Cast your vote now!
Who do you think is going to be the winner of this season’s American Idol?
Was anyone surprised at the results show from American Idol tonight? Last night I predicted Haley Reinhart would be sent home. Was she sent home? I also predicted Haley, Paul McDonald, and Jacob Lusk in the bottom three (but with Stefano Langore also at risk). Was I close in my predictions?
According to American Idol tradition… the results will appear after this short break…
I don’t like to write the results in the title of my blog or the first paragraph just in case someone hasn’t watched yet and doesn’t want to be surprised by catching the headings… just being polite to the blogosphere and American Idol fans … yup… that’s the way I roll.
I do have to say that I’m liking the duets and small group numbers on American Idol this season during results shows instead of the full group numbers that typically don’t sound great because voices don’t blend well, or are performed with lipsyncing.
It was nice to see Kelly Clarkson back on the American Idol stage. It brought back memories of our first season with the show – and the possibilities available for all American Idol contestants.
Okay now back to our results:
Our bottom three contestants were Haley Reinhart, Stefano Langore, and Paul McDonald. Were you surprised at any of them?
Finally, after all of dramatic pauses and performances, the contestant sent home was announced: Paul McDonald
Who do you think should have gone home? Did America get it right?
I can’t say I agree at least this week – I thought Haley would go home first, but I did think Paul was at risk. Obviously Paul has fans and I think will still do well in his career. Good luck Paul!
How did the top 8 of American Idol do this week? Well, this is just one girl’s opinion but here goes…
First, Congratulations go out to Jennifer Lopez for being named by People Magazine “The Most Beautiful Woman in the World.” Obviously she’s gorgeous but I always wonder how anyone could really choose – because there are so many types of beauty. But congrats nonetheless.
And now on to the American Idol performances of the week.
We began with Paul McDonald who wore an outlandish wild suit that rivaled anything Steven Tyler might wear on stage. He performed Bob Seager’s “Old Time Rock & Roll”. I felt that Paul was still holding back on his performance for some reason – I’m not sure if it’s intimidation from the stage or if it just sounds smaller than when he’s singing in studio with the mentors for the show – but I keep waiting and waiting for him to totally break loose and let his vocals fill the auditorium. It felt more that he wears the costumes to make up for a lack in his performance to me.
I also must say that I have found myself longing for more critique from the judges rather than “I loved it”, “good job”, etc. This week I kind of wanted Simon back. Gasp. I loved Simon. And I love that this season has not been as mean. But I also want a bit more from the judges and not just gushing love. I do like the fact that the mentors have been a bit more open and honest with the contestants in guiding them and kind of want more of that from the judging panel. It feels like since they don’t have a say anymore – they don’t really say much.
Off my soap box…
Lauren Alaina sang “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus. I actually liked it except for a few off notes. And I think it’s cheesy when the contestants start on the long staircase, but she did a pretty good job. She’s a darling girl and I find myself wanting her to do well. But I’m looking for more confidence from her. She seems a little timid still. I know that will come as she has more performing under her belt and I’m certain it’s difficult to stand up each week knowing that judges, America, and bloggers such as myself, will critique every aspect of her performance. That’s got to be intimidating. But she’s talented and I want her to let it shine – so I can feel that she’s confident but not cocky.
Stefano Langore sang “The End of the Road” by Boys to Men. He did a good job vocally but I can’t get past his facial expressions – they are almost too earnest, pleading, and trying too hard. I wish he looked like he was enjoying himself rather than straining – that would go a long way with me. When he smiles after the song is over – that’s what I’m looking for – genuineness – but IN the performance and not just afterwards.
Scotty McCreery chose George Strait’s “Cross My Heart”. I like the song. I like Scotty. He can sing almost anything and sound amazing. Now I wish someone would teach him to hold the microphone in a bit more masculine way, and do a little more with his facial expressions when singing – he seems to have a half smirk always and I’d like a bit more “realness” – okay I know I’m being picky – but I’m just saying what I think. Also – if he had a hat for the truly country songs – I think that might work well to make him look a bit more like a fit on stage. There were a few rough parts where the back-up singers kind of overpowered him or threw him off but he recovered well and I really do love his rich deep voice.
Casey Casey Casey… what can I say? I really do like Casey Abrams. He ignored the advice from his mentors and sang “Nature Boy” by Nat King Cole. I actually think it was a mistake – as the song is perfect for an intimate nightclub jazz setting, but not for American Idol. There are millions of youth who have probably never even heard jazz – and the dissonance and mood of the song likely will not connect with most of the American Idol teen crowd. However, Casey is likeable and I hope he makes it through. The judges gave him a standing ovation and loved it, but I’m just shaking my head that such a dated and acquired taste for the song style might put him at risk.
