I'm still tittering from shock at tonight's show. I was one-for-four! I'm Idolmama! I'm supposed to do better than that! But worse, I think the wrong people went home! But wait, THIS is American Idol....so the rules aren't clear.
My only correct choice was Jason Yeager. He was more emo than I thought he would be, given that every major news outlet from Bangor to Bel Air predicted his ouster (guess he is paying attention to the "don't read anything" edict to the Idol contenders issued by Fox/19/whatever it is). He doesn't have a bad voice, 'tis true, but my only advice to him would be, head straight to the nearest stylist! That Pepe Le Pew streak just didn't help you connect.
Now, I'll be honest....I would have bet my 2001 minivan that Amanda was going home, but when she was standing next to Alexandrea, I was a little nervous, but still confident in my prediction....and the wrong gal went home. Poor David A.....his upset was due to the fact that he and Alex go waaaaay back (to when they were twelve, that is) when they competed against each other on Star Search. I really, really think Alexandrea is very talented, and should not have been eliminated. Her exit performance showed that.
Note on exit performances: I've always admired those who can hold their head up and not cry (not that there is anything wrong with crying, and it's certainly what I would do, BUT...) that exit performance, no matter when it comes for you in the competition, is essentially a job interview for your next gig....and so best to do your best, looking forward instead of backward....easier said than done for some than for others like...
...Alaina Whittaker. I'll be honest with you, I am truly crushed. I was looking forward to seeing and hearing Alaina for at least the next couple of weeks if not longer. I did agree with Simon that she was a dark horse, in that people might not have noticed her since she was young and had long blond hair like a few of the other contestants this season and maybe got lost because of that. But when I listened to her, I heard something different, just a little more mature, little more together for lack of a better word....and I will really miss her in this competition. Best to you my dear! And we took that exit performance and used it as a Teaching Moment in my house (thank you, Alaina) to teach the kids, even when you just feel like you absolutely can't do something....chances are, you can. Her exit performance was beautiful.
Not that you thought that was the end of the sadness, of the shock.....THIS is American Idol.....but no, the Boy Bander Robbie Carrico went home! I thought he would at least have the girlie vote (even though he did nothing for me, and at last check, I was a girl). It's just a very surprising ouster given that he was a professional in this business as a teen.....well, just goes to show that all that hype about past professional experience among this year's Top 24 didn't amount to a Hill O 'Beans as they say down South.
Final words: for those of you who missed "Idol Gives Back" last season, don't miss it this year. It was an amazing night of performances, funnies, footage from communities in Africa and the U. S. who will benefit from monies raised...and this year's show looks to be as good, if not better. Set your TiVo for a great night on Idol.
It's getting tougher....we're down to 16......who deserves to make the final 12?
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Top Ten Ladies
As I sit down to write this recap, I feel a bit like the ladies seem to have felt: scattered, unfocused, and scrambling for a theme, a vision, an identity for tonight.... a shtick as it were.
I had high hopes for the Top 10 Ladies tonight, what with 70's night and all....and sadly, I was a bit disappointed. There were no high points, no breakouts, no star search moments for me. The theme tonight wasn't "70's" after all, but seemed to be "Poor Song Choice" when you replay the judge's comments, and a couple of the gals, while talented singers, are clearly struggling in this competition which involves more than just singing.
The only contestant who seemed to get it right (Good Singer, Right Song) was Nanny Brooke, who covered Carly Simon's "You're So Vain" while accompanying herself on the guitar. I still find her to be a thin performer and singer (and not just in the literal sense) and thought she was overpraised, but relatively speaking, she done good. I loved, again, how she thanked the band....only a musician has the awareness of what it takes to back someone up like Ricky Minor does week after week (I'm going to devote a blog to him soon, he's quite a cool cat)...
Most of the rest fell into the (Good Singer, Wrong Song) category tonight. For starters, Carly was out of breath, and the whole performance just didn't fall together for me. I agree with Simon, I've not connected with this gal, and since I'm the minivan driving mom of three, I'm betting lots of America hasn't either! I also question someones favorite song if it's Heart....just sayin'......I think her performance was kind of boring, and sadly, so was she.
Syesha is clearly a good singer and decent performer, but I'm not a fan yet. Call me crazy, but I need a little humility from my superstars, not footage of the commercial they shot on the beach and them getting professional hair and make up. She does have a beautiful voice, acting ability and star power, but so did Tamyra Gray, and where did that get her?
Ramiele was adorable and is a better singer than tonight showcased. Likewise, Kristy looked fabulous but just didn't win me over on Linda Ronstadt's classic "You're No Good". To Kristy's credit, she didn't do those freaky eye things that she did last week (we'll chalk those up to the flu) and I have to agree that if she sticks around another week, I'm ready for the country girl to step up.
Also in the Good Singer, Wrong Song category tonight were Alaina, Alexandrea, Kady and Asia'h. I actually liked the Grease cover from Alaina and think she is very good....when she was talking about her food not touching, my kindergartner turned and said to me, "See, Mom, even big kids do that!" which made the evening worthwhile! It really was nothing new, but it was nicely done. Alexandrea chose Chicago's "If You Leave Me Now" which may be prophetic, and I thought it was pretty good, but she looked so downtrodden afterward that even my own shoulders sunk. Her outfit was cute and spunky and youthful, and didn't match the song at all. Simon acknowledged that she is "struggling" and that didn't help. Kady is perhaps a better opera than pop singer. I think she could capitalize on Paul Potts' success and drop out of AI7 and immediately sign with Simon. Finally, one of my favorites closed the show, Asia'h, and clearly she has been sick. Perhaps,too, a bit of overconfidence led to her choice of song ("All By Myself") and she did struggle...but no matter what Simon says, she is not in danger this week, that's why they gave her the pimp spot of the night :)
The lone singer in tonight's (Bad Singer, Wrong Song) category was Amanda. I was worried about her all week after her showing in last week's bottom two, and thought it unjust. I take that back: tonight did her no favors. First of all, that freaky hairstyle and outfit did nothing for the voting sector in middle America. It was, as my husband called it, the Bride of Frankenstein look and it won't win votes. But more importantly, her voice just didn't sound good. She struggled to make the notes, was out of breath for most of the song, and just worked at it a little too much.
Predictions? Amanda for sure, and other than her, I'd have to guess that either Kady, Kristy or Alexandrea have reached the end of their Idol road...stay tuned...
I had high hopes for the Top 10 Ladies tonight, what with 70's night and all....and sadly, I was a bit disappointed. There were no high points, no breakouts, no star search moments for me. The theme tonight wasn't "70's" after all, but seemed to be "Poor Song Choice" when you replay the judge's comments, and a couple of the gals, while talented singers, are clearly struggling in this competition which involves more than just singing.
The only contestant who seemed to get it right (Good Singer, Right Song) was Nanny Brooke, who covered Carly Simon's "You're So Vain" while accompanying herself on the guitar. I still find her to be a thin performer and singer (and not just in the literal sense) and thought she was overpraised, but relatively speaking, she done good. I loved, again, how she thanked the band....only a musician has the awareness of what it takes to back someone up like Ricky Minor does week after week (I'm going to devote a blog to him soon, he's quite a cool cat)...
Most of the rest fell into the (Good Singer, Wrong Song) category tonight. For starters, Carly was out of breath, and the whole performance just didn't fall together for me. I agree with Simon, I've not connected with this gal, and since I'm the minivan driving mom of three, I'm betting lots of America hasn't either! I also question someones favorite song if it's Heart....just sayin'......I think her performance was kind of boring, and sadly, so was she.
Syesha is clearly a good singer and decent performer, but I'm not a fan yet. Call me crazy, but I need a little humility from my superstars, not footage of the commercial they shot on the beach and them getting professional hair and make up. She does have a beautiful voice, acting ability and star power, but so did Tamyra Gray, and where did that get her?
Ramiele was adorable and is a better singer than tonight showcased. Likewise, Kristy looked fabulous but just didn't win me over on Linda Ronstadt's classic "You're No Good". To Kristy's credit, she didn't do those freaky eye things that she did last week (we'll chalk those up to the flu) and I have to agree that if she sticks around another week, I'm ready for the country girl to step up.
Also in the Good Singer, Wrong Song category tonight were Alaina, Alexandrea, Kady and Asia'h. I actually liked the Grease cover from Alaina and think she is very good....when she was talking about her food not touching, my kindergartner turned and said to me, "See, Mom, even big kids do that!" which made the evening worthwhile! It really was nothing new, but it was nicely done. Alexandrea chose Chicago's "If You Leave Me Now" which may be prophetic, and I thought it was pretty good, but she looked so downtrodden afterward that even my own shoulders sunk. Her outfit was cute and spunky and youthful, and didn't match the song at all. Simon acknowledged that she is "struggling" and that didn't help. Kady is perhaps a better opera than pop singer. I think she could capitalize on Paul Potts' success and drop out of AI7 and immediately sign with Simon. Finally, one of my favorites closed the show, Asia'h, and clearly she has been sick. Perhaps,too, a bit of overconfidence led to her choice of song ("All By Myself") and she did struggle...but no matter what Simon says, she is not in danger this week, that's why they gave her the pimp spot of the night :)
The lone singer in tonight's (Bad Singer, Wrong Song) category was Amanda. I was worried about her all week after her showing in last week's bottom two, and thought it unjust. I take that back: tonight did her no favors. First of all, that freaky hairstyle and outfit did nothing for the voting sector in middle America. It was, as my husband called it, the Bride of Frankenstein look and it won't win votes. But more importantly, her voice just didn't sound good. She struggled to make the notes, was out of breath for most of the song, and just worked at it a little too much.
