Neil Diamond Week – What Should The Idols Sing?

I realize “Girl, You’ll Be A Woman Soon” would probably be a predictable DCook pick, but I think it could seriously be crazy molten fireball molotov cocktail flamethrower* kinds of hot.

*It must be exhausting being Randy.

P.S. Shameful secret: I cannot tell the difference between Neil Diamond and Neil Young. Maybe it’s for the best.

MJ, do you really think that Jason/Brooke will be eliminated over Syesha in a week that favors their styles over hers? That struck me as curious.

grrrr–I also did not know the difference between the two Neils. And the only Diamond song I know is Sweet Caroline, and that after I would tell people that I had never heard of Neil Diamond before, and they would thus proceed to sing Sweet Caroline to me. Seriously–how many people could sing that to me in one week? I’ve lost count.

That said–I’ve got no suggestions. Looking forward to what Jason, Brooke and David C will bring to the table!

I don’t know what I want them to sing, but I flove that photo.

MJ, do you really think that Jason/Brooke will be eliminated over Syesha in a week that favors their styles over hers? That struck me as curious.

It depends on how well Syesha performs this week. Actually, if she totally bombs, she could get sympathy votes.

She’s got a voting base all to herself at this point. I can see her making it to 3rd place.

I’m not sure how deep the Idols will be able to go with their song choices but here are my choices:
Brooke: “The Gift of Song” (Seranade)- Piano driven, perfect lyrics, sweet” “I Believe in Happy Endings” (3 Chord Opera & Saving Silverman movie) – again, sweet. I found it hard to find an uptempo choice she would be comfortable with.
Cookie: “I Am…I Said (Stones – reprise version), Cherry, Cherry, Holly Holy.
Jason: “Play Me” (Moods) I’d melt, thank yewww! Crunchy Granola Suite (Stones).
Syesha: “Hello Again (Jazz Singer) “Thank the Lord for the Night Time”
Archie: “He Aint Heavy”, “I’ve Been This Way Before”, “I’m Alive”.

Sacre bleu! Neil Young is cool, and Neil Diamond, well, polyester!

In junior high band, we played many Neil Diamond songs. I think our band teacher loved Neil Diamond. We did “Play Me” and “Song Sung Blue” among others. It was a mess.

Anyway, as much as I love UB40s red, red wine, I find the song sort of tuneless. I don’t think it would work as a solo. I hope that Jason doesn’t pick the reggae-beat red, red wine.

If the powers that be want to get the young people in, Neil Diamond is going to have the opposite effect. I’m going to have a hard time this week digging the songs myself.

Neil smoldered with a singer/songwriter passion in his early days. His baritone and piercing stares were powerful tools. If you would watching his early stuff on youtube you’d see what I mean. The problem is Neil became overblown, schmaltzy, and “sparkly” in the 80′s and 90′s. That’s the Neil most people remember. Too bad.

ETA: School bands can suck the life out of a good song, LOL

I am not a fan of Mr Diamond. All the aunts liked him when I was a kid. Thus this show scares me. By the way, Cook’s studio version of “Music of the Night” is amazing. I never really liked the song before…..now it brings tears.

Yeah, as a member of Red Sox Nation I believe that Sweet Caroline is NOT a good AI song. It’s kind of like singing, “Celebrate good times, come on!” It’s for the 7th inning stretch and weddings….we add the duh duh duh when appropriately intoxicate, or just when we’re feeling it… I am sure someone could do it in a manner that’d be cool, but my gut reaction is do not go there!!!

As another thought, MrTrep informed me that Neil Diamond is quite a song writer and has done much beyond the hits he sang. So if someone happens to know if it’s just the songs he sang or if it’s the songs he’s written it could be a different gig…

I realize I know a lot of Neil Diamond songs. My mother was a big fan. I’d collapse in a puddle of goo if Jason sang “Play Me”!

are u sure they sing two songs? its only one hr. long can they fit 10 songs? the top 10 was 1.5 hrs.

(….hangs head in shame…..)

I know way TOOOOOOOO much about Neil ” I love him” Diamond. Just to give you a few facts that most of you don’t know about him

1- I reason he did the movie Jazz Singer ( and yes I have a copy of it….sigh….my street cred is totally shot) was because of Barry Manilow. BM and ND had a pretty intense rivalry back in the 70′s. The producers really wanted ND to star in the movie and told him that if he didn’t do it, BM would. ND couldn’t stand the thought of BM in that movie so he caved and the rest is history.

2-He originally wanted to choose the stage name of Icee Cherry….no lie peeps!!!

My choices for DC are
Forever in Blue Jeans, Love on the Rocks and Play Me.

Gotta think over my choices for the rest of them……

are u sure they sing two songs? its only one hr. long can they fit 10 songs? the top 10 was 1.5 hrs.

Yes. I am sure.

The question on the two songs is: Are both songs Diamond songs?

I would hope one Diamond song and one song of their choice…..

baxter, no need to apologize. I get it. I’ve lost count as to the number of concerts I’ve attended. I just keep reminding myself it was once kewl to admit you liked his stuff. Now, I have to clarify “early stuff”. I use “Forever in Blue Jeans” as my concert pee break, so…no…DC…step away from the disaster.

are u sure they sing two songs? its only one hr. long can they fit 10 songs? the top 10 was 1.5 hrs.

In the top 10 show thay had a contestant “package” preceeding each performance. When they have the top 5 do sing 2 songs each, only the first song is preceeded by a ‘package’. Therefor able to fit the 10 performances in one hour…

The only ND songs I like are the ones he did for the Monkees and some other early ones. The rest to me are horrible sludge. Barry Manilow has mega edge compared to him. I don’t want to think what this crew will do with his more morose songs. Ugh.

MrRJ
Apr 28th, 2008 at 10:55 am
The question on the two songs is: Are both songs Diamond songs?

I would hope one Diamond song and one song of their choiceà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦..

Both songs will be Neil Diamond songs.

i think the only way brooke can make top 3 is if she makes it to top 4 over syesha this week and its itunes top 100 or billboard next week and she sings love song by sara bareilles

Neil smoldered with a singer/songwriter passion in his early days. His baritone and piercing stares were powerful tools. If you would watching his early stuff on youtube youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢d see what I mean. The problem is Neil became overblown, schmaltzy, and à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“sparklyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  in the 80à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s and 90à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s. Thatà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s the Neil most people remember. Too bad.

So true, this!

Neil’s early catalog has some great, well-respected, music in it. He did get a bit too schmaltzy and that image, sadly, stuck.

He has re-gained some of his cred with his last two albums, though, but, sadly, he is an “old guy” now, and likely not many will hear that music.

He is still a force to be reckoned with on the tour circuit.

This week on American Idol has lots of people looking for ND songs. Here is a list I’ve compiled with all of Neil’s available tracks on iTunes, Rhapsody and Napster:

Neil Diamond Song List

mj, you should definitely check out Diamond’s later work with Rick Rubin. It’s very simple, more of a throwback to his earlier stuff, and there are some lovely, lovely songs that could work very well for the Idols. “Evermore” would be fantastic for Brooke, “Men Are So Easy” would fit Jason Castro like a glove, and David Cook could do a fantastic job on “Delirious Love” or “Hell Yeah.” They’re less recognizable to the public than the Sweet Carolines or the Shilohs of the Neil Diamond catalog, but they still sound like Neil.

I also thought I hated Neil Diamond, but I am finding that I love his 1971 live Gold album and 2005 “12 Songs” album. Everything in between, not so much. My picks so far:

David A – “He’s Not Heavy, He’s My Brother” (it’s even been a sappy group number on AI before. Perfect!); “I’m a Believer” (this could be really corny, but I think he has to do uptempo and most of Neil’s more uptemp songs are too old for him lyrically). If he sings the freakin’ ET song I WILL find some way to get him booted.

