The theme this week is Top iTunes Downloads. Since they can pretty much choose anything they want, no one can rely on not having a good song to choose from. Unfortunately, the Idols often crash and burn on weeks like this.
Ryan takes the Idols to the American Top 40 studio. Blatantly plug yourself much, Seacrest?
Anoop Desai - "Caught Up" Usher
Background singers started out in front of him. That was kind of cool. And I'm not sure he should be brushing off his shoulders. Or dancing. Again, I have the disconnect between how nerdy how looks and that he has a good voice. And Usher sings this song and performs it well because he can DANCE. Anoop just keeps scowling at the camera and trying to look tough. Not working for me. Thanks, Randy for agreeing with me. Kara is right on the money too. Making a song your own has been of HUGE importance in the last couple seasons. Simon was perhaps a little harsh, but also correct.
Megan Joy - "Turn Your Lights Down Low" Bob Marley/Lauryn Hill
I am SO bored right now. I thought Anoop was boring too, but at least he was moving around a little. I think this song suits her voice, but it's so BORING. I don't even have any thing else to say, I'm so bored. Kara's right - she absolutely should have done that Adele song or something like it. Paula is wrong though. That would make it even more boring. Thank you Simon - it was indulgent. She was singing the song for herself, not the audience. Randy was spot on - "You can love a song, but that doesn't mean you're going to sing it great."
Danny Gokey - "What Hurts the Most" Rascal Flatts
This is probably a great choice for him. He's oversinging a bit, but it's compelling to watch at least. I thought at first he was going to be a bit boring, but he got into it. Given the situation with his wife recently passing away, I can't believe he can sing those lyrics at all. I would probably lose it on the chorus. He really did a great job. "Find a great song, sing it brilliantly and do your own version." Thanks for boiling it down, Simon. The judges loved it, I loved it, everybody loved it. 1-866-IDOLS-03
Allison Iraheta - "Don't Speak" No Doubt
Allison is playing the guitar! Again, this should be a great choice for her. It was a pretty good performance. I wish she had kept playing the guitar a little longer. The outfit is ummm....not good. Maybe the hair or the dress or the shoes, but not all three. Good feedback, Randy & Kara. Especially what Kara said - she doesn't need to dress up like a rock star. She is a rock star. Paula - you are not allowed to call a guitar an "ax." Only guitarists and/or actual musicians get to use that word. Thank you.
(Aside - I feel bad when Scott has to smile and wave at the camera. I almost can't watch. Anyone else? Is it just me that gets enormously uncomfortable?)
Scott MacIntyre - "Just the Way You Are" Billy Joel
That was a good song for him. I didn't love all the things he did with the melody. And I'm not sure I love the hair. I wish they would borrow his brother's hair style. Paula - also, don't say legato if you aren't going to use it correctly in a sentence. He did a good job, and I'm glad the judges were a little more kind this week. (Another aside - I also get uncomfortable when they show Scott's family and his family is looking at Scott, but his sister is looking at the stage and not quite at Scott. Again, am I the only one noticing this? I feel bad that I even notice...)
Matt Giraud - "You Found Me" The Fray
Matt is playing keyboard in the middle of the rhythm-challenged mosh pit of girls. I hope he doesn't look down - there's a girl right in front of him that can't find the two and four and isn't clapping at the right times. Why do they allow those people to be so close to the stage!? I don't know this song and I'm not sure if I love it. I don't think Paula is right - it wasn't NEARLY as bad as the Coldplay song. But Simon is also right - pick a good song and sing it. If he'd chosen a good, more recognizable song in that same genre it would have worked better. "Apologize" would have been an awesome choice.
Lil Rounds - "I Surrender" Celine Dion
I'm nervous about this one. I'm always nervous when someone sings Celine. I'm a little nervous about her pitch in the first half. She's not...quite...there. She fixed it from the bridge on. She sang it well, but I didn't love this song for her. She sang it pretty well, but Randy's right - it did feel a little older. No more Adult Contemporary for Lil. Please. Watching Randy hug Lil's daughter is about the cutest thing ever. No wonder she's crying. CUTE!
Adam Lambert - "Play That Funky Music" Wild Cherry
I LOVE the backbeat on this arrangement. I made Diggity come down and watch it because it's cool. That was so fun. He was screaming a little much for me, but it was great. Adam - good call giving props to the band, because that did make the performance. And brilliant to back this up to what he did last week. 1-866-IDOLS-08
Kris Allen - "Ain't No Sunshine" Bill Withers
They give Kris the pimp spot. I'm kind of surprised. Playing keyboard with strings on stage. Nice. This kid is crazy talented. And he's cute. That was outstanding. Totally deserving of the pimp spot. 1-866-IDOLS-09
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In Summary -
Hated It: Anoop Desai, Megan Joy
Meh: Matt Giraud, Scott MacIntyre, Allison Iraheta, Lil Rounds
LOVED IT: Danny Gokey, Kris Allen, Adam Lambert
Bold Predictions -
Bottom 3: Scott MacIntyre, Megan Joy*, Anoop Desai
Going Home: Scott MacIntyre
*She may not be in the bottom three based on VFTW support.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Sunday, March 29, 2009
American Idol - Top 10 Results Show
Better late than really late! Right? Sorry for the delay. It's been tricky to find time to sit down and get this watched with my computer.
Performance recap - Still annoyed that Simon drew on Paula's face. Honestly, people.
Pre-Taped Motown Medley - Ouch. Okay - Idols, sit down and let's have a little talk. You can't be a pop star unless you learn how to lip sync correctly. Even if you never use this skill on the stage, you have music videos to make. You all stink at it. Poor Scott doesn't even know where his microphone is in relationship to his mouth and he's more convincing than half of you. Adam, you are excused from this conversation. You did a good job.
Ford Commercial - Meh. However, many of you are lip syncing much better than during the taped Motown medley.
Performance from Ruben Studdard - Now, I love Ruben. I think Clay should have won, but I love Ruben. He's got an outstanding, clear voice. He walks out on stage and I want to give him a big hug. And then about a minute into his performance, I want to run away screaming because he is SO SWEATY!! YIKES! My brother thinks he needs to carry a Sham Wow on stage with him. I realize now why the sweating bugs me so much - he is able to make such a beautiful, powerful sound. It sounds effortless, but then you look at his sweaty, sweaty face and realize that it isn't effortless at all. That's cute that he pointed to his wedding ring. Awwww...
RESULTS:
Adam Lambert is...safe. WOOO!
Matt Giraud is...pulled to the middle
Kris Allen is...safe.
Michael Sarver is...pulled to the middle.
Lil Rounds is...safe.
Performance by Joss Stone & Smokey Robinson. Joss has a few good songs, but she's kind of a barefooted, weird singer. She never wears shoes when she performs. Not sanitary.
MORE RESULTS:
Allison Iraheta is...safe.
Anoop Desai is...safe.
Danny Gokey is...safe.
Scott MacIntyre is...pulled to the middle
Megan Joy is...safe. I hope she's grateful to VFTW. Oddly, Dial Idol has her near the bottom.
Scott is safe and is sent back to the couch.
Stevie Wonder performs! I love him.
Matt Giraud is sent back to the couch. Sweet. I like him a lot. Michael Sarver is going to sing to save himself. It bugs me that Kara and Paula just dance and sing a long and Randy and Simon huddle behind to talk about the singer. Do the girls not have an opinion to render here?
The judges are sending him home, and Michael Sarver looks relieved.
Performance recap - Still annoyed that Simon drew on Paula's face. Honestly, people.
Pre-Taped Motown Medley - Ouch. Okay - Idols, sit down and let's have a little talk. You can't be a pop star unless you learn how to lip sync correctly. Even if you never use this skill on the stage, you have music videos to make. You all stink at it. Poor Scott doesn't even know where his microphone is in relationship to his mouth and he's more convincing than half of you. Adam, you are excused from this conversation. You did a good job.
Ford Commercial - Meh. However, many of you are lip syncing much better than during the taped Motown medley.
Performance from Ruben Studdard - Now, I love Ruben. I think Clay should have won, but I love Ruben. He's got an outstanding, clear voice. He walks out on stage and I want to give him a big hug. And then about a minute into his performance, I want to run away screaming because he is SO SWEATY!! YIKES! My brother thinks he needs to carry a Sham Wow on stage with him. I realize now why the sweating bugs me so much - he is able to make such a beautiful, powerful sound. It sounds effortless, but then you look at his sweaty, sweaty face and realize that it isn't effortless at all. That's cute that he pointed to his wedding ring. Awwww...
RESULTS:
Adam Lambert is...safe. WOOO!
Matt Giraud is...pulled to the middle
Kris Allen is...safe.
Michael Sarver is...pulled to the middle.
Lil Rounds is...safe.
Performance by Joss Stone & Smokey Robinson. Joss has a few good songs, but she's kind of a barefooted, weird singer. She never wears shoes when she performs. Not sanitary.
MORE RESULTS:
Allison Iraheta is...safe.
Anoop Desai is...safe.
Danny Gokey is...safe.
Scott MacIntyre is...pulled to the middle
Megan Joy is...safe. I hope she's grateful to VFTW. Oddly, Dial Idol has her near the bottom.
Scott is safe and is sent back to the couch.
Stevie Wonder performs! I love him.
Matt Giraud is sent back to the couch. Sweet. I like him a lot. Michael Sarver is going to sing to save himself. It bugs me that Kara and Paula just dance and sing a long and Randy and Simon huddle behind to talk about the singer. Do the girls not have an opinion to render here?
The judges are sending him home, and Michael Sarver looks relieved.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Recap Coming...
Hi everybody! I didn't get to see the entire results show with my computer at the ready last night. I saw that my Michael Sarver prediction was correct, though I'm a little upset about Matt Giraud being in the bottom 3. Not cool. I'm going to watch the results show when I get back to DC later today and post something then. (Thanks for checking in and keeping me on track, Diana! :) )
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
American Idol - Top 10 Performance Show
Hello, everyone! I didn't think I was going to get to watch this tonight! I'm in NYC tonight because I have a photography workshop tomorrow morning in Brooklyn. I'm very excited about tomorrow. Hopefully the rain in the forecast doesn't materialize.
It's Motown week! The kids get to go to Detroit! Smokey Robinson is the mentor.
