Don't Assume Your Favorite Sing-Off Finalist is a Shoo-In... VOTE! VOTE! VOTE!

Yesterday, my blog on NBC's The Sing-Off television show featured a reminiscence of that other show, FOX television’s American Idol, where one of my favorite contestants, Jennifer Hudson, was booted off early due to an unfortunate luck of the draw of demographics, but later became one of the most successful former contestants in Idol history. Her story reminded me of Afro-Blue, who was voted off before the finals by the Sing-Off judges. However, in the case of Idol, who stays and who goes was determined solely by the voting public.

After several weeks of competition, you, the voting public, also get to choose the winner of the Sing-Off. Don't assume that your favorite is a shoo-in. You still must pick up the phone and text or call, or your favorite may suffer a similar fate of other American Idol finalists: Clay Aiken, David Archuleta, Chris Daughtry, Adam Lambert, Kelly Pickler, and Elliot Yamin, just to name a few, who were eliminated (some very early on) and didn't walk home with the American Idol prize itself, but have proven themselves to be highly successful out in the real world, sometimes more successful than that season's actual winner.

I want to see my favorite Sing-Off a cappella group win the grand prize: the $200,000 in cash and the Sony Recording Contract. This will give them a boost in the music business and the confidence they need to move forward, keep producing quality music, and not give up. Please take the time and trouble to vote.

You can vote for your favorite of the three groups by going online to the NBC Sing-Off website, calling or texting:

Penatatonix:
Call: 1-877-674-6401
Text: 1 to 97979

Urban Method:
Call: 1-877-674-6402
Text: 2 to 97979

Dartmouth Aires:
Call: 1-877-674-6403
Text: 3 to 97979

Sing-Off Makes an American Idol Mistake

Last night on NBC's The Sing-Off, Judges Sara Bareilles and Doctor Ben Folds chose to send home Afro-Blue, a jazzy-blues a cappella group from Howard University. I experienced a moment of deja vu, and remembered a similar mistake made in another talent competition show, American Idol.

American Idol Sends Home a Star

In 2004, during the third season of FOX television’s American Idol, an amazingly talented singer who I felt could win the grand prize that year was voted off the show in the sixth round, halfway through the final competition. The decision was so shocking, we TV viewers at home could hear an audible gasp from the live, onstage audience. I was watching that night, and I remember my jaw dropped.

“This can’t be happening. How did this happen?” I asked.

In the case of American Idol Season III, the burden of determining who stays and who goes was placed solely on the shoulders of the TV viewing audience who voted for the contestants by placing multiple phone calls or texts. The judges did not decide themselves – their only power was in giving critiques of each performance, in hopes to sway the voting public at home.

That performer who was sent home prematurely, was none other than Jennifer Hudson. Hudson is now a household name, currently with a big commercial deal promoting Weight Watchers. She starred in the 2006 hit movie, Dream Girls, where she won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, a Golden Globe Award, a BAFTA Award, an NAACP Image Award and a Screen Actors Guild Award. She recorded a top ten hit with "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going," from the movie Dream Girls; won a Grammy for her first album, “Jennifer Hudson,” released in 2008; reached number 2 on Billboard’s top 200 with her second album, “I Remember Me,” released earlier this year in March; and had a top ten hit with “Where You At,” the single from that album.

She is one of the more highly successful former American Idol competitors, and to think she was sent home so early at week six! It boggles the mind, until you look at the demographics.

Judging Based on Looks, Not Sound

Unfortunately, through the luck of the draw, there were three African American female stars competing against each other during the third season of American Idol: La Toya London, Jennifer Hudson, and the eventual grand prize winner, Fantasia Barrino. All three ended up in the bottom three that day after the viewing public voted in their favorites, who had each performed a Barry Manilow hit. The assumption is that, being similar in style and sound, the three shared many of the same fans, creating an unfair advantage for their competitors. There was only one Asian American in the mix, Jasmine Trias, and despite negative criticism from the judges early on, she proceeded to the final three spot in the competition. The token red headed cutey crooner, John Stevens, made it even one show farther than Hudson, though I think most of us at home were scratching our heads over that one. It was clear that race was the deciding factor with many of the voting public.

It isn’t just race. It’s looks. In more recent years of American Idol, I’ve seen contestants chosen by the judges who I feel had less talent than my little finger, but my oh my, they were gorgeous! The Voice, another of NBC’s singer competition shows, attempted to eliminate “looks” from the judges decision by not allowing the judges to see the performers during the first round. However, they proved themselves fallible by letting the judges turn around afterwards. I’ll never forget when Judge Blake Shelton took one look at a rejected female competitor (the name of whom escapes me, now), commented on her looks, and said something to the effect of, “I wish I’d known, I would have picked you.”

Although I don’t believe Afro-Blue was eliminated by the Sing-Off judges because their group consists of nearly all African Americans, I do wonder if Vocal Point, an all white male group from the conservative Brigham Young University, was eliminated for being too racially homogeneous. Instead, the bells-and-whistles-performance-heavy Dartmouth Aires group, consisting of 15 men of various races and character types was given one of the treasured three spots to compete in the finals. That decision also left me scratching my head. While the Dartmouth Aires will no doubt do quite well on tour, entertaining and amazing audiences, most likely opening for Ben Folds himself, I wonder how many records they’ll sell. Kids don’t buy records. Adults do. Kids pirate records. I would imagine that the more mature-polished sounding Vocal Point will outsell them two to one, and Afro-Blue will do even better, possibly outselling them four to one, by dominating the jazz-blues contemporary music market.

Are the Music Buying Public Being Underestimated?

Sing-Off Judges Sara Bareilles and Ben Folds chose Dartmouth Aires over Afro-Blue on last nights show. Judge Shawn Stockman said he felt Afro-Blue has a better chance of making a hit record, and I agree.

