American Idol Blog

I’m not sure why Miley Cyrus was brought in as a “mentor” for American Idol contestants. Perhaps the thrill of meeting a star and getting a younger skewed audience for tonight’s show was the reason producers brought Miley on board. However, she did not seem to mentor or give much advice. In my opinion the contestants really need someone to mentor them — to teach them, guide them, help them with song choice, help them build confidence and give tips about performing. I wondered if Miley had a movie or something coming out that she was going to pitch during the show (she does have a movie coming out)… but it wasn’t pushed onto American Idol fans.

My take tonight was a bit similar to the judges – I’m wondering where huge talent is  this season. Many are still struggling with determining who they are or who they want to be as an artist. Many are also in need of experience and refining. Some have truly improved, and a few have seemed like stars from the beginning – but there is something strange about this season of American Idol. Maybe Paula Abdul’s absence is having more effect than anticipated … perhaps Paula’s input during auditions and Hollywood has been more vital than we imagined… or maybe her cheering on the contestants brought out the best in them…

Anyway, I’m predicting the top 5 contestants: Michael Lynche, Lee DeWyze, Crystal Bowersox, Casey James, and Siobhan Mangus.

Michael Lynche is already a star to me – I think his performance could have been showcased at the Grammys – he just feels polished.

Crystal Bowersox is amazingly talented. I do agree with Ellen that I hope she can break down whatever barrier is between her and the audience – so we get some connection. That’s the only thing that will hurt her at this point – is distance from fans. She was the best of the night and in a completely different class than some of the others.

Siobhan Mangus – that girl can sing. I love her uniqueness. She is certainly different and I think she could pull off a win if she continues to do well.

Of course Lee DeWyze has the coolest voice of them all. I love the tone and grit in his voice. He does need more experience in performing and song selection – and determining exactly who he is going to be as an artist (I picture Snow Patrol, Daughtry, David Cook type stuff for him).

Casey James – again he’s really talented and I like that he seems confident when he performs. I could easily see him making an album and doing well. Tonight he wasn’t really original in his song but I enjoyed it anyway.

As for who is going home: Please let it be Paige Miles. She’s just out of her league with the others and hasn’t seemed to improve at all – tonight was just painful for all of us. Katie Stevens is improving in her song choice but didn’t blow me away. Andrew Garcia didn’t really have a wow moment and I’m afraid his early fans will jump ship and vote for some of the other contestants who are shining more. Aaron Kelly is getting better. His young tweeny boppers will certainly keep voting for him, even though I thought the song was too big for him. And Tim Urban could do a duet with Miley Cyrus at some point in the future if he can gain the experience he needs so desperately. Didi Benami did pretty good but I find myself tuning out when she performs.

It must be frustrating for the judges this season of American Idol … and they say it week after week… where are the contestants truly FIGHTING for the title? Where is the PASSION? Where is the INTENSITY?

I’m just saying…