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.

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?

Kara mentioned to Casey that he did a great job, but she wanted more and for him to “show it all” (obviously meaning to showcase his vocal range more) – but Ryan made it extremely awkward by pointing out that Kara wasn’t meaning for him to “show it all” as indicated by her comments in the past. Ugh. Kara burst out “Are you kidding me? Are you kidding me?” and you could feel the tension. I think network officials should give a reminder that those comments are not only inappropriate and make the contestants feel uncomfortable, but also make audience members feel awkward – can you say “sexual harassment”? Poor Casey – he doesn’t really respond but it’s obvious to everyone that he’s wishing the focus was on his music. I think they are heading towards a lawsuit if they don’t knock it off.

Of course it could be much worse, and I’m not personally “offended” – but it is inappropriate behavior and with so many young and impressionable fans – should be stopped.

On to my reviews for the performances…

I loved that Usher was the mentor for this week – he not only gave great feedback and actual mentoring to contestants – he showed why he’s a superstar – genuine and connecting with the music as well as the audience. I love his personality – not a huge fan of his style of music – but he seems very nice as a person.

Siobhan Magnus seemed to struggle with her performance. I felt bad for her as the judges were very critical. Simon even called her performance “manslaughter”. That is harsh criticism. I like her and think she’s very talented, but she was not up to par tonight.

Casey James actually did a great job. His song choice fit his voice perfectly and he looked like he was having fun. I felt as though I was at a concert rather than watching an audition.

I love Michael Lynche. His voice is smooth and velvety and its always a pleasure to listen to him sing.

Didi Benami is at risk in my opinion. I felt bad for her that she followed the incredible Michael Lynche whose voice tone is so pleasing. The comparison was not kind to Didi – as her song choice wasn’t great and she seemed to falter a bit. The judges even commented that it kind of “flatlined” and she “lost her way.”

Tim Urban … what can I say? Judges were harsh and the criticism was well-deserved, but Tim took it all in stride with his smiles and even a bit of laughter. When it came time for Simon to judge his performance, he said, “It doesn’t matter what we say. It’s like a mouse taking on an elephant – you’re not going to win – but you’ll keep on smiling and people will vote for you… and we’ll see you next week… good job.” It was actually quite funny and perhaps a true – but it’s apparent that Tim should be pursuing a career where he can be adored by screaming young girls and not perhaps be focused on singing.

Andrew Garcia is back! He got some great advice from Usher about connecting to the audience – and he followed through. His performance was amazing and he showed us why we liked him so much in Hollywood. Andrew has been redeemed.

Katie Stevens. She is a cute girl – but I still felt that she hasn’t quite found her niche. The song was too big, or too old, or she didn’t have enough soul to be singing it. Something was just not quite “there” for me. Even though she did a pretty good job, I think she’s at risk this week.

Lee DeWyze – absolutely and completely my favorite performance of the whole night. I loved Usher’s counsel to Lee that he needs to believe in himself and realize that he deserves to be there. I love his voice and loved his song choice. Everything was awesome – I just wish I could buy the song right now – but have to wait a few days for it to be available. (Note: I went on iTunes to see if I could download the song – and discovered that Lee already has a couple of older albums out — pretty cool — so now I can listen to his older music while I wait for him to win “hopefully” and release a new album.)

Crystal Bowersox – Crystal’s big surprise was that she put away her guitar… and instead played the piano. She did a great job – but I don’t think it truly did the job it was supposed to – to get her to connect with the audience without something in the way… this week instead of the guitar in the way, she was now behind a huge piano – again with her eyes closed for most of the song. But she did get up and stand as well and that went pretty well – but it was apparent she was not as comfortable as she typically was when she had her guitar. She said she was comfortable, but I didn’t get that vibe. Nonetheless, she did a great job as always.

Aaron Kelly. Usually producers save the best performances for last – to end the competition on a high note. And after hearing Aaron Kelly’s rehearsal session with Usher, I had great hopes and high expectations. I was truly expecting him to shine, but was a bit disappointed as his voice felt tight and he didn’t really shine. I think he had the potential but either he was nervous or just having an off night.

Lee DeWyze, Michael Lynche, and Crystal Bowersox were the highlights for me tonight. Casey James, and Andrew Garcia also did great…

I think Didi Benami, Tim Urban, or Katie Stevens will be going home. Who do you think will be leaving?

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…

I just had a comment on a previous post that the contestants seem to lack diversity. As they introduced the contestants… actually it was a bit skewed to 9 white contestants, 2 black contestants, and 1 Latino. I did think that the talent was skewed to a “vanilla” flavor – but I meant that many seemed to lack a strong identity and a lot of the contestants seemed to sound the same. But this observation from one of my readers, brings up a question…

Do you think there is a lack of diversity on American Idol?

