Idol Headlines for 4/11/08

The allmusic.com critics have their AI blog up for Wednesday’s show. This season, they’ve had a pretty boring format for their reviews, but today they’ve returned to a round-table discussion, and it’s very fun; it reads a lot like this blog.

Be warned, they hate David Cook, like they hated Daughtry before him.

http://blog.allmusic.com/2008/4/10/american-idol-take-idol-gives-back-please/

My Fox KC

Small interview with Michael… I’m still ticked…..

Someone in IdolForums says that her husband saw Dolly Parton on Fox this morning, and Dolly is so shocked Michael Johns got voted off that she wants to sign him to a record deal herself!

Personally, right from the beginning, I have always thought of M. J. as someone who can’t sing, but who has been allowed to hang around because of the hotness factor, and the Australian accent, though he did have great song choices, too.

I have never heard him sing once where I did not think he was singing flat, i.e. not hitting his notes right on… “pitchy” (Apparently, Randy notices sharp notes, but not flat ones.) I thought he should have gone a long time ago.

It’s really the ascots that did him in. Apparently, that’s the new fashion in Hollywood. Nixes the hotness factor.

The Fox press release confirms that it’s Mariah songs next week:

On Tuesday, April 15 (8:00-9:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed), the Top 7 finalists (Brooke White, Carly Smithson, David Archuleta, David Cook, Jason Castro, Kristy Lee Cook and Syesha Mercado) will return to the Idol stage to perform songs by Mariah Carey.

I don’t think I’ll even try to speculate on this one since I don’t know a Mariah song and can’t get thru a 30 second snippet on iTunes. I hope one of the girls gets sent packing for trying to out-Mariah Mariah. I want a smoldering, “Hello”-like ballad from DC. Does Archie have any Mariah songs on YouTube? He seems more like a Whitney boy.

I’m glad that Michael is getting some love from Dolly. He’ll be fine. He is getting much attention for his shocking boot.

I def agree on the ascots. I saw some early interview with Blake where he was wearing a bandana around his neck. I think that helped do in his album. Idols – neckware is not your friend.

American Idol Fans Outraged Over Seacrestà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s Cruelty To Michael Johns

…In what could be Seacrestà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s cruelest tease ever on American Idol, he said, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“That means Michael has the lowest number of votes this week. Now, last year during Idol Gives Back, we didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t eliminate anybody at this stage of the competition.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ 

However, many fans are just as upset over the way the elimination was handled as the elimination itself. A common theme of complaints is that making Michael Johns think he might have a chance of continuing on the show was cruel and inappropriate, especially considering it came in a week where Idol was promoting charity and giving…

Reality TV Magazine

Boo, Ryan. However, in that foxkc interview IGC posted, it seems like Michael has no bad feelings for Ryan. I’m not as forgiving (even though I generally like Ryan). Hmph.

I am also still upset at the prospect of having no more Michael on the show from hereon, but I agree Dream On was a good song for him to go out on. I certainly look forward to an album from Michael and it is comforting to know that he already has at least one prospective record deal (I hope the Dolly statement is true).

Ah, geez, I don’t know if I can sit through an hour of Mariah Carey songs.

How odd that they would do a Mariah week after 7 years of telling people not to sing Whitney, not to sing Mariah….

What on earth was Elliot thnking in that interview??

Hey, we sat through Mariah herself, certainly we can give the kids we like a shot at it. Can’t be worse, can it? Lol. I was once a big mariah fan. Well I liked her first cd. My favorite song from her was Vision of Love, Syesha or Carly should tackle that, instead they will fight over hero. Syesha should do Butterfly instead. We Belong Together might be good for Brooke, stripped down….eh. I am really clueless, but whenever I think the night will suck, it doesn’t and when I have hope it does.

I am angry about MJs departure last night, but I am not surprised in the light of day. Coming out of auditions he was the one to beat and surprisingly never totally found his way, but the time he sorta did, others had surpassed him. He really lost because of the David C surge. Fans who had been voting for him and DC probably just voted for DC because they were worried about his subpar performance.

In the other thread someone quoted another blogger asking who was voting for Syesha. I guess that would be me, lol. And my daughters, and evidently alot of people in NYC if busy signals are any indications. We were spliting our votes among 4 people and the busiest was hers, we were getting through for the Davids fairly easily. I vote for her because I actually like the way she does exactly what I wouldn’t advise her to and then she actually surprises me by being okay. And then there is the protectiveness thing, to me she is the ultimate underdog, so I throw her a few votes. Sorry nameless blogger, I didn’t know there was an edict against voting for idol contestants. LOL!

