol), but Skylar (one of my favorites all along) was my bottom choice this week. And I dislike Elise, and she did pretty well this week.
B3 should be Skylar, Hollie, Elise... but Skylar (despite my ranking this week) should not go home. Elise should. As I said, I'm tired of seeing her. Colton should've sung this week, not Elise!!
The whole B3 thing at this stage is a bit ridiculous, isn't it?? I mean, half of them are going to be B3, right? Shouldn't they just go to a B2 at this point??
I would like to see a final three of Hollie, Skylar and Joshua. I think they're all so talented, and they all have such different styles. It would at least be interesting, not like last year's country snoozefest.
Geoff, I have spoken to Mr. Babe about his Joshua dislike. It's just not his thing, but I disagree completely. I love Joshua and would love to see him as the winner.
Jessica lacks something. Not sure what it is, but yes, I like Hollie better. It should be an hour at this point. It's a little silly, the way they stretch it out. Filler much??
Top 5 - The '60s & British Pop Hits w/ Little Steven
This week was a bit of a snooze fest, but everyone did pretty well...
Code:
The '60s
B Joshua "Ain't Too Proud to Beg"
B Hollie "River Deep, Mountain High"
B Skylar "Fortunate Son"
B Phillip "The Letter"
B- Jessica "Proud Mary"
HOLLIE was pretty good, but low notes seemed off to me. S: Used your Blues, thank you Lord; J: Could really feel you; R: Loved it, very nice
PHILLIP's rendition was interesting, groovy, but same ol'. R: Made it new for me, loved it; J: Make things your own; S: Missed the melody, but get away with it
SKULAR was good, but a little screamy. J: Attack every song, fearless; S: Fabulous, love it; R: Born to be on stage
JOSHUA & PHILLIP perform "You've Lost That Lovin' Feeling" (C-)
JESSICA had good vox, but looked awkward in Tina Turner mode. J: Loved seeing you move, good job; S: That's it; R: Barely okay for me
JOSHUA was good as usual, but a bit Zzzz. S: Such a talent, great; S: So sickening; R: Can bring R&B back
Code:
Brit Pop Hits
B+ Skylar "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me"
B Jessica "You Are So Beautiful"
B Joshua "To Love Somebody"
B Hollie "Bleeding Love"
C+ Phillip "Time of the Season"
HOLLIE was good, but kinda Zzzz. S: Loved it, nailed it; J: Beautiful, intimate, amazing; R: Unbelievable
PHILLIP kept the melody for once, but falsetto was bad, snoozer. R: Less energy, vibe, nice; G: Mellow, good; S: Sang it well
JESSICA, SKYLAR & HOLLIE perform "Your Love Keeps Lifting Me Higher" (B)
SKYLAR had great pitch, best of the night. R: Flawless, I believe you; J: You just might [win]; S: Did it so well, congrats
JESSICA had great vox as well, but another snooze fest. S: You're gonna be #1; J: So beautiful, great job; R: Talent unbelievable, so good
JOSHUA started out nice and subdued, then ended maniacally as usual. R: Wow, born to do that, of of best ever on the show; J: One of best in 50 years!; S: Real artist
Cable was out all day yesterday, until about 4 this morning. I missed the show, and my DVR was obviously not working. I'm going to try to catch it On Demand. Sounds like I missed a good one!
Skylar, Jessica... Jessica safe, Skylar (My #1 pick of the week) B2
Cold Play performs again, "Every Teardrop is a Waterfall"
B2 = Hollie, Skylar
R: "Sad every Thursday; Best Top 5 we ever had" J: "Hard to lose anybody; Top 3 deserve to be there" S: "Top 5 has never been better than this"
After nearly 60 million votes, going home is...
Skylar! (WTF?!!!)
Taking it graciously, Skylar sings "Gunpowder & Lead"
I'm sorry, but there's something wrong here. I've liked her from the beginning (second to Colton, who's also gone). Did they not want another country artist (despite their country winners doing better than any of the others)?? ARGH!!!
Hollie is forgettable; Jessica is good, but too much of a diva; Phillip is not an American Idol; So Joshua, though a bit over-the-top, should win this at this point.