Matt Giraud - "Let's Get it On"
As previously mentioned, I love Matt. He's an uber-talented musician and I really like watching him perform. Paula is up dancing. I wish that was actually a good sign. He reminds me of my "boyfriend" Justin Timberlake and that is a good thing. I loved that he played the piano and I love that he got up from the piano and sang straight to the audience. I loved it. I'm very glad to hear the judges agree. That was a great song for him. I hate that he's starting the show. It's traditionally not a good thing. Vote! 1-866-IDOLS-01
Kris Allen - "How Sweet it Is"
Such a talented kid. I like him a lot too. Paula's dancing again. He was awesome. Typically, the weak performers come first. If this is a typical lineup, I'm excited to see what is coming later in the show! Because the first two performances have been fantastic. 1-866-IDOLS-02
Scott MacIntyre - "Can't Hurry Love"
This could be interesting. Love that the backup singers are right next to the piano. That's great and should make it more fun to watch. I'm not sure I love the song for him. I wish he could give us some different vocal color week to week. I'm glad this was upbeat, and I liked the piano riffs, but I'm not sure about the whole thing. Paula - don't bring props for your jokes. Not cool. Not funny.
Megan Joy - "For Once in My Life"
I thought I was going to like this when I saw her with Smokey, but I hate it. She's yelling and completely oversinging and not even close on many of the notes. I wish she had done something different with the band. If she'd slowed it down and done a different arrangement, this song might have worked with her voice. The second half of the song was a little better. I'm not sure I love her dress and hair either. Randy is right with me. Thanks, Dawg. Kara doesn't like it. Paula's leading with an appearance compliment and telling Megan that the camera loves her, so she doesn't like it either. Simon's going to ream her. The Vote for The Worsters are going to LOVE this performance.
Anoop Desai - "Ooh Baby, Baby"
Cool to hear the story of how the song was written from Smokey. He was a little pitchy at the start. He sounds good going into the chorus. It still freaks me out to hear that voice coming out of Anoop. Don't know why. It's a great voice, don't get me wrong. It just doesn't match up. Like when you hear a DJ on the radio and you think you know what they look like and then you see them and they don't look anything like that. It was great to listen to, kind of boring to watch. Thanks, judges. Glad we are in concurrence. (Is that a word? Did I make it up?)
Michael Sarver - "Ain't Too Proud to Beg"
Should be a great song for his voice. He's doing about what I expected he would do, so I don't have much more to say. It's alright. I'm not sure I like it. Except at the end. He swallowed the sound and almost choked on it. I was scared for the health and well-being of his vocal cords for about three seconds at the end. Wow, the judges are really raking him across the coals more than I thought they would.
Lil Rounds - "Heat Wave"
Sorry, I was doing something else while I listened. Here's my analysis - great voice, boring performance, liked the dress. Oversinging a little bit. Agree with the judges - probably not the best song for her to do what she needs to do. Simon's critique was right on. Plus, she got Rickey's dreaded red lights...
Adam Lambert - "Tracks of My Tears"
Excited to hear this. All acoustic with the instrumentalists onstage with him. That was outstanding. Excellent changeup from last week. Love it. And it appears as though he started using Proactiv or got some better makeup this week. Standing ovation from Smokey Robinson. That says it all. (I just noticed something funny - when Paula starts to ramble, they always pull back and show Simon in her shot as well. They don't do that with anyone else.) I know you all know that I love Adam, but all love aside, that was artistically and technically amazing. 1-866-IDOLS-08.
Danny Gokey - "Get Ready"
This is a fun song. I hope he doesn't oversing again. Cute that he went to dance with the backup singers. He's got a lot of energy in his body and in his voice, but I didn't see it in his face until about halfway through. He shuts his eyes a lot. And if you'll recall, I hate eye closing. (See: Kristy Lee Cook, last season) I'm not too annoyed by the eye closing yet, but I'm now watching for it. Okay, Paula...new rule - no rhyming in your comments and no props for your jokes. 1-866-IDOLS-09
Allison Iraheta - "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone"
This is a sweet song. She sang the crap out of that. Holy cow. She has cords of steel. I always worry that she isn't going to be able to do it, and she pulls it off. That was great. Why does Paula have a moustache? I saw Simon draw it, but I'm not sure why it happened. They're so silly. I wish they wouldn't detract from the performers like that. 1-866-IDOLS-10
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In Summary -
Loved It: Matt Giraud, Kris Allen, Adam Lambert, Danny Gokey, Allison Iraheta
Meh: Anoop Desai, Michael Sarver, Lil Rounds
Hated It: Megan Joy, Scott MacIntyre
Bold Predictions -
Bottom 3: Megan Joy*, Michael Sarver, Scott MacIntyre (*She may not end up in the bottom 3 because of VFTW)
Going Home: Michael Sarver
It's Motown week! The kids get to go to Detroit! Smokey Robinson is the mentor.
Matt Giraud - "Let's Get it On"As previously mentioned, I love Matt. He's an uber-talented musician and I really like watching him perform. Paula is up dancing. I wish that was actually a good sign. He reminds me of my "boyfriend" Justin Timberlake and that is a good thing. I loved that he played the piano and I love that he got up from the piano and sang straight to the audience. I loved it. I'm very glad to hear the judges agree. That was a great song for him. I hate that he's starting the show. It's traditionally not a good thing. Vote! 1-866-IDOLS-01
Kris Allen - "How Sweet it Is"Such a talented kid. I like him a lot too. Paula's dancing again. He was awesome. Typically, the weak performers come first. If this is a typical lineup, I'm excited to see what is coming later in the show! Because the first two performances have been fantastic. 1-866-IDOLS-02
Scott MacIntyre - "Can't Hurry Love"
This could be interesting. Love that the backup singers are right next to the piano. That's great and should make it more fun to watch. I'm not sure I love the song for him. I wish he could give us some different vocal color week to week. I'm glad this was upbeat, and I liked the piano riffs, but I'm not sure about the whole thing. Paula - don't bring props for your jokes. Not cool. Not funny.
Megan Joy - "For Once in My Life"
I thought I was going to like this when I saw her with Smokey, but I hate it. She's yelling and completely oversinging and not even close on many of the notes. I wish she had done something different with the band. If she'd slowed it down and done a different arrangement, this song might have worked with her voice. The second half of the song was a little better. I'm not sure I love her dress and hair either. Randy is right with me. Thanks, Dawg. Kara doesn't like it. Paula's leading with an appearance compliment and telling Megan that the camera loves her, so she doesn't like it either. Simon's going to ream her. The Vote for The Worsters are going to LOVE this performance.
Anoop Desai - "Ooh Baby, Baby"
Cool to hear the story of how the song was written from Smokey. He was a little pitchy at the start. He sounds good going into the chorus. It still freaks me out to hear that voice coming out of Anoop. Don't know why. It's a great voice, don't get me wrong. It just doesn't match up. Like when you hear a DJ on the radio and you think you know what they look like and then you see them and they don't look anything like that. It was great to listen to, kind of boring to watch. Thanks, judges. Glad we are in concurrence. (Is that a word? Did I make it up?)
Michael Sarver - "Ain't Too Proud to Beg"
Should be a great song for his voice. He's doing about what I expected he would do, so I don't have much more to say. It's alright. I'm not sure I like it. Except at the end. He swallowed the sound and almost choked on it. I was scared for the health and well-being of his vocal cords for about three seconds at the end. Wow, the judges are really raking him across the coals more than I thought they would.
Lil Rounds - "Heat Wave"
Sorry, I was doing something else while I listened. Here's my analysis - great voice, boring performance, liked the dress. Oversinging a little bit. Agree with the judges - probably not the best song for her to do what she needs to do. Simon's critique was right on. Plus, she got Rickey's dreaded red lights...
Adam Lambert - "Tracks of My Tears"Excited to hear this. All acoustic with the instrumentalists onstage with him. That was outstanding. Excellent changeup from last week. Love it. And it appears as though he started using Proactiv or got some better makeup this week. Standing ovation from Smokey Robinson. That says it all. (I just noticed something funny - when Paula starts to ramble, they always pull back and show Simon in her shot as well. They don't do that with anyone else.) I know you all know that I love Adam, but all love aside, that was artistically and technically amazing. 1-866-IDOLS-08.
Danny Gokey - "Get Ready"This is a fun song. I hope he doesn't oversing again. Cute that he went to dance with the backup singers. He's got a lot of energy in his body and in his voice, but I didn't see it in his face until about halfway through. He shuts his eyes a lot. And if you'll recall, I hate eye closing. (See: Kristy Lee Cook, last season) I'm not too annoyed by the eye closing yet, but I'm now watching for it. Okay, Paula...new rule - no rhyming in your comments and no props for your jokes. 1-866-IDOLS-09
Allison Iraheta - "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone"This is a sweet song. She sang the crap out of that. Holy cow. She has cords of steel. I always worry that she isn't going to be able to do it, and she pulls it off. That was great. Why does Paula have a moustache? I saw Simon draw it, but I'm not sure why it happened. They're so silly. I wish they wouldn't detract from the performers like that. 1-866-IDOLS-10
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In Summary -
Loved It: Matt Giraud, Kris Allen, Adam Lambert, Danny Gokey, Allison Iraheta
Meh: Anoop Desai, Michael Sarver, Lil Rounds
Hated It: Megan Joy, Scott MacIntyre
Bold Predictions -
Bottom 3: Megan Joy*, Michael Sarver, Scott MacIntyre (*She may not end up in the bottom 3 because of VFTW)
Going Home: Michael Sarver
Monday, March 23, 2009
I ♥ Faces - No Flash (Adults)
This beautiful young lady isn't quite an adult, but since there isn't a teen category and she's way too mature to be in the kids category - I'm entering her picture here.
We just found out their family is moving overseas later this summer. So sad - we're going to miss them terribly.
Head on over to I ♥ Faces to see the other entries or to enter one of your own!
I ♥ Faces - No Flash (Kids)
Choosing a photo this week was tough for me. Since getting my beloved D40, I really don't use my flash anymore, so most of my pictures technically qualify for this category. I started looking back through my pictures starting at the beginning of last summer and it was a bit overwhelming, so I just chose pictures I took recently that I really love.
G-Man and I went outside to play with chalk the other day. I have some more pictures from that day that I'll post later, but for now, here is one of my favorites and my entry for this week in the kids division: (If you can't see the entire picture, try making your browser window a little wider, it should stretch so you can see the whole thing.)
