I wasn’t sure how Neil Diamond week would be. . . heck, I haven’t been sure about ANY of the mentors so far. . .
The show, as you know if you watched, was TOTALLY unsettled. This is the first week of two songs per contestant --- I think they should wait until it’s down to four or even three to do the two-song thing. Everyone and everything was SO rushed!! Run onstage, sing, Ryan practically shoves you offstage, next contestant on. . . no time for one-on-one judging of the first performances, which was DEFINITELY a problem with poor Paula.
Each contestant was shown rehearsing with Neil Diamond, announcing which two songs they would sing. Then we got to hear what Neil thought about each person and how he felt they would do.
Jason started with “Forever in Blue Jeans”. I thought he looked more comfortable than he ever has onstage, I enjoyed his rendition and also thought it was much stronger than last week. Loved when he showed his lower register.
David was next with “I’m Alive” --- Neil mentioned that David’s rendition had given him goose bumps. Ditto with me.
Brooke sang “I’m a Believer” (who would have guessed?). I was actually pleasantly surprised that she didn’t overdo the theatrics like I expected. However, the lyric is “not a trace” --- Brooke sang “without a trace” which is a TV show, not the lyric from this song.
Lil’ David sang “Sweet Caroline” --- I really liked the way he changed it up. His voice, as always, was strong and pure, every note on key.
Syesha wrapped up the first round of performances with “Hello”. Technically it was well sung, but this song is sad and melancholy, rather plaintive. Syesha smiled and mugged for the camera during her performance and kind of ruined the song for me.
If you didn’t see the show, they mentioned in each clip of contestant and Neil time that each person would sing two songs and which songs they would sing. To further throw everything off, they waited until everyone had sung one song, brought everyone out, and had each judge to a VERY short critique on each person.
When it was Paula’s turn, she started with Jason, gave a few words about his performance, and then launched into “then your second song. . . “ Simon tried to stop her (which Paula mistook for Simon’s regular antics), then Randy interrupted her by saying that they were just critiquing the first song. Paula looked stunned and actually uttered “oh, I thought you sang twice already”.
I racked it up to Paula’s natural wackiness, coupled with the frenetic pace of the show. Some viewers are seeing Paula’s flub last night as “proof” that the show is rigged. However, judges DO watch the rehearsals, and Paula’s notes MAY have been taken at that time. But, there’s no telling where Paula’s head is at. . . ever!! Total space cadet!
Ryan moved the show rapidly into round two. Jason chose “September Morn” for his second song of the night. I enjoyed this performance, too, although Jason’s attempts at moving around the stage are still really awkward. He could have performed this song while seated and it would have been as if not more effective.
David sang “All I Really Need is You” -- another stellar performance!! If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a million times --- this guy BETTER end up winning, or at the very least in the top 2.
Brooke returned to her safety zone behind the piano and sang “I Am, I Said” --- I don’t want to keep harping on Brooke but she chose quite possibly the MOST difficult song to sing, shook like a leaf, has now affected this weird over-vibrato in her voice and how did she think she would be able to see the lyrics she wrote on her palm if she was playing the piano??? Maybe Brooke’s operating with the other half of Paula’s brain!!
Lil’ David’s second song choice was “America” --- anyone who thought he wouldn’t choose this is on crack, although I don’t think he chose this song as a smart move, like Simon wanted the public to think --- totally opposite from Kristy Lee’s strategy with her earlier plea to patriotic America. David chose this song because of his beliefs, not because he thought more people might vote for him. After all, it’s about COMING to America (as in immigrants) and not all Americans are in favor of ANYONE coming to their country (“they’re taking all our jobs”, “they’re sitting around collecting welfare”). So, if you think about it, choosing that song may have been a RISKY move.
Syesha wrapped up the night by singing “I Thank the Lord for the Night Time”. It was a solid, Broadway-esque performance. Not enough to take her to the finals.
My choices for Bottom 2: Brooke and Syesha.
I predict American will send” Brooke and Jason.
I HOPE Brooke will go home, but I fear Jason will leave first and we’re gonna have to listen to Brooke for possibly one or even two more weeks.
Not as bad as Kristy Lee, but close. . .
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Thursday, April 24, 2008
One, Two, Three Shocks --- Carly's Out!!
Sorry about the lateness of this posting --- I hate it when my job gets in the way of my personal activities!!!
Last night’s show opened with the surprising announcement that IDG has only raised $65 million so far --- not nearly as much as last year. What’s up with that? What if they start charging $1 for each vote call/text and raise money that way??
Tonight’s Ford commercial was fabulous!!! They even managed to make Lil’ David look halfway tough!!
After a short, awkward session with Lord ALW (not very comfortable in front of an audience) and a rehash of the previous night’s performances, Ryan dove right into the announcements.
The “Davids” were brought out first and very quickly pronounced “safe”. How either one could have thought there was even a chance at their elimination, I don’t know, yet Lil’ David looks amazed each week that he’s declared safe. Does he doubt his own talent??
The camera catches Jason yawning backstage --- unfortunate for someone who could very well be going home that night!
Next, we’re treated with a segment about past Idol contestants on Broadway. . . both of them. Clay Aiken in “Spamalot” and Tamyra Gray in “Rent”. Clay’s hair looks atrocious and thankfully it’s just for the role; the photo on his new release shows a much better ‘do.
After the visit to Broadway we’re treated to Simon’s newest discovery: Leona Lewis. She’s gorgeous and sings like a goddess --- my daughter remarks that she might be the next Mariah, only not slutty.
Brooke and Syesha are beckoned onto the stage. Syesha fully expects to end up on the Bottom 2 stools, and Brooke looks like she knows she’ll be going home that night. In the night’s first shocker, Brooke is declared safe --- and at that moment, no one is more surprised than Brooke herself!! I’m thinking it must have been the sympathy vote.
Poor Syesha is relegated to the stools again.
Carly and Jason are called out next. Jason is convinced he’s the other half of the Bottom 2 and even possibly going home. His only discernable comment is that he refuses to sing again.
In the night’s second shocker, Jason is declared safe and Carly, now the other half of the Bottom 2, is asked to reprise her performance from the night before.
Carly belts out another great rendition of “Jesus Christ Superstar”, then is sent to the stools. Syesha also repeats her performance from the night before. This time she puts a little more “theatre” into it, but is also a little lackluster. It’s almost as if she thinks she must be going home if it’s between her and Carly.
Carly and Ryan are caught in a frame kibitzing during Syesha’s performance, which is pitchy and sloppy.
And then the third shocker of the night: Carly is told she’s going home and Syesha is safe. Brooke and Jason look shell shocked and a little sheepish --- they both know it should have been one of them.
Carly looks oddly at peace with the decision (think a label’s already been talking with her?). No sobbing, no tears. She knows she’ll be okay.
Neil Diamond is next week’s mentor.
And Brooke is the new Kristy Lee.
Last night’s show opened with the surprising announcement that IDG has only raised $65 million so far --- not nearly as much as last year. What’s up with that? What if they start charging $1 for each vote call/text and raise money that way??
Tonight’s Ford commercial was fabulous!!! They even managed to make Lil’ David look halfway tough!!
After a short, awkward session with Lord ALW (not very comfortable in front of an audience) and a rehash of the previous night’s performances, Ryan dove right into the announcements.
The “Davids” were brought out first and very quickly pronounced “safe”. How either one could have thought there was even a chance at their elimination, I don’t know, yet Lil’ David looks amazed each week that he’s declared safe. Does he doubt his own talent??
The camera catches Jason yawning backstage --- unfortunate for someone who could very well be going home that night!