Sorry, Hollie. Here comes the bus, and it's time for the judges to throw you under. I was shocked that they praised Hollie's version of "Faithfully" because she hit some pretty sour notes in the beginning, although she did pull it together for a phenomenal end. The second song was not bad, just not very good. And I'm not sure it's enough to save her.
Jessica is technically a good singer, but she has no soul. She doesn't connect emotionally at all. And PeePee is boring and sounds the same on every song. Plus, I'm sick of his constipated faces.
Joshua is good, although he can be a bit screechy. However, the emotion he brings to every performance is wonderful.
I thought Joshua was gonna win the week, and I agree with you about Jessica, but...
Top 4 - California Dreamin' & Personal Inspirations
Code:
California Dreamin'
B Jessica "Steal Away"
B Phillip "Have You Ever Seen the Rain"
B- Joshua "You Raise Me Up"
C- Hollie "Faithfully"
PHILLIP was good, but yet another easy song. S: Road of success is always under construction; J: Perfect vocal quality for this song; R: Started a little rough, then right on
HOLLIE was lackluster and didn't sound like Idol material here; judges are way off! R: Now peaking at right time; J: Very beautiful; S: Watched you blossom
JOSHUA didn't blow me away here, but I think he should win this year. J: Really really great; S: Sang your little tush off; R: Amazing artist
JESSICA is kinda young for this song, but had good vox. J: One of the best singers [anywhere] today; S: Nailed that; R: Can sing the phonebook, amazing
PHILLIP & JOSHUA perform "This Love" (B+) HOLLIE & JESSICA perform "Eternal Flame" (D) TOP 4 perform "Waiting For a Girl Like You" (B)
Code:
Songs they wish they'd written
A Jessica "And I'm Telling You"
A- Joshua "It's a Man's Man's Man's World"
B+ Phillip "Volcano"
B- Hollie "I Can't Make You Love Me"
PHILLIP's song was perfect for him. S: I heard the musician that time, beautiful; J: One of the most beautiful moments on the show ever; R: What it's all about, so great
HOLLIE did much better this time, but not perfect. Judges wrong again! S: Fell a little short; J: Too much emotion, shaky; R: No moments, wrong song choice
JOSHUA did his thing and slayed it. S: I can go home right now; J: Sickening, went to church, saw the Lord; R: One of best performances in history of ANY show
JESSICA, the future diva, got my first A of the year. But I agree she needs more experience and is a bit of a bitch. S: Another winning performance, over-the-top; J: Real race to the finish, nothing to say, real moment; R: In it to really win it, slayed it
Hollie needs to go; she hasn't been performing at the Top 3 level, tho someday she might. I know some people don't like Jessica as a person, but that doesn't mean she can't sing her ass off. She just needs some life experience. I like Phillip, but don't see him as an Idol (I've said that before and was wrong). I think the finale should be Joshua & Jessica, and I prefer Joshua to win at this point.
I haven't seen much of the AI this year, but I think Hollie could be the one who could be the star of the group. She's got a great voice and those twinkly blue eyes are kind of like Carrie Underwood. Another non-winner with a career like - Jennifer Hudson, Daughtry, Clay Aiken, even Pickler. And don't forget those winners with no/or short career; Lee Dweyze, Kris Allen, the Soul Patrol guy ...??
