Scotty McCreery’s single “I Love You This Big” is available for download through iTunes.
You can also get Lauren Alaina’s “Like My Mother Does” at:
Which song do you like better?
The star-studded American Idol finale did not disappoint – with superstars like Tony Bennett, Tim McGraw, Beyonce, Jack Black, Gladys Knight, Tom Jones, Lady Gaga (who I think is just over the top strange and completely inappropriate – especially for a family show like American Idol), Carrie Underwood (who is what American Idol is about), Bono (straight from his show last night in Utah which I have to say I loved), Mark Anthony with J-Lo dancing, Steven Tyler’s final performance was crazy good – with stars like that – how could the show go wrong?
Well, I could have done without the “best of the worst” clips – and I wish they could teach the contestants to blend their voices when singing as a group instead of trying to out-sing each other (one of the things I like about The Voice). I also could have done without the half dressed man groping the half dressed Lady Gaga – but the rest of the show was great. I was reminded again why I love Casey James – he and James Durbin are so funny and I love their banter!
And now .. to our winner. Time was running down and I got nervous… would they go over again and my DVR miss announcing the winner?
Were you surprised?
Our new American Idol is… Scotty McCreery!
Congratulations Scotty – America Loves you! and Best Wishes to Lauren Alaina.
Will Scotty McCreery be our next American Idol or sweetheart Lauren Alaina?
Scotty can certainly sing – but will he bring in the pop votes?
Lauren sings country songs beautifully as well but she also merges into pop music. Lauren looks more like a star and Scotty has remained true to his simple country boy looks.
Typically the American Idol voters trend female and with the tween votes – I’m leaning towards Scotty as the winner. But after watching the show tonight I think Lauren could easily take the whole thing – her performances have improved tremendously since the beginning of the show and it’s fun to see her grow into more of a star.
Either way – I think both teenagers will go on and have a career in music – but if it will be short-lived or long-lasting will depend completely on the songs they put on their albums (if the songs connect with a mainstream audience), on their marketing teams, and if they remain true to their fans. I’ve seen so many complete on American Idol through the years that put out albums completely different from their American Idol persona – alienating their fans. I actually think these two have the potential to be long-lasting. However, I always worry a little more about young girls getting into the “star-making” machine – and losing their sweetness. The boys seem to have a better chance at surviving fame.
My hope is that both Scotty and Alaina will keep their strong family support, stay real, and move forward in their careers.
Which song did you like the most — “I Love You This Big”, Scotty’s first single if he wins or Lauren’s song “Like My Mother Does”?
I liked Scotty’s song – but it felt a little slow for a finale showstopper. And it’s so country – it might not help get him more votes (I personally like country music – but I know so many American Idol fans are not huge country fans – so I’m just not sure about either song as they were both country). I liked Lauren’s song and think it might help get the votes from all the mothers out there. Both songs were nice and I can imagine them both on the radio, but Lauren singing and hugging her mother while singing might have gotten her some extra votes.
From most of the polls I’ve conducted and from the polls I’ve seen – it seems that most people are predicting Scotty McCreery as the winner this year. He certainly could win it.
But – seeing Lauren’s growth – and having been wrong so many times this season – I’m going to take a risk and call Lauren as the overall winner this season.
Who do you think will win?
Quick statement about the judges – I liked the potential I saw in the judges at the beginning of the season but as time has gone on – it’s less like judging and more like gushing. It actually has gotten old and I hope they switch things up next season.
That’s all for me – now it’s your turn… what do you think?
I have to admit I haven’t watched last night’s American Idol yet, so I really cannot know who did well or who is likely to go home. But I learned today that Haley is the “Vote for the Worst” pick for this season. It’s too bad people mess with the whole system instead of allowing the best of the best to rise to the top. I’m also still sad that my favorites are gone so my motivation to watch have gone down a bit.
I like Scotty – like that he keeps his standards and is a good home-town boy. He’s also incredibly talented and can sing about anything. But for those who do not like country music – he won’t be their pick.
I like Lauren – she’s darling and has been growing on me. I love that her stylist has helped her look more mature and more like a star – that does make a difference. I still want more from her – but think she’ll go on to do well, whether she wins or not.