Head on over to I ♥ Faces to see the other entries or to enter one of your own!
Sunday, March 22, 2009
23 Months
I can't believe it. He turns 2 next month. He's such a big boy - talking up a storm. He loves to color, he loves to play, he loves to be outside. He's pretty much all boy.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
American Idol - Top 11 Results Show
Ryan tells me the results may shock me. Then again, they may not. Then I looked at Dial Idol and decided they may actually shock me. I'll wait until I hear the actual results to let you know if I'm shocked. I am shocked that I like Paula's hair and I'm not terrified of her outfit.
Show Recap! Randy Travis says this group is strong. I have to agree. I like more people this year at this point than I ever have before.
Group Performance! Scott is playing the piano for the boys. Another clever way to keep him from dancing. It's kind of crazy that there are only 4 girls right now. Probably because in past years they have an even number of guys and girls going into the top 12. This year, it's all popular votes coming out of the top 36.
Ford Commercial! Water balloon fight! Ford cars are so much fun! And so clean when the water balloon fight is over!
Behind the scenes of the rejection from last week! It does show a nice personal side. And how nice that they go to dinner afterward. Face masks to protect everyone from Megan during rehearsal. Smart singers.
Results:
Danny Gokey is safe! As if...
Lil Rounds is safe!
Anoop Desai is safe! Again, as if...he has a HUGE fan base right now.
Allison Iraheta and Michael Sarver stand together. Allison is in the bottom 3. Michael is also in the bottom 3 Ok, Seacrest. You did actually surprise me with that one. Dial Idol has Michael Sarver well out of the bottom 3.
Brad Paisley sings. I like him, but I'm tired. I like his upbeat songs more than his ballads. Boo doop!
More Results:
Scott MacIntyre is safe!
Megan Joy is safe!! Go Utah!
Matt Giraud is safe!! Sweet. I like him.
Kris Allen is safe! Again, I like him.
Alexis Grace and Adam Lambert are the last two on the couch. Ooohhh...crusty look from Alexis when Randy got her name wrong. Alexis is in the bottom 3, Adam is safe. (Whew!)
Allison gets sent back to the safety of the couch.
Alexis and Michael are the bottom 2. Dial Idol has Alexis lower than Michael. Hmmmm...
Carrie Underwood! Carrie - you're so pretty! Not a fan of the haircut, though. Carrie is singing with Randy Travis. I've never heard her sing this song - it's one of Randy Travis' huge songs. Kind of considered untouchable, but she recorded it on her last album. Carrie rocked that. She's technically an outstanding singer, and she's a great performer. And she's pretty.
Final Results - Alexis Grace is going home...or is she? I think they're going to save her if she sings well. She's still pretty pitchy starting out. I can't imagine how nervous she must be. These have to be hard lyrics to sing given the situation she is in right now. She didn't sing very well though.
Nope. Not going to save her. Wow. She was being pushed as a possible top 4. Only three girls in the top 10. Wow. I'm not gonna lie - I'm slightly shocked.
------------------------
Programming note: President Obama is speaking next Tuesday, so Idol will be on Wednesday and Thursday next week.
Show Recap! Randy Travis says this group is strong. I have to agree. I like more people this year at this point than I ever have before.
Group Performance! Scott is playing the piano for the boys. Another clever way to keep him from dancing. It's kind of crazy that there are only 4 girls right now. Probably because in past years they have an even number of guys and girls going into the top 12. This year, it's all popular votes coming out of the top 36.
Ford Commercial! Water balloon fight! Ford cars are so much fun! And so clean when the water balloon fight is over!
Behind the scenes of the rejection from last week! It does show a nice personal side. And how nice that they go to dinner afterward. Face masks to protect everyone from Megan during rehearsal. Smart singers.
Results:
Danny Gokey is safe! As if...
Lil Rounds is safe!
Anoop Desai is safe! Again, as if...he has a HUGE fan base right now.
Allison Iraheta and Michael Sarver stand together. Allison is in the bottom 3. Michael is also in the bottom 3 Ok, Seacrest. You did actually surprise me with that one. Dial Idol has Michael Sarver well out of the bottom 3.
Brad Paisley sings. I like him, but I'm tired. I like his upbeat songs more than his ballads. Boo doop!
More Results:
Scott MacIntyre is safe!
Megan Joy is safe!! Go Utah!
Matt Giraud is safe!! Sweet. I like him.
Kris Allen is safe! Again, I like him.
Alexis Grace and Adam Lambert are the last two on the couch. Ooohhh...crusty look from Alexis when Randy got her name wrong. Alexis is in the bottom 3, Adam is safe. (Whew!)
Allison gets sent back to the safety of the couch.
Alexis and Michael are the bottom 2. Dial Idol has Alexis lower than Michael. Hmmmm...
Carrie Underwood! Carrie - you're so pretty! Not a fan of the haircut, though. Carrie is singing with Randy Travis. I've never heard her sing this song - it's one of Randy Travis' huge songs. Kind of considered untouchable, but she recorded it on her last album. Carrie rocked that. She's technically an outstanding singer, and she's a great performer. And she's pretty.
Final Results - Alexis Grace is going home...or is she? I think they're going to save her if she sings well. She's still pretty pitchy starting out. I can't imagine how nervous she must be. These have to be hard lyrics to sing given the situation she is in right now. She didn't sing very well though.
Nope. Not going to save her. Wow. She was being pushed as a possible top 4. Only three girls in the top 10. Wow. I'm not gonna lie - I'm slightly shocked.
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Programming note: President Obama is speaking next Tuesday, so Idol will be on Wednesday and Thursday next week.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
American Idol - Top 11 Performance Show
I'm not loving the lineup I'm seeing - lots of favorites near the front. And I still don't love the judges walking out from backstage. Maybe I'll get used to it, but I doubt it.
It's a big week! The top 10 get to go on the summer tour. A six figure summer gig? Not so bad. We're celebrating the Grand Ole Opry tonight. Pretty rough to put the country week so early in the rotation. People are known to crash and burn. Randy Travis is our helper tonight.
Bring on the songs!
Michael Sarver - "Ain't Goin' Down 'til the Sun Comes Up"
This song is really hard rhythmically. I don't mind that he's first. He's not a favorite of mine. I was a little bored. It's not a difficult melody at all. And he's a little behind on the rhythm in a couple places.
It looks as though their lineup for the camera at the beginning of the show was in opposite order of the way they are actually singing - Michael Sarver was last in line and he sang first. I'm no longer alarmed by the order I saw at the beginning of the show.
Allison Iraheta - "Blame it On Your Heart"
I like this song a lot. Allison - don't do the dance. She's a little behind the band at the beginning. This is a good song choice for her though, I think. It doesn't sound completely out of place with her vocal style. I wish she'd gone for a bigger high note at the end.
Kris Allen - "To Make You Feel My Love"
He's got such a great voice. I'm worried the judges are going to think this is boring. He was a little shaky on the falsetto at the end. Glad Simon didn't think it was boring, because it sounded great. 1-866-IDOLS-03
Lil Rounds - "Independence Day"
The R&B singers never do so well on country week. This is a killer song. I love it. I hope she sings it well. I don't love her dress for this song. I also want her to do something else with her non-mike hand. (Rickey over at Rickey.org is going to be worried about the red lights. He has a theory that when they give you red background lights, your chance of getting voted off goes up dramatically. He actually has some evidence to back it up.) I really didn't love that. I am glad she tried to sing more country style, but it didn't work for me.
Adam Lambert - "Ring of Fire"
Randy Travis' reaction to the arrangement was awesome. Adam really works the camera. I would appreciate it if the glam squad would maybe throw some Proactiv his way. It could help. It helped Jessica Simpson, after all. I don't completely love this arrangement, but his voice is KILLING me. He's amazing. Holy crap. I think Simon was a bit harsh. I do think Adam is going to draw the ire of country lovers. But he gets my vote for vocal technique and pyrotechnics alone. 1-866-IDOLS-05.
Scott MacIntyre - "Wild Angels"
Another Martina McBride song. Scott's at the piano again. Probably good. I find it awkward when he sings straight into the camera. They've given his hair a little bit of help this week. Thanks, Glam Squad! I've never heard this Martina song before. I like it. Paula is annoying.
Alexis Grace - "Jolene"
This is a great song. Good story song. She sounds great - maybe she shouldn't walk and sing at the same time. It seems to be causing support problems on certain notes. Maybe it's just me. It's scary how much she looks like a young Dolly Parton.
Danny Gokey - "Jesus Take the Wheel"
I hope he doesn't destroy the lyrics. He sure messed up a lot with Randy Travis. I'm not loving the white coat he's wearing. He's rocking the chorus. I didn't love this song choice for him, but I adore his voice.
Anoop Desai - "You're Always On My Mind"
Rough start for a minute. It's fixed now. He sounds pretty good on this song. He's got a great voice. I still have a hard time reconciling his image with his voice. I'm interested to see what the judges think of this one. Glad they like it so much. I think he was deserving. I think they really want him to go on the tour. Michael Sarver is in trouble, I think. 1-866-IDOLS-09
Megan Joy - "I Go Walking After Midnight"
Evidently she has changed her name. This might be a good song for her. She has such a unique sound. I don't love it all the time. There were spots on this song where I really liked it. She looks fabulous. Singing when you're sick like that is crappy. Poor thing.
Matt Giraud - "So Small"
I just love Matt. I'm a sucker for great musicians. He did a great job with that song. The judges are feeling the love too.
----------------
Bold Predictions -
Bottom 3 - Michael Sarver, Allison Iraheta, Lil Rounds or maybe Alexis Grace
Going Home - Michael Sarver
For fun: USA Today has a fun American Idol prediction meter. Check out last week's meter here.
Another article of interest: The top four are picked already? Read more.
It's a big week! The top 10 get to go on the summer tour. A six figure summer gig? Not so bad. We're celebrating the Grand Ole Opry tonight. Pretty rough to put the country week so early in the rotation. People are known to crash and burn. Randy Travis is our helper tonight.
Bring on the songs!
Michael Sarver - "Ain't Goin' Down 'til the Sun Comes Up"
This song is really hard rhythmically. I don't mind that he's first. He's not a favorite of mine. I was a little bored. It's not a difficult melody at all. And he's a little behind on the rhythm in a couple places.
