The American Idol 12 Top 8 sing the songs of the Motor City. The legendary Smokey Robinson will mentor this week. I’ll be live blogging right here.
Smokey Robinson narrates a video package all about Motown records and their legendary artists. Is that Jack White I hear in the background? Yes it is.
Any artist from Detroit is fair game. Really? Each of the contestants will sing a song, plus there will be duets and trios!
Keith Urban is performing tomorrow!
UPDATE: Burnell tweets what seems to be an apology for throwing Lazaro under the bus, “We All Make Mistakes And We All Say Things We Wish We Could Take Back But? We’re All Humans” and Devin tweets, “Today had its ups and downs, and I wasn’t trying to offend anyone. I still love my bros, @LazaroAI12 and @burnellai12.”
I was literally shocked when Ryan revealed at the top of the show that the theme included songs from any artist who came out of the motor city. Yet, nearly every singer performed an overplayed Motown song. I would love to grill the producers about this song selection business. Because it seems like the contestants are given a very short list of songs to choose from. Either that, or Jimmy is assigning them terrible songs. But this is one of the problems with Idol right now. I’m going to freak out if I have to hear “Tracks of My Tears” one more freaking time! Were there songs from Bob Seger on the list? Mitch Ryder? Anita Baker? The White Stripes? Weird.
And what’s with the judges texting from the panel? Mariah looked completely distracting from the task at hand as she fiddled with her phone. And why were both Nicki and Mariah wearing orange? And why was Mariah waving a wand around? There seemed to be a deliberate effort to make the panel seem more “fun.” Maybe pressure from The Voice? Unfortunately, this charisma-free panel isn’t going to get some anytime soon. Nicki’s critiques, as usual, ranged from the WFT to spot on. I have to say I laughed out loud when she lectured the boys after their pathetic group number. Mariah continues to blather on and on without saying much. And while these two aren’t warring publicly, they still compete in small ways. When Nicki began flirting with Smokey Robinson, who was in the audience, Mariah immediately joined in. You could almost see Mariah thinking, “DAMN.” And Nicki praised Kree for her ability not to be intimidated by beautiful, talented singers. A dig at Mariah, perhaps, whom Nicki has accused of being insecure around talented women? Hm.
And speaking of busing? I had to wonder if the producers thought Kree would outshine Janelle so much in their duet, it would reflect badly on the latter. I got the sense shenanigans were afoot when both Nicki and Randy ripped apart Janelle’s half of the performance. Not a memorable performance to begin with–I’d say the two girls had their strengths and weaknesses, but neither outshined the other.
The three remaining boys got stuck in the middle of the performance order with their God-awful group number positioned near the end, so that it would be our last memory of them. That had to be deliberate. The boys wound up looking like sad clowns. Not only was the performance disastrous, with Nicki wagging her finger at them like errant schoolboys afterward, but then the situation became even worse as the trio proceeded to throw each other under the bus. Sadly, the singer who sent the performance careening of a cliff–and then made excuses for it–will outlast both boys and maybe even a girl or two. Lazaro improved this week, but he’s still going to get by on the pity card. I’m going to flat out say, that kid needs to learn to take responsibility for his eff ups. The excuse making is super annoying at this point. It’s a singing competition, he’s not always going to get the song that he wants or have much time to rehearse it. If he can’t hack it, he needs to go home.
So yeah. The boys have tire marks on their backs. If the Kree/Janelle setup was a manipulation, it backfired, because Janelle came back and had one of the best performances of the night. Now can we ooohhh and awwwww over Janelle’s originality? Girls never get credit for arranging their own music. And that cover–she worked it up when she was only 14– was terrific and suited her strengths beautifully. If she’s a songwriter, I want to hear her songs now. I would imagine she and Kree are splitting votes. The question is–which of them will be eliminated first? And would the judges save them?
Amber’s performance of “Lately” was stunning, but I wonder if she will manage to break through this week. She’ s a beautiful girl, but a bit of a cipher. In some ways, she reminds me of Jessica Sanchez, another girl with beautiful pipes, but an inability to get her personality across. If Amber is eliminated this week, the judges will surely save her. But I’m thinking another boy will go this week. One who is not named Lazaro….