Predictions? Amanda for sure, and other than her, I'd have to guess that either Kady, Kristy or Alexandrea have reached the end of their Idol road...stay tuned...
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Top Ten Men
I LOVE the 70's....does this mean we can expect the 80's next week? Idolmama trembles with anticipation...anyway, back to tonight. Overall, a very strong showing by the guys, I found something to enjoy about each performance and they are all singing to win.
To sum up the evening: my hubby walked in late, catching only the evening's final performance (but what a one to catch!). Without time to watch the entire broadcast, I replayed for him only two performances. First one was Jason Castro. While the judges disliked his semi-acoustic rendition of Andy Gibb's "I Just Want To Be Your Everything" and Simon called it "shmaltsy" at least twice (whatever that means), I absolutely loved it. First of all, love the song, love his almost folksy, stripped-down take on it....agree with Paula that the switch-up from acoustic to band to acoustic was fresh, and instead of being "weak" (said Simon), I call it "Idoltastic!"
Second replay performance was from Chikezie, who gets this week's Most Improved Idol Award. Night and day from last week. This week we saw energy, charisma, soul...what a difference a week makes! Could be, too, that I am still positively transferring energy from the awesome Elliot Yamin who brilliantly delivered this song in season 5....but I suddenly like Chikezie again, and I think his performance will find him safe this week.
Other worthy performances, although not worthy enough to delay the hubby's putting the kids to bed (that's what TiVo is for), were, in no particular order, The Three Davids! No doubt, David Archuleta's fan base is growing. I love the kid, and even though it was a little risky of a song (Wikipedia: "Imagine" is widely considered to be one of the greatest songs of all time), Simon had to admit that it worked. Not to speak too soon, but I can honestly see this kid winning the whole thing. Ladies, take note!
David Hernandez came alive tonight and is a vocal force to be reckoned with. Last week he was flat and somewhat dull, and we saw no hint of the brilliant vocals we saw in Hollywood....well, here they were! His version of Motown's "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone" delivered the personality and expression from him that we had been missing....plus I loved that he gave a post-performance nod to the band (always courteous) and that he got a Standing O from Paula and others. He deserved it, and he needed it to stay alive and have hopes of cracking the Top 12.
Finally, while I'm not a huge fan, David Cook had a great performance tonight. I don't know why it's a battle, but Randy pronounced him the true "rocker" of this year's men....so, what, David Cook went back and pierced his pinky toe and ate raw meat for dinner? I don't know what to make of that (and neither does Robbie Carrico). In any event, Cook's "All Right Now" was kind of Daughtry-esque and I liked the guitar.
His name isn't David, but Michael Johns was solidly in the middle tonight. His fan base will easily carry him through another week (and his tennis revelation will garner at least 100 votes from SuzE!) but he's got to realize that each week is a new competition, and if he's not careful, he will be singing Fleetwood Mac's "Go Your Own Way" for real. In the same category, Robbie Carrico showed us that, in fact, he does have hair under that doo-rag....but he didn't impress. I see that he graduated from the Bo Bice School of Mic Stand Holding, but he's got to step it up to stay in it.
In the "you betta cross your fingers" group for me tonight were Danny Noriega, Luke Menard and Jason Yeager. All had better performances this week than last, which is a good thing, and for Danny that meant better vocals, and for Luke that meant better expression and delivery, and for Jason that meant....hhhmm......BUT....Danny may still have to fight for fan votes, Luke is still holding back on us for those killer vocals and personality, and Jason is, well, probably going home.
Paula was lucid! I was grateful. Maybe that "hit song" Ryan mentioned is the ticket....what did you think of our Top 10 Men?
To sum up the evening: my hubby walked in late, catching only the evening's final performance (but what a one to catch!). Without time to watch the entire broadcast, I replayed for him only two performances. First one was Jason Castro. While the judges disliked his semi-acoustic rendition of Andy Gibb's "I Just Want To Be Your Everything" and Simon called it "shmaltsy" at least twice (whatever that means), I absolutely loved it. First of all, love the song, love his almost folksy, stripped-down take on it....agree with Paula that the switch-up from acoustic to band to acoustic was fresh, and instead of being "weak" (said Simon), I call it "Idoltastic!"
Second replay performance was from Chikezie, who gets this week's Most Improved Idol Award. Night and day from last week. This week we saw energy, charisma, soul...what a difference a week makes! Could be, too, that I am still positively transferring energy from the awesome Elliot Yamin who brilliantly delivered this song in season 5....but I suddenly like Chikezie again, and I think his performance will find him safe this week.
Other worthy performances, although not worthy enough to delay the hubby's putting the kids to bed (that's what TiVo is for), were, in no particular order, The Three Davids! No doubt, David Archuleta's fan base is growing. I love the kid, and even though it was a little risky of a song (Wikipedia: "Imagine" is widely considered to be one of the greatest songs of all time), Simon had to admit that it worked. Not to speak too soon, but I can honestly see this kid winning the whole thing. Ladies, take note!
David Hernandez came alive tonight and is a vocal force to be reckoned with. Last week he was flat and somewhat dull, and we saw no hint of the brilliant vocals we saw in Hollywood....well, here they were! His version of Motown's "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone" delivered the personality and expression from him that we had been missing....plus I loved that he gave a post-performance nod to the band (always courteous) and that he got a Standing O from Paula and others. He deserved it, and he needed it to stay alive and have hopes of cracking the Top 12.
Finally, while I'm not a huge fan, David Cook had a great performance tonight. I don't know why it's a battle, but Randy pronounced him the true "rocker" of this year's men....so, what, David Cook went back and pierced his pinky toe and ate raw meat for dinner? I don't know what to make of that (and neither does Robbie Carrico). In any event, Cook's "All Right Now" was kind of Daughtry-esque and I liked the guitar.
His name isn't David, but Michael Johns was solidly in the middle tonight. His fan base will easily carry him through another week (and his tennis revelation will garner at least 100 votes from SuzE!) but he's got to realize that each week is a new competition, and if he's not careful, he will be singing Fleetwood Mac's "Go Your Own Way" for real. In the same category, Robbie Carrico showed us that, in fact, he does have hair under that doo-rag....but he didn't impress. I see that he graduated from the Bo Bice School of Mic Stand Holding, but he's got to step it up to stay in it.
In the "you betta cross your fingers" group for me tonight were Danny Noriega, Luke Menard and Jason Yeager. All had better performances this week than last, which is a good thing, and for Danny that meant better vocals, and for Luke that meant better expression and delivery, and for Jason that meant....hhhmm......BUT....Danny may still have to fight for fan votes, Luke is still holding back on us for those killer vocals and personality, and Jason is, well, probably going home.
Paula was lucid! I was grateful. Maybe that "hit song" Ryan mentioned is the ticket....what did you think of our Top 10 Men?
Monday, February 25, 2008
Who's on top heading into semifinals week #2?
There didn't seem to be much backlash about the four contestants who left Idol last week...who were they again? (just kidding!) but from surfing the Internet today, it looks like, popularity-wise, there are three guys and three girls who appear to have spots in the Top 12 all but sewn up.
There is little debate that David Archuleta, Michael Johns and Jason Castro are the male front runners. Each is enjoying a comfortable popularity level that should take them to the Top 12. According to my blogger colleague idolblog (who, unlike myself, is sophisticated enough to mount such a poll), when asked Who Is Your Favorite Male Top 20 Contestant? readers responded in force. With 1,161 total votes cast, David A. has a huge lead with 45% of votes, Michael Johns follows with an impressive 23%, and Jason Castro enjoys a slimmer but respectable 10% of votes cast on this blog.
After those top 3, the pack flattens ... any of the remaining 7 male contestants has a shot at the Top 6. Historically, Chikezie's appearance in the bottom 2 last week will be tough to overcome, and idolblog's poll this week is consistent with his lackof support since he fetched the lowest number of votes at 1%. Next up from the bottom of the male poll with 2 percent of votes are Robbie Carrico and Jason Yeager. Now, the latter I can understand, but Robbie? His performance last week was pretty favorably reviewed, but something about him isn't impressing. Moving up from the bottom men, David Hernandez and Luke Menard both got 3% of votes, David Cook 4% and Danny Noriega 7%.
The situation with the ladies is quite a bit different! Ramiele has a way comfortable 43% of the 1,150 votes cast for Who Is Your Favorite Female Top 20 Contestant? on idolblog, with second and third-place vote getters far in the distance tied at 9% (Asia'h and Syesha). Three gals tied for 7% (Brooke, Amanda and Carly), Kady got 6%, Kristy Lee was next with 5%, Alaina at 4%, and Alexandrea hit the bottom of this poll with 1%.