After the show aired, while the “shit hit the fan,” metaphorically speaking, Judge Ben Folds confessed that Afro-Blue was his favorite group from day one, and commending them, said in his blog on NBC’s Sing-Off website, “Afro-Blue stands for excellence in music education and for the great underdog American art form of jazz. Neither of these concepts often leads to lucrative ventures and both are under-represented on TV and radio.”

With all due respect, Dr. Folds, I disagree with your decision to eliminate them on many levels. Music tastes change with the times. Who is to say that Afro-Blue’s particular flavor of bluesy jazz is not the next big thing? I find their sound to be quite refreshing and inventive, with a contemporary sounding solid bass and percussive rhythm supporting a more traditional jazzy interweaving of opposing harmonies, and thick rich bluesy vocals carrying the main bell-like melody. Recent movies, such as the aforementioned Dream Girls and Cadillac Records both generated multiple awards and big record sales from similar music.

Today’s buying public are not getting their music fix on radio, nor TV. Listeners now listen to Spotify and Pandora over radio; view videos on youtube and facebook – not on TV (does MTV even have any music at all anymore?); and buy more music on CD Baby, itunes, and Amazon, than in those wonderfully old-fashioned record stores we love so much.

I think perhaps you are limiting yourself and underestimating a growing jazz-blues-appreciative audience, dear sir.

They say living well is the best revenge. I hope Afro-Blue, the little music-class-from-Howard-University-that-could, gets signed to a killer record deal, makes a hit record, gets a soundtrack deal, and follows in the footsteps of the fabulous Jennifer Hudson, winning a Grammy. I will be one of the first in line to buy their record, when they do!

Time to Vote!

You can vote for your favorite of the three groups by going online to the NBC Sing-Off website, calling or texting:

Penatatonix:
Call: 1-877-674-6401
Text: 1 to 97979

Urban Method:
Call: 1-877-674-6402
Text: 2 to 97979

Dartmouth Aires:
Call: 1-877-674-6403
Text: 3 to 97979

The X Factor comes to Miami

Get in your cars, boys and girls, and hightail it to Miami, FL for tomorrow’s registration of The X Factor, Simon Cowell’s singing performing talent competition which will debut in the USA this Fall on FOX television. The grand prize awarded to the winner(s) is a $5 million recording contract.

I, for one, am guardedly enthusiastic about the show’s debut. Cowell’s first US project, American Idol, which aired in 2002, has lost it’s luster over the years due to multiple changes in the show’s format (most for the worst, in my opinion), so seeing another Cowell project in its original form, before network executives get their grubby little greedy hands on it, should be a refreshing treat. The show has been a hit in the UK for seven years since 2004 under the names, "The Xtra Factor" and "The X Factor." (Just to be fun and truly original for America, I would love it if it were renamed simply "X-factor.")

The X Factor format will be a bit like Star Search or America’s Got Talent, except that only singing is judged. Both individuals and a capella or vocal groups may enter. Participants are encouraged to pull out all the stops on glitz and glamour, wearing their most sparkly and outrageously original stage costumes, and dancing like there’s no tomorrow, if that’s your thang. You may also dress down – think Susan Bowle, who managed to start her international singing career on Britain’s Got Talent, another of Cowell’s brainchild competition talent shows.

Cowell gives a few words of advice on The X Factor home page, most notably what not to sing: Jason Miraz’s I’m Yours, Lionel Richie’s Hello, Fly Me to the Moon, Mac the Knife, and Unchained Melody. Whatever you do decide to sing, avoid mimicking – be original.

Contestants must be at least 12 years of age and born no later than March 1, 1999. Unlike American Idol, there is no age limit. Even 92-year olds are welcome.

HOW TO TRY OUT IN MIAMI

On Wednesday, April 6, individuals interested in competing are invited to register to compete at the Bank United Center on 1245 Dauer Dr., in Coral Gables, Florida.

No time is given to appear on April 6, although a strict “no camping” rule will be in place. You are encouraged to either take the Metrorail public transportation to the venue, or park in the Village of Merrick Park or Shops of Sunset Place and ride the free shuttle to the competition. Shuttles begin operating at 6 AM.

Please bring two forms of legal ID, one with a photo: a birth certificate and driver’s license or school ID, for instance, to show proof of identity and birthday. If you would like family members and friends to accompany you to try out, they too must register on April 6 in order to receive a wristband.

The auditions themselves will be held on April 7 beginning at 8 AM.

Please look over the following online pages for more information:

Home page
Miami information
Rules
Facts

PREVIEW ARTICLE

Not one to reinvent the wheel, I recognize a quality article when I read one. Here’s Bill Keveney’s preview which was published on March 24, 2011 online at USA Today News: click here for article. It’s a well written account and will catch you off guard about half way through with a few fun quotes from Cowell which Keveney was able to capture for his article:
“If you're not in a band, put a band together.”
Also,
“It’s warts and all. Never censor it.”

JUST WANT TO WATCH?

Have no desire to compete, but still want to be a part of the show? Apply for free tickets to appear in the audience. The Miami dates will be on June 14th and 15th at the convention center.

Click here for link.

American Idol – Ba-Ba-Ba-Boring!

I had a night off from work last night and decided to catch the debut of Season 10 of American Idol on Fox TV. I had boycotted Season 9 after one of my favorite judges, Paula Abdul, left at the end of Season 8 after she was not given a fittingly respectfully and equitable pay raise to her counterpart, Simon Cowell. Edging Paula out in Season 8 was Kara DioGuardi, who awkwardly dominated as a fourth judge and left poor Simon no time to talk. Now that Kara had also left the show, I was willing to give American Idol another shot.