Next, we’re treated with a segment about past Idol contestants on Broadway. . . both of them. Clay Aiken in “Spamalot” and Tamyra Gray in “Rent”. Clay’s hair looks atrocious and thankfully it’s just for the role; the photo on his new release shows a much better ‘do.
After the visit to Broadway we’re treated to Simon’s newest discovery: Leona Lewis. She’s gorgeous and sings like a goddess --- my daughter remarks that she might be the next Mariah, only not slutty.
Brooke and Syesha are beckoned onto the stage. Syesha fully expects to end up on the Bottom 2 stools, and Brooke looks like she knows she’ll be going home that night. In the night’s first shocker, Brooke is declared safe --- and at that moment, no one is more surprised than Brooke herself!! I’m thinking it must have been the sympathy vote.
Poor Syesha is relegated to the stools again.
Carly and Jason are called out next. Jason is convinced he’s the other half of the Bottom 2 and even possibly going home. His only discernable comment is that he refuses to sing again.
In the night’s second shocker, Jason is declared safe and Carly, now the other half of the Bottom 2, is asked to reprise her performance from the night before.
Carly belts out another great rendition of “Jesus Christ Superstar”, then is sent to the stools. Syesha also repeats her performance from the night before. This time she puts a little more “theatre” into it, but is also a little lackluster. It’s almost as if she thinks she must be going home if it’s between her and Carly.
Carly and Ryan are caught in a frame kibitzing during Syesha’s performance, which is pitchy and sloppy.
And then the third shocker of the night: Carly is told she’s going home and Syesha is safe. Brooke and Jason look shell shocked and a little sheepish --- they both know it should have been one of them.
Carly looks oddly at peace with the decision (think a label’s already been talking with her?). No sobbing, no tears. She knows she’ll be okay.
Neil Diamond is next week’s mentor.
And Brooke is the new Kristy Lee.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Lordie!! It's LORD Andrew Lloyd Webber!!
And the mentor tonight is. . . LORD Andrew Lloyd Webber. Why?? How are they going to NOT sound Broadway, singing Broadway? Or, should they be presumptuous enough to CHANGE music written by one of the most prolific songwriter/lyricists known to man??? Talk about between a rock and a hard place. . .
And watching the montage for Lord ALW I felt a little sorry for him. He started out as a rather unfortunate looking child, morphed into an awkward pre-teen, then into a rather cute teenager, then a fast downhill slide into the caricature that is today's Andrew Lloyd Webber.
On to the contestants who were charged with an impossible task this week. . .
Syesha bravely (and wisely) chose “One Rock and Roll Too Many”. Brave because she totally ignored any of the advice given her by Lord Webber, wise because it was one of his more obscure pieces. She looked gorgeous, Simon pronounced her sexy, and technically her performance was great, but she didn’t bring the feelings and emotion into the song that I think she could have.
Jason was up next, singing “Memories”. I love Jason, but I knew he was in trouble when he admitted that not only had he never seen any of the musicals the songs were pulled from, he didn’t even know the context of the song he chose. Someone get him a computer and show him “Google”. First, I can’t believe someone could be into music and not have a wider knowledge of music in general. Second, I can’t believe that he wasn’t even aware of the origin of the song (I’ve never seen “Cats”, either, but I know full well where the song comes from and what the play is about.) Third, I can’t believe he wouldn’t have researched it before he performed. I hope it’s not too late for him to have learned that lesson.
At this point in the show, I was wondering how many time we would hear the ridiculous comment “it’s not your style of music”??? Come on. . . how many of these kids would have CHOSEN to sing a Broadway tune?? With all the talk of having to prove themselves as a pop idol??? Make some sense, here, folks!!
Brooke provided the best Lord ALW comment of the night. (And, by the way, I loved him, because he didn’t hold back, didn’t try to be so BLOODY politically correct and nice to everyone. If he wasn’t sure how someone would do, he didn’t candy-coat his comments. Must be the British influence.)
We had to put the show on “pause” when he said: “I don’t think that girl had a CLUE about what she was singing about.” He was correct, even when Brooke commented that she “got it” after their piano chat.
Her song choice was “You Must Love Me”. Once again, Brooke’s nerves got the best of her --- she started, then realized several phrases into the song that she had forgotten the lyrics, stopped the orchestra and asked them to begin again. Brave? I think so (as did Simon). But this debacle caused Paula to utter the first ever absolutely honest, un-whitewashed comment ever heard from her mouth: never, never stop and start over. Naturally, after having to begin again, Brooke lost sight of what the song was about, she never stopped shaking and the performance was a complete disaster.
I don’t think Brooke has what it takes to be a professional performer --- too, too overly sensitive.
Lil’ David was in his element --- the only performer brave enough to change up the music. He kept the feeling and the theme of the original, yet made it appealing to a broader audience. This kid could make Broadway “cool” to a whole new group of music lovers!! Fabulous and fierce!!
Carly came out in a fantastic outfit that not only suited her personality, it made her look like a star!! She chose “All I Ask of You” but was persuaded to change to “Jesus Christ Superstar” by Lord Webber. Thankfully, she listened. It was an excellent choice for her and an excellent performance.
David closed the show with “Music of the Night” and also with the surprise (to me) that he had participated in musical theatre most of his life. Somehow, I didn’t see him as the theatre type. Boy, was I wrong!! David’s performance: I loved it, loved it. P.S. I loved it.
I feel he truly delivered not only the technical part of the song but the emotion. Almost at the end, when he opened his eyes to look directly into the camera, an audible sigh was heard in our living room. He was absolutely dreamy last night!!
My choice for Bottom 2: Brooke and Jason. I’ll be shocked if I’m wrong. And Brooke should be sent home. She just doesn’t have what it takes. She could be a coffeehouse singer, in front of small groups, with lots of family and friends telling her how great she sounds. She’s not capable of taking the reality of having a music career.
And watching the montage for Lord ALW I felt a little sorry for him. He started out as a rather unfortunate looking child, morphed into an awkward pre-teen, then into a rather cute teenager, then a fast downhill slide into the caricature that is today's Andrew Lloyd Webber.
On to the contestants who were charged with an impossible task this week. . .
Syesha bravely (and wisely) chose “One Rock and Roll Too Many”. Brave because she totally ignored any of the advice given her by Lord Webber, wise because it was one of his more obscure pieces. She looked gorgeous, Simon pronounced her sexy, and technically her performance was great, but she didn’t bring the feelings and emotion into the song that I think she could have.
Jason was up next, singing “Memories”. I love Jason, but I knew he was in trouble when he admitted that not only had he never seen any of the musicals the songs were pulled from, he didn’t even know the context of the song he chose. Someone get him a computer and show him “Google”. First, I can’t believe someone could be into music and not have a wider knowledge of music in general. Second, I can’t believe that he wasn’t even aware of the origin of the song (I’ve never seen “Cats”, either, but I know full well where the song comes from and what the play is about.) Third, I can’t believe he wouldn’t have researched it before he performed. I hope it’s not too late for him to have learned that lesson.
At this point in the show, I was wondering how many time we would hear the ridiculous comment “it’s not your style of music”??? Come on. . . how many of these kids would have CHOSEN to sing a Broadway tune?? With all the talk of having to prove themselves as a pop idol??? Make some sense, here, folks!!
Brooke provided the best Lord ALW comment of the night. (And, by the way, I loved him, because he didn’t hold back, didn’t try to be so BLOODY politically correct and nice to everyone. If he wasn’t sure how someone would do, he didn’t candy-coat his comments. Must be the British influence.)
We had to put the show on “pause” when he said: “I don’t think that girl had a CLUE about what she was singing about.” He was correct, even when Brooke commented that she “got it” after their piano chat.