Those results are very interesting. The only female contestant with a margin comfortable enough to suggest a sure Top 12 berth is Ramiele, while the rest will certainly be duking it out in the coming weeks. I was quite surprised by a couple of things. First, Amanda's appearance in the bottom 2 last week is not consistent with her 7% popularity vote in this poll. Likewise, Alexandrea's spirited performance was well-received, although not as reflected here as she got the lowest number of female votes. Finally, our two reigning professionals-with-failed-record-contracts that have gotten so much press? Carly and Kristy got a disappointing 7 and 5% of votes, respectively, which tells me it's any one's game for the ladies!
There is little debate that David Archuleta, Michael Johns and Jason Castro are the male front runners. Each is enjoying a comfortable popularity level that should take them to the Top 12. According to my blogger colleague idolblog (who, unlike myself, is sophisticated enough to mount such a poll), when asked Who Is Your Favorite Male Top 20 Contestant? readers responded in force. With 1,161 total votes cast, David A. has a huge lead with 45% of votes, Michael Johns follows with an impressive 23%, and Jason Castro enjoys a slimmer but respectable 10% of votes cast on this blog.
After those top 3, the pack flattens ... any of the remaining 7 male contestants has a shot at the Top 6. Historically, Chikezie's appearance in the bottom 2 last week will be tough to overcome, and idolblog's poll this week is consistent with his lackof support since he fetched the lowest number of votes at 1%. Next up from the bottom of the male poll with 2 percent of votes are Robbie Carrico and Jason Yeager. Now, the latter I can understand, but Robbie? His performance last week was pretty favorably reviewed, but something about him isn't impressing. Moving up from the bottom men, David Hernandez and Luke Menard both got 3% of votes, David Cook 4% and Danny Noriega 7%.
The situation with the ladies is quite a bit different! Ramiele has a way comfortable 43% of the 1,150 votes cast for Who Is Your Favorite Female Top 20 Contestant? on idolblog, with second and third-place vote getters far in the distance tied at 9% (Asia'h and Syesha). Three gals tied for 7% (Brooke, Amanda and Carly), Kady got 6%, Kristy Lee was next with 5%, Alaina at 4%, and Alexandrea hit the bottom of this poll with 1%.
Those results are very interesting. The only female contestant with a margin comfortable enough to suggest a sure Top 12 berth is Ramiele, while the rest will certainly be duking it out in the coming weeks. I was quite surprised by a couple of things. First, Amanda's appearance in the bottom 2 last week is not consistent with her 7% popularity vote in this poll. Likewise, Alexandrea's spirited performance was well-received, although not as reflected here as she got the lowest number of female votes. Finally, our two reigning professionals-with-failed-record-contracts that have gotten so much press? Carly and Kristy got a disappointing 7 and 5% of votes, respectively, which tells me it's any one's game for the ladies!
Thursday, February 21, 2008
First Semi-Finals Elimination Re-Cap
Tonight's show opened with banter between Ryan and judges which appeared to me to be a light-hearted effort to address all of the critical press about the previous professional experience of many of this season's Top 24 (Carly and Michael Johns in particular). It was a little too light-hearted for me, not much 'splaining got done, but at least they are listening! I also found it interesting that they used a Daughtry track for the Top 24 montage background....dude must be a little gratified (not as much as those 4 Grammy nominations, but still....) Twenty-eight million votes! That has to be a record for semi-finals week 1, no?
No surprise with Garrett, although I thought it possible for him to get the teen vote, which obviously didn't go to Colton, either. (Colton should pursue theater.) I thought Garrett's exit performance was better than the competition version, which I must say happens a lot, and it's unfortunate. Would it have made a difference tonight with Garrett? No, I don't think so...but you sure want to give you best when you have the chance and not after, duh!
Same thing with Joanne....her parting performance tonight was better than what she offered last night. I don't think Amanda deserved to stand up there with her....but she did. Stranger things have happened. Amy's exit performance reminded me that she needed to go, and even though she was ready to cry, she managed to hold it together. I'm pretty sure I would collapse into a gooey puddle were it me, so I really admire those who can stand there, chin up, smile, and sing one last time. Good luck with that trade show modeling! (whatever that is)
I'm sure you noticed, too, that they have given the accompanying relations/supporters of the dearly departed a new, special farewell viewing spot on the balcony this season. But that number is clearly limited to two...we'd be drawing furious straws in my family, dawg!
Another question for you.....when remaining contestants cry at the announcement of who is going home, are they crying because they a) are sad to see a dear friend go, or b) relieved that they, themselves, get to stay another week and wear awesome shoes, get awesome hair and make up, awesome clothing allowance, eat awesome food.....hmmm.) Ramiele, Kady and Alaina need to quit crying and toughen up. This is just the beginning, ladies! Grow some skin and git ready for hard times ahead.
Paula's dance video? I have a split opinion on this, to be honest. The larger part of me said, wwhhhhaah???? It looked and sounded like something Janet Jackson did 10 years ago, and I can't see any dance clubs seriously playing that unless they cater to under-13 crowds. But another part of me said, hey! Paula is mid-40's and looks fantastic (we should all be that lucky)...and even if she doesn't, so what? If it's something she wants/needs to do right now, then I say you go, girl! I think she has been more present this season, and maybe it's the new life this 2nd career wind has given her...there's nothing wrong with that. Okay -- Middle-Aged Paula, I Salute You!
Note to the Top 20: I know you are coached to avoid reading press, including blogs like this one, but in case you set your Google Alert for yourself and surfed on in here to Idolmama, a few bits of advice on song choice for next week:
1. People like to clap along.
2. People like to sing along ( at least in their heads)
3. People like to hear songs they know (not something obscure)
Until next week...
No surprise with Garrett, although I thought it possible for him to get the teen vote, which obviously didn't go to Colton, either. (Colton should pursue theater.) I thought Garrett's exit performance was better than the competition version, which I must say happens a lot, and it's unfortunate. Would it have made a difference tonight with Garrett? No, I don't think so...but you sure want to give you best when you have the chance and not after, duh!
Same thing with Joanne....her parting performance tonight was better than what she offered last night. I don't think Amanda deserved to stand up there with her....but she did. Stranger things have happened. Amy's exit performance reminded me that she needed to go, and even though she was ready to cry, she managed to hold it together. I'm pretty sure I would collapse into a gooey puddle were it me, so I really admire those who can stand there, chin up, smile, and sing one last time. Good luck with that trade show modeling! (whatever that is)
I'm sure you noticed, too, that they have given the accompanying relations/supporters of the dearly departed a new, special farewell viewing spot on the balcony this season. But that number is clearly limited to two...we'd be drawing furious straws in my family, dawg!
Another question for you.....when remaining contestants cry at the announcement of who is going home, are they crying because they a) are sad to see a dear friend go, or b) relieved that they, themselves, get to stay another week and wear awesome shoes, get awesome hair and make up, awesome clothing allowance, eat awesome food.....hmmm.) Ramiele, Kady and Alaina need to quit crying and toughen up. This is just the beginning, ladies! Grow some skin and git ready for hard times ahead.
Paula's dance video? I have a split opinion on this, to be honest. The larger part of me said, wwhhhhaah???? It looked and sounded like something Janet Jackson did 10 years ago, and I can't see any dance clubs seriously playing that unless they cater to under-13 crowds. But another part of me said, hey! Paula is mid-40's and looks fantastic (we should all be that lucky)...and even if she doesn't, so what? If it's something she wants/needs to do right now, then I say you go, girl! I think she has been more present this season, and maybe it's the new life this 2nd career wind has given her...there's nothing wrong with that. Okay -- Middle-Aged Paula, I Salute You!
Note to the Top 20: I know you are coached to avoid reading press, including blogs like this one, but in case you set your Google Alert for yourself and surfed on in here to Idolmama, a few bits of advice on song choice for next week:
1. People like to clap along.
2. People like to sing along ( at least in their heads)
3. People like to hear songs they know (not something obscure)
Until next week...
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
It's Ladies Night (and the Feelin's Right)
Sorry to use a 70's song on 60's night, but whatevs. It fits! But the feelin' weren't right since the flu bug hit the girls dorm.....I feel your pain. {{sniff}}. We're battling that here... stay tough.
I was reminded tonight of how important performance order is. To my new BFFs over at WhatNotToSing.com, can you build a database that contains the order in which various contestants perform against their order of elimination and final standings? Just in case you have free time to whittle away....I think it's statistically connected....thanks.....just a theory of mine. (More specifically, it seems like they start in the middle, bottom out at commercial break, then build to the most anticipated performers of the night....but then again, golden boy David A. went 6th last night dead in the middle....still testing my theories....check back later...)
(Yes, Nigel, I'm happy to come on as a consultant, whenever you're ready for me)
I am also struck by another quite obvious factor: Paula and Randy are superfluous. I know, they bring fashion and light and actual singing/recording/musicianship/production/cheerleading experience to the mix, but it's clear that the contestants wait on pins and needles not for Randy and Paula, but ONLY to hear what Simon says. This showed on nearly everyone's face tonight. And, actually will be borne out in tomorrow's results, I predict, as follows:
Simon praised our Top 4 gals from tonight by proclaiming that one "outsung everyone", another will be "sailing through", pronounced another his "favorite", and told the fourth that she was "one of the most talented girls." All of them are safe, and should be, because they were all great: Ramiele, Alaina, Asia'h, and Syesha. Ramiele was my fav going into tonight, and she remains it. She's humble, polite, talented, beautiful, real, what's not to like? I was very surprised by Alaina, and she is my second fav tonight. Although she REALLY REALLY reminds me of Carrie (but that's not a bad thing), girl can SING. Asia'h has such an infectious smile and such control, and Syesha is, well, a professional.
