American Idols Live! 2008 – Glendale AZ

Thanks so very much!!! Can’t wait.

THank you – I cant wait either

Thanks! I was just online to find out/figure out when it would all begin! So excited, can’t wait, and on and on….

Woo Hoo! Have fun, MJ!

I’m so excited too!

Add me to the list of excitement!
Shout out to Baxter- Three weeks tonight is our turn. :grin2_ee:

Man..I want to stay away from spoilers SO bad..but it’s so hard!

Can’t wait either! :jittery_tb:

Have a blast MJ…..

meme- Holy Crap it is 3 weeks. YAY!!!

Oh MJ, you’re my hero! Have a great time!

Fingers crossed for some good stuff. :smile_wp:

Have a great time MJ. Any chance this esteemed blogger will be getting backstage passes this year?

I doubt you’re reading this MJ – but make sure you enjoy yourself too – live blogging is great for us – but enjoy your concert experience.

I’m having flashbacks to this time last year. I miss you guys! I’m so glad you got to make it to the first show this year. I’m sure it will be a good one. I’m looking forward to the liveblog…and the videos!

Have fun mj- we’ll be hanging on every text!

I can’t wait!!!

Mj, Have a blast! Can’t wait for your live blog! :jittery_tb:

This isn’t really the place to be if you’re trying to stay away from spoilers. Especially considering that part of how MJ built her reputation in the first place is through spoilers.

Anyway! Can’t wait for the live blog! Yay for the tour!!

Hmmm! It is 7:52 here is it 6:52 there?????

Are we there yet LOL!

I’m waiting patiently to hear from MJ! Should be in about an hour! I hope she’s having a blast!

It’s only 6:08 there Less than an hour to go, though!

oh, just saw 10:00 ET, I will have to wait another hour for the start!

USA today is live-blogging too: http://blogs.usatoday.com/idolchatter/?loc=interstitialskip
They have some Brooke spoilers from dress rehearsal:

Inside, as a loudspeaker intones “No. 5,” a black grand piano rises up from beneath the stage with Brooke White at the keys. Wearing tall tan boots, dark tight jeans (a curious choice on a 112-degree day) and a blousy pink top cinched with a thick black belt, her hair pulled back halfway, she launches into Let It Be. Then she takes to the microphone with her guitar, strumming Feistà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s 1234, tweaking it with a bit of a twang and flashing one of her trademark grins while counting out the chorus with her fingers. She heads back to her piano bench and launches into an uptempo, almost unrecognizable version of Coldplay’s Yellow from, of course, beneath a yellow glow. (The song appeared on her pre-Idol album, Songs From the Attic.)

Soon after, two stand-ins walk through a performance of Pride (In the Name of Love) as images chockablock with children, culled from Idol Gives Back, flash on the screen behind. Is this perhaps a successor to Carly-Michael’s U2 duet?! (The two sang One on Ellen’s Chicago show.)

Feist at an Idols concert! This may be exactly what I need to convince my sister to attend a show….

I just saw all that, grrr and was bringing it over. That sounds like a fun set for Brooke! Yay!

A bit off topic but did you get everything fixed or come to a solution, Sarah?

It is 630 here

According to that USA blogger, Micheal Johns will record and then shop his album around which means he won’t be signed to 19R so it’s possible Kristy Lee Cook will be it for the season.

Screw that waiting for spoilers crap, lol.
Bring on the setlist!!

Interesting, it is possible he may shop it to 19E as well though.

I want Jason Castro spoilers! LOL
Brooke’s set sounds pretty awesome to me!

The fact that Johns is shopping his stuff to other labels means 19R has passed on him. At least that’s how I think it works. Anyway, that’s another discussion. It’s just that I got the info from the USA Today live blogger who did the Brooke spoilers.

Any bets on what new songs they will sing?

What the hell am I supposed to do for the next 17 minutes??? Dying here!

From the same USA blogger, Jason Castro says he has no record deal as of now.
“The Vans-clad Castro is refreshingly candid: “I have no record-label talks. 19 (Entertainment) told me one label showed a little interest but they werenà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t sure it would turn into anything.” No matter. Castro plans to make music 2008-style, with or without a record deal.”

According to USA Today, Jason IS singing his version of Ray LaMontagne’s version of “Crazy” and the final group number is Pride (In The Name of Love).

Awww. I am so sad about Michael and Jason. Especially Michael because he is my favorite.
I wanted him to succeed this time around in his life. Oh well. I will always have MJ’s videos and great voice to listen to.It’s a shame no one is giving him another chance. Sigh.

Sorry, you know how it is when your favorite is not signed.

Tahnks for the link, grrrr.

No label talks for Jason yet. I didn’t really expect any (yet), but still…Sigh.

OMG I am so excited for Brooke’s set. I love the cover she did on Yellow and now she’s finally gonna perform it live!!!

They can’t sign outside of 19 until three months after the finale. Shopping around doesn’t mean they won’t sign or go indie.

This is so fun! I’m so glad your there MJ!

I don’t like this Michael Johns news. It doesn’t sound promising to me.
I think Jason can get some success going indie because he has built up quite a fanbase and he is still young.

Brooke’s set sounds awesome!

Good Luck MJ, a big thank you!!

Can’t wait to see this for myself!!

It’s all going to be right here, right? Sorry, I’m a little impatient and I know MJ’s there working hard for all us!!! Yeah MJ!!!

Yes, it will be here. I haven’t heard from MJ yet. Will post as soon as I do!

I wanna hear about Carly..and what about the stage setup, etc.?