In my opinion from season’s past this hasn’t seemed to be an issue – and I likely would not have noticed it if not for my reader’s comment.

I wonder if Kris Allen’s win last season brought out more of the singer/songwriter contestants or if producers leaned towards that style after seeing Kris’ fan base as buyers of music. Hmmm.. something to consider.

Anyway… on to my critiques for American Idol’s Top 12.

Michael Lynch “Big Mike: I love Michael. My problem tonight is that they are having the contestants perform The Rolling Stones. I mean, unless they completely alter the song to fit their own style and voice – it’s a huge challenge. I don’t really like The Rolling Stones anyway – but comparing a regular performance with the original – really and truly – no one can do it like Mick Jagger. However, Mike did a pretty good job and his personality is simply adorable. I think he’ll get really far in the competition – top 3 for sure.

Didi Benami: I like Didi and she has a cool voice. She did a good job and certainly sings well. I wouldn’t buy an album as it feels that most of her music seems quite the same each week. She’s a cute girl but I don’t think she’ll be around much longer as she doesn’t stand out as a star yet.

Casey James: I like that Casey is a country guy and I hope he stays true to that side of him – even in making a rock song change into a country tune. He actually did a great job – reminded me a bit of some Travis Tritt songs – country with an edge. He’s got the country fan vote and for sure will be around for a while. The thing I liked the most was that the song and performance felt like a Casey James song – rather than something from The Rolling Stones.

Lacey Brown: Boy she was a darling kid. Loved her family and the comment from her dad that she was really shy as a child – but heard someone say: “If you remain shy, you’ll miss your destiny.” Love that quote and the thought behind it. I wanted so much to like her performance but it was just not good. Kind of whiny, pitchy and boring for me. (I’m not sure what the judges were hearing.) It’s sad because I like her personality. But I think she’s at risk to going home this week.

Andrew Garcia: I loved Andrew’s dad – so sweet – you can tell he really cares about his son. It shows that even without money and the advantages of the world – if you are determined, you can do great things. I thought Andrew’s performance was pretty good – it just didn’t fit his personal style very much. I wish he had changed up the song a bit more. But as he’s done that in the past and the judges have told him to not change it up too much – I think he’s likely trying not to change things as much as he has in the past. It’s a hard spot to be in for him – to find that balance. I hope he sticks around because he has a lot of talent.

Katie Stevens: Oh boy, I still can’t believe she stayed and Lilly Scott went home last week. She’s darling but should be going home this week. She just needs more experience, more polish and a definition of what kind of artist she’s going to be. Again… she’s a cute girl… just out of her league, in my opinion.

Tim Urban: Wow – a family with 10 kids. That’s awesome! I could completely see him as the next Disney teen idol (if he could act even a little bit) – but not the next American Idol. He’s adorable and will appeal to the younger girls. The song he performed was okay but forgettable – I did like that he made it different and didn’t try to be one of The Rolling Stones – but it just didn’t blow me away. I can’t call it if he’s going home – because you never quite know what the voting crowd is going to do. But I think he probably should be going home as some of the other guys are much stronger than he is right now. I’d love to see him combine his singing with acting … Disney… are you listening?

Siobhan Magnus: I have to say I was really looking forward to hearing what Siobhan would do with The Rolling Stones. I’m sad to say I was very disappointed with the song choice and performance. It just didn’t showcase her style or her range until the very end – and then reminded me a bit of Adam Lambert’s high notes. Didn’t like it at all. Apparently I was all alone in not liking it – as the judges gushed about everything and said she was the standout performance of the night. Obviously I love her voice and think she sang well – and is unique – but I just didn’t like the song choice. Top 3 and likely could win.

Lee DeWyze: His voice is my favorite of all of the contestants. Even if he doesn’t win the overall competition, I think he’ll have a great career. I absolutely love the quality, tone and raspy coolness of his voice. Can’t wait for his album to come out. The thing I liked about his performance tonight was that he totally made the song his own – it didn’t feel like a Rolling Stones knockoff – he stayed true to his own style. I think his tone was the best he has done – as in past weeks he’s struggled with pitch issues – but it was great this week.

Paige Miles: Paige has a great voice. I just don’t see her as a star yet. I think she’s at risk for going home – and I was actually surprised she stayed around from last week. I did like that there was a little bit of a country twist on the song and she did a good job. I’m not sure her personality has stood out as much as some of the other girls.

Aaron Kelly: He looked so cute with his cowboy hat on as a kid – it kind of made me wonder if he could put a country twist on some of his songs – if that would do well… any thoughts? I did like what he did this week with hair – spiking it out — it made him seem a bit more put together and not quite so young – well done! He could be another teen idol – just like Tim Urban. I don’t see him as a big competitor for American Idol. I think he did the best he’s done in the competition so far tonight.

