American Idol Results, Week 2

Well, my predictions are right on.  We are saying good bye to John Parks and Jermaine or the guys and fLacey Brown and Michelle for the girls.  No big surprise. 

Ryan introduced Danny Gokey back to the Idol stage much to my delight!  Sonny had just told me today that he had heard Danny had an album released this week.  He’s singing “My Best Days” from his album. Wow, he looks and sounds GREAT!! Love this guy!  Ellen says he was fantastic and they put him through. Ryan chats with Danny about why he went the country route and how his song is #5 on iTunes. Go Danny! Danny speaks (a mile a minute) on how the songwriter also lost his wife and how special the song is to him. Great story! He seems so excited about his music! I love his attitude. I am so happy and proud for Danny and his post-idol success! Now that was a great elimination night performance! I love it when they bring back previous Idols.

American Idol Recap - Girls Week 2

Crystal Bowersox singing "As Long As I Can See Light"   I love her and am so glad she is back!!  Evidently, there was a lot of talk about her being really sick and possibly getting disqualified.  She rocked!!
Judges:  Randy:  Truth is reality. You are the truth. You do what you do. I love that girl. That girl is hot.
Ellen:  Raw, natural talent. I am so glad you are here today. You are amazing.
Kara:  You completely recovered from last week. You come out here effortless and it is coming from your heart. Tonight you hit a new level. 
Simon:  You didn’t play the sympathy thing. You picked a great song. The vocal was incredible. This was the moment we realized we have a serious artist here.

Haeley Vaughn singing The Climb.  That smile of hers drives me crazy!!  Of course, she is only 16 so I guess i should cut her some slack.  I think she will be GONE next week. I totally agree with Simon this time. She just needs to work on it and try again next year.
Judges:  Randy:  It didn’t work for me. It was excruciating. You can sing but it was so pitchy and not like you. You had no connection with the song.  Ellen:  You’re adorable. You didn’t connect to the song and it was like you just memorized the song and you sang it. It didn’t work out. 
Kara:   You’re open on the stage, you’re always smiling but you need about a year of strengthening your instrument.  Simon:   It was a complete and utter mess.

Lacey Brown singing "Kiss Me"   I kinda like this gal and didn't think she did as bad as the judges thought.
Judges:  Randy:  I think it was a good choice but I felt like I was at karaoke. You didn’t do anything special with it.   Ellen:   You didn’t change it up but it was adorable. It was the right song.
Kara:  Last week you were losing your tone, this week you brought it back with this song but you have to step it up. You didn’t push it to where it could have gone.
Simon:  It was marginally better than last week. You are taking part in the competition and not showcasing as an artist. We aren’t going to remember it.

Katie Stevens singing "Put Your Records On"  I thought she was pretty good and will be safe this week.  She's real young too - 17 - so still needs to figure out who she is but this song was a lot younger than last week's choice.
Judges:  Randy:  There were some bright moments. You can tackle things that are a bit more difficult. Believe a little bit more that you can tackle bigger songs. 
Ellen:   You have a great voice and you sang it well. I don’t want to hear something I would hear in my dentist office.
Kara:   I am so frustrated with you. At the end of the song you started opening up. You have to be doing that the first time you open your mouth. I am still waiting for that moment with you.
Simon:  You did take notes. You need to tell us what kind of recording artist you want to be. You will stay around another week but it wasn’t a winning performance.

Didi Benami singing "Lean On Me"  No ... I didn't like her version of this song.  Poor gal - trying not to cry after the judges raked her over the coals.  Think she might be in trouble.
Judges:  Randy:   I would have not chosen a soul song like that for you. It shows your imperfections. (Ellen:   I love your voice. You have a great voice. I don’t know if that was the greatest song choice. Kara:   It wasn’t good. You were trying to do a lot of things and we lost the uniqueness but I am still a fan.
Simon:   It was all over the place. It was screeching. Bad choice of song.

Michelle Delamor singing "With Arms Wide Open"  I couldn't listen to her while trying to figure out what she had on!  Evidently, Ellen & Randy liked it .... not ME.  I didn't like her performance.
Judges:  Randy - The outfit is hot, it is dope. You didn’t do enough with it. It fell flat.
Ellen - You look fabulous. You did do a lot with the song. I forgot for a few moments that it was a rock song. There were some pitch problems. It almost worked but not quite.
Kara -  My favorite performance of yours ever. It may have not have been technically perfect but you did something different with the song and I believed it.
Simon -  I am kind of with Kara. I thought the first half was stronger then the second hat. You got 80% of it right.

Lily Scott singing "A Change Is Gonna Come"  She was great!!  One of the best tonight.  She's very comfortable on stage and knows who she is.
Judges:  Randy:  You are the most unique contestant. You do your thing. You worked it out. My favorite performance tonight. 
Ellen:   You have got “it”. I forgot we were in a singing competition. The best performance of the night by far.
Kara:   You just had your first moment in this competition. Thank god you tried out. Good job girl. 
Simon:   I thought it was good. I wasn’t crazy about it like the others.

Katelyn Epperly singing "The Scientist:  She played the piano and did a very good job.  I just prefer the more upbeat songs - this one was really slow!
Judges:  Randy - I really liked it. It was way slow but I still liked it. It was nice to hear you play the piano.
Ellen -  I like that you were playing piano. I feel kind of asleep. It was so slow. Way to slow. People can’t vote if they are asleep.
Kara -  I kind of love you. You have an incredible instrument but you are switching around. You are all over the place but you are really good. Figure out who you are real quick.
Simon -  I thought it was a smart choice of song. It made you contemporary. It was a million times better than last week.

Paige Miles singing "Walk Away"  Wow - she does have a great voice!
Judges:  Randy - I liked it. I wasn’t in love. You have this big voice. Not the best choice. I wanna hear you hit the big notes. 
Ellen:   I loved it. I thought it was fantastic. I like everything you did with it. You changed just enough to make it yours. You had fun.
Kara -  I could see you having a hit with that song. I missed the connecting with the angry song. You did have some moments.
Simon -  I agree with Randy. 2 weeks in a row you have failed to pick a good song. You are making bad decisions.

Siobhan Magnus singing Aretha's "Think"   WOW!!  I agree with Simon - she is a strange chick!!  But she can belt out the songs She's so quirky and fun - think we'll see a lot more of her.  BEST of the night!!
Judges:  Randy:  You are so bold and it was dope. You slayed it. I loved it.
Ellen -  I loved it. That was good.
Kara -  I can’t get over that note. I don’t know how you do that.
Simon -  You are such a strange person. I thought there were parts that were terrible but that note was incredible. You are talented.

My favorites:  Crystal, Siobhan, Lily

In trouble:  Haeley, Didi and  Michelle

What do you think?