The middle of the pack tonight got uniformly ('cept one) negative comments from Simon Scowell: Carly, Kady, Alexandrea, Kristy, and Joanne. (The other middle-of-the-packer that got praise from Simon ("I like you") was Amanda; see below). Carly may suffer from overhypeness, and I just don't know why I'm not on board with her (too Irish? too experienced? too dyed? too tatoo'ed?), and I fear that middle America isn't yet, either. Kady was better than average but did not impress. Alexandrea was also better than average but I need to hear more from her (and hope I do). Kristy? I hardly recognized her. Where was the country and western? At least she'll get the horse votes (third place to the puppy and kitten votes). Finally, Joanne is beautiful but unfortunately Simon called it "average cabaret" which won't do her any favors. (And Paundy, to borrow from my mentor Michael Slezak at Ew.com, agreed). Lastly, Amanda tickles me....I'd love to have a beer with her and listen to her nursing tales and peruse her CD collection, because I actually think she's heard the songs from tonight before! Wow! I admire that. I also think that she makes former "rocker" girls Nikki McKibbin and Gina Glocksen look like girl scouts.
The gong should be rung for Amy Davis (I'm so sorry, dear) and Brooke, even though Simon said he liked her, but I think he was just flirting. Amy, you said that being in the Top 24 was better than 100 Christmas mornings, but your performance was like 100 Christmas hangovers to listen to.
A few other things. I had time today to finally check out VoteForTheWorst.com for the first time this season, and I gotta tell ya, what they have going there is pretty interesting, check it out if you have time and/or the inclination....among other things they have uncovered there are:
I was reminded tonight of how important performance order is. To my new BFFs over at WhatNotToSing.com, can you build a database that contains the order in which various contestants perform against their order of elimination and final standings? Just in case you have free time to whittle away....I think it's statistically connected....thanks.....just a theory of mine. (More specifically, it seems like they start in the middle, bottom out at commercial break, then build to the most anticipated performers of the night....but then again, golden boy David A. went 6th last night dead in the middle....still testing my theories....check back later...)
(Yes, Nigel, I'm happy to come on as a consultant, whenever you're ready for me)
I am also struck by another quite obvious factor: Paula and Randy are superfluous. I know, they bring fashion and light and actual singing/recording/musicianship/production/cheerleading experience to the mix, but it's clear that the contestants wait on pins and needles not for Randy and Paula, but ONLY to hear what Simon says. This showed on nearly everyone's face tonight. And, actually will be borne out in tomorrow's results, I predict, as follows:
Simon praised our Top 4 gals from tonight by proclaiming that one "outsung everyone", another will be "sailing through", pronounced another his "favorite", and told the fourth that she was "one of the most talented girls." All of them are safe, and should be, because they were all great: Ramiele, Alaina, Asia'h, and Syesha. Ramiele was my fav going into tonight, and she remains it. She's humble, polite, talented, beautiful, real, what's not to like? I was very surprised by Alaina, and she is my second fav tonight. Although she REALLY REALLY reminds me of Carrie (but that's not a bad thing), girl can SING. Asia'h has such an infectious smile and such control, and Syesha is, well, a professional.
The middle of the pack tonight got uniformly ('cept one) negative comments from Simon Scowell: Carly, Kady, Alexandrea, Kristy, and Joanne. (The other middle-of-the-packer that got praise from Simon ("I like you") was Amanda; see below). Carly may suffer from overhypeness, and I just don't know why I'm not on board with her (too Irish? too experienced? too dyed? too tatoo'ed?), and I fear that middle America isn't yet, either. Kady was better than average but did not impress. Alexandrea was also better than average but I need to hear more from her (and hope I do). Kristy? I hardly recognized her. Where was the country and western? At least she'll get the horse votes (third place to the puppy and kitten votes). Finally, Joanne is beautiful but unfortunately Simon called it "average cabaret" which won't do her any favors. (And Paundy, to borrow from my mentor Michael Slezak at Ew.com, agreed). Lastly, Amanda tickles me....I'd love to have a beer with her and listen to her nursing tales and peruse her CD collection, because I actually think she's heard the songs from tonight before! Wow! I admire that. I also think that she makes former "rocker" girls Nikki McKibbin and Gina Glocksen look like girl scouts.
The gong should be rung for Amy Davis (I'm so sorry, dear) and Brooke, even though Simon said he liked her, but I think he was just flirting. Amy, you said that being in the Top 24 was better than 100 Christmas mornings, but your performance was like 100 Christmas hangovers to listen to.
A few other things. I had time today to finally check out VoteForTheWorst.com for the first time this season, and I gotta tell ya, what they have going there is pretty interesting, check it out if you have time and/or the inclination....among other things they have uncovered there are:
- A clip of Syesha's Ford Sync commercial from last year (who sponsors Idol?)
- Links to facts from Star Search showing that Alexandrea Lushington also competed (against David Archuleta!) on Star Search.
- The fact that Randy Jackson was the senior vice president of A&R. when Carly (Hennessey) Smithson was signed to RCA Records. Conflict of interest, anyone?
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Where the Boys Are
It was refreshing to take a break from the Presidential Primaries and relax with a little bit of Idol, don't you think? (Yes, I'm giggling as I write that....) I was juiced for another 2-hour episode, and as predicted, it flew by! I agree with the press that all 12 of these guys can sing....so how shall we separate the pack?
In case you missed it, here is the tally: we saw three guys who were cut last year only to make it to the Top 24 this year, three contestants with what Simon calls the IT! factor and three guys who's performances Simon called "boring", two contestants who claim they've never sung before in public for more than a few people, one orange suit, one "grotesque and hideous" performance, and finally, two gorgeous biceps :)
I can't believe that two of these guys will head home on Thursday, because I admire each of them for standing on that stage tonight, and I hope they've had a good time so far. And we know it's an honor just to have been selected, yada yada yada.....we'll start with the not-so-good news. There are very easily 4 guys tonight clearly in jeopardy of going home with no questions asked.
As darn cute as he was, Garrett Haley is just no match for the older, more mature and experienced contestants. Even so, I can't believe he's never sang in public. It certainly didn't show, he has a very nice voice, although hesitant, and his take on "Breaking Up Is Hard to Do" of course didn't come close to A-Fed's Season 4 performance for me. He is a cutie, tho, and I'd like to see more of him. Likewise, Jason Yeager has a smooth and enjoyable voice, when you are on Carnival getting ready to call at Cozumel, but he's not right for Idol. (Note: watch him, tho, since he has both the Grandma and all-important Mommy vote with that adorable son at his side!) I liked Chikezie in earlier auditions, but he clearly soured Simon tonight, and I just had trouble with the lower register required for his song choice. When he talked back and got sassy, I was ready to click the "eject" button on him. Finally, adorable as you are, Luke, I'm sorry that tonight didn't showcase what I know you are capable of. Chalk it up to nerves, but it wasn't your best night. We still love you! I hope we see you again next week! But if not, can I talk carpet with ya? I've got these stairs......
In the middle of the pack are David Hernandez, David Cook, Colton Berry and Danny Noriega. Colton and Danny have some work to do to win over voters next week, if they survive. Danny had a little too much "swagger" and not enough "singing" to let us see what he's capable of and note to him: do NOT channel Kellie Picker and draw attention to your awesome shoes to deflect attention from your negative feedback! and then diss Simon! People don't like that. Likewise, while you have a very nice voice and amazing control and showmanship for an 18 year old, Idol isn't about showmanship! Colton, if you come back next week, show us something we can hear on the radio and remember and humble yourself while you're at it.
I'm pretty sure David H. and David Cook are safe this week, but will have to step up to insure a spot in the Top 12. David H. has a great voice, but he's just too dang serious...like the judges said, lighten up! A smile goes a long way! People like to see that you are having fun and enjoying yourself. Meanwhile, David Cook just received his diploma from the Constantine School of Rock with his mic-stand-holding moves and his bedroom eyes and intermittent growl....this alone will pass him along, I'm sure of it.
Sure bets for next week? Ex-Britney squeeze and Boy Bander Robbie has enough goods to get votes, and since Paula said he looks "fantastic", he's through :) Likewise, Micheal Johns is a shoe-in for next week. His natural charisma and smart song choice played well. Also, David Archuleta will be back after a fantastic Cap't and Tenille covered number that had me grinning....he got more screen pimping than any other contestant tonight....not that it wasn't deserved, but geez....his whole shtick lasted 20 minutes or more (didn't it?) My peeps in this house love him (but since they are all still in grade school, they only get half a vote).
My favorite tonight? A relative unknown: Jason Castro. I admit, his dreadlocks threw me off...but his smile won me over. I was worried about the guitar thing but he did it. He was fresh, and unique, and very fun to watch....and since he's one of the ones who says he's sung in front of "five people, at the most", he's got that plucked-from-obscurity I can root for! I look forward to seeing more of his "IT" in the coming weeks!