Syesha – “Thank the Lord for the Nighttime” (should be molten hot lava bomb); “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” (barf)

David C – “Solitary Man” and “Play Me” (I must say, though the new black and red cowboy boots say Kentucky Woman or Cherry, Cherry to me.) If he takes a risk and sings a more recent song (like he did with Little Sparrow), I love “Save Me a Saturday Night” from “12 Songs”. I think he could make it a midtempo alt-rock song. I actually had trouble picking for him because a lot of the good, old Neil stuff would be hard to make contemporary sounding (Cherry, Cherry and Two-Bit Manchild are rock enough and great fun, but really, really 1960s). DC has set the bar high for himself and I think he HAS to do a clever rearrangement after singing one straight last week.

I’m still thinking about Jason and Brooke.

ETA: Kat, I love Delirious Love for DC, too, but I think it’s too racy for AI. I would be thrilled if he sang it.

mj
Apr 28th, 2008 at 10:09 am
MJ, do you really think that Jason/Brooke will be eliminated over Syesha in a week that favors their styles over hers? That struck me as curious.

It depends on how well Syesha performs this week. Actually, if she totally bombs, she could get sympathy votes.

Sheà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s got a voting base all to herself at this point. I can see her making it to 3rd place.

I can also see this. Syesha is like a slightly diluted version of Season 4′s Vonzell Solomon – beautiful with a pretty-decent-but-not-original voice. Also, like Baby V, she corners the R&B/diva market, just like Vonzell did once Nikko Smith was gone. Yeah, I can definitely see that (surprisingly) happening.

MN Sue- Gotta admit my love for FOrever In Blue Jeans. I thought of this for DC because of the sound of the song not the lyrics. I think he could pull it off. BUt then again, just like MJ said, picking any song for DC is next to impossible.

FOr those of you that don’t know any ND songs, I think you will be surprised once you hear them. The lightbulb will go off and the ah ha moment will hit you.

I hope the none of the Idols sing Sweet Caroline. Too iconic for several reasons and kinda cheesey. Just say NO!!!

I get Neil Diamond confused with Neil Sedaka… tells you how much I like his music. I am lost as to what these kids should sing.

If Jason can really nail his first song choice, then Red Red Wine in a reggae style could really work as a contrast style piece, but only if he shows vocal ability in his first song.

I think Archuletta will do very well unless he has a lyric lapse again, and is called out for it.

If Syesha gets love from the judges, she will stay in this thing. I think they swayed enough votes for her last week. If they don’t like her (esp Simon) she won’t be able to compete with the fanbases of the other 4. I think she knows this and will bring it.

DC will have no problem with this theme. I expect him to keep to the original style on one tune and to rock up his other choice. Should be good.

Brooke should be fine, but it is really a story of nerves for her, esp since there are 2 tunes this week.

FOr those of you that donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t know any ND songs, I think you will be surprised once you hear them. The lightbulb will go off and the ah ha moment will hit you.

Yep. I thought I didn’t know any, then I started listening to “September Morn”, and I was like, “Oh yeah!” His voice is pretty distinct. I remember a lot of his music from my childhood. I think my parents were ND fans…or something. :eek_wp:

Good choices, cheese. There’s a fine line between recognizable = corny and obscure = respectable. Which would garner more votes for Syesha/Brooke/Jason?

Brooke: “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers”

Syesha: “Brother Love’s Travelin’ Salvation Show”

Jason: “I Am I Said”

David Cook: “Solitary Man”

David A: “September Morn”

New to the party here. I love Neil Diamond. Here he is in the movie The Last Waltz with some pretty darn good company. The Band, Dylan, Clapton, Neil Young (third from the left for those of you that had the two Neils confused – lol), Joni Mitchell, Van Morrison, Emmylou Harris, Ringo Starr, Ron Wood………….

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1nbrmP9kQCc

Here’s Neil’s solo from the same movie.

Dry Your Eyes (I could see David Cook doing this one)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RurccWvJiS8

And I agree with the poster above. Jason needs to do this song.

Play Me

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kKdDdzdMUW4

I’m not so sure about Syesha lasting….Even with an excellent performance and lots o’ loving from the judges, she was STILL in the bottom two, and I can’t see a bunch of Carly’s votes going for her.

Please, let me be right. PLEASE!!

I’ve said it before, I love me some Neil. Sexy, sexy voice…

Syesha on “Thank the Lord For the Nighttime” would be interesting. If she keeps up the momentum of last week’s performance, she could wind up in the final three, and that’s just the performance to get her there. Her problem though, I think, is that 1) IMO she’s not very likable and 2) while her performance was fantastic last week, the vocals left a LOT to be desired, and I honestly don’t think the voters are that stupid. Unremarkable vocals have been Syesha’s weak spot, and IMO if she’s going to go with a raucous number, she should balance it out with one of Neil’s sweeter, slower songs and show a bit more texture to her voice.

Jason needs to bring out the bongos or drums I think and Sooliamon would be good for that, get him moving around the stage with a guitar in his hands with Cherry Cherry and I think David C should do Holly Holy

If Jason cares about the female mosh pit and the female voter he has no choice but to sing “Play Me”. Are you listening, Jason? PLAY ME!!!

David Cook – Holly Holy, he could really rock it out and smolder the lyrics at the same time.

MN Sue
Apr 28th, 2008 at 11:38 am
If Jason cares about the female mosh pit and the female voter he has no choice but to sing à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Play Meà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ . Are you listening, Jason? PLAY ME!!!

Hmmmmm…let’s hope he’s listening.

Another FYI
Think of the most Hot, cool guy doin’ music today for you.
THAT is what Neil Diamond actually was in his young days (not the later stuff-days) and his concerts were considered the hottest thing around. His concerts were high energy that blew people away. He REALLLLLY entertained to throngs of sold out concerts. This was no Barry Manilow in style. Take a look at some of his old videos of him with the long hair when he was young and check out that face. So far the vids I see are just some live appearances NOT his actual concerts which were beyond dynamic.

Re the vids on youtube…the ones im talking about he doesnt just have medium long hair, but has really long hair. The longer the hair the younger he was.

Oh or Play Me for Jason or David C – I really think Jason should do good, Simon has always said the big note gets the vote – maybe not this week?

If DAVID C cares about the female mosh pit and the female voter he has no choice but to sing à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Play Meà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ . Are you listening, DAVID? PLAY ME!!!

Fixed.

iThere is an interesting note in “headlines” section of this wonderful Blog that shows there have only been four, count em, four songs from the last DECADE sung this year. Now we have Diamond, who does have a whopping 12 new songs, but whose fame and prolific writing period were long ago. A very curious choice of a mentor.

I’m expecting great things from JC, DC, and BW this week. I’m not sure about the other two. I also don’t think performance lineup is going to matter as much this week – at least not as much as fan loyalty.

Somehow, the thought of Archie singing “Girl You’ll Be a Woman Soon” is very entertaining. If he does sing it, I’ll cast a vote for him.

It’s a shame so many young people don’t know who Neil Diamond is or appreciate his music. He’s wrote so many great songs it’s hard to pick just 10 but here we go:
Jason – I Am, I Said
Red Red Wine (sung with a Folk arrangement)

Brooke – Heartlight
Hello Again
Song Sung Blue

Syesha – September Morning
Brother Love’s Traveling Show

David A – Holy, Holy
Coming to America

David Cook – He could do several songs but the ones I think he would just score with are:
Shiloh
Solitary Man
He could even do
He Ain’t Heavy He’s My Brother ( for obvious reasons)

“My voice is unadorned. I don’t try for perfection. I try to be honest and truthful and soulful with the voice I have. If I make mistakes in notes, or there are cracks in notes, I don’t fix them. That’s the way it is.” Neil Diamond

Thats Jason – I will take him cracks and all – I hope he gets to the end with David C

Tee Hee Cheese. I’d be, ahem, moved by either one of them singing it. Wanna arm wrestle for it?