Because I don’t have one single favorite this year, this whole season, I have been splitting my votes up between those 3 or 4 I liked, including Michael. This past week, I finally got down to it and spent most of my time voting for Brooke.

Besides not seeming to be able to settle on a musical identity, one problem MJ had, I think, is that a lot of people liked him but he wasn’t necessarily their first choice. Now that we’re getting down to brass tacks, people may be spending more time voting for their top favorite.

Some fun boot/performance order stats.

80% of the final bootees have sung in the first half of the show.
40% of the final bootees sang first

First to Sing (Death Spot)
Week 1: David H/Kristy
Week 2: Michael/Carly
Week 3: Luke/Asia’h
Week 4: Syesha
Week 5: Amanda
Week 6: Ramiele
Week 7: Brooke
Week 8: Michael

Never Been First: David A., David C., Jason C.
Been First Twice: Michael
Weeks Since Last First: DavidA/DavidC/Jason (-), Kristy (8), Carly (7), Syesha (5), Brooke (3)

Last to Sing (Pimp Spot)
Week 1: Michael/Carly
Week 2: David A/Asia’h
Week 3: Chikezie/Syesha
Week 4: David A
Week 5: Ramiele
Week 6: David C
Week 7: Michael
Week 8: Brooke
Never Been Last: Jason C, Kristy
Been Last Twice: David A, Michael
Weeks Since Last Last: Jason/Kristy (-), Carly (8), Syesha (6), David A (5), David C (3), Brooke (1)

Next week is final 7….since Nigel loves his schtick…no matter how tired, old, predictable and lame…who is going to pick a group?

I predict it will be Jason. They need to start de-pimping him and he’s seen as the “sweet, slightly clueless one”. Interesting that he’s the only contestant to neither sing first or last. Interesting that the only David to ever sing first was Hernandez.

You know, in figure skating, they love the “Battle of the ” Brians, Carmens, etc. I would not be surprised to learn that Nigel watches figure skating.

I’m still so shocked and sad this morning. I knew deep down after the Nigel comments that the worst was coming, but that crap Ryan pulled still has me infuriated. Damn if I didn’t burst into tears though when Simon told Michael what a nice guy he is and that he would miss him.

Boo, Ryan. However, in that foxkc interview IGC posted, it seems like Michael has no bad feelings for Ryan. Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m not as forgiving (even though I generally like Ryan). Hmph.

He’s a better person than I am then because Ryan is now dead to me.

Someone in IdolForums says that her husband saw Dolly Parton on Fox this morning, and Dolly is so shocked Michael Johns got voted off that she wants to sign him to a record deal herself!

This would be probably the best thing that could happen to him. Dolly seemed to really genuinely like him. I wondered if she meant it when she said she wanted to write songs for him.

Oh Sciencefan—I thought MJ did a fabulous job—and I wasn’t even a fan! Actually gave me chills AND he had the added bonus of being really different. I am very surprised–and so disappointed–in this vote off.

However…sure called attention to the fading AI, didn’t it???

Thanks Kristen.

Next week, I think Kristy Lee opens, and Carly closes.

And you’re right, I think Jason picks. Archuleta and Brooke will be too kind; whatever DCook does will be deemed “smug”; am I missing anyone else?

Oh, and when Jason does open a show, that’s the week they want him OUT. My guess is Top 6 night.

Next week is final 7à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.since Nigel loves his schtickà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦no matter how tired, old, predictable and lameà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦who is going to pick a group?

I always believed that they make the highest vote getter pick a group on Top 7 night, so I assume it will be Archie unless Cook or Castro pull out a huge performance. I think this will be a really important week for Jason and DC. If DC doesn’t deliver a really great performance, I think they’ll throw him under the bus in favor of Jason, in which case, they’ll make DC pick to make him look like a douche.

I don’t believe the Battle of the Davids is set in stone at all if JC keeps wowing the viewers with teeny ukeleles and rainbows. Plus Jason is probably due for the pimp spot next week. What if he brings out a pan flute and wears flowers in his dreads? (I’m joking. I would love a JC/DC finale, if only it were possible)

I think they should put a twist on it this year and have the bootee pick the groups. So maybe Syesha or KLC. “You’re not only with the bottom group, you’re going home! Ha!”

Oh, and in other news. Jason’s OTR is #2 on iTunes, beating Leona’s Bleeding Love. Take that Simon Cowell!

http://www.rickey.org/?p=7618

I think they should put a twist on it this year and have the bootee pick the groups.