It looks as though their lineup for the camera at the beginning of the show was in opposite order of the way they are actually singing - Michael Sarver was last in line and he sang first. I'm no longer alarmed by the order I saw at the beginning of the show.
Allison Iraheta - "Blame it On Your Heart"
I like this song a lot. Allison - don't do the dance. She's a little behind the band at the beginning. This is a good song choice for her though, I think. It doesn't sound completely out of place with her vocal style. I wish she'd gone for a bigger high note at the end.
Kris Allen - "To Make You Feel My Love"
He's got such a great voice. I'm worried the judges are going to think this is boring. He was a little shaky on the falsetto at the end. Glad Simon didn't think it was boring, because it sounded great. 1-866-IDOLS-03
Lil Rounds - "Independence Day"
The R&B singers never do so well on country week. This is a killer song. I love it. I hope she sings it well. I don't love her dress for this song. I also want her to do something else with her non-mike hand. (Rickey over at Rickey.org is going to be worried about the red lights. He has a theory that when they give you red background lights, your chance of getting voted off goes up dramatically. He actually has some evidence to back it up.) I really didn't love that. I am glad she tried to sing more country style, but it didn't work for me.
Adam Lambert - "Ring of Fire"
Randy Travis' reaction to the arrangement was awesome. Adam really works the camera. I would appreciate it if the glam squad would maybe throw some Proactiv his way. It could help. It helped Jessica Simpson, after all. I don't completely love this arrangement, but his voice is KILLING me. He's amazing. Holy crap. I think Simon was a bit harsh. I do think Adam is going to draw the ire of country lovers. But he gets my vote for vocal technique and pyrotechnics alone. 1-866-IDOLS-05.
Scott MacIntyre - "Wild Angels"
Another Martina McBride song. Scott's at the piano again. Probably good. I find it awkward when he sings straight into the camera. They've given his hair a little bit of help this week. Thanks, Glam Squad! I've never heard this Martina song before. I like it. Paula is annoying.
Alexis Grace - "Jolene"
This is a great song. Good story song. She sounds great - maybe she shouldn't walk and sing at the same time. It seems to be causing support problems on certain notes. Maybe it's just me. It's scary how much she looks like a young Dolly Parton.
Danny Gokey - "Jesus Take the Wheel"
I hope he doesn't destroy the lyrics. He sure messed up a lot with Randy Travis. I'm not loving the white coat he's wearing. He's rocking the chorus. I didn't love this song choice for him, but I adore his voice.
Anoop Desai - "You're Always On My Mind"
Rough start for a minute. It's fixed now. He sounds pretty good on this song. He's got a great voice. I still have a hard time reconciling his image with his voice. I'm interested to see what the judges think of this one. Glad they like it so much. I think he was deserving. I think they really want him to go on the tour. Michael Sarver is in trouble, I think. 1-866-IDOLS-09
Megan Joy - "I Go Walking After Midnight"
Evidently she has changed her name. This might be a good song for her. She has such a unique sound. I don't love it all the time. There were spots on this song where I really liked it. She looks fabulous. Singing when you're sick like that is crappy. Poor thing.
Matt Giraud - "So Small"
I just love Matt. I'm a sucker for great musicians. He did a great job with that song. The judges are feeling the love too.
----------------
Bold Predictions -
Bottom 3 - Michael Sarver, Allison Iraheta, Lil Rounds or maybe Alexis Grace
Going Home - Michael Sarver
For fun: USA Today has a fun American Idol prediction meter. Check out last week's meter here.
Another article of interest: The top four are picked already? Read more.
Monday, March 16, 2009
I Heart Faces - Green
I've not had a chance to enter one of these contests since the "Eyes" contest I entered a few weeks ago. I was going to take a new picture of G-Man, but we don't have a lot of green around here right now. Luckily I remembered this picture:
I love this shot. We were raspberry picking this last fall and he was getting tired of continuously turning around to have his picture taken. Such a cute boy!
Head over to I Heart Faces and join in on the fun!
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
American Idol - Top 13 Results Show
They're really going to use this staircase a lot. I can feel it. A new rule? What new rule? I boo-dooped through part of the judges intros last night.
Here's the new rule - the "judges save" Up until the top 5, the judges can save one contestant from elimination. The judges have to decide unanimously. They can only save one contestant for the entire competition. Once the judges save a contestant, they can't save anyone else for the rest of the season.
We're seeing the contestant residence for the first time since Season 1. It looks like the big judges house from the chair episode. Too bad they're so busy they'll never spend any time there.
Jackson 5 Medley! Cue awkward dancing! Scott is dancing! Wow! They've done a pretty good job of putting people next to Scott to help him in the transitions. And lots of camera work. Awkward dancing solo for Danny!
Recap of last night. I'm on Twitter - not really watching. The Ford commercial was sweet! The contestants are clearly pleased with the result. High fives all around!
Results: (Dial Idol has Jasmine, Jorge and Allison at the bottom)
Michael Sarver - Safe!
Allison Iraheta - Safe! (So, it's probably Jasmine & Jorge...)
Jasmine Murray - pulled to the middle of the stage to await her fate
Matt Giraud - though obviously confused, is Safe!
Kris Allen - Safe!
Megan Corkrey - pulled to the middle of the stage to await her fate, but she's safe
Jasmine is the first elimination. We have to hear her sing. But I don't...boo doop! The judges discussed it when she was singing and then eliminated her again. Rejected by America and Randy Jackson within five minutes. Ouch!
Performance by Kanye West. Kanye is wearing gloves and grabbing his crotch. Kanye...you are not MJ. And you really shouldn't sing. Even with that techno filter over your voice, it shouldn't be happening. Wow - they moved the judges out for the performance and put screaming girls from the rhythmically challenged mosh pit up there. Also, are those the worst backup singers ever? Why does the drummer have a mask on? Why am I still watching this? Kanye...just perform "Gold Digger" next time. Mmmmkay? Thanks.
More Results:
Scott MacIntyre - Safe!
Alexis Grace - Safe! (I typed that before Ryan said it. I can READ RYAN'S MIND!)
Danny Gokey - Safe! As if he was in trouble.
Anoop Desai - pulled to the middle of the stage to await his fate
Adam Lambert - Safe! As if...
Jorge Nunez - pulled to the middle of the stage to await his fate
Lil Rounds - Safe!
If Dial Idol is right, it's Jorge. But, we have to wait through a commercial and a Kelly Clarkson performance to find out.
Yay! Kelly!!! Booo! Kelly's outfit! Yikes. Booo! Kelly's hair! Regardless, I love her. She's a fantastic singer and performer. She's a little vocally tired and she still sounds great. Though she needs to fire whoever picked out that outfit.
Anoop is safe. Jorge is going home....or is he?
He is. Sorry, Jorge.
Did you agree with America? Should the judges have used their rule to save Jorge or Jasmine? How far can Megan go with support from Vote for the Worst and the Utah voting block?
Here's the new rule - the "judges save" Up until the top 5, the judges can save one contestant from elimination. The judges have to decide unanimously. They can only save one contestant for the entire competition. Once the judges save a contestant, they can't save anyone else for the rest of the season.
We're seeing the contestant residence for the first time since Season 1. It looks like the big judges house from the chair episode. Too bad they're so busy they'll never spend any time there.
Jackson 5 Medley! Cue awkward dancing! Scott is dancing! Wow! They've done a pretty good job of putting people next to Scott to help him in the transitions. And lots of camera work. Awkward dancing solo for Danny!
Recap of last night. I'm on Twitter - not really watching. The Ford commercial was sweet! The contestants are clearly pleased with the result. High fives all around!
Results: (Dial Idol has Jasmine, Jorge and Allison at the bottom)
Michael Sarver - Safe!
Allison Iraheta - Safe! (So, it's probably Jasmine & Jorge...)
Jasmine Murray - pulled to the middle of the stage to await her fate
Matt Giraud - though obviously confused, is Safe!
Kris Allen - Safe!
Megan Corkrey - pulled to the middle of the stage to await her fate, but she's safe
Jasmine is the first elimination. We have to hear her sing. But I don't...boo doop! The judges discussed it when she was singing and then eliminated her again. Rejected by America and Randy Jackson within five minutes. Ouch!
Performance by Kanye West. Kanye is wearing gloves and grabbing his crotch. Kanye...you are not MJ. And you really shouldn't sing. Even with that techno filter over your voice, it shouldn't be happening. Wow - they moved the judges out for the performance and put screaming girls from the rhythmically challenged mosh pit up there. Also, are those the worst backup singers ever? Why does the drummer have a mask on? Why am I still watching this? Kanye...just perform "Gold Digger" next time. Mmmmkay? Thanks.
More Results:
Scott MacIntyre - Safe!
Alexis Grace - Safe! (I typed that before Ryan said it. I can READ RYAN'S MIND!)
Danny Gokey - Safe! As if he was in trouble.
Anoop Desai - pulled to the middle of the stage to await his fate
Adam Lambert - Safe! As if...
Jorge Nunez - pulled to the middle of the stage to await his fate
Lil Rounds - Safe!
If Dial Idol is right, it's Jorge. But, we have to wait through a commercial and a Kelly Clarkson performance to find out.
Yay! Kelly!!! Booo! Kelly's outfit! Yikes. Booo! Kelly's hair! Regardless, I love her. She's a fantastic singer and performer. She's a little vocally tired and she still sounds great. Though she needs to fire whoever picked out that outfit.
Anoop is safe. Jorge is going home....or is he?
He is. Sorry, Jorge.
Did you agree with America? Should the judges have used their rule to save Jorge or Jasmine? How far can Megan go with support from Vote for the Worst and the Utah voting block?
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
American Idol - Top 13 Performance Show
Top 13!
Focus problem for Ryan on the opening shot there. Wooohhh! Extreme out of focus close-up. That was almost highly dramatic. Almost.
Judges are walking on from backstage?! What is this? With an introduction from the commercial announcer? No. Me no likey. And Ryan is now walking down a huge lit staircase. Ummm....no, Ryan. I didn't like it. And a new fancy sparkling set! The band isn't usually visible like that. I like the new set. That is all.
Kara's wearing body glitter! Fancy! Paula is wearing feathers, gold lame and body glitter! Tacky and fancy! And the top 13 have stylists now! It isn't so noticeable on some, but it's completely apparent on others. Kind of worried that Lil Rounds and Danny Gokey are so near the beginning of the rotation. And speaking of elimination, two people get cut tomorrow. I wondered if they were going to do that. It's not like they can extend the season one week just because they decided to add an extra person.