Someone suggested Cracklin Rosie for Jason and oh I hope not. I believe Jason chooses songs in which the words have some meaning to him and I dont think. “Oh I love my rosie child, you got the way to make me happy” or “Cracklin Rose your a store bought woman” would be words he would choose??

Tee Hee Cheese. Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢d be, ahem, moved by either one of them singing it. Wanna arm wrestle for it?

As long as Archie doesn’t sing it, I’m good!

If Syesha gets love from the judges, she will stay in this thing. I think they swayed enough votes for her last week

How do you put this in quotes like everyone else mj??

Anyhow – someone wrote this above and lets not forget that Simon gave Carly that love and she was gone the next day!

I’d like to see Jason and Archie do at least one song that play’s against expectations. I think Jason should tackle at least one of Neil’s more hairy-chested, anthems such as “Solitary Man’ or “I Am I Said” and little David should go out and have fun with “Brother Love’s Travelin Show” or “Forever In Blue Jeans” or “Cherry, Cherry” (knowing full well that he is already rehearsing something from the “Jonathan Livingston Seagull” soundtrack.)

There are just too many wonderful choices for Cookie. I could see him causing a full scale earthquake in Cooktardistan if he did “Play Me” or “Delirious Love” from the Rick Rubin produced album.

I need to think some more about Brooke and Syesha.

Sumidol, Copy, hit b-quote, paste, hit close tags

How about Love on the Rocks for DA? :lol_tb: ?

I think Heartlight would be wonderful for Brooke. Good suggestion Jeweldude.

(knowing full well that he is already rehearsing something from the à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Jonathan Livingston Seagullà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  soundtrack.)

Really, bee? Fact or speculation. I guess I should’t be surprised.

Theres a difference between what I’d LIKE to hear vs. what I think.

Here’s a couple:

Jason – Red Red Wine (no brainer – has his name all over it) and ?

Archie – Heartlight and ?

Syesha – You Don’t Bring Me Flowers and ?

DC – PLEASE GOD Holly Holy and Solitary Man or He Ain’t Heavy (but w/brother situation maybe not best choice) or whatever he selects cause I think it will be good.

Brooke – I want to care so badly, but I don’t.

eta: I saw Neil D. in concert several years ago. My knowledge of him was somewhat limited and then I found myself saying “oh I didn’t know he wrote that song.” He is a great live performer, believe it or not, and is still in good voice. However, his clothes skeered me – hope he doesn’t get too close to an open flame (poly-jester) with sparkles on the shirt.

Neil Diamond was really big when I was growing up. It’s been fun watching all the clips on youtube to see what I think would be good choices! Most of them seem to be guy songs. “Play Me” would be awesome by JC or DC. Personally, want JC to do at least one fun song, such as “I’m a Believer”, and act like a 21-year-old. So many ballads this year! While I dislike JCSuperstar, did enjoy seeing Carly rock out last week, and Syesha doing the vamp thing. So bring the fun this week, Jason! You’re over your illness and you got a big bunch of balloons and you have a cute gf – show that joyfulness!

It doesnt matter what song they end up singing, but what they do with their voices. These particular songs could come across very bland if they don’t “do” something that takes it somewhere and not just sung straight. Brooke & Jason especially can be prone to that. Mix it up a little. Jason has quirky voice inflections that really appeal and when he sings parts of it louder..change it up more.

I am the only one who may think this but here it goes my song choice..

David Cook or Jason C (thanks savgirl)-”I”m a Believer” from the Monkees ok I thnk it will be fun but this might happen….(yes before my time I like that music)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-33aU6fKrw

A little humor helps now and then I mean the video ..I do want the idols to do well I am a big softy underneath..

For the music people on this blog -who is Johnathan Livingston? The monkeys was a show about a band but was it american show? Kristen is your igloo melted yet?

Really, bee? Fact or speculation. I guess I shouldà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t be surprised.

Total speculation on my part. I just figured that the schmaltziest, most inspirational songs would have to come from that album.

David C nor Jason sing songs just “straight” they are both unique. But as Simon always says the big notes get the votes. I love them both but a different times and for different reasons

I’ve liked Neil Diamond for a long time. I saw him in concert about 10 years ago and his voice is not what it was when he was younger (whose is?).

The ND songbook is huge and I think all of these different styles could find something in there.

Who is rumored to be doing a Jonathan Livingston Seagull song–David A? We sang some of those way back when when I was in high school chorus. Some beautiful songs in that movie. Be, Dear Father etc.

I think Brooke and Jason, and maybe David A could do well with ND songs. David C seems to do well regardless of the song category.

It might be a tough week for Syesha.

Prime minister – can you post that link again for the Neil songs that you did a day or two ago – please?

I hope to God that no one does You Don’t Bring Me Flowers. That really needs to be a duet (like NK/Barbra Streisand did it).

Now that I know that Sweet Caroline was written for Caroline Kennedy, I think they should avoid that one as well.

Jason! Youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re over your illness and you got a big bunch of balloons and you have a cute gf – show that joyfulness!

Cute gf?!! WHO?!! :sad_tb:

For the music people on this blog -who is Johnathan Livingston? The monkeys was a show about a band but was it american show? (written by poporange)

Honey, Jonathon Livingston Seagull is a book made into a movie back in the 70′s about a Seagull. Neil Diamond wrote the music for the movie.
The “Monkees” was in deed a show on television about a band and was yes an american made show. It was on in the late 60′s and early 70′s. Yes I am showing my age but I feel ya’ll need an education in early television and music. LOL

Just watched Play Me, agreed that it would be a slam dunk for Jason, as long as they gave him the dark lights and face shots like in Hallelujah.

I can see Archuletta doing I’m a Believer. He really needs to have an uptempo success like Shop Around. I actually think that was one of his better performances this season, it was fitting for his age and he was comfortable singing it.

Jewel: I can see the cover of the book in my mind….the dark blue sky with the single white seagull. I think the movie had no dialogue – wasn’t it just music and kind of a cartoon?

I think that positive comments are actually benficial to Syesha at the this point, namely because she really hasn’t gotten much love from the judges at all this season. It isn’t going to hurt. As for Carly, the judges all at one point or another had liked her performances and noted she had the strongest female voice- even when they had negatives, they were still praising her vocal skills. Syesha really hasn’t gotten that kind of treatment, so praise of any kind is helpful- I think this what kept her from leaving last week.

Yes, to all ya’ll that think David A will probably do something from Jonathan Livingston Seagull. Those songs are not as well known and they have that “anthem” sound. His likes that kind of stuff.

the Neil Diamond song links are on the castrocopia fansite. I don’t have the link, but it should be easy to find.

Sounds like with the exception of David Cook, Tuesday will be a barf-fest. This has the potential to be the worst episode of Idol EVER. Who is the next mentor? Yanni?

To longsong:

No, not a cartoon, it was a real seagull but there was no dialogue.

I know a total of TWO Neil Diamond songs and am not at all excited about this week.

I just hope that Jason makes it through and that next week’s theme is better.

If Jason chooses wisely, this should be an EXCELLENT week for him.

MrRJ – Yanni? Nah.. how about Raffi?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSzDTimusmc&feature=related

Neil Diamond isn’t all that awful — they haven’t brought in Donny Osmond, or Keith Partridge yet. How about Bobby Sherman?

… where’s the little barfie-smiley?

Barry Manilow? Donny Osmond? Bobby Sherman? Have a little respect for “The Neilster”.

http://www.milkandcookies.com/link/31749/detail/

wfowfowfo …..Thanks for the smile!!!!! Raffi it is and Hap Palmer too!
( Can’t wait to see if ND has a comb-over )

LOL!!! Bobby Sherman, thanks a lot! I now have “Hey Little Woman” running thru my head!