I feel sad that Jason knows that Kimberly Locke said he was “dumber than a box of rocks.” Someone should tell her that his SAT score was 1340. I wonder what hers was.

I hope Jason gets a record deal. Don’t those record companies know there are millions of us Jason fans waiting to buy his music?

Omg, why was I thinking I was gonna see stuff right at 10 on the dot? ::smacks self on forehead::
I am *trying* to wait patiently.
MJ and PJ FTW!

Well, while we’re waiting, can we make assumptions? Chikeze is first and we know he’s definitely doing a Donnie Hathaway song. And he gets 2 more, so what do you guys think they’ll be? I say he’s gotta do the Beatles song. But what else? Something not performed on the show?

Oh hell, nvm, its starting now! Yippee!!

WooHoo! It’s starting! Thanks MJ and PJ! You’re the best. I’ll be patiently silent for now.:)

so there will not be a new thread? I am reading on my blackjack ad just want to know where to refresh

A Blake video??? – Ummm, no thanks (I’m trying to be polite here)

A Blake video? Like a music video??

I didn’t know that Kimberly Locke said that about Jason!
Wow.

Either way, cooktard, he gives me the heevy jeevies.

I kinda like Kimberly. And I honestly dont think she meant to be hurtful. I think she just spoke before thinking. She was making the assumption of him being “dumb” by how he was perceived on the show. By JCas being goofy/laid back, she saw it as him being dumb. Poor assumption on her part, and I have a feeling she will retract it, as she should.

Good call on Chikezie, cooktard.

Chikezie sang Usher’s “Caught Up” not “Turn It Up”

I wish they would do an Idol concert as a Pay-Per-View for those that can’t make it to any of the shows *sigh*

They’re introducing them by their number? :huh_tb:

Dancers? JMO of course, but I am anti-dancer when it comes to my idols. I wanna see them and ONLY them.

Hey, someone’s gotta dance. The Idols certainly can’t.

http://mjsbigblog.com/?p=5070&cp=1

Article about Kimberly Locke. I hope she does retract it.

This is the first year my favorite actually won, and crap it sucks royally having to wait so long for their set *pouts*

MN Sue, for shame! They dont call my Cookie “Sugarfoot” for nuthin’ lol.

No way! Chikeze didnt do the Beatles song? Well thats just all kinds of wrong!

I thought it was going to me Micheal Johns corrupting Archie but according to that USA blog Jason is the one starting it. @_@

Rami – BGV? What does that stand for? Anyone?

I think they SHOULD go in order, its only fair really.
And omg, I honestly dont know if I will able to stay up for Cookie. I think I might fall out before his set, my eyes are already getting heavy. I’m such a weakling, ugh!

Back Ground Vocalist?

I may be sorry I talked my family into this – they’ll all be expecting songs at least similar to those done on the show. My 70-something folks won’t have a clue about Usher, Feist, Coldplay, or Lamontagne covers, etc. Oh well, they’ll get some sappy from Rami & Archie & Country from KLC (my potty break)so, they’ll be OK.

Thank.You.God.
MJ doing “its all wrong.” Life is good.

So Michael chose to do songs he’s done on AI already for all his three songs. Aww, I think his fans would’ve liked to hear his take on something new. Like perhaps the “Vision Of Love” we never got to see on Mariah week?

So all of MJ’s songs were from the show. I kinda thought he would do 2 from the show and a different one. Oh well. I like his choices best so far overall.

AHHHH, here comes Carly!

ewww. Why is Blake trying to horn in on this AI show. Tell him to get his own season!

KLC aka potty time, heh. I kid!
Is this an ACTUAL country song? Never heard it, and I know my country. Can anyone help with this?

KLC aka potty time, heh. I kid!
Is this an ACTUAL country song? Never heard it, and I know my country. Can anyone help with this?

I wonder how mixed the crowd is, I had a three year old boy sitting next to me at one of the AI concerts I went to. I wonder if the cheers and screaming are deafening. Are there signs??? Are people impatient to see their favorite Idol? How big is the crowd?

Sorry!! Inquiring minds just want to know.

Shit, sorry, didnt mean to post that twice. I didnt think it went thru the first time. Dammit.
Wonder if MJ caught a shirt, lol.

I’m probably the only one here who doesn’t have much love for MJ. I did love his It’s All Wrong but that is absolutely all I loved from him during Idol. I loved what he did after much more. He isn’t Freddie and can’t be and tries to channel him…I guess it just doesn’t work for me.

cooktard, I googled that song because I wondered the same thing, it came back as a Carolyn Dawn Johnson (Squeezin’ the Love Outta You)

Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m probably the only one here who doesnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t have much love for MJ.

No you’re not the only one. I liked him on the show, even though he was never my favorite. But off the show, he just lost me completely. He’s a little bit too loud and cocky for my taste. And in their group interviews, he tends to be somewhat of a ham. Not a big MJ fan here.

Sounds like they’ve gone back to the older format for the concert, which I liked better than all the group numbers they did last year. I am beginning to think I might want to see this one… or not!

There are a few who bad mouthed Michael in every forum they could
Different strokes for different folks. Just like brooke for me .
Her vocal range is 5 notes(she said herself on larry king). She lost me
with her constantly being annoyed at critcism and talking back. Overall
she is boring, and lacks performance skills, but her fans are still
talking about her i-tune sales. I’m glad Michael got the biggest cheers
and standing ovations that he did…….before he ever sang a note.
Keep rocking Michael!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Overall she is boring, and lacks performance skills, but her fans are still talking about her i-tune sales.

What does one have to do with the other?

Like you said, different strokes for different folks.