Given how mean Ryan was this week, I could totally see them do this. Split into two groups and the left over person starts wincing because he/she thinks they have to pick a group. Ryan drags them to center stage and says. “Every year on final 7, we have somebody pick which group is the bottom/top 3. This year, we won’t make you do that. Left-Over-Person, you’re going home”

I always believed that they make the highest vote getter pick a group on Top 7 night, so I assume it will be Archie unless Cook or Castro pull out a huge performance.

George Huff was the first to pick a group. I’ve always loved George, but I’m not sure I would buy that he was the top vote getter that week. I think he was forced to pick a group because he was the sweet one. After that, TPTB realized the power of that role to de-pimp.

Plus Jason is probably due for the pimp spot next week.

I would not be surprised that he gets the pimp spot this week either. He’ll get it on a week where people will say it is the only reason he survived (I don’t see him as a Mariah style belter), make him pick a group and be seen as an a$$hat (the picker is always called an a$$hat), then send him out to sing an ALW song first the following week (hey, Nigel can claim it is fair since he sang last the week before). Bye Bye Castro.

Please keep in mind that I was positive Carly was going home yesterday and I got ZERO points in the pool this week, so I’m probably totally, dead wrong about absolutely every prediction. Jason will probably out-Mariah Mariah and ALW will cast him as the lead in his next mega-musical, but he will have to turn it down because he will win AI and will move 10 million units.

I am still way beyond shocked that MJ got the boot. It doesn’t seem right, does it?

I remember back in the day when Mariah was considered to be the gold standard of singing and I think that the Idols probably will do her songs without all the runs that have overtaken her music. Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m thinking that song wise Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢d like to hear:

Carly Smithson à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ Vision of Love (I have been hoping that Carly would get this one and think that she could have the Idol moment with this)
Brooke à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ We Belong Together – (I don’t think that Brooke can handle this but of all Mariah’s songs I could see this stripped down to an acoustic version.)
David Archuleta à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ Hero (This song has him written all over it and will continue his quest for world peace)
Jason Castro à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ Always Be My Baby (This is another one that I think he can play guitar on doesn’t require the power singing that he can’t do.)
David Cook à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ My All (He can start it off very simple with a guitar and then power through the ending of the song.)
Syesha à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ When You Believe (There is no way that Syesha could pass up the chance to sing both Mariah and Whitney)
Kristy Lee Cook à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ Love Takes Time – (I think that Kristy is going to latch on to any ballad that she can get.)

Did anyone happen to see the segment on Michael on the Today Show? Someone on IDF said they did a piece talking about his elimination and how there’s this big outcry today. I’d love to see it.

Oh, and in other news. Jasonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s OTR is #2 on iTunes, beating Leonaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s Bleeding Love.

Here are some other IGB successes from the iTunes Top 100 this morning:

3. Praying for Time (Idol Gives Back Performance) – Carrie Underwood
6. Shout to the Lord (Idol Gives Back Performance) – Various Artists
7. What About Now (Idol Gives Back Performance) – Daughtry
27. Don’t Stop the Music (Idol Gives Back Performance) – Various Artists
49. Fly Like a Bird (Idol Gives Back Performance) – Mariah Carey
61. Can’t Say Goodbye (Idol Gives Back Performance) – Snoop Dogg feat. Charlie Wilson
71. Good and Broken (Idol Gives Back Performance) – Miley Cyrus
97. See You Again (Idol Gives Back Performance) – Miley Cyrus

Iz still has two versions of SOTR in the Top 100 (12 and 76). Carries BHC also saw a boost, but Terri’s version is nowhere in sight.

Jason will probably out-Mariah Mariah and ALW will cast him as the lead in his next mega-musical, but he will have to turn it down because he will win AI and will move 10 million units.

:lol_tb:

Ok, the shock has worn off a little. MJ is gone. No more Hot Aussie. My hormones must readjust to this new reality. I hope he gets signed soon. Not that I will actually but his record mind you, but I will get to see his Hot Aussie Video and replay it many times. Sigh.

So what about that Kristy huh? That girl will be around forever. And Brooke avoided the bottom 3 altogether! Maybe her fanbase is stronger than I thought. That makes me happy, but still I’m plenty surprised. Hope she successfully Broke-ifys a Mariah song next week. That would put her in a good place.

I am ready for Syesha to go. She can sing, but that attitude of hers is starting to make a resurgence. “Are you comparing ME to FANTASIA! But I am my own person! Randy, how dare you.” God, can she be any more stupid?!

I would not be surprised that he gets the pimp spot this week either. Heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ll get it on a week where people will say it is the only reason he survived (I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t see him as a Mariah style belter), make him pick a group and be seen as an a$$hat (the picker is always called an a$$hat), then send him out to sing an ALW song first the following week (hey, Nigel can claim it is fair since he sang last the week before). Bye Bye Castro.

