AI Results Show – 03/26/09

Morning Everyone:

Well, let me start by saying “Whaaaa????” and you’ll understand as I go further into my review of last night’s Result Show.

Ryan comes out and walks down that long staircase which scares the crap outta me! He then proceeds to tell us that 36M votes were cast last night…more than any other season for the Top 10. Good competition this year.

He also mentions that RUEBEN Stoddard will be on the show to sing and Joss Stone and Smokey Robinson will sing a duet and Stevie Wonder (!) is here to sing a medley of Motown songs…busy, busy night.

Let’s do a recap of last night’s show….OK, that’s over.

Now, let’s do a medley of Motown songs by the Top 10. Pretty good this week…of course they’ve got great songs to work with.

Have you heard the controversy that’s been going around about these ‘performances by the group’ each week? Wellll, it seems that Justin Guarteri(?) of S1 (which Kelly Clarkson won) let the cat outta the bag by saying that they ‘lipsync’ the words because they have to learn all the dancing steps. I guess it was confirmed by the show’s producers; however, the ACTUAL individual contest songs are LIVE!

Ryan does a History of Motown cause the kids flew to Detroit on a ‘private jet’ (how cool is that??) and had a great time for the short time they were there.

Now we’ll do the Ford Commercial of the week:
Song: Pockets of Sunshine – it was OK. Think I like the first one best so far.

Here’s…..RUEBEN who will sing a single from his new CD, it’s called Together. I like it; it’s catchy. Rueben looks good; looks like he’s still fighting the weight battle. When he’s finished Ryan comes over to talk with him. He’s so big compared to Ryan! And he’s sweating to beat the band…of course, he always sweated when he was in S2. Ryan says, “I understand that you are on Broadway performing Ain’t Misbehavin’” and Rueben was very happy to say “Yes” (in fact, Frenchie Davis is in it with him..good for her). Ryan said, “I see that you got married since the last time we saw you. How is married life?” Rueben said, “Great”. Ryan was pleased with the answer and that was that.

OK….let’s start the Results please:

Dim the lights and here we go:

Adam – SAFE (no duh!)
Matt- Bottom 3 (whaaa?)
Chris – Ryan plays with Chris and then tells him to sit down..Chris says you do this to me every week man!
Lil – SAFE
Mike – Bottom 3 (I expected it but not because he did a bad job the night before. It’s just because the competition is so ticht this year).

Back to some music. Let’s bring on Joss Stone (who is from the UK and is currently in the Showtime series, The Tudors..excellent show) and Smokey (boy does he look good) to sing, You’re The One For Me” – very sexy, hot and enjoyable. Good performance by both of them…Smokey is the BEST.

OK, back to the Results:

Allison – SAFE
Anoop – SAFE
Danny – SAFE
Scott – Bottom 3 (also expected this because he wasn’t as good last night as he could have been…ya gotta kick it up a notch Scott or next week could be it for you).
Megan – SAFE – (Now this is unreal…she did NOT perform well on Wed. night and as pretty as she is, ya can’t sell records cause you’re pretty!!! This is completely unfair to Matt who definitely does NOT deserve to be in the B3).

OK, deep breath, let’s enjoy Stevie Wonder singing a medley of Motown songs.

Ohhhh, Stevie, ya still got it. Did you happen to notice how Paula and Simon are ‘chummy’ while she’s dancing to the music? I wonder???? Anyway, Stevie was great and I loved when he sang a new song and shouted out, I Love You Obama!

Sooo, after all of that, Ryan calls the 3 in the Bottom of the pack to the stage and says, “Randy, who do you think does NOT deserve to be here.” and Randy quickly responds, “MATT Dude, I don’t know what America is thinking but you rock and were great last night.”

Ryan then says, “Let’s send one of you back to the couch…drum roll please….”SCOTT, you can return to the couch, let me help you.”

This leaves Matt and Mike so Ryan says, “After 36M votes last night, the person who has to sing “FOR HIS LIFE” is Mike. Matt, you are safe.” Well, at least they got that one right.

By the way, this “Sing For Your Life” stuff reminds me of So You Think You Can Dance where they have the same ‘theme’ each week.

OK, so Mike sings his song again and he’s just as good as he was the night before.

The Judges are deliberating…it’s like 8:58 and Ryan says, “Cmon guys, give me an answer. Are we going to ’save’ Mike or send him home?” Now I think the girls wanted to keep him but Simon took command and said, “No. Mike you are going home tonight.”

Too bad…should have been Megan.

Have no idea what next week’s theme is but she better ’sing for her life’ next week or she’ll be leaving the building.

We’ll miss ya Mike cause you’re a ‘class act’. CYA on the Tour though!!!

Have a great weekend everyone. Hope your ‘brackets’ hold up in the Basketball pool!

Joanie

AI Top 10 Perform – 03/25/09

Morning Everyone:

The Top 10 will perform songs of the Motown era. I think this is my favorite week of the competition. Great Songs! Tonight we’ll have Smokey Robinson mentoring the kids.

Oh boy…once again, they are ‘announcing’ the Judges from Center Stage. This is so lame! What do you think? By the way, Paula’s dress reminds me of Bjorn’s at the Oscars years ago when she wore a ’swan’ dress!

Ryan is giving us a history of Motown. A lot of fabulous groups came from that era. Did you know that Smokey has written over 4,000 songs over the years? He made a lot of people famous!

This should be fun.
First up tonight will be:

1. Matt who will sing “Let’s Get It On” by Marvin Gaye (one of the best soul singers ever) – I was kinda surprised cause it sounded like Matt started in the middle of the song. Maybe because they are given just so long to sing and it’s a long song. He’s sitting at the piano and he is rockin’. Chose a good song for him. Feels comfy..great start.

Randy: I’m happy about tonight. Let me tell you that your runs and falsettos were awesome.

Kara; Oh yeah…you are hot!

Paula: You are comfortable at the font of the piano and there was NO overdueing the riffing.

Simon: Brilliant choice of song. This type of song suits your voice. I feel you could be a frontrunner after that performance tonight.

2. Kris who will sing “How Sweet It Is” This is a cool song. Super performance. He’s a cute kid. Used his guitar tonight.

Kara: Marvin Gaye or James Taylor – their versions of this song were good – but you made it your own tonight. You had everything tonight.

Paula: Nice to have you come into your own. That end note (was it an “A”?) was fantastic.

Simon: We’re having a good competition tonight. Your version was good but the problem with you Kris is that you don’t have enough confidence in yourself.

Randy: You are consistent – it’s all good.

The Judges jump on Simon because he is telling Kris he should be more like him and they’re saying, “You mean conceited???” Puhleez.

3. Scott will be next and he is singing, You Can’t Hurry Love – another great song. Scott is playing a Grand Piano tonight but, to tell you the truth, I don’t think Scott is going to go too much further. He’s a nice kid and very talented but I don’t see an Idol here.

