Idol Headlines for 4/25/08

Speaking for moi, I don’t watch Idol because I’m in school. I catch the clips online here or at Rickey. The Ratings people should realize that people are not strapped to their livingrooms anymore. Things have changed. Plus, the format for Idol is predictable, we pretty much know what the judges are going to say — except Simon.

This was not posted it is from the NYTIMES about Carliy’s wrong song choice and how it offended some Christains:

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/25/arts/television/25idol.html?_r=1&ref=arts&oref=slogin

ratings wednesday -22.6 million NYTimes -22.7
http://www.reuters.com/article/entertainmentNews/idUSN2535884420080425
The best explanation I read is the novelty has run out just a tad but the show is still on top. This tibit compare it not to other shows but passed American Idol shows.(ok semi word/numbers/sports /nerd)

Besides the Super Bowl, AI is still the top non-event show. There’s nothing to be ashamed about, and it aint going nowhere. Other networks would die for it. I only wish they would bring in some other judges. Maybe have a different set of judges during the auditions and then bring in the “expert” 3 during the Hollywood week and after. I would like to see what other industry specialists do and say during auditions.

A good example is — why are there 2 men to one woman? how about 2 women to 1 man? That would be a good old catfight, but for some reason all these reality shows feel that 2men 1 woman is a good mix. Try something different.

How about Patti Labelle (example) or Jodi Whatley taking Ryan’s place during the auditions; and let Ryan come in during Hollywood week?

Is that so bad to do?

This was not posted it is from the NYTIMES about Carliyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s wrong song choice and how it offended some Christains:

Yes, it was posted. Check it out above.

In my circle of friends (40-something year old parent’s with young teenagers) it’s been mentioned that their kids don’t want to watch AI anymore because of all the stupid themes. Their kids don’t know anything about the songs, so they don’t want to watch some one singing something by Andrew Lloyd Weber-who? Actually one of my best girlfriends is a big idol fan, and skipped this week because she had no interest in exactly that even though she usually watches and is a DC fan.

Idol needs to lay off a bit on the themes — and let the contestants sing more current songs that fit their style. I know they want the grammys to tune in, but there’s always a Shyesha or a David Archie to suit them. The Cooks and Michaels of the show need to be able to sing their style as well, and the rockers will watch too.

My 13 year olds don’t know anything about Neil Diamond — but I do. Who’s the demographic they’re trying to reach?

Sorry MJ —I did look and missed it up there I need new glasses or a brain transfer….

Please delete it…(hides face and shame enters witness protection program in New Zeland)

Idol needs to lay off a bit on the themes à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  and let the contestants sing more current songs that fit their style. I know they want the grammys to tune in, but thereà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s always a Shyesha or a David Archie to suit them. The Cooks and Michaels of the show need to be able to sing their style as well, and the rockers will watch too.

I don’t know how to do the quote thing…but I couldn’t agree more. Maybe that’s why we all wonder what kind of a CD the performer will be doing, etc. I did like how the early rounds were changed up this year, but these later themes are a bit sketchy. I’d rather have them do basic genre nights – country, pop, rock, top 40, etc.

Oh, and as for Jesus Christ Superstar being offensive – I was more offended by the patriotic card KLC played a few weeks ago!!!!! I actually enjoyed Carly’s performance.

I agree about the themes. Has there been any current songs this year at all? But I do think it is all about itunes, and what they can get the rights to. But this is not fair for these kids. Again AI is all about the bottom line, and how much money can they squeeze from these kids week after week. If they were able to pick more recent tunes, then they would be able to find what suits them more, instead of these tired old songs.

@wfowfowfo – I guess we 40 somethings are the demographic they usually cater to (we who hold the purse strings), but I must say my 13 year old doesn’t care what or who they sing, as long as she can stare longingly at Jason Castro. Ha! I think you’re right, though…even I am tiring of the themes crap. This may be near blasphemy, but I never liked Neil Diamond particularly. But then I never liked Mariah Carey or Broadway musicals that much, either. That said, I think all of the mentors this season have done an exceptional job, up to and including Dolly Parton. I expect Neil will be a great mentor, too.

I just can’t help but think of Neil Diamond in Saving Silverman. Hilarious! And maybe that movie will make him more recognizable to the younger set? That’s how my 13 year old knew who he was, at any rate. lol

I don’t know how to quote either–but I also agree with wfowfowfo. I said it in comments a couple of days ago, too–I really wish they would be more contemporary. It would be far more exciting, at least to me.

And Chicago-sally–internet viewing is measured too. I’m less familiar with internet research than TV research, but there are whole businesses dedicated to internet research. Nielsen has one of them. TV viewing is definitely eroding because of the other ways to view programming and broadcasters and researchers are definitely aware of it.

I don’t even watch the results show any more, it’s too much filler and not enough “real stuff.”

In my circle of friends (40-something year old parentà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s with young teenagers) ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s been mentioned that their kids donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t want to watch AI anymore because of all the stupid themes. Their kids donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t know anything about the songs, so they donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t want to watch some one singing something by Andrew Lloyd Weber-who? Actually one of my best girlfriends is a big idol fan, and skipped this week because she had no interest in exactly that even though she usually watches and is a DC fan.