American Idol Boys 3/2

The boys ended up performing tonight since one of the girls, Crystal Bowersox, was in the hospital.  Hope she will be ok - she is one of my favorites.

*Michael Lynche singing It's A Man's World (James Brown)
Judges:  Randy gave him a standing ovation.  Ellen likes all his song choices and feels like he is the one to beat tonight.  Kara said he went from being a singer to a performer.  Simon said it was like coming from a pussycat to a lion in a week.  Best for Mike!!

John Park singing Gravity by John Mayer.  
Judges:  Randy -That was your vibe but you didn’t bring anything new to it. It was flat and there was some pitch problems. Ellen - It was the right song choice. You got into it more than in rehearsal. Feel the song a tiny bit more. Kara - Way better than last week. I lack the connection with you. I don’t always believe it. You need to let loose. You are a little bit safe. Simon - I think Purple Haze may get their lead singer back this week. I struggle with the believability. In 20 minutes time we will forget that performance.

Casey James singing I Don't Want To Be by Gavin McGraw. 
Judges:  Randy:  I love you channeling like Hendrix. I don’t know if you did the best vocal but this is the type of record I would make with you.  Ellen:  You can’t go wrong with the song. I love your look and I love you sound. You need to move more on the stage. I want you to perform more.  Kara:  The cougar is a fan but tonight you took 2 steps backwards. The notes were off on the bottom and you didn’t take the song to another level. Still a fan though. Simon:  I am kind of with Kara. This week you turned into someone you would see in any bar in America. You don’t have the grit in your voice to make that work.

*Alex Lambert singing  Everybody Knows  by John Legend (very nervous) 
Judges:  Randy:  Such an improvement over last week. You found your own niche a little bit.
Ellen:  Someone took the unripe banana and put it in a paper bag. So much better than last week. You have such a great voice under that mullet! You have a unique style.  Kara:  You have an incredible recording tone. You will learn how to use it. Great improvement.  Simon:  That was a million times better than last week. You should only be nervous if you are useless and you are not.  Needs to have a killer instinct now and choose good songs.

Todrick Hall singing What's Love Got To Do With It by Tina Turner
Judges:  Randy:  The falsetto run at the end was hot. I didn’t love this. Just sing a nice song and just sing it.
Ellen:   Sing and move. Use your strength, you're a dancer. I don’t think it was the right song. That song didn’t help you get any votes.  Kara:  We all like you. When you started moving, it got better. I don’t get it, what happened to Todrick with the unique spin.  Simon:  Todrick, move but don’t sing. This is not working out at all for you.  (Simon was a little too rude!)

*Jermaine Sellers singing What's Going On by Marvin Gaye
Judges:  Randy:  Better than last week. It was so close but so far at the same time. It just wasn’t a great performance. Another tough song to sing. You needed to pull it back more.  Ellen:  I love your style but it just didn’t work for me. You pushed too hard again.  Kara:  You are hitting some crazy notes but you are doing too much. Pull back and look for the meaning of the song. It feels forced and you're trying to show us every trick.   Simon:   We’re frustrated. You water down the songs. No one can take you seriously as an artist.  It was kind of a caberet performance.
He asked them what song he should do next week.  Simon told him he might not be there next week.

Andrew Garcia singing You Give Me Something by James Morrison
Judges:  Randy:  Honestly, that wasn’t the vibe for you. It was pitchy all over the place. I didn’t get it.
Ellen:  I thought there were a couple of little pitch problems but I liked it. I am still a huge fan and I thought you were really good. You've got to top that Paul song that you did.   Kara:  Since your Paula song, it has been straight down. You have to surprise us. You played it too safe. We need another big surprise. 
Simon:  You are lacking something. Not choosing the right song again is a problem. It was just ok and you are better than ok.

*Aaron Kelly singing "My Girl" by The Temptations
 Judges:  Randy:  I didn’t know if I was going to like this. Dude, you can really sing. That was 200%  better than last week.   Ellen:   A whole lot more confidence. You sing well but the song is a bit forgettable. You do have a great voice.  Kara:  I really liked it and I like you. You are consistent. You have control. You are doing better and better.  Simon:  I didn’t like the song. It was all over the place. You went backwards. You have to work out what kind of artist you want to be. The arrangement was too old fashioned.

*Tim Urban singing Come On Get Higher by Matt Nathanson
Judges:  Randy:  I didn’t get it.  It was very karaoke for me. Some pitch problems, nothing jumped out.
Ellen:  You should act. You should be on Glee. Girls would love you. If you act, you have it made.
Kara:  I liked the song choice but you didn’t make it your own. You look the part, you play the part but it’s not all there yet.  Simon:   I think that was a much improvement from last week. You picked a young song. You were more relevant than the other singers. I am impressed with your performance, your attitude and work ethic.

*Lee DeWyze singing Lips of An Angel
Judges:  Randy:  Bold Move. I liked it. I am a huge fan of yours. A couple of pitch problems but I liked it.   Ellen:  A couple of little pitch problems but it didn’t matter cause it came out as a great performance. It was great. Kara:  I thought it was a big improvement from last week. Some pitch problems still this week but I could hear you on the radio. Your look is commercial.  Simon:   Raise your shoulders. Vocally you are head and shoulders above everyone else. When you lose your nerves, get your body language down and choose the right song ... You may be the one to beat.

*I like these.  My favorites are Big Mike and Lee DeWyze.

In trouble:  Toddrick and John Park - possibly Jermaine

Idol Results and a Hard Monday Mailer!

After a little chit-chat between the judges and Ryan Seacreast, the top 24 performed to American Boy.  Sorry - they looked like they were lip-synching to me!! 

Here we go -

• Janell Wheeler is gone. 
• Ashley Rodriguez is gone

Wow - I picked both these gals to be in trouble.  

Now to the guys - just about any of them can go!!

• Joe Munoz - that's wrong!!   The judges thought he was one of the best last night.  Can't believe he got cut and not Tim Urban!!
• Tyler Grady - I had picked him so I guess 3 out of 4 ain't bad!

We got to hear from that cutie, Kris Allen, last year's winner.  He has been in Haiti and sang "Let It Be."  You can download his song from ITunes and 100% of the proceeds will go to Haiti.

I received a darling Monday Mailer this week too.  It's a slider card.  I've seen these cards before but never attempted one.  Betsy, who sent me the card, said it was HARD!!  Well, I'll have to give it a try .... one day.  (Margaret - we'll try it the next time you visit!!)

Here's the card closed:

And here is the card opened up (I won't tell you how long it took me to figure out how to open it!)

American Idol Boys Top 12 ... boring!