Haley Reinhart performed Blondie’s “Call Me”. If you’ve kept up with my blog at all, you know that Haley just isn’t my favorite. And this week was no different. Randy said it sounded a bit karaoke, and I had to agree. I know others really like her, but I think she might be headed home this week.
Jacob Lusk took the advice of his mentors and performed “Bridge Over Troubled Water”. I know he must have been shocked to be in the bottom three last week and it seemed to have squelched some of the joy out of him. He’s always been a bit over the top for me, but incredibly talented. However, this week it seemed as though he was sad, didn’t have much confidence and the joy was gone. That just can’t happen to a singer as great as Jacob — come on Jacob — get back your happy soul – that’s what we love seeing! I did like the advice the mentors gave to him about “not preaching to America and Don’t do corny” – as I think that’s what hurt him last week. He’ll do well, even if he goes home this week but I wish we could see his spirit soar again before he moves onto the next phase of his career – so I hope he sticks around another week or two.
And then came James… James Durbin everyone. The next American Heavy Metal rock star. Wow. He performed “Heavy Metal” by Sammy Hagar. And pled with America to “Give metal a chance!” For some reason when he performs it’s not cheesy for him to approach the judges table, and totally rock out. Okay, I really don’t like heavy metal – it’s angry, dark, screaming to me – but… I have to say that even with all of that I really love James Durbin. I think the reason he wins me over each week – even when I don’t like his song selection – is that he truly loves the music, loves to perform, and it’s a joy participating in the performance with him. He draws America in. I still predict James as the overall winner of American Idol this season … and that’s why… he draws America in – to the music, to his passion, to his life, to his challenges, and to his love of performing.
So, until tomorrow night we’ll be waiting to see who America has chosen to send home. I think it will be Haley Reinhart. But the bottom three will be Haley, Paul McDonald, and Jacob Lusk or Stefano Langore. However, with Casey’s choice this week, I won’t be too surprised if he’s in the bottom – but I hope he’s not. I could go either way with Lauren.
Obviously safe will be Scotty McCreery and James Durbin. Any thoughts from you? (Please keep it polite … I love differing opinions… just not angry rants and cussing me out.) Thanks
It’s not often that I’m truly shocked by the results of American Idol. Yes, of course, I was surprised a few weeks ago when Casey Abrams had the lowest votes and the judges saved him. But at least I had an explanation for it – as I figured his fans thought he was certainly safe and didn’t feel as much incentive to vote for him that early in the show.
But this week – Pia Toscano in the bottom three? Really? I mean, she has not been my favorite – as I’ve felt she’s too refined and not really connecting with the audience. But this week watching her struggle a bit on the performance aspect made me see her in a new light – a little less “perfect”. But I really was shocked with Ryan announced her in the bottom three.
Rounding out the rest of the bottom three was Jacob Lusk, and Stefano Langore. Neither of whom have been my favorites either – but I was surprised Stefano was in the bottom as I thought some of the others were a bit weaker than he was last night. With the bottom three announced – I figured Jacob would be the one going home.
Just to interject here about Iggy Pop – what… I mean what??? Ick and can I say Ick again? Oh please. I know they were trying to get a superstar rocker on stage .. but Iggy Pop with no shirt, out of breath, and just plain icky… come on American Idol … I think you can do better than that.
Back to the results…
Ryan told Jacob he was leaving … to go back to safety at the couches. And then Pia Toscano was announced at the one leaving. It was clear that everyone was in shock – Stefano, other contestants, and judges. I’m certain if the judges had another save they would have pulled it out immediately and sent her back to safety.
Jennifer said she had no idea what just happened. Randy was in shock. But I can tell you that even though Pia is an amazing singer – there HAS to be a connection between the contestant and the audience. We have to see the contestants as someone we like, we see as an underdog or similar to ourselves (imperfect but wanting to live the dream) and we have to want them to succeed. I think Pia’s challenge was she came onto American Idol when she could have already been putting out albums. She seemed overly confident (even though at times she said she was scared – it didn’t come across that she was scared). She was a bit reserved and classy – which is GREAT for a performer but for an American Idol contestant we need to see more personality and anything to help us connect.
My prediction is that Pia Toscano will be a recording contract very quickly and be the first of the contestants from the season to have her album out there. I also think she could easily get a guest spot on Glee, or other TV/movies. Good luck Pia!
