“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.

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.

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!

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 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?

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.

I loved Lee DeWyze and Michael Lynche this week (as always). Crystal Bowersox was good (as always)… and Aaron Kelly … well, just say everyone seems to like him but he’s just not the best out there right now (I think with time/age/experience he will still do well in a music career.)

I was so happy that Harry Connick Jr. actually “mentored” the contestants – giving them feedback and true guidance, and not only that – actually provided the arrangements of the Frank Sinatra songs – as well as performed with the band. It was also quite fun to see his close friend Ellen DeGeneres giving him a hard time… “I thought the piano was a bit pitchy”. That kind of banter and good-humor is priceless on a show like American Idol. At this stage, the mentoring and guidance provided was needed – but a few of the performances fell flat – not feeling like they were actually “competing to win”.

My niece watched for the first time this season and said she’d certainly buy an album from Crystal Bowersox as her voice was incredible (but felt absolutely zero connection with her… which is what I’ve said most of the season). She loved Lee DeWyze (“There’s just something about him that you can’t help but like”), and Michael Lynche (“His voice is so smooth and his eyes twinkle”.) She thought Aaron struggled and his voice strained, and poor Casey (I made her promise to go and listen to his earlier performances where he did much better).

Anyway, who do you think is going home this week?

NOTE: Spoiler alert… do not continue reading if you don’t want to know who was eliminated this week on American Idol.

But then our “oh so sneaky host” Ryan – pulled Siobhan from her position and walked her towards the couches, but before reaching the couch… he dropped her off to stand next to Casey. Then shockingly announced the bottom three as Michael Lynche, Casey James and Siobhan Magnus… sending the others to safety.

Guest artists were abundant on American Idol this week and included performances by Lady Antebellum (rumor has it that the lead singer of Lady Antebellum tried out twice for American Idol and was deemed not good enough to continue on… bet the producers are kicking themselves now huh), Rascal Flatts, another group who will be touring with Carrie Underwood (who were actually quite good), a duet by Rascal Flatts and Shikira, and guest spots with Antonio Banderas and Cameron Diaz (promoting the new Shrek movie coming out in May).

Now on to the bottom three: Siobhan Magnus, Casey James, and Michael Lynche…. Michael Lynche was sent back to safety leaving only Casey and Siobhan at risk.

Leaving the American Idol competition tonight… is…

Siobhan Magnus

Sad for her, but I think it was the right call by America.

Harry Connick Jr. will mentor American Idol Contestants next week with the songs of Frank Sinatra.. Actually I’m very excited about next week — I think there is tons of potential for greatness with the combination of a great mentor and amazing songs. It will be fun to see if those remaining in the competition can make the songs their own.

Were you sad or surprised at the elimination this week?

Lee DeWyze began the evening by performing “You’re Still the One”. I thought the performance was pretty good but a bit pitchy in places – however the crowd seemed to love it, along with most of the judges – however Kara interrupted Simon as he was critiquing the performance so we were left without truly knowing what our favorite judge thought. It wasn’t one of my favorite performances by Lee but I still love him and think he has a great career ahead of him. It’s fun to see his confidence coming out more and him actually smiling as he’s learning to have more fun with the process.

Michael Lynche followed with a beautiful rendition of “It Only Hurts When I’m Breathing”. I loved it! He made it his own. Ellen even compared him to Luther Vandross and Simon agreed with the comparison.

Casey James performed “Don’t” with his acoustic guitar. Shania commented that Casey seemed to be lacking some of his former confidence (and perhaps his trip to the bottom three last week made him rethink things and put more into his performance this week). I loved the performance and Casey seemed a bit more connected to the song, more emotional than in previous weeks. It was probably my favorite performance that Casey has done to date. Randy said it was Casey’s best performance. Ellen commented “this is where you belong”. Kara gushed. And Simon agreed with Randy about it being Casey’s best performance so far. Simon also said that last week was a wake up call and Casey agreed that he reviewed all of his previous week’s and felt that he wanted to show something more of himself. Simon’s final comment about the song “didn’t feel like someone else’s song” was absolutely right on.

Crystal Bowersox sang “No One Needs to Know” (as a hint to her boyfriend about wanting the “white dress” etc)… not very subtle… but she did a good job. It was not my favorite of her performances and I thought it ended up being a bit flat in dynamics. All of the judges agreed that Crystal is always good but no one loved the performance. Simon said it was forgettable, and there was no conviction in the song. Crystal seems to be a different person than when the competition began – she’s got much more confidence and seems more open and friendly rather than being wrapped up in her own thoughts – so that’s been refreshing to see. But again, not my favorite of her performances.