Idol needs to lay off a bit on the themes à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’  and let the contestants sing more current songs that fit their style. I know they want the grammys to tune in, but thereà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s always a Shyesha or a David Archie to suit them. The Cooks and Michaels of the show need to be able to sing their style as well, and the rockers will watch too.

I agree, the narrow themes are killing it for me. I find the contestants this year as interesting as Season 5′s, but back then, the themes were broader allowing contestants to pick songs that fit their style and that really allowed them to shine. Granted, there are a few contestants this year who still manage to shine…but I think I would enjoy the show a whole lot more if I didn’t have to see folkies like Brooke and Jason squeaking out ALW tunes.

Mariah Week should have been Billboard #1′s.
ALW Week should have been Broadway/Showtunes.
Dolly Week (although it was a good week) should have been Country.
And all the themes in the semifinals? Scrap them. I wouldn’t care if allowing the contestants to sing whatever song they want means not having the live recordings on iTunes.

Idol has been theme-heavy this season. I still think they should have allowed the contestants to do their own thing during the semis.

I’m glad they do the themes and have the mentors because it brings back memories for me. For example ALW, I have never really fully appreciated his song writing which has been trashed from time to time….but he is a very dramatic writer and is the leading Broadway tunesmith….his shows are always elaborate …. and I just like listening to his songs regardless who is singing it….but the problem with the “contemporary” writers is….they don’t write “standards”.

I mean, can anyone name a Neyo or Pharrell Williams song? Can anybody sing or name a Justin Tim song? ( I can’t!) These guys are still too new and their songs are not standards. I don’t know who is new and relevant anymore. The last person was Prince (showing my age) and he doesn’t give license to his songs — too bad! In fact, it would be nice to have a Prince night….but you know the tiny-one won’t allow it….so they’re left with the 60s, 70s, 80s song writers. Which puts the producers in a big bind….if you can’t get license to someone’s catalog then you’re left with the same-o same-o.

Since most of the Idols are headed to Broadway anyway, the show has taken a shift from “pop” Idol to “show” Idol. Most of them will find their way to the big stage of Las Vegas or New York, vs. a record contract. Now — one theme they haven’t hit is JAZZ — does anybody know JAZZ as a song genre hasn’t been done on Idol? You have a bunch of great songs in the JAZZ genre.

Hmmm. I did the whole catholic school thing growing up, lived across the street from the convent, and this is the first I’ve ever heard that some christians consider JCS offensive. I, too, was more offended by KLC’s patriotic beg for votes.
I do wonder how they try to find a current pop star by so often having themes that related back to the 50′s & 60′s so often, and then claim the song is “too old” for the kid who sang it. I’ve wondered that for years. In season 5 they had a theme that was top 10 or something like that, and I think some more “open” theme weeks (songs by the contestants’ idols, or something like that) would be good to switch it up.

I agree, the narrow themes are killing it for me. I find the contestants this year as interesting as Season 5à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s, but back then, the themes were broader allowing contestants to pick songs that fit their style and that really allowed them to shine. Granted, there are a few contestants this year who still manage to shineà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦but I think I would enjoy the show a whole lot more if I didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t have to see folkies like Brooke and Jason squeaking out ALW tunes.

Mariah Week should have been Billboard #1à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s.
ALW Week should have been Broadway/Showtunes.
Dolly Week (although it was a good week) should have been Country.
And all the themes in the semifinals? Scrap them. I wouldnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t care if allowing the contestants to sing whatever song they want means not having the live recordings on iTunes.

I totally agree with this! The narrow themes aren’t doing the show any favors. I’m old, but I like contemporary music. I really miss hearing current hits mixed in with the older stuff. I think the show is suffering as a result.

Having said that, I think the current ratings slide has more to do with the fact that after 7 years, the show has lost it’s luster a bit. I’m not sure AI will ever again reach the ratings highs it hit during Season 5 and 6.

I certainly agree on the narrow themes. There really hasn’t been one all year that I was really looking forward to. I never thought I would long for the tired old Motown theme and plain old country night, but the situation is getting pretty desperate. If I weren’t particularly invested in a certain contestant, I would probably just sample the performances here or on youtube rather than sitting through the show.

I haven’t seen a Top 4 theme announced yet and I really hope they do an iTunes Top 100 or Billboard theme. I know the iTunes 100 theme was rumored way back around Top 11 when the viewers “demanded” a 2nd night of Beatles. (eyeroll) I’ve got my fingers crossed that they’ve been working all season to get some recent songs cleared for the show and release to iTunes. However, knowing this year, they will probably do a dual 1940s/1950s theme for Top 4.

Also, here’s an interesting picture:
http://thumbsnap.com/v/lI3brnyR.jpg

I agree about the theme weeks…yawning. If they are going for the over 50 group, it may work, but many of the 30′s and under just can’t relate.

Hmmm. I did the whole catholic school thing growing up, lived across the street from the convent, and this is the first Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve ever heard that some christians consider JCS offensive. I, too, was more offended by KLCà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s patriotic beg for votes.

Yeah – I thought the grab for the patriotic vote was pretty gross myself. Plus, I hate that song.

I just can’t get behind this whole JCS is offensive thing. Some people just need to relax. It’s just a song from a 30 year old musical.