So, what did you think? I'd love to hear!
In case you missed it, here is the tally: we saw three guys who were cut last year only to make it to the Top 24 this year, three contestants with what Simon calls the IT! factor and three guys who's performances Simon called "boring", two contestants who claim they've never sung before in public for more than a few people, one orange suit, one "grotesque and hideous" performance, and finally, two gorgeous biceps :)
I can't believe that two of these guys will head home on Thursday, because I admire each of them for standing on that stage tonight, and I hope they've had a good time so far. And we know it's an honor just to have been selected, yada yada yada.....we'll start with the not-so-good news. There are very easily 4 guys tonight clearly in jeopardy of going home with no questions asked.
As darn cute as he was, Garrett Haley is just no match for the older, more mature and experienced contestants. Even so, I can't believe he's never sang in public. It certainly didn't show, he has a very nice voice, although hesitant, and his take on "Breaking Up Is Hard to Do" of course didn't come close to A-Fed's Season 4 performance for me. He is a cutie, tho, and I'd like to see more of him. Likewise, Jason Yeager has a smooth and enjoyable voice, when you are on Carnival getting ready to call at Cozumel, but he's not right for Idol. (Note: watch him, tho, since he has both the Grandma and all-important Mommy vote with that adorable son at his side!) I liked Chikezie in earlier auditions, but he clearly soured Simon tonight, and I just had trouble with the lower register required for his song choice. When he talked back and got sassy, I was ready to click the "eject" button on him. Finally, adorable as you are, Luke, I'm sorry that tonight didn't showcase what I know you are capable of. Chalk it up to nerves, but it wasn't your best night. We still love you! I hope we see you again next week! But if not, can I talk carpet with ya? I've got these stairs......
In the middle of the pack are David Hernandez, David Cook, Colton Berry and Danny Noriega. Colton and Danny have some work to do to win over voters next week, if they survive. Danny had a little too much "swagger" and not enough "singing" to let us see what he's capable of and note to him: do NOT channel Kellie Picker and draw attention to your awesome shoes to deflect attention from your negative feedback! and then diss Simon! People don't like that. Likewise, while you have a very nice voice and amazing control and showmanship for an 18 year old, Idol isn't about showmanship! Colton, if you come back next week, show us something we can hear on the radio and remember and humble yourself while you're at it.
I'm pretty sure David H. and David Cook are safe this week, but will have to step up to insure a spot in the Top 12. David H. has a great voice, but he's just too dang serious...like the judges said, lighten up! A smile goes a long way! People like to see that you are having fun and enjoying yourself. Meanwhile, David Cook just received his diploma from the Constantine School of Rock with his mic-stand-holding moves and his bedroom eyes and intermittent growl....this alone will pass him along, I'm sure of it.
Sure bets for next week? Ex-Britney squeeze and Boy Bander Robbie has enough goods to get votes, and since Paula said he looks "fantastic", he's through :) Likewise, Micheal Johns is a shoe-in for next week. His natural charisma and smart song choice played well. Also, David Archuleta will be back after a fantastic Cap't and Tenille covered number that had me grinning....he got more screen pimping than any other contestant tonight....not that it wasn't deserved, but geez....his whole shtick lasted 20 minutes or more (didn't it?) My peeps in this house love him (but since they are all still in grade school, they only get half a vote).
My favorite tonight? A relative unknown: Jason Castro. I admit, his dreadlocks threw me off...but his smile won me over. I was worried about the guitar thing but he did it. He was fresh, and unique, and very fun to watch....and since he's one of the ones who says he's sung in front of "five people, at the most", he's got that plucked-from-obscurity I can root for! I look forward to seeing more of his "IT" in the coming weeks!
So, what did you think? I'd love to hear!
Monday, February 18, 2008
All That Hype About Carly Smithson
Several people who know I'm an Idol geek have asked me about Carly Smithson and what the definition of professional is (or should be) for Idol auditioners. I think this is a tough question, and wonder why it's not been asked before with this much vigor.
While it's certainly more fun to root for someone with obvious natural talent plucked from virtual obscurity (i.e. Elliot, Carrie Underwood, Fantasia) than someone who has already recorded a CD or otherwise been given a record deal (or at least had the privilege of being signed by, say, Madonna or Britney Spear's record labels) it's true that before last week, I'd never heard of Carly Hennessy Smithson, Kristy Lee Cook, or David Archuleta. So what that means to me is that Idol still offers a stratospheric path to stardom for some professionals (and that, by definition, includes the wedding singers, Broadway touring cast members for Rent and/or The Lion King, back up singers, etc.) that have graced the Idol Top 10 stage in recent years. (That includes LaToya London, Constantine, Lisa Tucker, Melinda Doolittle, Jordin, Brandon Rogers, to name a few).
I felt a little better even today about the power of previous experience when I clicked on one of my own links below to Idolblog....this site did a (not at all) scientific poll asking, Who is Your Favorite FEMALE/MALE Top 24 Contestant?
Those who voted for their Favorite Male Idol Top 24 Contestant (448 votes at the time of this snapshot) voted for David Archuleta in very strong numbers (42 percent) followed by Michael Johns (27 percent). Both of these contestants do have significant pre-Idol professional experience. The rest of the malepack faded into a virtual tie with Danny Noriega and David Cook getting 5 percent of the votes, Jason Yeager 3 percent, a 5-way-tie for two percent for Garrett, Colton, Chikezie, Luke, and Robbie, and Jason Castro at the bottom with one percent. But, to me, that's a pretty even match up!
Interestingly, the results for Favorite Female Idol Top 24 Contestant were MUCH more spread out. The top vote-getter for the gals in this poll was Ramiele, but with just 23 percent of the votes (out of 525....why would there be more votes cast for females? You're on the website, you clearly watch the show.....why not cast a vote for the guys?) I am also surprised by Ramiele's popularity. I thought I was the only one who got her fantastic voice and endearing personality, but I guess not!
Second place for the gals was Asia'h with 13 percent of the votes....closely followed by a tie at 12 percent by Kristy Lee Cook and Carly Smithson. Now, this is where I make my point....even with all of her publicity, Carly comes in third place with the gals, and it's tight...in other words, her former RCA record deal doesn't seem to be doing her any favors in popularity at this point.
The galpack trails off at this point with Kady Malloy at 8 percent, a three-way tie for 6 percent between Syesha, Amanda and Brooke, and a four-way tie at 2 percent between our bottom-poll-vote-getters Alaina, Amy Davis, Alexandrea, and Joanne. Again, a very even race!
Interesting that my own very non-scientific poll asking whether or not a guy or a gal would win American Idol Season 7 turned up 5 votes for GUY and only 2 votes for GAL.....it does seem at this point that both polls I discuss here show the fans for the guys as more solidified than the fan base for the women. We'll see how this bears out!
While it's certainly more fun to root for someone with obvious natural talent plucked from virtual obscurity (i.e. Elliot, Carrie Underwood, Fantasia) than someone who has already recorded a CD or otherwise been given a record deal (or at least had the privilege of being signed by, say, Madonna or Britney Spear's record labels) it's true that before last week, I'd never heard of Carly Hennessy Smithson, Kristy Lee Cook, or David Archuleta. So what that means to me is that Idol still offers a stratospheric path to stardom for some professionals (and that, by definition, includes the wedding singers, Broadway touring cast members for Rent and/or The Lion King, back up singers, etc.) that have graced the Idol Top 10 stage in recent years. (That includes LaToya London, Constantine, Lisa Tucker, Melinda Doolittle, Jordin, Brandon Rogers, to name a few).
I felt a little better even today about the power of previous experience when I clicked on one of my own links below to Idolblog....this site did a (not at all) scientific poll asking, Who is Your Favorite FEMALE/MALE Top 24 Contestant?
Those who voted for their Favorite Male Idol Top 24 Contestant (448 votes at the time of this snapshot) voted for David Archuleta in very strong numbers (42 percent) followed by Michael Johns (27 percent). Both of these contestants do have significant pre-Idol professional experience. The rest of the malepack faded into a virtual tie with Danny Noriega and David Cook getting 5 percent of the votes, Jason Yeager 3 percent, a 5-way-tie for two percent for Garrett, Colton, Chikezie, Luke, and Robbie, and Jason Castro at the bottom with one percent. But, to me, that's a pretty even match up!
Interestingly, the results for Favorite Female Idol Top 24 Contestant were MUCH more spread out. The top vote-getter for the gals in this poll was Ramiele, but with just 23 percent of the votes (out of 525....why would there be more votes cast for females? You're on the website, you clearly watch the show.....why not cast a vote for the guys?) I am also surprised by Ramiele's popularity. I thought I was the only one who got her fantastic voice and endearing personality, but I guess not!
Second place for the gals was Asia'h with 13 percent of the votes....closely followed by a tie at 12 percent by Kristy Lee Cook and Carly Smithson. Now, this is where I make my point....even with all of her publicity, Carly comes in third place with the gals, and it's tight...in other words, her former RCA record deal doesn't seem to be doing her any favors in popularity at this point.