Aaron Kelly performed “You’ve Got A Way” – telling the audience at the end that he was singing it for his mother (sweet)… which will likely touch the hearts of all the mother’s out there and perhaps get him some additional votes. I actually thought it was kind of boring and wanted to fast forward to the end. And was truly surprised that the judges liked it. Randy said he did a really good job. Ellen said she was really impressed – especially that he was only 16 – but when Aaron corrected her and said he was 17 now – she jokingly said “Nevermind, then I’m not that impressed.” She went on to compliment his depth and maturity. Kara said that Aaron really “felt the words”. Simon commented that Aaron had seemed a little lost the last couple of weeks – struggled – but “tonight you were like a different artist”, and “this is the kind of record you should make”. He also said the performance was “believable”. I don’t know – I just didn’t agree with the judges tonight on that one.

Siobhan Magnus sang “Any Man of Mine” and I have to admit I was a bit scared for her – it’s such a huge song, so well-known, and has to have such attitude to pull it off that I worried if she could do it. Ohhh… so sad… I have to say I am just not a fan of Siobhan anymore. I’ve tried and tried to give her the benefit of the doubt each week – and felt at the beginning of the competition she had spunk and such potential – but the past 3 or 4 weeks I have been very disappointed and this week was just painful for me. I thought she felt hesitant and awkward until the end when she belted out her trademarked scream which didn’t really fit the song. She could hit the big notes, but the rest of the song suffered. A couple of quick camera shots to Shania Twain seemed to confirm my opinion that it just didn’t work. Shania politely clapped but almost with a pained look on her face. I was shaking my head at the gushing from the judges though – wondering if they are trying to keep the “vote for the worst” gang guessing about who was the worst this week or something. Simon did comment that perhaps the screaming at the end was a bit much and said “it was almost like you were giving birth at the end..” – but Randy overpowered his objections with the love from “the dawg” shouting out that it was great. So I have to say judges – I think you were off tonight with the last 2 performances. I wonder if they would listen back if they would still give the same critiques. And I’m sorry to be so critical of Siobhan tonight – I really WANT to like her performances – because I think she’s a darling girl – but it just didn’t work for me tonight.

My guess is that Siobhan Magnus, and Aaron Kelly will be the bottom 2 and Aaron will be going home – unless the “vote for the worst” voters keep Siobhan going through. But with Casey James in the bottom last week – it’s a bit hard to call. Who do you predict will be going home?

Casey James – Alicia commented to Casey that he needed to really connect with the song “Don’t Stop” by Fleetwood Mac – a huge song – and she wanted people to say “I love him” not just “I love that song.” Casey began the night with high energy and a good solo on his electric guitar. I liked his slight twist on the song, and it was fun, but the overall performance didn’t blow me away – the judges seemed to agree that the song was good but not great. Comments were pretty harsh from the judges that there was no originality, “lazy song choice”, “zero inspiration”, and Kara even said it was frustrating that he made himself like everyone else.

Lee DeWyze – Lee performed “The Boxer” by Simon & Garfunkel. The words of the song are inspirational, and she suggested that he not lose sight of the meaning behind the song – and to pull people in to him. As Lee began singing I was a little concerned as it’s such an old fashioned song – but his tone seemed to bring the song into a more current feel for me. Obviously Lee is still one of my favorites and I hope he sticks around. But the song choice was not the best in my opinion – it just didn’t grab me like I had hoped – but I did like it. Randy said Lee “is a great artist, ready to make great music”. Ellen loved the song choice and that we are seeing better and better and more soul from Lee – even calling his song tonight his best performance. Kara said she thought Lee “had his moment” tonight – and showed clearly when someone connects to a song vs. when they don’t. Simon laughed and said “Even though we’re only 2 in, it was the best of the night.” Simon called it “sincere, emotional” and “you made it sound as if it was written a week ago – absolutely brilliant.” So with that feedback from the judges, I have a feeling Lee will be here next week. We even got some smiles out of him at the end of the judges feedback.

Tim Urban singing “Better Days” by the Goo Goo Dolls. Alicia Keys said the song “felt really good” on Tim – and it could be his own song. Getting a bit of a rocky start, I wasn’t certain if Tim could pull it off. I so wanted to like the performance because I like the song and thought Tim had potential – but he seemed a bit off key and not in the groove. Without truly shining, I’m afraid Tim will be at risk. Randy said it was “okay, good karaoke”. Ellen said Tim was “like the soup of the day”, and today she “didn’t like the soup”. Kara commented that it wasn’t his best performance and Simon found it difficult to buy into it – “it may have been a step too high for him” but it was “a little bit of a let-down”.