Well, tonight's show was sure disappointing!  The guys are not as strong as they have been in recent years.  I think a girl will win the final prize this year.  Here's tonight's run down:

1. Toddrick Hall, 24, Arlington, Texas singing “Since You’ve Been Gone” (Kelly Clarkston) It was not great to me.
Judges: Ellen – great performer; chorus rough; singing wasn’t greatest but performance was. Randy – didn’t even know what song it was, shouldn’t completely change song.  Kara – agrees w/Randy but you took a risk & you are a performer. Simon – came over as a “dancer who can sing” instead of a singer who could dance; murdered original song; verged on stupid.

2. Aaron Kelly,16, from Sonestown, PA singing "Here Comes Good Bye " (Rascal Flatts).  He seems older than 16! I like him but I also love Rascal Flatts and don't know if that influenced me. 
Judges : Simon – quite good performance! Not confident enough, needs to take control of the song & get self confidence. Kara – favorite kind of contestant – he has no idea how good he is. Randy – huge voice – need to believe in yourself. Ellen – ditto – will do very well. Love your humble-ness.

3. Jermaine Sellers, 27 , from Joliet singing “Get Here”  He sounded squeaky and off key.
Judges: Ellen – huge fan, felt like was just doing a performance instead of feeling the song; trying too hard. Randy – weird choice of song.  Kara – trying to show everything he could do but not meaningful, too old of a song for him. Simon said it is the kind of song that an old fogey would request to be played at a lounge bar. Simon felt that he was screaming in the middle of the song and that Jermaine totally blew his opportunity.

4. Tim Urban, 20, Duncanville, TX singing “Apologize” (Urban Republic). He got cut originally & when the other guy broke the rules, he got called back. He didn’t even tell his family – wanted to surprise them by seeing him on tv! Typical son!!  I thought he was bad!  And it seems the judges agree with me although I really felt sorry for him while the judges piled on the insults!
Judges: Simon congratulated him on making it back but that the first cut was completely correct as he didn't think his voice was good enough. Kara said that the music overpowered him. Randy said it was completely the wrong song for him as he lacks the falsetto to do the song correctly. Ellen agreed that Tim indeed didn't manage to hit the high notes.  Everyone thinks he’s adorable though!

5. Joe Munoz singing "You and I Both"  He has a good voice.
Judges: Ellen said he looked very comfortable on the stage and that he sounded really really good. Randy said it was not the perfect song choice but that he thought Joe did a good job. Kara liked the fact that he sang a song she wouldn't have expected and said he was the best performance this far. Simon said he kinda agreed but that it was an okay, safe forgettable performance. But that he didn't really show star quality.

6. Tyler Grady, 21, a college student singing “American Woman” didn’t do anything for me. J
Judges: Simon said the good news was that people would remember that song. The bad news was that it would be for the wrong reasons. Kara agreed that with Simon that he needs to mix it a bit up because otherwise he will become predictable.  Randy said that it was definately style over substance but that Tyler needs to update the songs fron the 70's to be more current. Ellen says he has the same poses as the big stars from the 70's but lacks the emotions and charisma that they had.

7. Lee Dewyze, 24, Chicago singing “Chasing Cars” (Snow Patrol)  I like him.
Judges: Ellen said it was a really good song choice except when he started screaming at a point in the song. Randy disagreed with Ellen because he didn't like the song choice. Kara mentions that the song has little range but that he changed it so he could show a bit of his range. Simon disagreed with Randy and Kara as he thought it was the best performance of the night.

8. John Park, 21, Northbrook, Ill, a college student singing “God Bless the Child” Not a favorite of mine.
Judges: Simon said you have to have an incredible voice to take on that song and that he failed at it because there was no emotion in the song and that he felt flat. Kara completely agreed with Simon and said that there was no connection with the song. Randy said he loved the vocal runs but that the song made him look old. Ellen said that the song wouldn't convince the girls to pick up the phone but that she really liked the performance.

9. Michael Lynche, 24, Florida singing “This Love” (Maroon 5) Big Mike is the person most people remember without problem. He was the contestant that became a father during Hollywood week and couldn't be at the delivery because of it. He was the second person playing an instrument today. He was on key the whole song and made it sound interesting. Somehow he stayed close to the original but still made it sound like his own.
Judges:  Ellen said that Mike had a great personality but that there were a few pitch problems. Randy agreed wtih Ellen. Kara said it was a bit depressing until Michael showed up. Simon said he was more a support act before the main act. Nothing unique.

10. Alex Lambert, 19, from N Richland Hills, TX. He sang “A Wonderful World” (James Morrison) NO The whole performance felt somehow restrained.
Judges:  Simon said it was the most uncomfortable performance of the night but that he needs to get his nerves under control. Kara said he sounded a lot like James Morrison. She said it was all there but it wasn't together. Randy said he has a great tone to his voice. Ellen's comment was that she likes that he sticks to keeping his mullet and aren't going to let it go!

11. Casey James, singing “Heaven”  (to Kara I believe!)   He is clearly Kara's favorite and took his shirt off for her during an earlier performance!  He is definitely CUTE and can sing.
Judges: Of course the rest of the judges decided that Kara  needed to be the first judge to comment on Casey's performance. She comments that she almost didn't recognize him with his shirt on and then tells everyone that it's wrong because she's married. She immediately calls out for her husband that she loves him. Randy adds "For the moment" as a response to the fact that she is married. Ellen said she could feel Kara undress Casey with her eyes. But she said he sounded really good and was going to get votes like crazy!   Randy said it was a great song choice and that he liked the voice. Kara adds on a serious note that he is eye candy but that he definately is ear candy too. Simon says that he realizes that both of them are cursed with good looks. He said that Casey chose the perfect song and that it was the best performance that Simon heard from him the whole season.

12. Andrew Garcia, 24, California who is a stay at home Dad, singing “Sugar, We’re Going Down” by Fall Out Boy.  Someone get him some different glasses!
Judges: Simon: "I was looking forward to hearing you more than anyone else tonight but I was disappointed with that. I don't think you took a risk and became very muso and intense." Too serious. Forgettable. Great recording voice. Kara: "That was a strange rendition of that song. I really like you and hope we see you again for many weeks cause you're great." Randy: "Go back to being you from Hollywood week." Ellen:  "I think your version of Paula's “Straight Up” will carry you for a while."

My favorites:
Aaron Kelly
Lee Dwayze
Casey James
Andrew Garcia

In trouble:
Tim Urban
Tyler Grady
Alex Lambert

American Idol Girls perform

How do you like my new Blog Title?  I made it myself from My Digital Studio!! 

OK - tonight was the Top 24 Girls on American Idol.  Are you ready for some critique-ing???  (I know I probably butchered that word!)

1. Paige Miles – 24 from Naples, Florida sang It’s All Right Now -  To me, she seems comfortable performing on stage and has good vocals.   She got a vote from me.