Paula: You pleased everyone tonight. You were at the piano and still had backup singers right there too. Terrific job. Loved the slowness at the beginning.

Simon: All I could think of was the line from the song, “How Much More Can You Take” and I couldn’t wait for it to be over. It sounded honky tonk to me. It was, once again, the wrong song for you.

Randy: It felt like a hotel performance to me. Not the right song for you dude.

Kara: You bring out libertys with the melody which was good but the execution was not there.

Paula now goes under her desk and comes up with a coloring book and crayons for the ‘child’…Simon! He laughs and start coloring. Ryan says, “He’ll probably only use the black one!”

4. Here come Megan Joy (who feels much better this week) and she will sing, “For Once In My Life” (ohhhh this is certainly one of my faves of allll time). Megan says she’s going to change it up….well m take on this song is this: I thought she was rushing (where’s the bus lady?), she’s struggling and she just doesn’t have the chops toight. Maybe the bug she had last week knocked her for a loop.

Randy: I have mad love for you Megan; the clothes are great too. But the song was like a trainwreck. It felt rushed.

Kara: Well, Megan, it’s true. You should have sung something like My Guy and it would have been a better song for you. You had bad notes and you were ‘freezing’ at times. The song took you over.

Paula: You are stunning beauty who takes my breath away BUT this just wasn’t good for you tonight.

Simon: You look good. But the bad news is you were atrocious and it was an awful arrangement. You could be in big trouble this week Megan.

5. Anoop will sing “I’m Singing This Song For You” by the Miracles – Smokey – Another song that brings back good memories. He is oooh so good tonight. I’m so glad we kept him. Sorry but I’ve just got to listen to this….OK, I’m back…all I can say for Anoop is Good Job dude.

Kara: One of the most beautiful songs ever written. You had chest to head falsettos that were mostly good.

Paula: You have a new found confidence. Your phrasing – delivery – falsetto – were all tender.

Simon: You looked like you were half asleep tonight. You have to find a balance however, you’ve had two good weeks now.

Randy: Next week, turn it back up. It was a little pitchy for me.

6. Mike is now going to sing, “Ain’t Too Proud To Beg” and tells Smokey that he wants to give it Church type of feel. – He’s doing very well. Good song choice and I can hear the Church sound too. Good job Mike.

Paula: For me it was a touch performance. Kinda Las Vegas style to it. You need to dominate the song.

Simon: It was actually bad; I couldn’t wait for it to end. You are a nice guy Mike but you have no chance to win this competition. You’re just not good enough. (but how did you like the performance, Simon?!!)

Randy: This is an unbelievable song but I felt it was too big for you. You’re not an R&B kinda dude.

Kara: It should be about artistry and I didn’t see it here. You’ve got to bring it more.

7. Lil tells Smokey about her tragedy in New Orleans and proceeds to say that she is going to sing, “Heatwave” in tribute to Aretha, Diana Ross and all the great ladies of Motown. — That was nice Lil but, like Megan Joy, you sound like you are gasping for air. What’s wrong? You also sound rushed. Luv ya but this was not one of your best. I DO see you in the Final Four though.

Randy: This song was You for your big voice but the first part was torture for me. And you were rushing it.

Kara: You look great. You are the Diva everyone was waiting to hear tonight but I don’t think you nailed it. There was screaming and breathing problems.

Paula: I love you Lil. I think you ‘owned’ that song.

Simon: It was an authentic tribute to the ladies of Motown. However it was rushed and not your night to shine. Still you are one of the best up there though.

8. ADAM tells Smokey that he wants to sing, “The Track of my Tears” a little slower and asks Smokey what his inspiration was for writing this song. Smokey tells him that it’s about someone whose heart has been broken and has cried so mch that, when you go up close to them, you can see the ‘track of their tears’ on their face. THIS is all that Adam need to hear because, given a motivation, he is all over it……and he was. Oh My God..does he clean up well or what??? He’s so handsome and almost did the song ‘unplugged’. When it was over Smokey and Barry Gordy jumped to their feet (as did the rest of the audience).

Kara: (who also stood) One of the best tonight. YOU have artistry.

Paula: (who stood but, then again, she stands a lot) Once in a great while someone like you comes along and he gives us the element of surprise. You are exciting – You are ‘it’!!

Simon: I would say that was THE best performance of the night. You summed up everything. You have emerged as a STAR.

Randy: You can pull it down and then kick it up. Unbelievable…

9. Danny has the unfortunate timing of coming after Adam….however, Danny is good. Tonight he will sing, “Get Ready” and he does a good job. Love the way he jumped up to where the girl dancers were and did a few steps. He’s very comfy on the stage. Good Job Danny!

Paula: Undeniably one of my favorites this season. You are first class every week.

Simon: I thought it was clumsy and amateurish(?).

Randy: DOPE voice and you can feel the energy.

Kara: Not your best Danny but I’m still a “Danny Fan’.

10. Last up tonight will be Allison who impresses the heck out of Smokey with her rendition of “Papa Was A Rolling Stone” and when hits the stage, she hits it running! WOW she was terrific. What a voice on this kid.

Randy: You may be 165 but you were blazing hot!

Kara: Amazing – You can’t teach that!

Paula: You look fantastic and you were awesome tonight.

Simon: You are a (and I can’t read that word). Oh well…what Simon said was that she was great.

Also, have to say that Barry and Smokey stood for Allison too.

Paula, by the way, is wicked upset. Simon has drawn on her face and she can’t get it off. He is so childish. They should really separate the two of them…but, then again, where would be the drama????

OK, my thoughts are that Allison and Adam were the best of the night.

Whose going home tonight???

Bottom 3 should be:
Scott, Mike and Megan Joy

and, I believe, Megan should be ‘leaving the building’ at the end of the night.

Tonight we will see Smokey, Joss Stone and Rueben perform. Rueben is current on stage performing in AIN’T MISBEHAVING with Frenchie Davis!!!

Catch ya tomorrow.

Joanie

R

AI Results Show – 03/18/09

Hi Everyone:

Last night was certainly a bit of a surprise for me but, then again, the talent is so deep this year that wouldn’t want to be a Judge trying to decide when to SAVE someone!

Randy Travis and Carrie Underwood will perform together and Brad Paisley will also sing.

Ryan said, “Tonight’s result may shock you!”
31M Votes came in last night….WOW!

Ryan does a quick recap of last night’s show and, naturally, they all have a jab at Adam but Randy and Paula stand up for him. Adam will have no worries!

The Top 11 then sing, “Trouble”….it was not good but, then again, it’s country week and not many have been comfy with it!

Now Ryan talks to the 11 contestants and asks if they had a good time doing the Ford commercial over the weekend. Of course they say YES. Ryan then shows it. The song they sing is “Here It Goes Again” not familiar with it. Liked last week’s much better.