Hi all — I’m home sick in bed, but of course, could not miss American Idol. I don’t have enough energy to review the whole show from last night, except to say… what is happening??? My favorites – Casey Abrams and James Durbin – were not my favorites last night. Wow. I have loyalty but it was time to shine for a few of the others.
My favorite of the night was Scotty McCreery. I loved that he did an Elvis song. He can certainly sing. Now if someone can mentor him about stage presence, how to hold the microphone, and move around on stage, that would take him to the next level.
I was a little surprised that Pia Toscano wasn’t as good moving around the stage as I would have expected. It actually made me like her a little bit more – seeing that she’s not completely perfect. She sang the song well as usual.
My predictions for bottom three this week: Jacob Lusk, Haley Reinhart, and Paul McDonald. I wouldn’t be surprised if any of the three went home, but I’m kind of leaning towards Jacob this week. And here is why… his style is a little more gospel than mainstream pop. His interview this week made him sound a little cocky. “If I’m in the bottom three it won’t be because I sang the song badly, it will be because America isn’t ready to look at the man in the mirror.” (paraphrased) Yeah… when contestants get to sound like they think they are amazing, it doesn’t seem to go over very well with America. But we’ll see how it goes.
Oh, and Gwen Stefani’s styling for Lauren… I’m sorry but it looked like she was on stage in a big plaid diaper. (Maybe it’s the flu speaking here, but boy it was not an attractive outfit or hair style for her.)
I have not had time to give a full review and rundown of American Idol last night – but before the results show I figured I would weigh in – and hear your predictions as well…
I think Naima and Thea will be going home tonight. And Stephano will join them in the bottom three. Haley isn’t my favorite but she did a pretty good job last night – my niece told me last week that Haley is her top choice so I suppose even though I’m not a fan she does have a fan base. Obviously all of the contestants are talented, but at this point I think it’s not just talent that gets them through… it’s the connection they have with America.
Last week I commented that James had taken over first place for me – and I got hate mongers text shouting at me that Adam Lambert is so much more talented than James. Um… last I checked Adam is not a contestant this year… just sayin’. (please insert cheeky grin here – which means I’m kind of joking and sarcastic and do not wish to inflame the Adam fans again…)
Now, that being said, I didn’t adore James’ performance last night – but I couldn’t help the smile on my face because his love of performing, his energy and unbridled enthusiasm is contagious. And… I’ve been to live concerts and paid hundreds of dollars for tickets – without that same feeling. So – I’m still a James fan. And still a Casey fan. And hope Pia will quit being so perfect so I can relate to her more. And love Scotty and will buy his country album when it comes out.
Who do you think is going home? and who is your favorite?
Are you going to miss the contestant who went home tonight? I never put their names in the subject or first paragraph of my blog posts – just in case someone hasn’t watched the results show yet… I hate it when I accidentally catch a glimpse of a headline that gives away the results….
But before I give away the results, I wanted to say that it was great to have Stevie Wonder on the show tonight. He’s truly a legend and I love that no matter what he sings – I know it’s him – he’s one of my favorites! And hearing him sing Happy Birthday to Steven Tyler was priceless. What a fun way for him to celebrate. Happy Birthday from all of us too!
My favorite part of the night was when Ryan announced that both Paul McDonald and James Durbin ‘ were NOT safe tonight… shocking… but then the back opened and out came Hulk Hogan came out – Reportedly both guys watch wrestling on TV at the house non-stop. It was quite funny – until of course he did the smack down on Ryan who over acted the whole thing and ended up posterior side up and face down in the audience. A bit too cheesy. But it was priceless to see the expression on James’ face when Hulk came on the stage. Very fun.
And now to the results …
Our bottom three consisted of: Thea Megia, Stefano Langore, Casey Abrams. WHAT? Are you kidding me? Casey in the bottom three and Haley going on to safety? Wow. The only thing I can think is that Casey’s fans thought he was safe and didn’t pick up the phone.
And then Thea was sent back to safety – which left Casey and Stefano as the bottom two. Then Casey was announced as the American Idol contestant going home. What in the heck? What in the heck? What in the heck?????
The judges interrupted Casey’s singing to save for his life – with the SAVE! WAHOO! It looked like Casey was going to pass out with shock – and was shaking uncontrollably – I loved his response. Now Casey fans have to get on the phone next week (me included!)
American Idol this week featured the music of Motown. I thought it was an interesting choice and one I was looking forward to – to see how each contestant could make music from such a specific era relevant today and perform with their own unique spin.