But, surely that can’t be the reason that Carly didn’t receive enough votes. The hardcore Christians who are offended by that particular interpretation of Jesus certainly couldn’t have been voting for a tatood bar-maid could they? I’m thinking Carly wasn’t a red state favorite in the first place :lol_wp:

I’m secretly offended by people thinking patriotism is a cheap beg for votes. Some people need to relax.

The online and print community has been making improvement suggestions and, for the most part, AI has listened.
(PC auditions, backstories, diverse genres, contestant focus, elimination separate from IGB, allowing instruments, download availability, heck, even mosh pit clapping reduction)
Maybe if we/the media keep voicing our opinions we may get songs reflecting individual style and a self penned coronation song. Wishful thinking, I know, but I can dream can’t I?

Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m secretly offended by people thinking patriotism is a cheap beg for votes. Some people need to relax.

LOL Longsong, it’s not a secret anymore

Just to clarify, I don’t think “patriotism” itself is a ploy to get votes, I have no way of knowing if KLC is indeed patriotic or not. I personally thought singing that particular song on this particular show, when she was doing so poorly was just pandering to what she perceived to be her fan base.

I think some people are put off by the fact that if you don’t stand up and sing along with that stupid song you are somehow unpatriotic. You can hate Lee Greenwood and still love America.

Some people need to relax.

Nobody here at the blog needs to relax. It’s just an opinion, and everyone is entitled.

ETA: When Jesus Christ Superstar debuted in the early 70′s it was pretty controversial. The songs were played on Top 40 radio where I lived, but I remember reading and hearing a lot of flak about the content. Some Christians felt it was was blasphemous.

They say this every year – ho hum

Also, hereà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s an interesting picture:
http://thumbsnap.com/v/lI3brnyR.jpg

cheese- I don’t know where you find all these little treasures, but thank you! If I were almost blind I would have thought that was DCook and his new girl. CC FTW!

ETA: When Jesus Christ Superstar debuted in the early 70à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s it was pretty controversial. The songs were played on Top 40 radio where I lived, but I remember reading and hearing a lot of flak about the content. Some Christians felt it was was blasphemous.

Anecdotal, of course, but I remember my parents finding it blasphemous….

MJ – you kinda realize I was quoting SpencerJ, right?

Yep, Spence – it’s not a secret anymore!

I know my parents thought JCS was offensive as well. I actually played Mary in it when I moved out. We performed it in this old church. It was EXCELLENT.

KLC’s choice (whether she meant it that way or not) struck people as pandering, and that’s what offended me. It was taking advantage of people’s patriotism to get them to vote for her. I understand that other factors besides performance always come into play but considering how this country has been manipulated into all sorts of stupid situations by the same tactic it’s a touchy subject for some of us.

I agree w/everyone that theme weeks are killing the show…I can’t figure out why they took away free choice in the semi’s…and why they won’t pony up a little extra cash so we can have some themes younger ppl would actually be interested in…and not just narrow mentor themes.

Neil Diamond..seriously…this late in the competition they have to sort through that gawdawful song book.
Neil Diamond..the one hit wonder. After ‘Solitary Man’ there were a couple of medicore hits and then a bunch of crap.
‘Forever in Blue Jeans’ singlehandedly drove me away from AM radio way back when. I am convinced the guys that penned ‘This Is My Now’ attended the Neil Diamond School of Songwriting.
Studies have shown the proliferation of Neil Dimaond songs on popular radio years ago was responsible for the development of FM radio. That’s my theory and I’m stickin’ to it.

The producers will probably tweak AI again. Here are some changes to consider if they read MJ:
1) leave Ryan home during the auditions. Get a perky comedian girl-type to handle the auditions ala Sarah Silverman. Or Kim Caldwell. Bring Ryan in during Hollywood week.
2) I kind of like the celebrity judges, but they don’t have much to add do they? Maybe they are edited out? I wouldn’t mind seeing Paula replaced a few times during the beginning of the show and then she too can come in during Hollywood week.
3) I have no problem with the “pros” and “has beens”. In fact, I think it would be interesting if more “has beens” auditioned. Can anybody think of a few? There are a lot of ex-boy-band boys out there, I would like to see them audition too. IMO Carly and Michael Johns have started a “good” trend. Nothing wrong with second chances.

LOL, JSG. (I’m looking forward to Neil!) I agree with most above. I think the narrow themes have severely limited the contestants this year. I would much prefer letting the contestants show me where their musical sensibilities lie.

And thanks for the link to that picture, cheese.

I LOVE Neil baby! Confession time: I sat through “The Jazz Singer” EIGHT TIMES in a movie theater. There’s just something about a deep, gravely voice.

When I occasionally listen to Pandora, one of his songs comes on. I don’t know the name, but it has “Oh Mary, oh Mary” sung in such a way my toes curl a teeny bit.

THAT kind of girl.

It’s so funny that there’s a discussion going on about this topic because a fellow AI fan co-worker and I were talking about it his morning.

I understand that AI is trying to appeal to different audiences, but this season, it doesn’t seem like they’re trying to appeal to the under 40 audience AT ALL. We’re in our mid 20′s and we’re not even familiar with most of the songs. I can’t imagine all of the teenagers watching.