I’m glad Brooke got such a strong response. Apparently, her “Let It Be” garnered the biggest standing ovation yet. I can’t wait for Jason and David Cook’s sets.

Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m glad Michael got the biggest cheers
and standing ovations that he didà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.before he ever sang a note.
Keep rocking Michael!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I know I am so happy for him. According to USA Today almost all the crowd was standing on their feet when Mj was performing.
From Idol Chatter:

Poor Ramiele. She just canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t compete with Michael Johns, who brings the audience to their feet even before he sings, when the strains of We Will Rock You start pounding out from the band. He thrusts a power fist into the air, pauses and then: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve paid my dues, time after timeà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  So far, he is the champion of the concert. On the line à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“You gave me fame and fortune and everything that goes with it, and I thank you all,à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s clear heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s thanking the crowd. The result? A standing ovation. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Well, this is going to be fun. I appreciate it.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ 

The next song is à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“for the ladies out thereà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ : Dolly Parton’s Ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s All Wrong, But Ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s All Right, complete with lots of squinting eyes and head-shaking. He beckons the crowd to join him, and some oblige. Then: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Well, this song got me voted off American Idol, but I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t think ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s going to get me kicked off the tour. Ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s one of my favorites.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  His boot tapping, he dives into Aerosmith’s Dream On. Women sway in their seats. Michael shoots his right hand into the air, swaying it, and the audience mirrors him, roaring. Nearly the entire floor is on its collective feet. — O.B.

I loved that. Go MJ!.

PJ, do you feel like you going through labor at the impatient prodding of dozens of birth coaches? Right now, as I await word of Jason’s set, I feel like you are “crowning” and I can see his head.

Big thanks to you and MJ for sharing this with us.

Mj —the champion of the concert so far……OUTSTANDING!!!!!
Thanks for posting that

There are a few who bad mouthed Michael in every forum they could. Different strokes for different folks. Just like brooke for me . Her vocal range is 5 notes(she said herself on larry king). She lost me with her constantly being annoyed at critcism and talking back. Overall she is boring, and lacks performance skills, but her fans are still talking about her i-tune sales. Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m glad Michael got the biggest cheers and standing ovations that he didà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.before he ever sang a note. Keep rocking Michael!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

LOL. Somewhere, Brooke White is going “Hey! How the heck did I get in the middle of this! Oh, and Sunshine, Rainbows, Puppies and Happiness. It’s OK.” Hee.

I keed, I keed. I love Brooke, and I like to watch me some Hot Aussie. They both seem to be doing well tonight. I really am happy for all of them right now. The more time passes, the more I realize how much I like this group.

I like Jason’s set – he knows the uke is unique, we get a little Ray L, which shows his career direction, and then a shoutout to his daydreaming fans.

Ya tina…Brooke does seem like a good person. I hope they all have
fun on the tour and do well. I missed the source where Brooke got the
biggest ovation of the night tho. Davids are up next..

I somehow missed Kim Locke’s nasty dig at Jason. Ugh. That was all kinds of ungracious, to say the least — Blake Lewis has nothing on Kimberly Locke.

She was in or about to enter law school when she auditioned for AI2 and she always seemed like a smart girl. I also remember that she was dating the son of an AI producer while she was a contestant, which certainly wasn’t ethical but for AI probably par for the course. On AI Rewind 2, I was surprised at how bitter she was, especially towards Randy, about her top 3 elimination.

I keed, I keed. I love Brooke, and I like to watch me some Hot Aussie. They both seem to be doing well tonight. I really am happy for all of them right now. The more time passes, the more I realize how much I like this group.

Me too. Can’t wait to see that Hot Aussie and all of them for sure.

I missed the source where Brooke got the
biggest ovation of the night tho

http://blogs.usatoday.com/idolchatter/

With Brooke pumping the piano pedals barefoot, her hair a tangle of Medusa curls, Let It Be garners probably most crowd standing yet.

I somehow missed Kim Lockeà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s nasty dig at Jason. Ugh. That was all kinds of ungracious, to say the least à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  Blake Lewis has nothing on Kimberly Locke.

She was in or about to enter law school when she auditioned for AI2 and she always seemed like a smart girl. I also remember that she was dating the son of an AI producer while she was a contestant, which certainly wasnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t ethical but for AI probably par for the course. On AI Rewind 2, I was surprised at how bitter she was, especially towards Randy, about her top 3 elimination.

I have met Kimberley quite a few times since American Idol and she has always been very kind to myself, and those that have met her. She is thankful for the opportunity that American Idol has given her, and she will be the first to tell you that. I completely understand where people are coming from about her remarks towards Jason. However, she has always been a straight talker and if you like it, you like it and if not.. then oh well. She’s very open and honest with her opinions, and her fans love her for that. You have to remember that not everyone is going to have the same opinion on a contestant as you do. You have to take it for what it is, and move on.

WHERE IS SYESHA’S 3RD SONG “LISTEN” BY BEYONCE… I HEARD IT WAS FREAKING INCREDIBLE

WOW….we now get KL’s press releases at MJ’s. MJ, girl, you have made it!!!

iloveidol, patience. I didn’t get a report of her third song. I texted and asked. When I get a report, it will be posted.

Castrocopia has Jason’s audio up and the boy can sang.

But the crack thread hos already knew that, didn’t we?

David Cook is singing “HELLO” His best…………..

EEEEEE Cookiee!!! Wow TOML he isnt closing with??

guess he isn’t. He still has 3 songs right?
The show is lasting over 3 hours?? Is that typical?

iloveidol, patience. I didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t get a report of her third song. I texted and asked. When I get a report, it will be posted.