While Amber was fantastic, I think the best performance of the night goes to Candice’s funky, groove filled performance of “I Heard it Through the Grapevine.” That gal can do no wrong. Kree was also solid tonight, although her performance felt a little subdued to me. Angie reminded me of a teenager performing in a high school variety show. Easily her worst performance to date. She’s got to pick up an instrument and get back to the singer songwriter deal, where she excels. Burnell is underbaked, but is easily the best of the boys remaining.
Candice Glover – “I Heard It Through The Grapevine” by Marvin Gaye – Smokey tells Candice that her “I Who Have Nothing” performance made him cry. He points out that the Miracles were set to release the song first, but it was determined to be too bluesy for them. Smokey tells her to hit the beat and make it funky. The song opens as a slow blues jam and leads into a totally awesome funk fest. I’m really digging this arrangement. She’s got some sax as a counterpoint. Candice has a way of breathing life into the same old same old songs she covers. She ends the song with a gritty howl. WOW. Keith says she’s raised the bar exponentially. He loves the way she lifted up the second verse, but didn’t overpower it. Calls it her best performance. Nicki noticed that she “kept her eyes alive” and stayed through it the whole way. Loved her rocky/bluesy side. Randy loved her confidence. “You got one of the best voices in the competition this year.” Mariah says she epitomizes the competition this year. She wants more churchy/jazz moments from her. Candice admits that she was VERY nervous to sing first. – 1-866-436-5701
Candice Glover – Heard It Through The Grapevine… by IdolxMuzic
Kree Harrison and Janelle Arthur – Like a Prayer by Madonna – They are really excited to duet with each other. They name check Jennifer Nettles, who recorded this song. I like both singers, but this duet is doing nothing for me. Although Janelle is singing louder and more passionately than Kree, the latter has more control. Still, they’re both overpowered by the choir singing behind them. This is a big pop song, and is not really in either of the singers’ wheelhouse. Points for trying something different, though. Nicki is excited that two of her fav girls sang together. She throws major shade on Janelle. She said it was like Kree flew in to sing a duet with an Idol contestant. Whoa “Kree outsang you,” said Nicki who felt Janelle oversang it. Randy also said Kree “outshined” her. Mariah gets snotty about getting cut off. Ohh. She calls it a “sisterhood” moment. She’s not going to pit them against each other. Blah blah blah Mariah. there’s a reason TPTB cut you off. You blather. Keith says it feels silly to say who sang better, because they aren’t a duo. They both sang great. I wonder if the producers set these two up hoping Janelle would fail? They are probably splitting votes. I don’t think either singer shined on this number, so I’m not getting the overly-harsh critiques of Janelle.
Janelle & Kree – Like A Prayer – American Idol… by IdolxMuzic
Smokey is in the house tonight! He enjoys working with the kids. He’s doing a duets album with David Foster.