Judges: Simon thinks she has best voice of all girls but didn’t like song choice (wedding song); Kara disagrees – loved song choice – she "slayed" the song – just didn’t think she did enough with chorus; Randy & Ellen agreed & disagreed with both.  Ryan, I didn't need to hear that she's sown into her dress and has been waiting to pee.

2. Ashley Rodriguez - 22 from Boston sang Happy from Leona Lewis.  She has a  good voice but was breathy on the microphone.  I think she'll get criticism from doing a Leona Lewis song since she's a "find" of Simon's.
Judges:  Kara – big song, not great but thinks she will move on; Randy – not good song choice; Ellen – take a risk next time & don’t do safe; Simon – didn’t like arrangement; feels like she is going backwards; no originality; could be in trouble tonight.  I agree with Simon!

3. Janell Wheeler – 24 from Florida sang What About Love (Heart).   I don’t think her voice is as good as the other two.
Judges:  Randy – not favorite song choice, but he likes her voice; Ellen loved song choice, a few notes were off but she moved comfortable on stage; Simon – she gave 100% effort but only delivered 65% ; there were moments when he liked her voice, but song choice needs to be more original; he thinks she will survive this week; Kara – song too big.

4. Lilly Scott – 20 from Denver; has been living out of her car, sang The Beatles,Fixing A Hole;.  She made the song her own and I like her although I don’t like her white / platinum / gray hair!!  Her jazzy voice was great with the song.
Judges:   Ellen – "that’s what we are talking about!" She made the song her own , has a unique voice – loved it / Simon – best so far, felt she sang the song because it portrayed her as artist not because it would get her to the next round / Kara – very believable; could feel that she is comfortable / Randy - she's like an "indie" artist -  not worried about what others think; she was great.

5. Katelyn Epperly, 19 from Iowa, a college student sang Oh Darlin’ from 1969.  She had some 80's hair going on!  She was ok.
Judges:  Simon: "Even though it was very messy, I actually really like you." Kara: "You know exactly what you're doing when you're up there." Then Kara gives her a hard time for being overly made up. I agree. Randy: "I think you can go places." Ellen: "You have an amzing voice." OK, so the judges liked her more than I did.

6. Haley Vaughn, 15 from Ft Collins, Colo., a high school student,  She got her nose pierced when she made it to Hollywood.  She sang another Beatles song – I Want to Hold Your Hand.  I think she'll be back in high school next week!
Judges: Kara: "Every time you take that stage you have fun, but you need to work on technical abilities." Randy: "I love the unpredicitability." Ellen: "I enjoyed it. You just shine up there." Simon: "I thought it was verging on terrible. It was a mess."

7. Lacey Brown, 24 from Amarillo was cut last year before top 24.  She sang Fleetwood Mac, Landslide.  The slower songs are just tougher to win the audience but I thought she did ok.
Judges:  Randy: "I thought it was terrible ... pitchy." Ellen: "I just didn't think it worked out." Simon: "It was just boring, sorry." Kara: "I do hope that America gives you one more shot."
 
8. Michelle Delamor, 22 from Florida sang Alicia Keyes, I Keep on Falling;
Judges:  Ellen thought it was fantastic but was safe – seemed easy for her, knows she can do better; Simon – did very well, very professional since that is what she does for a living but not one wow moment but she looks fantastic; Kara – very commercial looking; moments that weren’t great; going for divia spot – lacks believability; Randy – tough song but did pretty good job but she has more – need to take risks and show them something no one else has

9. Didi Benami, 23 from Knoxville sang The Way I Am, another slow song.  I like her - got my vote.
Judges:  Simon – good singer but too many are trying to sound like the original singer; thought song was dreary; missing a spark; likes her & has good voice; Kara – thought song was good & made some creative changes, a little pitchy; Randy - no star factor, loved song & she sounded great; Ellen – great voice, great look, low key

10. Siobhan Magness, 19 from Cape Cod is a glass blowing apprentice!  She sang Wicked Game by Chris Issac.  She's an interesting girl!  You don't expect that voice to come out of her.
Judges:  Kara – wouldn’t have picked the song, but like it; quirky girl, a little nasel-y; in the moment when she is singing which sets her apart tonight; Randy – tough song, great voice; reach for a bigger song; Ellen – loved it, really liked it a lot; Simon – "you really are a funny little thing" – never know what she is going to do – like it but liked the Stevie Wonder song she did during Hollywood week better.  Simon asked her why she picked the song and she answered him in her monotone voice .  Simon answered in a monotone., "now I understand."

11. Crystal Bowersox, 24 from Ohio.  She has dreadlocks; is a mom (not sure if she's a single mom or not but I bet so).  Idol is not a show for her but she is doing it to give her son a better life.  She's singing "Hand in My Pocket" by Allanis Morrisette. This song is tailor-made for her skills. I like her vibe - and she plays the harmonica too! I think she could find a big audience out there!  Probably my favorite!!
Judges:  Randy: "I love your originality as an artist. I like what you do. I'm a fan." Ellen: "I think we are lucky you decided to audition for Idol." Simon: "The truth is there are thousands of you doing that outside subway stations. You've got to do something and make it your version. I think you're refreshing." Kara: "You have that ability to take us on a journey with you, but I didn't see that so much tonight."

12. Katie Stevens, 17 from Connecticutt is a high school student and is very close to her grandmother who has Alzheimers.  She sang Feelin Good by Michael Duble.
Judges:  Ellen: "It was good, but you're 17 and it was very intense. I want to see you be 17." Simon: "It was like your mum and dad had given you the song. And it was very pageanty." Kara: "You were kind of all over the place, and that's not like you." Randy: "I think you're a great talent. It was just too old for you. Be 17."  I agree with the judges.

One of the things I noticed tonight is that I'm really, really going to miss Simon Cowell when he's off this show. His comments tonight were really so much more precise and useful than any of the other judges. Ellen is obviously still trying to figure out what she can bring to the show -- it wasn't very clear tonight.  I like her on the show.  I have to admit, I was very doubtful but she does bring humor to the group.  I just didn't think she added a whole lot tonight.

Who were your favorites tonight?

Top 3:
- Crystal Bowersox
- Didi Benami
- Paige Miles

but I also voted for:
- Lilly Scott
- Katelyn Epperly
- Lacey Brown

Should be worried Thursday night:
- Janell Wheeler
- Ashley Rodriguez
-  Haley Vaughn

Well, calling for more snow tonight and tomorrow here!  Will this winter ever go away??

More news on the Idol Scandal

If you're interested in American Idol and its scandals, here is an interesting read -

http://new.music.yahoo.com/blogs/realityrocks/316970/idol-scandal-chris-golightly-does-not-go-quietly/

American Idol Top 24!