Sadly, judges Simon Cowell and Ellen DeGeneres have also left this year, so the judges bench has been restocked with two fresh new faces, amazing performer Steven Tyler of Aerosmith, and entertainer/entrepreneur Jennifer Lopez. Returning consistently each season has been judge Randy Jackson, former bassist for Journey and Grammy Award winning producer, manager, singer, and music industry executive.

Sadly, the new lineup of judges is appearing a bit lackluster and kind of um… boring.

American Idol Season 10 judges: Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler, and host Ryan Seacrest.

I can’t say I don’t like the judges. Actually, they are all quite likable, extremely knowledgeable, and with time, perhaps they will become just as entertaining as The Original 3: Randy, Paula, and Simon. What they lack is dynamics.

The problem lies in that Steven, J.Lo., and Randy are pretty much the same critic. They don’t seem to differ on opinions and always agree with each other. This can’t be possible – someone up there is afraid to say what they feel. They need to let go, say what they want, and accept that this will mean that some American Idol fans will love them, while some will beg for their firing. Excitement equals higher ratings. Higher ratings equals job security. It's ironic how that works.

What the new lineup lacks is a “Simon,” someone with that over-the-top, opinionated, gloves-off, naked criticism which makes you curse and swear when you don’t agree with him, then promptly grab your cell phone at the end of the show and call the number for that poor, abused contestant, pressing buttons until your fingers bleed.

Loopy, but smart, Paula was truly my favorite judge. I sometimes watched the show just to see what ridiculous thing she might say next, then spent the next day chatting with friends about it over coffee. Her on camera playful romantic chemistry with Simon was a fun soap-opera-esque side story to the show.

Randy was overshadowed by the two stronger personalities, but did not fail to add interest, introducing new vernacular to my vocabulary, such as “pitchy” to describe “singing off-key,” and sweetly telling contestants, “Yo, dawg! It was a’right,” implying that their performance was not so spectacular. Being the first in line to offer criticism, his colorful evaluations helped soften the blows of what was to come at the end of the judges row: Simon.

What was truly refreshing about The Original 3, was that they seldom agreed. When Paula didn’t like someone, they were really, really bad. When all three loved a contestant, you knew that singer was on their way to stardom. With the current 3 judges awarding praises like gold medals at grade school sports competitions, and offering only candy-coated criticisms, I must instead turn to my gut and my passel of friends for insights into what was right and what was wrong with each singer’s performance.

Hosting the show again for a 10th year is disc jockey Ryan Seacrest.

A welcome addition to this year’s Idol is longtime recording engineer, producer, and chairman of Interscope-Geffen-A&M, Jimmy Iovine, who works as sideline mentor and coach to the contestants. His thoughtful advice to the singers helps to set the stage and inform the audience about what characteristics they should look for in the performances.

MY PICKS

Who does TVgrrrrl pick to win Idol this Season? After seeing only one show (due to my hectic work schedule), my favorite is:

Casey Abrams – age 20 from Wilmette, IL – who rocked out on the Beatles’ “With a Little Help from My Friends” with intense energy and emotion. The boy has “star” written all over him.

However, I was also impressed with (in ABC order):

Naima Adedapo – age 26, from Milwaukee, WI – who is the complete package and thoroughly entertained us dancing and singing “Umbrella” alone with no backup vocalists (unlike many of the other singers)

James Durbin – age 22, from Santa Cruz, CA – who’s young voice was quite sweet on “Maybe I’m Amazed” and will no doubt become a force to be reckoned with as his voice ages;

Jacob Lusk – age 23, from Compton, CA – who moved me on “I Believe I Can Fly” with heartfelt emotion;

Thia Megia – age 16, from Hayward, CA – who’s silky sweet voice killed the ballad portion of “Smile,” then surprised us with a uniquely interesting dance jazz arrangement on the latter half of the song; and

Haley Reinhart – age 20, from Wheeling, IL – who exhibited wonderful vocal control on “Blue.”

Of course, that’s just one show and over the many years of watching Idol, I’ve learned that while some performers seem to become invigorated by all the constant work and attention, excelling to unimaginable levels (such as Clay Aiken), others fall apart. One thing is for certain: This year’s Idol contestants do not disappoint. America seems to have a bottomless resource of quality vocal talent and I’m sure some hit makers will come out of this year’s bunch.

Ben Folds should have his own TV music show

Judge Ben Folds has posted his final Sing-Off Season II blog on the finale. The show aired on NBC after Thanksgiving as an off-season filler on five weekday nights (Mondays and Wednesdays), and featured ten a capella groups competing to win a grand prize of cash and a SONY recording contract.

When I read Ben's Sing-Off blog, my first thought was, this fits perfectly sandwiched into the middle of my last blog, right under my second paragraph where I commend the other nine groups who did not win the grand prize. Not only does it explain a bit about what goes on behind the scenes, it also contains links to each group's website, facebook page, and/or twitter account. I was especially glad to read the explanation of why the judges were so in love with the Backbeats, and why pitch was simply not that important in every instance.

Please take the time to read this: On Key with Ben Folds

A lot of fans have suggested that Ben Folds become one of the new replacement judges on American Idol. He does makes a wonderful Sing-Off judge, but I hope he does not end up on American Idol, not because he wouldn't be great at it, but because the show is a sinking ship.

Instead, I would like to hear more from Ben on his thoughts on music in general. He appears to have endless knowledge on just about every music genre, both obscure and popular, and understands what's happening below the auditory surface. He also has excellent taste, is quite articulate on camera and has a huge following: over 330,000 fans on facebook alone. So, why not give Ben his own TV show?