I remember back in season 2 that the guest mentors were also judges (do I really remember that correctly??), but I thought that was nice, to have an added opinion on the performances. I dunno, something better than same old same old Randy, Paula, and Simon.

In reality though, I’m one of those people who will watch the show regardless. It could be more enjoyable for me though.

Re: Ratings slide. I think many factors are at work. A natural drop in interest in something that has been on a long time and made very few changes in its format. Some of its natural young demographic simply moving on as they age. The inevitable getting-too-big-for-its-britches coupled with a loss of its natural innocence and sliding into Hollywood slick-dom, if you will.

Season 5 was its pinnacle, right before the show got the really big ego, thinking it was all that and more, and at the end of a time when truly talented nobodies populated the contestant ranks.

Re: Themes. I see them having to tread a fine line for their multi-generational audience, and I don’t see much how they can change this. Skew too young and you lose a lot of voters/buyers. Skew too old and out go the kids. Such a quandary!!!!

Re: Neil Diamond. Count me as a fan, but I fully understand people scratching their heads at the preponderance of plus-sixty, seemingly over-the-hill mentors. I might inject here that Neil still sells out ginormous venues for his hugely popular live performances. I can attest that all ages attend and all ages have a great time.

The show will NEVER please everyone in this respect.

My little .02.

I don’t know – I think the show would do a lot better again if it would stop taking itself so seriously and just had some fun! Watching Rewind of season 2 – much more casual, much more fun. They lost that after Taylor because they have turned themselves inside out to try to achieve their goal. They need to go back to gentle guidance and letting the American people think and do what they will with the contestants. Simon telling people not to vote for someone? Randy making it seem like it is a bad thing that someone’s popularity is at play in the equation? Just ludicrous! Relax! We are not picking the leader of the free world here, despite AI’s delusions!

I’m looking forward to Neil Diamond after these past couple of nonsense weeks. As far as the kids singing theme songs, in a way it’s good the younger generation hears some of the older music. All they hear on radio is for the most part, IMO, crap. So, they think that’s what music is.

One thing the theme weeks has done for me, is sent me to you tube to check out that artist’s music, if I was unfamiliar with it. It never hurts to broaden one’s library.

One reason I think the ratings are down, is because everyone already knows who is going to be in the finale. No element of surprise is there? No one expected Taylor Hicks to walk away with the title in season 5, but, he steamrolled the other contestants. TPTB weren’t happy with that, and crowned their own idol. Do they think we are stupid? I remember very early on during season 6, Randy said someone with curly hair was going to win. How did he know so far in advance of the top 12 ever stepping foot on stage? Things that make you go hmmm. Now, every chance that he and Simon have, they tell us the 2 Davids are going to be in the finale. So, the producers have it all in play for that to happen. What they seem to forget is that America loves to root for the underdog. So, why bother watching? Just tune in the last night, and, watch one of the Davids be crowned. Sure beats wasting 4-6 hours a week of our time, doesn’t it?

I think I love me some Kristy Lee Cook. Calling Simon a butt on national tv. Priceless!

Although it is probably a stretch but it would serve AI right if the decline IS associated with them making adjustments to be sure another Taylor doesn’t win. Also saying America got it wrong with Taylor is inappropriate- I can see saying that what translates well on TV may not be what the music buying public wants but to say we got it wrong as Simon has said is not right.

As you can see I’m still a little peeved about AI’s post idol treatment of Tay

You and me both hicksaholic. It has left a very sour taste in my mouth. That’s why I didn’t care about season 6. I tuned in this year, wasn’t expecting to get involved again, and, then fell in love with Jason. However, if he had not been on the show, I’d be tuning out again. They’ve done everything they can to ruin Taylor’s career, and, a part of me can’t forgive them for that.

All TV shows get old. Idol’s problem is that it no longer delivers on its premise. Their last superstar winner was three seasons ago. Plus going with the instruments this year has allowed people to make it far who aren’t really great or versatile singers. I know many people here like the folk/rock vibe the show has but it’s advertised as a singing competition.

It’s also reality TV and without interesting personalities and backstories it’s not all that engaging. It’s more than erosion when the show loses 6 million viewers from the same results show in one year. That’s almost a drop of 30%. Ouch.

Season 6 did damage to the show’s rep and I doubt this Season’s final 2 will repair that. It’s either a predictable finale or a major trainwreck.

The recording industry is in trouble. I actually think Jordin is doing quite well and will sell plat. I hope her voice recovers so she can join Alicia, because that will help.

Besides, what constitutes great singing is subjective. I love the addition of the instruments, because it brings a new dimension to the show. Apparently, the public agrees because so far every one who has left hasn’t picked up an instrument (that’s if you don’t count Chikeze’s attempt at the harmonica).

Of the remaining contestants, the one who hasn’t used an instrument (Syesha) has been in the bottom three 5 times.

Brooke has been in it twice, and Jason once. Neither David has been in it. Maybe America is looking for artists, not just singers.

I love the idea that someone suggested (Cheese, I think) to have them sing an original song in the finale.