The galpack trails off at this point with Kady Malloy at 8 percent, a three-way tie for 6 percent between Syesha, Amanda and Brooke, and a four-way tie at 2 percent between our bottom-poll-vote-getters Alaina, Amy Davis, Alexandrea, and Joanne. Again, a very even race!
Interesting that my own very non-scientific poll asking whether or not a guy or a gal would win American Idol Season 7 turned up 5 votes for GUY and only 2 votes for GAL.....it does seem at this point that both polls I discuss here show the fans for the guys as more solidified than the fan base for the women. We'll see how this bears out!
Sunday, February 17, 2008
The Six Degrees of Simon Cowell
I hoped it would happen, and it finally has: I am separated from Simon with only 6 people! My dear friend has a co-worker who's wife's cousin is Luke Menard, of Top 24 fame! Folks, this is amazing! And apparently Luke's now reading this blog (hi Luke! Sorry for saying that bit about history and your being likely to go first....I didn't mean it....rootin' for ya, bro!)
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Top 24 Revealed (For Sure)
Funny thing happened on the way to watching tonight's cliffhanger (not!). I had settled all household matters with usual Idol urgency (except the 102+ degree fever that has plagued one offspring for several days now) so didn't get around to actually watching until a couple of hours post-broadcast. Eagerly, but wearily, I settled in, glass of Chardonnay in hand, with anticipation and excitement...only to find out that my recording of tonight's show was done without any sound. Mind you, I DVR on a daily basis, and this has never happened. We spent 30 minutes on the phone with [satellite provider who shall remain nameless] only to realize that nothing could be done.
The first half of the show found us using whatever lipreading skills we had (limited) and making up storylines.....enough said. Not too much, therefore, to report on this half, other than the fact that the judges really have such Poker Faces for the contestant's long walks to the cheap chair, and up and until the verdict is rendered....sooooo much more obvious when you can't hear them talk. It also seemed like Paula was doing most of the talking! And Simon the least. No surprises for me on those who made it. I could pretty much tell just from the visuals, and there didn't seem to be any surprises.
Then, a miracle occurred....the sound suddenly came back on during the piece on the Hottie Aussie Micheal Johns....and stayed on for the rest of the show. Yea! And I wondered if that was somehow prophetic...in a juvenile sort of way....and then I let that thought go.
Only three "surprises" or upsets, if you will....the first being Josiah. The build up on him was such that I expected him to go through. At the expense of whom, however, I am not certain. In the end, the kid is 18 years old, and I have a feeling we will see him again next year.
The only other "upset" was with the final set up with the one spot but two people left thing that they do....I really don't like that. First of all, it makes it look like the judges actually had to _choose_ between those two specific contestants when in fact, it's all orchestrated to create the most drama....set up the final spot decided between two contestants we could equally root for, to make us really uncomfortable....ick. Shame on them. It also makes it impossible for the chosen one to really let go and celebrate, and feel good about being chosen since they have to share the same space with the loser.....the long walk, the camera time....Simon's line to the ladies about sharing the elevator was classic.
I was less surprised to see Kyle "Glee Club" Ensley not get the Top 24 than Cardin...but at the same time, I think Kyle could have surprised us with the most improved award at the end of the day...he had the most room for growth, would have been fun to watch, and he's just so dang happy! Simon's praise to him in parting was awesome, and Kyle, I hope you realize that Simon doesn't just say stuff to people to say it! Cardin, on the other hand, perhaps looked a little too professional to the judges? with more to gain from Idol than Idol from her....and I saw Haley Scarnato 2.0 and wasn't impressed. Joanne has something untapped and fresh about her, and I think the judges saw that. In either case, I don't see either of these ladies making the Top 6 girls.
I'm ashamed to admit (or am I?) that there were 5 faces with names I really didn't know much about or remember from auditions from tonight's Top 24: Garrett, Luke, Amy, Alaina, and Jason. I'm hoping it's just because they didn't get much screen time since I'm fairly attentive :) Although history would suggest these are the first to go.
What do you think? Did you have a favorite left out of tonight's Top 24? Did Paula do most of the talking? Was Brooke the nanny really saying, "Yes! I don't have to change diapers for a while now" when I couldn't hear her?
And if you can identify for me the exit song they are playing this year so far....something about putting on your Blue Jeans....could you write me and let me know what song it is? I would appreciate it :)
p.s. what happened to Samantha Sidley, the Nora Jones jazz singer?? Did I miss something?
The first half of the show found us using whatever lipreading skills we had (limited) and making up storylines.....enough said. Not too much, therefore, to report on this half, other than the fact that the judges really have such Poker Faces for the contestant's long walks to the cheap chair, and up and until the verdict is rendered....sooooo much more obvious when you can't hear them talk. It also seemed like Paula was doing most of the talking! And Simon the least. No surprises for me on those who made it. I could pretty much tell just from the visuals, and there didn't seem to be any surprises.
Then, a miracle occurred....the sound suddenly came back on during the piece on the Hottie Aussie Micheal Johns....and stayed on for the rest of the show. Yea! And I wondered if that was somehow prophetic...in a juvenile sort of way....and then I let that thought go.
Only three "surprises" or upsets, if you will....the first being Josiah. The build up on him was such that I expected him to go through. At the expense of whom, however, I am not certain. In the end, the kid is 18 years old, and I have a feeling we will see him again next year.
The only other "upset" was with the final set up with the one spot but two people left thing that they do....I really don't like that. First of all, it makes it look like the judges actually had to _choose_ between those two specific contestants when in fact, it's all orchestrated to create the most drama....set up the final spot decided between two contestants we could equally root for, to make us really uncomfortable....ick. Shame on them. It also makes it impossible for the chosen one to really let go and celebrate, and feel good about being chosen since they have to share the same space with the loser.....the long walk, the camera time....Simon's line to the ladies about sharing the elevator was classic.
I was less surprised to see Kyle "Glee Club" Ensley not get the Top 24 than Cardin...but at the same time, I think Kyle could have surprised us with the most improved award at the end of the day...he had the most room for growth, would have been fun to watch, and he's just so dang happy! Simon's praise to him in parting was awesome, and Kyle, I hope you realize that Simon doesn't just say stuff to people to say it! Cardin, on the other hand, perhaps looked a little too professional to the judges? with more to gain from Idol than Idol from her....and I saw Haley Scarnato 2.0 and wasn't impressed. Joanne has something untapped and fresh about her, and I think the judges saw that. In either case, I don't see either of these ladies making the Top 6 girls.
I'm ashamed to admit (or am I?) that there were 5 faces with names I really didn't know much about or remember from auditions from tonight's Top 24: Garrett, Luke, Amy, Alaina, and Jason. I'm hoping it's just because they didn't get much screen time since I'm fairly attentive :) Although history would suggest these are the first to go.
What do you think? Did you have a favorite left out of tonight's Top 24? Did Paula do most of the talking? Was Brooke the nanny really saying, "Yes! I don't have to change diapers for a while now" when I couldn't hear her?
And if you can identify for me the exit song they are playing this year so far....something about putting on your Blue Jeans....could you write me and let me know what song it is? I would appreciate it :)
p.s. what happened to Samantha Sidley, the Nora Jones jazz singer?? Did I miss something?
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Hollywood Week Round One
Tonight's two hours of "talent stronger than ever" went so fast and furious that many of the season's favs went by so fast I could hardly take notes...it was like a speed-reading class. And several of them had sought stylist help in the interim (as I would have) rendering them completely unrecognizable.
As far as I could tell, tonight crammed four out of five Hollywood audition days into one, and speed-read the reduction of 164 contestants down to 50....tomorrow will take those 50 down to the Top 24 in the final day of Hollywood Week. (I, for one, would enjoy more of this week and less auditioning, Fox, if you are listening).
I know there are mucho Top 24 Spoilers out there available...I have resisted the urge to peek. So if you are reading this and thinking to yourself, geez, Idolmama, UR a moron....everybody knows [insert potential Season Seven Idol winner] [made it/got cut]...that's because I'm still in the dark ages :)
My favorite two guys after tonight are David Hernandez and David Archuleta. We hadn't seen David H. before tonight, he was one of those Lucky Charms I mentioned earlier....just when you think you've seen it all, there is a yummy nugget in the bottom of your bowl. YUM. I'd like to love the one I'm with if it's with him :) And even though David A. is just 16 years old (ouch) I really, really like him...as Simon said, he's got the package of youth, looks and talent....I just have to forget that whole Star Search thing....
For the gals, I really like Ramiele. (course, I liked Jasmine Trias, too, and I'm not even from Hawaii). Likewise, Asai'h is a favorite of mine....I didn't recognize her at first tonight....loved her performance and can't wait to see more of her.