Off camera, Ben Folds mentions that he has actually never seen American Idol due to his very busy schedule and would like to watch some reruns. For anyone who wants to do this, I recommend you go all the way back to Seasons 2 through 4 when the show was in my opinion, at it's peak. Changes in later years have been it's downfall and include everything from tryout footage being cut (the group tryouts were my favorite part of the show); stacking the deck with better singers of one race or sex in an effort to get a winner who's white, female, black, blonde or whatever (yes, we at home were on to you); splitting up competitors into unfair groups; showing favoritism in order to sway the voting public towards a certain winner; and perhaps the worst change of all: adding a fourth judge which cut down the time each judge had to speak.

Boycott Idol, if Paula doesn’t get a raise!

On Wednesday, several news sources reported the details of why host Paula Abdul has decided to quit the hit FOX television marvel, American Idol. At first, it seemed that her demands for more money seemed unreasonable. However, it’s only fair that she be paid at least a decent percentage of what her male cohort, Simon Cowell, is paid. If Paula doesn't get offered a decent raise, I for one, plan to boycott the show when it airs next January.

Here's the salary breakdown:

Simon Cowell - $36 million per year
(according to the New York Post, Oct. 13, 2008 article)

Ryan Seacrest - $10 million per year,

plus a $15 million upfront bonus for licensing usage over the next 3 years, for $45 million total over 3 years.

(according to the New York Times, July 13, 2009 article)

Paula Abdul – formerly $2 million per year,
(plus $1.5 for show related expenses, such as hair, makeup, clothes, stylist, transportation, and security, which I don't feel can be counted as salary).
Offered $5 million per year (according to the New York Times, August 5, 2009 article).
Asked for $20 million (according to radaronline.com, July 20, 2009 article).

Randy Jackson – estimated at $2 million per year.

(popdirt.com stated on August 22, 2003 that he and cohost Paula Abdul were both vying for a raise to $1.5 million each that year. Since Paula is now making $2 million, I have to assume Randy is making the same).

Kara DioGuardi – estimated at $2 million per year.

There are only two people on Idol who cannot be replaced: Paula and Simon. The two offer a colorful Yin and Yang of critiquing Idol hopefuls -- one spiritually positive, one sarcastically negative.

I can take or leave Ryan and Randy. Though both are talented and likable, I could easily imagine either being replaced.

Kara makes a miserable host – she talks far too much and leaves no time for Simon. Plus, she repeatedly echoes the ugly truths about the music industry that we don't really want to hear: that producers prefer the young, charming, pretty people, who are the "complete package." Who cares about looks when you’re listening to music?

Will Good Orlando Magic Juju Wear Off on Idol Contestants?

FOX television’s American Idol is holding their 9th season auditions in Orlando this year at Amway Arena, the home of the NBA Basketball team, the Orlando Magic. Over the next two days, hopeful Idol contestants can register for a chance to audition in front of the show’s producers on Thursday, July 9. Of those, a few will be chosen to perform later this summer in front of Idol’s Fabulous Four: judges Simon Cowell (sigh!), Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson, and Kara DioGuardi McCuddy (recently married, Kara McCuddy has a nice ring to it and is easier to spell).

In a city built up by Disney, “where dreams really do come true,” and where the Cinderella team, the Orlando Magic surprised many critics by making it all the way to the NBA finals this year, could Orlando, maybe even Amway Arena itself, actually be truly “magical?”

Although talent is the first requirement, luck does play a part in getting to audition live in front of the famous Idol judges. You have to stand out – have a magnetic personality, be cute or gorgeous, dress outrageously, or sing phenomenally for the producers as they survey the crowd.

Sadly, TVgrrrrl is too old to audition this year (over 28). Boo hoo! I wouldn’t make the cut, anyway (As Simon says, I’m “too ordinary”). But, it would be fun to just “be there” amidst all the excitement at Amway Arena.

If you are planning to stand in line for a ticket, there’s no magic which will protect you from the sun and the heat – bring your sunscreen, lots of bottled water (no coolers allowed within a certain area), a hat, a folding chair, a fold-up poncho to stay dry during our wacky 10 minute rain storms; or even better -- a close friend or family member to put up an awning over the sidewalk and watch your cooler and stuff when it’s your turn to go inside. Don’t forget to read the FAQ’s, rules and release form online before showing up.

For the best juju, practice lots of “magic” songs, such as:
Abracadabra -- Steve Miller
A Kind of Magic – Queen
Black Magic Woman – Fleetwood Mac
Blue Magic – Jay-Z
Do You Believe in Magic -- The Lovin’ Spoonful
Every Little Thing She Does is Magic – The Police
It’s Magic -- The Fender’s
Magic Man – Heart
Magic Carpet Ride – Steppenwolf
Magic – The Cars
Magic – Pilot
Strange Magic -- ELO
That Old Black Magic – Johnny Mercer
This Magic Moment – The Drifters

When You Wish Upon a Star -- Jiminy Cricket

You Can Do Magic -- America

In your down time, you can also visit the American Idol Experience at Walt Disney World. If I were a betting girl, I’d go there when the judges visit later this summer – you never know, they might just show up for a TV promo!

Read the TV Guy column (no relation) online at Orlando Sentinel.com and see photos of competitors waiting outside, by Joe Burbank.

Katy Does Idol

Last night, American Idol viewers were treated to a Vegas show-like performance by none other than Katy Perry, who chose the occasion to introduce the world to her new single, “Waking Up in Vegas.” Perry made it clear who she was routing for this Idol Season – her female elvis costume, complete with cape, was embroidered in lipstick red with the name, “Adam Lambert.”

The complete video was released only about a week ago and can currently be seen on YouTube (TV on demand!) at: Waking Up in Vegas.

NOTE: I was going to tell my readers to catch the video on my favorite video music station, MTV or VH1, but then I remembered that neither station, even the alternate versions of them, show many real music videos anymore. Such a shame! However, the MTV website does not disappoint. Catch a really, super cool documentary on the complexities of making the “Waking Up in Vegas” video at: MTV.com. (Note: scroll down to the window below the article, the one with the arrow.) In it, you'll hear about the cute guy in the video, the Bob Mackie dress, Perry's wigs, her favorite outfit, and how she was able to pull off cameos by some famous and impressive Vegas icons.