I agree AI is too scripted and slick. Top 12 we usually know whos gonna wear the AI crown if all the manipulations work, likely they mostly do. They get more blatant each season with their manipulations too. The judges and ryan and that detestable nigel are legends in their own minds now which doesnt help things. I say let the contestants pick the song they want to sing each week. I don’t want to vote for a contestant who is singing me a lot of soul on the program then does a very urban/hip hop album Im not the slightest bit of interested in. I want to know who they are musically, not buy a pig in the poke. Ruben, Fantasia and Bo would be living it up now had they made the kind of records they were singing on the show. I know Bo didnt have any choice, that was clives mess up. I dont think there was anyway taylor was going to do better then what he has due to their great dislike of him and that should be a shame on you to them. I really think they dislike him more because his fanbase helped him win and their manipulations didnt work for a change and they cant stand losing control. I wish they would get sharon osbourne on as a judge with simon. I hear the fire flew in the UK in their show between those 2 judges. Paulas type of judging is needed to keep the kids kinda sane but shes replaceable. IMO, randy has become filler. He so wants to be THE judge and just cant break through, thus all the dawg junk. The suggestion of 2 women and one man is great. INstead of 2 women catfighting, I say paula, sharon, simon and let sharon and simon brawl. lol

Neil Diamond..seriouslyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦this late in the competition they have to sort through that gawdawful song book.
Neil Diamond..the one hit wonder. After à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Solitary Manà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ there were a couple of medicore hits and then a bunch of crap.
à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Forever in Blue Jeansà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ singlehandedly drove me away from AM radio way back when. I am convinced the guys that penned à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹This Is My Nowà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ attended the Neil Diamond School of Songwriting.
Studies have shown the proliferation of Neil Dimaond songs on popular radio years ago was responsible for the development of FM radio. Thatà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s my theory and Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m stickinà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ to it.

I love Neil Diamond. So does Rick Rubin, apparently. But YMMV and all that.

skylight1219
Apr 25th, 2008 at 3:41 pm
You and me both hicksaholic. It has left a very sour taste in my mouth. Thatà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s why I didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t care about season 6. I tuned in this year, wasnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t expecting to get involved again, and, then fell in love with Jason. However, if he had not been on the show, Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢d be tuning out again. Theyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve done everything they can to ruin Taylorà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s career, and, a part of me canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t forgive them for that.

Is it just my eyes, or have they taken Taylor’s picture out of the opening montage?

I know many people here like the folk/rock vibe the show has but ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s advertised as a singing competition

Folk and rock singers aren’t “singers”? What is it called when they open their mouths and music comes out? The show has also been billed as a “search for a superstar” and stars come in all genres. I think it’s exciting to have three singer-songwriters in the Top 5 (now if only they could sing their own songs, we would really have a competition)

Folk and rock singers arenà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“singersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ? What is it called when they open their mouths and music comes out?

:lol_tb: Sorry. But, um, that was funny. Yes, I also am ultimately enjoying the folk and rock singers this year. This show needs its credibility back. They just might help.

Whenever anyone says “after all it’s a singing competition” I can’t help but flash back to my favorite AI mentor quote ever by Peter Noone “it’s a VOTING competition”. Too hilarious. Too true.

David Cook’s Pre-Idol Music Pulled from Another Site

After topping the Amazon.com mp3 charts, Cook’s CD, “Analog Heart,” was pulled from the Amazon website on Tuesday. FOXNews.com reported on Friday that the folks from American Idol pulled Cook’s CD.

But, you could still find the Blue Springs, Missouri native’s CD on Fuzz.com. The site was selling individual songs from Cook’s album “Analog Heart” for $.99. But, as of Friday, everything under Cook’s name on Fuzz has been pulled.

My Fox Kansas City

All TV shows get old. Idolà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s problem is that it no longer delivers on its premise. Their last superstar winner was three seasons ago.

JP: good points. They need a SUPERSTAR badly. That’s why they’re pushing not only Jordin but Leona. It proves that they can still make stars. That’s why this season is especially crucial. Now that Clive is gone (or not as “powerful”) who will sign the winner(s)?

Remember it’s not only a “reality show” it’s an artist and development show. Think about Carly who had no A&R at all with MCA. What she’s learned with AI is priceless.

hicksaholic – I totally agree with you about how they treated Taylor but they also really changed their methodology since then to insure they get the result they want. They’re killing their own show. I don’t think the audience believes anymore that they can make a difference in who wins. That was the basic premise and they have no one but themselves to blame for ruining it.

David Cookà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s Pre-Idol Music Pulled from Another Site

I actually posted this up in headlines today…

totally agree with you about how they treated Taylor but they also really changed their methodology since then to insure they get the result they want

That was my point , at least that was what I was trying to say. Given that it serves TPTB right if they kill their own show.

I would love to know what went down between TPTB and Taylor It must have been horrific because as popular as Taylor was I can’t imagine there could not have been a common ground to make Taylor happy and make lots of money for AI or 19E or whoever. Everything doesn’t have to revolve completely around a quick cd They could have come up with something to capitalize on at least one of Taylor’s many talents.

mj
Apr 25th, 2008 at 6:01 pm
David Cookà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s Pre-Idol Music Pulled from Another Site

I actually posted this up in headlines todayà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦

I actually missed it. I only saw the one about it still being for sale. My apologies.