Well, American Idol is starting to get down to the "nitty, gritty."  After dragging Hollywood week out .... can anyone say "boring" .... they have their top 24.  But not without a little drama and intrigue (don't we expect that each year anyway????)  One of the guys, Chris Golightly, was shown in some clips during  the 24 reveal on American Idol and was shown on stage on Wednesday night, but he was not included in the Top 24 in the end. Instead Tim Urban was in the Top 24. Tim Urban’s entry into the Top 24 was not aired, except in the end when his name and face was shown.  The bloggers are claiming that Chris was formerly under a music contract and believed the contract expired 30 days before he auditioned for Idol in July 2009. Unconfirmed blog chatter says when an alleged scuffle developed as to whether Chris’ contract did or didn’t expire in June 2009 with one person allegedly claiming Chris was still under contract, Chris allegedly failed to provide proof he was in fact released from contract in June of 2009.  Wonder if we'll hear anything about it from the judges?  Doubt it.

The male finalists are:  Andrew Garcia, 24, Moreno Valley, Calif.; Tyler Grady, 20, Nazareth, Pa.; Alex Lambert, 19, North Richland Hills, Texas; Joe Munoz, 20, Huntington Park, Calif.; John Park, 21, Evanston, Ill.; and Jermaine Sellers, 27, Joliet, Ill; Lee Dewyze, 23, Mount Prospect, Ill.;  Aaron Kelly, 16, Sonestown, Pa.; Casey James, 27, Fort Worth, Texas; Todrick Hall, 24, Arlington, Texas and Michael "Big Mike" Lynche, 26, Astoria, N.Y.and Tim Urban, 20, from Duncanville, Tx.

The female finalists are:  Crystal Bowersox, 24, Toledo, Ohio; Lacey Brown, 24, Amarillo, Texas; Michelle Delamor, 22, Miami; Siobhan Magnus, 20, Marstons Mills, Mass.; Paige Miles, 24, Houston, Texas; Ashley Rodriguez, 22, Chelsea, Mass.; Lilly Scott, 20, Denver; Katie Stevens, 17, Middlebury, Conn.; and Haeley Vaughn, 16, Fort Collins, Colo' Didi Benami, 23, Los Angeles; Katelyn Epperly, 19, West Des Moines, Iowa; Janell Wheeler, 24, Tampa, Florida.

The top 12 women will perform live next Tuesday with the top 12 men taking the stage live Wednesday. Viewer votes will determine which two women and two men will be eliminated.  Stay tuned!

American Idol Final Results

Well, we were walking around the Riverwalk here in San Antonio after viewing houses all day so I missed the first half of Idol. But, I figured I didn't really miss much!

The second half that I am watching has a LOT of big name groups performing - Queen, Kiss, Steve Martin (who knew he was a singer???), Santana, Rod Stewart plus all the Idol performers from this year and previous years. I heard that I missed Queen Latifa during the first half. Wow! Idol has come a long way over the years to have all the $$ to get all these big names. And we even got to see a little bit of Tatiana tonight!

My understanding is there were over 100 million votes last night!! A world record! I can tell you about 5 of those votes were mine!!

YIPPEE!!! KRIS ALLEN IS THE NEW AMERICAN IDOL!!! I am in shock. He had come the farthest of any of the others. He was definitely the dark horse in this competition. What happened I believe is he got Danny Gokey's votes and knocked Adam out.

American Idol Final Night!

Had to watch the show tonight live - commercials and all. W.e're in San Antonio helping Ashley house-hunt. More details on that later

This is it. Why do I feel oddly let down already? I don’t necessarily think Adam has it in the bag like the judges seem to think. I think Kris will get a lot of Danny’s votes. It could be close. And they’re both so good; it should be a phenomenal show tonight. I think I’m bummed that Danny is gone.

So Adam was a hyperactive child. Is anyone surprised by that? Okay then. Adam is performing Mad World from the Birth Year show. I like this subdued but passionate performance. Kris is singing Ain’t No Sunshine from his comfortable perch behind the piano. I like the bluesy spin he’s putting on this classic. So, good song choice, Kris! And isn’t his wife the cutest, nodding her encouragement from the front row?

Simon gives Round One to Kris, after eating some crow. I agree, Simon!

For Round Two, they’re singing songs chosen by the show’s creator, Simon Fuller.
Adam has changed from the Dracula robe to a classic gray suit, and he’s singing an R&B classic by the great Sam Cooke.

Kris is in his element with this one but it's just OK. Randy said it was “a little light” and I have to agree, but I have to point out, Kris didn’t choose it. I still love ya, Kris!

At any rate, the judges give Round Two to Adam. So, what else is new?

Round Three. Let’s roll.
In Idol tradition, both are singing the same song — No Boundaries, written by Kara DioGuardi and two other people I haven’t ever heard of.
Adam’s up first, of course. Um, what’s with the pants?

These finale songs are always so cheesie I can hardly stand it. Adam is doing his best to give it a rock edge but the melodrama is a bit much for me on this one. The judges look dubious about this performance. “Not one of my favorite Adam performances,” says Randy. Um, yeah. Pretty much.

Simon starts to bash the song and thinks better of it. Awww, come on. I feel like I missed out. Of course he still thinks Adam is the most amazing contestant to ever grace the Idol stage and doesn’t even try to hide his bias.

Kris gets his turn, and I have to say I prefer this performance to Adam’s. It’s more my style, and I think he makes it more modern and less cheesie. I’m giving Round Three to Kris.
They’re both phenomenal, and I look forward to hearing from them A LOT. Who are you rooting for? Will you vote? I voted .... for Kris, of course!

Word of warning: Ryan says tomorrow’s show will go long, so don’t depend on your DVR to catch the end. I’ll be watching live from my hotel room. Over and out!

88 Million votes for American Idol Final 3

Katy Perry performs on American Idol but first Danny Gokey says what we've all been thinking -- "there's been enough commercials, enough suspense -- I just want to get it over."
Then Katy comes out in some Vegas showgirl version of Elvis' getups, singing "Waking Up in Vegas." She looks totally ridiculous, like she's a cartoon character or something; also her outfit doesn't fit her that well.

Well, our final two are Kris and Adam. I can truthfully say I'm surprised! I really thought it would be Adam and Danny but was hoping it would be Danny and Kris. Danny was NEVER in the bottom 3 and should not be going home!! I hate to see Danny go. I was an early fan of his, although I admit my loyalty became divided between him, and Kris as the season progressed. For the first time ever, I didn’t have a strong preference between those two going into the semi-finals. But, I know this won't be the last we hear from him.

I'm sure Kris is totally living the dream, he was the dark horse coming in, and his fans really came through for him. And if what Ryan said is right, that less than a million votes separated Kris and Adam -- is "American Idol" setting the stage for an unbelievable upset next week?!

Now .... who will be the winner???? I'm afraid it will be Adam but I can hope for Kris, can't I?