I agree with you guys, this theme is not doing it for me. I wouldn’t mind so much if they hadn’t been doing oldies all season long. If they had allowed free song choice in the Top 24 -16 rounds, this wouldn’t be so bad, but they have been SO restricted in song choice this year. We want to hear stuff like what these kids are actually going to do after they leave this show!!!

David A – Let the Little Boy Sing. Would show a different side of David and also is an interesting play on words.

Jason C – And the Grass Won’t Pay No Mind. Fits Jason’s voice perfectly.

Both songs are on youtube.

The beesims link is must see. I haven’t laughed that much on a Monday in a loooong time.

I like some of Neil’s early stuff – but the later stuff is crap. “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” ranks pretty high on my personal list of stupidest songs ever.

I do really like Sweet Caroline, and I’ll be very happy if someone sings a Monkees song. But, I really have no idea who should sing what.

I’m just hoping this theme night is entertaining. I don’t want to be bored to death.

I don’t think Neil Diamond is all that awful, either, but what’s got me going from the early comments is the thought of Cook doing Neil Young. Oh my, what a treat it would be to hear him to “Down By the River”. Or “Harvest Moon”. Or “Cinnamon Girl”. Damn.

Y’all who say you don’t know the difference, rest assured, Neil Diamond is NOT interchangable with Neil Young.

Rita

Neil Diamond…sigh talk about dated…my mom listened to this stuff. And I’m no tween, I’m almost 30! There might be some nice surprises though, like Dolly week (I didn’t know most of her songs either.)

Please Idol have a current theme next week….!

Agh! Neil Diamond. I’m having nightmarish flashbacks to my mom playing her “Hot August Night” album (complete with scratches) over and over and over again.

I could see Jason doing “Holly Holy” and DCook doing “Girl, You’ll be a Woman Soon” complete with eye-seduction, and I would just die from happiness if that happens.

I like some of the suggestions already made. I think they each need to do one upbeat number and one ballad, or it will be kind of dreary. Anyone want to bet me that Syesha chose “You Don’t Bring Me Flower?”

That Will Ferrell clip is hilarious, if only this week’s shows were 1/2 as entertaining. The next song is fueled by my massive hatred of immigrants….

Ok, indulge me. I can’t help it, I’m now giggling at the thought of Cook doing a cover of Neil Young on the American Idol stage. For those who know Neil Young’s songs, doesn’t it crack you up to think of the reaction he’d get to singing this chorus on a Tuesday night?

Yeah, she could drag me over the rainbow, send me away
Down by the river I shot my baby
Down by the river,
Dead, oh, shot her dead.

Not exactly puppies and theme parks, is it?

LOL,

Rita

I’m totally on the Jason singing “Play Me” train! And I mean that in a non-fangirly way; since, let’s face it, I’m too old to be a fangirl, LOL. I think he could do a really nice rendition of this song. I think his other choice should be something more upbeat. Red, Red Wine is too predictable.

I think Cookie will do well with pretty much anything. The others, meh, who cares?

Oh, and on the Neil Diamond vs. Neil Young thing – OMG what I would give if they were doing Neil Young instead of Neil Diamond. I would love to hear someone do “Sugar Mountain” or “Cowgirl in the Sand”.

Want to see Jason do one uptempo and one mellow this week. I love “Brother Love’s Traveling Salvation Show”, great song that starts slow and builds to an awesome rousing finish. Would love to hear Jason “go gospel” on that one!

I think huckleberryfriend your right, “Let the Little Boy Sing would be perfect for David A.

Anyone want to bet me that Syesha chose à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“You Donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t Bring Me Flower?à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ 

Hell no I’m not taking that bet. I think there’s a better than average chance she’ll choose that. And, if she does – I’ll vote all night long for anyone butt her. Anyone who dips that far into the cheese needs to be sent home right quick.

I like a lot of Neil Diamond – NOT cracklin rosie or brother love but Play me – Shilo etc. My first husband passed away and they took me thru that like Jasons songs soothe and so on. But it might not be a “barf fest” like someone else said. Look at Walk The Line by Daughtry – Billie Jean –

My teens showed me how songs can be sooo changed up and still good – like Umbrella by Rihanna is sooo different when sung by All Time Low and so on. So dont be afraid, it will be ok

I meant NOT Cracklin rosie or brother love eewwww

RITA LMAO as my kids would say at the thought of that

Laughing – at the Bobby Sherman comment – Lets have Cook sing Julie julie julie do ya love me – oh lordy I am soooo old.

Syesha tends to go with the predicable, so we may have to suffer through You Don’t Bring Me Flowers. She won’t get good reviews for that song, though, it is too syrupy and she will overdo it.

Mocha, I agree! I would have to scream if anyone does “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” I hate that song for personal reasons, but aside from that it’s just not a solo song. Maybe if they do a duet with each other, like maybe Jason and Syesha but not by herself. Even she isn’t that brave. But I could be wrong, would not be the first time.

i have had fun listening to ND songs today brings back memories

what our contestants should sing is up in the air for me
but i expect it to be a very interesting nite:)

American Idol “getting” Neil Diamond will be a huge ratings coup. It’s easy to act like he’s “way over the hill,” but ND is still a great musician, a prolific song writer, and an unbelievably popular performer. His shows are always sold out and they still get top dollar. There are VIP packages for his shows that people “demand” and they average $450 each (first ten or twenty rows depending on venue, plus M&G.) The man is a legend!

Just like everyone ragged on Barry Manilow, but were pleasantly surprised with his mentoring, and with the great job the kids did with his songs – it will happen again with ND. No doubt, the only reason he’s appearing on Idol, is to promote his new album – and I think there’s probably plenty of people who are ticked off that he’s “lowering” himself to that level. IMO, He must have been shown some pretty massive numbers to agree to this. He doesn’t need Idol to sell out his tour or any other live appearances, for sure. But he’s a smart businessman, and someone has convinced him that an appearance will be worth the promotion of this new cd to millions of people. He’d be foolish, I guess, to refuse.

But Neil Diamond is no “has been” and TPTB are no doubt deliriously proud of themselves for getting him.

On a personal note, I’ll never forget a morning years ago, when my boss, who was a millionaire many times over, came into the office acting like a giddy teenager. He had just found out that ND was touring again, and he’d be seeing him for the seventh time! You could have knocked me over – this guy who was all business and oh so successful, was absolutely thrilled at the prospect of a ND concert. It was a side of the man I never knew existed and that was when I really began to pay attention any time ND’s name was mentioned. I’m definitely looking forward to Tuesday.

I just went to Neil Diamond’s Myspace page to listen to the song he’s going to sing on AI on Wednesday. I like it. Also, he’s got some concert schedule for an old guy!

huckleberryfriend Apr 28th, 2008 at 1:45 pm

David A – Let the Little Boy Sing. Would show a different side of David and also is an interesting play on words.

Jason C – And the Grass Wonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t Pay No Mind. Fits Jasonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s voice perfectly.

Both songs are on youtube.

Yes, yes, yes, huckleberryfriend! That’s what I was just going to say. If JC doesn’t go for it he’s missing a bet.

YouTube – And The Grass Won’t Pay No Mind

“à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Sweet Carolineà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  is the theme song of the Red Sox Nation. Just thought Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢d throw that in there. Heh.”

Woo!

Sweet Caroline and I’m a Believer are actually the only Neil Diamond songs I know…

Oh gawd, Yanni… Yee.

The thing about Neil Diamond, Dolly Parton, ALW theme is that my god, WHAT demographic are they shooting for? For once, I’d like a theme along the line of “sing whatever the heck you want” or “how about songs from this millenium”?

I think my old aunts would go to a Neil Diamond concert. Maybe he is booking Branson. Got to be a lot of “blue” and gray hair in the audience. Also his audience has to be 80% aunties and 20% uncles who were drug along.

I think Jason needs to stay away from any song with the word “grass” in it.

LOL, caro.

Carolina, rofl, yeah I didn’t really think of that. You may be right! Unfortunate, though…it would be a perfect song for him.