We started with Casey Abrams singing Marvin Gaye’s “I Heard it Through the Grapevine.” What a great song choice for him! I loved the whole vibe of the song – even if I didn’t like Casey’s hairstyle for the night. It kind of reminded me of a slicked-back Chewbacca hair during the performance. But I loved what he did with the song.
Thea Megia selected “Heat Wave” by Martha and the Vandellas. A bit more of an uptempo song for her. She is such a cute girl, but still so young. I think she’s so reserved and I typically hope the older contestants win because they know more about who they are, their own style, and have a better chance to not get manipulated in the “making of a star” cogs of Hollywood. She sang nicely, but it felt like simply a cover of the song to me rather than making it current and a song of her own. The judges didn’t gush and seemed to want more from Thea.
Jacob Lusk chose Marvin Gaye and Tammie Terrell’s “You’re All I Need to Get by.” I have to admit I was pretty excited to hear what Jacob could do with a Motown song. Although I was a bit distracted by his cream colored jacket, he certainly is a born entertainer. And you can absolutely tell that he loves music and loves to sing. Jacob got Steven Tyler to jump out of his chair, come onto the stage and give him a hug. “You know what was wrong with that performance? Nothing!” “You made us beg. You move me. It’s amazing!” Pretty soon, Ryan Seacrest had invited the whole front row to come up and give Jacob a hug.
Lauren Alaina – “You Keep Me Hanging On” by the Supremes. I like Lauren, and thought she did a good job. I liked the first half better than the second half. I wished she would have had a bit of a different take on the song to make it a bit more stylized, but she did good.
Just a side note – does anyone else find it awkward when contestants come down and sing to the judges?
Stefano Langore selected Lionel Richie “Hello” – one of my personal favorite songs. I was a bit worried as he started off shaky, and Lionel Richie is such an icon, I wasn’t sure I was going to love it. I was glad Stefano changed the song up and made it more his own. What a cute boy! I think he must have had girls swooning all over the country. Jennifer counseled him to connect more with the audience because his heart is in the song/message. All of the judges wanted more emotion. I thought it was great counsel for him, and needed – but felt bad for him as the critique went on quite a while. But I think the judges were giving good feedback because they truly do want him to take it to the next level. I’m liking (and remembering) Stefano more each week – so that’s also a good sign that he’s not fading into the background. He really can sing and I think may get farther in the competition than I first anticipated as he seems to be getting a pretty big fan base. My guess is he will get more votes this week than normal based on the demanding critiques from the judges.
And now for why I think American Idol should apologize… I thought it was totally uncalled for that Gordon Ramsey from Hell’s Kitchen was so rude about Stefano’s mom’s cooking – why in the world would they even include that in the show? It had nothing to do with anything – and Stefano’s mother had prepared a meal for all of the contestants – truly being of service and offering a gift of love – she wasn’t competing for anything – and yet the comments made were completely out of line. BOO! BOO! BOO! I would like to call for an apology from Chef Ramsey AND American Idol for that whole scene! Bad form!
But back to the singing… however I’m still incredulous and almost offended by the criticism of Stefano’s mother’s pasta. Ryan – you need to be more careful about who you ask to add in “playful” banter into the mix – as obviously there are times it backfires. BOO again! I knew Ramsey had a reputation for being a jerk in the kitchen – but this was totally and completely rude and unnecessary. I don’t know if they were trying to be funny – it did not work at all.
Alright, I’m off my soapbox (for now), until I think about it again and get mad all over.
But back to Haley Reinhart… one of our bottom three from last week. Smokey Robinson’s “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me,” was an interesting choice. She was counseled to connect this week – which I do think is an issue for her. It’s not that she’s not talented – I think it’s that there is something emotional missing from her performances. I wish there was something I would feel while she was singing but I just don’t get an emotional response. I was a bit worried though that she might trip and fall in those 4 inch heels. She seemed a bit wobbly on stage and I wasn’t sure if it was the shoes, or trying to get into the song. Ultimately she did a pretty good job, but I think she’ll be in the bottom 3 again this week – if not end up going home.
Scotty McCreery performed “For Once in My Life” version performed by Stevie Wonder. I loved that Scotty took the song and made it totally country – it’s a song I’d buy and I could imagine it doing well on the radio. So far, this was my favorite song of the night – totally a new and relevant version of the song that is completely Scotty! That’s what I’ve been wanting from every performance.
