Final 3 boot off
So, I watched the boot off. I liked the song that Katherine did. As in previous Idols, I think they sing better when there is no pressure. I fell asleep through some of it. (Was it an hour long?)
Anyhow, now that Elliot is kicked off (and I'm creepily reminded how white trash he seems) I care even less who wins.
I think its funny that they had Clive Davis up there touting the success of the previous Idols. Reuben sold 2 million CDs? no way. I don't even know one song he did!
and... what ever happened to Tamyra Gray? I loved her. She was adorable.
9:12 PM
Final 3 - but I don't care
I watched it tonight. And I'm even signing on to blog. But I don't care. I didn't LOVE any of the songs. I didn't get blown away by Somewhere Over the Rainbow. I don't even like Springsteen and couldn't care less about the rest of them.
I don't have any ties to the remaining 3, my guess is that Taylor and Katherine have a fan base and Elliot will get kicked off. I'm a fan of the underdog, so I'm going with Elliot for the one I want to go through.
you guys?
No Way!
No way, no way, no way.
Well, I didn't really watch it cuz the in-laws are here and the phone was ringing. But I did see the recap video and Chris singing, so I can only assume he was booted. Boo. Did any of you vote???
I did... tho I have to admit, I figured everyone would vote for Chris anyway so I texted a vote for Elliot. Shame on me.
It looked like he was really upset. Unlike some of the other idols, he seemed much less gracious.
I still think he will do well. None of the other idols compare to him by a mile, but we all know that.
The competition is much less interesting to me now.
nite y'all.
L
Final 4 sings Elvis
Well, after listening to the first 4 songs, Elliot has done the best of the group. I actually said, "Wow". I loved it. I thought Taylor was ok, but not final 4-worthy, and Katherine was like all over the place. She concentrated more on her dancing and jumping around than her song and it sounded like she forgot the words. oh wait... apparently, she did. Chris was good, as usual and he picked my all time favorite Elvis song.
The second set of songs started better for Taylor, I think. He put a nice touch/spin to it for me. Chris picks A Little Less Conversation which is another of my most fave Elvis songs. I see in my head that guy from last season (?) with the curly hair who butchered it. Chris made it kinda sultry and sexy and then he rocked it out. It was a great rendition. Elliot picked a fun song for his second and I think he showed a nice, fun side. He did a good job, I'd say he was the best of the night overall. He'll probably be in the bottom two, but I hope Taylor is the one to go tomorrow. I agree with the judges he was the best of the night, Elliot has really been the only one that stepped it up to the level of the Final Four type performance. The others kind of relied on their natural 'goodness'. Katherine's final performance didn't bowl me over. It was just aight for me. LOL
Its funny, the judges have said, "see you in the finale" to each of them tonight. how much room is ther for the final 3? LOL
Idol 5
well, I still haven't watched last week's and won't be able to watch tonights so, ya'll just blog on...
in the mean time... here's my son:
Love Songs
Since Linda is in the hospital blog away!
The boot off
7 were left and I missed the first half of the show. But I made it for the actual kick off.
Ryan separated the groups into:
Kelly, Elliot and Katherine
Chris, Paris and Ace
that left Taylor on the sofa.
then Ryan did that thing I hate. He made Taylor choose which group he'd stand next to if he were safe. (His shirt was so tight that every single button was pulling).
It was a hard choice because there were good and bad in each group (well, popular and not so much in each group).
He did a fake out on Ryan but in the end Taylor went to stand by Kellie's group. Yep, he was right.
I'm shocked that Chris was in the bottom 3. I'm rooting for Paris to take off, but Ryan let her sit down. (and incidentally, didn't she look like like Dorothy from the Wiz?)
anyhow, Ace was booted. I'm not surprised, but I still wish it were Paris, or Kellie even. Oh well.
Chenita, good luck with your proceedure! Fla, hope you feel better. Miss you guys!
The Great American Songbook
I have all of these CDs, I love the series and I love the way Rod Stewart sings these songs, so I'm curious what the contestants will do.
The night started off with Chris singing What a Wonderful World. I think he has an amazing voice and is my pick for the overall winner, and he did not disappoint tonight. He's great.
This is totally Paris' genre. I think her voice was made for this type of singing. She sang Foolish Things really well. But her costume makes her look like a secretary. The look is too old for her.
Taylor came out with You Send me. While he was good, the song was a bit repetitive and was - as the judges say - safe. Except for the last 3 seconds, he really didn't show off his personality.
Elliot must be growing on me. He's still hard on the eyes, but I thought he did ok with It Had To Be You.
Kelly came out starting Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered and, unlike the judges, I think it suited her voice. However she just stood there like a statue and showed no personality at all. This is one of my faves that Rod Stewart does, so its hard for me to love another rendition. I agree with Simon, she started out really strong, but then just poofed out for me.
Ace surprised me with That's All. I thought he was really good. I didn't love the slicked back look, but I loved how he mixed up the song a bit. I don't really feel like anyone else really did that throughout their song (except maybe Chris did a bit - but that could have just been a byproduct of his voice). I disagree with the judges, I wouldn't want to hear him sing an entire song in falsetto. I think he knocks it out when he does that, but an entire song would grate on my last nerve.
Katherine blew me away. She sounded like she sang Someone To Watch Over Me her whole life. She came across sweet and sultry at the same time.
If I picked a bottom 2, it would be Taylor and Kelly. If I added a bottom 3, then I'd through Elliot in the mix.
Unfortunately, even though I'm ready to see Paris leave, she did well this week, so she's staying put for awhile.
Season 5 has some strong singers.
... and another one bites the dust
(I couldn't resist)
I couldn't imagine how they were gonna fill up an entire hour, but they sure do have a lot of fluff!
When they got to the bottom sofa, I was so hoping that Paris would go home. I'm done with her hair extensions, her excessive crying, and her one dimensional singing.
No such luck. Of the remaining 3, I felt that Ace should go, because he's been consistenly mediocre. While Bucky hasn't blown me away either, I thought he was one of the best of Tues night. Obviously, that leaves Elliot who I wanted to sit back down.
Ace even looked all night like he thought he was gonna be the one to go. Where Chicken Little got al the Long Island and Gramma votes, Ace must be pulling in the teen girls who are using all their parent's money texting a vote for him.
Anyway, he skated by again and we said goodbye to Bucky, who took it like a true Southern Gentleman.
At some point, I'm gonna set up blogs for the next few weeks, just in case, I pop out Baby Correia. Just Scroll down to the week you're watching. I'll catch up when I can. Besides Chenita won't be able to watch Idol NOR see the blog in a week anyway! :)
Top 8 sings Queen
I went into this show with a bit of curiosity but with a preconception that this was gonna be a bad, bad night. But overall, I think they were all good. Well none stood out as bad for me.
Bucky rocked out with Fat Bottomed Girls. I was surprised as heck and loved his rendition. I think he's improving.
Then Ace came out with We Will Rock You and, while there were some off-key notes, he wasn't horrible either. However, it felt a bit disrespectful that he kept wanting to change the arrangement when the band so clearly didn't want to. I didn't love his arrangement. It felt like 3 separate songs.