Oh, Carolina did you call that one right. LOL!!!!!!

MrRJ
Apr 28th, 2008 at 2:58 pm
I think my old aunts would go to a Neil Diamond concert. Maybe he is booking Branson. Got to be a lot of à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“blueà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  and gray hair in the audience. Also his audience has to be 80% aunties and 20% uncles who were drug along.

You are so, so wrong. He’ll be in Florida in October at the same place Madonna, Cher, Miley Cyrus and others play. Not some little podunk stage in Missouri. Just FYI Section 2, Row FF (thats 32 rows back) is $650. He puts on a fantastic show. You really can’t discount anyone who has sold over 120 million records with over 50 hits.

Although I’m not 20 anymore, I hardly feel that 44 is old enough to put me in the “blue” hair group, but I will admit to having spiked, purple hair at one time, but that’s another story.

I think Tuesday will be a great night as long as the kids back away from the late 70s/80s stuff, and I was not thrilled when I first learned about this theme. (OK, I’ll be honest, my first thought was “I didn’t know Neil Diamond was still alive.”)

I’m really looking forward to seeing what they do with two songs, too, if only because it’s going to force some of them out of their boxes. I want to see Jason and Brooke sing an uptempo song while standing up! I want to see David A. take up more than one square foot of the stage and look like he’s enjoying himself! I want rock star David and sexy ballad David! I want Syesha to go home!

I wonder if they might have each contestant do both their songs in one shot to make it easier to cram it all in to the hour? It would save time on intro videos/judges’ comments/giving out numbers, etc. Didn’t they do that in season 3 on top 5 night? I wonder if some of them could get through two songs in a row without keeling over.

PrplDva –

Applause to you. Just because he isn’t into drugs for been in and out of rehap lately doesn’t mean he isn’t a huge draw. I saw him in Indianapolis about 7 years ago, to a SOLD OUT in the Pacers basketball stadium and he KICK ASS!!!!! He is still one heck of a performer. Don’t count out those singers that have a few more years on them then you, they deserve your respect.

LOL at cheese’s wish to see Jason and Brooke sing uptemp standing up!!!

I don’t think having them sing 2 songs back to back is a good idea. They need time to regroup, esp if the 2nd tune is a very different style.

Please please Jason sing “Girl You Will Be a Woman Soon”, and “Forever in Blue Jeans”. :thumbup_tb:

PRPLDVA…..Just so you know, I am close to your age. I’ll chalk it up to different musical tastes. My aunties really did swoon over him. I like spiked purple hair!

If they are singing two songs, and I think I heard Ryan say they are. They won’t sing back to back. They will each sing one song and then start over singing a different song. So they will have a few minutes to regroup

If it’s songs he’s covered and not just songs he’s composed I would LOVE to hear David C do “I… Who Have Nothing”.
Jordin’s version gave me goosebumps. David’s would be incredible!!!!!!!

I think my old aunts would go to a Neil Diamond concert. Maybe he is booking Branson. Got to be a lot of à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“blueà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  and gray hair in the audience. Also his audience has to be 80% aunties and 20% uncles who were drug along.

LOL. *Hopes my young nephews do not refer to me to as their “old aunt.”

ETA: Cheese, rumor has it that Jason is “working the stage” this week (eek! *flashes back to bizarre French baker arm wave*), so you may get your wish. LOL.

LOL. *Hopes my young nephews do not refer to me to as their à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“old aunt.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ *

I was a youngster in my twenties when I aquired all of my husband’s nieces and nephews. Now, that I’m in my late thirties and they’re all teenagers – they most definitely think I’m old. According to them, I may as well be walking with a cane.

ldp, I couldn’t agree with you more. I love Neil Diamond and while I’m an aunt, I am not blue or gray haired nor over the hill. Much of his music is really, really good. He puts on one of the best shows I’ve ever seen and every one of them have been sold out.

This will be a great show.

I often do wonder what is the audience they are going for with these themes (pulling out Burt Bacharach and Diane Warren for finale in season 5). On the other hand, there have been surprises. Barry Manilow was a really good mentor. One year they had…is it Neil Sedaka? That went better than I would have ever guessed. But I would love a theme along the lines of “songs that reflect what your CD would sound like.” I think they did that in season 5 when Taylor sang “Trouble.” I could be wrong.

rumor has it that Jason is à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“working the stageà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  this week

OMG!! I’m toast.

According to them, I may as well be walking with a cane.

Yeah, I’m in denial. I’m sure they think I’m out to pasture, too.

Ok, peeps, don’t dog Neil if you haven’t seen him. While I too, am NOT a blue hair but am old enough to appreciate a singers talents, let me just say. I have seeen LOTS of performances and feel that Neil is one of the best showmen if not THE best I have seen. He was great and even performed to the poopy seats behind his stage set up! It was great!

But I would love a theme along the lines of à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“songs that reflect what your CD would sound like.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ 

YES!!! Please!!

I can’t say I’m looking forward to this week at all. I could care less about hearing Neil Diamond songs. My grandmother on the other hand, will be all about this week. :S

Ooooh…”Love on the Rocks” would actually be a great song for DC. He could have a “Billie Jean”/ “Hello” moment with it. That’s all I know – really.

I was a big Neil Diamond fan 37 years ago!! Hopefully, no one will sing Forever in Blue Jeans. Neil Diamonds sings it ad nauseum at his concerts – going on and on forever! One of the folkies should sing Brooklyn Roads and/or Shiloh, and David Cook should definitely sing Brother Love’s Traveling Salvation Show. Unfortunately, Neil Diamond’s songs have no vocal range. I don’t think anyone will shine.

Hopefully, no one will sing Forever in Blue Jeans.

:laugh_tb: Hmmm…

DeeOhGee3
Apr 28th, 2008 at 4:45 pm
Ok, peeps, donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t dog Neil if you havenà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t seen him. While I too, am NOT a blue hair but am old enough to appreciate a singers talents, let me just say. I have seeen LOTS of performances and feel that Neil is one of the best showmen if not THE best I have seen. He was great and even performed to the poopy seats behind his stage set up! It was great!

I’ve only ever seen Neil Diamond on A & E. Heeee. He’s okay. I’m just hoping the contestants show their creative sides. That’s what will make the night tolerable for me. The singers & songwriters should shine this night.

Little David could sing Forever in Blue Jeans, that’d be fine with me – I don’t think I could be less impressed than I already am.

SLR – Neil’s songs don’t really have range, but I can’t imagine that DC couldn’t just put some in. I’m hoping for Play Me. And, well, the lack of range might help out another favorite of mine – Jason.

I think it’s going to be an ok night. We’ve been doing so much searching around, we’re bound to recognize something.

My Neil Diamond picks:

1. Syesha- “Heartlight” – This song is great for her voice and I think she could get an R&B vibe out of it. She can turn this into a diva-style song and show some personality. I also like “Open Wide These Prison Doors” for her. The note at the end “set me free” is a good glory note that she’d kill. I do not think she should do “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers Anymore”. That will send her home.

2. Jason Castro- “I’m A Believer”- He sang “Halelujah” from Shrek, so I imagine he’ll ad another song from the Shrek soundtrack in I’m a Believer. It will be good for him to more of an upbeat song and I can’t wait to see how he makes it his own.

3. David Cook- “Cracklin Rosie”- I think he could rock this up and make it a hit. I love this song for him.

4. David A- “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” or “Sweet Caroline”- Either one of these would be great selections for him.

5. Brooke White- “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers Anymore”- I can picture her singing this song while SMILING. “Forever in Blue Jeans” or “Brooklyn Roads” would be better for her than this song. I want her to go home, so that’s why I want her to sing this song. Hopefully it will do the trick.

What do you all think?

I am a fan so I am looking forward to this week. I think that this could be a very good week for everyone. There are some great songs for everyone to sing, of course depending on what they are allowed to sing, and who gets to sing their choices and not someone elses.