On USA Today they said it was “Listen” from Dreamgirls but they didn’t say if it was good.

“You have to remember that not everyone is going to have the same opinion on a contestant as you do. You have to take it for what it is, and move on.”

Which I have for one, I used to take the time to look her up but I have moved on. She made an ignorant remark and I can just imagine how SHE must have felt when people called her fat and all of that back then. I guess she forgot how it feels to be hurt – she is just so BIG now – oooh what is she on? That fat farm thing, Dont forget the lyrics. Well this is not the time or place really – cant wait to hear about Cooks set – glad MJ, “Brooke and “dum” Jason did so well. I was just kidding about the dum Jason, I took the time as I did for Locke in the past to find out what he was really about and who is really is.

Oh Terrie hi and YES – this crackhead already knew Jason could sing, I cannot wait to hear David C and the rest!!

OMG I Dont Wanna Miss a Thing! He’s singing the crap out of it!

He will sing TOML tonight and everynight on the tour. It’s a given that the winner sings the corination song. I really like it so I’m happy. I just listened to Fantasia’s song and it also has rainbows but even a pot of gold and it’s a good song too. I guess I just happen to like rainbows.(and DC)

don’t wanna miss a thing? I can’t stand that song.
why waist a song on that? is Diane Warren involved in his Album and this is pay off??

Cookie said Adam’s tumor has stopped growing! That is wonderful news!

He’s singing Hero but this feed is getting just awful.

My Hero followed by the news about Adamn, damn.

I couldn’t hear what DC said about Adam, but, yes, this is wonderful news. There have been many prayers going up for him.

tinawina, i don’t know, my sister is there and said that it was amazing and that she should’ve sung that song on the show… i was also able to hear it live on her cell, although i couldn’t hear much because everyone was so loud. She said it was her favorite, but then again Cook hadn’t performed yet.

It’s Adam that has cancer, Andrew is the younger brother. I bet you knew that, just typed it wrong.

That is wonderful indeed. Hopefully that means he will be in remission
now. I’m so happy for Adam, David and all their family..

You have to remember that not everyone is going to have the same opinion on a contestant as you do. You have to take it for what it is, and move on.

I can understand if Kim is dishing the dirt with her fans off the record, but her quote was published with her consent, read by Jason’s mother and relayed to Jason. Obviously, it bothered Jason enough that he mentioned it to Ken Barnes of USA Today. That was a gratuitous public attack comparable to Simon criticizing Kim about her weight. You will find lots of people willing to defend Simon’s insults, too, but not me.

AND he closes with Billie Jean! Now thats how you end a show! It’s the long version he’s doing and..just..damn!

Billie Jean

I can understand if Kim is dishing the dirt with her fans off the record, but her quote was published with her consent, read by Jasonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s mother and relayed to Jason. Obviously, it bothered Jason enough that he mentioned it to Ken Barnes of USA Today. That was a gratuitous public attack comparable to Simon criticizing Kim about her weight. You will find lots of people willing to defend Simonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s insults, too, but not me.

Well, i’m not going to argue with you. It’s not the first, and definately won’t be the last time that he is attacked. He better get some thick skin to last in the business.

Damn this is concert night, not Kim Locke dissed Jason! Guess what, it’s Jason who is appearing before thousands tonight! Sweet right?

so no “Always be my Baby”. this is a joke!

Please Dont Stop the Music!

Group number: Please Don’t Stop The Music.

It’s over.

Damn this is concert night, not Kim Locke dissed Jason! Guess what, ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s Jason who is appearing before thousands tonight! Sweet right?

Yep, and singing his heart out to audience screams.

Hi, Sumidol! Are you still going to the San Diego show? I’m green with envy. :sick_ee:

I was surprised to hear that there was no ABMB, but you know, Cook had enough big moments that one was probably going to get drop-kicked. Sounds like he might have chose slower moments as bookends, more “rocker” songs in the middle.

What style was ToML? Regular? Tonight Show? Walmartian?

Please Dont Stop The Music!!! I love it I love it – I watch that with my new fav show dancers over and over! NO Terrie – Waaaaaaa – I was supposed to go to San Diego tomorrow and cannnnnttttt waaaaaaa. Kids come first kids come first kids come first kids come first – ok I feel better NOT Will someone please fly me to Missouri or something in August when I CAN go???

Mj and all you are the best to bring this to those who are not able to make it!!!!

Thanks thanks

Walmartian – you funny Jenn

Adored Archie performs, plus the coming of Cookie
The crowd is just done mouthing the words to Robbie Williams’ Angels when Archie ascends the stairs. As far as theyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re concerned, he has no need to apologize for his smooth rendition of OneRepublic’s Apologize. Little kids with Archie T-shirts are out of their seats and creeping closer to the stage, their eyes wide. From down here on the floor, Archie looks, per the lyrics, 10 feet off the ground. Then: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“This next song, Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢d like to dedicate it to everyone hereà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ : Ben E. King’s Stand by Me (complete with interwoven snippet from Sean Kingston’s Stand by Me-borrowing Beautiful Girls). The night may have come, according to the first verse, but Archieà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s aglow in front of a sun-lit screen. Then a When You Say You Love Me setup: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“This oneà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s about when you love someone and how much that means.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  Which garners and immediate and exuberant à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“We love you!à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  from the girls below. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“I love you, too,à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  responds a sheepish Archuleta. Camera phones compete with glow sticks as mini-Archie spotlights. Archie brings even a middle-aged guy clapping to his feet.