Her song choice was “You Must Love Me”. Once again, Brooke’s nerves got the best of her --- she started, then realized several phrases into the song that she had forgotten the lyrics, stopped the orchestra and asked them to begin again. Brave? I think so (as did Simon). But this debacle caused Paula to utter the first ever absolutely honest, un-whitewashed comment ever heard from her mouth: never, never stop and start over. Naturally, after having to begin again, Brooke lost sight of what the song was about, she never stopped shaking and the performance was a complete disaster.
I don’t think Brooke has what it takes to be a professional performer --- too, too overly sensitive.
Lil’ David was in his element --- the only performer brave enough to change up the music. He kept the feeling and the theme of the original, yet made it appealing to a broader audience. This kid could make Broadway “cool” to a whole new group of music lovers!! Fabulous and fierce!!
Carly came out in a fantastic outfit that not only suited her personality, it made her look like a star!! She chose “All I Ask of You” but was persuaded to change to “Jesus Christ Superstar” by Lord Webber. Thankfully, she listened. It was an excellent choice for her and an excellent performance.
David closed the show with “Music of the Night” and also with the surprise (to me) that he had participated in musical theatre most of his life. Somehow, I didn’t see him as the theatre type. Boy, was I wrong!! David’s performance: I loved it, loved it. P.S. I loved it.
I feel he truly delivered not only the technical part of the song but the emotion. Almost at the end, when he opened his eyes to look directly into the camera, an audible sigh was heard in our living room. He was absolutely dreamy last night!!
My choice for Bottom 2: Brooke and Jason. I’ll be shocked if I’m wrong. And Brooke should be sent home. She just doesn’t have what it takes. She could be a coffeehouse singer, in front of small groups, with lots of family and friends telling her how great she sounds. She’s not capable of taking the reality of having a music career.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Basking in the Glory. . .
My apologies for not getting this up sooner --- I was basking in the glory of Kristy Lee being sent home!!!
Actually, to be honest, even though I’ve been begging for weeks for her to be sent home, at the last moments before Ryan announced who would be leaving I actually wanted Brooke to go more than I did Kristy Lee. Did Brooke really think that by shouting “no” she would be able to protect anyone?? When, oh when, are they going to understand that SOMEONE GOES HOME EACH WEEK??? That’s how we end up with a winner, folks!!
Ryan opened the show by announcing that they had received 36 million votes the night before and that Mariah Carey and Elliott Yamin would be performing. Okay, so even if 90% of those votes were the same people voting repeatedly, that would mean that means that 3.6 million people picked up their phones and cast a vote. That’s just plain crazy!!
As he does each week, Ryan introduced the judges and GOOD GOD!! What was that around Paula’s neck??? My daughter said it was the sash that comes with prom dresses (the item that no one actually ever uses/wears) but she also had a gigantic blossom of some kind attached to it --- the flower was almost as big as her head (and Paula has a bigger than average noggin)!!
The group sang “One Sweet Day” --- another week of painful group singing.
Then they dove right in to making the announcements.
Jason was invited onstage and directed to form a group to Ryan’s left. David was next, and was asked to form a group to Ryan’s right. At this point, I’m thinking that MAYBE Jason ended up in the Bottom 3. . .
Carly came out and is sent to Jason’s group --- still not nervous, because Carly’s been in the Bottom 3 a couple of times already.
Then, Kristy Lee came out and was sent to David’s group. I started to sweat at that point, because we all knew that whoever was put in David’s group was NOT going to go home UNLESS David somehow ended up in the Bottom 3 (and, at that point, the planet would implode).
Cut to the Ford commercial (I Want to Break Free), which, again surprisingly, was really cute!!
Elliott came out, with his new grill, to sing “Free”. He is still SO adorable and I’m very happy that he got a chance to get his teeth fixed AND happy that it didn’t mess with his singing ability. Sad news at the end that his adorable mom had passed away, but I felt good knowing that she had a chance to share in his success and see him make his dream come true. It said a lot for Elliott that he could come onstage just a few short days later and share his talent with us.
Syesha was called onstage next and sent to Jason’s group.
Brooke came out next and was sent to David’s group. Now I really started to sweat --- David Cook was standing in a group with two people who had been in the Bottom 3, one of them SEVERAL times!!!
That’s when it hit me!! The groups had NOTHING to do with who was going home. Either Ryan was going to call someone out of a random group and tell them “goodbye” or something else was going to happen!
Questions from the fan came next. Some things we learned (but could have gone without knowing):
- the guy who bought Kristy Lee’s horse won’t sell him back to her
- Randy’s first record purchase was Led Zeppelin, Beatles, and James Brown
- Paula’s was Jackson 5, Earth Wind and Fire, and Carole King
- Simon’s was Paula Abdul (yuck, yuck)
- Paula was unable to come up with an answer about which one of her songs describes her relationship with Simon
- Simon actually had to explain to someone that “theme park”, “karaoke” and “beefless burger” used to describe performances were all terms that mean horrible
- David is single
Mariah came out next to lip sync and incredibly long song, dressed in a Lycra dress. Who wears Lycra anymore except figure skaters and strippers???
RECAP: One group was comprised of Syesha, Carly, and Jason. The other group was David, Kristy Lee, and Brooke. Ryan invited Lil’ David out and told him he’s safe, then asked David to swap places with Syesha. Then he asked Lil’ David to join the group HE felt would be safe, which of course, he refused to do by sitting down on the stage ½ way between each group.
Lil’ David missed Ryan’s lame hints at trying to get him to move to the “safe” group, so Ryan ended up leading the group TO Lil’ David. We learned then that David, Carly, Jason, and Lil’ David were all safe and the Bottom 3 were Kristy Lee, Syesha, and Brooke.
Syesha was quickly declared safe. The judges were asked to make their obligatory unfavorable comments, much like pouring salt on a wound. I couldn’t wait for Ryan to say that Kristy Lee would be leaving. . . and then Brooke threw her arms around Kristy Lee, and called out “no, no” as if that would stop anyone from leaving. It was at that point that I decided I could stand Kristy Lee another week if they sent Brooke home.
However, Ryan announced that Kristy Lee would be leaving, Kristy Lee broke down in tears (I think it was because she was so happy she wouldn’t be humiliated anymore by being in the Bottom 3), and she (thank God) sang for the last time on the show.
It was a long time coming! Now, if Brooke goes home, the world will be a better place for me!! AND if I can figure out how David Hernandez, Amanda, Chikizie, Ramiele, and Michael got sent home the FIRST TIME they were in the Bottom 3 and it took Kristy Lee four times in the Bottom 3 to be sent home. . . oh wait, I think I got it!!
Actually, to be honest, even though I’ve been begging for weeks for her to be sent home, at the last moments before Ryan announced who would be leaving I actually wanted Brooke to go more than I did Kristy Lee. Did Brooke really think that by shouting “no” she would be able to protect anyone?? When, oh when, are they going to understand that SOMEONE GOES HOME EACH WEEK??? That’s how we end up with a winner, folks!!
Ryan opened the show by announcing that they had received 36 million votes the night before and that Mariah Carey and Elliott Yamin would be performing. Okay, so even if 90% of those votes were the same people voting repeatedly, that would mean that means that 3.6 million people picked up their phones and cast a vote. That’s just plain crazy!!
As he does each week, Ryan introduced the judges and GOOD GOD!! What was that around Paula’s neck??? My daughter said it was the sash that comes with prom dresses (the item that no one actually ever uses/wears) but she also had a gigantic blossom of some kind attached to it --- the flower was almost as big as her head (and Paula has a bigger than average noggin)!!