Please keep in mind that I was positive Carly was going home yesterday and I got ZERO points in the pool this week, so Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m probably totally, dead wrong about absolutely every prediction. Jason will probably out-Mariah Mariah and ALW will cast him as the lead in his next mega-musical, but he will have to turn it down because he will win AI and will move 10 million units.

LOL :lol_tb:

Carly Smithson à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ Vision of Love (I have been hoping that Carly would get this one and think that she could have the Idol moment with this)
Brooke à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ We Belong Together – (I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t think that Brooke can handle this but of all Mariahà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s songs I could see this stripped down to an acoustic version.)
David Archuleta à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ Hero (This song has him written all over it and will continue his quest for world peace)
Jason Castro à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ Always Be My Baby (This is another one that I think he can play guitar on doesnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t require the power singing that he canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t do.)
David Cook à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ My All (He can start it off very simple with a guitar and then power through the ending of the song.)
Syesha à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ When You Believe (There is no way that Syesha could pass up the chance to sing both Mariah and Whitney)
Kristy Lee Cook à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ Love Takes Time – (I think that Kristy is going to latch on to any ballad that she can get.)

Steven I love this list. But I tell you one thing… Kristy Lee is SO going to sing Heroes with a country guitar, and dedicate it to the troops. Because that’s how she rolls. LOL!

What if he brings out a pan flute and wears flowers in his dreads? (Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m joking. I would love a JC/DC finale, if only it were possible)

:lol_tb: Maybe he’ll bust out some bongos or something.

Not sure if he’ll get the pimp spot, but he’s performed towards the beginning of the show for two weeks, so here’s hoping he goes in the latter half next week.

As for the picker, since I’ve been watching it’s been Bo, Taylor and Melinda. Only one went on to win, but all made top 3, so maybe it’s not as damaging as we think.

I didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t think of it that way but your right! Through I bet her and little David are going to arm wrestle for that song and I can see her taking him down.

I think that this could be a good night for the Idols through Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m really excited about Andrew Lloyd Webber night.

I would love to hear Brooke or Jason do an acoustic version of We Belong Together.

(I’m bringing this over from the Recap thread – I’m always late to the party):

Thereà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s something about the à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  factor – ya either got it, or ya donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t! A person can be really hot looking, have a really good voice, but doesnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t have stage charisma. To me, that is MJohns. I was reading an article somewhere that talked about front men like Mick Jagger, etc. who exude the à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  factor in they way they walk, the way they perform, and they donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t always have to have the best voices either.

Michael doesnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t carry himself as a star, he doesnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t stand at the mic and exude the à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“I am a starà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  gene (in my humble opinion, of course). I really like his voice, I really(!!!) love his looks, but Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ll admit to not getting his à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  factor.

I thought in the beginning of the season he would be the one to beat.

I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t think, however, that he deserved to go this quickly, but something was missing somewhere, because the women all love him – but were they voting for him? Guess not.

There was an article on Syesha Mercado’s back story in yesterday’s headlines…

the 50 year old father, a recovering drug addict who spent time in jail,
the 50 year old mother convicted of welfare fraud,
Syesha enrolled in a program as a nine year old that promised her a free college education if she stayed out of trouble and completed high school which she did and then chose to study theatre at university
and this from an interview with Syesha’s 28 year old sister Xtavia who worked nights, got her three sisters up in the morning, took them to school and made sure they were fed.
Annie, if you see Xtavia, give her a hug for me

I’ve been a closet Sysesha fan since Mr and Mr. Jones(hope she changes it to me and Mr. Johns for the tour)
and yes, she has made the absolute worst song choices since then but despite this, has never really embarassed herself while letting some obvious talent shine through

Tues night there was the Rami was the only one ‘who gets me’ comment followed by “I Believe,’ a song that Syesha sang like a figure skating routine completing the necessary components, but in this case the whole was never near the sum of its parts…
but Syesha fiinally connected emotionally when she said ‘but she’s my idol.’

Randy’s obviously conflicted reaction,
with Paula coming to the rescue as she always does
and Simon showing his softer side

Yeah, ‘I Believe’ wasn’t that good, but during Idol Gives Back Week the judges followed their hearts.

Then last night, to me, it was obvious the no one ‘gets me’ comment resonated with Carly who really reached out to Syesha..
with no reaction from Syesha because in order to survive her first 21 years she has had to shut down emotionally.

Some weeks, AI is just a little more than a cheesey television show.
And this was one of those weeks.

After learning it’s Mariah week, I’m picturing MJ unfastening his ascot, wiping his hot sweaty brow with it and saying, “Whew, at least I don’t have to deal with that crap!”