à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“This guy is pretty much amazing, so enjoy the wild ride,à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  says Archie, introducing Cookie. From the floor, standing is required to catch a glimpse of the Hello belter, wearing a (sleeveless) Sergeant Pepper-esque military vest. His brotherà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s black à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“ACà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  monogram emblazons his white guitar. Guys affectionately pat girls on the back. The stage goes dark. And then: violet light. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“So. Howà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re you guys doing tonight?à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  Archie-rivaled squealing ensues.

That’s okay. Some day Kimberley will be on the same stage as Jason, for a benefit show, probably. She will become “Jasonized” on the spot, then feel sick that she ever spoke of him in a demeaning way.

Nevermind….

thanks MJ for the info!

Cook sang both of my favorites!! Billy Jean and Hello – oh I can just picture it. Did you hear the screaming as Jason sang Terrie? I could cry like a proud mother – I am so proud of my adopted son

I don’t think that I can take credit for Walmartian, but I’m not sure from where I picked it up?

The songs that were redone from the show: full-length, or shorter? Specifically, was Hello full-length? Because we never got to hear that….

Also, I just realized that Archie didn’t sing Imagine. Now that’s one I would have bet on….

Wow, this setlist is REALLY making me question whether I want to actually go to this concert. I am greatly disappointed that there are no duets. I much, much prefer the season 6 format to this. I honestly cannot emphasize how much.

I agree Sarah. What was this director thinking? So much of this looks so mediocre. Not a lot of upbeat numbers and no duets. Not encouraging at all. The season 6 tour format was much better.

I’m disappointed about the lack of duets, too. The highlight of the Season 5 tour for me was the Daughtry/Elliott duet of Savin’ Me. It was all kinds of awesome. I would have loved to have heard Archie and Cookie duet on Hero (Heroes?) Or Michael/Carly, etc.

And doesn’t it seem odd that the winner gets the exact same amount of stage time as the runner-up? You would think there would be an extra bonus something from the winner.

Could Cookie be saving ABMB for his record tour in the fall??????

And doesnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t it seem odd that the winner gets the exact same amount of stage time as the runner-up? You would think there would be an extra bonus something from the winner.

Cookie did 5 songs, Archie did 4. That’s not the exact same amount of stage time at all.
Also – somewhat surprised about IDWTMAT, but hardly disappointed. It fit better than ABMB with the rest of the set, and it’s a crowd pleaser without a doubt.
Also guessed he would do “My Hero”. It was great that he dedicated it to Adam after sharing the good news.

Cook’s set list sounds awesome! Which version of TOML did he do? Great to hear he did a rocked out version of My Hero although the acoustic one is also fantastic.

Incredibly GREAT news about Adam. The family must feel so good.

IDWMAT is a crowd pleaser…people know it. I really like the Aerosmith version but love reading at various sites that DC’s version tonight totally ROCKED!

Have a feeling there will be a Diane Warren song on his record.

I wonder if they’ll alter the setlist at different tour stops?

Hey… how about that group performance they were rehearsing on the videos? The “Where Is The Love” one? They didn’t do that?

This is from USA Today:

After he jogs around the stage, a very dark and very pregnant pause ensues. Then, like Michael Jackson at the Grammys oh-so-many years ago, thereà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s a theatrical entrance: Cookie solo at the stageà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s edge, standing in front of a literal smokescreen (psychedelic smoke images are billowing on the wall behind him) — just him, his guitar, a mike and Billie Jean.

For me, that makes it worth the price of admission.

I have a feeling Cookie will change up TOML each time.

I’m wondering if he’ll do ABMB on other nights, or if he’s saving it for the album.

Hmmmm.

There were NO duets or trios, which kind of surprised me. The songs were all full lenght. TOML was done with the band. Cookie didn’t perform any acoustic songs.

Everybody sounded really good. Except Ramie. She kinda stunk. She was off key–very amature. Even Kristy Lee stepped it up tonight. Still, I kinda missed the group numbers and duets. Good show though

Could we stop talking about Kimberley Locke in this thread? If I’d been around, I would have deleted the link to that article.

I will repeat this one more time.

HEADLINES BELONG IN THE HEADLINES THREAD.

Heyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦ how about that group performance they were rehearsing on the videos? The à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Where Is The Loveà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  one? They didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t do that?

I had my suspicions it might be a foil.
So – only 2 group numbers, right? And only one with all top 10?
If I could actually go to this concert, It’d be just for the last 6 songs… but it’d still be worth it.
Sounds like a great DC set, and I can’t wait to see some videos from that and from “Don’t Stop The Music”.

Thanks MJ…are you going to write a longer recap?

Duh, I obviously can’t count. LOL

I doubt they will change the setlist unless a song just isn’t meshing with one of the performers. I think it’s happened before, but pretty rare.

I agree, Geek4vocab, about possibly saving ABMB for the album.

The USA today blog said that Cookie had a guitar during Billie Jean, did he do the guitar solo?

Yes, I will write up a longer recap, I have pictures and a few videos.

A HUGE GIANT thank you to PJ for transcribing! . She did an AWESOME JOB

Who got standing ovations besides Michael and Carly?

There was a third Syesha song. She introduced it as a song that meant a lot to her. It was a huge ballad…The crowd responded really well to it.

Yippee!!!!!! a longer recap, pics and videos…you’re awesome for doing this MJ!!!!

Are you allowed to take pictures at the concert?

Who got standing ovations besides Michael and Carly?

LOL I’m not playing “applause-o-meter” game.

I would say Michael got the first big ovation of the night. Most of the Idols had people standing on their feet at one time or another. The crowd responded really well to brooke, even though her songs were kind of mellow. Same with jason. The crowd stood all the way through the David’s performances, pretty much. It was a good crowd. Archie looked ELATED to be performing…he was really in his element. Cookie was excited too, he kept saying things like “You guys are awesome” and “This is awesome, this is great”. Cook’s set was rock all the way, no acoustic numbers.