The group sang “One Sweet Day” --- another week of painful group singing.
Then they dove right in to making the announcements.
Jason was invited onstage and directed to form a group to Ryan’s left. David was next, and was asked to form a group to Ryan’s right. At this point, I’m thinking that MAYBE Jason ended up in the Bottom 3. . .
Carly came out and is sent to Jason’s group --- still not nervous, because Carly’s been in the Bottom 3 a couple of times already.
Then, Kristy Lee came out and was sent to David’s group. I started to sweat at that point, because we all knew that whoever was put in David’s group was NOT going to go home UNLESS David somehow ended up in the Bottom 3 (and, at that point, the planet would implode).
Cut to the Ford commercial (I Want to Break Free), which, again surprisingly, was really cute!!
Elliott came out, with his new grill, to sing “Free”. He is still SO adorable and I’m very happy that he got a chance to get his teeth fixed AND happy that it didn’t mess with his singing ability. Sad news at the end that his adorable mom had passed away, but I felt good knowing that she had a chance to share in his success and see him make his dream come true. It said a lot for Elliott that he could come onstage just a few short days later and share his talent with us.
Syesha was called onstage next and sent to Jason’s group.
Brooke came out next and was sent to David’s group. Now I really started to sweat --- David Cook was standing in a group with two people who had been in the Bottom 3, one of them SEVERAL times!!!
That’s when it hit me!! The groups had NOTHING to do with who was going home. Either Ryan was going to call someone out of a random group and tell them “goodbye” or something else was going to happen!
Questions from the fan came next. Some things we learned (but could have gone without knowing):
- the guy who bought Kristy Lee’s horse won’t sell him back to her
- Randy’s first record purchase was Led Zeppelin, Beatles, and James Brown
- Paula’s was Jackson 5, Earth Wind and Fire, and Carole King
- Simon’s was Paula Abdul (yuck, yuck)
- Paula was unable to come up with an answer about which one of her songs describes her relationship with Simon
- Simon actually had to explain to someone that “theme park”, “karaoke” and “beefless burger” used to describe performances were all terms that mean horrible
- David is single
Mariah came out next to lip sync and incredibly long song, dressed in a Lycra dress. Who wears Lycra anymore except figure skaters and strippers???
RECAP: One group was comprised of Syesha, Carly, and Jason. The other group was David, Kristy Lee, and Brooke. Ryan invited Lil’ David out and told him he’s safe, then asked David to swap places with Syesha. Then he asked Lil’ David to join the group HE felt would be safe, which of course, he refused to do by sitting down on the stage ½ way between each group.
Lil’ David missed Ryan’s lame hints at trying to get him to move to the “safe” group, so Ryan ended up leading the group TO Lil’ David. We learned then that David, Carly, Jason, and Lil’ David were all safe and the Bottom 3 were Kristy Lee, Syesha, and Brooke.
Syesha was quickly declared safe. The judges were asked to make their obligatory unfavorable comments, much like pouring salt on a wound. I couldn’t wait for Ryan to say that Kristy Lee would be leaving. . . and then Brooke threw her arms around Kristy Lee, and called out “no, no” as if that would stop anyone from leaving. It was at that point that I decided I could stand Kristy Lee another week if they sent Brooke home.
However, Ryan announced that Kristy Lee would be leaving, Kristy Lee broke down in tears (I think it was because she was so happy she wouldn’t be humiliated anymore by being in the Bottom 3), and she (thank God) sang for the last time on the show.
It was a long time coming! Now, if Brooke goes home, the world will be a better place for me!! AND if I can figure out how David Hernandez, Amanda, Chikizie, Ramiele, and Michael got sent home the FIRST TIME they were in the Bottom 3 and it took Kristy Lee four times in the Bottom 3 to be sent home. . . oh wait, I think I got it!!
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
What the Heck's a "Mimi"??
Mariah Carey night. . . it puzzles me why they constantly chide contestants about singing songs that are “too big” or getting them compared to the original artist. The message these kids get is: pick songs that were not done well by the original artists, pick obscure music that no one knows (so you can’t be compared with anyone), pick songs by crappy artists??? And then they have them start out the season singing BEATLES and move on to Mariah Carey (okay, Dolly was somewhere in there, too, but not everyone likes Dolly’s music, so they were pretty safe). And, it was okay for me to have Mariah mentor this week, because I’m not her biggest fan. But apparently, she’s an icon in the eyes of the judges, so I’m not quite getting why she was chosen --- it’s almost as if the contestants were being set up.
Lil’ David started off the show by singing “When You Believe”. It was a predictable but excellent choice for him --- he was able to put his whole heart into lyrics that he really felt. I just wish he didn’t look so scared every time he finishes. I’m hoping it’s more about the size of the audience and less about how is father will react.
Carly was next, dressed like a star (except for the heavy black tights) --- she looked fab! Her choice was “Without You”. I thought it was a great song for her, she sang it well. The judges reactions were lukewarm --- I’m getting that feeling I get every season that the voting is being “driven” by the judges, that they’re trying to steer the voters in a certain direction. Several weeks ago, Carly could do no wrong. I don’t see her performances getting any weaker, yet she’s fallen out of favor for some reason. Hubbie’s facial tattoos?? Fallout over early season accusations of setting up the contest?? It’s a mystery to me, but it will be a shame if this girl goes home at this point in the contest.
Syesha was next, in a horrible gold lame dress (too long, too old for her) singing “Vanishing”. Not being a big Mariah fan, it probably didn’t help that I had never heard this song. Either it’s an awkwardly written song or Syesha was off because it sounded VERY off-key to me for measures at a time. However, the judges seemed to like this performance --- maybe they’re more familiar with her choice than I was??
Brooke just can’t seem to let go of the one successful night she had singing “Let it Be” at the piano ---- it just seems like she’s trying to recapture that moment week after week. She chose “Hero” and tried to create an “unplugged” at the piano. . . didn’t work for me AT ALL. She was pitchy throughout, then starting increasing the tempo and shaking like a leaf --- seemed like the faster she went the more nervous she got and the more nervous she got the faster she went. She completely fell apart. Again, faced off the judges close to tears the whole time.
Kristy Lee came out and sang “Forever” --- she looked fabulous, glittery eyeliner aside (I’m beginning to think it’s tattooed on), but sounded especially nasally doing her countrified version.
Technology screwed me over AGAIN last night --- I was recording the show, as usual, on our Comcast DVR in high-def, and was watching something else in the “Tivo” room. I found myself strangely drawn to watch the show live, WHICH I SHOULD HAVE DONE, because Comcast suddenly “switched off”, then came back on. My husband, who was watching the Shark’s playoff game, estimated it was around 9:00p.m. Turns out it was BEFORE then, just before the last two performances of the night. So, the cable turned off, then turned back on, but the recording turned off. . . and stayed off, totaling cutting off the show just as Ryan was getting ready to introduce David’s performance.
By the time I found this out, hubby was already in bed, so I couldn’t even fire up the computer and watch the video clips of David and Jason until this morning.
HOWEVER, it was worth the wait in both cases: David’s rendition of “Always Be My Baby” was outrageously good! He makes Mariah songs palatable for me! This kid can do no wrong in my eyes!!
And, although I was initially a little nervous about Jason singing Mariah, I thought his take on “I Don’t Wanna Cry” was also very, very good. He reached a little further this week and put more of his own stamp on the song.
I think this is the last week of Bottom 3, and my choices for these slots are: Kristy Lee, Brooke, and Syesha.
However, I think the American public will throw Carly in there with Brooke and Syesha --- there’s a big group of Kristy Lee supporters out there.