I can't, at this point, get excited about: Kyle Ensley (I like him in a quirky way, but not in a Clay Aiken way, more like Alex P. Keaton); Carly Smithson (all that press about her failed 5-disc deal with MCA under her maiden name has soured me a bit...most people don't get a chance like that....why should she get this one?)... Micheal Johns....(okay, again, the Hottie Aussie once had a deal with Madonna’s music label....he's cute and all, but I'm not writing home just yet); Amanda, the "rock and roll nurse"....I like her and all, but I found myself thinking of Taylor Hicks when I watched her tonight....someone we fall in love with and celebrate and champion as a unique performer, but then ultimately don't buy their CDs because we don't want to play them in the minivan.) Much-hyped Kristi Lee Cook? I'm waiting to see...her first Hollywood audition was passed over meaning she got one of those new "second chances" tonight, which means there is some vulnerability in that perfect package. I also really, really like Syesha, but am not sure of her staying power, she also warbled a bit at first and had to come back and sing again. Brooke, the piano-playing nanny? She was actually a great way to kick off the show, and one of very few tonight who managed to use an instrument as a weapon of good...but I don't think she has a depth to survive. I will note but not discuss Danny Noriega, David Cook, Robbie-with-the-beanie-who-used-to-date-Britney-Spears, Jessica Somebody and Colton Berry (did we see him before?) Just to be brief!
Which brings us to Josiah. Like the judges, I am split on him. I can see that he is very, very talented in an off-beat way. Could potentially bring a new element to Idol that we need. But wait, we did that last season with Blake....hhmmm.....we'll have to see if the judges find him Top 24-worthy.
Interestingly we saw absolutely no screen time tonight for three audition favs: Kady Malloy, Chikeze Eze and Samantha Sidley. Does this mean there was no drama with them and they make it to the Top 24? Or not?
I must make a parting bow to Kayla, Angelica Puentas, and my other hometown girl Angela Martin. Ladies, hold your heads high....I hope this Idol experience opens new doors for you, you are terrific!
Top 24 revealed tomorrow...stay tuned!
As far as I could tell, tonight crammed four out of five Hollywood audition days into one, and speed-read the reduction of 164 contestants down to 50....tomorrow will take those 50 down to the Top 24 in the final day of Hollywood Week. (I, for one, would enjoy more of this week and less auditioning, Fox, if you are listening).
I know there are mucho Top 24 Spoilers out there available...I have resisted the urge to peek. So if you are reading this and thinking to yourself, geez, Idolmama, UR a moron....everybody knows [insert potential Season Seven Idol winner] [made it/got cut]...that's because I'm still in the dark ages :)
My favorite two guys after tonight are David Hernandez and David Archuleta. We hadn't seen David H. before tonight, he was one of those Lucky Charms I mentioned earlier....just when you think you've seen it all, there is a yummy nugget in the bottom of your bowl. YUM. I'd like to love the one I'm with if it's with him :) And even though David A. is just 16 years old (ouch) I really, really like him...as Simon said, he's got the package of youth, looks and talent....I just have to forget that whole Star Search thing....
For the gals, I really like Ramiele. (course, I liked Jasmine Trias, too, and I'm not even from Hawaii). Likewise, Asai'h is a favorite of mine....I didn't recognize her at first tonight....loved her performance and can't wait to see more of her.
I can't, at this point, get excited about: Kyle Ensley (I like him in a quirky way, but not in a Clay Aiken way, more like Alex P. Keaton); Carly Smithson (all that press about her failed 5-disc deal with MCA under her maiden name has soured me a bit...most people don't get a chance like that....why should she get this one?)... Micheal Johns....(okay, again, the Hottie Aussie once had a deal with Madonna’s music label....he's cute and all, but I'm not writing home just yet); Amanda, the "rock and roll nurse"....I like her and all, but I found myself thinking of Taylor Hicks when I watched her tonight....someone we fall in love with and celebrate and champion as a unique performer, but then ultimately don't buy their CDs because we don't want to play them in the minivan.) Much-hyped Kristi Lee Cook? I'm waiting to see...her first Hollywood audition was passed over meaning she got one of those new "second chances" tonight, which means there is some vulnerability in that perfect package. I also really, really like Syesha, but am not sure of her staying power, she also warbled a bit at first and had to come back and sing again. Brooke, the piano-playing nanny? She was actually a great way to kick off the show, and one of very few tonight who managed to use an instrument as a weapon of good...but I don't think she has a depth to survive. I will note but not discuss Danny Noriega, David Cook, Robbie-with-the-beanie-who-used-to-date-Britney-Spears, Jessica Somebody and Colton Berry (did we see him before?) Just to be brief!
Which brings us to Josiah. Like the judges, I am split on him. I can see that he is very, very talented in an off-beat way. Could potentially bring a new element to Idol that we need. But wait, we did that last season with Blake....hhmmm.....we'll have to see if the judges find him Top 24-worthy.
Interestingly we saw absolutely no screen time tonight for three audition favs: Kady Malloy, Chikeze Eze and Samantha Sidley. Does this mean there was no drama with them and they make it to the Top 24? Or not?
I must make a parting bow to Kayla, Angelica Puentas, and my other hometown girl Angela Martin. Ladies, hold your heads high....I hope this Idol experience opens new doors for you, you are terrific!
Top 24 revealed tomorrow...stay tuned!
Gina and Connie to host American Idol Extra
Music to my ears to hear that two of my favorite former Idols will be getting another shot in the spotlight. Announced last week, my hometown gal Gina Glocksen will be joined by Constantine as the new co-hosts on this hour-long weekly Idol wrap up on Fox Reality Network (check your local listings). Out as co-hosts are former top-11 idols Mikalah Gordon and Matt Rogers. Best in new endeavors to you both, buh-bye!
According to Wikipedia, American Idol Extra is "the show that picks up right where American Idol leaves off". The program features the first full-length interview with the most recent eliminated contestant and various behind-the-scenes material.
Watch for the premier on Thursday, March 17 at 10 PM ET. Congrats to you both for scoring such great post-Idol gigs!
Friday, February 8, 2008
What Not To Sing!
Okay, I found my calling, only a little too late, since somebody already thought of it....Season 4 of American Idol lit the fire under a coupla guys who decided to start a website called "What Not To Sing" and it's awesome, check it out here.
As they say on the website: "Quite honestly, we started Project WNTS because we grew tired of watching one promising contestant after another kill their once-in-a-lifetime opportunity by making inferior, foolish, or downright suicidal song choices. Many Idols are kids or not far removed, and very few have any real familiarity with the entertainment industry. Choosing the right material and arranging and presenting it to one's best advantage are skills that music professionals take years to hone.
WhatNotToSing.com was founded by three longtime American Idol fans with long and varied backgrounds in mathematics, music, and web design."
I can only hope that Season 7 contestants check out this website before making the all-important song choices this season.....I signed up to help review Season One performances, and you can, too! For info, check the website. Shout Out to Nick, my new BFF!
As they say on the website: "Quite honestly, we started Project WNTS because we grew tired of watching one promising contestant after another kill their once-in-a-lifetime opportunity by making inferior, foolish, or downright suicidal song choices. Many Idols are kids or not far removed, and very few have any real familiarity with the entertainment industry. Choosing the right material and arranging and presenting it to one's best advantage are skills that music professionals take years to hone.
WhatNotToSing.com was founded by three longtime American Idol fans with long and varied backgrounds in mathematics, music, and web design."
I can only hope that Season 7 contestants check out this website before making the all-important song choices this season.....I signed up to help review Season One performances, and you can, too! For info, check the website. Shout Out to Nick, my new BFF!
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
The Best and the Rest....Idol Leftovers
Ah, gotta love the compilation show of this-n-that to wrap up auditions and tide us over 'til Hollywood. While I am ready to move forward, tonight was bittersweet....the auditions are, well, kinda something special! Or not! It's all bundled up, and you just don't know what you'll get....I'm a sucker for the montage, the backstory, the long lines and sweeping aerial views, group sings, and geography and history lessons for each city.....all that disappears next week as we begin the Hollywood phase of Idol competition which (hopefully) rests more on vocal performance (with just a little glitz, glam and backstory).
Tonight for me was like the marshmallows in my kid's Lucky Charms....you know you shouldn't eat them because they aren't good for you, but they are truly the best thing in the bowl. We've been shown nearly 10 hours of audition footage and have pretty much seen all there is to see, or had we? Knowing this was the last of the auditions made them extra sweet. And the producers saved us some extra sweet bites tonight that we had not yet seen.
One of those was Chikezie Eze. I really liked him, and sadly don't remember him at all from last year. Maybe it's because I have a soft spot for Luther Vandross, and for smooth, velvet voices that take me somewhere lovely and romantic...but I liked him and I'm glad they put him through. Likewise, I liked Danny Noreiga even though our household was split on this one. He's got that Clay-Aiken-I-Don't-Sound-Like-I-Look thing going, and certainly confidence will get you everywhere in this game (unless you have too much). Plus, he's got Hollywood experience...I think that will matter.
The Three's Company shtick made me nostalgically chuckle only because I watched that show eons ago and had forgotten about it.....but it made me miss John Ritter...otherwise an eye candy filler. I swore under my breath that if they put any of Three's Company through to Hollywood I would start collecting my fingernails in a bag.
Just kidding!
Cordin and Joanne split the judges 2-1, and in both cases Simon was the one to say no, leaving it up to Paula and Randy. I don't know what's up with that. (I thought Cordin was way better than Amy Davis, the one who showed up -- basically -- in her underwear, describing herself as having come from the "lower than lower middle class"....and despite having mediocre vocals got the Golden Ticket anyhow with a thumbs up from Simon.)