American Idol .... Top Three

Tonight the top 3 guys - Adam, Danny and Kris - will sing 2 songs each. One of the songs will be chosen by the judges and the other song will be chosen by the guys.

First up is Danny singing a song chosen by Paula.

Danny - Dance Little Sister by Terrence somebody - I've never heard of this song or the artist who originally did it, but the judges thought he was great (except for Kara who didn't like his dancing.) "Dope" according to Randy! Simon disagreed with the song choice.

Kris - Apologize by One Republic - chosen by Kara and Randy. I love this song and am loving Kris' take on it. The judges weren't so blown away with his performance. Simon is right - he said that Kara & Randy shouldn't be criticizing Kris' arrangement of the song when they picked the song for him. Kara said he should have not been behind the piano, but done it acoustically .... well, they should have told him that! I agree with Simon for a change.

Adam - One by U2 chosen by Simon. Simon had to get permission from Bono for Adam to sing this song tonight. Pretty theatrical as usual. Standing ovation from the crowd. Kara told him he was a strategist and he was unbelievable and did his own version. The judges .... except for Randy .... are all over themselves drooling over Adam. He is very talented .... he's just not my choice.

Round Two --- the contestant's choices:

Danny - You Are So Beautiful (Joe Cocker) Great! As Randy says, he can really, really, really sing. Kara and Paula loved it. Simon called it a "vocal master class."

Kris - Heartless by Kanye West Well, the judges just loved it. Even Simon! He told Kris after the first performance he had written him off of the competition. But after this performance, he is back in the running. I am really surprised. I liked it but figured the judges wouldn't like this one.

Adam - Crying by Aerosmith To me, he's screaming and I don't like it. I don't think he's near as good as the other two on this round. Randy told him he was one of the best they've ever had in the competition. The judges have basically called him the winner. Good for Simon .... he says he's not going to suck up like the other judges. But, he made the point that America needs to not assume Adam will be in the final 2 but to vote for him because he deserves to be there.


This is going to be a tough one tonight. Simon was on Oprah this week and picked Adam to win. He might be right but sometimes that's the kiss of death for the contestants. I think Simon picked David Archeleta last year to win and he didn't. We'll see. I know Adam is talented, but something about him bugs me. I would much rather see Kris or Danny.

I think Kris won Round One and Danny won Round Two.

I'm afraid America will listen to the judges too much and Kris will be the one leaving though. Hope not!!

Idol Results .... Down to the final Three

Paula entertained (?) us tonight. Why did they bother hooking her up with a microphone? There is no doubt in any one's mind that she was lip-syncing. With all the acrobatics, there's no way she could have sang.

Then we had the pleasure (???) of hearing No Doubt. Well, there is no doubt they weren't my favorite! Did you see the drummer with the crinoline on? Sonny wants to know who dressed those people. Maybe I'm showing my age.

Wow! Big surprise for me tonight. Kris is SAFE! I am so happy! I really thought he would be the one going home. So will this be an upset like when Daughtry was sent home a few years ago? I hope it's not Danny. The competition is so tough this year!

Chris Daughtry performs the single from his next album which comes out in July. Now, this rock music, I like. He is singing .... not screaming!! And did you notice, his band looks pretty normal - except for the mohawk .... but no crinolines on the guys! He might not have made it to the top three when he was on Idol, but that hasn't stopped his success. Sometimes, losing is a good thing.

The second person in the top three is Adam. Guess I'm not surprised but I was hoping for an upset there.

Now it's down to Allison and Danny .... Danny has NEVER been in the bottom three so my guess is…it is Allison going home. I’m sad but not surprised. With one more rendition of Cry Baby we bid adieu to Allison.

Idol .... Top FOUR!

Tonight is Rock. The mentor is ..... Slash .... the drummer for Guns & Roses, my favorite group! (just kidding) Actually when my daughter was in high school, I told a boy she was dating that Guns & Roses was my favorite group ... I had actually mistaken the group for another one (obviously) and this has been a joke between us forever! She called me tonight to tell me my favorite band member was going to be on Idol.

• Adam is first singing Led Zepplain's Whole Lotta Love. I don't know if he could have gotten any more black eye liner on. He's actually scary looking. I've always thought he reminded me of Elvis, but I know Elvis would not be looking like this! I thought he was screaming but that's hard rock for you. I know the judges will love him. Yes, Randy says everyone will forget about his theatrics with this performance. Kara says he's a rock god. Of course, Paula says's he's a whole lot of perfect. Simon loves it too and says it's one of his favorite performances.
• Allison is singing Cry Baby by Janis Joplin. I can totally see her doing Joplin! She sure has the pipes and I'm loving her performance!! The judges don't look so happy though. Randy didn't like her choice of songs. Kara thinks bluesy rock and Joplin is right for her but didn't like the song choice. Simon thought it was a terrific vocal but lacked originality. She showed a little sass to them tonight. Good for her!!
• Kris Allen is singing The Beatles Come Together!! This is my favorite group - for real!! Well, he's got my vote before he even sings and I know the same is true with Ashley. He didn't try to do that hard rock stuff because that is just not him. Randy agrees with me. Boo Kara - she didn't think it was great. What does she know? I was waiting for this .... Paula says it is risky to do a Beatles song; he needs a little more energy on stage. Simon didn't like it. He said it was like eating ice for lunch???? The judges weren’t impressed at all. I think he was better than they’re giving him credit for
• Danny Gokey sing the classic rock anthem, Dream On by Aerosmith. You'll have to hum a few bars because I don't think I know this song. OK, now he's singing it and I have heard it. Paula is on her feet so I guess she likes it. He made the scream at the end which Slash was worried about. The crowd loved it. Randy said it was just ok. He realizes that this is not Danny's genre as well as not Kris'. Kara commended him for taking a chance but it was not great. Paula gives him an A for effort. Simon didn't like the scream and thought it was too over the top.

A new twist to the show, tonight we are getting treated to two duets by the contestants. First Kris and Danny sing Renegade by Styx — very cool. Ooooh, I like rock-and-roll Danny. This is fun! They SO need to record that. Their voices really harmonized and worked well together. Adam and Allison rocked a duet together of Slow Ride. It seems like their solo parts are better than the harmony parts. The judges loved it and think they should do a duet together.

Unfortunately, rock is NOT the genre for two of the contestants (Danny & Kris) but it is for the other two. This really sucks that it is down to the final 4 and it has to be rock and not something like their favorite songs or something they could all shine in their song selection.

Well, my personal picks for the final three are Danny, Allison and Kris. But, I don't think that's likely to happen. It's hard for me to predict who's going home tonight. I'm afraid it'll be Kris but he definately wouldn't be my choice. We'll have to wait till tomorrow night to see!