Kristy Lee. . . this year’s Sanjaya. . .
Lil’ David started off the show by singing “When You Believe”. It was a predictable but excellent choice for him --- he was able to put his whole heart into lyrics that he really felt. I just wish he didn’t look so scared every time he finishes. I’m hoping it’s more about the size of the audience and less about how is father will react.
Carly was next, dressed like a star (except for the heavy black tights) --- she looked fab! Her choice was “Without You”. I thought it was a great song for her, she sang it well. The judges reactions were lukewarm --- I’m getting that feeling I get every season that the voting is being “driven” by the judges, that they’re trying to steer the voters in a certain direction. Several weeks ago, Carly could do no wrong. I don’t see her performances getting any weaker, yet she’s fallen out of favor for some reason. Hubbie’s facial tattoos?? Fallout over early season accusations of setting up the contest?? It’s a mystery to me, but it will be a shame if this girl goes home at this point in the contest.
Syesha was next, in a horrible gold lame dress (too long, too old for her) singing “Vanishing”. Not being a big Mariah fan, it probably didn’t help that I had never heard this song. Either it’s an awkwardly written song or Syesha was off because it sounded VERY off-key to me for measures at a time. However, the judges seemed to like this performance --- maybe they’re more familiar with her choice than I was??
Brooke just can’t seem to let go of the one successful night she had singing “Let it Be” at the piano ---- it just seems like she’s trying to recapture that moment week after week. She chose “Hero” and tried to create an “unplugged” at the piano. . . didn’t work for me AT ALL. She was pitchy throughout, then starting increasing the tempo and shaking like a leaf --- seemed like the faster she went the more nervous she got and the more nervous she got the faster she went. She completely fell apart. Again, faced off the judges close to tears the whole time.
Kristy Lee came out and sang “Forever” --- she looked fabulous, glittery eyeliner aside (I’m beginning to think it’s tattooed on), but sounded especially nasally doing her countrified version.
Technology screwed me over AGAIN last night --- I was recording the show, as usual, on our Comcast DVR in high-def, and was watching something else in the “Tivo” room. I found myself strangely drawn to watch the show live, WHICH I SHOULD HAVE DONE, because Comcast suddenly “switched off”, then came back on. My husband, who was watching the Shark’s playoff game, estimated it was around 9:00p.m. Turns out it was BEFORE then, just before the last two performances of the night. So, the cable turned off, then turned back on, but the recording turned off. . . and stayed off, totaling cutting off the show just as Ryan was getting ready to introduce David’s performance.
By the time I found this out, hubby was already in bed, so I couldn’t even fire up the computer and watch the video clips of David and Jason until this morning.
HOWEVER, it was worth the wait in both cases: David’s rendition of “Always Be My Baby” was outrageously good! He makes Mariah songs palatable for me! This kid can do no wrong in my eyes!!
And, although I was initially a little nervous about Jason singing Mariah, I thought his take on “I Don’t Wanna Cry” was also very, very good. He reached a little further this week and put more of his own stamp on the song.
I think this is the last week of Bottom 3, and my choices for these slots are: Kristy Lee, Brooke, and Syesha.
However, I think the American public will throw Carly in there with Brooke and Syesha --- there’s a big group of Kristy Lee supporters out there.
Kristy Lee. . . this year’s Sanjaya. . .
Friday, April 11, 2008
Lucky 7
My apologies to Mariah Carey --- apparently I totally missed her performance on this year’s Idol Gives Back show. . . not my favorite performer, but I didn't leave her out of the last blog just because I can't stand her!!
Idol Gives Back donations were totalling $60million last night --- phone lines and web site is still open for further donations.
The show opened with what I thought was an odd choice of songs: “Shout to the Lord”. I guess if this was an individual song choice from a contestant it wouldn’t have seem strange to me, but it seemed a little peculiar to pretty much require the contestants to sing it. For me, it brought a religious aspect to the show that I thought might be off-putting to some of the American public. Just my opinion!
Pleas for further donations continued through last night’s show with appearances by: Zack & Cody, Dr. Phil, Ricki Lake and Jim Carrey.
Their was a repeat of last year’s musical montage; this year’s song was “I’m a Believer” and included these celebrities as well as others I didn’t recognize: Rob Schneider, George Lopez, Michael Chiklis, Kobe Bryant, Dr. Phil, Kyra Sedgwick, Mary Murphy, Camryn Manheim, Ricki Lake, Selma Blair. I always like this segment, as the people who appear seem to be letting their guard down a little and just having a lot of fun. Sort of like the photos from Sundance!
No time was wasted in bringing out the first of the contestants and giving results:
Brooke - safe (really??)
David - safe (even though he thought he might be in the bottom 3)
Lil’ David - safe (quaking in his shoes waiting for his dad’s reaction)
More film footage of Forest Whitaker and his wife Keisha in Angola visiting children who struggle every day to survive --- both orphaned and not. I’m not sure how they managed to come home without 20-30 Angolan orphans. These segments have been particularly heart wrenching for me to watch.
Jordin Sparks and Cris Brown sang “No Air” --- great song, but Jordin is either a better actor or she was just way more into it that Cris. He eventually just looked a little uncomfortable, but sang great!! Jordin seemed a little awkward with all the “ain’ts” in the song, but she managed to pull it off.
More contestants:
Jason - safe
Kristy Lee - safe (now I’m starting to get worried)
This leaves Syesha, Carly and Michael backstage, knowing that they are the Bottom 3. Although the stools are set up onstage, they are spared with having to sit in them.
Bono stumps for One.org, then equal airtime is given to: Hillary Clinton, John McCain, and Barack Obama. John McCain’s attempt at humor was just painful!!
Then came the “Daughtry” moment --- Syesha and Carly were declared safe and, with all three of them in shock, Michael was told his journey was done.
With Michael’s face showing obvious shock and Carly’s “no, no, no” in the background, Ryan starts talking as if MAYBE they’re going to ignore the voting and not send anyone home, then quickly tells Michael he is, indeed, going home.
In my shock, I had to force myself to remember last year and that moment when Daughtry was told he was leaving and think about how much airplay his music has gotten since then, how he not only appeared on Idol Gives Back the night before, but they sent him and his band to Africa. Where was Taylor Hicks?
So, now that the shock has worn off, I’m assured that Michael Johns WILL get a contract; we’ll be hearing his songs on the radio this time next year. . . maybe even more than the person who walks away with the title.
I had to wonder, though, what it might have been like when the contestants arrived at their home away from home. Did they commiserate about how much they would miss Michael? Or did the accusations start to flow (“It should have been you!”, “You suck, you should have been gone 3 weeks ago?” “I can’t believe you’re still here and Michael’s gone?”).
You have to wonder. . .
Idol Gives Back donations were totalling $60million last night --- phone lines and web site is still open for further donations.
The show opened with what I thought was an odd choice of songs: “Shout to the Lord”. I guess if this was an individual song choice from a contestant it wouldn’t have seem strange to me, but it seemed a little peculiar to pretty much require the contestants to sing it. For me, it brought a religious aspect to the show that I thought might be off-putting to some of the American public. Just my opinion!
Pleas for further donations continued through last night’s show with appearances by: Zack & Cody, Dr. Phil, Ricki Lake and Jim Carrey.
Their was a repeat of last year’s musical montage; this year’s song was “I’m a Believer” and included these celebrities as well as others I didn’t recognize: Rob Schneider, George Lopez, Michael Chiklis, Kobe Bryant, Dr. Phil, Kyra Sedgwick, Mary Murphy, Camryn Manheim, Ricki Lake, Selma Blair. I always like this segment, as the people who appear seem to be letting their guard down a little and just having a lot of fun. Sort of like the photos from Sundance!