I liked Joanne a lot and can't wait to hear more from her, couldn't understand Simon's no vote...I thought she was beautiful and poised and had a great voice, can't wait to see what comes next for her. Go Mandisa 2.0!
I will finally mention the Dolly Parton wanna-be (well, that is a stretch, since she didn't know that was what she should be until the judges suggested it). That was just plain comedy. Simon did NOT think she could sing, and when she came back in and pulled off "Islands in the Stream" like a semi-pro, even he couldn't ignore her...I was just distracted by her hair, were they extensions? Inquiring minds....anyway, she won't survive Hollywood but she'll have a fun time texting home about it.
Out of 7 cities nationwide and over 100,000 auditioners, we have 164 Idol hopefuls descending on Hollywood for another chance to impress and hopefully make it to the Top 24....I know there are dozens of spoilers out there, but I have resisted....THIS is American Idol!
Tonight for me was like the marshmallows in my kid's Lucky Charms....you know you shouldn't eat them because they aren't good for you, but they are truly the best thing in the bowl. We've been shown nearly 10 hours of audition footage and have pretty much seen all there is to see, or had we? Knowing this was the last of the auditions made them extra sweet. And the producers saved us some extra sweet bites tonight that we had not yet seen.
One of those was Chikezie Eze. I really liked him, and sadly don't remember him at all from last year. Maybe it's because I have a soft spot for Luther Vandross, and for smooth, velvet voices that take me somewhere lovely and romantic...but I liked him and I'm glad they put him through. Likewise, I liked Danny Noreiga even though our household was split on this one. He's got that Clay-Aiken-I-Don't-Sound-Like-I-Look thing going, and certainly confidence will get you everywhere in this game (unless you have too much). Plus, he's got Hollywood experience...I think that will matter.
The Three's Company shtick made me nostalgically chuckle only because I watched that show eons ago and had forgotten about it.....but it made me miss John Ritter...otherwise an eye candy filler. I swore under my breath that if they put any of Three's Company through to Hollywood I would start collecting my fingernails in a bag.
Just kidding!
Cordin and Joanne split the judges 2-1, and in both cases Simon was the one to say no, leaving it up to Paula and Randy. I don't know what's up with that. (I thought Cordin was way better than Amy Davis, the one who showed up -- basically -- in her underwear, describing herself as having come from the "lower than lower middle class"....and despite having mediocre vocals got the Golden Ticket anyhow with a thumbs up from Simon.)
I liked Joanne a lot and can't wait to hear more from her, couldn't understand Simon's no vote...I thought she was beautiful and poised and had a great voice, can't wait to see what comes next for her. Go Mandisa 2.0!
I will finally mention the Dolly Parton wanna-be (well, that is a stretch, since she didn't know that was what she should be until the judges suggested it). That was just plain comedy. Simon did NOT think she could sing, and when she came back in and pulled off "Islands in the Stream" like a semi-pro, even he couldn't ignore her...I was just distracted by her hair, were they extensions? Inquiring minds....anyway, she won't survive Hollywood but she'll have a fun time texting home about it.
Out of 7 cities nationwide and over 100,000 auditioners, we have 164 Idol hopefuls descending on Hollywood for another chance to impress and hopefully make it to the Top 24....I know there are dozens of spoilers out there, but I have resisted....THIS is American Idol!
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Ain't That a Georgia Peach...
Hotlanta! Wow, I've got great memories from that city...not Idol-related, mind you, but great nonetheless... anyhow, I'm amazed that the (more or less) same number of golden tickets were given out here than in the other Season 7 audition cities (20)...question to Fox: does someone actually keep track during auditions, to keep the number going to Hollywood from each city even? Cause I'd like to know...that seems a little strangely coincident. Maybe it always has been, and I hadn't noticed.
Anyhow, before I get into discussion of tonight, I have to amend something I wrote earlier. I was a big fan of Robbie from Miami, said he was Bo and Ace rolled into one.....with his cute lil' black beanie and tumbling curls.....well, I take that back. I read today that he used to date Britney Spears. Nufsaid.
Moving forward, tonight's auditions can be broken down into the usual three categories: those who actually can sing and should go to Hollywood, those who were given the Golden Ticket but under questionable circumstances, and those who were given the Hollywood OK that we really should not be seeing next week. We'll start with the third group!
Josh and Josiah. We started the hour meeting Josh, who looked the part, but unfortunately had "demonic eyes" that didn't go away even though he auditioned backwards (was that a first???) I don't know, I have to quote my better half on this one. Immediately after his audition, he announced (as if to center me) that "they have put worse people through and said 'no' to better people"... couldn't have summed it better myself.
And Josiah? Okay, Back Story of the Year on this one....BUT, c'mon....he is not Idol material. Yes, I feel for the guy, and as a mother, am programmed by nature to be concerned about his intake of leafy green vegetables, regular bathing and teethbrushing whilst living in his car....but he can't sing. Period.
Moving on to the "Auditioners in Question". We seem to have more auditions this season who are passed along despite possessing the vocals that, in the past, were required. (Sorry, but I think so.) In this category tonight were Amanda and Brooke. First of all, two-toned Biker Nurse Chick Amanda may be the "real deal" as Paula pronounced her, but she is no Chris Daughtry, and she will not survive Hollywood with her one trick pony (I mean Horse/Hog). Secondly, Miss Pageant (AKA Brooke) did really crack me up, and surprise me because she actually can sing better than most pageant singers I've been unfortunate enough to witness, HOWEVER, she will have to work mighty hard to convince me next week that she deserves a spot in the top 24.
So the two Golden Ticketeers tonight that impressed: Asia and Alex. I'm sure that if I Googled Asia I would find all kinds of things about how she is already a professional, has a record deal, etc....that seems to be the running theme for this season's auditions....but just going by what I saw tonight, the girl has "it", and not just because of her tremendously sad backstory....she has a million dollar smile and spirit to match an awesome voice. I'm going to watch her! Similarly, Alex's 93-year-old Great Grandma didn't know that her 16-year-old dearie would impress as much as she did... I really liked her, too. And kudos to Grandma for coming along for the ride!
I cannot write this post without a few more comments. Loved that Ryan's parents came out...makes him more real. OMG, that auditioner who was "two away" from Carrie in Season 4...kicking himself for not getting her number....now, that is torture he is living with! I want Ryan to shave. Favorite exchange of the night: Brooke (AKA Pageant) to Simon:"I love you!" Simon: "I know."
Verdict: A hundred million percent YES for tonight's audition show! Take me to Hollywood!
Anyhow, before I get into discussion of tonight, I have to amend something I wrote earlier. I was a big fan of Robbie from Miami, said he was Bo and Ace rolled into one.....with his cute lil' black beanie and tumbling curls.....well, I take that back. I read today that he used to date Britney Spears. Nufsaid.
Moving forward, tonight's auditions can be broken down into the usual three categories: those who actually can sing and should go to Hollywood, those who were given the Golden Ticket but under questionable circumstances, and those who were given the Hollywood OK that we really should not be seeing next week. We'll start with the third group!
Josh and Josiah. We started the hour meeting Josh, who looked the part, but unfortunately had "demonic eyes" that didn't go away even though he auditioned backwards (was that a first???) I don't know, I have to quote my better half on this one. Immediately after his audition, he announced (as if to center me) that "they have put worse people through and said 'no' to better people"... couldn't have summed it better myself.
And Josiah? Okay, Back Story of the Year on this one....BUT, c'mon....he is not Idol material. Yes, I feel for the guy, and as a mother, am programmed by nature to be concerned about his intake of leafy green vegetables, regular bathing and teethbrushing whilst living in his car....but he can't sing. Period.
Moving on to the "Auditioners in Question". We seem to have more auditions this season who are passed along despite possessing the vocals that, in the past, were required. (Sorry, but I think so.) In this category tonight were Amanda and Brooke. First of all, two-toned Biker Nurse Chick Amanda may be the "real deal" as Paula pronounced her, but she is no Chris Daughtry, and she will not survive Hollywood with her one trick pony (I mean Horse/Hog). Secondly, Miss Pageant (AKA Brooke) did really crack me up, and surprise me because she actually can sing better than most pageant singers I've been unfortunate enough to witness, HOWEVER, she will have to work mighty hard to convince me next week that she deserves a spot in the top 24.
So the two Golden Ticketeers tonight that impressed: Asia and Alex. I'm sure that if I Googled Asia I would find all kinds of things about how she is already a professional, has a record deal, etc....that seems to be the running theme for this season's auditions....but just going by what I saw tonight, the girl has "it", and not just because of her tremendously sad backstory....she has a million dollar smile and spirit to match an awesome voice. I'm going to watch her! Similarly, Alex's 93-year-old Great Grandma didn't know that her 16-year-old dearie would impress as much as she did... I really liked her, too. And kudos to Grandma for coming along for the ride!
I cannot write this post without a few more comments. Loved that Ryan's parents came out...makes him more real. OMG, that auditioner who was "two away" from Carrie in Season 4...kicking himself for not getting her number....now, that is torture he is living with! I want Ryan to shave. Favorite exchange of the night: Brooke (AKA Pageant) to Simon:"I love you!" Simon: "I know."
Verdict: A hundred million percent YES for tonight's audition show! Take me to Hollywood!
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