Tonight's theme: Michael Jackson! Sweet. This is going to be awesome...or awful...which will also be awesome.
Okay - rather than reordering all the singers according to my favorites, I'm going to put a picture of the singer with my critique. That way, you'll know my favorites. :)
Lil Rounds - "The Way You Make Me Feel"
Pretty flawless vocal performance. Paula is up dancing. I'm not sure Lil deserves it. That was a little boring to me with her stage presence. Great voice though. (Did you see the video screen on the floor in front of the judges?! Awesome!) Everyone's wearing body glitter tonight! Diggity and I completely agree with Simon. On all counts.
Scott MacIntyre - "Keep the Faith"
I loved Scott's video package. His family seems awesome. I've never heard this song before. This seems like a really good choice for him. Nice run into the falsetto on the bridge. He's had a couple pitch problems. It's not a super well constructed song, but it did the job for him. Loved that he got to play piano. It's hard when he sings a song where he tries to connect with the audience. Him not knowing where to look is a little awkward at times.
Danny Gokey - "PYT"
Cutest. Family. Ever. Not sure about this song. I like the intro. He actually handled that pretty well. Better than I thought he might. I like his voice a LOT. I was a little nervous about the white boy dancing at first, but it got better. He's cute. Go, Danny!
Michael Sarver - "You Are Not Alone"
I love this song. I forgot about it. Get out your lighters and cell phones everybody! Start swaying. Diggity wants Michael to open his mouth when he sings. So do I! OUCH on the bridge. He's so close...so close...just a little higher...OUCH! Okay...I don't think the judges heard the pitchy stuff in the studio. Maybe they'll redeem me tomorrow after they go home and watch the show back.
Ummm...what is on Paula's wrist? It looks like an oversized bedazzled dog tag.
Jasmine Murray - "I'll Be There"
Someone needs to get Jasmine's mom a new wig. Quick. Yikes. More body glitter and a very cute dress. Jasmine's got a good voice, but I'm feeling a little too much beauty pageant vibe in her performance. She sounded good though. That's a tough song. Jasmine's mom has a new wig in the audience! Again, I agree with Simon.
Kris Allen - "Remember the Time"
I saw this tagline in Entertainment Weekly today: "Kris Allen - the AI contestant that gay men and straight women can agree on." It made me laugh. Cutest. Newlyweds. Ever. AWWWW...MATCHING APRONS! Not sure I liked that performance. Some of the notes were terrible. And I would have liked to hear him change the arrangement up a little, maybe. It seems like he has the talent to arrange. He has a lot more energy when he plays guitar. He'll get the cutie patootie vote either way.
Allison Iraheta - "Given In to Me"
I love how she's had that funky style since she was 9 years old. Cute. I'm not familiar with this song. It seems to fit her vibe. I liked her better on the Heart song. She's kind of yelling at me and I don't love it. She's just a-ight for me, dawg.
Anoop Desai - "Beat It"
Matrix lights! I'm not in love with this. He's trying hard and I think he has a nice voice to listen to. But I just don't think you sing that song on Michael Jackson week. Or ever. I actually agree with Paula. That's an untouchable song. Especially if you are going to sing it just the way Michael sang it. Wow, the judges really threw him under the bus. Poor Anoop.
Jorge Nunez - "Never Can Say Goodbye"
I already hate this. Schmaltz city. Jorge has a great voice, but Placido Domingo already has this market cornered. And Marc Anthony has the rest of it cornered. I feel badly, because he's singing the crap out of this song, but I hate it.
Megan Corkrey - "Rockin' Robin"
I thought this was a really fun song choice for her. Awesome. And I'm so glad the stylists got a hold of her. She seems a lot more comfortable. Still a little awkward with the dancing, but fun. I do disagree with Simon on this one. It wasn't the best song, but it wasn't terrible.
Adam Lambert - "Black and White"
This could be cool. I hope it's cool. Please be cool.
COOL! Ok. He's a TOTAL rock star. Truth time - I actually squealed three times. Like a little teenage girl. I didn't love the bridge with the strobe lights, but I really loved the rest of it. Simon just gave him a genuine smile. Wow. I hope people vote for him. I'd hate to see him get Daughtryed. (I just made up that verb. Copyright Macy Robison 2009)
1-866-IDOLS-11
Matt Giraud - "Human Nature"
THIS is what I've been waiting for. Someone to put their spin on a song. 1) I love this song. 2) I love that he is playing the piano. 3) I love that he put his own spin on the song. 4) He reminds me of Justin Timberlake. In a good way. He'd be a dead ringer for him if he had a tiny hat on. That was a one squeal performance. 1-866-IDOLS-12
Alexis Grace - "Dirty Diana"
Totally forgot about her. Whitney - was it you that said her dad was a blues guitarist? Good call.
This is gonna be cool. Great choice for her. I still can't believe that voice comes out of that tiny little girl. I also can't believe she can walk in those heels. She did oversing. Her little girl is adorable. Wow. Having that phone number might hurt her. 1-866-IDOLS-36
-------------------
I'm voting for:
Adam Lambert & Matt Giraud. I might throw a couple of dials toward Danny & Alexis as well.
Bold Predictions:
Bottom 3 - Jasmine Murray, Jorge Nunez, Anoop Desai
Going Home - Jasmine & Anoop
I'm probably way off. We're at a point in the show where it's unpredictable. Sometimes good people go home because of complacency. People figure the ones who did well are going to be okay, and you get a lot of block votes for people that are well loved but maybe didn't sing well. (What Not To Sing calls this the Sesame Street Effect. You should click over and read about it. Their whole site is awesome.) That's why I think Jorge is going to be okay. He has a whole island voting for him. Vote for the Worst is pushing for Megan Corkrey. They said the "caw caw!" at the end of the performance was a call for them to vote for her. That made me laugh out loud when I read it.
Get out there and vote!
Focus problem for Ryan on the opening shot there. Wooohhh! Extreme out of focus close-up. That was almost highly dramatic. Almost.
Judges are walking on from backstage?! What is this? With an introduction from the commercial announcer? No. Me no likey. And Ryan is now walking down a huge lit staircase. Ummm....no, Ryan. I didn't like it. And a new fancy sparkling set! The band isn't usually visible like that. I like the new set. That is all.
Kara's wearing body glitter! Fancy! Paula is wearing feathers, gold lame and body glitter! Tacky and fancy! And the top 13 have stylists now! It isn't so noticeable on some, but it's completely apparent on others. Kind of worried that Lil Rounds and Danny Gokey are so near the beginning of the rotation. And speaking of elimination, two people get cut tomorrow. I wondered if they were going to do that. It's not like they can extend the season one week just because they decided to add an extra person.
Tonight's theme: Michael Jackson! Sweet. This is going to be awesome...or awful...which will also be awesome.
Okay - rather than reordering all the singers according to my favorites, I'm going to put a picture of the singer with my critique. That way, you'll know my favorites. :)
Lil Rounds - "The Way You Make Me Feel"
Pretty flawless vocal performance. Paula is up dancing. I'm not sure Lil deserves it. That was a little boring to me with her stage presence. Great voice though. (Did you see the video screen on the floor in front of the judges?! Awesome!) Everyone's wearing body glitter tonight! Diggity and I completely agree with Simon. On all counts.
Scott MacIntyre - "Keep the Faith"
I loved Scott's video package. His family seems awesome. I've never heard this song before. This seems like a really good choice for him. Nice run into the falsetto on the bridge. He's had a couple pitch problems. It's not a super well constructed song, but it did the job for him. Loved that he got to play piano. It's hard when he sings a song where he tries to connect with the audience. Him not knowing where to look is a little awkward at times.
Danny Gokey - "PYT"Cutest. Family. Ever. Not sure about this song. I like the intro. He actually handled that pretty well. Better than I thought he might. I like his voice a LOT. I was a little nervous about the white boy dancing at first, but it got better. He's cute. Go, Danny!
Michael Sarver - "You Are Not Alone"
I love this song. I forgot about it. Get out your lighters and cell phones everybody! Start swaying. Diggity wants Michael to open his mouth when he sings. So do I! OUCH on the bridge. He's so close...so close...just a little higher...OUCH! Okay...I don't think the judges heard the pitchy stuff in the studio. Maybe they'll redeem me tomorrow after they go home and watch the show back.
Ummm...what is on Paula's wrist? It looks like an oversized bedazzled dog tag.
Jasmine Murray - "I'll Be There"
Someone needs to get Jasmine's mom a new wig. Quick. Yikes. More body glitter and a very cute dress. Jasmine's got a good voice, but I'm feeling a little too much beauty pageant vibe in her performance. She sounded good though. That's a tough song. Jasmine's mom has a new wig in the audience! Again, I agree with Simon.
Kris Allen - "Remember the Time"
I saw this tagline in Entertainment Weekly today: "Kris Allen - the AI contestant that gay men and straight women can agree on." It made me laugh. Cutest. Newlyweds. Ever. AWWWW...MATCHING APRONS! Not sure I liked that performance. Some of the notes were terrible. And I would have liked to hear him change the arrangement up a little, maybe. It seems like he has the talent to arrange. He has a lot more energy when he plays guitar. He'll get the cutie patootie vote either way.
Allison Iraheta - "Given In to Me"
I love how she's had that funky style since she was 9 years old. Cute. I'm not familiar with this song. It seems to fit her vibe. I liked her better on the Heart song. She's kind of yelling at me and I don't love it. She's just a-ight for me, dawg.
Anoop Desai - "Beat It"
Matrix lights! I'm not in love with this. He's trying hard and I think he has a nice voice to listen to. But I just don't think you sing that song on Michael Jackson week. Or ever. I actually agree with Paula. That's an untouchable song. Especially if you are going to sing it just the way Michael sang it. Wow, the judges really threw him under the bus. Poor Anoop.
Jorge Nunez - "Never Can Say Goodbye"
I already hate this. Schmaltz city. Jorge has a great voice, but Placido Domingo already has this market cornered. And Marc Anthony has the rest of it cornered. I feel badly, because he's singing the crap out of this song, but I hate it.
