American Idol Blog

Fox chairman, Peter Rice announced today that Kara DioGuardi is not returning to American Idol this season as a judge. Along with the resignation of Ellen DeGeneres – that leaves us with Randy Jackson as a judge and Nigel Lythgoe returning as a producer.

Rice refused to confirm any speculation about replacements for the judges. “There’s been tremendous speculation, some accurate and some wildly inaccurate,” Rice says. But “I’m not going to get into the fishbowl of a blow-by-blow account of that casting. We start auditions with the judges in mid-September and certainly plan to have judges in place by then.”

Rumors have swirled that Jennifer Lopez, Stephen Tyler, Harry Connick Jr., Chris Isaak, Elton John, Justin Timberlake, Jessica Simpson, and others are potential replacements. I’m not sure how I feel about any of the above named candidates – except that no matter who they choose, the chemistry has to be great between the judges, and they have to connect with the audience as well as the contestants. It will be interesting to see who they select. I loved that Howie Mandel replaced David Hasselhoff on America’s Got Talent – and would hope they could find someone with humor as well as someone with the bite of a Simon Cowell. I don’t envy the casting crew on this one.

Related articles by Zemanta

• Kara DioGuardi Fired From American Idol! (perezhilton.com)
• Kara DioGuardi FIRED: Off ‘American Idol’ (huffingtonpost.com)

Ellen DeGeneres has announced on her website: “A couple months ago, I let FOX and the “American Idol” producers know that this didn’t feel like the right fit for me. I told them I wouldn’t leave them in a bind and that I would hold off on doing anything until they were able to figure out where they wanted to take the panel next.”

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“It was a difficult decision to make, but my work schedule became more than I bargained for. I also realized this season that while I love discovering, supporting and nurturing young talent, it was hard for me to judge people and sometimes hurt their feelings. I loved the experience working on “Idol” and I am very grateful for the year I had. I am a huge fan of the show and will continue to be.”

Ellen will be missed as a judge – but we look forward to seeing contestants on her show and her continued support of great up and coming talent!

Related articles by Zemanta

• Ellen Quits American Idol!!!! (perezhilton.com)
• DeGeneres out at ‘American Idol’ (washingtonpost.com)

Well, it looks like my online informal poll which predicted Crystal Bowersox as the American Idol winner this season was wrong – Lee DeWyze was announced as the formal winner – and fond farewells were bid to Simon Cowell.

I predict Simon’s new show (American version of “X Factor” will be a huge hit as American Idol flounders. There is just something about Simon – that makes you anxiously await whatever comes out of his mouth. Is he going to be mean? Is he actually going to give a compliment? What is Simon’s response? The other judges don’t really carry much weight in their comments sorry to say. It will be interesting to see what comes of American Idol and who tries to fill Simon’s shoes on the judging panel. I wonder if they will shake everything up dramatically or just add another judge? Well, I suppose I’ll just have to wait.

I do have to say that I am happy Lee DeWyze won this year – even though he was not the best singer of the group – I like his humble attitude, his personality (at least what we saw), that he was an underdog and had made mistakes in his past and was getting a break in his life. I love the tone of his voice and can’t wait to see how his career takes off. I’m confident Crystal will also have a hugely successful career as she’s totally unique and incredibly talented – and now has an amazing fan base.

Thanks everyone for tuning in.

American Idol voters are busy picking up the phone voting for their favorite to win the overall competition. Who will it be? Crystal Bowersox or Lee DeWyze?

Who do you think will win? Vote now!

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And are you going to miss Simon Cowell? This is his final week on American Idol … do you think the show will survive without him?

… to another contestant.

Who is the American Idol who was sent home tonight? If you guessed Texan Casey James… you were right. After a nice evening showcasing highlights of home-town visits, one time fan favorite Casey James was eliminated from the competition.

I don’t think his elimination would have come as a surprise to many, but I did wonder if Texas would pull him through with their overwhelming support.

But now on to the finale next week…
Who are you voting for?