Kellie shocked the heck out of me with Bohemian Rhapsody. I thought she was entertaining, for the most part, she really sang the song well. She definitely broke out of her comfort zone and took on rock like a pro. Now, I know Juanita will cringe at her running up to Queen and hugging them (she's say it was plannned to make her stand out, blah blah blah) but that's just the southern way. Why just wave hello when you can hug? Also, I know that she'll also comment that the 'on paper' thing was just Kellie pretending to be stupid. I think she's just stupid. LOL
Chris sang some obscure song. I didn't love the song, but his voice stands alone. I thought that he would be the one guy to really take over this theme. I wish he'd done a more well known song. Oh well. And the judges said the same thing. LOL
Katherine sang some Highlander song. I didn't love this song either. Apparently the judges all thought she was the best of the night. It was hard to tell, cuz the song was kinda Broadway, and kinda lame. Her voice was nice - it seems to go off key a bit in some parts. But then again, our digital cable was also fluctuating, too.
Elliot sang Somebody To Love. I expected more from him. I thought it was a good song choice and I was looking forward to hear him tackle it. I was a bit disappointed. But, Juanita -- I really think they gave him a make-over! He looks a lot better!
Taylor sang Crazy Little Thing Called Love - I like him, but I didn't love his rendition of this song. When I heard that he'd changed his song to this one, my first thought was, "good choice!" it was ehhh for me.
Paris sang some song that sounded like a soundtrack for a James Bond movie. Of course, she had new hair extenstions. I say... pick a look, man. Anyhow, while the song is unknown to me, I really thought she did a good job.
Lets see.... my faves for the night: Bucky, Kellie and Chris -even tho I didn't know the song
my least favorites: Taylor, Elliot, and maybe (at the same time) Chris - cuz he shoulda picked a better song.
and one more thing... the reason I didn't blog much last week, was cuz as soon as Idol was over, I had to call Flavia and find out about her new condition. She looks adorable, by the way.
I'm ready for her to hang up the parade of never ending ponchos and get her boots re-heeled. But she apparently only wanted to buy capris maternity pants - as if she couldn't possibly wear full length jeans in the Spring and Summer! And one additional thing to make fun of her for... My other theory is that she's gonna keep wearing her boots until the rest of Manhattan is well into sandles. You know how she used to go to Bryant Park in the dead of Summer in long sleeves, black pants and boots with socks. That's our Fla!
Country Boot-Off
So that you guys don't beat me up, I'm half posting. I'll write more in the morning, but go ahead and blog away.
well, as I was watching and they separated the remaining 9 into 3 groups, I thought -- Juanita nailed it, its Bucky, Ace and Katherine. Then Lo and Behold, say it ain't so! Its Mandisa, Elliot and Paris.
Now, I'm torn, I'm sure Mandisa will sit down but of the remaining 2, I would prefer Paris to go, because she is more one dimensional and I'd love to see where Elliot will take it.
Then - surprise again - Paris sits down. and somehow, America kicks off Mandisa. I'd pegged her for one of the top 3! My guess is that America just didn't vote for her because they figured she would get enough backing and used their calls for the other, weaker singers.
Country nite
I'm gonna make a prediction here... Juanita's gonna hate this nite! LOL
Kenny Rogers is their 'tutor' for the show. And Taylor Hicks started us off with Take Me Home Country Roads. He changed it up, but only in strange places. I liked the original better. Plus he seemed to be straining his voice. Didn't love it. I woulda picked another song. There are tons of country songs and he picks one from 1970?
Mandisa looked sassy and coy as she sang Any Man of Mine. I think she did a great job. She picked a fun song and sang it adorably. Apparently, the judges completely disagreed with me. lol
Elliot sang If Tomorrow Never Comes. Color me crazy - ok, well, Chenita already does - but is Elliot looking better - less creepy?? I think he did a great job, too. I like the little changes he made to the song. It was sweet. I think Kenny Roger's advice was spot on.
Paris put away the hair extensions for the night. and Ryan even commented on it. She said that each hair style shows a different side of her. I think she needs to pick one friggin side. She sang How Do I Live Without You. that's a country song? Isn't that Celine Dion? Maybe she heard 'country' and thought well, Canada is another country. Or is it Toni Braxton? Maybe California's another country. who knows. Anyway, it was kinda forgettable for me.
Ace is singing I Wanna Cry. He may be crying himself off the stage tomorrow night. I have no clue what this song is. He's the weakest link. His voice is shaky in parts and he's not hitting the low, steady notes. As he holds up his hand to indicate 'call in for #5' I can't help but notice that he's got big ole hands.
Kelly's breasts are practically pouring out. She's singing Fancy - I don't know this song either. oh, I guess I DO know this song. She's good with spunky songs.
Right about now, Juanita's pretending that Ryan needs her so she can skip the rest of the night. LOL. Chenita's just gotten home and is using toothpicks to hold her eyes open. And Flavia went to sleep cuz she could care less about Country.
Chris is next. I can't wait to hear what he does! He has great control over his voice. And this song really shows that he doesn't have to only do the hard rock type songs. I think this is sexier than when he shouts and jumps all over the stage. I loved it even tho I didn't know the song. I literally COLed (Clapped out loud). I still think he should win.
Katherine I suppose the name of this song is Bringing Out the Elvis in Me. ??? I don't know it. It was ok, didn't bowl me over, but she's cute and fun.
did anyone notice the pianist looked like Clay Aiken? LOL
Bucky - is that a country song? I woulda thought he'd pick a more country song on the one night he could. Best I Ever Had -- isn't that a song by Vertical Horizon? I love the song and I think he did a good job. I liked his outfit - but whats up with the bazillion earrings?
I think the worse TONIGHT for me, were Ace, Taylor and Paris.
My favorites were Mandisa, Elliot, Chris
but tonight, its anyone's game.
21st Century boot off
I fell asleep and woke up to Lisa singing, so I surmised that she got booted. Then went back to sleep.
This morning I saw the Fox 5 recap.
Here is my theory, Idol isn't quite as interesting because -- of the top 10 -- they're all mostly good, can carry a tune better than anyone I know personally and none of them stand out as particularly annoying, obnoxious or otherwise negatively notable for us to really happily blast.
I mean how many nice things can you say about 10 people? I, personally, need an idol contestant I can rip apart.
Since they're all good, I can sorta root of one over the others but generally, I like this group.
At least when they have a bad day, they ALL have a bad day, so still, no one stands out.
Maybe someone oughta have an outfit fall off or lose a hairpiece next week and I'll perk up.
Lisa's gone. It was a good choice and America got it right.
21st Century
Which means songs from 2000 to 2006
Lisa started with Kelly Clarkson's Because of You. Her furrowed brow made her look angry. The judges hated it. I was waiting for Paula to say, but you look so beautiful.
Kelly P. followed with Suds in a Bucket. What? It sounded fine to me. Her voice was nice. I didn't know the song, but I'm all for country.
Ace did Drops of Jupiter. I love that song. He claimed it was going to show his voice off vocally. I thought he did a good job, but it wasn't a stretch or anything. I'm thinking Randy and Paula are in a bad mood. They're hating everything. Oh, I have to say, I hated his pulling on his hair when he sang the word 'hair'. eww. And Paula wants to jump his bones. She wants him to 'someday tell her the story of the scar' -- in bed!
Taylor Hicks came out in some strange leather jacket outfit. It didn't suit him. But he sang a song called Trouble by some person I don't know. And he's the best so far. And the best part is he didn't do any weird movements! whoo hoo. Paula said that it was nice to see him just stand and sing a song
As Mandisa was singing, they threw up Taylor Hicks' phone number. I was on the phone with Meredith when she started singing, so I have no idea what she's singing, but it sounds like shouting to me, and it started a bit dull for me. Not my favorite of hers and I like her alot.