That being said I am putting my money on Syesha having a great week. Even though she landed in the bottom again, she must be buoyed by finally getting good feedback from the judges that was not tarnished by something outside her performance. Say what you want about someone with no fans, but I have enjoyed her for the past six week, truly enjoyed her. I guess I am single handedly responsible for keeping her in the competition. I am truly proud.

Syesha started out badly for me. Too many “big” formula songs that she had to sing her rear off just to make them so so. She was also very standoffish and wooden. The last couple of weeks she has loosened up and given some real nice performances. She is somebody to keep an eye on. (btw, keeping an eye on her makes for a happy eye)

Brooke- Song Sung Blue, Mr. Bojangles

David C.- Cherry Cherry, Brother Love’s Traveling Salvation Show

Jason- I Got The Feelin’, Solitary Man, Mr. Bojangles

Syesha- September Morning is the ONLY song I could find for her…

David A.- I’m A Believer, Stones

Mr. Bojangles was written by Jerry Jeff walker in 1968…..not written by ND

They’re never clear about whether it has to be stuff they wrote or whether they could do stuff they performed too?

I love Neil Diamond. And I am 31. I went to see him in concert when I was 28! It was a GREAT concert. My whole family is looking forward to this week. And do youknow how many GUYS I know who love Neil….seriously, I have had a whole slew of male coworkers ranging from 28-40 all “I am watching for Neil this week….”

That being said….some of them are going to look ridiculous.

This is the way Jason should do Play Me. Tears included.

Hopefully, no one will sing Forever in Blue Jeans.

Hmmmà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦

Gwendolyn, do you know something we don’t, hm? SPILL IT! muahaha.

primeminister
I saw the Play Me video you are referring to earlier today. If Jason did it with the same sort of connection as Hallelujah there won’t be any dry eyes in the house.

I cringe at the thought of him “working the stage”… the kid doesn’t have to do that, he “works it” just standing there, IMO.

So is Jason singing “Play Me”? I know he has some leaks in his camp so I’m guessing there are hints pointing to this one? Just trying to wrap my mind around it.

Can’t wait to see what’s involved in “working the stage.” I think Jason should brave the mosh pit and get close enough to the judges to smack Randy in his stupid face with the dreds.

Primeminister – could you put up a link for Sooliamon with the bongos??? I think for this week he could work the drums in or the bongos or still too cheesy as someone told me before??

Thanks

and David C – Holly Holy>>????

I haven’t seen “Play Me” listed as anything more than a wish list song. I haven’t heard any actual song spoilers – although truthfully, I usually get my song spoiler info from here so…. I did read a spoiler somewhere yesterday, (IDF maybe? I’m not sure) that Jason was practicing with bongos this week. I didn’t know the poster so I didn’t bother posting it here. I don’t know if it was reliable or not.

I’m having a good time listening to the old Neil songs that the radio never plays anymore

This one could smolder in the right hands

Oh no, no, no
Baby, something’s wrong
Oh no, no, no
That old time fire’s gone
It’s not so much things you say, love
It’s what you don’t say I am afraid of

(I Got the Feelin (Oh No No))

Though when it comes to smoldering, molten whatevers, only this one will really do..

I’ve been misunderstood for all of my life
But what they’re saying girl it cuts like a knife
“The boy’s no good”
Well I’ve finally found what I’m a looking for
But if they get their chance they’ll end it for sure
Surely would
Baby I’ve done all I could
Now it’s up to you…

(Girl You’ll Be a Woman Soon)

My favorite Monkees song by Neil is NOT I’m a Believer, it’s
“A Little Bit Me A Little Bit You”.. Jason could manage that nicely I think.

And I was sure I wasn’t imagining things, remembering a garage band version of Neil Diamond — oh yes, Deep Purple, Kentucky Woman
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4QAEzw3fj8

Ahh, got it. Thanks jersey. I won’t cross “Play Me” off my DC wishlist just yet. : )

“Play Me” is what I WANT Jason to sing. I have no idea if that’s a spoiler. Sorry for the confusion.

sumidol- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lwF-ZIZXMU4&feature=related

cheese- Let’s fight it out

I often do wonder what is the audience they are going for with these themes (pulling out Burt Bacharach and Diane Warren for finale in season 5). On the other hand, there have been surprises. Barry Manilow was a really good mentor. One year they hadà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦is it Neil Sedaka? That went better than I would have ever guessed. But I would love a theme along the lines of à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“songs that reflect what your CD would sound like.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  I think they did that in season 5 when Taylor sang à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Trouble.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  I could be wrong.

Just an FYI…

Top 4, Season 5 did Elvis songs and it was Elliott who sang Trouble that week, not Taylor.

To my knowledge, there hasn’t ever been a theme about what your CD will sound like. It is a very interesting idea though!

I don’t know if this site is bs or was linked but it analyzes voting patterns and says Cook could be the shocking boot this week or next. It’s an interesting read

http://www.votefair.com/americanidol.html#SEASON7

*FAIL* I’m tired of having to Youtube songs week after week after week. Only weeks so far I didn’t have to go blind watching Youtube videos were the Beatles weeks, thanks to my dad.

Canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t wait to see whatà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s involved in à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“working the stage.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  I think Jason should brave the mosh pit and get close enough to the judges to smack Randy in his stupid face with the dreds.

Right on. I’d pay money to see that.

primeminister
Apr 28th, 2008 at 6:32 pm
à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Play Meà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  is what I WANT Jason to sing. I have no idea if thatà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s a spoiler. Sorry for the confusion.

sumidol- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lwF-ZIZXMU4&feature=related

cheese- Letà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s fight it out

Yeah, this is not a spoiler.

jpfan
Apr 28th, 2008 at 6:40 pm
I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t know if this site is bs or was linked but it analyzes voting patterns and says Cook could be the shocking boot this week or next. Ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s an interesting read

http://www.votefair.com/americanidol.html#SEASON7

Yeah…I saw that. Hmmmm…it is interesting.

Kraz, Taylor sang “Trouble” by Ray LaMontagne, not Elvis. Your right, E sang “Trouble” by Elvis.

Canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t wait to see whatà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s involved in à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“working the stage.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  I think Jason should brave the mosh pit and get close enough to the judges to smack Randy in his stupid face with the dreds.

Cheese – you always make me laugh – thank goodness no one can see me in here at my desk.

THANK YOU AGAIN AND ALWAYS PM

Yeah, this is not a spoiler.

Gwendolyn has spoken. Give me 5 minutes to mourn.

THANK YOU AGAIN AND ALWAYS PM

You’re welcome, sumidol.

That votefair link is way too involved for me to wrap my mind around. People can make a case for anything. I think Cook is as safe. Based on nothing but my gut. LOL.

That votefair link is way too involved for me to wrap my mind around. People can make a case for anything. I think Cook is as safe. Based on nothing but my gut. LOL.

Kind of makes me wonder about the people who write these. What do they do all day? Oh…what am I talking about?? As if I have a life during Idol….

That votefair link is way too involved for me to wrap my mind around. People can make a case for anything. I think Cook is as safe. Based on nothing but my gut. LOL.

Agreed. My gut tells me David Cook will WIN…so there! Forget votefair! LOL.

I need spoilers! Hurry up, Tuesday!

Here is a picture of the top 5 with ND

I must comment that DC looks HOT. It appears that there are some subtle highlights in his hair. Yum

I just posted my picks in my post. I hadn’t heard some of those songs for ages. I also forgot how much I liked some of those songs, especially the early ones. He really rocked out early on.

Here is a picture of the top 5 with ND

I must comment that DC looks HOT. It appears that there are some subtle highlights in his hair. Yum

Thanks!

The appearance of Neil Diamon’s fingers around Jason’s neck is kind of freaky.
Why does Brooke (almost) always stand by the mentor?
I love how DC and JC look like they just woke up.