I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t think, however, that he deserved to go this quickly, but something was missing somewhere, because the women all love him – but were they voting for him? Guess not.

I think he was splitting votes with David Cook. This week, everyone thought Cook was in danger, so they power voted for him. MJ didn’t have a great performance, but it wasn’t terrible, so fans may not have been worried. The fact that he he went first with an unmemorable performance probably hurt him in terms of the casual vote, too.

Cookie should reap the benefits of MJ’s elimination.

CCJ, RIP. Until tour, that is! :devil_tb:

ETA:

I would love to hear Brooke or Jason do an acoustic version of We Belong Together.

Nice choice, Primeminister. I’m not familiar with Mariah’s catalog, so I’m leaving all the guessing to others this week.

I would love to hear Brooke or Jason do an acoustic version of We Belong Together.

I could see David Cook doing that too. He would kill on the crescendo (?) at the end.

Did anyone happen to see the segment on Michael on the Today Show? Someone on IDF said they did a piece talking about his elimination and how thereà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s this big outcry today. Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢d love to see it.

I’m going to post that in a minute. I just posted my recap in last night’s thread.

Thereà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s something about the à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  factor – ya either got it, or ya donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t! A person can be really hot looking, have a really good voice, but doesnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t have stage charisma. To me, that is MJohns.

I agree that this is why Michael ended up with the smallest fanbase of the remaining guys. I think people liked him a lot, but he didn’t inspire enough invested fans who are going to vote on 2 phones for 2 hours no matter what he does.

I don’t get the whole David A thing, but Jason and Cook both have charisma in spades, IMO. Particularly DC, as he doesn’t have nearly as much going on in the conventional good looks department. Who would have thought the pale, combovered nerd from MO would outlast the Aussie-accented “heartthrob”? (Ok, the makeover helps. a lot.)

Cookie should reap the benefits of MJà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s elimination

My head is hanging now, as I admit that I hope for this…………….

Kristy Lee Cook à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ Love Takes Time – (I think that Kristy is going to latch on to any ballad that she can get.)

Once upon a time, early in my high school life, I think, I liked one Mariah song. This one. Is my past coming back to haunt me? Arrgh!

Jason should have had the pimp spot this past week, as it will be hard for him to top SOTR next week. Not saying he won’t have another outstanding performance, but most likely not on Mariah week, IMO.

Jason should have had the pimp spot this past week, as it will be hard for him to top SOTR next week. Not saying he wonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t have another outstanding performance, but most likely not on Mariah week, IMO.

I really hope he does NOT get the pimp spot on Mariah week unless he has another excellent performance. If he goes last next week, he’ll be in trouble Top 6 week.

My head is hanging now, as I admit that I hope for thisà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.

No need to hang head. All’s fair in love and Idol.

MJ was my third favorite and I would have loved it if he lasted over KLK, Syesha, Carly, David A, and Brooke. In reality, I didn’t expect him to go much farther than sixth, though.

Cookie should reap the benefits of MJà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s elimination

My head is hanging now, as I admit that I hope for thisà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.

I just realized chest bumps on group sings are now history.

Oh well…there’s always the tour.

are you kidding me sciencefan, either you’ve been playing your car stereo too loud or you are listening to screetchy singers, because Michael Johns is an incredible singer, I go to plenty of live concerts and I know pitchy and he ain’t pitchy

and don’t judge him by the band Rising, his work with the band The Firm is much better and his solo stuff over at his Facebook page, I’d pay for it…….sexy lyrics, funky bluesy rock vibe………

he is doing a genre of music I love and it is a niche that needs filling, we need some blue eyed soul leaning more towards rock, Justin got the more hip hop vibe covered off and I am tired of all the Nickelback clones and the Amy Winehouse clones and Kelly Clarkson clones

……..his studio version of Dream On is incredible, the Idol habit of doing abbreviated songs is a crime, and he actually puts a bluesy spin on the studio version he didn’t in the performance because he doesn’t have to hurry through the song

just cut out the cheesy crap and let the kids sing the whole song, songs are written the way they are for a reason, Dream On is supposedly to be a musical build up done in 4 minutes not 1 and 1/2 minutes

and I think Aerosmith would tell you that got some blues and soul in their blood too, definitely a Southern flavour from time to time

I am still in shock and angry at myself for letting this show suck me in again, now I think the best people in this competition are better off not winning
[what does that say] however final four would have been the best spot to bow out

lavender1960
Apr 11th, 2008 at 1:17 pm
and his solo stuff over at his Facebook page

Link please.

are you kidding me sciencefan, either youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve been playing your car stereo too loud or you are listening to screetchy singers, because Michael Johns is an incredible singer, I go to plenty of live concerts and I know pitchy and he ainà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t pitchy

Science fan is entitled to her opinion, so please respect her. Calm down. Being rude to other posters is NOT tolerated here.