Haley is talented. There is no doubt about it. I just don’t get any emotionality from her performances – something that moves me is what I look for – but I have yet to get that from her. I’m still hopeful she’ll be the one to go home this week – especially if the only reason she is staying is the “vote for the worst” group keeping her around. Typically the contestant they select gets further than anyone can imagine but once we get down to this point, they don’t have the votes to keep them around. But I’ve been surprised again and again this season, so who knows.
My guess is Haley will go home. But I’ve been wrong week after week with her – so if she doesn’t go home, then I wish Lauren the best because I think it will be her that gets the boot.
With the final three left – did your favorite already go home? Who do you think will win? and who do you think will go home?
UPDATE: Finally, I’m happy with the results show tonight. It just rubs me the wrong way when contestants seem cocky – Haley’s response ‘I rocked it out,” well, let’s say I’m glad to vote for contestants who are humble, sincere, talented, and I think could be good role models for America’s youth.
It’s down to Scotty McCreery and Lauren Alaina – two sweet wholesome kids – I’ll be happy with either of them winning the title of American Idol! Good luck next week you two!
I usually don’t get so invested in contestants but boy, I was so sad to see James Durbin go home tonight. He’s such an easy guy to like and I love his story – what he’s overcome in his life – James I wish you the very best – I predict you’ll get a record deal this week or next and your album will come out before the winner of this season! Best of luck to you! You’re amazing!
Did anyone impress you tonight on American Idol? What did you think about Haley Reinhart arguing with Jennifer Lopez and Randy Jackson?
I like the fact that they allow contestants at this stage to perform 2 songs – it makes it easier to judge overall, and gives contestants a second chance if they choose a song that isn’t great for them or don’t shine in the first round.
But what did you think about the performances tonight?
I’m too tired to write a whole review of the night – but you’ve likely seen the show. Did Haley Reinhart impress you or are you ready to send her home? Was James Durbin too pitchy or can he do no wrong? Do you think Scotty McCreery could win the whole thing or is he too country? Is Lauren Alaina getting better each week or is she still need more confidence before going further in her career?
Obviously I have my favorites, but I didn’t watch the show until it was too late to vote – so my hope is America feels the same way as I do and picked up the phone!
I think Haley is going home because of arguing with the judges (and because she’s my least favorite) – Whenever someone argues back it does not come across well and I don’t think America will vote for her because of it. (I did like her second song and perhaps she redeemed herself, so I’m guessing here.)
What was your favorite and least favorite moment of the evening? (I personally liked Jennifer Lopez’ being in love with Scotty and feeling the emotion in his song… among other highlights.)
Did you think Lady Gaga was helpful for the contestants or did you think she was more of a gimmick for the show ratings? Wow she is a strange duck. Talented, yes. Good performance advice, yes. But boy she presents such a weird persona and dramatic flair – it works on the stage but I kind of wish she would have shown up for the contestants as a real person rather than only her persona.
As for the overall winner – it’s a toss-up for me at this point. I think Scotty and Lauren have the best voices (most pleasing and most commercial) of those left. But I think James has such a great story and a following he could still win the whole thing.
All three will certainly go on to have great careers and record deals – and I’ll be thrilled if any of those three take home the title. I’m actually thinking even though Lauren was in the bottom last week – she may win because she’s coming from behind and is growing more each week – she’s turning into America’s New Sweetheart. She’s darling. Scotty can also win as he keeps winning over America – showing his fun side but staying true to his values. I loved that! James and Scotty have had a following from the beginning. But I’m not placing any bets. Wow – I hate not being able to have a clear prediction!
Can you make a better prediction than me this week? Let me know what you think!
After watching American Idol tonight – I have to admit – I have a new favorite (at least from tonight’s performances). I didn’t think it could happen, but it did… can you guess who I think blew me away tonight?
Was it Jacob Lusk? Haley Reinhart? James Durbin? Scotty McCreery? or Lauren Alaina?