Chris sang Creed's What If. Compared to his other songs, this one sounds like he's straining more to belt it out. And the look on his face during the 'what if' runs scared me! LOL Overall, I think he's great still but this was not my favorite. Mike is correct. Last week, Simon said that Chris was the only one who's stayed true and uncompromised and this week, he said he needs to reach beyond and do something different.
Katherine sang a Christina Agulera song. I'm surprised. Christina has a huge voice but I think Katherine pulled it off. I actually liked it. And for once tonight 2 out of 3 judges actually like it!
Bucky sings Real Good Man by Tim McGraw. I'm sure I don't know this one either. I like Bucky's get up. It suits him. The music played over his singing in parts. I wonder if that was intentional. ??? I thought he did a good job - of course I have no clue what its supposed to sound like.
Paris does a young song for one. She's singing Beyonce's Work it Out. I like her look this week. Its amazing how they can change a look with hair extensions! Although its annoying how she keeps swinging the fake hair around. I guess she did a good job, tho I kinda thought she screamed in parts. I don't know this song.
and we end the night with Elliot who sings I Don't Wanna Be. I like this song. He's changed it up a bit. I kinda like him the best so far of the night (even tho he's the last one. LOL) I like how he changed the song at first I wasn't sure how it was gonna go, but he kept with it. Does he usually have a goatee? I think it fits him... detracts from the ears and stuff. I also like his outfit.
I like Taylor, Elliot, and Katherine best tonight. But I also liked that Bucky went back to country.
And I think the show woulda been better without the judges tonight.
The 50s - Boot off
Since I watched both shows last night, and Juanita did a pretty thorough job of blogging, no need for me to.
But I will say, last season when Barry Manilow was on, was my favorite episode. I loved seeing how the contestants grew due to his tutoring. I'm really happy that he was back on again. Although, this year, the seemed to need less coaching so there was less of a dramatic difference.
I also loved how Ryan flew through the group and said, you're safe, you're safe, you're safe. Its much less tortourous for them (heh, heh, and us).
I'm really glad that America is getting it right this year. Melissa should have gone last week or this week and Kevin needed to go. The bottom 3 were on the money.
I disagree with Randy and Paula when they said that Oh Boy suited Bucky, I think Barry Manilow had it right when he said that the song was overly repetitive.
And, Juanita, I think Katherine's dress hugged her at her 'trouble spot' if she were pregnant and would have accentuated it. The rest of the dress was just a silky bag of mess - so my vote is NOT prego. And Yes, Kevin's nostrils are really distracting. Not that his singing is any better. Thank you for rallying your L.I. people together to NOT vote for him.
Eleven sing
I didn't watch it but saw the recap on Fox 5. Comment away.
PS-I thought Chenita must've heard 'Skated' as well, but let it go.
JUANITA's Blog (thank you)
Juanita said...
Last night's idol was actually a pretty show. I enjoyed almost all the performers. Oh, And I loved that Barry Manilow gave them suggestions to make the song work better for them.
Ok, Here's my blog based on my scattered memory. I don't know the exact order, I'm just going to wing it.
Mandisa- started the show off with a bang. She is absolutely beautiful and has an amazing voice.
Bucky - It was definitely a good song for him. I liked the raspiness of his voice in the chorus.
Paris - I didn't get to see her performance (Ryan is up and wants me to read him yet another bedtime story) I did get to see when she was working with Barry - she sounded good. Was she? What were the judges comment?
Taylor - Loved his haircut. He totally looks like George Clooney now- LOL. As for his performance, I agree that it wasn't his best vocal, but the man is an amazing entertainer. He'll be around to the end - I hope:)
Lisa - Unfortunately for Lisa, I think she will be in the bottom 3 again tonight. I was sooooo rooting for her to do well and I started to cringe when she performed "Why do fools fall in love". She wasn't horrendous, but she wasn't FABULOUS either.
Katherine - Ummmm. Did anyone notice the loose dress she decided to wear. I'm not implying the rumors are true, but she seemed to pick outfits that make you wonder. Onto her performance, I think she has an amazing voice and she did great. I did not like her choice of song, but nonetheless she did fantastic.
Chris - I am a hugh fan of Chris. I agree, it wasn't his best vocal, but the man is soooo talented. He will definitely fly into the top 3.
Kelly - Just so you know, I think her song choice was a good one. She performed it very well too. - So here goes my Kelly bashing..... I was listening to Z100 this morning and like me they all can't stand her. Initially they liked her, but now they feel she is playing up the naive act. (Did anyone get the hint that they purposely shut her mike off so she wouldn't be able to speak) And did you see the annoyance on Paula's face when Kelly started jumping around like a buffon after she performed -it wasn't shown on TV (purposely edited - I think so) but you can tell Paula is getting annoyed with her act too. Ok, I'll stop here cuz I can go on and on with kelly's annoyance.
Kevin - I can't stand looking at him when he sings. All I see is Chicken Little and what's the deal with his nostrils. Why are they so huge and his lips are pencil thin. Ugh, Please Let him go tonight. BTW - The Long Island station had a party promoting a "Vote for Kevin" last night, so I have a feeling he's not going anywhere tonight.
Ace - Ace did a descent job. Can't remember the song, but I know he was going for a jazzy version. I think if he didn't have the falsetto at the end it was just a medicore performance.
My bottom 3 tonight are Lisa, Bucky and hopefully Kevin, but it will probably be Ace.Did I get everybody?
Well, Lin I hope you give me credit for blogging this time.
Yes, Mere I did see skeevy Constantine in the audience. Ewwww
Gossip: Ryan Seacrest and Terri Hatcher is said to be dating. I thought Ryan was gay? And if you haven't heard already Simon's top 3 picks are Taylor, Chris and Kelly.
Eleven left
Have I mentioned how much I love fast forward? :)
While I wasn't surprised (nor unhappy) about the final results, I was surprised that Chicken Little was safe from the bottom 3. I mean really. Laurie's step mother has GOT to stop voting!Her and all the Grammas.
Now on to my criticisms. These 12 were being serenaded by STEVIE WONDER. They had front row seats! Elliot was all excited and it looked like he could barely contain himself then they panned over to Melissa who looked like, big whoop - who's getting kicked off?
Melissa was my first choice of bootages. The fact that she seemed so cavalier about missing the lyrics in front of a musical ICON really rubbed me the wrong way.
Anyhow, I'd forgotten about the goofy skits. This one wasn't so bad. I loved that they highlighted Chris.
PS - I love just one night and 15 mins of Idol. I was having a hard time with the multi-day blogging.
I'm also wondering how much I'll keep up with this, about -- oh -- 6 weeks from now, when Idol is on for another 10 or 11 weeks. Well, we'll see.
Songs from Stevie Wonder
This is what Meredith was waiting for: all the guys and girls together. Tee hee, did you guys see Paris slip? heh heh heh (yeah, I'm sick)
Tonight's genre is Stevie Wonder. I wonder how Bucky and Chris will do with this theme? I imagine Chris does well not matter what genre.
I thought it was cute how all the kids were brought to tears. That was sweet.
Ace was first with Do, I do. During his interview, he pauses, and cleans out his eye gunk, then checks it out on his finger. Gross. I agree with whoever said it (Mere? Chenita?) Ace looks better with his hat. I thought he came out screaming the song a bit. It wasn't his best performance for me, but he did a good job with the part where he does the fast runs.