Are you allowed to take pictures at the concert?

Yes… No video, though. However, that did not stop me.

Syesha’s 3rd song was “Listen” from Dreamgirls.

My question is how was Carly?? Did she belt the crud out of the songs? Did she sound like a professional? Is some people who did not like her on the show changed their thoughts?

Thanks in advance!!!!

LOL…No “applause meter” necessary…wouldn’t put you in that position…we heard alot of it over the net but it’s tough when you can’t see it, ya know?! Sounds like most of them got a good response!

My question is how was Carly?? Did she belt the crud out of the songs?

Yes she did! She made her entrance at the top of the stairs, she had a FREAKING WIND MACHINE blowing her hair! LOL! She looked great, she was whipping her hair around, and she sang the crap out of her songs. Yes. The crowd responded very well to her.

She started “Crazy on You” sort of kneeling/sitting on the stage and she sang very slowly and then totally rocked it out.

Awesome that you didn’t let that stop you from getting vids or pics, MJ. And thank YOU for making the trip and being able to live blog, take vids/pics all at the same time. :=)

Yay Carly! I wanna see some video of that. She can sing! Glad to hear Archie was in his element. Was a bit worried about how he would adapt. I knew the crowd would be supportive….I can’t wait for the video. Wanna hear David’s apologize. Sorry to hear about Rami, but I sorta thought that she would be the weakest link. *Sigh*

Thanks again for your work, mj and pj, to get this info to us. I’m glad to hear you enjoyed the show, mj. It’s a bit reassuring, but I’m still not sure it’s worth the price of admission for me.

Glad to hear Brooke and Jason got support in the “arena” setting even though they are so coffeeshop. Ahem.

Carly can sing. Sounds like she wants to rock out. Wish she had stuck to an identity on the show, rather than flail all over the place in a misguided attempt to please Simon. She may have done better.

I’m agree with others about missing the duets. Oh, and Cook and Castro backing up Carly on drums and guitar would have been sweet. Sigh.

Thanks mj for texting while watching a concert and pj for transcribing everything .

Looking forward to the longer recap.

Are you allowed to take pictures at the concert?

Yesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦ No video, though. However, that did not stop me.

For some reason MJ’s response really cracks me up! LOL

Eep! Don’t get too excited for the video. I only got about 3 songs. None of archie or carly. I got pictures of everyone.

That’s more than okay. As long as we get one of your great recaps I am sure that video will be up on youtube by dawn, if not before. Idol fans are an industrious bunch. Sounds like this is going to be a fun tour.

The crowd responded really well to brooke, even though her songs were kind of mellow. Same with jason.

Yeah I’m glad they got good responses in a big venue even if they are very mellow laid back artists…

I really hope you have videos of “Yellow” and “Crazy”… I am SO looking forward to seeing these performances.

If they allow picture-taking, I’m not sure how they would be able to prevent video recording as well.

MJ, did you get any video performance of David Cook?

MJ, I hope it’s alright to post links to other sites with recaps here as we await your own recap…

Glendale Thoughts & Review, from those who were there (from david-cook.org)

Just returned from the Idoland Love fest in Glendale tonight. The show was amazing and I enjoyed all of the performances.

Walking into the arena, I spotted the Guitar Hero commercial on the jumbotron featuring David Cook. Gotta make you smile! It felt like old home week!
The Arena was nearly packed with fans of all ages, Men included. I was sitting in the center section, row 9. (Thanks to MJ for selling me the extra ticket.)

The sets were bright, flashy and complimented each singer. The screen would flash #10, then list the singer, CHICKEZIE. The rest of the idols followed in descending order. Big Star powered announcement for all.

#10) Chickezie was in great voice, dancing and working the stage with lots of energy. Wish I had recognised the songs.

#9) Ramiele looked great and sang well too. My fav was, by Jackson 5, “I Want You Back.”

#8) Michael Johns makes a dynamic entrace singing Queen’s, “We Will Rock You.”
Those 4 words were alternately lighting the back screen as he was singing them. I tried to catch a picture with the back screen bolting “Rock” as he was singing. I think I only got “Will” with my camera. Lots of waving hands and cameras held high ahead of me, dodging and weaving. Timing the picture was key tonight. Timing and a really good camera with a big telephoto lens was needed. The crowd loved MJ singing, “Dream On.” He had us on our feet and cheering!

#7) KLC looked like a star with a silver sequin top, white jeans and cowboy boots. She let loose with some rock energy that I had not seen before. Nice touch! She is doing her homework and will do great in Nashville.

#6) Carly was gorgeous with the wind blowing her hair! She wore a gold and black sparkly halter top with leather leggings and Black patent leather knee boots. Loved her song, “I Drove All Night” even more that Celine’s version. Made me remember how much I liked her performances. Girl has STAR quality!

#5) Brooke surprised me by singing, “Yellow.” It was a good fit for her. Yes, she looked beautiful too. Lots of curly hair flying.

#4) Biggest surprise of the night was finally hearing Jason Castro’s audition song, “Crazy” by Jason Mraz. He said he had to sing it about 25 times just to audition, but never got to sing it on the show. For me, it was his best song.
He sang it with a new depth and intensity that I had not heard in his voice before.
Jason upped the wardrobe with red boots and a jacket too. Crowd showed him lots of love. Girls sqeeling with glee.