Crystal Bowersox: That girl can sing. I love that she can make a Rolling Stone song seem like it’s completely her own. She’s extremely talented and I think is a contender for the title. I’m still looking for a little more connection from her – to the audience. Even though she’s amazing… I feel a lack in emotion or genuine expression from her. Her performance was great. I was glad that the judges mentioned that she seemed to feel “too comfortable” and there was a lack of personality – hopefully she’ll show more of herself to connect the fans and not come off as cocky.

So after all is said and done … I don’t really care who gets eliminated as long as it’s not Lee DeWyze, Michael Lynch, or Siobhan Magnus. I will however be surprised if Casey James or Crystal Bowersox get eliminated.

Who do you think should stay or go this week?

Can anyone say they were surprised by the 2 eliminated this week?

I have also been watching trends on both Twitter and iTunes, and I have to say my prediction about the next American Idol winner has changed. I predict Adam Lambert will be the winner hands down. Although I personally will not be rushing out to buy his album, if downloads on iTunes are any indication, he has a load of fans out there who will. I just can’t get past his “stage persona” yet – he’s such a seasoned performer, it’s difficult to relate to him as a person. As the weeks have gone on – I have to admit that I really do not like his voice that much. On top of that – seeing him sticking out his tongue to hit the high notes is not a pretty sight, even though he is a very cute guy. Obviously I can’t say he’s not talented. He is. Just not my taste at all.

I still prefer the voice, tambre and personality of Danny Gokey. I like Kris Allen as well and think even if they don’t win, they will have big careers in the music industry.

Just my two cents for this week….

Oh — and I was pleased to see our little David Archeleta’s performance. I love his voice – and he’s so cute you just want to pick him up and give him a hug. It will be fun to see if he can bridge the gap from cute and amazing kid into amazing seasoned performer. I think he has it in him. Go David go!

There are 4 or 5 I just shake my head at – I feel really bad for those whose talent is much better but are considered “normal” and therefore sent home while some who are simply very obnoxious and overly dramatic are put through.

But… that’s the name of the game and it is effective – getting people to discuss events on the show, have emotional connection (whether it’s support or disgust), and gets people yelling at the TV.

I think American generally gets it right once we have a vote. But it’s sad to see some go home who truly should get through.

My first prediction – now seeing briefly the top 36 – I predict the Church Music Teacher who lost his wife will be easily in the top 3 and most likely win the season. He’s likable, has a unique and soulful sound, knows who he is, cares about others, does not seem cocky, sings incredibly, and I think people will connect emotionally with him.

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – “American Idol” fans say baby-faced crooner David Archuleta will win the No. 1 television show’s current competition, even though they picked rival David Cook as the most talented performer, an E-Poll/Reuters survey found.
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As the top-rated U.S. TV talent show entered one of its most-watched weeks when it hopes to raise $100 million for charity on its “Idol Gives Back” program, fans were showing plenty of love for the two Davids.

Archuleta, a 17-year-old native of Utah, was voted the likely winner by 40 percent of “Idol” viewers polled, according to the survey by E-Poll Market Research on behalf of Reuters.

Anointed the man to beat by judge Simon Cowell after he sang John Lennon’s “Imagine” in February, Archuleta tied rocker Cook as the one whom viewers wanted to win, with both getting 25 percent of the vote.

But Cook, 25, who has reworked 1980s dance hits such as Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” and Lionel Richie’s “Hello” into edgy, slow-burning rock songs, topped Archuleta 31 percent to 27 percent when it came to proving his talent beyond just singing.

Irish-born belter Carly Smithson was ranked third most talented followed by folksy Brooke White, Aussie Michael Johns, dreadlock-sporting Jason Castro, country girl Kristy Lee Cook and Syesha Mercado.

Past winners such as Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood, and even those who didn’t win such as Clay Aiken and Chris Daughtry, have gone on to successful music careers.

“American Idol,” which is hosted by Ryan Seacrest, pits singers against one another in a months-long competition for a professional recording contract.

The weekly show draws nearly 30 million viewers, making it the most-watched program on U.S. television. This season’s winner will be announced during a live finale in May.

The survey, which was conducted last week, polled roughly 1,100 respondents ages 13 and over who, perhaps surprisingly, had good things to say about razor-tongued Cowell.

Even though his No. 1 trait is “rude” according to E-Poll’s E-Score Celebrity data, Cowell was chosen by 64 percent of respondents as their favorite judge.

His fellow judges Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul each received about 17 percent of the “favorite” vote.