Kellie Pickler is so nieve. Stevie Wonder said he thought she was from England and she's all like "REally?" Blame it on the Sun with a Southern twist. Hmmm. Its one of Stevie Wonder's more obscure songs. Maybe that was a good choice for her, that way no one will compare her twangy singing to the way he does it. I think she dressed a bit old for her tonight. Her voice was nice. smooth. Kinda a boring performance for me, tho. I agree with Paula for once, it was safe. but why does she always have to say, "but you look gorgeous" when she criticizes people? just critique and leave it be!
Elliot is next with Knocks Me off My Feet. I can't wait for the makeover episode. I still have a hard time looking at him when he sings. But I like his rendition of this song. If it wasn't for Romane I probably wouldn't have heard of half of these songs, but I copied his 4 CD set and was just playing it today! LOL I don't think it showed a ton of range, but he sang it well.
Mandisa looks pretty (oh, geeze, I sound like Paula). Ryan took her shoes off for her... man she's got some big ole shoes! Don't You Worry `Bout a Thing should suit her well, lets see. She gave it a good twist to show off her range. I like that she changed it up a bit, cuz it coulda been boring. I think she has done the best so far.
Bucky is up next singing Superstition. Oh my, hair down and all! LOL. I like the twist he brought to this so far - but then he continued and it was kinda more of the same, but I think he's ending stronger. He's another one that I want to see after the makeover episode.
Melissa is singing Lately. Is she still singing the wrong lyrics? She's kinda butchering the song. I liked it better when she got off the stool. Oh-- she DID forget the lyrics. Thats the first time for a top 12. buh-bye, `lissa.
Lisa sings Signed Sealed Delivered. She is adorable but I wasn't wowed by the performance. She is a great voice and great stage presence. but it wasn't my fave of the nite or my fave of her songs.
Kevin is up next with Part Time Lover... as if he knew what anything in the song was really about. He's gotta be a virgin! All you Grammas out there, quit voting! This one, I can't watch OR listen to. It was awful. He was like a characature of an American Idol! Thank God it ended.
Katherine sings Until You Come Back To Me in a really ugly dress. As for her performance, I went through not liking it and really liking it at the same time. She is a beautiful girl and a real pleasure to watch. Generally I really like her. Parts she seemed to be screaming but then she mixed the song up and really made it cool. I'm fencing it.
Taylor - I think this theme is right up his alley. He's gonna sing Livin' for the City. I enjoyed his performance. Its much easier to watch him sing when he just walks around and doesn't jerk his body like an epileptic. This is his genre and I think he did well.
Paris picked a song that I thought was a bit old, to me. The judges loved her. I don't really think I was paying that much attention to it, cuz it was time to check my blood. However, in the post song interview, it was annoying that she was singing her responses.
Chris ties up the show with Higher Ground. The background music is too loud, you can't really hear his voice. I think hes amazing. Every song he sings sounds like it should already be on the radio. This probably wasn't my favorite of his performances, but I think it was one of the best of the night. Not lovin the funky sideburns.
The guys
Well, it appears that Juanita let us all down with the women. I still haven't watched it so I have nothing to say, but I'll pop backward and comment another day.
Anyway, the night started with Gedeon. OMG, how annoying is his speech pattern? How do the judges (well, at least Simon) not comment on that? He sang When a Man Loves a Woman. I wasn't impressed. Paula, however says that he's what this competition needs. uh... no he's not. Please go home.
Chris sang something called Broken (tho Mere will probably correct me with the real name of the song lol). I don't know it and I'm not a huge fan of the song, but his voice was great. What else do I say? I love him.
Kevin- oh my, Kevin as a rapper? I don't think so. No thanks. Anyhow, he sang the opposite, Starry Starry Night. His voice was really shaky - and I could look straight up his flared nostrils at the end of the song .. ewwwww. I agree with Simon, he's like a child singing.
Bucky was next with some country song I don't know. I predict that Juanita hated it. lol, I like the quality of his voice - its a bit raspy and, again this week, surprised me. He has a cool, casual manner and doesn't 'over act' up there like some of the other contestants.
Wilma Carr (lol - I slay me with my own joke LOL) -Before I even hear him sing, I am ready to see him go. And when he sings, I'm not disappointed. Yet, Paula returned to fantasyland and said she 'loved' him. She's on drugs.
Taylor sings Micheal McDonald's Takin it to the Street. The song starts with "you don't know me but I'm your brother..." and he looks just like Micheal McDonalds younger brother to me. LOL. Again - like his singing better if I don't watch him. Simon cracked me up when he said that Taylor single-handedly killed the video music industry.
Elliot sang Heaven. I liked his take on the song. I thought he was good.
and they ended the night with Ace singing a Micheal Jackson song. oh my. And then he sings. Wow, he showed sooo much range. I did not expect to like him the best of the night, but I really did. If they got a prize for every week, I'd say he won this week for me.
Guest Blogger: Juanita
Since Meredith and I are off to see the Odd Couple, we won't be viewing the chicks. Juanita, its all up to you.....
Thurs, 3/8/06
Well, it looks like Juanita disappointed us with her non-blogging.
Paris started the night with Conga. I didn't like it. I like her voice and thought she coulda done better. But her dancing was cute. I DO forget she is 17 or whatever.
Lisa - wow - how multitalented can she be? Electric guitar, too? She looks so pretty tonight with her hair straightened. I am reminded every week why I like her. She is like this little powerful kid that just is so poised and together. I didn't love the song, but I love her voice. I want to see her go through. For once I agree with everything Paula said, she seems like a seasoned performer, bad choice of song, but we love her.
Melissa - where is she from? She seems so Long Isand (no offense, J). She isn't one of my favorites, but I wouldn't mind seeing how she takes it in the competition. I felt like she was screaming the song. And I didn't care for her weird hairdo - and her makeup was kinda scary. BTW she sang Heart - What About Love. heh heh heh - Simon said the same thing I just did. LOL
Kinnick - what is with her outfit? And her lips are freaking me out. If she and Gedeon married, their kids would be all mouth. I was not impressed with her performance. I heard her voice crack or something a couple of times. To Chenita's point, Paula said she "found her style tonight and it looked good on her". Well she found her style - but we don't care.
Katharine has a very pretty face. And she sang the song really well. Especially after listening to Kinnick. Her dancing is really cute, too. Her eyes really light up when she is singing. I liked her the best so far.
ok, as she's all excited, she's pumping up the mic... and with the quick motion blur, it kinda looked like a vibrator. (that's just my opinion)
Ayla looked like she was having a blast out there. She definitely found her confidence. Now, everyone in the office said she was horrible in the Idol Chatter around the Kitchen, so I guess I was expecting her to be really, really bad. Given that, I was surprised. I thought she was good.
Mandisa sings Chaka Khan, I'm Every Woman. She was made to sing this song. It was a terrific choice for her. I think it was a power song for her. The judges loved her.
Kellie Pickler sang a Melissa Ethridge song. I expected a sweet song, but she came out all smoky and sexy. I'd prefer to hear the song in a lower key, but she looked hot. There were parts where she sang the song higher than her voice was able to take it. She gave a great performance, though. It was fun to watch.
I'm letting the minx and saLmon comments slide.
Mandisa and Katharine were my favorites of the night.
Kinnick and Melissa would be my picks for booting.
Top 20 Boot off
Well, I wasn't going to do a true blog, but I am sooo happy I had to! Whoo hoo! Meredith, if you peeked, then you'll know who got kicked off first. That moppy-headed loud mouth, Brenna. Now I can watch without being annoyed.