Megan Corkrey - "Rockin' Robin"
I thought this was a really fun song choice for her. Awesome. And I'm so glad the stylists got a hold of her. She seems a lot more comfortable. Still a little awkward with the dancing, but fun. I do disagree with Simon on this one. It wasn't the best song, but it wasn't terrible.
Adam Lambert - "Black and White"This could be cool. I hope it's cool. Please be cool.
COOL! Ok. He's a TOTAL rock star. Truth time - I actually squealed three times. Like a little teenage girl. I didn't love the bridge with the strobe lights, but I really loved the rest of it. Simon just gave him a genuine smile. Wow. I hope people vote for him. I'd hate to see him get Daughtryed. (I just made up that verb. Copyright Macy Robison 2009)
1-866-IDOLS-11
Matt Giraud - "Human Nature"THIS is what I've been waiting for. Someone to put their spin on a song. 1) I love this song. 2) I love that he is playing the piano. 3) I love that he put his own spin on the song. 4) He reminds me of Justin Timberlake. In a good way. He'd be a dead ringer for him if he had a tiny hat on. That was a one squeal performance. 1-866-IDOLS-12
Alexis Grace - "Dirty Diana"Totally forgot about her. Whitney - was it you that said her dad was a blues guitarist? Good call.
This is gonna be cool. Great choice for her. I still can't believe that voice comes out of that tiny little girl. I also can't believe she can walk in those heels. She did oversing. Her little girl is adorable. Wow. Having that phone number might hurt her. 1-866-IDOLS-36
-------------------
I'm voting for:
Adam Lambert & Matt Giraud. I might throw a couple of dials toward Danny & Alexis as well.
Bold Predictions:
Bottom 3 - Jasmine Murray, Jorge Nunez, Anoop Desai
Going Home - Jasmine & Anoop
I'm probably way off. We're at a point in the show where it's unpredictable. Sometimes good people go home because of complacency. People figure the ones who did well are going to be okay, and you get a lot of block votes for people that are well loved but maybe didn't sing well. (What Not To Sing calls this the Sesame Street Effect. You should click over and read about it. Their whole site is awesome.) That's why I think Jorge is going to be okay. He has a whole island voting for him. Vote for the Worst is pushing for Megan Corkrey. They said the "caw caw!" at the end of the performance was a call for them to vote for her. That made me laugh out loud when I read it.
Get out there and vote!
Thursday, March 5, 2009
American Idol - Wild Card
Well, color me surprised! I thought this was a two hour show tonight. But my Tivo says it was a one hour show. Let's get started then.
When Ryan said "Simon, be quiet" in his MC announcer voice, I laughed out loud.
Jesse Langseth - "Tell Me Something Good"
She still bugs me. It's the self-indulgent performance thing. I disagree with Kara. The swagger, if that's what we're going to call it, really bugs me. Simon - I love you. I love it when we agree. She's a totally indulgent performer. I wish I could describe it better. Some people really get into a song and they aren't indulgent. It's like everything she is doing in her performance is to get us to look at her without her connecting with us. It bugs.
Matt Giraud - "Who's Lovin' You"
I'm nervous that he's so early in the show. Maybe since we aren't voting, the lineup isn't as crucial as on a regular performance night. He's channeling Justin Timberlake with that outfit. That was fun. I liked that a lot. The kid has chops. Simon - I hate you. I hate it when we disagree. He sounded nothing like Taylor Hicks.
Megan Corkrey - "Black Horse and the Cherry Tree"
STOP DANCING LIKE THAT. It's okay once or twice at the beginning, but not through the whole song. Just my opinon. This is a good song for her. However, Katharine McPhee's amazing performance of this song is so seared in my brain, that I will always love Katharine the most. Paula is starting with "You look beautiful tonight" and gave us no information. I thought for a second they were all going to hate her. But I think they're determined to keep her regardless. I'm cool with that - Utah in the house!
Von Smith - "Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word"
Not a good start, dude. He sounds shaky. I understand he has to give himself somewhere to go, but it sounded shaky. His mouth is HUGE. Good grief. That was rough. Poor Von. Buh-bye.
Jasmine Murray - "Reflection"
Not sure this was a good choice. They told her to go more R&B-Rhianna-style. A 10-year-old Christina Aguilera song doesn't really fit that image. Plus, I don't think she's been on pitch yet and we're halfway done. She's sitting right under the pitch - especially on the big notes. Maybe it sounds better in the studio. I think they're determined to keep her too. And Paula is determined to pick a fight with Simon tonight.
Ricky Braddy - "Superstition"
I love this song. He's doing a good job, but he may have done too much with the runs on the melody He definitely showed off his voice, but sometimes we just need to sing the melody. He'll be on the edge.
Tatiana Del Toro - "Saving All My Love for You"
Why does she suddenly sound like Celine Dion? Is it me, or does she have a new accent? She is SO flat in this soft part at the beginning. Now that she's into the loud part, it's a little better. For the dramatic mess that she is, she's not as interesting to watch as she should be when she performs. I'm glad she didn't sound good all the way through. If they do pick her, it's for TV and ratings. Hot mess. Not worth putting her through, in my opinion.
Anoop Desai - "My Perogative"
I adore this kid. I hope he does a great job. I love that he's singing Bobby Brown. That's fantastic. He has a great voice and he's just slightly nerdy enough that watching him sing a song like this is ten kinds of awesome. That was very fun. P.S. I just Googled to find out what Anoop was talking about there at the end with Chapel Hill having a hard day - the UNC student body president, Eve Carson, was killed in what appears to be a mugging last night. Pretty sad story. Very cool of Anoop to say something.
The Wild Cards in the Top 12 are:
Jasmine Murray (I disagree a little bit. I think they just wanted a younger girl.)
Megan Corkrey - Yeeah!!! I'm pretty sure they decided they were keeping her ahead of time, but again, I'm cool with that in her case. :)
Cut:
Ricky Braddy
Tatiana Del Toro - She's standing in front of the judges table. Good heavens. Hot mess.
The Tivo cut off the end of the show. I'm off to the internets to find out who the third person is...
And who the FOURTH person is!?!?! What?!? The top 12 is now the top 13! I'm now mad at my Tivo for cutting the ending off.
Cut:
Jesse Langseth (whew! so glad they cut her)
Von Smith (not surprised)
And they kept both Matt Giraud and Anoop Desai! Awesome. I have to say, that's exactly what I would have done too. They were the best ones tonight.
Top 13 next week!! See ya on Tuesday!
When Ryan said "Simon, be quiet" in his MC announcer voice, I laughed out loud.
Jesse Langseth - "Tell Me Something Good"
She still bugs me. It's the self-indulgent performance thing. I disagree with Kara. The swagger, if that's what we're going to call it, really bugs me. Simon - I love you. I love it when we agree. She's a totally indulgent performer. I wish I could describe it better. Some people really get into a song and they aren't indulgent. It's like everything she is doing in her performance is to get us to look at her without her connecting with us. It bugs.
Matt Giraud - "Who's Lovin' You"
I'm nervous that he's so early in the show. Maybe since we aren't voting, the lineup isn't as crucial as on a regular performance night. He's channeling Justin Timberlake with that outfit. That was fun. I liked that a lot. The kid has chops. Simon - I hate you. I hate it when we disagree. He sounded nothing like Taylor Hicks.
Megan Corkrey - "Black Horse and the Cherry Tree"
STOP DANCING LIKE THAT. It's okay once or twice at the beginning, but not through the whole song. Just my opinon. This is a good song for her. However, Katharine McPhee's amazing performance of this song is so seared in my brain, that I will always love Katharine the most. Paula is starting with "You look beautiful tonight" and gave us no information. I thought for a second they were all going to hate her. But I think they're determined to keep her regardless. I'm cool with that - Utah in the house!
Von Smith - "Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word"
Not a good start, dude. He sounds shaky. I understand he has to give himself somewhere to go, but it sounded shaky. His mouth is HUGE. Good grief. That was rough. Poor Von. Buh-bye.
Jasmine Murray - "Reflection"
Not sure this was a good choice. They told her to go more R&B-Rhianna-style. A 10-year-old Christina Aguilera song doesn't really fit that image. Plus, I don't think she's been on pitch yet and we're halfway done. She's sitting right under the pitch - especially on the big notes. Maybe it sounds better in the studio. I think they're determined to keep her too. And Paula is determined to pick a fight with Simon tonight.
Ricky Braddy - "Superstition"
I love this song. He's doing a good job, but he may have done too much with the runs on the melody He definitely showed off his voice, but sometimes we just need to sing the melody. He'll be on the edge.
Tatiana Del Toro - "Saving All My Love for You"
Why does she suddenly sound like Celine Dion? Is it me, or does she have a new accent? She is SO flat in this soft part at the beginning. Now that she's into the loud part, it's a little better. For the dramatic mess that she is, she's not as interesting to watch as she should be when she performs. I'm glad she didn't sound good all the way through. If they do pick her, it's for TV and ratings. Hot mess. Not worth putting her through, in my opinion.
Anoop Desai - "My Perogative"
I adore this kid. I hope he does a great job. I love that he's singing Bobby Brown. That's fantastic. He has a great voice and he's just slightly nerdy enough that watching him sing a song like this is ten kinds of awesome. That was very fun. P.S. I just Googled to find out what Anoop was talking about there at the end with Chapel Hill having a hard day - the UNC student body president, Eve Carson, was killed in what appears to be a mugging last night. Pretty sad story. Very cool of Anoop to say something.
The Wild Cards in the Top 12 are:
Jasmine Murray (I disagree a little bit. I think they just wanted a younger girl.)
Megan Corkrey - Yeeah!!! I'm pretty sure they decided they were keeping her ahead of time, but again, I'm cool with that in her case. :)
Cut:
Ricky Braddy
Tatiana Del Toro - She's standing in front of the judges table. Good heavens. Hot mess.
The Tivo cut off the end of the show. I'm off to the internets to find out who the third person is...
And who the FOURTH person is!?!?! What?!? The top 12 is now the top 13! I'm now mad at my Tivo for cutting the ending off.
Cut:
Jesse Langseth (whew! so glad they cut her)
Von Smith (not surprised)
And they kept both Matt Giraud and Anoop Desai! Awesome. I have to say, that's exactly what I would have done too. They were the best ones tonight.
Top 13 next week!! See ya on Tuesday!
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
American Idol - Top 36, Week 3 Results
Hi, everybody! The last results show before the Top 12! American Idol will be on again tomorrow night - it's the Wild Card performance show and the judges will choose which 3 go on to the top 12. I'm sure they'll explain it at the end of this show.