Ryan shows a “Behind The Scenes” after Idol Results Night. They all go out to dinner (some with their spouses) and toast the person who has gone home that night. Looks like they all have a good time and are enjoying one another’s company….which is a good thing considering they are all together in that gorgeous mansion.

OK, it’s now like 9:20 so let’s get started on the Results…dim the lights and let’s go to:

Danny – SAFE (no duh!)
Lil – SAFE (same thing)
Anoop – SAFE (good job)
Allison and Mike are then asked to stand up together….Ryan says to Paula, “Pick one of these two for the Bottom 3.” That is so harsh I can’t even begin to tell ya. Paula (who looks really nice by the way)..says it’s impossible…of course Simon is ‘buzzing’ in her ear so everyone can hear…”PICK ONE”..so, in the end, she chooses Allison and is right. Allison is asked to go across the stage and sit in one of the 3 stools (which look wicked uncomfortable!). Now…here’s the catch. Ryan says, “Don’t sit down Mike cause you are also in the Bottom 3!”

So right away, we have two of the three sitting in the stools.

We then have Brad Paisley come out to sing. He’s a cutie. He and his wife (Michelle Williams) are expecting their 2nd child later this year. He sings, I Loved You Anyway…nice song.

My friend, who watches Idol with me, has suggested we all go to youtube and type in Brad Paisley and look for his video of “Waiting On a Woman”. Andy Griffith is in it with him. She says to have a hankie ready….

OK, back to the results.
Let’s bring up:

Scott – SAFE (now I thought he might have been in the Bottom 3 but, instead, he will be going on Tour…cool.)
Megan Joy – SAFE (she looks much prettier tonight and sounds better too)
Chris – SAFE

Now there are only two people left…ADAM and Alexis Grace.

We have to hear all the comments, once again, on Adam’s rendition of RING OF FIRE (which I thought was wicked cool).

So, guess what folks, Alexis Grace will take the third seat to the right of the stage (and she looks none too happy about it)

Carrie (who has matured so much since Season 4 when she won) and Randy Travis will sing “I Told You So”. Randy looks like a country version of Mick Jagger!!!! Nice hair though.

OK, here we go…Ryan calls all 3 to the stage and sends MIKE back to his seat which means either Allison or Alexis Grace will be leaving us tonight…..and, drum roll please, it is ALEXIS GRACE which is a kinda shocker since she was picked to be in the Final Four by oddsmakers. Allison gleefully goes back to her seat.

Ryan says, “OK Alexis, now you have to sing your heart out and hope that the Judges SAVE you.”

Well she has to sing JOLENE again (which is a really crappy song) and does the best she can.

Ryan then says to Simon, “What have you decided?”

Simon says, “All of us talked and said you were good but not quite that good. Sorry, your journey ends tonight, Alexis.” (I knew they wouldn’t use that SAVE just yet).

OK, there you have it. Buh Bye Alexis Grace

Ohhhh, by the way, I thought Mike Sarver was so sweet talking about his 3 1/2 year old daughter who doesn’t understand why daddy isn’t around. He said that it’s really tough but, hopefully, it will be worth it in the end.

Next week will be MOTOWN – Now that should be fun.

One more thing – my heart goes out to Liam Neeson and his family on the loss of his wife, Natasha Richardson. Our prayers are with you.

Talk to you next week,
Joanie

AI Top 11 Perform – 03/17/09

Morning Everyone:

Hope you all had a ’safe’ St. Paddy’s Day!

Last night was reallly interesting, huh? It always is when it’s “Country” week. (sometimes I think they should just do away with these themes).

Anyway, Randy Travis is the mentor and helps the Top 11 with the songs they have chosen. A few he was very impressed with. A few others (Adam in particular) not so much. I think Adam might have ’scared’ him a bit!

Before we start, I saw Simon on one of the gossip shows tonight saying that Michael Jackson may do Idol. He said he would be stupid not to considering how many people watch the show.

Ryan says, “We started with 100K auditions and now it’s down to the Top 11. Remember, after this week, it will be the Top 10 and they will be going on Tour this summer so this is a very important week to VOTE.”

Oh no…the Judges are being announced again and are on the center stage and Ryan comes walking down the long set of stairs. How cheesy is that????

Before we start, let us refresh our memory that Simon HATES country music so this will be as painful for him as it will be for some of the contestants.

OK, here we go:

Ohhh, by the way, apparently Randy Travis watches the show every week because he said that S8 is the strongest group ever!

Mike will sing, “Ain’t Goin’ Down Til The Sun Comes Up” (sounds like a Garth Brooks song to me). WOW..what a hard song to sing. Good job remembering all the lyrics. I’m with Simon on this one; this is definitely Mike’s gendre.

Randy: Cool song choice. Not sure it showed your vocals.

Kara: Like to see your prsonality come out. Very impressive on the words.

Paula: Great Garth Brooks song (aha!) It was fun for us.

Simon: I couldn’t understand a word you were saying. Thought it was a bit clumsy. You’re a nice guy though. (so Mike says to Simon, “If we were all perfect, we wouldn’t need this show!” good comeback, Mike!)

2. Allison will sing “Blame It On Your Heart” by Patty Loveless – This kid (16) is good. Amazing poise for only 16.

Kara: I’m starting to think you can do anything. You’re getting better and better.

Paula: Another rock solid performance. You experiment with what you choose and that’s what makes you a Star!

Simon – Good but it felt tuneless in parts verging on precocious.

Randy: “Dope” (which means he loved it)

3. Chris will sing “To Make You Feel My Love” (I think) by Garth Brooks – This is a beautiful song and Chris had some nice notes. Ya can’t go wrong with Garth…

Paula: I’m pleasantly surprised. It was vulnerable – pure – good vocals.

Simon: Terrific! Great choice of song. You look like you were in control for the 1st time. You could do well here.

Randy: It had some tender moments… Chris the “Tender Dog”!

Kara: I didn’t feel like it was Opry – just Chris Allen!

4. Lil will sing, “Independance Day” by Martina Mac Bride – Ohhh Lil, you can do no wrong. This was a good choice for her.

Randy: Very interesting choice. You are a powerful singer and I felt that it didn’t feel comfortable for you.

Kara: We know you’re great. First half not so good; second half was good.

Paula: Your vocals were spot on, hair, makeup, clothes – however you sang one verse and then straight to the chorus.

Simon: Kinda came ovr that you were forced to sing this song. You could have done something else.

5. Adam will sing, “Ring of Fire” NOT the Johnny Cash version. Now, if you didn’t see him with Randy Travis, too bad cause it was hysterical. I don’t think Randy knew what to make of him and he wasn’t thrilled in the least with Adam’s choice to sing with a sitar playing and slow it way down. We’ll see how he does.