By the end of American Idol, Perry's gamble paid off and Adam Lambert was chosen to be one of the two finalists after Danny Gokey (sniff!) didn’t earn enough votes. Kris Allen, who’s voice I’ve ironically compared to Katy Perry, was the other finalist.

As I’ve said before and will many times again, it doesn’t matter who wins at this point. This isn’t the last we’ll see of Gokey, or any of the other fantastic Idol competitors this season. As a matter of fact, I'll make a prediction now that this will be the most successful "after idol" group of contestants the show has ever featured.

American Idol Recap

This week, we learned some extremely disappointing news. Simon Cowell confessed to Oprah Winfrey during the airing of her Monday show that this was indeed his last scheduled season as a judge on the Fox hit TV show, American Idol. However, after much prodding from Winfrey, he agreed to "leave the door open."

I would be extremely disappointed if Cowell were not on the show voicing his expert opinions each week. He is by far one of the most interesting judges, making articulate and fascinating comparisons of singing performances to horror movies, animal sounds, and every day living. (Paul Abdul is a close second with her colorful wit and interesting insights). To be honest, I could do without either Kara DioGuardi or Randy Jackson. Sometimes it seems they duplicate each other. Maybe one of them should go, instead.

But, back to tonight's competition...

Each performer was given two opportunities to sing. The first song was picked by a judge. The second was picked by the contestant.

01 — Danny Gokey — Dance Little Sister — 5 Stars

I was making dinner, so I didn't get to actually SEE Danny dance. Dioguardi and Cowell both said it was awkward. However, Abdul, who chose the song for him (originally performed by Terence Trent D'Arby), said she thought he did an excellent job with his choreography.

I could hear Gokey singing while I worked in the kitchen, and his vocal performance was so incredibly controlled and flawless, but super high energy, that I ran out to write down 5 stars for him. When I buy the CD, I want it to sound good. I could care less what the performers look like. If they do dance funny, that just makes the concert more interesting.

02 — Kris Allen — Too Late to Apologize — 3 stars

Jackson and Dioguardi chose this dark and moody Timbaland song for Kris Allen, one of my favorite songs of this century. Allen sat at the piano, his voice a bit shaky as he sang the slow beginning of the song. However, once he got into the more intense portions, it was great. I have to guess that the emotional quavering of his voice which has seemed to develop during the competition will soon be his trademark.

The only thing odd about this song was that this was the first time I've ever heard a judge judge a judge (what a tongue twister!). Dioguardi said she didn't like Allen's arrangement and choice of instrument, and Cowell slapped back at her that she was responsible for helping Allen put the song together. So much drama! What will we do without you, Cowell?

03 — Adam Lambert — One — 4 stars

Adam Lambert's voice was purely melodic as he launched into the emotional beginning of his rendition of One, by U2. However, the song was a bit rocky as he picked up the tempo and transitioned into his powerhouse vocals. Once Lambert belted out the lyrics, the performance was emotionally stirring.

04 — Danny Gokey — You Are So Beautiful — 5 stars

Billy Preston would have been proud to hear Danny Gokey's interesting minor key arrangement of "You Are So Beautiful," which added an unusual atmosphere to the song. Gokey has the ability to sing well at any tempo or intensity. The raspy tone of his voice melds with his perfect pitch. The overall result was romantic and powerful. Abdul said it best, "You left all of us breathless."

05 — Kris Allen — Heartless — 5 stars

Kris Allen chose to sing Kanye West's Heartless. As he pounded out the song on accoustic guitar, I was reminded of solo performances I've seen by Richard Thompson. Allen carried the song alone without additional accompaniment, the interesting nuances and tonal characters of his voice creating a moving rendition. I think he may go down in history as one of the most successful Idol finalists, after the show is over, once he has a chance to do what he wants to do. 

06 — Adam Lambert — Crying — 4 stars

For Adam Lambert's personal pick, he chose Crying by Aerosmith. During the quiet beginning of the song, his voice was so clear and melodic, that the tone was intensely beautiful. Once again, the transition in intensity from ballad to rock was a bit unbearable. (I assume it's due to lack of time to prepare). However, once he began to scream (and he can scream in tune and it even sounds good!), Lambert was able to rope in the crowd.

My biggest criticism: the background vocals were far, far too loud. This is a strategy used by many performers to help them compensate for their inability to always reach the high notes. However, Lambert doesn't need "bulking up." Since this was his arrangement, I have to call him on it.

American Idol recap

Watching American Idol last night made me realize just how much I love rocking out to old '70s music. I missed out on Zeppelin and Skynyrd the first time around. I'm now ready for a rock and roll revival and I think this year's crop of Idol contestants show real aptitude. Slash from Guns N Roses gave his advice to each of the contestants.

At this point, who really cares who wins, anyway? I love all four of the final contestants -- so much, I didn't even vote. How do you pick the best from such an array of talent?

What was truly odd were the duets -- if you can call them that -- where the contestants had to pair up. I thought the duets were entertaining, though a little over the top.  I couldn't possibly judge a person based on how well they work with others. Isn't that on work performance reviews? Not talent shows? Anyway... 

01 — Adam Lambert — A Whole Lot of Love — 5 Stars

Back in 2007 when Blake Lewis was getting close to winning American Idol, he told his friends, and his friends told their friends, and so on not to vote for him. He didn't want to win because he was worried he might get forced to sign a recording contract where he had to sing Barry Manilow songs.