At this point I think both Crystal Bowersox and Lee DeWyze deserve to win and I do have mixed feelings about who I want to win. I like Lee the best – but I also think that the winner is tied up for a whole year doing press and whatever the American Idol conglomeration wants them to do – whereas the runner-up is free to sign a record deal and get in the studio. I also think the runner-up typically has more say in what type of album they put out. However… both Lee and Crystal are clearly defined and also I think have strong enough artistry that either one will do great … “win or win second.”

I guess I’ll wait until next week to determine who I’ll vote for. Right now I’m still leaning toward Lee – simply for the fact that I would love him to have the win – in order to prove to himself that he has what it takes and America loves him.

With the 2010 season of American Idol having so many ups and downs, and even losing in the ratings to “Dancing with the Stars” – it brings up the question – will American Idol survive another season? — Especially without Simon Cowell?

I think the announcement of who will be replacing Simon will either make or break the future of the show.

But now on to tonight’s performances. Who do you think will win American Idol this season?

Let’s begin with Casey James – he sang “It’s alright with me”. Ah, not a great choice. Kind of a one sentence, one grove song without a big moment, without that emotional showcase, and really without much excitement. I think Casey came out of the gate as a fan favorite, but as the season has progressed he seems to have floundered and lost a bit of his confidence and coolness. I think once he was in the bottom two that was the turning point for him and he hasn’t quite gotten it back. But … with that being said, he has a big enough fan base that even if he doesn’t make it into the top 2 – he will do fine and I expect to see an album fairly quickly from him. The judges agreed and said he needed to “blow us away”, but it didn’t do that. Simon said “that song will leave no lasting effect” and a “dud song choice, but you sounded good”. Comparing the song to a salad in a meal – hoping that something more substantial is coming – Simon was hoping that the next song Casey performs will be bigger and better.

Crystal Bowersox – I found out last night that Crystal is my brother’s favorite on the show – and when I commented that she’s super talented but seems to lack a little connection with the audience, his quick comeback was – “It’s because she has a direct connection with me.” Well, that explains it. So, he’s voting for her, and I’ll be voting for Lee – hopefully I’m a bigger fan than he is and Lee will come off victorious.

Crystal chose “Come to My Window” by Melissa Etheridge. Coming to the stage with both her guitar and harmonica, the audience and judges seemed to expect great things from Crystal tonight. But did she deliver? Getting off to a little bit of a rough start, and not really making it her own version, she did a respectable job of performing the popular song. The tone of her voice fit the song well, but it didn’t really allow her to shine either. The judges are looking for a winner – Randy didn’t love the arrangement, but he liked is that Crystal’s vocal was great and it worked for him in the end. Ellen agreed and thought it was the exact type of song she anticipating from Crystal. Kara said she struggled but it was a good vocal – hesitantly stating that Crystal is capable of having “a moment” and hopes she will get that tonight. Simon commented that she hasn’t compromised herself and has remained true to herself as an artist, calling it an “honest performance”.

And now on to Lee DeWyze. I love that when Ryan says Lee’s name – all the girls in the audience scream (that bodes well for his career). Singing “Simple Man” by Leonard Skinner – Lee commented that he always likes to pick a song that he relates to because he feels that he can give a better performance that way. I loved the way the song fit Lee’s voice perfectly and seemed to bring out a bit more raspyness – I was hoping he would take it really big at the end and do something outrageous, but he kept it a little mellow and cool. I liked it though. Randy said it was a great song choice and he could see Lee doing that on an album. Both Randy and Ellen said he is confident and they loved it. Kara – “What you did tonight is what every contestant needs to do. In my opinion – round one goes to Lee”. Simon said the song choices during the evening had been “Okay” but Lee’s song choice was “on the money” and “I don’t think you won round one, I think you crushed it!” (Yeah – that sounds good for Lee – I just hope all his fans don’t take it for granted.