Since Hodi & Kathie Lee this morning on the Today Show wondered where Taylor has been, they can catch him here.
LoL!

-Talladega, AL
April, 27 – Taylor will be singing the National Anthem at the start of the race . See it on Fox at 1:30 PM CST

-Saturday, August 23 at 8 pm at the Filene Center
A Tribute to the greatest album in Rock & Roll History
Sgt. Pepperà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s Lonely Hearts Club Band

Starring: Taylor Hicks, Todd Rundgren, Denny Laine plus more!
Performing their hits, plus the album in its entirety.

There was a song spoiler for next week in one of the behind-the-scenes videos from Good Day LA. According to Simon’s girlfriend, Carly is singing “Without You” next week. The judges expect Syesha and Carly to do well and Pauler thinks the boys can hit the high notes if someone gives them a wedgie (she actually said that).

Saturday, August 23 at 8 pm at the Filene Center
A Tribute to the greatest album in Rock & Roll History
Sgt. Pepperà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s Lonely Hearts Club Band
Starring: Taylor Hicks,

This is 4 miles up the road from me and I’m not sure I really want to go. Hurry up with that new CD and tour, Taylor!

The judges expect Syesha and Carly to do well

Well that’s pretty much what everybody thinks, isn’t it? But the bad news for those 2 is that the expectations will be so much higher. Syesha especially. This should be her night like Country was supposed to be Kristy’s. If she’s off, much venom will come her way. More than usual, anyway. Heh.

All Jason has to do is not suck, and they’ll give him a tongue bath. LOL!

This is 4 miles up the road from me and Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m not sure I really want to go. Hurry up with that new CD and tour, Taylor!

cheese my friend – it appears we are almost neighbors, as the ride to Wolftrap is only 15 mins from my home! and YES YES YES I will be there, and it ain’t to look at Todd Rundgren, let me tell ya, although I’ve seen him a few times and he is entertaining.

I believe I’ll be singing along w/T! because I will be going………

eta: T = Taylor, not Todd

Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m actually a little worried for Carly due to à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Without Youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  being such an overdone song and Kelly Clarkson having had a fantastic moment with that song however I do expect her to get the pimp spot. As for Jason I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t know how heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s going to be able to tackle any Mariah song since theyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re so stylistic

All Jason has to do is not suck, and theyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ll give him a tongue bath. LOL!

I disagree. The judges haven’t been very positive, except for his 2 knock out performances. He’s intended fodder, I think, and they don’t seem to know what to do with him.

Without You sounds like a good choice for Carly, but honestly, what kind of record is she going to make? She confuses me with her song choices.

Oh, and I checked out IDF. Here are the exact words:

Apparently Terri Seymour and Simon were on Good Day LA this morning talking about Mariah week and Terri said that Carly told her she was going to do the song that Simon suggested she should do and she said that song was…

“Without You.”

Since when have the judges been able to suggest songs for the contestants?! Get ready for Carly-pimping and “perfect song choice” crap from Simon next week.

How about an acoustic version of “One Sweet Day” for Jason?

I’m dreading Mariah Carey songs. I absolutely don’t like her or her music. I predict this is going to be another train wreck for the idols, with the exception of possibly Syesha, Carly, and, maybe David A.

I had MJ pegged at going out in 6th place. So, last night was definitely a shocker to me, but, I think he’ll be surprised at the audience who has seen him on this show. They live in a bubble, and, aren’t totally prepared for the masses who actually watch this show. He’ll be fine.

I’ll have to leave the song suggestions to others this week as I am completely clueless as to any Mariah Carey songs. I agree with whoever said above it makes no sense to have a Mariah Carey week after all these years of telling the contestants they should never pick Mariah songs (or Whitney, or Celine, or…)

Since when have the judges been able to suggest songs for the contestants?! Get ready for Carly-pimping and à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“perfect song choiceà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  crap from Simon next week.

I think I remember reading way back when that the producers actually handed “Summertime” to Fantasia and told her to sing it. I’m sure a tongue bath is coming for Carly. I hate that song though.

I wonder if Randy will say “Yo, I’ve worked with Mariah” seven times? The only thing worse than having a Mariah week is following it with ALW week. I wonder if they’ll do Neil Diamond on Top 5? I really hate the narrow themes. Hell, I’d almost rather have the dreaded “Motown” night again at this point.

I disagree. The judges havenà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t been very positive, except for his 2 knock out performances. Heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s intended fodder, I think, and they donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t seem to know what to do with him.