MJ- Could you help me out?? WHere is the article about DC’s ablum being pulled from another site?? Is it sitting right in front of me and I don’t see it?? HELPPPPPP.

Neil Diamond..the one hit wonder.

Seriously???? I’ve been listening to him since I was 10 or 12. He has had over 50 songs in the top 100 and over ten top 10. He’s sold over 120 MILLION records and he’s right up there with Elton John and Barbara Striesand. (source- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neil_Diamond

I actually missed it. I only saw the one about it still being for sale. My apologies.

Yikes. Sorry. My bad…

They are two different articles.

…sheepishly walks off…

I mean, can anyone name a Neyo or Pharrell Williams song?

Neyo – “Because of You” and “Hate That I Love You” (with Rihanna) have both been big hits on the charts. I know Pharrell as a producer, not a singer.

Can anybody sing or name a Justin Tim song?

Oh, just “Rock Your Body”, “Cry Me a River”, “Sexyback”, “What Goes Around Comes Around”, “My Love”, “Lovestoned”, “Summer Love”, etc…

The themes this year have been a bit too much. I might not be saying that if they had actually been allowed free reign for song choice in the semi’s, but when they do themes for those weeks TOO, it’s really led to a lot of dreariness this season, for me at least.

I’m crossing every available appendage that top 4 will FINALLY give us some sort of current theme. Please, Nigel? Pretty, pretty please??

I know Pharrell as a producer, not a singer.

I love N.E.R.D. You should check them out!

ETA: I’m in no way suggesting a Pharrell theme, however.

Here’s an article from today’s edition of the LA Times about the balloons the Dreadheads sent Jason last night. It also mentions the fact that he was sick last week.

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/showtracker/2008/04/american-idol-j.html

I just found something – Stephanie Edwards (season 6) has put out her 2nd single, called “Here I Am”.

All this time when I heard/read that Neil Diamond would be the guest mentor I had a completely different person in mind until they showed his picture on one of the entertainment shows tonight. Now I have to figure out who’s face I thought was his.

Now I really don’t have a clue what he sings other than the duet with Barbra S. I hope it’s not like the Beatle weeks when I did not recognize most of the songs. *sigh*

Yay! Jason got his balloons. We waited hours for Sooner to track him down. Darn Brit Week party. LOL Now I will go read the article. Thanks for the link, Skylight.

Interesting article. I had no idea Jason’s fanbase was so… organized. $450 for balloons? I’m sorry, but that’s like Taylor and his couch. That money could’ve gone to charity or something useful.

That said, I hope he’s feeling better. I watched the top 5 interviews on the official site and his was barely a minute long (compared to 3-5 minutes for everyone else). He seemed pretty listless (not laid back, but really listless). I wonder when they were shot. I hope he’s getting well and has A-game on for ND week.

I agree with you PJ the money from some could be spent on something else –like a good cause or to actually help someone who needs it….not to a contestant on a tv show…..I just think it is wierd .

Yeah I hope he feels better but Jason did not want it to be used as an excuse so niether will I. I just hope some fans do not use the excuse if he underpreforms next week . Funny thing it is some fans and LA times making a big deal out of it not him..Which is disturbing to some point..When they start camping out on his doorstep then Jason run..

Interesting article. I had no idea Jasonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s fanbase was soà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦ organized. $450 for balloons? Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m sorry, but thatà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s like Taylor and his couch. That money couldà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve gone to charity or something useful.

Apparently, there is controversy surrounding the whole balloon gift too. Soonerlover posted a picture of the balloons, claiming that it was taken by Jason (and attributing the blurriness to his iPhone). Consensus on IDF is that the picture was clearly photoshopped. So, here we have a bunch of crazy Dreadheads, donating money online and trusting this mysterious “soonerlover.” I agree with both pop and pj, money should be spent on something more meaningful. But what is Idol without the crazy fans?

hich is disturbing to some point..When they start camping out on his doorstep then Jason run..

Maybe that’s why Jason came out with his girlfriend story, Pop. LOL.

Anyway, to be fair, I did check out the website they referenced and they do have a lot of charity stuff listed. I still think $450 on balloons is OTT.

The only Jason blog I read is Castrocopia b/c McLovin and Liz Lemon are funny, if fangirly (can’t blame them for that). I’m tempted to check out the forums, but have resisted. LOL.

Interesting, PM. Was Sooner the money collector? Ah, the drama. LOL.

Interesting, PM. Was Sooner the money collector? Ah, the drama. LOL.

LOL. Yes, the drama.

Soonerlover was not the money collector, I believe. The role was taken by another anonymous poster who did not print a receipt of the money collected in his/her paypal account (hmm….). However, sooner was the one who posted a picture of the balloons, claiming that Jason took it with his iPhone. People are wondering, why post an obviously spliced picture? Why didn’t he/she just say that they couldn’t get a picture? Oh well, they’re referred to as the scaries for a reason, heh.

Yeah, the writers at castrocopia are hilarious– especially their know-it-all posts. LOL.

pj
Apr 26th, 2008 at 12:03 am
Interesting article. I had no idea Jasonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s fanbase was soà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦ organized. $450 for balloons? Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m sorry, but thatà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s like Taylor and his couch. That money couldà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve gone to charity or something useful.