Pia Toscano selected Stevie Wonder’s “All in Love is Fair”. First I have to say she looked gorgeous – her dress was modest (at least in the front) and beautiful and elegant. It started a bit rough but she took the song and blew it out. What a beautiful rendition. She is truly an amazingly talented girl. Jennifer gave Pia the same critique as she gave to Stefano – there needs to be more of an connection and to own the stage. Randy wants something besides a ballad. Steven thinks she’s the “closest star in this American Idol universe”. There is no doubt in my mind she’ll have a recording contract, but can she carry enough of the American vote to win the whole thing? I’m not sure she’s connected personally with as many as some of the others – but she’ll go far for sure.
Paul McDonald – I think Motown is a great style for Paul to perform. He selected “Tracks of My Tears” by Smokey Robinson and the Miracles. First, what was up with the hair? I’m all for the messy look but when the hair distracts from the performance, something needs to change. Just sayin’. Paul totally made the song his own – I don’t think he can do anything without making it completely a Paul McDonald song. I’m just still longing for something big and large and powerful from him. I know it’s not his style – but I am starting to feel like whatever he sings ends up being the same as the week before and I worry that any album he puts out – all the songs will be too similar.
Naima Adedapo – “Dancing in the Street” by Martha Reeves & The Vandellas. I think Naima needs to go on Project Runway. She has such a unique fashion sense and might do well showcasing her designs. Including African dancing in a performance was really taking a risk and I thought she did a good job – but I didn’t think there was enough of a mix of the song that made it really unique. I think it was one of my favorite performances that she has done, but I think there is not enough of a connection for America to keep her much longer.
And to the performance that I have been looking forward to all night… James Durbin.
James Durbin – what could he sing from Motown? Well – pretty much anything – but he chose to do “Living for the City” by Stevie Wonder. I just always have a grin on my face when James comes up to perform. He’s truly such a talent and I can’t get over how much he makes everything stand out. What a great way to end the night. It felt like he was already a rock star performer – coming as a guest on the show. I think James has taken the lead in my heart over Casey – although it’s a close second. The audience seemed to agree as the standing ovation went on and on.
So final recap -
First, a call to Ryan, American Idol and Gordon Ramsey for an apology
Second, I’m thinking Haley will be going home, and Naima and Lauren will be in the bottom three. It wasn’t that anyone did a bad job either – I think everyone performed well tonight – but I am basing my predictions on personality, emotionality, and connection with the audience. What do you think?
Until tomorrow…
Hi all — this is an unusual post for me — as I typically focus my blog posts on the topic at hand – American Idol. But once in a while I feel that it’s appropriate for me to reach out and see if I can recruit some help for someone in need. That is the purpose of this post.
I have an amazing niece. She’s beautiful and talented - 
and yet she doesn’t seem aware of all of that – she is much more focused on serving others, including people and making people feel accepted. She is going to go to Thailand this summer to teach English and volunteer to help where needed. But she’s a poor college student and is trying to raise money to cover her travel expenses. I’ve helped all I can at this point, so I’m asking if you might be willing to help too.
Money is tight for all of us – but I’m hoping people would be willing to donate $1 to her cause – and then we can all feel as though we are helping but it’s not a huge sacrifice or struggle for anyone. Anyway, if you feel so inclined, I would really appreciate it – and I know Becca would too. She really is an amazing person and I know will be a great mentor to the kids in Thailand.
Thanks in advance for any help you can give! And then let’s get back to American Idol for my next post. (insert sweet grin here).
If you want to LIKE her Facebook page – it’s http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Support-Becca-Volunteering-in-Thailand and spread the word that way – that also would be really appreciated.
Thank you so much! Every dollar will help 
American Idol didn’t bring many surprises for me tonight – as I predicted the bottom 3 – all girls. Naima Adedapo, Haley Reinhart, and Karen Rodriguez. But who didn’t get enough votes to keep them on the show for another week?
Obviously we had to first go through all of the drama of selecting the bottom three, a performance from reining Idol Lee DeWyze -
singing his latest single “Beautiful Like You”, as well as the Black Eyed Peas performance.
Sometimes I wish the results show would be only 30 minutes rathe
r than drag
ging it out for a whole hour – but I guess they have to have some platform to showcase previous winners and other talent. It just seems like I could catch the last 10 minutes of the show and not really have missed anything. Does anyone else feel that way?
Okay back to business…
After sending Naima Adedapo back to safety – it was down to Karen Rodriguez and Haley Reinhart. Karen was named as the one at risk for going home – with the hope of performing for her life and having the judges use their season “save” to keep her. Karen did her best to perform “Hero” by Mariah Carey. But we’re talking Mariah Carey here! Even though she broke into Spanish, it just wasn’t super great – it felt more like a beauty pageant performance to me. No surprises that the judges passed on saving her.
And now we’re down to 11…
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