American Idol Results Show

And here we are again. Well, whaddya know? Simon’s backtracking. Now he says that everyone was good last night.

OMG. That food fight. What a mess! All I could think of was, who is going to have to clean up that mess? Well, the bill for $6,000 maid service was given to Danny!! Ha Ha!! Guess he'll have to win now to pay for it.

First up to be critiqued - Matt .... to the right of the stage

Danny ... to the left of the stage

Allison ..... next to Danny

Kris ..... next to Matt

Adam .... next to Kris

Bottom three ..... Adam, Kris, Matt .... WRONG!! This is the first time Adam and Kris have been in the bottom. Well now. This is certainly interesting, but in light of the Chris Daughtry upset of 2006, not at all surprising. And it ain’t over yet, now is it?

I know someone has to go home, but this is the hardest year ever to pick just one winner. They are just all so good.

Natalie Cole performs while we're waiting for the results.

Next is Taylor Hicks ... my choice a few years ago. Unfortunately, he hasn't done much in the recording industry. My son and daughter-in-law recently saw him in Grease live in .... Tucson!! I'm not so into this song he's doing tonight. Maybe the album is good though.

Kris is safe! Whooo Hoooo! That was what I was hoping for.

That leaves Matt and Adam. I'll be ok with either one but I believe it will be Matt going home.

Did American get it right this time?

Now, Jamie Fox performs. I really like him .... maybe not this song exactly even it it's the Number One song in America. He's sorta singing like my boy from a couple of years ago, Blake!! He has it right though when he says these final five are true artists.

Ok ... the moment of truth. American got it right - Matt is going home.

Top 5 ... American Idol

Tonight is Rat Pack songs ... big band standards. Most of the singers from that era are dead but Jamie Fox can relate to the songs and he is the guest tonight. Cool! I loved him in the movie, Ray. Should be a good mentor.

OK .... what about Paula's dress????

First up is .....

• Kris Allen - he gets the unlucky number one. The Way You Look Tonight - can he croon it? Jamie Fox thinks so. He said if Idol doesn't work out for Kris, he & Kris can get together and make it happen! I love this song. If was a favorite of mine when sung by the Letterman in the "old days" and it is still great. Kris makes it new and gives it his own touch. Randy thinks it is his best!! Kara thinks he set the standard high for the evening and he is truly a dark horse in the competition. Of course, Paula loves it and calls him a "contemporary crooner." Simon is not as enthusiastic and thinks it is a little "wet". What the hell does that mean???? Not dry is what he says! Simon is WRONG this time and is all wet! Is Simon trying to discredit a contestant that he doesn’t want to see win, even if he doesn’t really think the performance is that bad. Is American Idol rigged? Hmmm…
• Allison - the only chick left in the competition. She celebrated her 17th birthday yesterday. She looks cute tonight. Someone to Watch Over Me is her choice. Jamie thinks she is too young to have the incredible voice that she has. I agree .... she has a great voice and should go far in the music world. Just don't know that she will go much further in this competition against the guys. Randy says she looks "dope"!! Go figure - where do they get this language? Guess I'm just not hip! Kara thought it was a gut wrenching rendition. Paula has been waiting so long for Allison to do a ballad and is really proud of her. Simon asks her if she thinks she can win and of course, she says yes. He doesn't feel like she has confidence in herself and thinks she could be in trouble. Simon, you are a jerk. Kara, you tell him! Simon really seems like he’s trying to throw the competition. Unlike past years, at this stage, I think it’s anybody’s game. Let America decide!!
• Matt - My Funny Valentine - Someone needs to sing an upbeat song. It was just too much like the last two, and I’m ready for something modern and rockin’. Randy thought it was "pitchy"; Kara wasn't thrilled with it either. Of course, Paula likes everyone and never criticizes so I have to throw her comments out. Ironically Simon is full of praise for Matt after informing him when he used the Judges’ Save a couple weeks ago that he had no chance of winning. I really don’t get Simon tonight AT ALL.
• Danny Gokey — Come Rain Or Come Shine: A really jazzy number! I love it which is no surprise since he is my favorite. How many pairs of glasses does he have?? He keeps upping the intensity. This is definitely a different sound for him, and it suits him. Randy was worried about everyone singing ballads but he thinks Danny is the only one he has heard that could do an album of ballads and he could WIN! Kara has been missing the "rat pack swagger" all season! Paula's one-liner .... stellar! Even Simon is coming to his senses. Simon even thanked Jamie Fox for bringing out the incredible-ness in Danny. This performance by Danny overshadows the first three. It had that little something extra that the others didn’t seem to have.
• Adam Lambert — Feeling Good Another quintessential Adam Lambert performance. He is so incredibly talented. He just seems like a "kiss up" to me. I don't know what it is about him but he rubs me the wrong way. Maybe it's his theatrical and dramatic actions. The audience loves him. Randy thinks he is consistently "in the zone" even if he is theatrical. Kara thinks he is "shocking" in a good way and loves him. Paula .... words cannot describe. Simon thinks it was the best entrance (strut) they've had all year.

They were all incredible tonight. I cannot pick a bottom 3 ... but my bottom 2 picks are: Allison & Matt. I think their time is up and I think it will be Matt although I am worried for Allison too.

My favorite of the night is Danny with Kris a close second.

Idol - Minus 2

Disco Night continues as Paula choreographed the Final Seven in a disco number. I thought it was pretty good ... even though I think they were lip-syncing.

First one to be called - Lil Rounds makes the walk to the far side of the stage (as predicted by moi.) Wow - no surprise, but they didn't make her suffer. They gave her the bad news right away. When she sang her final song, Paula told her she should have sang like that last night. Simon told her he was going to miss her family screaming in the audience!

A medley of old timey Disco singers -

Freda Payne singing Band of Gold. I think she's got to be at least 60 years old if not older! As Sonny said, she's been "rode hard and put up wet." (one of his favorite sayings!) Did you see her belly flopping around?

Thelma Houston singing Don't Leave Me This Way. She didn't need to be poured into that dress - oh my!!

KC - of KC & The Sunshine Band singing Get Down Tonight - Getting old is hell, ain't it? When I lived in Texas, he was on my plane once when I was flying from San Antonio to Dallas. It was a Southwest Airlines flight - about the cheapest you can fly!!

Idol was scraping the bottom of the barrel for those singers!

Back to the results - Kris is called up and he's SAFE! Adam's next and he's SAFE. Next is Danny and he's SAFE. You know, I could have written all that before hearing Ryan announce it.

Now, we have Anoop - he's in the bottom 3.

Allison and Matt are the two left - Allison is in the bottom and Matt is safe. Wow!!

David Archuletta sings next while Allison and Anoop sweat it out. I like his song - he's matured a lot it seems. His voice sounded a little raspy.