#3) Syesha looked amazing. Damn, I want those silver rhinestone ankle strap, high heel sandals she wore tonight. Had to set her back a few house payments at least. Mini dress and Drop dead gorgeous. My fave song was, “Umbrella”. She belted out the last song, but I didn’t recognise it. Yes, I want to see Syesha on Broadway.

#2) David Archuleta sang exceptionally well and seemed grown up to me since watching him on the show. While he is being raised on the platform playing piano and singing, “Angels,” the smoke machine puffs these clouds that surround him, making him seem like he was floating on a cloud. Great touch. “Stand by Me” got my vote since he changed it a bit and added some cool dance moves! Archie’s got some dance rythum!

#1) David Cook brought it tonight big time. He kept looking around the crowd, taking it all in and thanking us for our votes and support.
He worked the crowd well too, waving and interacting with a few fans. Tossed the guitar picks out to the crowd. Caught a red baseball cap someone tossed, then tossed it back. Caught a black t-shirt someone threw him and tossed it over his shoulder.
He was amped when he sang, “Hero” and totally rocked it out. Especially after his good news arrived today about his brother, Adam. Loved hearing him sing, “Billie Jean” in person.

The finale included all the idols singing, “Please Don’t Stop the Music.”

Hoped we would see some duos tonight, but it didn’t happen.

Was it everything I expected? YES!! It was everything and more and well worth the wait. I was thrilled to see the singers perform and truly enjoy themselves. It was a nice relaxed feeling and it brought out the best in everyone. Every single idol thanked the audience at least once for their support or for making their dreams come true. It was heartfelt to hear firsthand.

I caught up with mj during the break and got to see her magic blogging skills at work. How she was able to type in the dark on a tiny screen is beyond me.
Good Job mj for capturing this concert so well. I can’t wait to see your pictures.

I am downloading my pictures tomorrow to myspace page and will share the link as soon as I complete the task.
Sitting next to me at the concert were 2 Women wearing “Archie Angel” T-shirts. We high-fived the Davids after they saw my David Cook hometown hero t-shirt. See, it was a Love Fest!!
They promised to send me some of their pics also. Fair to mention the zoom lens on their camera was about 10 inches long. No match for my Kodak EZ Share 5.0.

The DC shirt was ordered from this link. A portion of the proceeds go to American Cancer society. ($18. included shipping to me.)
link.http://www.myfoxkc.com/myfox/pages/Home/Detail;jsessionid=1F7F45A0EE3A0DACC1C220598AE9697C?contentId=6521594&version=9&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=TSTY&pageId=1.1.1&sflg=1
Several people stopped me to ask where I got it.

After the concert, I took a quick look at the AI souvenier stand. They had individual pictures of each idol, programs ($25), T-shirts were $35-45. Mostly American Idol tour branded merchandise and less individual idol items. I think I saw a David Cook shirt, but I don’t believe all the idols had their own shirts for sale. The line to see the merchandise was 5 rows deep at the end of the show. There was a glass case with merchandise, but I couldn’t get close enough to spy inside. Sorry, peeps.

Hope you all get to see the show and I look forward to hearing your recaps as well.

Here’s Archie singing “Stand By Me”. Lower your volumes. Lots of fan girl screams.

Thanks for the recap, Colleen. Glad that you had a great time at the show and got to meet mj, too.

Biggest surprise of the night was finally hearing Jason Castroà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s audition song, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Crazyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  by Jason Mraz.

You must have meant Gnarles Barkley. I certainly would love to hear JCas do a Jason Mraz (who I heart, heart, heart!) number someday, though.

For the Archie fans…

Archie – Apologize video

some Archie pics

I’m not a big DA fan and I think what he is wearing is fugly…but he sounds really really good!!!! Enjoyed both of the performances and thought his little dance during all you beautiful girls part was really cute!

Well done Archie!

Thanks Colleen. Great to read what everyone has to say.

MJ, did you get any video performance of David Cook?

I’m sure mj managed that. And she takes the best videos!

For a little Cookie teaser, though, there’s a short youtube clip of Billie Jean up.

Just found this partial version of “Billie Jean” by DC tonight.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aerq6nB7nuI
At least you can see the cool effect with the red lights and smoke machine effects.

Well, after KLC came out, I couldnt get this fucking page to refresh for the life of me, and finally gave up and went to bed. I hate my life. Now I’m trying to get caught up on spoilers and read everyone’s posts before work.
Hope all went well, here I go!

Fuck Me! Does he not look absolutely gorgeous in that photo!! Sweet Jesus!

uh thanks for the teaser purplesmile…and a teaser it is!

Ok real quick, then I gotta get ready for work!
Jason’s set sounds all kinds of awesome.
Syesha’s set was sweet. I love that Beyonce song. I was considering a bathroom/souvenir break for this point in the show, but I’m staying put now!
Wonder what happened to ABMB, Cookie said himself that was gonna be one of the 5 songs.
IDWMAT was one of my least fave songs he did (not performance-wise, just song-wise). But if he killed it, then bring it on!
And.. PDSTM.. Just tell me Cookie swung his hips like he did on the show? Please?
Cant wait for the rest of the recap/pics/videos!
MJ/PJ you guys are kickass, thank you.

There’s an account of the Brooke set (and pics) from a Brooke fan here.

Thanks for all of this info! It makes me wish I had purchased tix for the NJ show!

Here’s a full Billie Jean from utube posted about 30 minutes ago. Sound not great but he’s rockin’!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ygGU_DdiKNc

Hope this works!

Thanks mj and pj for all you did last night! I know there’s not much video, but I’m looking forward to what you have! Love Jason’s “Crazy”.