Now on to the judge choices for songs:

Casey James sang “Daughters” by John Mayer selected by Randy and Kara. The song didn’t work for me – the reason it works for John Mayer is because his voice is so unique and it fits his style completely. But instead of mixing it up, Casey sang it straight and it was a bit boring for me – nothing that was a “wow” moment. But Randy said the song “fit him like a glove”. Ellen thought it was beautiful. Kara said the song showed the more artistic side of him and complimented herself for picking the song. Simon said it was a much better song choice, but it was a bit of a lazy arrangement – the climax was quite limp and he held Kara and Randy responsible for not providing him a vocal climax. Kara, of course, was very defensive. But, Simon continued that the song didn’t have a “Wow moment” – he was right – but Kara jumped right back in that “it’s because that’s the way that song was written”. Hmm.. I think a bit of skewed thought there from Kara – as she’s typically the one telling contestants that they need to bring it up a notch, have a “moment”, etc. But obviously she helped pick the song, so it couldn’t have been the wrong choice. (insert sarcastic smirk here).

Ellen DeGeneres chose the song for Crystal Bowersox. I was interested in seeing what she chose and if it would really allow Crystal to shine. “Maybe I’m Amazed” by Paul McCartney. Hmm. Interesting choice. I only thought the song phrase “maybe I’m a man…” were a little awkward and it didn’t seem that Crystal was loving the song, but she did a good job and it was certainly different than her typical song. Randy “Great song, Great vocals, and we’ve got somebody else in it to win it!” Ellen “You did it. I couldn’t have asked for more.” Kara “you really showed parts of your voice that I don’t think we’ve heard until tonight – you did a lot of risky things tonight and I think it paid off.” Simon, “I must admit that when I heard the song choice, I was a bit surprised. But now I get it…. you’ve got soul… after that, you may be thanking Ellen next week for putting you in the final.”

I have to admit I was happy that Simon chose a song for Lee – and excited to hear what the choice was – with the hopes that it would be a “wow” song. “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen. Simon said he thinks Lee will do the song and have a “moment” – “This is his night”. Lee began to sing and I got chills – I would absolutely buy this. Excellent choice, and even having the gospel choir join in seemed to work. Even with a couple bad notes, I still loved it and the depth he gave the song. My predicted winner of the night as well as the competition. The crowd just kept cheering and cheering on and on and on. Randy “I’ve been waiting all season to see who is going to throw down the gauntlet – (Simon) set you up, that was the biggest moment, that was unbelievable”. Lee thanked Simon for choosing the song even though he was a little scared about it. Ellen said “there is nothing more to be said – that was stunning”. Kara “Lee, you are what this show is all about – incredible epic moment… you just owned the entire night.” Simon “I’m very, very, very proud of you… before this show, you were working at a store, and looking for a break… you’ve proved that you are a fantastic singer, a great person…” Lee seemed so overwhelmed. I love that someone like him can finally have his time in the sun. I hope he keeps his humility because that’s what I like the best about him.

And on to the voting…

If anyone wants to help me beat my brother… VOTE FOR LEE!

Which of the American Idol contestants will get the home-town visits this week?

Well, instead of giving us hints, the evening began with a song by former Idol winner Fantasia. She’s been out of the major spotlight for the past few years, popping up now and then, but with a new album release, obviously we needed to get a plug for the merchandising. I liked that she was back to “normal” and not quite so out there as her last performance on the show last season.

But back to the countdown. I think the home town visits make a big difference for fans in selecting their favorites for American Idol – as we get to see a new side of the contestants that make them feel a little more “real” than just what we get typically on the weekly American Idol show. I think the one that would make the biggest difference is to see at home would be Crystal Bowersox – to get a more personal side of her hopefully. But are we going to get to see her at home?

With Casey James being sent to safety first, I have to say I wondered a bit about who would be going home – predicting Michael Lynche at this point.

But again, we have to wait – for Daughtry to perform. (I know I should be referring to the “group” Daughtry – but since I only know Chris Daughtry – I’ll just write about him). I have to say that I have 2 of his albums and really like his music – even though he wasn’t my favorite contestant on American Idol when he was competing and his vibrato is toned down on the albums which I like better than live. But I think he is really talented and shows that a contestant doesn’t need to win the competition to get a jump start to big careers. In fact, I think some who have come in second, third, or even fourth, have done better than previous Idol winners.