Lazaro Arbos – “For Once In My Life” by Stevie Wonder – Smokey advises that he sing songs he loves. Jimmy says the song is in his wheelhouse and pays him a compliment! “A very nice interpretation,” he says. Well, this is a major improvement over the last couple of weeks. But, at this point, the bar is set pretty low. His diction needs work, but he’s staying (mostly) on key this week, and doesn’t look like a nervous mess on stage. Still, it’s a limp performance. Lazaro continues to be out of his league. Randy doesn’t think he completely redeemed himself, but way better than last week. Mariah felt it was a smart song choice. His courage and guts felt like he was back. Keith liked Smokey’s advice, but feels he’s got to pick songs that feel rhythmically, as well as vocally, right to him. Nicki says, “He’s definitely back.” She turns back to the audience, declaring that she wants Smokey to be her “sugar daddy.” That’s a SEXY SPECIMEN, she says. And goes on about his complexion and a lot of other crazy things. She turns back to Lazaro, “Fonzi, you gave me everything tonight!” she screams. She points out that Laz followed her advice to NOT LISTEN TO JIMMY ANY MORE. – 1-866-436-5702
Lazaro Arbos – For Once In My Life – American… by IdolxMuzic
Janelle Arthur (with guitar) – “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” by The Supremes – Janelle came up with the arrangement when she was 14. Smokey suggests she add some dynamics on the second verse. “I’m glad you’re still here too!” says Janelle to the engineer Jimmy threatened to fire last week. She’s adorable! Janelle twists the melody, into a dark, angst-ridden tale of a woman unable to let go. I am impressed that Janelle arranged this herself, and totally put her own stamp on it. She does some nice vocal riffing at the end. A very strong vocal performance. Mariah says, “Janelle that’s you at your finest! Anything that anyone said earlier, you just proved them wrong.” Keith thought it was beautiful and fearless. He loved the angst. Nicki says she shines when she’s playing guitar. She’s still her little marshmallow, but not on point today. Or something. What is she talking about? Randy thinks she was incredible. SHE’S IN IT TO WIN IT. He says. Janelle is literally in tears. She tells Ryan that she used the criticism from her duet to propel her performance and was a little nervous to play guitar in front of Keith. – 1-866-436-5703
Janelle Arthur – Keep Me Hanging On – American… by IdolxMuzic
Devin Velez – “Tracks of My Tears” by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles – Paul was planning to sing this song before he was eliminated. In the recording booth, Devin is singing behind the beat. It bothers Jimmy, but not Smokey, who gives him some pointers on staying in rhythm. How is it that a singer with an absolutely beautiful voice can still make a song totally boring? I’m also not digging the weird things he’s doing with the rhythms. It’s like he’s more into pulling off fancy beats and adlibs than he is in getting inside the meaning of the song. The tune is about heartbreak, and he didn’t connect to that emotion at all. Keith says he needs to not think so much when he singing. Nicki disagrees with Keith. “Devin that was an amazing job tonight.” Is Nicki high? Keith is 100% right. You could literally see Devin’s brain at work as he sang. Randy thought it was one of his best performances in weeks. He loves all the false stuff. Mariah also really loved it. Every minute of it. #TeamKeith – 1-866-436-5704
Devin Velez – Tracks Of My Tears – American… by IdolxMuzic
Amber Holcomb, Angela Miller, Candice Glover – “I’m Going to Make You Love Me” by The Supremes – The trio claims they are all Diana. Heh. Angela is pretty off key here. Candice and Amber have some great moments, but the performance overall feels under-rehearsed. Mariah is all “Hashtag pow!” Guh. Is this her new catch phrase? If so, it’s annoying. ” I loved it,” she continues, “I heard all of your voices individually. There were moments.” Well yeah, there were moments. But this is supposed to be a group effort.
Amber, Candice & Angie – I’m Going To Make You… by IdolxMuzic
Burnell Taylor – “My Cherie Amour” by Stevie Wonder – Smokey finds his rasp “captivating.” He suggests that he sing the “la la las” in a softer voice to avoid strain and achieve a more intimate sound. Burnell’s diction is really strange and distracting. Quite a contrast to his beautiful, mesmerizing phrasing. I find myself pulled in and out of his performances as a result. Bat that phrasing–Burnell makes some lovely, subtle choices in this performance. And of course, there’s that gorgeous tone. I wish he had waited a few years to audition for Idol. He’s only going to get better. Nicki says, “You reminded us why we fell in love with that voice. Your voice is so rich and soulful. It’s very artsy to watch and hear you sing.” Randy loves his choices. “You don’t always have to do big runs. You listened to Smokey This man is in it to win it too.” Mariah says, “You picked one of my favorite songs ever. You gave it a modern flavor.” Keith says, “I love everything about your voice. You’re so original. – 1-866-436-5705