Now for my comments: I didn't like the group song as much as last week. Maybe because it focused on the women and the men are stronger.
I was also happy to see the bottom three were her, Heather and Kinnick. I coulda swept them all off. Chenita, now that you've pointed it out, Kinnick came on with yet another completely different type of outfit. The hat was a good choice cuz it makes her forehead less huge, but really accentuates her nose.
Chenita, you're right on with Elliot's ears! Its the ears, the haircut, the teeth. He needs a complete overhaul.
I'm so surprised that Will was not in the bottom three. But Sway, Dave and Kevin were.
Dave got kicked off first and I'm not sorry to see him go. Is THIS the guy you guys keep calling him young Jordan?
Then we said good-bye to Sway. I would have liked to see how he did with the genres. I really liked his Earth, Wind and Fire song the first week. Oh well.
I'm still just pleased as punch that Brenna's gone!
Top 20 - Boys
I was busy watching Deal or No Deal so I caught Idol a bit late and fast forwarded over all those recaps. Yay for FF!
Taylor opened up for the men with Easy by the Commodores. I think he's got a great voice. He changed the song up a bit but it was good. Of course, I didn't watch him much, cuz I just can't. None of the judges liked it- or the song choice. But I thought it was good.
on a side note... what the heck does Mandisa have on?
Elliot is singing some Moody song. Huh? I'm pretty sure I ain't never heard this song before. He said he was confident about song choice. Hmmm. We'll be the judge of that! LOL. oh, it appears I HAVE heard this song before. It doesn't suit him - lookswise. But his voice is very adaptable. I think he can carry it off. Ok, the pointing at his eye when he sang 'do you really see' is a bit corny. I'd prefer a more current song. I agree with Simon. A different song would have really nailed it for him. If I were to take the time to vote. I'd call in for him.
Ace has a crooked smile and in profile, he's got a pretty large nose. You know what that means, ladies! LOL. The song is starting slow for me, Body and Soul. And Simon looks bored as he's singing. Unlike some of the other guys, he's much better to listen to while you're watching him. When I looked away, it wasn't as good to me. PS he could use some of that CA sunshine.
eckkk - when Ace threw his hat, that damned Brenna just about tackled the girl next to her to grab it. Pig.
This guy, Gedeon, has a smile kinda like Steve Harvey, except that Steve Harvey's head is larger so it fits. This guy's all mouth. Its rather scary. I don't know this song. Why are they all picking obscure songs this round? I thought his voice was good. He started slow or something but he got better as the song progressed. Wow, he's 17?? LOL Simon's comments crack me up. "he's a funny little thing". LOL LOL
LOL, Ryan's body slam on Kevin Covais nearly knocked the kid down. That really made me laugh. LOL LOL. Oh my, he thinks he's a sex symbol. He sings I heard it on the grapevine. He just doesn't LOOK like superstar material. He still looks like someone's kid brother. But his voice was good and solid. I have to disagree with Simon, I don't think he's so bad that I'd turn off the radio. Its not like his voice is like that Vonage commercial. ooh hoo, ooh hoo hoo
Sway is up next. He singing a song I love: Overjoyed by Stevie. I can't wait to see what he does with it. I think he started a bit shaky. His back and forth hand motions are annoying me. I want to tie his arms to his sides. Overall, I was disappointed. I loved him last week. He keeps picking songs I really like, but I think there was only a little bit of the song that I thought were good. The rest was a bit pitchy - as Randy says. For once I agree with Paula. He seemed disconnected, at one point it was like he was looking off into the distance rather than concentrating on his song.
You can tell from his face that he is really upset with himself. awwww
Will is up next. He looks a bit goody-too-shoes. He's gonna sing Lady by Kenny Rogers. I like this song, but I think his voice is too high to pull it off. We'll see. Oh my, his big moment is meeting Justin Guarini??? LOL LOL LOL Anyhow, he's singing now. His voice is ok, but he's over enuciating. And he stood ramrod straight for the first part of the song. Move. He's actually not that bad. I just don't like his look. And it was just a 'good' performance. With this group of 24, I think everyone has to be really good.
Bucky's up next. Now let me clarify from last week, I didn't date a guy who sounded like he speaks, I dated a guy who looked like him. His interview, I suppose, was supposed to play off of Kellies, but he didn't pull it off. He sang Thunder Road by Garth. He continues to surprise me. He was really good. The song really suited him. And then he tried the smouldering eyes on the cameras thing. He's no Ace, but he was good. He was competition good. I'd call in for him, if I weren't so lazy.
David Radford is up next. His car phone cord/belt story was lame. Lol. I love the song he chose. His performance this week beat last weeks by a bazillion miles. I hated last week. He's smiling less with this song, which is good. I'm curious how he takes the weekly genres with this crooning.
Chris is doing a song by Fuel - Hostage. I'm pretty sure I don't know it. I love his voice quality. I think he has a recording voice. He's my favorite from the auditions because he's different and he has an amazing voice. He's energetic when he sings. He's not for everyone, but I think he's great. Randy obviously agrees with me. wow... all of the judges agrees. If I weren't so lazy, I'd vote for him twice! LOL
So who'd I boot? well, it depends on if I choose based on tonight or cumulatively. Will and probably Kevin cumulatively. Based on tonight alone: Sway and Will
Top 20 - The Girls
So, I've become such a slave to the DVR that watching an entire show - with commercials - is like torture to me. So I've devised workarounds. I'm watching Show 1 until commercial then moving to Show 2, until commercial, then back again. Its wonderful! LOL
Anyway, first up is Catherine (the girl that Mike's friends know). She (as I've said before) looks like a prettier Katie Holmes. She chose a Stevie Wonder song that I don't recognize. She has a lovely voice, but the song choice was kinda lame. But she was very gracious in the way she accepted her criticisms, and I have a lot of respect for that.
Then came Kinnick Skye, who sang a Gretchen Wilson song. (Who?) I wish Mike had never said that comment about her looking like she used to be a man, cuz now, that's all that I can think of. She isn't cute, her voice isn't bowling me over. She can go. Randy enjoyed her entertainment... not so much for me. hmmm Simon says she reminds him of a theme park entertainer -- I think I agree. And... that cowboy hat really accentuates her gigantic forehead. Yikes.
16 year old Lisa Tucker, in her interview explained that she was in the Lion King as a child. That must've been what gave her the composure that she has. She is very mature for her age. I think I liked her better than Randy did. I didn't really know the song, although the chorus was familiar. I think she is adorable, though.
Melissa McGhee sings Reba. Her voice sounds older than she is, too. Perhaps its the raspiness. But its really distracting that they keep panning back and forth to the back-up singers. Stay put, camera guys! And I agree with Simon again... I don't think I'm connecting with her. But I did like her singing this song.
ok - not that you guys need to know this, but my alternating show thing is bugging Mike, so, thank God I've got room to fast forward.
Heather Cox - the American Idol Stalker. Apparently, the Itas know this label. I don't. Was it self imposed? Is it a gimmick to get her noticed? I don't get it. She chose Hero from Mariah Carey. That's an ambitious song. Something about her bothers me. I don't know what. She didn't butcher the song, surprisingly, but it also didn't bowl me over. And the fact that she keeps responding when Paula's talking is annoying me. Maybe its being in the third trimester, but enough with the judges bickering.
Oh God, Brenna is next. and Oh My, she's gonna sing Last Dance. She's standing on the stage like a truck driver posing like a woman. And... what's she doing to the song? Please kick her off. Why, oh, Why isn't there a number to call if you want to boot someone off? America, please vote for everyone BUT her! Her fake pout is annoying too. wait... most of her is annoying. I soooo agree with Simon. The entire performance was poor.