For Round One:
I actually didn’t love James Durbin’s song surprisingly. I thought there were too many pitch issues. I still like him but his first song didn’t do anything for me – except perhaps make me cringe a few times. Jacob Lusk also had a few issues with pitch but he has never been one of my favorites. I always like Scotty McCreery and he didn’t let me down – I loved his first selection – fun and full of energy. He is still a front-runner in my opinion. Haley Reinhart was still my least favorite. I’m not sure why I can’t connect to her. I just am ready for her to be gone. However after the criticism from the judges on her first song – she got a little teary-eyed and it actually made me feel sorry for her – it was the first hint of anything emotional for me. But after Lauren’s song – I think Lauren Alaina is “in it to win it” – and might just pull it off. She’s been growing on me and as her confidence gets stronger, I think she’s gaining momentum. She won the first round in my opinion.
Round Two:
James’ second song – the emotion in the lyrics of the song made James emotional and I thought it was a powerful moment – and I can’t imagine America not connecting to him there (even those who aren’t James’ fans). I could even forgive a few of the pitch problems when I saw the tears in his eyes and felt the powerful emotions come across as he was singing. Oh I love that kid – I want so much for him to be completely and totally successful! He is so real and has a huge heart – I love that. He’s still a favorite to win it for me.
I liked Jacob’s second song better than the first and thought that was a better direction for him to go.
Lauren Alaina’s second song “Unchained Melody” – well, it was not as good as round one for me. Although I thought she did a really nice job. It was just a little sleepy for me. I think if she could have switched it up a bit more maybe that would have worked better. I did think she looked beautiful – loved the more mature look – longer dress – it works for her well. But after her first song I still think she is a new favorite.
I really enjoyed Scotty’s second song, but do lean a little towards liking the non-ballad songs. The ballads just are too slow for me to want to sit and watch. I don’t think I’d feel that way if I was just listening on the radio – but there is something lacking in a slow song on TV – unless there is emotion connected to it. Although I did like it and the audience and judges did too.
And finally Haley Reinhart’s final song – she’s talented for sure – I just have a hard time liking the ton and timbre of her voice. It’s not pleasing to me. I find myself always want to fast-forward her performances even though she may sing better than some of the others – it’s not for me.
Now I think it’s between James Durbin, Scotty McCreery, and Lauren Alaina. I’m still leaning towards James because of the emotion he brings out. But I won’t be surprised if any of those three win this season on American Idol.
Did you get a new favorite tonight? Who are you ready to see go home?
I have to say I was a bit surprised that Haley Reinhart was not in the bottom three on American Idol tonight. But who ended up in the bottom?
“After the nationwide vote”… we didn’t get an official bottom three. Contestants were just sent to safety until there were two left on stage – Scotty McCreery and Casey Abrams. And then Casey Abrams was announced as the contestant going home. Wow. I was shocked. Not completely shocked because I did think he was at risk – but I was really surprised that it was him going home and not Jacob Lusk or Haley Reinhart.
Were you surprised? Or did you think it was time for Casey to go home?
Obviously I think that Casey will go on and have a great career – he is such a different kind of performer and has a huge fan base. I really like him – I’m not sure I’d buy an album from him, but it depends on what he includes in an album. I know a lot of people who will be really sad this week though.
American Idol is down to the top 6 contestants. How did your favorite perform tonight? I’m glad for TiVo because I’ve been gone all day – so my review tonight is a bit late – but here is how I would assess tonight’s performances.
Taking on the songs of Carole King – our Idol’s had a lot of great hits to choose from – but what did they pick?
We began with Jacob Lusk singing “Oh No Not My Baby”. Maybe I’m just tired but I just wish contestants would wear clothes that did not distract me – I mean, I just didn’t get the bright yellow shirt, with royal blue sweater vest, followed by a navy blue and white plaid suit jacket. And strange looking bow tie. Nope, I did not get it at all. Every time they came in for a close-up – I didn’t even see Jacob – I just saw this strange ensemble. Even Ryan seemed distracted as he attempted to straighten Jacob’s tie before the judges began their critique. Now I do actually think Jacob will be going home, not just for the outfit, but the performance was not my favorite. It was a lesser-known song and not one that resonated with me. There were a few iffy notes as well, but at least he did seem to have some of the joy back – which I had been missing for the past few weeks. Jennifer mentioned a few of the misses, but still complimented him. Steven and Randy both raved about him. I like that the judges are not brutal this season – but I do wish they would have a little more specific constructive feedback for the contestants. I think Jacob will have a great career on Broadway, but I just don’t see him going much further on American Idol.