No time was wasted in bringing out the first of the contestants and giving results:
Brooke - safe (really??)
David - safe (even though he thought he might be in the bottom 3)
Lil’ David - safe (quaking in his shoes waiting for his dad’s reaction)
More film footage of Forest Whitaker and his wife Keisha in Angola visiting children who struggle every day to survive --- both orphaned and not. I’m not sure how they managed to come home without 20-30 Angolan orphans. These segments have been particularly heart wrenching for me to watch.
Jordin Sparks and Cris Brown sang “No Air” --- great song, but Jordin is either a better actor or she was just way more into it that Cris. He eventually just looked a little uncomfortable, but sang great!! Jordin seemed a little awkward with all the “ain’ts” in the song, but she managed to pull it off.
More contestants:
Jason - safe
Kristy Lee - safe (now I’m starting to get worried)
This leaves Syesha, Carly and Michael backstage, knowing that they are the Bottom 3. Although the stools are set up onstage, they are spared with having to sit in them.
Bono stumps for One.org, then equal airtime is given to: Hillary Clinton, John McCain, and Barack Obama. John McCain’s attempt at humor was just painful!!
Then came the “Daughtry” moment --- Syesha and Carly were declared safe and, with all three of them in shock, Michael was told his journey was done.
With Michael’s face showing obvious shock and Carly’s “no, no, no” in the background, Ryan starts talking as if MAYBE they’re going to ignore the voting and not send anyone home, then quickly tells Michael he is, indeed, going home.
In my shock, I had to force myself to remember last year and that moment when Daughtry was told he was leaving and think about how much airplay his music has gotten since then, how he not only appeared on Idol Gives Back the night before, but they sent him and his band to Africa. Where was Taylor Hicks?
So, now that the shock has worn off, I’m assured that Michael Johns WILL get a contract; we’ll be hearing his songs on the radio this time next year. . . maybe even more than the person who walks away with the title.
I had to wonder, though, what it might have been like when the contestants arrived at their home away from home. Did they commiserate about how much they would miss Michael? Or did the accusations start to flow (“It should have been you!”, “You suck, you should have been gone 3 weeks ago?” “I can’t believe you’re still here and Michael’s gone?”).
You have to wonder. . .
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Idol Gives Back. . .
Tonight's show opened with the current Idol contestants singing "Please Don't Stop the Music". Then the onslaught of celebrities began only to be interrupted by commercials and the contestants singing "Seasons of Love": Nascar's Jimmy Johnson, George Lopez, Kylie Minogue, Maria Shriver, Ben Stiller, Jennifer Connelly, Snoop Dogg (and a friend, I know not whom), Kobe Bryant, Triple H, Paula, Randy, Carrie Underwood, Teri Hatcher, the Man from TV Band, crazy Mary Murphy and her British co-host, Jonas Brothers, Billy Crystal, Miley Cyrus, Bono, Julianne Moore, Fergie, John Legend, Hart, John Cena, Adam Sandler, Eli and Peyton Manning, David and Victoria Beckham, Annie Lennox, Kiefer Sutherland, Celine Dion, Jimmy Kimmel, Simon, Whoopi Goldberg, Ellen DeGeneres, Gloria Estefan, Sheila E., Sarah Silverman, Forest Whitaker (and his wife), Gordon Brown, Keith Urban, Reese Witherspoon, Dane Cook, Alicia Keyes, Vanessa Hudgens, Ashley Tisdale, Billy Ray Cyrus, Robin Williams, Rob Schneider, Tyra Banks, David Spade, Brad Pitt, Daughtry. . . then my DVR stopped at the "delete/don't delete" cue, telling me that the show had gone over. Why don't I ever remember to set it to record over???
Anyway, the point of tonight's blog is: all these people made time in their very busy lives to appear on this show to plead with the American public to give to some very, very worthy causes. If you watched the show and weren't moved to tears by the injustice: of children in New Orleans who still aren't back in their homes, of children in Africa who have been orphaned -- some of whom have no one to take care of them, of children who are dying of malaria because they lack the resources to buy a $10 mosquito net, of children in Kentucky who are living WAY below the poverty level for whom a child's book is a luxury, then you're a robot.
Please give. If each American gave $1 it would be over $300 million to help. Give up that latte tomorrow morning and send the $4 to Idol Gives Back. Quit talking about how the world needs to change and send some money; every little bit helps.
Imagine what we could do. Your money will go to one of these charities: the Children's Defense Fund; the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria; Make It Right (a campaign launched by Pitt to help New Orleans rebound from Hurricane Katrina); Malaria No More; Save the Children, and the Children's Health Fund. Please know that these charities benefit CHILDREN most of all.
Thank you Coca Cola, Freemantle Media, Ford, Allstate Insurance, Mac Aids Fund, 19, iTunes, AT&T and New Corporation.
Anyway, the point of tonight's blog is: all these people made time in their very busy lives to appear on this show to plead with the American public to give to some very, very worthy causes. If you watched the show and weren't moved to tears by the injustice: of children in New Orleans who still aren't back in their homes, of children in Africa who have been orphaned -- some of whom have no one to take care of them, of children who are dying of malaria because they lack the resources to buy a $10 mosquito net, of children in Kentucky who are living WAY below the poverty level for whom a child's book is a luxury, then you're a robot.
Please give. If each American gave $1 it would be over $300 million to help. Give up that latte tomorrow morning and send the $4 to Idol Gives Back. Quit talking about how the world needs to change and send some money; every little bit helps.
Imagine what we could do. Your money will go to one of these charities: the Children's Defense Fund; the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria; Make It Right (a campaign launched by Pitt to help New Orleans rebound from Hurricane Katrina); Malaria No More; Save the Children, and the Children's Health Fund. Please know that these charities benefit CHILDREN most of all.
Thank you Coca Cola, Freemantle Media, Ford, Allstate Insurance, Mac Aids Fund, 19, iTunes, AT&T and New Corporation.
Eight isn't enough. . .
Okay, first off I'm going to apologize for the lateness of this post. . . I know your Wednesday morning isn't the same without being able to read my comments first thing (ha, ha). Thanks to a couple of co-workers (y'all know who you are) I was at home today with a sore throat. I used to use my sick days to stay home so as NOT to infect my co-workers, but all bets are off now.
I was mostly underwhelmed by Tuesday's show --- or it was the sore throat coming on, one of the two.
Ryan introduced the judges, as always. Randy was his usual jovial self, Paula had some god-awful bustier on with no shaping --- actually made it look like she had it on backwards, and Simon, owing to Paula's bust spilling out the top of her outfit, simply looked twitterpated. Paula's outfit has now been named "Boobs in Toyland".
This was "Inspiration Song" week --- each contestant got to choose a song that inspired them, except David Archuleta who's obviously not allowed to make any of his own decisions to due his unbearable intolerable stage father. . . my household is hoping that he gets emancipated from the tyrant as soon as the show is over.
Michael chose "Dream On" by Aerosmith -- I really liked it until he went into the falsetto. It was totally unnecessary and ended up marring his performance for me.
I absolutely didn't agree with the judges view on the songs the contestants chose. I think, for the most part, they suited each one of them.
Syesha sang "I Believe" by Fantasia --- she made it her own and didn't even try to mimic Fantasia but was still "dinged" by the judges for attempting such a "big" song. And if they don't choose a "big" song they're accused of choosing some obscure piece of music. Give 'em a break. She did a good job --- still hasn't matched her Hollywood week performance as far as I'm concerned but it was better than some of her recent performances.