OK, I honestly don’t know what to say. I feel the ‘Elvis’ in his voice and I get what he’s trying to do but I’m not sure the fans out there will get it. I don’t think Simon is gonna like it…me, Loved It!

Kara: Soooo, Adam does country? It was kind of an Egyptian thing. I got the drama – eyes – strange – but I liked it.

Paula: You are so true to who you are. The choice was great. Reminded me of Casmere Led Zeppelin.

Simon: “WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT?” I thought it was indulgent rubbish.

Randy: It was like as if Nine Inch Nails was doing it. It’s current – fresh – hot!

6. Scott will sing “Wild Angels” by Martina MacBride – This is a pretty song. He started to ‘kick it up’ halfway thru but I don’t know if it was enough to save him tonight.

Paula: Impressive, lovely. I’d like to see you come from behind the piano once in a while though and connect with the audience more – NOW, Simon and she get into a free-for-all because he says, ‘What if it’s Elton John week? or Bill Joel? or Stevie Wonder? (and Randy pipes in with or Bruce Hornsby? or Ray Charles?) – I guess Paula had to rethink her comments.

Simon: For me both performances – last week and this week – were the same.

Randy: For me it’s not the songs, it’s the vocals you can do.

Kara: We want you to up your game and choose better songs. You bring class to this competition.

Now…before we go any further….Scott says, “You have to pick a song out of a hat and I just didn’t get a song I was hoping for.” hmmmm

7. Alexis will sing “Jolene” by Dolly Parton…come to think of it, if you look closely at Alexis, she looks like Dolly. – she does a decent job but I don’t care for the repetitiveness of this song. Not one of my faves.

Randy: Thought it was pitchy in parts. Good song choice for you.

Kara: You lost your edge a bit (maybe could have chosen ‘Before He Cheats?’) It was flat.

Paula: It was more effective for you. Sometimes you have to show your soft vulnerable side.

Simon: It was OK. Almost like a ’soundalike’ for me.

They all then told her she has to get ‘naughty’ again for next week!

9. Danny will sing “Jesus Take The Wheel” by Carrie Underwood who received all kinds of awards for this song. – WOW – Danny – Final @!!! That’s all I can say.

Kara: When you hit your stride it’s like none other. The second half was great.

Paula: I love when you build a story. You brought it. Brilliant. Carrie would love it.

Simon: You have to build on a song like that and what’s with the clothes? (of course Randy jumps on Simon that who is he to talk about clothes!)

Randy: Verses – you need to support them more.

9. Anoop – will sing, “You’re Always On My Mind” by Willie Nelson (now this song brings back memories for me and my friend Barb but that’s another story!) – I’m crying already and he’s just started (of course it could be cause I watched SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE today!!!) What a performance. I’m so happy they kept him. I knew he had a good voice. It was nice and slow so you could hear all the words.

Paula: I’m so proud of you tonight. I’m lovin’ it.

Simon: You manage to go from a ZERO to a HERO with that choice of song. You deserve to be here.

Randy: This is the reason we wanted to keep you here. And I like the arrangement too.

Kara: This is a classic song. It was amazing – best performance of the night.

10. Megan Joy will sing, “Walkin’ After Midnight” by Patsy Cline (talk about a classic song!) – She sounds awful tonight…this is not the Megan Joy we’ve heard in the past. And I don’t like her clothes, hair, makeup…..I dunno.

Randy: I was quite impressed. You had the rock/bluezy feel. Good song choice.

Kara: This was the perfect song for you AND you have the flu.

Paula: You’ve been in and out of the hospital this past week and you’re a real trouper to sing tonight. Shows what you’re made of.

Simon: You look gorgeous and sounded good.

Who Knew???? By the way, she has Influenza B

And to end the show tonight, we have:

11. Matt who will sing, “So Small” by Carrie Underwood (don’t know this song) – OK, pretty good. I’m not over the moon with this performance though. I know Matt can do better.

Kara: Nothing small about you Matt. You are a true talent – Amazing.

Paula: You have authenticity about you. The honesty that you bring to your songs is great.

Simon: I don’t think you’ve had enough credit. You almost have a Michael Bubble feel about you (which isn’t a bad thing!)

Randy: Fave of the night! You got it! You’re growin’ on me baby!

So there you have it.
Boy is it going to be hard to pick someone to go home tonight.

My guess is either:

Scott or Mike or Megan Joy

which shows you how deep the talent is this year.

Just one more note – My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Natasha Richardson. I hope that her brain injury is not life threatening and she will be fine. She has a wonderful family and two small boys, 13 and 12. – Get Better Natasha.

Talk to you tomorrow,

Joanie

AI Top 13 – Results Show – 03/11/09

Good Morning Everyone:

Well, I’m dying to hear what the big news is tonight on what will ‘change the face of AI’!

By the way, the show is based in Hollywood, Studio 36 which is owned by EW.

Oh good – the Judges are at the table tonight already. 33M votes came in which Ryan said is ‘unbelievable’ for this early in the competition.

OK – Ryan is going to explain the ‘twist’. First of all he shows, on the big screen, pics of Michael Johns, Jennifer Hudson and Chris Daughtry and says, “Remember these faces? They were all voted off AI in shockers. Who knows, if we had a chance to save them, they may have won. So this year we have decided that the Judges will have ONE CHANCE to SAVE a person if he or she is booted off the show and the Judges feel that they deserve another chance. But, remember, they can only do this ONCE!”

So there you have it. Very interesting. Doubt if they’ll use it until maybe 4 or 5 are left and someone gets voted off that we all love.

Ryan now shows, on the big screen, the new digs where the contestants will be living while on the show. WOW! It’s amazing. How beautiful. It has everything…bowling alleys, basketball court, swimming pool, jacuzi WOWZIE WOW WOW

Now the Top 13 will sing a medley of MJ songs. – It’s actually not bad. Better than last week when they couldn’t harmonize.

It’s tough for these kids. Ryan says that they didn’t get to bed until after midnight and were up at 7 this morning.

He talked to Mike Sarver to see how he was doing and he said, “I’m tired but so excited because we did a Ford Commercial last night and it was awesome.” So Ryan says, “Let’s watch it.”
It’s to the tune, “We Will Rock You”.

OK, there’s a lot to get to tonight so let’s get started….

Mike Sarver – SAFE
ALLISON – SAFE
JASMINE – please come to the center stage
Matt G. – SAFE
Kris – SAFE
Megan – please come to center stage

OK, so now you have Jasmine and Megan. On performance alone last night, I feel that Megan’s ‘Rockin Robin’ was the worst of the two; however, if it were my call…I’d go with Jasmine because Megan Joy has so much potential and Jasmine jus isn’t ready for the spotlight just yet.
Well, guess what..it’s Jasmine who is going home. – Good Call.
Ryan then shows the time that Jasmine has been with us to Carrie’s song, “Home Sweet Home”. She’s a little sad but she should try again…unless the Judges SAVE her.