Nice picks MJ, but I confess to listening to ND…A LOT!!!

I want to see Jason and Brooke sing an uptempo song while standing up! I want to see David A. take up more than one square foot of the stage and look like heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s enjoying himself! I want rock star David and sexy ballad David! I want Syesha to go home!

~cheese

I am SOOOO with you on this one!!

The appearance of Neil Diamonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s fingers around Jasonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s neck is kind of freaky.

Agreed!! Very very creepy!!!

Otherwise, very very nice picture though. They all look beautiful/cute/hot/whatever.

Nice picks, mj. No “Play Me”? lol

I can totally see And the Grass Won’t Pay No Mind done acoustically like this.

Nice photo — thanks Steph. Took forever to load, the first thing I spotted was ykw’s rooster hair, then ND’s skeery eyebrows.

Then it was fright night — UGLY earring alert !

This is the way Jason should do Play Me. Tears included.

oh yessss please. That is hot.

I wish Jason would do it like that….someday…I think he could do it but he hasn’t played the sex card yet so… I don’t think he’s comfortable with it and/or doesn’t have enough experience with screaming fangirlys. Maybe the tour will bring it out. Like it did for Elliott.

If Jason doesn’t do it, I hope Cook does. He could pull it off.

oh but I really really wish MJ could do it He’s really got that smoldering sexiness down.

DAVID COOK should sing I AM I SAID. Perfect fot his voice.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KJ73Dc0pC8M&feature=related
Link to Sooliamon with bongos.

yeah, Cook should do “I am I said”.

I want Jason to do “Solitary Man”.

I don’t know if a shortened version of “Sooliamon” would translate well especially if JC used bongos. hmmm.

DAVID COOK should sing I AM I SAID.

I like this one for Cook.

Hisaki Apr 28th, 2008 at 6:40 pm

*FAIL* Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m tired of having to Youtube songs week after week after week. Only weeks so far I didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t have to go blind watching Youtube videos were the Beatles weeks, thanks to my dad.

Which is EXACTLY why these theme nights suck. A lot of people have to wonder what the heck is going on with the songs, or don a ton of research. Stupid producers.

Me? Bitter? Nah.

Here is a picture of the top 5 with ND

I must comment that DC looks HOT. It appears that there are some subtle highlights in his hair. Yum

Oh, I love you. And yum, indeed. “Hair steadily improving”? Check.

What the heck is Brooke wearing, anyway? I don’t know if it’s just me, but that top screams “granny”.

*goes off to Youtube more songs*

What the heck is Brooke wearing, anyway? I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t know if ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s just me, but that top screams à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“grannyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ .

As does almost everything else she wears. Girl has no fashion sense.

It would be a true shame if voters kept DC out because of this JC green eyes and silly smile vote. Listen to “Music of the Night” and then listen to “Memory”. One is interesting, maybe even pleasent, and one is a masterwork.

JC doesn’t have green eyes. Ahem.

i like Beautiful Noise, Cracklin Rosie

MrRJ, I’m voting for Jason, not because of the “green eyes and silly smile” comments, but because I prefer his sound to DC’s, or any of the other contestants. DC is my second favorite, but my votes were going for Jason before the media’s outrage and they’ll continue to go to him after the media’s outrage.

It would be a true shame if voters kept DC out because of this JC green eyes and silly smile vote. Listen to à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Music of the Nightà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  and then listen to à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Memoryà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ . One is interesting, maybe even pleasent, and one is a masterwork.

Masterwork…great way to describe DC’s brilliance on that studio recording. I know a lot of people said they wouldn’t keep it in their iPod rotation…but it’s one of my favorites. Gorgeous. I don’t think anything will stop DC from being in the top two. I say he’s going to win it. I may have to hide my daughter’s phone (she’s a Jason fan) but if I have anything to say about it, DCFTW!

That is a great photo. DC is HAWT! The hair keeps evolving. I like it. I can hardly wait to see what he comes up with for ND night.

I do notice in that pic that ND needs some teeth whitener. Heh.

and don’t count out “he’s not heavy he’s my brother” for david c.

I may have to hide my daughterà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s phone (sheà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s a Jason fan) but if I have anything to say about it, DCFTW!

LOL, CJ. My mom would probably do the same if she knew I actually voted my ass off for McSmugface. Screw homework. This boy needs my votes.

I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t think anything will stop DC from being in the top two.

Unless America’s 12-year-olds come up with some devious plot to wipe out half of his steadily growing fanbase (and are successful), he is pretty much cemented to be in there.

I think I’m just going to wait until the spoilers come out tomorrow and then look up the songs. Neil Diamond is not exactly something I would listen to…[/tinfoilhat-ness]

*Screw homework. This boy needs my votes.*

Ahhhhh the youth of today!! And this is also why I Love Hisaki. Girl has her priorities straight….

Jason’s eyes are BLUE gawd darn it. LOL.

It would be a true shame if voters kept DC out because of this JC green eyes and silly smile vote.

No it wouldn’t. I love DC and really like JC. They both deserve to be there. (Although it will be a shame if Jason outlasts DC, gets a huge record deal, and DC ends up selling CDs out of the back of his car and peddling Rockin’ Raspberry ice cream for Edy’s, but hopefully that won’t happen.) I hope they both get to make high-budget, well-promoted CDs that reflect who they are.

Jasonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s eyes are BLUE gawd darn it.

I think people can’t see the eyes under The Lashes.

*Screw homework. This boy needs my votes.*

Ahhhhh the youth of today!! And this is also why I Love Hisaki. Girl has her priorities straightà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.

See, well, if my grades just happen to dip, my finger is immediately going to be pointed at our dear Cookie and his hotness. And hair. And dorkiness. And music ability. And whatever else it is about him that is not making me care about my grades right now. Oh well, I could care less…

(Although it will be a shame if Jason outlasts DC, gets a huge record deal, and DC ends up selling CDs out of the back of his car and peddling Rockinà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ Raspberry ice cream for Edyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s, but hopefully that wonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t happen.)

Bax is really hating you right now, cheese. LOL.

LOL, cheese. I may be wrong but I think MrRJ was referring to the fact that the “journalist” called Jason’s eyes green in one of the links this morning. Apparently many are bent out of shape about it!

I read on the scary boards that the Little D fans are going to pay a maid to put Nair in DC’s shampoo bottle . They’re all DAFTW!

(it is still April, right?)

I’ve always liked David Cook and I always like his studio recordings, but like I said last week his recording of MOTN actually made me cry. His voice is that beautiful on it. With the exception of “Innocent” he’s been so consistently good. I don’t know what the hell those AI stylists are doing to him but he’s also getting kind of hot, which is weird because through the semi finals I thought he was a huge mess.

*Screw homework. This boy needs my votes.*

Ahhhhh the youth of today!! And this is also why I Love Hisaki. Girl has her priorities straightà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.

See Hisaki? I told you. Bax is trying to bring you to the dark side! :devil_tb: LOL.

I think Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m just going to wait until the spoilers come out tomorrow and then look up the songs.

I with you on this one. I tried to listen for awhile, but I just can’t anymore. ND is not my style. I do recognize that there are some gems in his songbook, but I’ll wait to appreciate it tomorrow.

I read on the scary boards that the Little D fans are going to pay a maid to put Nair in DCà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s shampoo bottle . Theyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re all DAFTW!

…Nair? Whomever up there is in charge of the Idol fans this year, help us…

And how about they inject some “fun” into their little angel? Wouldn’t hurt now, would it?

See Hisaki? I told you. Bax is trying to bring you to the dark side! LOL.

But I’m not blonde~ I have also been pulled into watching my fair share of R movies (SHUT UP) and I certainly do not wear granny clothes (baggy when my good stuff is gone, but never granny, ew). Besides, I have already been pulled into the dark side — “Eleanor Rigby” and the gray-black outfit and the emo hair and the sparkling eyes did the job in all of about 5 seconds.