Judges' Choice
B Phillip "Beggin'"
B Joshua "I'd Rather Be Blind"
C Jessica "My All"
JOSHUA was okay, kinda boring of a song. S: Another Joshua moment; J: Always bring down the house; R: Such a classic stylist
JESSICA's performance was like a high school talent show. R: Absolutely beautiful, excellent; J: Did it beautifully; S: You be the last one standing here
PHILLIP... maybe it's just me tonight, kinda bored again. S: Can you believe this guy, can be New Age 'Boss'; J: Great; R: A Phillip Phillips concert, in the zone
Code:
Contestants' Choice
B Joshua "Imagine"
B Phillip "Disease"
B- Jessica "I Don't Wanna Miss A Thing"
JOSHUA was good, didn't 'go to church' for once. S: You are so fine; J: Digging deep makes you very special; R: People feel what you do, brilliant
JESSICA was okay, changed melody too much, not overdone for once. S: Took a great song and made it greater; J: Amazing; R: Delivered at the end
PHILLIP was okay, but another snoozer. J: Not a wow perfect, good; S: Who you are; R: Didn't like it either, just okay
Code:
Jimmy's Choice
B+ Jessica "I'll Be There"
B Joshua "No More Drama"
B Phillip "We Got Tonight"
JOSHUA sang well, back to church. R: You have laid everything on the stage; J: Gets crazy, of this this world; S: Over the top
JESSICA was almost perfect, I love this song. S: Nailed it; J: Killed it, crazy; R: Didn't love it, needed a moment-moment
PHILLIP was given a boring-ass song, wasn't as good as other two. R: Your best performance ever, he's ready; J: Really sweet; S: No other word but beautiful
----
Each won a round, IMHO. Lackluster week, but overall:
I know they wanted a female Idol, but damn, Jessica just didn't bring it, except on the last song. The first was downright bad, especially her lower register. She just seemed tired.
PeePee was as boring as he has been all season. I don't get why the judges love this guy. He's just OK.
Joshua seemed to be the only contestant actually trying last night.
My view is that while the judges seem to praise them for their version of the songs, I hate it when I hear iterpretations of Let It Be, or Imagine. Joshua can really sing, but I don't like his version of Imagine. I did like Jessica's last song - I was in a different room and it sounded like MJ himself. I could picture Phil Phillips (does it surprise you that he and his father have that name and are from the south?) singing in the lounge at a hotel in Ocean City, MD.
Top 3 perform "Gotta Get You Into My Life" (B-) Ford Music Video, "Cinema" [where was Phillip??] Joshua recap Top 3 meet Ester Dean in studio for new Ice Age movie soundtrack Lisa Marie Presley performs "You Ain't Seen Nothin' Yet" Jessica recap Season 8's Adam Lambert performs "Never Close Our Eyes" Phillip recap
Jessica, Joshua, Phillip...
R: "All have careers ahead of you" J: "Losing anyone is a heartbreak" S: "You have the courage to have a dream; if you don't have a dream, there's no way to make one come true"
After nearly 90 million votes...
Jessica is safe. [Oh, no]
Also in the finale is...
Phillip!
WTF?!!
I pegged Joshua as the winner, but he goes home, singing "This Is A Man's World"
W T F ?!?! I was hoping for a Joshua/Colton finale... now I lost both.
As I've said before, Jessica has talent, and will be a big star. She's got a great voice, but she's TOO YOUNG RIGHT NOW. At 16, the world is ahead of her. As for Phillip, I like him. Don't love, but like, him. But I don't see him as an Idol winner (same with Kris Allen, who won). Joshua deserved this if Colton didn't.
Needless to say, I was extremely disappointed with the results. As you said, though, there have been some strange results over the seasons. I guess we should expect this from a show that crowned Kris over Adam, and sent Beatboxing Blair to the finale over Melinda Doolittle (remember her?).
I guess we should expect this from a show that crowned Kris over Adam, and sent Beatboxing Blair to the finale over Melinda Doolittle (remember her?).
Hey, I liked Blake! But you're right. Not to mention Clay (who seems to be poised to win Celebrity Apprentice on Sunday -- I haven't been watching; too much going on on Sunday nights. Tho you can watch online)
I don't think my personal favorite has ever actually won. The closest was the Battle of the Davids. I liked them both, and thought/hoped Archie would take it, but I was happy with Cook as well. I swear, I'm always referring to those two when I'm grading anyone since.
I thought last year's finale took the prize for Most Boring, but this year's has it beat. I think back to all the talent that they had, this year seemed the most promising Top 12, and then zzzzzzz. What happened??
And since when did they give the finalists two separate songs to sing? I thought they sang the same song?
My interest in the Idol has faded over the years, but I think by this time we've just seen too much of the finalists. Enough already! ...and the judges and Seacrest. Remember, this started in January.
They're apparently talking to Mariah Carey, which I guess wouldn't be too bad. I don't have a problem with Adam, but I can't watch Charlie Sheen on Idol!
!
I thought she did very well! Must have been the make over!?!