Ryan then introduces, Kanye West who gives us a rendition of one of his rap songs…not a rap fan but Kanye is cool.

Let’s go with more results:

Scott – SAVE (that’s good)
Alexis – SAFE
DANNY – SAFE (no duh!)
ANOOP – please come to center stage (no surprise here)
ADAM – SAFE (did you hear all the kids screaming???)
Jorge – please come to center stage
Lil – SAFE

OK, now we have Anoop and Jorge standing there, but first let’s see a performance by Kelly Clarkson who will sing Ryan’s new favorite song from her new CD that’s out this week.

Kelly looks terrific and her voice is strong and clear. Our FIRST AI and she’s still selling records and getting awards…good for her.

OK, back to Anoop and Jorge – Ryan says, “After America voted, the person going home tonight is Jorge.” It was a tough call but, in the end I think Anoop has more potential than Jorge…could be wrong on this one though.

So now you have Jasmine and Jorge – do the Judges SAVE either one???? NO.

In fact, when Ryan asks Simon if they are going to save Jorge, he says, very bluntly, “No – Sorry” Simon doesn’t know what tactful is I guess!

Alright – that’s it for this week…on to next week. Let’s see what the Top 11 will be singing then!

Take care and have a great weekend.

Joanie

AI Top 13 Perform – 03/10/09

Good Morning Everyone:

Well it was quite a night for the Top 13 but before I start typing my “Idol Thoughts”, and losing my mind trying to remember everything that is about to happen…a few things.

The Idol ‘wannabes’ will be performing songs from the Michael Jackson Songbook (interesting that they would choose him first). I think Matt Giraud sang an MJ song last week?

The “Buh Bye” song this season will be Carrie Underwood’s, “Home Sweet Home” which is a remake of Motley Crue’s song.

OK…here we go.

What is this? They are announcing the Judges from the Center Stage? Don’t you think that’s stupid? I do. Even Ryan’s entrance was dumb (opening a gate to walk down all those stairs…tell ya something, if that was me, I’d take a header for sure and tumble down to center stage and go, “Ta Da!”

Another announcement:
Two will go home tomorrow night!
Now, before the contestant performs, we have to sit thru their background and families…..etc. Sometimes it’s interesting but I’m not going to write about everyone’s background.

First Up is:

1. Lil Rounds will sing THE WAY YOU MAKE ME FEEL – Now this is a great MJ song cause it gets everyone up and clapping. Good choice for her. Great start for the evening.

Randy: This is how we kick off Season 8. You are an old sold. YES

Kara: It’s perfect. You’re telling all the other contestants that, they ALL have to kick it up a notch.

Paula: The softness of Lil (the change in Paula’s face..a little botox there Paula?). Your makeup, outfit, hair, it all works. You sound like Angels singing.

Simon: Good but lazy choice. And, by the way, I hate what you’re wearing…

2. Scott (will play the piano tonight) – will sing KEEP THE FAITH – Scott is comfy sitting at the piano. I’m not familiar with this song but Scott’s got a very powerful voice and is one great guy. Hope he goes thru.

Kara: You just beamed this week. Glad to see you at the piano. Your message is hopeful for all out there struggling to make it in this business. Wasn’t dynamic but good.

Paula: It was a lively performance. The composer is here tonight and I think she is very proud of the way you sang her song.

Simon: Well I know I’m going to get booed but I hated the song. I like you though.

Randy: I liked the song but it had no passion. It was too safe.

3. Danny (one of our faves) will sing PRETTY YOUNG THING – Ohhh Yah! I think this is the best I’ve heard Danny sing. He got us all rocking. Like the way he started out slow and then let it wail. He’ll be going thru to next week, no problem.

Paula: Way To Go, Danny. You take it all in. You are a true artist. I close my eyes and see you going all the way.

Simon: Paula…we still have a few more weeks to go! Danny – Your vocals are brilliant. You remind me of Michael McDonald (of the Doobie Bros.). (He also would be great doing a Michael Bubble song but that’s just my own opinion). CYA next week.

Randy: Amazing up tempo. Loved it all cause it was real. (Simon is in the background saying, “Oh Randy!!)

4. Mike Sarver will sing YOU’RE NOT ALONE – I forgot what a great voice this kid has. Nice song for him! Another one who I hope that makes it thru.

Simon: Not the best singer in the group but you make up for it with passion, heart and 110% of yourself.

Randy: You did R&B when we first saw you and now you’re back.

Kara: You really can sing (no duh!) You hit those high notes.

Paula: You have a lot going for you. This song was perfect for you.

5. Jasmine Murray – will sing I’LL BE THERE (one of MJ’s more popular songs). She’s OK but she’s not knockin’ me off the couch.

Randy: I helped Mariah Carey record this song years ago. You did a pretty good job. You surprised me.

Kara: You have great stage presence for being as young as you are.

Paula: Tremendous composure on the stage. You overwhelmed me.

Simon: There’s not much more than I can add. It was a little bit robotic for me. And, once again, I think you should ‘lighten up’.

6. Kris Allen will sing REMEMBER THE TIME (this is the song MJ sang in a video with Eddie Murphy as the Pharouh????) which he will sing with his guitar. – Kris is a good kid but a lightweight. I’m shaky on his talent but I’m sure he’ll be going thru for a few more weeks anyway.

Kara: I’m happy to see you with your guitar. It was a few notes off.

Paula: I truly believe no one knows MJ’s catalog as well as you do! And…the girls think you are a ‘hottie’!

Simon: I don’t know if it was that good. OK but not good. You shouldn’t have brought the wife out so soon though…(hmmm????)

7. Allison will sing GIVE IT TO ME – I got nothin’ on this girl. She’s a terrific singer but she didn’t “WOW” me with this song. I’m sure she’ll be going thru for a while though.

Paula: It’s mind boggling how good you are…and I love your hair.

Simon: That was a good performance. You know what kind of artist you are.

Randy: You got the chops…you can sing! You are someone to watch this Season.

Kara: You’re a rocker. Walls come tumbling down with some of those notes you hit.

8. Anoop – will sing BEAT IT – Now I’d admire Anoop for tackling one of MJ’s best known songs but, then again, he could crash and burn…let’s see how he does. – Not so good unfortunately. He seemed awkward with the steps. He’s cool but geeky. I do like him though but he could be shown the door tomorrow night.

Paula: When you pick a ‘trademark’ MJ song, you’ve got to sell it and you didn’t. In fact, I thought it was kareoke.

Simon: Well I’ll go even further and say it was horrible – lightweight – stupid – and what the heck was that with the dancing!