I’m just anxious to know who else is staying in the competition, but again, we’re forced to wait for commercials. Dang it. I’m so impatient. This is why I rarely watch live TV – because I can’t fast forward. But, alas, I’ll wait (since I don’t really have any other choice.) Oh, I’ll go get some ice cream during the commercials. Nice.

After reviewing each contestants’ performance, Ryan says “Mike (pause) hang tight.” Moving on to Lee, Ryan continues with “Lee (pause), Lee is headed back to Chicago.” Pause. Um, we could take that either way… that he’s going home because he’s eliminated, or that he’s going home for the hometown visit. Whew. Thank goodness it meant that he’s staying in the competition.

So now it’s down to Michael Lynche and Crystal Bowersox as the one who will be going home. But now more commericals. (and side note from commercials – I’m very excited for “So You Think You Can Dance” this summer – it’s actually my favorite show – even more than American Idol.) And another note to Carl’s Jr. – please quit making commercials where people are chewing really loud and making smacking noises. I have to mute the channel and would have totally fast forwarded because of it… and actually – I refuse to eat at Carl’s Jr because of those commercials – I’m just sayin’…

But back to the main point of the show… which of the American Idol contestants are sticking around? Ugh. Putting that on hold again for another interruption.

But for a performance by Bon Jovi (first popular when I was in high school – boy that dates me huh) – still as good as ever. I love that it never looks like they are trying – it just comes so naturally and they are having fun.

Now I’m hoping and hoping that they’ll just announce who is going home so I can get on with my night. But no – another break for commercials (and I still want an iPad for my birthday everyone – hint hint – my birthday is coming up next week…) send money to … (okay just kidding, but really and truly I want one.) And now I want to see Karate Kid. But I could do without the bra ads. Hmm. now you get my random musings while I’m watching TV. LOL I’m sure you’re totally interested.

Saved by the announcement: American Idol’s top 3 includes… Crystal Bowersox, Lee DeWyze and Casey James. Which means Michael Lynche is eliminated. Sad because I really like him but I think he’ll do fine and make a great career in music. Good luck Michael!

And now I’m signing off. Love to all and good luck to Crystal, Lee, and Casey at home.

Who did the best tonight on American Idol? Well, that’s up for debate as each of us have our own favorite contestant. But it seems that any of the top 4 could win the competition this year as they each are strong in their own way.

Who remains? Crystal Bowersox, Michael Lynche, Casey James, and Lee DeWyze.

Tonight’s theme was “Songs from the Movies” with Jamie Foxx as the mentor. I was excited to hear Jamie’s feedback for this season’s contestants. He’s got such a wide range of talents and could easily provide great mentoring.

Lee DeWyze began the evening with “Kiss from a Rose” – Jamie Foxx got right up in Lee’s face as he was preparing – to force him to the next level of performance. I wanted so much to love Lee’s rendition tonight but it just didn’t make me leap up cheering. I love his voice the most, but the song wasn’t my favorite tonight. The song didn’t work for Randy or Simon either. Kara’s comments about the song being very difficult to sing, and he got lost a bit. Simon even commented that he was trying too hard to sound like the original and it verged on karaoke.

Up next was Michael Lynche singing “Will You Be There”. Boy that guy can sing! I was worried about anyone singing a Michael Jackson song but I think he made it his own and I loved it. It seemed like the crowd loved it too. Randy didn’t love the song choice for him – mentioning that he should have chosen an R&B song. Ellen said he was a little predictable but he’s consistently good. Kara was ready for “Woman’s Work” and “Love” – songs that she had goosebumps. Simon said it didn’t make sense and he was confused – but Michael gave it 100%.