Aaron Kelly chose a song he has been singing since the age of 5. “I Believe I Can Fly”. Alicia’s suggestion was for him to really connect and not get intimidated by the bigness of the song. I thought Aaron was okay, but he didn’t really do anything to the song to make it his own. And it paled in comparison to the original and as he struggled to reach the big notes at the end, it felt pushed and a bit of a strain to me. The audience seemed to like his performance but the judges commented that he had “pure vocal talent” and Randy said he did a good job. Ellen brought in a bit of humor as she commented that “there was a time in the 70′s when I believed I could fly.” Kara – “you took off in the end”. Simon’s critique “in the real world, if we had heard that on the radio, I would have turned that off in 10 seconds. Because it wasn’t very good, but in the end it was pretty good.” The judges were in agreement that because Aaron is so liked – he made the song better. I’m not sure I agree with their critique and wonder if they watch it back if they would comment differently. What did you think? Did Aaron pull off such a big song?

Siobhan Magnus selected “When You Believe” performed by both Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston – a huge song. Alicia Keys told her to hit her “money spot” – taking advantage of the big notes that she could hit with a little pause subtly. Alicia was very impressed by Siobhan and her voice. I’m hopeful that we will be as well. As I listen, it just is not doing anything for me – I think Siobhan can really belt it out, but when she sings soft and slowly she sounds completely different (not great). I think she fell into the same trap as last week – sounding like two different people in one song. Randy said she picked the toughest song of the night, and it was just okay. Ellen disagreed with Randy. Kara said technically it may have been well sung, but she’s starting to feel like she’s want to hang out with Siobhan more than buy her records. Simon agreed with Randy that it wasn’t the right song choice, and a bit odd and all over the place. But Siobhan’s comment that she didn’t want to be scared away because of those who have sung it before, because she loves the song, and the meaning of the song is why she is on American Idol – and no one compares to Mariah and Whitney – she just loves the song… I think her response itself will get her some votes even from people who didn’t love the performance.

Michael Lynche – Michael put together a list of about 200 songs a few years ago with the hope that someday if he ever made it on American Idol – he would choose from that list of songs. “Hero” was his choice. Alicia wanted people to go crazy with him and take them on a ride with the song. I was glad he selected a song other than just a ballad – to get people excited about the music – even with the slow parts I thought he kept the energy up. Randy was worried about the song choice but said Michael worked it out. Ellen thought he did a great job. Kara said it wasn’t her favorite performance and the song became unrecognizable. Simon said he thought Mike sang it pretty well, but the theme for the evening is “inspirational” and the song didn’t quite gel.

Crystal Bowersox – For the first time of the season Crystal chose to perform without an instrument. Alicia said Crystal is very special and is one of her favorites. Performing “People Get Ready”, Alicia told her to focus on the emotion of the song and knows that people will love the performance. Beginning the song with no accompaniment worked well for Crystal. She proved that she can shine even without the comfort of her guitar. Breaking down into tears at the end of the song – “thanking the Lord”, Crystal showed also that she not only connects with the music, but also with the message of the song. Randy gave her a standing ovation. Ellen said she had never looked more beautiful and the song was beautiful. Kara thanked Crystal for taking a risk. And… that’s when the TiVo stopped. ARGH! But thank goodness I recorded GLEE after it on the same channel. Whew. Simon’s comment “That was inspirational. And I’m actually glad to see you emotional, you sang it fantastically and for me it was in a completely different class from everything we’ve heard tonight.”

I loved the comedic relief at the end of the judging for Crystal when she tried to take the handkerchief out of Ryan’s lapel pocket – it wouldn’t come, and Ryan said it was “taped” – he tugged on it and it did finally come out so Crystal could wipe away her tears – but her comment of “that’s Hollywood” and Ryan’s quick comeback of “that’s where we are” pushed away the tears and replaced them with laughter.

I predict Tim Urban will be going home tomorrow unless the “Vote for the Worst” group bands together to keep him on the show. (I just shake my head that people would spend their time doing that… but they do.) Or Aaron Kelly and Siobhan Magnus could both potentially be at risk. I love Michael Lynche but wonder where he will land in the scheme of things as he was safe last week and his fans may be complacent.

I will be shocked if Casey James, Lee DeWyze, or Crystal Bowersox are not safe. Warning to viewers for tomorrow night “Idol Gives Back” – they predict the show will go long, so if you are recording via DVR / TiVo – set your DVR to record accordingly so you don’t miss it and cuss them out at the end when you don’t get to see the results. (big grin… talkin’ to myself here.)