Fortunately for Adam Lambert, if he wins this competition (and well he could), last night's performance solidified a spot for himself in the world of rock and roll. Kara Dioguardi said, "You got the vocals for it. It's your thing. Go at it!"

02 — Allison Iraheta — Cry Baby — 5 stars

This was the absolute perfect song for Allison Iraheta to showcase her amazing rocker voice. Her voice displayed soft feminine emotion mixed with rough, rocking excitement. I loved the performance. She is reminding me more and more of Tina Turner every week.

At the end of the performance, it was nice to see Iraheta defend her choice of songs. The girl's got moxie!

03 — Kris Allen — Come Together — 5 stars

Wow! Wow! Wow! I've been pretty bored with Allen's soft ballads all season. I was never a boy band fan and couldn't bear to listen to N Sync. So, when I felt that this year's finalists were being handpicked by the judges to be the next components of a new boy band, I automatically developed a dislike for anyone who fit the mold -- including Kris Allen.

However, by being forced to sing a rock and roll song, I heard a unique tonal character in Allen's voice that I'd never heard before. It's hard to explain, but I suppose you could consider his voice to be the male equivalent of Katy Perry's (listen to the ballads on her CD). His voice cracks and wanders in all the right places. 

04 — Danny Gokey — Dream On — 2 stars

Ugh! Rock and roll is not Gokey's forte. This is my favorite Aerosmith song and I've heard better renditions at our local karaoke biker bar. The beginning was off time and odd. The middle was great. The scream at the end sounded like he'd fallen off a building. Gokey would have done better singing Eric Clapton or the Who.

However, I still think he'll make it to the finals. Gokey was my favorite from day one. He has a huge following of fans and there's no doubt they are going to vote him through. Idol needs a good Christian rock ballad singer.

American Idol recap

All week long, I waited in eager anticipation to see tonight's American Idol. Disco Night! How very, very cool. What will they do? I thought.

Imagine my disappointment when a few of the performers didn't follow directions and wimped out, turning a classic up tempo, heavy driving bass-drum dance-beat into a non-recognizable, passe ballad. Hmpf! For that reason, I removed stars from some of the  performances. There's probably no harder genre than disco and I have to give credit to everyone who tried it.

01 — Lil Rounds — I'm Every Woman — 2 Stars

If Rounds hadn't been pitchy, pitchy, pitchy, I would have easily given her four stars for her performance of this Chaka Khan song.  It's really hard to go on first and bring the tempo from zero to sixty in one second flat. But Rounds did an excellent job of warming up the crowd. 

02 — Kris Allen — She Works Hard for the Money — 4 stars

Allen chose to ignore the disco theme, and instead created a more moving rendition on guitar of this "woman-power" song sung by vocal powerhouse, Donna Summer. I really liked his creative arrangement, the funky beat, and the tropical sound, which reminded me of Gloria Estefan. I think maybe Allen has found his niche.

03 — Danny Gokey — September — 5 stars

When Gokey hits the stage, one can't help but feel that they are watching a professional performer. Smooth, smooth, smooth. The arrangement of this Earth, Wind, and Fire classic was good, especially in the way he enlisted the help of the incredibly talented backup singers. Great job!

04 — Allison Iraheta — Hot Stuff — 5 stars

Iraheta's performance was both strange and bizarre, but in a really good way. This was one time when her intense vocals worked well for her as she built from a soft and soulful verse into an intense, rock/disco chorus. Wearing six inch heals and a strangely shredded sequined ensemble, she got my attention. The drama was perfect. Her voice was perfect. The tempo was perfect. Fabulous!

05 — Adam Lambert — If I Can't Have You — 4 stars

When you think "disco," most people think "Saturday Night Fever." Lambert picked his song from this album, but did it straight, wearing a black suit, tie and white shirt.  He ignored the disco genre and sang the song as a ballad, proving that he can be a fabulous singer without all the bells and whistles. Sometimes, Lambert reminds me of Elvis. Tonight, he reminded me of Robert Smith of "The Cure." Whenever you see Lambert perform, you know you're watching something really, really special.

06 — Matt Giraud — Staying Alive — 3 stars

Giraud proved that not only can he dance and sing in tune and on time (have you ever tried that? It's impossible!), but that he can sing anything, even disco! It was energetic and I should have loved it, but... Unfortunately, it was lacking a certain something, which I haven't been able to put my finger on. Simon suggested that the performance "came over as a bit desperate." Maybe that's what it was lacking - confidence?

07 — Anoop Desai — Dim All the Lights — 3 stars

In an effort to showcase his sexy voice, Desai slowed down the tempo on this Donna Summer hit. Unfortunately, it didn't work for me. Singing "Gonna dance the night away" to a slow tempo sounded a bit loungey. I think this was a missed opportunity. 

Wild Card Giraud Saved a Second Time

Matt Giraud has been voted out twice by America. Twice, he has been saved by the American Idol judges.

The first time Giraud was saved by the judges was after he had been voted out during the preliminary elimination rounds. However, he was saved by the judges as one of their four wild card contestants. Anoop Desai, another wild card, was also among the lowest vote getters during this elimination round. The other two wild cards, Jasmine Murray and Megan Joy Corkrey, were eliminated earlier in the season.

This time, Giraud was saved by the judges as their one and only, "save" for the season.

Was saving Giraud the right decision? Does it really matter at this point, if you get voted off, or not?

Two of the most successful final ten Idol competitors did not win the contest: Jennifer Hudson, who came in 7th place during the third season, but who has since won a Grammy and an Oscar; and Chris Daughtry, who came in 4th place during the fifth season, but has made his mark in the serious rock circuit. It's apparent that once you arrive at the finals, you've already won for all intents and purposes. You've gotten the attention of producers, record companies, and most importantly, potential customers -- the CD buying, iTunes downloading, concert ticket buying public . It's up to you to now ride the wave of success.

