Songs from the Year You (They) Were Born. . .

Last night’s AI highlighted “Songs from the Year You Were Born”, you being each contestant. . . which basically became “Songs from the 80’s”.

Ramiele came out first singing “Alone” from 1987 --- this little pixie is SO cute, and adorable and she absolutely wowed me during auditions, but she has not only NOT improved, I think her audition was a lucky fluke for her. Not so lucky for us because, as we already know, the HUGE Filipino contingency will keep her in the contest long after she should have gone home.

Jason was next, singing Sting’s “Fragile” from 1987. It was nice, I love the song, don’t know if he really could have changed it without killing it but if he’s to stay in the contest, he HAS to bring his “Hallelujah” abilities each week.

Syesha chose “If I Were Your Woman” from 1987 --- she was much better than last week (apologies to my sister who was blown away by her performance this week), but I’m not sure it will be enough to keep her here. She’s already been in the bottom three.

“If Only” from 1985 was Chikezie’s selection last night. He sang it perfectly --- perfect pitch, great phrasing. I really loved it but I’m not sure he’s a fan favorite.

Brooke tried for a repeat of her “Let it Be” performance by sitting at the piano for “Every Breath You Take” from the Police in 1983. I will say this: I hated it the least of all her performances. Kudos for beginning again, because you pretty much can’t fix it if you start off-key unless you just stop and start over. Could have put your ear to the keyboard and played that first note for yourself just before the camera got to you, but what can I say?

The Michael Johns we saw during Hollywood Week was back last night! He sang “We Will Rock You” from 1978 (one of only three songs last night NOT from the 80’s). It seemed as if some kind of weight was lifted from him --- he was lighter and looked as if he was enjoying being onstage. Hope it continues!

Carly sang “Turn Around” from 1983 --- not one of my favorite songs, thanks to the over-play it got on the radio at that time. She did a pretty good job, but it was not her best performance by far.

Little David sang “You’re the Voice” from 1990 --- I’m not sure there were more than ½ dozen people in the audience, including the judges, who had ever heard it. Nevertheless, as Randy commented, David could sing the phone book and make us want to go out and buy it. He definitely chooses his songs for their content and what they mean to him, not because he thinks the audience will like them. As usual, except for that one time, a flawless performance.

Lil’ Kristy Lee came out and proved that she has a brain (or she at least listened to someone else who has a brain). She chose “God Bless the USA” from 1984. She didn’t have to sing every note on-key (and good thing, because she DIDN’T) and she didn’t even have to remember the words because who’s NOT going to vote for her when she sings a song like that??? As Simon said “Brilliant song choice” however, if he DIDN’T say it was a brilliant performance. It wasn’t.

Last night they saved the best for last: David Cook sang “Billy Jean” from 1982. When I heard which song he was to perform, in my head I said “Whaaa??” I couldn’t imagine him singing a Michael Jackson hit. Boy, was I wrong!! He did to “Billy Jean” what Daughtry did to “Walk the Line”. For close to 30 seconds I wasn’t even sure what song he was singing. He sang it well, he definitely made it his own, and I’d listen to it on my iPod (and will) even though I’m not a particular fan of MJ (he creeps me out).

I ranked the performances as follows:
1. David Cook
2. David Archuleta
3. Michael
4. Chikiezie
5. Jason
6. Carly
7. Brooke
8. Syesha
9. Ramiele
10. Kristy

I’m guessing Syesha, Carly and Chikezie are in the bottom three tonight, not because they belong there, (my choices would be Kristy, Syesha and Ramiele). Even thought Kristy Lee should go home (followed closely by Ramiele) I think they’ll eliminate Syesha or Chikezie tonight.