Heh. Good point. Perhaps I should have said Brooke?

I don’t know if he was really intended fodder though. Didn’t Nigel say he was “heartbroken” over not getting clearance to show more of Jason before the top 24 started? I always had the impression that Nigel liked him. Now Garret Haley, THAT was some fodder for you right there. LOL.

I love Kelly Clarkson’s performance of Without You. She did it twice and the second one was better for me. I think it was judges pick night, top 3, but am not sure if it was a Simon or Randy pick.

I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t know if he was really intended fodder though. Didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t Nigel say he was à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“heartbrokenà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  over not getting clearance to show more of Jason before the top 24 started? I always had the impression that Nigel liked him. Now Garret Haley, THAT was some fodder for you right there. LOL.

Well, they did show some of his audition, finally, just not “Crazy”. So why didn’t they show what the could air earlier? Luckily, he was able to build a fanbase without the pre-top 24 exposure.

I think Nigel likes him, but I do believe he’s the fodder that somehow escaped. I agree with PM that they don’t quite know what to do with him. Despite the judges’ comments, I think he’s been pretty consistent, with the exception of “Michelle”. I’m hoping his fanbase can keep him around a couple more weeks at least.

ETA: The Buddy TV article that Ana posted in the MJ thread states that MJ was going to sing “Vision of Love.” I guess I’m going to have to listen to some Mariah on Rhapsody tonight. Sigh.

Without You sounds like a good choice for Carly, but honestly, what kind of record is she going to make? She confuses me with her song choices.
I think being on Idol doesnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t really indicate what kind of record theyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re going to make just what kind of songs they can find to shine in that particular theme. I remember Kelly doing diva type of pop songs and ever since Breakaway her type of music has been a complete 180 from when she performed on the show. I think Carly will record pop rock and ballads which fits in with what she has done on the show.

Ultimately however, Johns dismissal proves, once again, that you cannot ignore the youth vote on “American Idol.” The smoldering performer offered a very grown-up appeal that did little to play to the 10-year-old set, and, like Daughtry, Mandisa and Hudson before, the neglect of that critical demographic may be what ultimately cost him his place in the Idoldome.

So true! Who’s voting?

That contract with Avon is worth at least $3Mil for Jordin; that’s how much Jen-Hud was paid. Wow! I should have been a star

thesheriff
Apr 11th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
I love Kelly Clarksonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s performance of Without You. She did it twice and the second one was better for me. I think it was judges pick night, top 3, but am not sure if it was a Simon or Randy pick.

It was judges’ pick…always hated that song…thought Kelly knocked it out of the park–especially 2nd night when she was not being judged. Just let go of all inhibitions!

Ultimately however, Johns dismissal proves, once again, that you cannot ignore the youth vote on à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“American Idol.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  The smoldering performer offered a very grown-up appeal that did little to play to the 10-year-old set, and, like Daughtry, Mandisa and Hudson before, the neglect of that critical demographic may be what ultimately cost him his place in the Idoldome.

So true! Whoà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s voting?

I’m not sure I did the blockquote thingy right but anyway.

I don’t know if I agree with this. How do you explain Taylor, and for that matter, Ruben?

ETA: Apparently I did the blockquote thingy backwards, but you get my drift.

I have heard the judges aka 3 stooges say on numerous occasions that they have no contact with Contestants during the week and just see them momentarily after performances and boot night……..Hmmmmmm—-.Another Idol Lie

Summertime might have been handed to Fantasia, but they couldn’t make it the moment, she did that. That is the thing, with TCO’s, fodder, etc. They may put you in the box, they may pimp you, they may depimp you, but what you do is the deal. It’s like athletes say, you can’t worry about the competition, it’s what you do that determines the outcome.

Michael was one of the TCO’s and he imploded. I like him, I purchased some of his music, but he in the long run underperformed and that is why he is gone.

Here’s the EW Popwatch behind the scenes results article.

Also remember right about now the Idols get tired….it’s been reported by several on their blogs that they are run ragged so tiredness may be effecting some of them…it’s like a marathon when you think about it….the one with the best stamina….
Anywho I have no idea why MJohns is a goner. But I know with Keith Urban in his corner we will hear from him again.

Here’s the youtube version of the Making of the Ford Music Video.

One more thought on MJ’s departure – did anyone else think that had he ever moved into the audience and showed 1/2 of the enthusiasm he showed during his sing-out last night, he may not be gone today? He really relaxed for it, and it is sad to think it could have made a difference because really, for the first time, I saw him engaging and entertaining.

Isn’t that just the irony of the journey through Idol Land?

If Carly can manage to sing “Without You” without looking like she’s going to kill anyone who crosses her, it could very well be a classic AI moment for her.