Jason came out and sang "Somewhere Over the Rainbow", the updated version that was done by Israel Kamakawiwo Ole. Although it was kinda cool that he showed everyone he COULD play the ukelele, I think it would have sounded a bit more original had he sung the updated version but accompanied himself on guitar. Just a thought. . .
Kristy Lee san "Anyway" by Martina McBride and was NOT told she attempted a "big" song (which it was and which she did not equal). She has developed a permanent whiny tone to her voice and looked like she had dabbled in a Hello Kitty makeup box --- glitter eyeliner (which she wears EVERY week), glitter nail polish (do they sell that anywhere else but the kiddie section) and that horrific glitter tank. However, it WAS skin-tight, which will be what carries her through another week.
David Cook chose "Innocent" by Our Lady Peace --- I love him but it wasn't my favorite performance from him. I think he knew it wasn't his best, too, by his reactions to the judges comments. However, this kid is WAY too talented to have one mediocre performance knock him off the show.
Carly sang "The Show Must Go On" by Queen --- talk about "big" songs, taking on Freddy Mercury!! I never loved the song, but she did a great job with it.
Lil' David sang "Angels" by Robbie Williams. As usual, he sang straight from the heart and every note was "spot on" to borrow a phrase from Simon.
Brooke ended the show with "You've Got A Friend", which, yes, was sung by James Taylor, but it was written and performed recorded first by Carole King. Wish the show had ended with David's performance because watching Brooke was painful. She is WAY too earnest and somehow has this idea that, if she cries she won't get voted off. Please prove her wrong.
For me, either Kristy Lee or Brooke can go home this week --- I think they're equal in lack of talent.
I think it might end up being Kristy Lee, Brooke and Syesha in the bottom three. America may send Syesha home, and I only say that because they usually don't get sent home in order of lack of talent --- there's always at least one contestant who stays around WELL past the point of being on equal footing with the others.
I was mostly underwhelmed by Tuesday's show --- or it was the sore throat coming on, one of the two.
Ryan introduced the judges, as always. Randy was his usual jovial self, Paula had some god-awful bustier on with no shaping --- actually made it look like she had it on backwards, and Simon, owing to Paula's bust spilling out the top of her outfit, simply looked twitterpated. Paula's outfit has now been named "Boobs in Toyland".
This was "Inspiration Song" week --- each contestant got to choose a song that inspired them, except David Archuleta who's obviously not allowed to make any of his own decisions to due his unbearable intolerable stage father. . . my household is hoping that he gets emancipated from the tyrant as soon as the show is over.
Michael chose "Dream On" by Aerosmith -- I really liked it until he went into the falsetto. It was totally unnecessary and ended up marring his performance for me.
I absolutely didn't agree with the judges view on the songs the contestants chose. I think, for the most part, they suited each one of them.
Syesha sang "I Believe" by Fantasia --- she made it her own and didn't even try to mimic Fantasia but was still "dinged" by the judges for attempting such a "big" song. And if they don't choose a "big" song they're accused of choosing some obscure piece of music. Give 'em a break. She did a good job --- still hasn't matched her Hollywood week performance as far as I'm concerned but it was better than some of her recent performances.
Jason came out and sang "Somewhere Over the Rainbow", the updated version that was done by Israel Kamakawiwo Ole. Although it was kinda cool that he showed everyone he COULD play the ukelele, I think it would have sounded a bit more original had he sung the updated version but accompanied himself on guitar. Just a thought. . .
Kristy Lee san "Anyway" by Martina McBride and was NOT told she attempted a "big" song (which it was and which she did not equal). She has developed a permanent whiny tone to her voice and looked like she had dabbled in a Hello Kitty makeup box --- glitter eyeliner (which she wears EVERY week), glitter nail polish (do they sell that anywhere else but the kiddie section) and that horrific glitter tank. However, it WAS skin-tight, which will be what carries her through another week.
David Cook chose "Innocent" by Our Lady Peace --- I love him but it wasn't my favorite performance from him. I think he knew it wasn't his best, too, by his reactions to the judges comments. However, this kid is WAY too talented to have one mediocre performance knock him off the show.
Carly sang "The Show Must Go On" by Queen --- talk about "big" songs, taking on Freddy Mercury!! I never loved the song, but she did a great job with it.
Lil' David sang "Angels" by Robbie Williams. As usual, he sang straight from the heart and every note was "spot on" to borrow a phrase from Simon.
Brooke ended the show with "You've Got A Friend", which, yes, was sung by James Taylor, but it was written and performed recorded first by Carole King. Wish the show had ended with David's performance because watching Brooke was painful. She is WAY too earnest and somehow has this idea that, if she cries she won't get voted off. Please prove her wrong.
For me, either Kristy Lee or Brooke can go home this week --- I think they're equal in lack of talent.
I think it might end up being Kristy Lee, Brooke and Syesha in the bottom three. America may send Syesha home, and I only say that because they usually don't get sent home in order of lack of talent --- there's always at least one contestant who stays around WELL past the point of being on equal footing with the others.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
(Workin') 9 to 8. . .
Last night’s show opened, as always, with a group song. Haven’t heard one yet that sounds good --- these kids were never meant to be in a group --- I wonder if they’ll ever stop forcing them to sing together??
Judges were introduced (as if we don’t already know who they are) and, after Simon’s comments on Carly’s stylist from the night before, I’m shocked he didn’t comment on Paula’s hooker-ish outfit. Forget about who’s dressing Carly!! Who’s dressing Paula??? It was horrendous!
The show thankfully moved quickly into announcements about who was safe and who would be in the bottom three.
Michael - safe
Little David - safe
Carly - safe (America came to its senses)
Questions from the viewers --- tonight Ryan selected a wrong question to put up on the screen, but he DID choose one viewer out of the 12-25 age range. However, when he gave the age of the viewer (52) he made it sound like it was:
- shocking that the woman could use a computer at her age
- amazing that she was up that late
- astounding that she was still able to speak clearly
I mean, he said “52” like it was 102!!! C’mon Ryan, not all your viewers are 12.
More announcements. . .
David C. - safe
Ramiele - Bottom Three
Kristy Lee - Bottom Three
Syesha - safe
Brooke and Jason were brought out together and quickly dispatched; Jason to the “safe sofa” and Brooke pronounced as in the Bottom Three.
The only surprise here was that the rest of the country agreed with me about who should be in the Bottom Three!!!
At this point, Ryan could have told Brooke SHE was going home and I wouldn't have been sad. . . she brought herself up to a whole new annoyance level with me with her weeping. Hell, she KNEW she wasn't going home yet --- Ramiele was a shoe-in at that point. Then Ryan asked her why she was crying and she said it was the emotion of the moment and seeing the last clip (Ethiopian street children). Okay, okay, the clip brought tears to MY eyes, but Brooke was crying because her feelings were hurt that she had been put in the Bottom Three!! After all her soothing the audience when they "boo" Simon when he's bashing Brooke. . . she's been so kind/condescending to everyone she couldn't understand how they could NOT have voted for her!!
As Ryan announced that Ramiele was going home, I should have been disappointed that it wasn’t Kristy Lee, but honestly. . . either one would have made me happy.
Nevertheless, Kristy Lee is becoming the Sanjaya for me this year --- and she doesn’t have as much personality as he did.
Judges were introduced (as if we don’t already know who they are) and, after Simon’s comments on Carly’s stylist from the night before, I’m shocked he didn’t comment on Paula’s hooker-ish outfit. Forget about who’s dressing Carly!! Who’s dressing Paula??? It was horrendous!