Paris is up next. She's really young, too, right? The Wind Beneath My Wings is one of my favorite songs. I can picture her doing a good job with this song. It started out a bit safe and boring but she brought it out with a strong finish. Her Minnie Mouse voice cracks me up when she speaks.
Ayla is taking on an ambitious CelineDion song. I'm not feelin' it. I could see her or the blond go - aside from Brenna, that is. I might have nodded off. Apparently the judges liked her. Ahhh - maybe Simon pinpointed it for me -- she's a bit mechanical.
Kellie - who I like alot and found her interview adorable! She broke out in a Bonnie Raitt song... another one of my favorite songs. It was good. Maybe I'm just tired. It was good, but I thought she could have taken it further.
and finally - Mandisa. She's gonna sing Cry by Faith Hill. Hate the muffin-top hair do. The tendrils look like skinny little snakes. And... I don't know this song. But her voice is pretty amazing. I wish I knew this song.
Overall, the women were kinda disappointing me. I think that I expected more or better from all of them.
My picks for booting are Brenna (please, please, please) and possibly Heather or Ayla.
top 24 - first boot-off
Its late and I had a reality TV overload since it was the final dance-off for Dancing with the Stars and I had to watch in case I needed to vote. So, ladies, the floor is yours.
The first results show of the pre-lims... shocked, expected, should it have been someone else? Were they kind or cruel this year? What about the group song? Anyone else notice that only 3 people got solo songs?
State your opinions... I'll chime in later.
The Men ..er boys
first of all... LOVE watching TV with the DVR. no commercials. ahhhhh
I'm Yolanda Vega and the first boy up is...
Patrick Hall - Oh I remember him from the 2nd round. I liked him. He's singing Come to My Window, its strange hearing a guy sing an Ethridge song. I mean she is so distinct. Not so impressed so far, but maybe he will pick it up. Its hard being first. Poor guy, but it wasn't great to me. And what's up with his 'friend' with the humongous lips??? yikes.
David Radford - the crooner guy. Is this all he's gonna do? I can't imagine how he'll break out when they do themes. He sang Crazy Little Thing Called Love -- eww he does this weird twitching thing on his face. Not a fan of that. LOL he looks exactly like his mom. lol. ooh, Simon's comment was 'spot on' - thats what I didn't like... he seemed to be making fun of his own singing. yeah. thats it!
I don't remember this next guy Bucky Covington - and he's singing some Skynard song that I'm sure I don't know: Simple Man. I like the raspy-ness of his voice. I could see him as a Southern Rocker. I don't know the song so I don't know if he did it well or not, but I liked it. I don't like his speaking voice... its all slurry and mumbly. And to boot, he looks like a rougher, blonder version of a guy I dated for entirely too long.
Will Makar. LOL We thought he said my name is Wilma Carr. bahahahaha. Anyway back to the critique. He's singing Jackson's I Want You Back. Man, so far, I'm not that impressed with the men. I mean, they're much more dynamic than the people in years past, personality-wise, but the singing hasn't bowled me over. I'm afraid I agree with Simon, again. He was fun to watch but he wasn't a great singer.
Jose Penela -- apparently they call him Sway. ooh he's singing Reasons by EW&F. WOW - for me, he knocked it out of the park. DEFINITELY the best guy so far. Far superior to the others. I don't really remember much about him from before, but I sooo disagree with Simon. Wonder if he'll retract when he watches it on TV.
Chris Daughtry - I really liked his alternative twist to things in the previous auditions. He's singing one of those 80's songs Wanted Dead or Alive. I think its one of Mike's bands LOL. I'm surprised. Even though I'd liked him all along, I'm surprised how good he is tonight. I'd say he's my 2nd fave of the night. Finally the men are kickin' in. I hope to see him through to the end.
Next up is the little mousey guy, Kevin Covais, will sing yet another song I don't know, One Last Cry by Brian McKnight. Oh wait, I actually know this one. I think I will like this better when he matures in a few more years. It wasn't horrible, but its like someone's really good little brother singing for us rather than a pre-professional on a stage. But I will say he's much better than the first 4 guys.
Gideon McKinney - he's kinda creepy looking when he smiles. Oh, I think I liked his look better in the earlier auditions - all the extra hair is too much for me. Oh my, he's gonna sing Shout. And he talks like a preacher, over enunciating every syllable like he's delivering a sermon from the pulpit. I'm pleasantly surprised. I thought, what a stupid song choice. But he's pulling it off. Him and his strange look. It works for him. unexpected.
LOL ok Simon said the same thing about his smile!!! lol lol lol
This Elliot guy looks alot like a trashier version of the alternative guy who sang earlier. I thought he said my name is Elliot Yummy. ::snicker:::: its Elliot Yamin. He's singing Stevie Wonder's, If You Really Love Me. The singing is better if I don't watch the TV, so I'm gonna have to watch Mike typing instead of the screen. I like his voice, its really good, but I can't look at him. He's kinda crackhead looking. wow Simon just proclaimed him the best out of 5 seasons. (hey, is that a hickey on his neck?)
Bobby Bennett. He looks retarded from the auditions. I don't remember him at all. At All! Oh my, he's gonna sing Copacabana. You gotta be kidding! I can't watch him either. His wild gesticulating is very distracting -- that and the smarmy look on his face with all the winking. It was a performance all right.
Ace Young looks like a soap star or some hottie actor that Chenita would be chasing through a bar a la Scott Speedman from Felicity or something. LOL. He's doing George Michael's Father Figure. I don't picture him singing that song, I don't know if its ever a good idea to go public with a song you've never done before. But, wow. He's going through. He's the only cute guy in the competition AND he's got a good voice, he nailed that song. And he's got good stage presence - he's all making eyes at the camera and stuff.
and finally...
Taylor Hicks the grey haired man who wobbles around like Ray Charles. He's gonna do Levon from Elton John. I wonder if he's gonna wobble around. He's another one that I like to listen to without looking at. I think he'll pass on through as well. But he does move like a blind man.
Hmmm. now the hard part. If I were to kick off 2 guys, I'd have to say guys #2, 4 or 10. But I'd like to see where #2 takes it, so I'm going with 4 and 10, but 2 could be the following week's kick off easily.
nite, ladies :)
2006 American Idol 5 - The Women
Mandeka (did I get this name right?) this would not be complete without me saying… What were they thinking when they named her??? That aside, she has an awesome voice, I agree, I heard some off notes, but her spunk and cute personality – as well as the rest of the song -made up for it. Her song was Heart. And she gave it soul.
Kelly Pickler – she is adorable, she reminds me of the blond chick that won last year (I forget her name – pregnancy brain). And she is very likable. She sang some Martina McBride song that I don’t know, but I thought she did it well.
Becky O’Donohue – sang Because the Night. It was just aight for me. She sang from the back of her throat and it was kinda creepy. But she is stunning!
Ayla Brown sang some Mulan song. When they said she was gonna sing a Christina Aguilera song, I was like… whoa. But she made it softer and it was good. Mike and I were both impressed. And, look at that, the judges agreed. She’s from Mass. and Mike is rooting for her
Paris Bennet is very cute and very mature for a 17 year old. I liked her song, but with all of Randy’s glowing about her, I expected more. And I didn’t care for all that bouncing. All the same, she is cute and has a very cute personality. Its funny, she's got a speaking voice like Minnie Mouse and sings like a powerhouse.