Randy: It was just the wrong song for you Snoop Anoop. And I like you.

Kara: The biggest problem for me was I didn’t hear any change in the riffs that I know you’re so good at.

9. Jorge will sing – NEVER CAN SAY GOODBYE – Now I thought he did an admirable job considering his struggle with the language! I definitely give him props for attempting it.

Randy: I love what you do. It’s kind of an old fashioned song though (what else is he supposed to do…it’s an MJ song Randy????) The upper range was kind of rough.

Kara: I didn’t feel it. Maybe if you had sung “She’s Ought Of My Life” it would have been better (I disagree Kara – I thought he chose the right song).

Paula and Simon both ask Jorge why he chose this song and he said that he didn’t have much choice. It wasn’t his style and I didn’t think it was the right fit for my voice but I did my best.” – And you did.

Simon: I thought it was corny and you were out of your depth. And the arrangement was bad. Not a good song choice.

10. Megan will sing – ROCKIN’ ROBIN (whoa, this is a song from the 50s….it must have been on an MJ CD). – She’s a sweet kid but this is not for her. Bad choice and I think it’s gonna cost her tomorrow night.

Kara: You have a style about you that’s not overwhelming but I wanted to see more.

Paula: I felt disconnected until the end.

Simon: We all like you but what a stupid song choice. I thought it was clumsy – awful.

Randy: song choicer wasn’t good for you.

11. ADAM will sing – BLACK OR WHITE (I loved this video years ago when all the faces would intertwine with one another) – What can I say about Adam. Just give him the confetti now…the kid is one of a kind!!!!

Paula: Take it all in Adam (she said the same thing to Danny). Never before in the history of AI have I seen someone who is so ready for stardom. You are the whole package.

Simon: That was to me a totally different performance than anyone else tonight!

Randy: You are ready to do a CD now.

Kara: You hit notes I didn’t know existed!

Ahhhh, I think he’ll go thru to next week….

12. Matt G. will sing – HUMAN NATURE – A real catchy MJ song. He did a commendable job selling it…cute kid.

Randy: Good performance.

Kara: You are very talented.

Paula: You are talented and authentic.

Simon: You are a ‘meat and potatoes’ kinda guy. Good performance.

13. Alexis Grace will sing – DIRTY DIANA – (one of my friends who watches with me thought Allison should have sung this song). Well we all know that Alexis has the pipes. I have no fault with her singing this song. And, by the way..she looks hot!

Kara: You’ve back. You are a naughty girl and I liked it!

Paula: Watch the oversinging.

Simon: Not as good as you thought it was.

OK, with that said – Ryan said that tomorrow night there is going to be an announcement that could change ‘the face of Idol”…Simon hinted that maybe the Judges will get a chance to vote this year. We’ll have to wait and see.

And…be careful if you vote for Alexis cause if you dial IDOLS13, you will get a ‘hot, sexy lady who’ll want to talk to you”…..it’s IDOLS36

Well they’ve all performed and now we have to choose 2 to go home…who will they be?

I’m guessing:

Anoop (sorry dude but that rendition of Beat It was not your thing)

Megan – Rockin’ Robin was not for you.

“Wild Card” – in my estimation would be Jasmine. I know everyone loves this girl but I just don’t think she’s ready. I know Jordin Sparks was young too but she had a maturity about her that this girl doesn’t have. – Allison does though.

OK, there you have it.

Let’s all hold our breath and hope our favorites go thru!!!

Talk to you tomorrow.

Joanie

AI – Wild Card Round 3-3-09

Morning Everyone:

Well it was quite a jam filled hour or so last night. Who would have believed we would have wound up with some of the performers that we did.

Let’s see how they did:

1. Jesse -will sing Tell Me Something Good – Boy, she’s sexy! Hot! Hot! Hot! Not a bad voice either.

Randy: I’m not sure if you sang it that well.

Kara: I had some issues but you have a ’swagger’ about you.

Paula: I’m so impressed. You have a lot of soul in you.

Simon: You were the last girl we chose. I thought the song was a little indulgent…

2. Matt Giraud will sing Whose Loving You – Another tough choice for one of the final stools. However, what a song and voice. Like this kid. He nailed it.

Kara: Well, you brought back the bluesy old Matt. Great voice.

Paula: Right zone for you. You’re back. This is you. Amazing.

Simon: It was again – better than last week. Poor outfit though (at which point the other judges hollered at him!)

Randy: You have everyone else scared. That was hot!

3. Megan Joy – will sing Black Horse in a Cherry Tree – (now I think this is a song that Katharine McPhee sang and Simon wasn’t too impressed…let’s see how Megan does). She’s cute but I don’t think she’s a Top 12 kinda gal.

Paula: You picked the right song.

Simon: I like you Megan. You’re current, original. However, it was not the best vocal.

Randy: I can see you making these kinda records.

Kara: We need variety. I hope you stay.

Well I guess I was dead wrong here!

4. Von Smith will sing Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word – I thought he did a decent job. The kid has a great voice. Don’t know – sad to say – if it was enough to put him thru…if not, come back again next year Von…you will mature a little more and be in the Top 12 then.

Simon: Love that song. But you are beginning to become a bit of a bore Von. You changed from when we first saw you. (that’s because…Simon..you told him to ‘tone it down’ during auditions and probably scared the heck outta the kid!)

Randy: You had a different vibe tonight.

Kara: Not crazy about the song. It was too dark for you.

Paula: What I see is when Your technical, you’re not good. You have to count on the fact that you are good.

5. Now we have little Jasmine Murray, 16 who will sing Reflection. I think they made a mistake putting this girl thru. Where’s Ju’Not???
Don’t think she chose the right song either.

Randy: The song was too big for you.

Kara: I didn’t even know you had a big voice.

Paula: Beautiful song.

Simon: That was pretty special. You are a young girl trying to look grown up.

6. RICKY BRADDY – will be singing Superstition – Boy do I love Ricky but I’m not sure if he chose the right song at this point in time. He should have sung something that showed his vocal range. I’m worried.

Paula: Again, I was surprised by your voice. You nailed it.

Simon: You have to say to us – “Bring me back” This performance was a bit clumsy.

Randy: I don’t think it was your best and you’ve got the nuts!

7. Oh boy…here she is, the one and only Tatiana who will be singing Saving All My Love For You. I love this song and I think she did a fair job. I’m just worried about the rest of the package she would bring to the show. (By the way, I was laughing when she was saying how grateful she was to be back for a second chance and Simon had his hand on his head like he was going to faint!)

Paula: You grew an accent since we saw you last. Once again, you repeated that song.

Simon: What’s that now..3 times we’ve heard you sing this song? If you get to the next round, what will you sing???

Randy: It was a mixed bag for me. It had good and bad moments.

Kara: Whose is this person tonight????