OK, back to the results - the second person going home is Anoop ... as I predicted

Final 7 on American Idol - Again!

Tonight is Disco Night. Who picks these themes?

• Lil Rounds - I'm Every Woman by Shaka Khan - sounded a little screamy to me. Paula said she was on vocal rest yesterday so she did good to come out and sing a song like that. None of the judges gave her any encouragement. Simon said this was her final night and I agree. Lil Rounds disagreed with the judges. She's also the first of the night to perform which is another strike against her. Think her time is up and it's time.


• Kris Allen - She Works Hard for the Money by Donna Summer - sure is a different arrangement for a Donna Summer song. Kara loved it as did Paula. Simon didn't understand what Paula was saying but that's OK - he loved Kris' arrangement. Randy thinks he is ready for the big time. I liked it - another great performance for Kris!!


• Danny Gokey - September by Earth, Wind & Fire- He is my favorite! He did great - just incredible! The judges agreed with me. Simon's a little on the fence about it.


• Allison - Hot Stuff - an appropriate song for her. I can’t imagine being 16 and being so confident. The judges are giving her accolades. It was just an OK performance to me. I'm not as "in love" with her as the judges are.
  
• Adam - If I Can't Have You - Wow, does he look different tonight in a suit! He re-invents his look every week. He was great! I really liked his slow version of this song. Randy thinks he is ready to make a record. Kara thinks it was his best. Paul was crying and thinks he is brilliant. Simon thought he would probably do Donna Summer but thought he was outstanding. Folks, he may be the next American Idol!


• Matt Giraud - Staying Alive - Paula's on her feet! This is the Matt we were hoping for the last couple of weeks. I agree with Kara that it wasn’t brilliant, but it was solid. Randy wasn't in love with the song but thinks he can really sing. Paula thought this was a strike for him - not a gutter ball ... whatever that means! Simon was real and of course, didn't like it. I called that one. Simon thought it was a desperate performance - not good vocals, not original ....


• Anoop - Love Don't Come Easy - This was not one of my favorites. Kara thought it was one of his best performances. Paula likes his look tonight - the "growth" on his face and his pink sweater vest! Simon of course completely disagrees with the other judges. I agree with Simon this time.

Randy said this is the most talented Final 7 they've ever had and I agree whole-heartily. I think Kris could be the dark horse in this competition. I don't know that he will end up winning but he'll be like Chris Daughtery and do better as a non-winner and be a recording star. We will definitely hear his name and his songs on the radio.


I think if your name isn’t Kris, Danny or Adam you could potentially be in danger tomorrow night. The others were good, but tonight, they weren’t nearly as original or strong. So here are my picks for going home this week: Anoop and Lil Rounds

Idol Results

Who's it gonna be tonight?

Jennifer Hudson sang tonight. She's certainly come a long way.

Simon takes an opportunity to give Kris feedback on last night’s performance and briefly tells him it was brilliant while Paula parrots “yes it was.”

Bottom three - Anoop, Lil and Matt

Kara confirms that America got it right with the bottom three tonight, and Anoop is sent back to safety. Well, they are 3 of the ones I picked. It won't bother me if it's either Anoop or Lil and I think it will be Lil. Hope it's not Matt. (yes, Ashley, I do like him!) Don't know if they will use their Save for Matt or Lil - probably for Anoop though.

And we hear from Miley Cyrus - I think I am sick of hearing about her!!! She's 16 for goodness sakes ... why don't they let her BE 16? The way she's dressed is just too much. She needs to take a few tips from Allison and be and act like a 16 year old KID! Let her be Hannah Montana and appeal to the teeny-boppers and not try to be what she's not. Even Taylor Swift doesn't try to act like a sex siren. Ok .... enough of my rant - do I sound like an old fogey??? Back to the results show.

OK - Lil was sent back to safety. Matt sang for his life. Now, will they use their SAVE? Kara & Paula were up singing with him. Think they are gonna save him .... The gals don't want him to go. Simon doesn't think he has a chance in the competition. I think Randy, Kara and Paula over-ruled Simon.

Simon abruptly brings everyone back down to earth by pointing out that next week two contestants will go home as well as the fact that it’s Disco Week. Oh well. For now, Matt lives to see another Idol performance. And the plot thickens! Can't see Lil or Anoop doing disco!

American Idol - Top 7

Tonight the contestants are singing "Songs from the Movies with mentor, Quentin Tarantino. Not my favorite director - don't know if I've seen more than one of his movies but we'll see what he does with them.

Since they ran out of time last week, only two judges are going to comment on each contestant. Doesn't make sense! We're down to only 7 contestants .... you'd think with an hour they could do it. Maybe if we cut out some commercials and didn't put one on after EACH singer!!

Here we go!

• Allison - Aerosmith's Don't Want to Close My Eyes - She didn't do it for me tonight. Paula says she is talented; Simon agrees and thinks she is the girl's only chance to win the competition.
• Anoop - Bryan Adams, Everything I do, I do for You - Pretty good! I was thinking he was on borrowed time, but Randy says he has found his "zone" in the last couple of weeks. I agree. Kara says it was one of his best performances.
• Adam - Born to Be Wild from Easy Rider - He definitely gives it 110% each week. Probably not my favorite of his performances. I thought he was a little screechy. Paula love it though - "he dares to dance in the path of greatness"????? Simon thought vocally it was incredible, but parts were like the Rocky Horror Show!! I agree - you either love it or hate it!
• Matt - Bryan Adams, To Really Love A Woman - Chris Daughtery sang this one too. Matt is giving it a bluesy flavor and I like it. Randy doesn't think it one of his best. Kara thinks he takes 2 steps forward and tonight took 2 steps back. He may be in trouble tonight.
• Danny - Endless Love - He got bored so he got a guitar .... how does he get bored doing all the rehearsals, filming commercials, etc.!! Wow! He's singing without his glasses tonight. He's definitely one of my favorites and I'm loving him tonight! Paula thinks he's unique and unforgettable - he wowed and slayed us. Simon says he is a brillant singer but is disappointed with the harp and the traditional singing of the song. But, Simon congratulated him because he realized that was an emotional song for Danny to do.
• Kris - from the movie, Once (never heard of it) and I didn't catch the name of the song - I've not ever heard it. Randy didn't like it - thought it was pitchy. Kara thought it was one of his best.
• Lil Rounds - The Rose - A good song choice for her, I think but she's got some rough patches. Paula only talked about the song - not how she performed. Simon keeps it real and tells her he is getting frustrated with her ... that she is not the singer they met at the beginning of the season. I have to agree. She put her "two cents" worth in too ... unfortunately, she got cut off before I could hear everything she had to say.

OK - my pick for bottom 3 .... it's tough tonight!! Lil, Kris .... Matt, Anoop???

To go home .... Lil