Stevie Scott – the opera singer. Well, I agree with Randy and Simon, I kinda wandered off mentally. She definitely has a well trained voice, you can totally tell that, but it wasn’t an exciting or interesting voice.
Before she even sings, Brenna Gethers is annoying. I don’t like her personality. Its way too brassy. She wants to show America her softer side so she chose You Are the Sunshine of my Life. Ok, I know I already don’t like her, but I looked away and just listened. And its like she didn’t finish any of the phrases, they all trailed off. She is not taking criticism well and she is way too snarky. Enough of her. Please go away.
Heather Cox - I don't remember her at all. I don't think they gave her much air time during all the preliminary shows. She sang something recorded by some other past Idol winner. I don't know it. She is really beautiful. But the singing was just ok. Is it cuz I didn't know the song? Either way, with the lack of TV coverage, she may not go through because no one's gotten to know her.
Melissa McGhee - She also got no prior airtime. Oh wait... maybe its cuz she auditioned in Denver and we missed that show. Even tho Chenita yelled at me saying, "DENVER! you have to watch that one. Thats where I want to live one day!" I don't know this Faith Hill song. She was good and bad in parts but I think she finished strong. wow, apparently, according to Paula this was a very, very popular song. Go figure. OK, I was right to begin with, she did get no airtime previously.
Lisa Tucker - and I was wrong. I guess we DID watch the Denver show - cuz I remember this girl. Tonight, she sang a Billlie Holiday song that I also didn't know, but she was strong and sulty - especially for a 16 year old. I could see her on Broadway. She is adorable. Wow, she looks just like Mom. They could be sisters.
Kinnick Sky - hmmm - another strange name. I love this song that she picked. I'm not loving the evening gown. I couldn't really hear it that well, as Mike decided to start shredding the mail. LOL. But the judges apparently didn't love it. LOL Mike just said that she looks like she used to be a man. bahahahaha LOL Lol
Katherine McPhee - Mike's friend knows her, we got these emails to support her today. But I remember liking her from the auditions. She looks like a prettier Katie Holmes. She was very sultry, too. I liked her voice.
Oh, hey... just watched the recap... the first girls name was Mandisa. Still bad.
If I were to make a prediction on who gets booted, I'd lean toward the two girls that got no prior airtime to go. But I REALLY want that obnoxious Brenna girl to go. I mean, she's the negativeNY stereotype that people think of when they think of girls from NY, loud, pushy, doesn't care what people think, and so on. Well, at least those arguementative boy twins are gone - they got on my last nerve.
Here is one of my overall observations: all of the past Idol winners (and I count Clay rather than Reuben because he's fallen off the map) have been from the South. Go South!
The End of the Line
Well, its all over. The singing, the judging, the voting... the day after blogging. What will we do now? :)
Well tonight was a 2-hour show with plenty of lame skits and filler fluff to stretch out the show for the almighty advertising dollar. I wonder if the producers are bummed that they went into a sponsor agreement with coke, cingular and ford now? I mean a 2 minute spot on Idol could pull more than the superbowl. Not everyone is a sports fan but who doesn't like music?
Anyway, on to the show...
All of the other top 12 came out singing. I'd forgotten how bad this group is at the group songs. This was the strongest group of individuals, but they could not harmonize or even compliment each other. The coaches needed to work with them more to mesh their sound. They came out in coordinating white bottoms with Constantine in some colorful jacket and a white shirt that made him stand out from the rest. I'd forgetting half of those people. But first... what did Anwar do to his hair? If he's going for the Lenny Kravitz look, it didn't work for him. OOh and look, there's the sausage. LOL. Awww and Nikko. Porky, Anthony (thought we finally got rid of him!), Lindsey Cardinale - who was a faint memory, Nadia and who could forget Mikala (who's gone blonde), and sweet, perky Vonzelle.
I wonder if Mikala changed her hair to get away from the Nanny references?
The came out singing and...
OUCH the song was bad. B-A-D bad. It was a medley of 60's songs. I liked seeing Scott do the falsetto Barbara Ann. Mikala and Lindsey didn't sound good together at all. and when Lindsey belted 'in my room' out, -- oh no.. that was bad. Nadia and Vonzelle sound good together. And I have to say, Anthony's solo of Surfer Girl was pretty good. Hearing Nikko sing reminded me that I thought he got booted way too early. and I LOVED Constantine's rendition of "I Get Around". I am sooo not a Beach Boys fan, but I would love to hear him do that whole song, loved the sound.
They brought back former contestants to do the interviews, etc. Mikala was outside the theatre. She annoyed Meredith to no end, but I like her still (not as a singer - but her silliness is fun to me). Matt (the linebacker from last season) was at Carrie's hometown and Layota (who should have won last season) was in Bo's hometown. Matt was adorable, Latoya was over the top, though cute. But who really cares? Just get to the singing and results! But that's not to be. No, no... we have an hour+ of bad skits first. ugh.
They also showed the auditions (good and bad) and after audition interviews, the announcements of who was going to Hollywood. The thing that cracked me up was that they showed one bad audition of a large girl singing the National Anthem, As she is on screen, the screen splits and she walks out... singing in all her gussied up splendor. It was horrible. She was like a young, black Roseanne. I'm IMing with Meredith and she typed to me, "why the hell not"? I could picture her throwing her arms up in the air saying that. I think Mike & I laughed for 5 minutes at that comment.
Bo and Carrie sing again. Bo sang Vehicle (again?) It was his strongest song (aside from the a capella - but that wasn't high energy enough for tonight's finale) but he JUST sang it last night. He's done 24 other songs, hasn't he?
What will Carrie sing? I hope its Sin Wagon, she did that one really cute. Oh, its Angels Brought Me Here -- that original song that I didn't love from yesterday. yeah. LOL Well, she was tons better than last night. Still sounded like she was screaming, though.
After interminable bad skits, they paired Bo and Carrie to "Up Where We Belong". I always wished they'd done that with Kelly and Tamyra (I know, she came third, but she was tons better than Justin). Anyhow, this is a good duet for them. They look cute and sing well together. Their voices compliment each other. To top it off, they gave both Bo and Carrie a new car. They were both so cute, they were both thrilled - it was adorable.
Carrie started off the singing with a guy from Rascal Flatts ( I assume they are a band, it could be the name of that one guy - who knows) and I loved it. They sing well together. They should have shown us 1.5 hours of this and a half hour of recap, rather than 30 minutes of this and the rest filled with bad skits.
Anthony & Anwar came out to Kenny G, blowing the horn to "I Believe I Can Fly". Their voices are good together. It was a solid song.
Constantine, Jessica and Nadia came out rockin' it to Kenny Wayne Sheppard's guitar jammin of Aerosmith's "Walk This Way" . They were really good and Nadia looked HOT. They were having fun and jammin'. It was cool. Now... I have to comment on the sausage. For real??? That ourfit on national television with her gut hanging over her belt is like me in a two piece bathing suit going to work. oh no she didn't!
NIkko and Scott were amazing with George Benson to "On Broadway". It was great. They did a wonderful job.
Vonzelle sang with Billy Preston, "With You, I'm Born Again". They were also a great duet. Their voices were great compliments. It was a nice song for her.
Mikala and Lindsey got to sing with Babyface and I think they did a pretty good job. Mikala toned it down and sounded soulful and this was the first time since 11 weeks ago that I got to hear Lindsey. She was pretty good. It was funny to see Mikala touching Babyface's legs every few minutes. LOL.