Duet by Crystal Bowersox and Lee DeWyze – both with guitars – “Falling Slowly”. I really liked it except for one note that I thought Crystal screamed, but overall I liked the harmonizing between their voices. It’s actually nice to have the variety of a duet. The judges loved it as well. Kara even said it was one of her favorite moments of the entire season. Simon called it a “fantastic” song.

Casey James singing “Mrs. Robinson”. Surprising song choice in my opinion – it’s a mellow song and not one that most people would jump up for… so I’m interested in hearing your opinion about the choice. I was hoping for a rockin’ country song from Casey. But I got a little bored actually. Randy “I don’t know that I was jumping up and down”. Ellen wished they would have given him a “big boy guitar” – as he was playing a very small guitar (it sounded like a ukulele to me). Kara said he was vulnerable and fighting to stay in the competition. She liked the choice. Simon and Randy asked what the song was about (an older woman seducing a younger guy – Kara pointing to herself as the older woman and pointing to Casey as the younger guy), followed by some inappropriate comments from the judges about the content of the song. Simon didn’t think the song had the substance required, “it was a little bit lazy” and he thinks Casey could have made more of an impact. Simon’s comment that there have been strange song choices tonight was my thought exactly.

Crystal Bowersox sang a song from “Caddy Shack” – “I’m alright” by Kenny Loggins. Jamie told her to make the song not just a song but make it a “testimony”. I think it was my favorite song of the night. I think she could make the song popular again and her voice tone fit the attitude of the song really well. I still wish she had some more “interaction” between her and the audience as I still feel like there is a barrier between her and those listening – but she was the best solo of the night by far. Randy said Crystal is a true artist, but it wasn’t his favorite performance but she switched it up. Ellen said it was “crystalized” and “made the song better” than the original. Kara agreed that she’s an artist. Simon’s comment was that Crystal was “back in the game.”

The final duet was between Michael Lynche and Casey James – performing “Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman”. I loved Casey playing the guitar – it seems to make a difference with his confidence and comfort level on stage. I didn’t know that Michael played the guitar as well – but it was nice to see. I liked the song and thought both guys did a good job. Randy said the song was brilliant. Ellen said “Yes, I have Loved a Woman”… awkward but funny. Even Simon burst out laughing. Kara said the duets tonight were great and better than any of the solos. Simon agreed that the duets were great.

I was left wanting much more tonight. Nobody did a terrible job. But no song stood out as memorable… even thinking back to a few minutes ago thinking that Crystal did the best job tonight – I can’t really remember much of the performance itself. I think perhaps there wasn’t strong emotion attached to any of the songs. At this stage, I just want to be inspired to leap up and cheer, or be brought to tears or have chills — something that makes me say “WOW!” and want to tell someone that they HAVE to listen to that performance. But nothing really did that for me. Perhaps it’s because they are all really talented and my expectations are so high. What about you? Were you left wanting more? or did you have an absolute favorite performance from tonight?

Wouldn’t life be great if every single person had a room full of people cheering them on… everyone deserves this kind of support in their life!

It looks like the poor performance of Casey James on last night’s American Idol drove his fans to the phone in hopes of saving the singer. And they were successful, because Casey (who has been in the bottom 3 the past 2 weeks in a row) was sent to safety and not even in the bottom two.

Unfortunately for young contestant Aaron Kelly – for that put him and Michael Lynche at risk and Aaron was ultimately sent packing. It’s not that I think America got it wrong … I’ve actually thought Aaron should go home quite a few times… I just hate it when I predict wrong and based on last night’s performances I truly thought Casey would go home.

Oh well… I think the top 4 is a good, strong group and probably the best of the top 20 contestants.

Was anyone else surprised at the elimination this week?

I loved Harry Connick Jr.’s performance – he’s amazing! Would love to see him back again and I’m excited for music next week from soundtracks along with Jamie Fox as the mentor. But I don’t get it about Lady Gaga – she’s just WAY too out there for me. I think she has a nice voice, but it’s all of the “extras” that are completely distracting and strange – a bit disturbing as well. But obviously she’s popular … maybe because she’s such an anomaly.