And, last but not least, we have:

8. Anoop (Dog) who will sing My Perogative (Bobby Brown..??) All I can say is this kid is goin thru!!!! Great job.

Simon: It’s been a strange night. Not the best singer but people like you and that’s what counts. We have to cast the personality here.

Randy: You know aht? I love you better tonight.

Kara: I wanted to dance (and I don’t dance)

Paula: You are a showman. Some of those moves were ‘nasty’ Anoop! Everyone loves you.

OK, 3 go thru…my friends and I have chosen:

Anoop
Megan
Matt

Let’s see how we do.

Ryan calls up:

Jasmine – Take a seat Jasmine, you have made it thru. (I’m a little shocked…)

Ricky – (oh boy, I don’t want to hear this). Buh B Bye….(please try again Ricky!!!!)

Megan – You are going thru…take a seat.
(good choice)

Tatiana – Buh Bye (whew)
Jesse – Buh Bye (She almost made it Simon said).
Von – Buh Bye (I’m sure it’s not the last we’ve seen of you Von.
Matt and Anoop are now brought to the stage. Well, this is going to be intesting cause we love them both. Ryan pauses and says, “Matt – take a seat” Anoop seems like he’s going to cry and before he walks to the other side of the stage, Simon says, “You know Anoop, you were so good, we couldn’t see letting you go so we’re going to have a Top 13!

How exciting was that! Anoop was flabbergasted.

Speaking of flabbergasted…how did you like Tatiana going on her knees in front of the judges’ table…Simon says, “Paula, you talk to her please!!”

So there you have your Top 13.

Remember, next week is the crying, screaming, fainting, etc. cause it’s ONE A WEEK now until May.

Do you think we can make it??????

Have a great weekend everyone.

Joanie

AI Results Show 03-04-09

Morning Everyone:

Thought I’d try and tackle my review of last night’s show as early as I could.

Ryan never said how many votes were cast last night but in week’s past it was 24M and 25M so I’m assuming it was right in that ballpark.

We do a few minutes of chatting with the Judges and get their opinions of last night’s performances.

Now Ryan does a quick recap of the show. (Still think Ju’Not, Scott and Lil were the best).

Now we get the 12 to sing: Katie Perry’s “Hot and Cold” – Have to say that the other two groups did a better job with their group number.

Now, let’s get to the results….because we are also going to have the Judges choose a group of performers from past shows who will compete tomorrow night for the last 3 spots in the Top 12.

Let’s call up Lil Rounds first…now this is different because they usually save the ‘best’ for last (as in Danny and Adam); however, since most of us feel that she will go forward, let’s see what Ryan says….”Congratulations, Lil. You have made it to the Top 12. Please take a seat over where the other six are sitting.” She was elated and saw was the audience. Of course, hubby was ‘thrilled’ and also knows he’s gonna keep watching those 3 kids!!!!

Next, Ryan calls up:

Amanca – Buh Bye
Taylor – Buh Bye
Alex – Buh Bye (although I was sad to see Alex go. He’s a sweet kid)

Now Ryan calls up:

Kendall – Buh Bye (beautiful girl, lovely voice – another time, another place)
Scott – Got a resounding YOU’RE THRU TO THE TOP 12 from Ryan and everyone was very happy to hear this. I just read an article about Scott in my Enquirer and this kid has his Master’s Degree in Music and was sent overseas on a Fulbright Scholarship to study. He also had his music teacher donate a kidney when his shut down. He’s been thru a lot in his short life. It’ll be great to see him perform next week at his piano).

Now Ryan brings up:

Nate Marshall – Buh Bye
Kristin – Buh Bye (although she has a great voice and is very pretty)
Felicia – Buh Bye
Von – Buh Bye (sad to see this kid go cause he’s got a lot of potential….who knows!)

Now we have Ju’Not and Jorge left. Oh boy, this is bad cause both are great. I and my friend who watch together love them both but think that Ju’Not is the better singer. However, the votes were tallied and JORGE will take the last seat to make up the Top 9. – My friend says she may ‘boycott’ the show but I hope she doesn’t. We’ve got some real talent this year…more than years past.

So hears where we stand; we’ve got 9 seated and 3 more seats to fill. The Judges talked among themselves and decided to bring a group back and choose EIGHT to perform tomorrow night for the coverted 3 spots that are left.

And they are:

Von Smith – YAY
Jasmine Murray (I’m surprised but hopefully she’ll do better)
Ricky Braddy (Thank You Paula…you loved him in Round One and I had a feeling since he didn’t go thru the first week that you would choose him to come back)
Megan Joy Corkery (wicked talent here)
Tatiana (MUST WE????)
Ya know, I gotta say that I think Ju’Not should have taken this spot…just my opinion.
Matt Giraud – YAY
Jessie (pretty red head who sang Kim Carnes)
and…..Anoop

Great choices. Tomorrow night is going to be VERY hard for the Judges to choose three.

Let’s hope they ALL bring their BEST to the center stage.

Good Luck To All.

Results Tomorrow..Joanie

AI Last 12 Perform 03-03-09

Goodaye Everyone:

Hope you didn’t get hit with the snowstorm that belted New England last weekend. Where I live, we’ve had over 70″ of snow this winter! ENOUGH!!!

So this is the last 12 of the Top 36. Some say they’ve saved the best for last..we’ll see.

First up is:

Von Smith, 22 (now I really like Von and I hope he doesn’t ’scream’ his song tonight.) He will be singing, “You’re All I Need To Get By” by Marvin Gaye (cool song). Von does very well with the song. He’s calm yet powerful when he has to be. The kid is cute and does have a good voice. Hmmmm, Top 12?

Randy: Tonight you were HOT. Loved the performance. Welcome to the show folks.

Kara: You are coming into your own. Your notes are calmer. Liked it.

Paula: You were memorable to me from the first moment I saw you. You know how to attack a song.

Simon: You kind of remind me of Clay Aiken. You are much better than the last time I heard you at Hollywood week.

2. Taylor, 17 who will sing, “If I Ain’t Got You Babe” by Alicia Keys. Oh boy…from the first note, Taylor slipped up. Buh Bye Taylor.

Kara: You’ve got a voice but you had some issues tonight. It left me a bit cold.

Paula: You have a beautiful voice but this was not a good song choice for you.

Simon: My problem was I couldn’t remember you from before because you’re ‘bland’. I have a feeling you’re going to struggle tonight.

Randy: You told us nothing about you with this song choice. It was boring.

3. Alex – This kid is funny. He’s a little scrawny and said he’s been ‘pumping up’ since Hollywood week. He’ll be singing, “That’s Why They Call It The Blues” by Elton John. – Alex has a good voice and I can see a ‘geeky’ audience who will pull for him. I liked it when he slammed the mic down (by mistake!?).

Paula: You’re the showman. Very entertaining.