The singing ended with Bo rockin with Lynard Skynard (they're old friends now, huh?) to Sweet Home Alabama. Love that song. Especially after Meredith bought the movie, I must've watched that 5 times. They were great, Bo was beaming, he was sooo in his element. Great way to close the singing.
Earlier on, they interviewed the judges and they all said that Carrie would win the night. Remains to be seen. I don't think it matters much now, though. They will both sell tons of CDs. I think Carrie can use the push from American Idol producers more than Bo would need the help, so my gut is that Carrie should win. But based on talent, Bo should win.
After all was said and done, the final winner of Season 4 was Carrie Underwood. You will hear from both of them again - and often.
Additional notes: how funny was that kid screaming his question to Simon? I laughed and laughed - especially when he repeat screamed it. LOL LOL
So You Think You Can Dance from the producers of American Idol. ha ha. now THAT is funny. But I have no desire to watch a bunch of bad dancers, thats a show I can skip to the finale on -- if at all.
The Last Two
They opened the show with a silly coin toss to determine who goes first. Ryan touted controversy/mayhem during the toss. What happened? Ryan dropped the coin (a double sided jobbie with Carrie's face on one side and Bo's on the other). It fell down a grate on stage. It was so bogus, they even had stage hands come help try to lift the grate. 1) why is there a grate on stage? its not like there's a subway under it that needs venting.
2) it SOOO lifted! Both when Ryan (who weighs 3 lbs) tried and when the stagehands and Carrie tried.
What a lame skit. The so need better comedy writers.
Now on to the singing...
Bo: Long, Long Road - was his original song. It was nice, not powerful, but definitely melodic. The song was not great. When the choir or whatever joined in, they overshadowed his voice and they sounded like they were singing in a different key than Bo. I coulda done without their 'help'. As for Bo's singing. He's got a great voice. He really got the crowd going. This is one of those songs that may grow on me the more I hear it.
Randy weighed in and agreed... weird song. Ha ha... I could be destined for bigger things: American Idol Judge! whoo hoo! lol. Paula said a bunch of nothing. This is what I hear when she talks: wah wah wah, blah blah blah. And I have no idea what his reference to Simon's chemistry teacher has to do with anything. So I spent my time trying to figure him out and didnt' hear the rest of what he said. I think he said something similar to Randy - that the song was strange.
Carrie: Sang her original song. It sounded like her voice was cracking during the chorus. It sounds like she's stretching too hard to make the notes and a lot of them sounded off key. Randy and even Paula heard it. Simon chalked it up to her nerves. Perhaps it is. And he gave great advice that she needs to pace herself tonight. I agreed. She was really punching her voice to make it hit the notes and push out the power. Simon said she won out of the 2 songs so far.
I'm not so sure I'm lovin' this original song crap.
Now, on to Bo's favorite song of the season. God, I hope he doesn't sing that Black Crows song. I didn't like it at all. And since he just did the a capella song last week, he can't do that again right away. Hmmm what'll he choose? - ah Vehicle. Yes, that was one of my favorites of Bo's. It was one of the ones that swayed me over to his camp. His voice is excellent in this song. All the judges agreed
Carrie sang the Martina song, Independence Day. I think her voice is giving out from all the stress. When she did this the first time, it sounded flawless and today she sounds like she's shouting to get the song out. It still sounded good, but Bo won this round, to me. He was much smoother and didn't have to try so hard.
Randy thought she was great. Paula said, "Primo". Simon of course... agrees with Me. He said it sounded strained to him. Me, too! He also agrees that Round 2 goes to Bo.
Bo sings Inside Your Heaven as his last song. His voice sounded a little pitchy, as they say, during the chorus. Is this the same song that Carrie just sang? Maybe its just another bad song. Did Tamyra write this? I definitely like it better in Bo's version. But this is a hard song and makes both their voices sound off. Thumbs down to the song. And speaking of Tamyra, they didn't have Kelly on this season.
Randy loved it, gave him props. Paula really loved it. Simon said that Bo showed his nerves a bit -- hmmm -- what that it? Nah, just a bad song. I liked the compliment that Simon gave to Bo - that was sweet.
I'm about to go upstairs when I realize - oh! there's one more song to go! I completely forgot. To me, the competition was over. Bo sang his 3 songs. Done. LOL -- oops
Carrie: Angels Brought Me Here- I think she's still stretching her voice too much to sing this song, too. I can only guess that her voice is tired and stressed out. Then again... Randy gives her his only standing ovation of the season... huh? Paula said nothing useful (no surprise). Then Simon said she had a lot of guts. What's that mean? You enter without knowing who you're gonna be up against. So what if Bo was older and more experienced? Its not like she's gonna quit just because its down to 4 and Bo's been around more. What a silly comment. And then, I guess he had to support his previous comment, he said she did enough to win the competition. I disagree, I don't think she pushed herself as much as she could have earlier one. She was good all along, but showed no big growth.
Overall, based on growth, stepping out from their safety zone, originality of sound... Bo's the clear winner to me.
One final note here. I don't remember with seasons 2 and 3, but Meredith called this winner from day one. Same with Kelly. And to my mind, season 1 and 4 were the only ones really worth watching. Go Mere, you psychic, you!
Down to the Wire boot-off show
So, I'm sitting here watching Vonzelle's hometown visit, and WOW that's a LOT of people that went to see her in Ft. Myers. She looked so cute all energized by the hometown love. And then she sang Chain of Fools again. The thing with Vonzelle is that she hasn't really gotten a hang of singing and walking around. Each move she made caused severe shakiness. Well, she's a top 3, so who really cares at this point. I'm hoping she goes, but at this juncture, its all about popularity.
What sucks is a good portion of Manhattan didn't get to see Idol last night (unless it was isolated to just Meredith's building) and I wonder if that impacted the voting at all or note.
After commercial, they did a Ford commercial to Blondie's "One Way or Another". Its another one of those goofy promo skits. I wonder if they watch those and groan inside?
Lynard Skynard met Bo at his hotel. He rode in his presidential SUV -OMG- he just said the same thing! lol how funny. Anyhow, he was carrying the worlds tiniest video camera.
Then he greeted fans and all, and he got choked up when he went to give his speech. It was very sweet. And to top off his trip home, he got to sing with Skynard. How cool is THAT for a rocker?
What is cool to me is that he did "In a Dream" again (his a capella song) so Meredith, Juanita & Flavia can see it. It lost something because you aren't hearing a whole night of music and band instruments and then the quiet power of just his voice. But its still a great job. I really like it when they dim all the rest of the lights and just beam down on him.
Did they show Bo's family and girlfriend? I didn't see them.
(BTW-Totally missing Miss C. - she can't read these, but I sure hope she heals completely and painlessly)
Carrie went home and her town's population more than doubled - can you imagine living in a town of 4,000 people? Oh yeah! She sang the "Star Spangled Banner" and I heard somewhere that that was the only song AI would allow her to sing. But Bo and Vonzelle sang different songs. ???
Carrie sang "Crying". Which is funny, because the other two sang their choice and she's singing Clive Davis's choice. She did a good job.
There was no fanfare, no overly dramatic pause. They booted Vonzelle. Big surprise, huh? :)
Well- the three of them break into song, and I gotta say, they don't harmonize well at all. I always thought it was Carrie who was throwing everyone off, but with only 3 of them, it was apparent that it was Vonzelle that was oversinging the group songs. Hmmmm
Well, you had a good run, but good night, Vonzie.