Some 85 percent of those polled said “American Idol” would be worse without Cowell, and 75 percent considered him to be the judge with the greatest influence over the way the public votes. Jackson followed with 13 percent and Abdul at 12.

But a large majority, 83 percent, said the judges had little or no impact on the their own votes.

(Editing by Bob Tourtellotte and Philip Barbara)

However, with the fan base and with past performances I think perhaps Kristy Lee Cook and Brooke White may end up in the bottom three.

Article from ETOnline: http://www.etonline.com/news/2008/04/60398/index.html

As part of “Idol Gives Back” week, the Final 8 “American Idol” contestants were required to sing inspirational songs on Tuesday night’s performance show. According to the judges, the standout performances of the night were JASON CASTRO, DAVID ARCHULETA and KRISTY LEE COOK.

MICHAEL JOHNS was up first with AEROSMITH’s “Dream On.” RANDY JACKSON told him, “I really believe this is one of the important weeks for us, because you are telling us who you are. I don’t buy that you are an Aerosmith-like singer.” PAULA ABDUL said, “I couldn’t disagree more. First of all, I think it was the perfect song for you to pick. You sound as good as you look. The high notes that you hit — my Chihuahuas are going to come join you on stage.” SIMON COWELL took a middle position, saying, “I thought it was a very good performance. Why I am slightly with Randy is, I don’t like it when you do an impersonation of a rock star. I prefer when you do blues or soul. I preferred last week.”

SYESHA MERCADO channeled former “American Idol” winner FANTASIA with “I Believe.” Randy remarked, “I have to give you credit again. You took on another tiger this week. Fantasia is one of the best singers. I didn’t find the connection with you. It was just okay.” Paula noted, “Not many people can take on songs like that. Fantasia has her own style. You made [the song] your own. I think this is hands down one of your most shining nights.” Simon observed, “Of course there is going to be a comparison. She sang that song when she won the competition. I think technically you sang it well. What it lacked for me was that big wave of emotion that I got when Fantasia sang it that I didn’t get from you.”

Ukulele in hand, Jason Castro interpreted “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” inspired by the late ISRAEL KAMAKAWIWO’OLE’s version of the song. Randy enthused, “Dude, Jason Castro is back. That was the hottest tonight. That was blazing, molten hot.” Paula agreed, saying, “I love that version of the song. You did a great job.” Simon claimed, “The first time I heard that version, I thought it was interesting. The second time, I loved it. The third time — fantastic.”

Kristy Lee cook performed MARTINA McBRIDE’s “Do It Anyway.” Randy told her, “You know what? There were a couple of pitch moments, but I loved that. It was good for you.” Paula praised, “I think you outdid yourself tonight. This was your best by far. It is so easy singing songs that inspire you.” Simon stated, “Randy made a point earlier on. With a choice this broad, you have a chance to show who you are as an artist. I thought you were very, very good indeed. You look like a star tonight.”

DAVID COOK rocked to “Innocent.” Randy said, “I am a huge fan of yours. Every week you have been throwing it down. I didn’t think it was one of your strongest weeks.” Paula remarked, “I think you are so well defined as being the whole package. I believe in you.” Simon commented, “I didn’t like this performance very much at all. I thought it was a teensy weensy bit pompous. We say this week after week after week, originality, choice of song and something you are going to remember in a couple weeks. It wasn’t anywhere near as good as the last two weeks.”

CARLY SMITHSON tackled QUEEN’s “The Show Must Go On.” Randy said, “It started out good, got a little pitchy and ended up okay. It was disconnected for me.” Paula agreed, pointing out, “Your voice, as always, was pretty perfect. I didn’t feel engaged with you and I usually am.” Simon complimented Carly on her look. Then he added, “I thought it was an unusual choice of song. I think you over-sang it. You lost control of the song toward the end. It came across as an angry performance, which felt out of kilter with the evening.”

David Archuleta chose “Angels” as his inspirational song. Randy commended him: “That was the David Archuleta I love. That was your hottest moment this season.” Paula simply said, “Fantastic.” Simon praised him, saying, “The best song choice of the night so far. This is one of the best pop songs written, in my opinion. I am not going to say it was your best vocal. I am nitpicking here, because you are going to sail through.”

BROOKE WHITE performed CARLY SIMON’s “You’ve Got a Friend.” Randy said, “For me, I don’t think it was your best performance. It was okay for me, but I wasn’t mad. Paula enthused, “I think it is the perfect way to close the evening. You were very definitive and I love you.” Simon observed that “it was like a pleasant walk in the park. Was it original? No. Was it pleasant? Yes.”

Anyway, there are a few others in the running, and sometimes one of the underdogs will step it up and surprise me.