Giraud will have another shot, but I think it's a moot point. America will continue to vote for their favorites and I doubt he'll make it through the next two rounds. Fortunately, record sales seem to have nothing to do with the voting and Giraud has a good shot at being successful if he puts out a good product.

Speaking of "making your mark," whatever happened to Nicole Tieri, also known as Scooter Girl? She was one of my absolute favorites who did not make it to the semifinals, along with Nick Mitchell (aka Norman), who was eliminated early in this season. Both would have made the show so much more interesting!

American Idol recap

Today’s American Idol featured songs from the Cinema and 7 contestants performed.  Before tonight, I predicted that the final three competitors might be: Adam Lambert, Allison Iraheta, and Danny Gokey.  However, tonight brought some surprises.

Adam Lambert was so spectacular, he moved into a position at the top, which meant I had to remove a star from everyone else's ratings.

01 — Allison Iraheta — I Don't Want to Miss A Thing — 3 Stars

Tonight, the tone in Iraheta's voice reminded me of Tina Turner. The beginning was soft and emotional. However, Iraheta bumped up the intensity too quickly so that she was shouting by the middle of the song. I graded her down for being off key and not utilizing the incredibly beautiful melody, originally composed by Diane Warren and intended for Celine Dion, but sung by Aerosmith. Iraheta is only 16 and has room to grow and learn how to use dynamics to build a song.

02 — Anoop Desai — Everything I Do — 4 stars

There is no doubt that this was Desai's best performance to date. His emotional rendition of Bryan Adams hit song was pleasant and soulful. Great job!

03 — Adam Lambert — Born To Be Wild — 5 stars

Move over Ozzy, Adam's in town!  My gosh!  This isn't American Idol. I think I've just watched an incredible rock concert by one of the biggest stars in heavy metal. Not only was Lambert's performance spectacular, it was one of the best I've seen from ANYONE, and I've seen Aerosmith live, twice. Unbelievable!

04 — Matt Giraud — Have You Ever Really Loved A Woman — 2 stars

How did this happen? This is the worst I've ever heard Giraud sing. The song was off key. The arrangement was bad - the band came in too late and was too loud. A simple string quartet would have been best. Ugh!

05 — Danny Gokey — Endless Love — 4 stars

Truly, hasn't Gokey heard that Endless Love is one of the more 'done over' songs in history? Seriously, I thought the intro was not his best, but in true Gokey style, he wowed us at the end. As Paula Abdul said, "You slay us at the end."

06 — Kris Allen — Falling Slowly — 4 stars

This was a truly emotional rendition of a song which I quite honestly had never heard before, written by Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova. The song is so obscure, I couldn't even find it on YouTube. Nevertheless, I really like the way he made the performance seem special. My biggest complaint was that the backup singers drowned him out as the song moved into the chorus. Allen's voice is strong enough to hold it's own on the high notes. He doesn't need to be 'bulked up,' to hide a lack of range.

07 — Lil Rounds — The Rose — 3 stars

This is another song that has been overdone. Rounds started off the song off key and weak. She does poorly on quiet songs which require a lighter, clearer voice. However, once she hopped into her soulful gospel rendition of the song, it was fabulous. I wish she had done the gospel rendition throughout.

Big Surprise -- Another Wild Card Down

As Megan Joy Corkrey leaves American Idol after being voted off yesterday, I can’t help but wonder: Were the judges wrong to pick her as one of the wild cards? Should there have even been any wild cards?

If viewers had been allowed to vote in their twelve favorites from the entire pool of 36 final contestants, I don’t believe that either Corkrey or Jasmine Murray, eliminated second, would have made it. Sadly, I don’t think Anoop Desai will be around much longer, either.

The judges picked their wild cards primarily by looks.

But, the proof is in the iTunes. When I close my eyes and listen to the contestants sing, it’s very apparent who could possibly be successful in the “real world.” Yes, there will be men flocking after Corkrey and Murray. Yes, there will be preteen girls who want to be them. But no, I won’t pay money to buy their recordings. Sorry, gals.

My theory is that Matt Giraud would have been voted in if viewers hadn’t been limited in their number of choices.

American Idol recap

Today’s American Idol featured downloadable songs from I-Tunes and 9 contestants performed. Only 3 girls remain, and sadly, none performed at their best. I'm afraid that one may be going home.

In order of performance:

01 — Anoop Desai — Caught Up — 2 Stars

Each time Desai stopped singing, he lowered the mike. When he finally remembered to raise it back up to sing, his timing ending up a bit off. This song requires *snap* and is not very forgiving. Next time, keep the mike up high the whole time, Desai! 

Being first is always the absolute worst spot and unfortunately for Desai, he had to go on in the cold spot. Although Desai's rendition lacked the intense emotions of the later performances, I actually felt that this song really showed off his incredibly smooth and mellow vocal tone, somewhat reminiscent of Lionel Richie.

02 — Megan Joy — Turn Your Lights Down Low — 0 stars

Ugh! Beautiful girl. Not a beautiful voice. I've never liked it. (So sorry! I hate my own voice, too, really!)

03 — Danny Gokey — What Hurts the Most — 5 stars

Wow!  He's a Stah!!! 

04 — Allison Iraheta — Don't Speak — 4 stars

The judges were wrong to criticize Iraheta's killer outfit! Really. When I first saw her, I thought "Pebbles Flintstone." Retro '40s fashion designer, Kenley Collins (2008 Project Runway), could design a whole line for her. Cute, cute, cute. 

But, back to singing. This was actually one of my favorite Iraheta performances. My only criticism is that she built up the intensity too soon, then left the pot on the stove so it overboiled. (aka overdone). Take a cue from Gokey and Macintyre: soft - loud - really loud - climax - soft.