Lauren Alaina selected “Where You Lead.” Lauren was surprised by a visit by Miley Cyrus. It was good to hear Miley’s advice to Lauren to not pay attention to any criticism given by America – as there will always be criticism. She just needs to focus on singing because she loves to sing. I look at Lauren as a young Carrie Underwood – and I look forward to her styling catching up with her vocals. She still hasn’t quite found the look that is flattering, grown-up, and star-quality. There was an awkward moment when she brought a guy from the audience up on stage and sang to him – it felt so awkward to me and distracted me from the song. But what I actually heard and paid attention to I thought sounded good. She’s a darling girl and I think America will be rooting for her to do well because she’s learning to overcome her fears and we want her to succeed. Now with that said – the whole season I have predicted a guy to win the overall season, but I’m coming to think that Lauren really has a shot at winning.
Scotty McCreery chose to sing “You’ve Got a Friend.” He began singing it in a higher, gentle, soft way that we haven’t heard from him before. I loved it. It made me see him in an even better light – that he has the capability to sing more tender songs and not just his typical deep country style. I actually liked that his facial expressions seemed a bit more genuine this week as well. I’ve always liked Scotty and hope he keeps going. I think he has a huge fan base and even if he doesn’t win the overall competition – I completely see him being successful in the industry.
James Durbin also chose a more tender song. “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow.” Okay – I can’t help it but every time James sings I have a smile on my face. Even if he has a few note issues, I still am drawn into his world and the joy he exudes when he’s performing. Yes, I have had a few negative comments from non-James fans – and I believe everyone has a right to their own opinion. But I simply like James. I like his personality – his wit – his smile – his enthusiasm – his confidence – his love and dedication to his family. And no, I don’t love some of the notes and some of the songs he chooses, and some of the rocker screaming he has done – but I can’t help it – I like James. The judges all loved him as well and Randy predicted James as the potential overall winner – even gave James a hug. I love seeing James coming from nothing – hearing his story – and watching him shine.
Casey Abrams selected “Hi-De-Ho.” As soon as I heard that Casey was going to sing this song, I felt that it fit him completely and was looking forward to hearing what he would do with it. It was not my favorite song choice, but I did like how he performed it. He has a tendency to choose songs that are a bit different, very stylized, not quite main-stream, and unique. But that’s Casey. I really like Casey. I hope he continues to do well and I think he is going to have a huge career ahead of him. But I am worried for him that he is so stylized he might lose some of the main-stream voters. However, this season has contestants that are so completely unique and different from each other – it’s a bit of a toss-up as to who will capture America’s heart.
And then Haley Reinhart sang “Beautiful.” Last week I was pleasantly surprised that I liked Haley’s performance – probably more than any other she had done. She does a good job but I still do not feel any type of emotional connection to her. I thought Haley sang the song well, but I did find myself getting a little bored. (Side Note: How can any performer wear such short skirts when they are up on a high stage – aren’t they worried that they will be flashing the audience?) The judges loved Haley and said she has one of the best voices in the competition. Just not my favorite.
The talent this season is truly better than any season in the past. I used to be able to make a clear prediction – it was easy. But this year there is a lot more guess work for me – as everyone is really talented and has their own unique style.
My prediction this week is that Jacob Lusk will go home. Haley Reinhart will be in the bottom three. And I’m guessing, but I think Casey Abrams might be in the bottom as well. Do you differ in your opinion?
Who do you think did the best this week?
Tonight I was discussing with a friend the status of American Idol and who we thought would go home and who would be in the bottom three. We were right on all counts – and although sad to see Stefano Langore go home – felt it was the right decision.
I loved that James Durbin actually had tears in his eyes, grabbed and hugged Stefano and it seemed they had become such good friends. I love that the contestants are pulling for each other – that there is teasing and joking and cheering going on.
And I have to just add that I’m very excited to see Bruno Mars next week on American Idol. He’s amazing and I always love listening to him. Until next week…
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