How a person looks while they are singing doesn’t bother me.
It’s sorta like how a person looks during sex. Not a pretty sight.

Well, if someone sings a wistful song with an angry scowl on their face, it ruins the effect of the song for me, no matter what the vocal is like.

I’m a visual person.

Well I hate to say this, cause I really am not a fan of her’s. but I am actually looking forward to Syesha next week…….IF….and ONLY IF…the following things happen

1- After watching her sing that little bit of Rhianna during IGB, THe girl has some moves. She needs to pick a more dance styled number not the overblow glory note song. Have fun with and work the stage.

2- Also during IGB’s Rhianna number, when she sang it was in a lower register and I thought she sounded great. Stay in that range with only the occasion move to the glory note.

3- Wear something fun. The girl is gorgeous and has incredible taste in clothing. Not to mention the clothes tend to wear her not her wearing the clothes.

Add these altogether I think she could have a great week. I am not looking forward to the “make my ears bleed” glory note disaster. She’s trying too hard and needs to have fun with it.

BTW….DC is still my favorite and I am nervous already. So my votes will go to him regardless of what happens.

Well, if someone sings a wistful song with an angry scowl on their face, it ruins the effect of the song for me, no matter what the vocal is like.

Yes, part of artistry is connecting with the emotion of the song. I think that’s been part of Carly’s problem to date.

I’m watching “AI Extra,” and during the interview with Michael, his age came up. He said he’s “Papa Johns.” Too cute!

CSI outdelivered “American Idol” in viewers (19.93m vs. 19.57m).

One of the first time in ages, AI wasn’t #1 for the night.

If Carly can manage to sing à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Without Youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  without looking like sheà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s going to kill anyone who crosses her, it could very well be a classic AI moment for her.

That made me LOL. But I agree. If she could just quit the need to look like she wants to punch Simon in the face every second of her performances and sing with some emotion instead of anger (or whatever it is; I’m really surprised the judges haven’t brought up her unnecessary facial expressions more than they have at current), the girl could actually be a real contender.

I’m not looking forward to next week. Not only do I not like Mariah (she’s got a great range, but she is WAY too diva-esque and too wrapped up in herself for my tastes), but whatever the theme is — I’m guessing Billboard Top 100 or 21st century or something — it may very well be a killer for the contenders (David’s) and the fodder (Syesha, KLC) might end up rising. This could be a long week. *sigh*

This week may be great for the David’s ,Carly and Syishia,I also see maybe Kristy doing pretty good.

Jason and Brook might be a little harder for them but they may mangage to fit it to thier style..This maybe the time for the belters .

I hope I am wrong and remember I know little about music….I have a feeling that good old Kristy will be giving her barbie smile while at the top 3…

The only version of “Without You” I’m familiar with is the one Harry Nilsson made famous in 1972. I liked it a lot.

Poor Carly, you know it’s bad when even Paula was nodding her head in agreement with Simon… and Randy chimed in. They all agreed she sounded angry.

They were only trying to help her, I’m sure. Maybe she IS angry. There’s lots of angry singers out there, aren’t there? Maybe she’s a tougher chick than we think?

I went back and listened to her sing “The Shadow of Your Smile” one of the greatest songs of all time. She did a beautiful job until she got to the screaming. Why does she have to scream in every song?

What happened to THIS Carly?!

Taylor hicks–
CD of his pre-Idol songs and DVD comming this summer
Tour and his second Cd comming this fall
Yes tired of those comments been two years ..

Sigh… MJ was just starting to grow on me. Is anyone going to chat tonight?

Sighà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦ MJ was just starting to grow on me.

Same. I’m going to miss the J in our beloved CCJ dork trio. :’(

Is anyone going to chat tonight?

I’ve been hanging around on the page itself without actually signing in. No one’s been on in the ~4 hours I’ve had the page open.

yes I am in chat now lu..for a bit

I’ll check chat out in a few…

Hisaki – The theme is Mariah Carey songs. So it should be interesting, to say the least.

MJ was suppossed to sing a bluesy soulful version of Vision of Love.
Can you imagine how hot and awesome that would have been?
He was so robbed…

I am going to miss MJ so much. I am not watching the show anymore. It’s too hard for me. At least I will be entertained next week with all of his TV interviews.

MJ was my fav too. I was totally shocked! Im glad to see Keith Urban, Nicole and Dolly Parton have already contacted him. I hope he records cuz I will buy whatever he puts out.

Hereà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s the youtube version of the Making of the Ford Music Video.

prime, this link is not working for me… :s

I remember reading that Michael took songs from one of the groups he was in. Were they taken from Rising or The Firm?