I seem to recall the couch money did go to charity. I remember reading an article or was it a blog that said half the money went to Kid One and the other half went to Studio by the Tracks. I realize how f’n sad it is that I remember this. Going off now to find a life.

That’s really weird, Prime, because that looks pretty lame for $450, spliced or not.

Neonorange, you’re probably right. I just remember hearing that the SP bought Taylor a couch, and I thought it was funny and a little ridiculous (albeit more practical than $450 worth of balloons). Good for them if it went elsewhere.

Although the balloon thing may have been a little strange/OTT, I have no doubt that those girls had nothing but the best intentions in mind when they did it. They even took time to think out the fact that sending flowers to a sick person probably isn’t a good idea.

In general, Jason’s fans seem like courteous people (which is nice) who will do anything for him (which is sometimes scary). But, what nice looking young male celebrity doesn’t have fans like that? I think that’s exactly what it takes to become a star. More power to the fangirls!!!

Myself…I prefer to be a fan from afar. Posting on this board is pushing my limits!

The only Jason blog I read is Castrocopia b/c McLovin and Liz Lemon are funny, if fangirly (canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t blame them for that). Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m tempted to check out the forums, but have resisted. LOL.

Yeah, the writers at castrocopia are hilariousà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬’ especially their know-it-all posts. LOL.

I also love castrocopia but have not been to the forum there, either, except maybe once (too much to read!). I think their lolcastros are hilarious.

I also love castrocopia but have not been to the forum there, either, except maybe once (too much to read!). I think their lolcastros are hilarious.

Oh yez. I luv ze pantz. Sy-mon iz jealus of da pantz.
LOL.

Myselfà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦I prefer to be a fan from afar. Posting on this board is pushing my limits!

And not to mention the chatting… Hey, it’s been fun!

Ahh methinks some are getting a little worried about Jasons popularity and all these OOOH big scandals are coming to the surface.
Balloons and a goofy cute college party video Wow – Jason is bad Oh brother

On the Neil Diamond “one hit wonder” PM posted a link to a site for him and I did not realize how many hits he did have – I liked a lot of them – amazed

PM – this is the only board I post on – a guy (or girl) who knows led me here from Jasons videos on Youtube and look at me now – big ole blabber mouth

It’s funny that a semi critical post about Jason’s balloons turned into a love fest. Heh. I’m not complaining. I like the dude. Heeeeh.

I don’t disagree with the balloons. Jason got thrown under the bus Tuesday night. If that wasn’t bad enough, ALW backed it up and ran over him again. He needed a little boost. And, as far as charity, until fans are aware of which charities Jason favors, its senseless to donate to one in his name at this juncture. There is a charitable drive going on too. But, why do people have to rain on other’s parades when they wanted to lift his spirits after the thrashing he received? And, lots of people donated money, so, if it was just a $1 or $2 per person, it didn’t take long to add up.

Personally, I didn’t donate, but, I really think it was a thoughtful jesture. Speaking of the money going to charities reminds me of someone in the Bible who criticized another for giving an expensive gift, because he thought the money could’ve been better spent helping the poor. He later hanged himself.

Personally, I didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t donate, but, I really think it was a thoughtful jesture. Speaking of the money going to charities reminds me of someone in the Bible who chastised the others because he thought the money couldà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve been better spent helping the poor. He later hanged himself.

I don’t think using Scriptures to back up your point is appropriate. First of all, Jason Castro is not Jesus Christ (even though the initials are strikingly similar, er, the same). Giving him balloons is not the same as pouring perfume on his feet, although I wouldn’t doubt that the dreadheads would love to do that. And as you yourself pointed out, it was probably just $1 or $2 per person, and not the equivalent of 2 months wages like the perfume was.

Finally, I’m not trying to play Judas. That would be Carly Smithson, heh.

Ahh methinks some are getting a little worried about Jasons popularity and all these OOOH big scandals are coming to the surface.
Balloons and a goofy cute college party video Wow – Jason is bad Oh brother

Here’s the deal. I don’t tolerate fan wars. Please read my guidelines and follow them:

http://mjsbigblog.com/?page_id=1172

If you can’t keep yourself from lashing out at posters who criticize Jason, I would suggest not posting.

I try to keep things civil here. Please respect your fellow posters and their opinions.

I’m pretty sure (hope) Jason isn’t so fragile that he can’t handle the pressure and needs $450 worth of balloons. Didn’t meant to cause a stir by saying it was a bit OTT. I still think so. No biggie.

I went to that site in the LA Times article and there were a few charities identified. And, I get the impression (totally projecting here) that Jason is the type of guy who would appreciate anyone giving to the charity of their choice.

I’m sure the fans had the best intentions, but what happened to those balloons once they were delivered? I hope they didn’t go to waste.

Anyway, my various fangroup experiences have led me to a no-gift policy with the Idols. Or any celebrity, for that matter.