Audition montage - these are the same formula with different faces. No need to really comment.
Group Performance - "Hot and Cold" by Katy Perry. Here's to never saying never - I never thought a Katy Perry song would be cause for me to have tears in my eyes for any other reason than I don't like her much. (My friend Jenny says her songs stick in your brain like grout - so true.) And yet, I'm sitting here teary eyed watching the choreography changes they implemented so Scott could participate in the song. And he's doing the movements as well as any of them. I just think that is awesome.
Results - Lil Rounds is up first - and she's in! Dial Idol was right on that one.
Arianna & Taylor are not in. But we knew that, didn't we. Alex Wagner-Trugman is out too. (Muah ha ha! Vote for the Worst is 0 for 3!)
Cute little blonde girl whose name I don't remember is standing with Scott MacIntyre. One of them is in - and it's Scott! YES! (Dial Idol had him as the top guy.) Cute that he wanted Ryan to square his shoulders in the middle of the stage. And Scott's super cute brother is in the Coke room with a girl I've never seen who also looks to be visually impaired. Girlfriend, perhaps? CUTE! I just love him. I love his voice and I love that he knows what to do with his body and his gestures to make himself interesting to watch when that must be a really hard thing to do.
Nathaniel and Kristen are standing now. Kristen tried to go down to the stage and Ryan sent her back. (Umm...Kristen. That means you're sitting right down, so you don't need to go downstage.) No for both of them. Sorry kids. Now Felicia and Von are standing up. Bummer. I liked Felicia. I hope they put her through tomorrow. She's one of the strongest girls. But they're both out.
And now it's between Ju'not and Jorge. Dial Idol gives Ju'not a slight lead, but they couldn't say conclusively. I'm happy with either one here. Whatever happens, it's going to make it hard for the guys to get through on the Wild Card show tomorrow. 6 of the 9 through so far are guys. They're going to want to have more girls in there.
Holy cow. I started fast forwarding because I thought Ryan was going to take a commercial break. Dorkface.
It's Jorge! Cute. I like him. Bummer for Ju'not. Again, they'll put more girls through tomorrow.
Now Ryan is going to talk about the Wild Card show. Contestants they liked from past weeks are in the Red Room. I saw Meghan Corkrey up there! Utah in the house!
Back from commercial and we're randomly walking the top 9 down the stairs and to the stools. Why? They moved everyone upstairs. 8 of the contestants waiting upstairs will come back and sing tomorrow night. Simon is talking about how important the wild card choices are to make things more fair. Mentions that Jennifer Hudson and Clay Aiken were both wild cards. So was Carmen Rasmusen. She ended up doing pretty well.
Von Smith is the first one. Wow. Surprised. He did a good job last night though. I can't believe how huge his mouth is when he sings.
Jasmine Murray is next. Not surprised. I knew they liked her. They need a commercial, young girl in there. I hope she picks a better song this time. She stunk last time.
Ricky Braddy is third. He was awesome. He was on a rough show.
Meghan Corkrey!!! Wooooooo!!!! Awesome.
Man. I feel badly for the people who were flown back in for this and aren't going to be picked. And I feel REALLY bad for the five people who won't make it through tomorrow. Also, I thought the judges were going to pick from 12 people, but it makes sense that they are going to choose from a group of 8. They have to pick the final 3 tomorrow night and they'll need time in the show to announce that.
Person number 5 is...Tatiana Del Toro. I knew they would put her though. Boooo...she's is such a hot mess. Good grief. She does have a good voice, but what a mess.
Matt Giraud!!! YES!!! I love him. I wanted to punch him for his song choice last time, but if he sings in his style, he's amazing. I hope he does well.
Jesse Langseth. That surprises me. She was a last minute change, evidently. I really, really want to know who they switched her for.
ANOOP!!! I knew they'd bring him back. He was in a tough group too. Rickey at Rickey.org is SO excited right now.
Boo. I wish they had put Felicia Barton through instead of Jesse, Tatiana or Jasmine. And I'm a little surprised they picked 4 guys and 4 girls. Not that there were stronger girls to put in there. Other than Felicia, of course.
Tomorrow will be....interesting. See you then!
Audition montage - these are the same formula with different faces. No need to really comment.
Group Performance - "Hot and Cold" by Katy Perry. Here's to never saying never - I never thought a Katy Perry song would be cause for me to have tears in my eyes for any other reason than I don't like her much. (My friend Jenny says her songs stick in your brain like grout - so true.) And yet, I'm sitting here teary eyed watching the choreography changes they implemented so Scott could participate in the song. And he's doing the movements as well as any of them. I just think that is awesome.
Results - Lil Rounds is up first - and she's in! Dial Idol was right on that one.
Arianna & Taylor are not in. But we knew that, didn't we. Alex Wagner-Trugman is out too. (Muah ha ha! Vote for the Worst is 0 for 3!)
Cute little blonde girl whose name I don't remember is standing with Scott MacIntyre. One of them is in - and it's Scott! YES! (Dial Idol had him as the top guy.) Cute that he wanted Ryan to square his shoulders in the middle of the stage. And Scott's super cute brother is in the Coke room with a girl I've never seen who also looks to be visually impaired. Girlfriend, perhaps? CUTE! I just love him. I love his voice and I love that he knows what to do with his body and his gestures to make himself interesting to watch when that must be a really hard thing to do.
Nathaniel and Kristen are standing now. Kristen tried to go down to the stage and Ryan sent her back. (Umm...Kristen. That means you're sitting right down, so you don't need to go downstage.) No for both of them. Sorry kids. Now Felicia and Von are standing up. Bummer. I liked Felicia. I hope they put her through tomorrow. She's one of the strongest girls. But they're both out.
And now it's between Ju'not and Jorge. Dial Idol gives Ju'not a slight lead, but they couldn't say conclusively. I'm happy with either one here. Whatever happens, it's going to make it hard for the guys to get through on the Wild Card show tomorrow. 6 of the 9 through so far are guys. They're going to want to have more girls in there.
Holy cow. I started fast forwarding because I thought Ryan was going to take a commercial break. Dorkface.
It's Jorge! Cute. I like him. Bummer for Ju'not. Again, they'll put more girls through tomorrow.
Now Ryan is going to talk about the Wild Card show. Contestants they liked from past weeks are in the Red Room. I saw Meghan Corkrey up there! Utah in the house!
Back from commercial and we're randomly walking the top 9 down the stairs and to the stools. Why? They moved everyone upstairs. 8 of the contestants waiting upstairs will come back and sing tomorrow night. Simon is talking about how important the wild card choices are to make things more fair. Mentions that Jennifer Hudson and Clay Aiken were both wild cards. So was Carmen Rasmusen. She ended up doing pretty well.
Von Smith is the first one. Wow. Surprised. He did a good job last night though. I can't believe how huge his mouth is when he sings.
Jasmine Murray is next. Not surprised. I knew they liked her. They need a commercial, young girl in there. I hope she picks a better song this time. She stunk last time.
Ricky Braddy is third. He was awesome. He was on a rough show.
Meghan Corkrey!!! Wooooooo!!!! Awesome.
Man. I feel badly for the people who were flown back in for this and aren't going to be picked. And I feel REALLY bad for the five people who won't make it through tomorrow. Also, I thought the judges were going to pick from 12 people, but it makes sense that they are going to choose from a group of 8. They have to pick the final 3 tomorrow night and they'll need time in the show to announce that.
Person number 5 is...Tatiana Del Toro. I knew they would put her though. Boooo...she's is such a hot mess. Good grief. She does have a good voice, but what a mess.
Matt Giraud!!! YES!!! I love him. I wanted to punch him for his song choice last time, but if he sings in his style, he's amazing. I hope he does well.
Jesse Langseth. That surprises me. She was a last minute change, evidently. I really, really want to know who they switched her for.
ANOOP!!! I knew they'd bring him back. He was in a tough group too. Rickey at Rickey.org is SO excited right now.
Boo. I wish they had put Felicia Barton through instead of Jesse, Tatiana or Jasmine. And I'm a little surprised they picked 4 guys and 4 girls. Not that there were stronger girls to put in there. Other than Felicia, of course.
Tomorrow will be....interesting. See you then!
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
American Idol - Top 36, Week 3
It's the last group we get to vote for, America! Pay attention!
Von Smith "You're All I Need"
I applaud his bravery. He's not such an awkward dancer as we have seen in the past. It's a pretty rangy song and he hasn't done anything glaringly horrible yet. I'm not sure I like it, but I don't hate it. His sister is somewhat unfortunate looking. If he's in the first spot, the rest of the show must be great, right?!
Taylor Vaifanua - "If I Ain't Got You"
Utah in the house!! I feel bad that she's the first girl. I hoped she would have a more prominent spot. Her low range is great. I don't like how forced her vibrato is. And her head voice isn't great. Simon is going to say this was a forgettable performance. Wow - she should not have sung a song she already did. I was right about Simon. I rule. And wow - Ryan is short.
Alex Wagner-Trugman - "I Guess That's Why They Call it the Blues"
Ummm....who? Not sure this is a good song choice. He's sung the first line, and I can tell you that it isn't a good song choice. Also, stay at the microphone. And no you DIDN'T just rewrite an Elton John melody. Boo Doop! to you. I really don't want to hear him growl during the "under the covers" lyric. I'm not sure if he did in fact growl that part, but based on the other growling he did during the song, I'm guessing he might. And I just don't want to hear it.
Arianna Afsar - "The Winner Takes it All"
Don't remember her in the auditions. Not sure about this song choice. It's kind of a depressing, old song. She's doing too much with her head voice for me. She's a little flat on the big notes. And she had the ending note for a bit and then she cracked it out. Poor thing. She's cute. I like her.
I'm really not loving this show.
Ju'not Joyner - "Hey There Delilah"
Cutest kid I've ever seen besides G-Man. I wish they had shown him more through the auditions. I like this arrangement of the song so far. Nice! I like this better than the original song. He's my favorite so far.
That helped the show get a little better. Crazies after the break! Nathaniel & Kristen!
Kristen McNamara - "Give Me One Reason"
She's actually got the chops to sing this. I hope I don't hate it. The fact that she is a karaoke host is kind of glaring at me right now. Her dress is awful. I don't love the arrangement. The band sounds stupid to me. She's got a good voice, but I don't love the performance. I don't hate it completely, but I don't love it. And thanks to Randy for validating my karaoke feelings.