Concert sounds like all kinds of awesome and I can’t wait for them to get to Detroit!
Thanks for the live blog & all your comments, MJ, will look forward to your recap.
And Coleen thanks for the post too.

Gotta go to work – drat – would rather play on the computer all day today! LOL

DC ROCKED Billy Jean- you can tell even though the video’s sound quality is total crap…am hoping for better sound quality form MJ.

It’s fun to hear about the concert since I’m not going until late next month. I’m happy that Michael was so well received! Here’s a link him singing IAWBIAR. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jh0ti4HNTD4

I can’t wait to read more recaps as the tour continues.

Thanks for the minute by minute updates! Made my night! Wondering if anyone went to the meet and greet? or got to see the idols after the concert?

So…no duets at all?

Wonder if that was at the election of the cast or the producers? Or maybe they were such car crashes in rehearsal no one wanted to bring them out live?

I had the same problem as cooktard76 so thank you for everone with all the snippets and recaps!!! I can’t wait for MJ’s write up!

I didn’t like Archie’s appologize at first but when I listened a second time, I thought he sounded great! I think it was the whole getting Tedders version out of my head thing. I LOVED the way he sped up SBM in one part! I’m glad he did well because rockers always get the crowd on their feet so I felt for him.

I reallllly want to hear Yellow by Brooke. When I have time, I’m going snooping!

I reallllly want to hear Yellow by Brooke. When I have time, Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m going snooping!

You and I both! I hope a video surfaces soon!

Oh yeah, I should have said, Thank you to PJ also! :thumbup_tb: :thumbup_tb:

Soà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦no duets at all?

Wonder if that was at the election of the cast or the producers? Or maybe they were such car crashes in rehearsal no one wanted to bring them out live?

Yeah, the various group pairings from the AI6 tour were so much fun, I was hoping they would continue doing that. So only two group numbers, eh? Maybe they will tweak the format a bit in these first few shows. I was hoping for a Jason/Brooke duet at least!

I’m sure I’ll sound like a huge stinker here, but I’m going to say my bit anyway.

I’m really un-thrilled by this format. It seems similar to S5, but at least in S5, each Idol was part of a duet with another. That’s why the tour last year for S6 was so much fun…there were so many random numbers, random pairings, the guys being a “band,” etc. between the solo acts. It was especially nice to intersperse that kind of stuff with the less popular contestants’ solo sets so the crowd didn’t get too bored.

I wish they had put Brooke in the 2nd half so I could just show up at intermission. I really don’t care much for the people who finished 6-10. I thought maybe they’d at least do some interesting duets or something.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m still excited to go and see Jason, DC, and Brooke, but this just doesn’t sound as cool as last year.

Switched up Billie Jean so that it’s almost a mash up of the studio and live versions from during the show. Very nice.

Question about the stage set-up: Is it like AI6 where the middle part of the stage juts out so that there are no rows 1 through 5 for seating in the center?

Yeah, the various group pairings from the AI6 tour were so much fun, I was hoping they would continue doing that. So only two group numbers, eh? Maybe they will tweak the format a bit in these first few shows. I was hoping for a Jason/Brooke duet at least!

Oh, you and I both. I thought for sure they were going to pair Michael and Carly up again somehow, which I wouldn’t have minded, either. It would have been nice, too, if they also did a Patience-like number like the guys did in the AI5 tour (sorry…this is what I still remember because I didn’t really follow the AI6 tour).

I’ll take what I can get from this batch, though.

Here is a short version of My Hero here.

“pics and recap of the magnificent hotness that is david cook” (not my words, heh)

The rest of livehead’s pics are here.

Hereà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s a full Billie Jean from utube posted about 30 minutes ago. Sound not great but heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s rockinà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ygGU_DdiKNc

That’s (literally) smokin’! ;D

More Idol tour pics here. (They’re distant and dark shots, though…I’m really excited to see mj’s pics. Sucking up aside, her photos are awesome. )

pssst… mj… are you awake yet? WELL IF YOU ARE, WE’RE WAITING!!!!… i mean, sleep sweet. we can be patient a little longer….

Omg, Billie Jean! That may be the sexiest rock performance I’ve ever heard, even with the bad sound. Jeez louise. A whole lot of preteens went straight to puberty upon hearing that, lol. THAT was an adult version. Wow, I would sit through three hours of everybody else just to see/hear that live.

What a concert he’s going to put on some day, whoa.

Never mind the post about articles in the Headlines thread. I now realize it was Ken Barnes Live blog from last night, which would be on topic for this thread. Sorry!

OH MY GOD that Billie Jean video :jittery_tb: I have goosebumps! That high note! That might be the best ending number for a winner ever OMG unbelievable. What a star! I need my sanity back!

Finally! My AI Live tour photos from Last night in Glendale are up on my myspace page. I call this photo series, AI Live! A view from my Concert Seat!
Give my Kodak EZ Share 5.0 digital camera with limited zoom power, you will see some far away photos of the stage and my 92 observations.

Dark lights were a problem with some of the photos, so forgive me if I wasn’t able to capture what you were hoping to see. What you will see is the audience in front of me and their excitement. If you want to get a vibe and feel from the show, it’s worth a look-see. They aren’t professional close-up shots, but are a great reminder of the concert I got to see from my seat.
You can see them at:
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewPicture&friendID=179458029&albumId=1523389

If you make it to #47 photo, you can laugh with me at the dorky shot of me with the POP TART mascot at half-time.
I am still wearing my David Cook t-shirt. Hanging on to the last bit of the wonderful concert experience.

Hope you all enjoy the Love-fest as much as I did!!

TheBeckert’s Glendale recap