Hereà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s the deal. I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t tolerate fan wars. Please read my guidelines and follow them:

I was not lashing out at the people on here, I was referring the the articles coming out about balloons and videos just recently one after another. This is my take on the balloon deal. At work when someone is sick we all chip in a dollar or two and come up with enought to purchase them something to make them feel better. I jasons case they have a lot more people than we do at my office so it added up to a lot more, thus the 450.00 for balloons but they and my work also do other good deeds with our monies. For the Big Give we gave out 10,000.00 to the community and brought that up to about 200,000.00. So, I think getting all these people together for Jason or whomever (my favs are cook and castro after mj left) they got all these people to get up 450.00 for just balloons, I can just imagine how much they have gotten together to give to charities

Finally, Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m not trying to play Judas. That would be Carly Smithson, heh.

Oh, you made my night, PM.

Sorry, MJ. Didn’t meant to cause a stir. I agree that the intentions are pure, but the reality is that VFTW will find the article and make fun of him making helium voices with those balloons. More power to them. LOL.

Hopefully, he’ll be their next choice.

Sorry, MJ. Didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t meant to cause a stir. I agree that the intentions are pure, but the reality is that VFTW will find the article and make fun of him making helium voices with those balloons. More power to them. LOL.

I think Idol gifts are all about getting the Idol to notice you. A fan group spends time supporting their Idol. They want that person to know they exist, to validate them in some way. Hence, the gifts that may seem a little OTT. I mean, the balloons sure got his attention, and the mention in the paper must have been heaven.

So, it’s like a little game. The fans give the gift, the Idol acknowledges the fans in whatever way. If it’s a t-shirt, he might wear it onstage. The fans get all excited. It creates a relationship of sorts between the fans and the idol. The gift-giving thing is a very ingrained part of the Idol ritual at this point.

Things can go wrong, though, if the fans don’t get the reaction they were hoping for from their Idol. There is a downside sometimes.

I was not lashing out at the people on here, I was referring the the articles coming out about balloons and videos just recently one after another. This is my take on the balloon deal.

Ok, sorry if I misunderstood you, I thought you were reacting to PJ.

It’s that time of the year when things begin to get a little snarly in the idol fandom! I’m a little touchy these days, hoping to keep the peace around here.

ETA: But I would say in general, that we all respect each other’s right to an opinion without being judgmental. Criticism is an opportunity to spark conversation, not lectures from the Bible. Ok?

I’m sorry if someone else mentioned this, but why are people acting surprised that this isn’t just a singing competition all of a sudden? Helloooo, it never has been. It’s about singing and likability and marketability… just like every other artist in the pop music arena.

Also, concerning JCS- I’ve never seen it so I don’t know why it’s considered blasphemous to some people. My mom was taught that rock and roll was evil when she was young, so she said that she thinks that had a lot to do with it. How DARE they mix Jesus and rock music?! *gasp*

And those balloons are creepy. I’m glad Jason has security around him. Eek!

I’m with everyone else on the themes. I don’t like them at all (although, to be fair it has given us the chance to see how creative some of the contestants can be).

Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m sure the fans had the best intentions, but what happened to those balloons once they were delivered? I hope they didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t go to waste.

Anyway, my various fangroup experiences have led me to a no-gift policy with the Idols. Or any celebrity, for that matter.

I also think $450 for balloons may be a bit too much. However, I also agree it may have been just $1 or $2 per person, which added up to a lot because of the number of people who chipped in. I wonder, too, though, where all those balloons ended up.

I confess I am guilty of contributing to a fund for Idol gifts. Heh. :p We, some of the Pinoy fans of Elliott, once contributed a few pesos each to get him an inexpensive “mini-me” doll, which we handed to him when he came to Manila for his shows. Thankfully, Elliott really appreciated it (and he even put up a picture of it as his myspace profile pic for several weeks, which, of course, thrilled us to no end). More recently, too, we pitched in and came up with a couple of hundred dollars, which we donated to the Richmond JDRF chapter in the name of Claudette (in lieu of flowers, per Elliott’s request).

On second thought, I don’t really feel so guilty, after all. It wasn’t an exorbitant amount of money I gave freely and I’m sure it was appreciated by the recipient. Besides, I know I (and maybe others) spend a lot of money, too, on other (what may be considered) non-essential things, which I could have given to charity (but didn’t).

Thanks Mj – I wouldnt ever attack PJ

I wasn’t giving a lecture from the Bible, just making an analogy. Since I don’t get involved in donations of any kind to the idols, it really doesn’t matter to me. I just thought it was a nice gesture. And, MJ, you may be right, it could be a way of the fan bases getting noticed, or making a connection with the idol. Anyway, I will leave the motivation up to those who came up with the idea, and those who contributed.

This will become the norm when the tour hits. The idols will be bombarded with gifts, mostly useless ones, I think. Heck, I don’t even hang around to get autographs. I see this as a talent show, nothing more, nothing less, and, don’t actually recognize the contestants as stars for some reason. With the exception of Carrie Underwood. And, I’m not even a fan of hers. Go figure!

Ok, the Judas remark = Carly was funny!

I’ve also wondered where all those balloons are going to end up. They will deflate quickly, and, probably not even be useful to be given to a children’s hospital. But,w hat do I know?

I know money was given back to some who made later donations for the balloons. Also, money has been collected for David Cook’s brother. Yes, the Jason fans may have been OTT but their hearts were in the right place. Maybe a dozen balloons would have been better?

I post on Jason’s threads but I am not sure if they were able to donate the balloons elsewhere. His fans just love him so much.