Simon: It was fun watching you but not listening to you. You look like a hampster trying to be a tiger??!!

Randy: It was a ‘buck wild’ kinda thing for me. You screamed the song.

Kara: At least you do your own choreography. Ditch the growls though.

4. Arianna, 17 who will sing, “The Winner Takes It All” by Abba. Oh boy. This song is much bigger than Arianna’s voice. Not even with the orchestra helping out. Buh Bye

Simon: Absolutely terrible. It was bigger than you.

Randy: You being 17, I would have thought you would have chosen a song closer to your age group.

Kara: We’re disappointed in you. Be Young.

Paula: You had some bright moments but it was old fashioned for you.

5. Ju’Not Joyner, 26 will sing, “Hey There Delilah” by Plain White Ts. Ohhhh, good voice, good choide of song, good phrasing…like it.
(didn’t realize this was a fast song originally)

Randy: Ju’not You took a fast song(!) and made it your own. I loved it.

Kara: Smooth – You got ridiculous pipes!

Paula: Great – cause you changed it up and it paid off.

Simon: Better than what I thought it could be. A little safe for me. (Then Ju’not goes on to explain that he had a corisone shot in his butt for his voice and the Judges said..”Too Much information”!!!)

6. Kristen will sing “Give Me One Good Reason” by Tracey Chapman (whatever happened to Tracey?)
This girl sounds good. She’ve very pretty too which doesn’t hurt. She kinda looks like the actress that’s in that House Bunny movie!

Kara: You’re a great singer. I see you doing a Kelly/Pink-type of song.

Paula: In Hollywood, you sang a Kelly C. song and it was great. This song showed your range.

Simon: You’ve gone from hip to mom’s clothes. Who are you? (then they all start babbling about shopping and it gets pretty silly stupid). You have a good voice.

Randy: You tried to do too much with the song.

7. Nathaniel Marshall, 19 will sing “I’ll Do Anything For Love” by Meatloaf. Now Nate was the kid going all “Drama Queen” on us during Hollywood week but he does have a good voice and he wasn’t that bad. I just wish he’d tone down the ‘gay’ aspect of who he is. We don’t care Nate. We like you for your voice.

Simon: I think you probably would! (commenting on the title of the song) I think it was verging on excruciating. Uncomfortable. You are fun though and I do like you.

Randy: Why did you choose that song Nate? – Answer: Because me and my mum used to dance to it when I was a kid. Randy: I’m trying to figure out what type of CD you would make.

Kara: You’ve got a voice but you should show another, softer side of you.

Paula: I love you and you sang Disturbia during Hollywood week and it was great. (Simon says, “You’re incredible Paula. How can you remember all of these songs???)

Then they start teasing Simon and Ryan asks Nate to go up and introduce himself to Simon and Ryan tries to take Nate’s headband and put it on Simon’s head which ain’t gonna happen!!!

8. Felicia, 26 will sing, “No One” by Alicia Keys (2 Alicia songs tonight!) OK, it’s a good song but it’s too big for her. She’s trying too hard. It’s not working.

Paula: Isn’t it funny how the universe works. (now Paula is saying this because Joanne Pacita(?) was part of the Top 36 when they ‘cut her from the group’ and brought in Felicia). Hope you come back again and again.

Simon: I thought it was a big copycat of the song. The 1st part was good; the 2nd part was bad.

Randy: You have a little different tone than Alicia.

Kara: The problem is you had a struggle with some of the notes. I do like the bangs though. Good Job.

9. Scott McIntyre will sing, “Mandalin Rain” by Bruce Hornsby. I want this kid to be in the Top 12 so much. He has a good voice but I didn’t care for the song that much. I do think he’ll be Top 3!

Randy: Great big notes. I can hear the passion in your voice.

Kara: You move mountains when you sing.

Paula: I love you. I can’t wait to hear you play the piano in the Top 12.

Simon: You’re growing on me. There are better singers in this sea of forgettable people. I can’t believe you won’t sail thru to the next round. (YES!!!)

10. Kendall, 24 will sing, “Listen To The Girls” by Martina McBride. Now here’s the story on Kendall. She’s beautiful (love those teeth), has a pleasant voice (better than even Kellie Pickler I think) but she doesn’t need this contest as much as others. Seems to me that Kendall can do fine without it.

Kara: You picked the right song but you had some issues. Like your personality.

Paula: Best outfit of the night! I hope you enjoyed it.

Simon: I think you made the right choice. I lot of people like country. I’m not one of them.

Randy: Well I like country songs. My issue is it wasn’t your best vocal.

11. Jorge Nunez, 21 – We met Jorge in Puerto Rico and since then he has been working night and day to learn English and sing songs in English. This may have hurt him tonight. He will be singing, “Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me” by Elton John (2 Eltons tonight!) Well, he surprised me. Even though he struggles with the words, he’s very good.

Paula: (who was standing the whole time) I am so proud of you. You worked with a dialect coach and did me proud.

Simon: (reeling in Paula) I think we were wrong. You should be who you are.

Randy: The vocals were really, really good.

Kara: You were born to sing. You touch people.

Jorge says, “Thank you. I am crying because when I get emotional I think in Spanish.” – this kid is terrific and should be in the Top 12 – I hope, when he gets there, he’ll sing a Marc Anthony, Enrique Iglesias or Ricky Martin song. He’s wonderful.

And last for the night we have:

12. Lil Rounds, 24 – mother of 3 (whose hubby is home watching them!!!) – She will be singing, “Be Without You” by Mary J. Blige.

Well the first week we saved Danny for last.

The second week we saved Adam for last.

And now this week we’ve got Lil for last and she can stand right beside the other two because she is a STAR. Love this girl….

Simon: Lil – I’ll be brief. BRILLIANT – I wouldn’t have sung that song. You have great, great prospects.

Randy: One of the best this season. You kept your ’swagger’ on!

Kara: You are a powerhouse!!!!!

Paula: First Class We’ll be seeing you for many more Lil Rounds!!!

So there you have it for the night. The last 12 to perform, 3 of which will move ahead. Who will they be???

1. Lil Rounds (no contest)
2. Scott McIntyre
3. Ju’Not

Wild Card for the this group should be Jorge and Kristen.

Now, here’s a ‘look ahead’ on what’s going to happen on Thursday night.

The Judges can choose ANYONE who has performed before. It doesn’t have to be anyone in the Top 36. Sooo, with that said, I’m hoping they bring back David Osmond and Michael Castro and even Jamar Rogers.

Other Wild Card Choices could be:

Ricky Braddy
Anoop
Jesse
Matt Giraud
Megan Joy Corkery
and..even.. Tatiana

For now we have:
Adam Lambert
Alexis Grace
Chris Allen
Allison
Danny Gorkey
and Mike Sarver

CYA tomorrow…Joanie