The show thankfully moved quickly into announcements about who was safe and who would be in the bottom three.
Michael - safe
Little David - safe
Carly - safe (America came to its senses)
Questions from the viewers --- tonight Ryan selected a wrong question to put up on the screen, but he DID choose one viewer out of the 12-25 age range. However, when he gave the age of the viewer (52) he made it sound like it was:
- shocking that the woman could use a computer at her age
- amazing that she was up that late
- astounding that she was still able to speak clearly
I mean, he said “52” like it was 102!!! C’mon Ryan, not all your viewers are 12.
More announcements. . .
David C. - safe
Ramiele - Bottom Three
Kristy Lee - Bottom Three
Syesha - safe
Brooke and Jason were brought out together and quickly dispatched; Jason to the “safe sofa” and Brooke pronounced as in the Bottom Three.
The only surprise here was that the rest of the country agreed with me about who should be in the Bottom Three!!!
At this point, Ryan could have told Brooke SHE was going home and I wouldn't have been sad. . . she brought herself up to a whole new annoyance level with me with her weeping. Hell, she KNEW she wasn't going home yet --- Ramiele was a shoe-in at that point. Then Ryan asked her why she was crying and she said it was the emotion of the moment and seeing the last clip (Ethiopian street children). Okay, okay, the clip brought tears to MY eyes, but Brooke was crying because her feelings were hurt that she had been put in the Bottom Three!! After all her soothing the audience when they "boo" Simon when he's bashing Brooke. . . she's been so kind/condescending to everyone she couldn't understand how they could NOT have voted for her!!
As Ryan announced that Ramiele was going home, I should have been disappointed that it wasn’t Kristy Lee, but honestly. . . either one would have made me happy.
Nevertheless, Kristy Lee is becoming the Sanjaya for me this year --- and she doesn’t have as much personality as he did.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Music by Dolly
Tonight's show opened with an April Fool's Day joke by Ryan. . . almost as funny as when a couple of my co-workers walked in this morning, convinced that the news on the radio was true. They heard that Syesha had been removed from the competition and replaced by Sanjaya!! It took them a while to believe that it was just a cruel joke. . .
Dolly Parton was this week's mentor --- I'm not the biggest country music fan, but I do love Dolly. She's sweet, she's real and I just like her voice! She's also an incredibly talented songwriter, as we saw in tonight's show.
Brooke opened the show by singing "Jolene". She was a little shaky at the start, a little unsure, but she ended a little stronger. It wasn't a horrible performance, but I wish she'd stop trying to play to the camera --- it always comes off making her look really awkward. And, please Brooke, stop telling the audience "it's all right".
David C. was next, singing his own arrangement of "Little Sparrow". I was a little nervous when I heard him say it was his arrangement (flashbacks of Josiah dismissing the band) but I had no reason to be worried. David gave an outstanding performance, and showed everyone that he has everything it takes to be an American Idol. It was an awesome performance!! Each week I think he can't get any better. . . and then he does.
Tiny, star-struck Ramiele was next singing "Do I Ever Cross Your Mind". For me her performance was just "a-ight". Even on the "post-David" high it was indeed "cruise ship" caliber and a little karaoke.
Jason sang "Travelin' Through" --- I thought it was a very strong showing, second only to his "Hallelujah" night. He's been coasting through on his stage presence and the "cute" factor, but tonight showed that he is also a talented singer.
"Here You Come Again" was Carly's choice tonight. I loved the way she sang this song and thought it was better than Dolly's own version. Great choice, excellent performance! I even thought her wardrobe was much better!
Every time David Cook delivers a stellar performance, I begin thinking that Little David will fall to second place in my heart. . . and then Little David comes out and delivers a performance like tonight's "Smoky Mountain Memories". Somehow he manages to look like he's ALMOST ready to burst into tears without having his voice crack. He pours his whole heart into every song he sings. Love him!! Great choice, excellent delivery!!
Kristly Lee chose "Coat of Many Colors" and also chose to go shoeless to play the "aw shucks" card. All I can say is yuck. Please, please send this girl home.
Syesha (and not Sanjaya) was next with "I Will Always Love You" --- written by Dolly and made famous by Whitney. It was a brave choice (as the judges hardly ever like the Idol's versions better), but I think she did a commendable job. I wish she had sung it all the way through the way she started it --- I think it would have been less "Whitney-ish" if she had kept the ballad-like sound throughout.
Michael wrapped up the show with "It's All Wrong But It's All Right". He delivered a bluesy version with some delicious, smoky tones. . . mmm, baby!! He's back!
My rankings:
1. David C.
2. Little David
3. Michael
4. Carly
5. Jason
6. Syesha
7. Brooke
8. Ramiele
9. Kristy Lee
My bottom three would be: Brooke, Ramiele and Kristy Lee and Kristy Lee would go home. However, I predict that America will put Syesha, Ramiele and Brooke in the bottom three and will send Syesha home.
Dolly Parton was this week's mentor --- I'm not the biggest country music fan, but I do love Dolly. She's sweet, she's real and I just like her voice! She's also an incredibly talented songwriter, as we saw in tonight's show.
Brooke opened the show by singing "Jolene". She was a little shaky at the start, a little unsure, but she ended a little stronger. It wasn't a horrible performance, but I wish she'd stop trying to play to the camera --- it always comes off making her look really awkward. And, please Brooke, stop telling the audience "it's all right".
David C. was next, singing his own arrangement of "Little Sparrow". I was a little nervous when I heard him say it was his arrangement (flashbacks of Josiah dismissing the band) but I had no reason to be worried. David gave an outstanding performance, and showed everyone that he has everything it takes to be an American Idol. It was an awesome performance!! Each week I think he can't get any better. . . and then he does.
Tiny, star-struck Ramiele was next singing "Do I Ever Cross Your Mind". For me her performance was just "a-ight". Even on the "post-David" high it was indeed "cruise ship" caliber and a little karaoke.
Jason sang "Travelin' Through" --- I thought it was a very strong showing, second only to his "Hallelujah" night. He's been coasting through on his stage presence and the "cute" factor, but tonight showed that he is also a talented singer.
"Here You Come Again" was Carly's choice tonight. I loved the way she sang this song and thought it was better than Dolly's own version. Great choice, excellent performance! I even thought her wardrobe was much better!
Every time David Cook delivers a stellar performance, I begin thinking that Little David will fall to second place in my heart. . . and then Little David comes out and delivers a performance like tonight's "Smoky Mountain Memories". Somehow he manages to look like he's ALMOST ready to burst into tears without having his voice crack. He pours his whole heart into every song he sings. Love him!! Great choice, excellent delivery!!
Kristly Lee chose "Coat of Many Colors" and also chose to go shoeless to play the "aw shucks" card. All I can say is yuck. Please, please send this girl home.
Syesha (and not Sanjaya) was next with "I Will Always Love You" --- written by Dolly and made famous by Whitney. It was a brave choice (as the judges hardly ever like the Idol's versions better), but I think she did a commendable job. I wish she had sung it all the way through the way she started it --- I think it would have been less "Whitney-ish" if she had kept the ballad-like sound throughout.
Michael wrapped up the show with "It's All Wrong But It's All Right". He delivered a bluesy version with some delicious, smoky tones. . . mmm, baby!! He's back!
My rankings:
1. David C.
2. Little David
3. Michael
4. Carly
5. Jason
6. Syesha
7. Brooke
8. Ramiele
9. Kristy Lee
My bottom three would be: Brooke, Ramiele and Kristy Lee and Kristy Lee would go home. However, I predict that America will put Syesha, Ramiele and Brooke in the bottom three and will send Syesha home.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