Nathaniel Marshall - "I Would Do Anything for Love"
Cry baby crazy piercing boy is up. Ummm....Nathaniel....there's a reason no one has ever sung this song on the show. It's stupid. I'm sorry to say this, but this is way too reminiscent of a drag queen performance right now. Between the song, the sparkly blue headband, the lighting and the horrid dancing. And yes, I do know of what I speak. :)
Felicia Barton - "No One"
The Replacement! I'm totally rooting for her. I love this song. I hope she kills it. Weird that she looks a little like Alicia Keys. Ack! She cracked! Overall though, this is another favorite of mine. I can't believe they cut her. Especially now I've heard most of the other girls. 1-866-IDOLS-08
Scott MacIntyre - "Mandolin Rain"
I really love this song. It isn't done much. Glad he's sitting down. I wish he could play the piano on this. I'm nervous that he stood up. I'm sure he knows how many steps to the end of the stage, but still...it's distracting me a little. He's got a great voice. How fun to watch him do this well!! So cool. This is the most energy anyone has gotten from the audience tonight.
Vote for Scott!! And cutest ever that he gave Ryan a high five. Love it. What a cool guy with a great sense of humor and sense of self. 1-866-IDOLS-09.
Kendall Beard - "This One's For the Girls"
Carrie Underwood clone. She's just too cute for words. And this is really a great song. Her low range is a little shaky. And so is her high range. Yikes. Not good. Ouch. Props to her for doing what she is supposed to do - show us who she are and what kind of artist she will be.
Jorge Nunez - "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me"
He's got an outstanding voice. Seriously great pipes. I don't love this song, but he really sang it well. And after his exchange with the judges, I find him much more endearing. I'd love to see both he and Scott make it through. But I liked Ju'not. I'm torn. This is another strong year for the guys. 1-866-IDOLS-11
Lil Rounds - "Be Without You"
Such a great song. She seems a little nervous. I want to see some more sass. It's getting better as the song goes on. Nice on the last note. Got to have chops to sing Mary J. Totally deserved the pimp spot. And nice to have a girl sing so well. Paula - no jokes from you. Please. 1-866-IDOLS-12
My favorites were Scott, Lil, Jorge, Felicia and Ju'not. I hate having this many favorites when only three people go through.
Vote for the Worst is definitely voting for Nathaniel tonight. Wow - I just checked their website and I'm wrong. They're voting for Alex Wagner-Trugman. Still, none of their picks have gotten through. Let's keep it that way, America.
Von Smith "You're All I Need"
I applaud his bravery. He's not such an awkward dancer as we have seen in the past. It's a pretty rangy song and he hasn't done anything glaringly horrible yet. I'm not sure I like it, but I don't hate it. His sister is somewhat unfortunate looking. If he's in the first spot, the rest of the show must be great, right?!
Taylor Vaifanua - "If I Ain't Got You"
Utah in the house!! I feel bad that she's the first girl. I hoped she would have a more prominent spot. Her low range is great. I don't like how forced her vibrato is. And her head voice isn't great. Simon is going to say this was a forgettable performance. Wow - she should not have sung a song she already did. I was right about Simon. I rule. And wow - Ryan is short.
Alex Wagner-Trugman - "I Guess That's Why They Call it the Blues"
Ummm....who? Not sure this is a good song choice. He's sung the first line, and I can tell you that it isn't a good song choice. Also, stay at the microphone. And no you DIDN'T just rewrite an Elton John melody. Boo Doop! to you. I really don't want to hear him growl during the "under the covers" lyric. I'm not sure if he did in fact growl that part, but based on the other growling he did during the song, I'm guessing he might. And I just don't want to hear it.
Arianna Afsar - "The Winner Takes it All"
Don't remember her in the auditions. Not sure about this song choice. It's kind of a depressing, old song. She's doing too much with her head voice for me. She's a little flat on the big notes. And she had the ending note for a bit and then she cracked it out. Poor thing. She's cute. I like her.
I'm really not loving this show.
Ju'not Joyner - "Hey There Delilah"
Cutest kid I've ever seen besides G-Man. I wish they had shown him more through the auditions. I like this arrangement of the song so far. Nice! I like this better than the original song. He's my favorite so far.
That helped the show get a little better. Crazies after the break! Nathaniel & Kristen!
Kristen McNamara - "Give Me One Reason"
She's actually got the chops to sing this. I hope I don't hate it. The fact that she is a karaoke host is kind of glaring at me right now. Her dress is awful. I don't love the arrangement. The band sounds stupid to me. She's got a good voice, but I don't love the performance. I don't hate it completely, but I don't love it. And thanks to Randy for validating my karaoke feelings.
Nathaniel Marshall - "I Would Do Anything for Love"
Cry baby crazy piercing boy is up. Ummm....Nathaniel....there's a reason no one has ever sung this song on the show. It's stupid. I'm sorry to say this, but this is way too reminiscent of a drag queen performance right now. Between the song, the sparkly blue headband, the lighting and the horrid dancing. And yes, I do know of what I speak. :)
Felicia Barton - "No One"
The Replacement! I'm totally rooting for her. I love this song. I hope she kills it. Weird that she looks a little like Alicia Keys. Ack! She cracked! Overall though, this is another favorite of mine. I can't believe they cut her. Especially now I've heard most of the other girls. 1-866-IDOLS-08
Scott MacIntyre - "Mandolin Rain"
I really love this song. It isn't done much. Glad he's sitting down. I wish he could play the piano on this. I'm nervous that he stood up. I'm sure he knows how many steps to the end of the stage, but still...it's distracting me a little. He's got a great voice. How fun to watch him do this well!! So cool. This is the most energy anyone has gotten from the audience tonight.
Vote for Scott!! And cutest ever that he gave Ryan a high five. Love it. What a cool guy with a great sense of humor and sense of self. 1-866-IDOLS-09.
Kendall Beard - "This One's For the Girls"
Carrie Underwood clone. She's just too cute for words. And this is really a great song. Her low range is a little shaky. And so is her high range. Yikes. Not good. Ouch. Props to her for doing what she is supposed to do - show us who she are and what kind of artist she will be.
Jorge Nunez - "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me"
He's got an outstanding voice. Seriously great pipes. I don't love this song, but he really sang it well. And after his exchange with the judges, I find him much more endearing. I'd love to see both he and Scott make it through. But I liked Ju'not. I'm torn. This is another strong year for the guys. 1-866-IDOLS-11
Lil Rounds - "Be Without You"
Such a great song. She seems a little nervous. I want to see some more sass. It's getting better as the song goes on. Nice on the last note. Got to have chops to sing Mary J. Totally deserved the pimp spot. And nice to have a girl sing so well. Paula - no jokes from you. Please. 1-866-IDOLS-12
My favorites were Scott, Lil, Jorge, Felicia and Ju'not. I hate having this many favorites when only three people go through.
Vote for the Worst is definitely voting for Nathaniel tonight. Wow - I just checked their website and I'm wrong. They're voting for Alex Wagner-Trugman. Still, none of their picks have gotten through. Let's keep it that way, America.
ATGDTW - Mar. 3, 2009
Awesome Things G-Man Did This Week - March 3, 2009
1. We walked out of church yesterday and it was snowing. I said, "Look! Snow! Catch it!" and pretended to catch snowflakes with my hand. He yelled, "Snow! Catch it!" and tried to grab it like I was and laughed and laughed. Then all the way home he kept yelling, "Mama! Snow! Catch it!"
2. I've started making him choose one of his animal blankets (monkey, giraffe, duck) that he can take with him when he gets out of bed in the morning. (He usually chooses the monkey.) He says "night-night! bye-bye!" to the animals he is leaving behind.
3. This one isn't so terribly awesome, just a sign that he is getting older. When he wants something, he's started asking me multiple times for it. Even when I say no. He's also started to smile and look hopeful when he asks. And a couple times, he threw himself on the floor and started to cry when I said no...hopefully he'll realize soon that theatrics don't play well with Diggity or I.
And because we must have a picture...
1. We walked out of church yesterday and it was snowing. I said, "Look! Snow! Catch it!" and pretended to catch snowflakes with my hand. He yelled, "Snow! Catch it!" and tried to grab it like I was and laughed and laughed. Then all the way home he kept yelling, "Mama! Snow! Catch it!"
2. I've started making him choose one of his animal blankets (monkey, giraffe, duck) that he can take with him when he gets out of bed in the morning. (He usually chooses the monkey.) He says "night-night! bye-bye!" to the animals he is leaving behind.
3. This one isn't so terribly awesome, just a sign that he is getting older. When he wants something, he's started asking me multiple times for it. Even when I say no. He's also started to smile and look hopeful when he asks. And a couple times, he threw himself on the floor and started to cry when I said no...hopefully he'll realize soon that theatrics don't play well with Diggity or I.
And because we must have a picture...
Monday, March 2, 2009
New Books to Read
So many new books to read! Cousin Ann Dee's new book came out:
Her first book just came out in paperback. It's the bees knees. You should buy it and read it.
Just finished reading this novel, written by of one of my best, dearest friends from high school.
It's a really fun, creative story. You should get this one too.
And here's one more - I have yet to read it, because it comes out tomorrow, but I'm going to read it. Julie Berry is from my area and just had this amazing article published about her on the front page of the Sunday Boston Globe (and cousin Ann Dee got a mention too! Hurray!). This is Julie's book:
It looks wonderful and I'm so excited to read it. She's launching the book here in Massachusetts this week, and you lucky Utahns can go meet her and go to her book signing this Friday in Salt Lake. Here's the info:
Her first book just came out in paperback. It's the bees knees. You should buy it and read it.
Just finished reading this novel, written by of one of my best, dearest friends from high school.
It's a really fun, creative story. You should get this one too.
And here's one more - I have yet to read it, because it comes out tomorrow, but I'm going to read it. Julie Berry is from my area and just had this amazing article published about her on the front page of the Sunday Boston Globe (and cousin Ann Dee got a mention too! Hurray!). This is Julie's book:
It looks wonderful and I'm so excited to read it. She's launching the book here in Massachusetts this week, and you lucky Utahns can go meet her and go to her book signing this Friday in Salt Lake. Here's the info:
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