Burnell Taylor – My Cherie Amour – American… by IdolxMuzic
Angela Miller – Shop Around by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles – Smokey loves it when people sings his songs! He tells her it’s not a serious song. “Have fun!” he says. Smokey is trying to tease the blues out of her performance, “She was trying to sing it classical!” Jimmy answers, “That’s what she does!” And yes, that is what she does. This performance is a little breathless and she goofs a lyric. Angela doesn’t seem entirely comfortable in her own skin here. This bluesy arrangement isn’t really working for her. She’s simply not the earthy, rock goddess type. She’s having some pitch problems too. Randy says, “I don’t know if there was something going on in your ears.” Yes, it was pitchy. “It was not great tonight.” Mariah says, “Very sexy moments,” but feels “I’ll be There” at the piano would have been a better moment. I am agreeing with Mariah here! Keith felt the melody kept pulling her down. But, “Your talent was undeniable. We’ll be seeing you next week.” Nicki says, “You came out today to show a side of Angie that didn’t need to be shown.” Yeah, she’s right. Angela really looked out of her element up there. – 1-866-436-5706
Angie Miller – Shop Around – American Idol 12… by IdolxMuzic
Amber Holcomb – “Lately” by Stevie Wonder – Smokey has NO critiques for Amber. He wanted to turn his TV off when she landed in the bottom 3. Amber gets criticized for always singing ballads, but she sings them so beautifully, and this performance is no exception. Amber’s got a beautiful, rich tone. like warm chocolate. She caresses every note, and knows exactly how to hit those big notes without over singing. I hope she’s done enough to stay in the competition this week. I can’t imagine the judges not saving her if the worst happens. All 4 judges stood up for her. Mariah says, “that was a tour de force….It was impeccable.” Mariah added, “F*cking incredible!” (bleeped, of course.) Keith says, “You picked the right song. You have this way of laying in a song. Beautiful.” Nicki says, “That was just out of this world. When God created those vocal chords, he was showing off. I want you to get that twinkle back in your eye. You are loved.” Randy says, “Best vocal of the night. You have grown so much in the competition. Amazing.” – 1-866-436-5707
Amber Holcomb – Lately – American Idol 12 (Top 8) by IdolxMuzic
Burnell Taylor, Devin Valez, Lazaro Arbos – “Sugar Pie Honey Bunch (I Can’t Help Myself)” – Wow. That started off OK, but then it totally fell apart by the end. That was like a trainwreck Hollywood group number. After Lazaro missed a cue and then an entire line, the performance went haywire. More lyrics missed and terrible off key singing ensued. Oh boys. Be grateful it wasn’t Hollywood. Ya’ll might have been eliminated. Nicki agrees “It’s a beautiful day in Hollywood today, because that’s what I felt like…I don’t know what that was, but I’m going to act like I didn’t even see it or hear it. Thank God all 3 of you already had your solo performances” She’s so spitting mad she orders them off the stage. Keith is cracking up. When Ryan asks what went wrong, Burnell says, “I did what I was supposed to do. I ain’t throwing anybody under the bus, but this is a competition.” Devin says “I learned my parts. I tried saving a couple of people.” Lazaro, once again, is full of excuses. “I didn’t know the words that well.” Oh my. It’s going to be mighty awkward back at the hotel tonight.
Burnell, Devin & Lazaro – Can’t Help Myself… by IdolxMuzic
Kree Harrison – “Don’t Play That Song (You Lied)” by Ben E. King/Aretha Franklin – Smokey is so blown away, he’s going to call Aretha to tell her to watch. A really earthy bluesy performance from Kree. I agree with Keith. Although she’s essentially a country singer, I love the way she nods to the genre’s blues roots. She perfectly fuses country, soul, rock and blues in her performance here. The only disappointment for me is that she didn’t take it farther. I wanted her to go a little nuts at the end–take it to church. She’s got the chops. I hope she’s not letting Jimmy and the judges get inside her head. Randy says, “To take on the Queen of Soul is a tough thing. You’re one of the best of the competition. This wasn’t a perfect performance…but you’re here to stay.” Mariah says, “I commend you for doing the song. I love you.” Keith loves that she reminds people of country’s bluesy roots. Did Nicki throw some shade to Mariah when she said, “…and when you did the Madonna song, you were up there, next to my darling Marshmallow, and you didn’t budge…when you can stand next to a beautiful woman who also sings, and not be insecure and confident in who you are, you’re a queen too.”– 1-866-436-5708
Kree Harrison – Don’t Play That Song – American… by IdolxMuzic