05 — Scott Macintyre — Just the Way You Are — 5 stars

Extremely impressive. Not only did Macintyre's beautiful voice make me melt, his arrangement actually made Billy Joel's 1977 song sound contemporary by adding minor keys and a jazz rhythm. This song was more than a performance. It was an artistic composition -- a painting made of sound. Wow!

06 — Matt Giraud — You Found Me — 5 stars

This is a great example of why performers should sing the songs they want to sing, not what they think will win them "the big prize" at the end.  Giraud picked this particular song by the Fray because he believed in the spiritual lyrics and could sing them with conviction and emotion. It was fabulous. I loved it!

Sadly, the judges didn't appreciate Giraud picking what Simon Cowell called, "not a good commercial song." Randy Jackson criticized Giraud for not singing his usual R&B and felt he wasn't as good at "rockin' out."  Judge Kara Dioguardi said it well, "At some point, you're going to have to commit." 

Well, maybe Giraud should commit to contemporary Christian rock music. Hey, I'd buy it!

07 — Lil Rounds — I Surrender — 2 stars

This song is a good example of why contestants should ignore the judges when picking their song each week. Rounds tried so hard to please the judges and the result was a bit of a train wreck. She can sing, yes, but the song didn't fit her powerhouse vocals very well. (Plus, it sounded a bit pitchy).

08 — Adam Lambert — Play That Funky Music — 4 stars

Lambert gets points for cool. Not only does he look like Elvis (especially with his hair up), he's just as cocky. The boys' got guts.

09 — Kris Allen — Ain't No Sunshine — 5 stars

Absolutely incredible. Wow! Wow! Wow!

Idol's Sarver on Regis and Kelly

Last week, Michael Sarver was voted off American Idol after not cutting the mustard during "Motown" week. He is now strutting his stuff all over tarnation on all the big, national talk shows, performing to his best, so noone will forget him.

Big surprise! Not good at Motown? It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure this out.

So, whyyyye...would this rugged, oil-rigger, red neck country boy from Jasper, TX perform a Josh Groban-esque ballad, "You're not alone," or something, on the Regis and Kelly show today?

Who picked out this song for him? What a big honkin' disaster!

Does this look like the face of a ballad singer? Heck, no. Sarver, you need to lean on your shovel a bit to figure out what you're gonna be. Then, git off the hog and go sing country! Woo hoo!

On a side note -- Don't the 'Final 10' American Idol contestants have the absolute best harmonies of any of the other Final 10 in Idol history? I might actually have to buy a ticket to see them when they make their "after the season" rounds. Usually, they sound like a bunch of prima donnas competing to be heard, clashing, and running over eachother like a Mac truck! What a great group!

American Idol — I'll miss Alexis Grace

The Idol contestants are now down to ten who will not only compete next Tuesday, but also hit the road together in a pseudo-Broadway musical performance after the season ends.

Alexis Grace missed the cut by being eliminated tonight. In my opinion, it's her gain. Her beautiful clear vocals obviously lack the power of some of the other contestants, but I like the sound of her voice better because of it. Some of my favorite female vocalists: Dido, Bjork, Olivia Newton-John, to name a few, all have the same pleasant, light and airy tone in their voices that Grace has.

I look forward to see what interesting music tracks Grace will create for us in the coming months, now that she is completely free of all of her Idol obligations. Go get ’em, girl!

American Idol

Today’s American Idol featured songs from the Grand Ole Opry and 11 contestants performed. As usual, I did not agree with the judges. I like to pick my favorites based on how they sound, since I might someday want to buy their CDs (and I do actually buy CDs).  

Of note, in order of performance:

01 — Michael Sarver — Ain’t Goin’ Down ‘Til the Sun Comes Up — 5 Stars

For anyone who’s ever tried to sing a super fast song with dense lyrics, this was a rare feat.  For example, I’ve been practicing Reba McEntire’s version of “Fancy” for weeks now, but still don’t feel comfortable enough to sing it in public. Not only did Sarver remember all the words, he delivered them with a relaxed, pleasant manner, complete with an appropriate subtle country tone. 

I completely disagree with new judge, Kara DioGuardi, who didn’t like his performance. DioGuardi seems to prefer the “lookers” no matter how good they sound. However, looks don’t sell records to anyone but teeny boppers. Good vocals do.

Of all my favorites tonight, I feel Sarver has the largest chance of getting the axe. First, he had the “01” starting position. With 11 contestants, it’s easy to forget him by the end of the show. Second, the judges didn’t like him. If he’s voted off, he needn’t worry. Michael Sarver will easily have a successful career in country music.

05 — Adam Lambert — Ring of Fire — 4 stars

I usually don't like Lambert, but this time, he won me over. His eerie, controlled vocals on Ring of Fire reminded me Queen’s Freddie Mercury. Kudos, also, for letting us know that this Middle Eastern version wasn’t his idea, but he was borrowing it, unlike David Cook last year who seemed to take credit for unique versions he’d found on YouTube.

07 — Alexis Grace — Jolene — 3 stars

Grace’s rendition of Dolly Parton’s Jolene was lovely, although rushed, as she attempted to sing as much of the song as possible in the incredibly short time frame. Sometimes, you have to edit. Perhaps Grace didn’t feel comfortable butchering the song. I give her credit for the slower version she sang in rehearsal, which I think was much better.

08 — Danny Gokey — Jesus Take the Wheel — 5 stars

Gokey is my favorite Idol contestant this season and his performance didn’t let me down. His raspy voice adds character to any song. His singing is completely effortless, whether he’s coming on strong or soft, high or low. Incredible!

09 — Anoop Desai — Always On My Mind — 5 stars

While other contestants sounded sappy, Desai’s voice sounded romantic and emotional. He gives Julio Iglesias, Jr., a run for his money!