Hisaki- Cheese KNOWS I am weak, but she just insists on pushing me totally over the edge. Lord knows she driven me to mainlining prozac in a handy dandy IV drip.

Where’s Sarah??? I need my internet slap of reality.

I read on the scary boards that the Little D fans are going to pay a maid to put Nair in DCà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s shampoo bottle .

That is scary! :blink_tb:

Don’t they think he can win with his talent?!? lol

Obviously they recognize the utter hotness that is DC’s new hair!

I read on the scary boards that the Little D fans are going to pay a maid to put Nair in DCà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s shampoo bottle . Theyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re all DAFTW!

(it is still April, right?)

bwahaha

They’re have a similar plan for Jason. It’s very hush hush. Code word is Delilah. Still trying to figure it out…

ETA: Oh, I know! He’s going to sing “Hey There Delilah” next week. That must be it!!!!!1111!!!

Are you guys serious?

LOL and a Hallelujah PJ! !!!!111!!1!!!

steph, I sure hope DC has a Million Dollar Lloyds of London policy on those 15 hairs!

Are you guys serious?

Answers: “!!!!!1111!!!” and “!!!!111!!1!!!”

Now THAT was funny, caro :lol_tb:

the rumor is circulating that it’s a Neil Diamond/iTunes Top 100 theme. Perhaps Jason is singing ‘Hey, THere Delilah’ as his iT100 selection.

Back to Neil:
DC – Girl, You’ll Be a Woman Soon (hawt!)
D’Arch – Be
Brooke – I’m a Believer
Castro – Song Sung Blue
Syesha – Hello Again

Thanks Jersey…I knew I saw it somewhere

Whereà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s Sarah??? I need my internet slap of reality.

You rang? I had to have “family time” tonight because it’s the bro’s birthday. But all is well because I got to hold, play with, and dance with the absolutely adorable neice.

I am not familiar with much of Neil Diamond’s work except the really recognizable songs like “Sweet Caroline”. Hopefully, I’ll be pleasantly surprised tomorrow night. Crossing every available appendage that Cocky McSmugface whips out the Les Paul and rocks our faces off.

ETA: Emailing you now, Bax. Short version of the email – you gotta calm down, hun.

OK-confession time- I still have Neil Diamond’s Tap Root Manuscript on 8-track!
(Young-uns, click here for a history lesson)

When I was a kid, my brother and I thought it was funny to play the beginning of I am the Lion over the boat’s hailer speaker early Saturday morning and wake up the whole marina. Such a fond memory…..lol

I would love to hear DC do “I Thank the Lord for the Nightime”, “Kentucky Woman” or “Play Me”

“Porcupine Pie” or “Gitchy Goomy” for Jason

“Be” from JLS or “Chelsea Morning” for Brooke

Hmmmmm…Nair in his shampoo….Guess my theory of Archie’s fan base is correct….tweens!!!

Holly- I could get on board with that “spoiler list”, but I’ll just wait till tomorrow. Lord knows there are more lists floating in cyberspace that will surface by morning.

Sarah…why does Cheese hate me???? sniff sniff

OK-confession time- I still have Neil Diamondà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s Tap Root Manuscript on 8-track!
(Young-uns, click here for a history lesson)

Wow, I’m young. I don’t even think my dad has any of those…

Sarahà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦why does Cheese hate me???? sniff sniff

She’s just (optimistically) pessimistic (I couldn’t resist…lol). But not to your benefit, apparently. Or mine too, for that matter.

@Holly: Rumored? I could get on board with that, too, but I’ll just wait like bax. Neil Diamond and iTunes Top 100 in one night is a strange mash-up of themes, by the way. JMO.

and.. (forgot this in my last post)

DA and Seyesha should both sing “African Suite”

David C…. do Crunchy Granola Suite and rock out.

Since it’s long, w/instrumental parts between, cut and paste and knock our socks off! You should see/hear the young ND do this.

On Youtube take a look at someone’s post of Lordy and the picture of ND. Im tellin’ ya this guy was wild in concert and hot. OK he’s old now. Every good lookin’ young guy you see now will someday get old hee hee…what’s hot now will someday be not. We all get a little less hot as we age, but this guy “is” a legend. Much respect due.
Having said that, I agree that not every week should be old music even tho I’m a geezerette.

So where is this Jason on the bongos rumor coming from? THAT would be something; he is originally a drummer, so he could impress. Heck, Randy has professed to love drummers. Talk about originality; not sure how he would work it into the performance, but it would definitely get people talking (and voting, if successful).

huckleberryfriend Apr 28th, 2008 at 1:45 pm

Jason C – And the Grass Wonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t Pay No Mind. Fits Jasonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s voice perfectly.

When I was a teenybopper, I lurved Mark Lindsay’s version of “And the Grass Won’t Pay No Mind” from the “Silverbird” LP. Y’all remember Mark from Paul Revere and the Raiders, right? Yup, I got me an eclectic music collection arranged in alphabetical order by artist/artist’s last name (I’m a librarian, after all). Mark Lindsay shares a shelf with John Legend, the Lemonheads, John Lennon, Level 42, Los Lobos, Lene Lovich, the Lovin’ Spoonful, and Nick Lowe.

I am one of Jason’s fans who thinks he can sing almost anything, so it’s probably most important for him to like his selections and believe in them. That said, breaking out the drums for “Red, Red Wine” and the geetar for “Solitary Man” or “Play Me” would make me very happy.

I know some lovely, happily married women of a certain age who wouldn’t miss a Neil Diamond concert and still consider him their “boyfriend”(shades of Claymania!). I’m sure nobody around here has any celebrity “boyfriends” they never met. Ahem. Anyway, they’ll bump up AI’s ratings tomorrow night, but hopefully they will be sufficiently discouraged when they pick up the phone for ArchuD2 and the line is busy.

Terrie
My son is a producer for cbs radio, former dj…in Portland OR and Mark Lindsday has a cool club there.

oops typo..of course thats Mark Lindsay.(paul revere & the raiders). Everyone thought “he” was the hot one in the group. sorry gettin’ off subject.

Our friend, faith, shared the following Neil Diamond quote with us:

My voice is unadorned. I don’t try for perfection. I try to be honest and truthful and soulful with the voice I have. If I make mistakes in notes, or there are cracks in notes, I don’t fix them. That’s the way it is.

I think he’ll get Jason.

DC/JC Top 2 – I can dream

the rumor is circulating that ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s a Neil Diamond/iTunes Top 100 theme.

Please, I hope this is true. 10 ND songs might do me in.

The Neil Diamond week Idolatry video is up:
http://popwatch.ew.com/popwatch/2008/04/idol-neil-diamo.html

Ohmygosh they’re so right about Syesha singing Red Red Wine. She would do amazing with it, and maybe save herself and get Brooke kicked off instead. Hmm…

I post my ND list… I go to work…I return 211 posts later. Yep, it was a good day. Thanks, all.

Red Red Wine would be good for Syesha if done in a hip hop style. Problem is, she goes for the obvious, and that is not an obvious choice for her. I just don’t think she’s creative enough to come up with something like that.

With that said, I am starting to think Jason is going to do it, esp if it is true that he has been working on the bongos this week. I actually hope this rumor is true.

With that said, I am starting to think Jason is going to do it, esp if it is true that he has been working on the bongos this week. I actually hope this rumor is true

Where did the rumor come from?

“Chelsea Morning” for Brooke

Could Brooke get away with doing a Joni Mitchell song on Neil Diamond night?

Joni probably wouldn’t release the song.

Thanks for the vid Cheese…
Joydrop–Syishia sings “Red Red Wine”could be very big night for her.

CJ: hide that kid’s cell phone. hide it, hide it.

Trina: listen to the studio recording of “Innocent” — it’s really good. Not a song you can excerpt easily to fit into a two-minute idol slot. The whole thing makes much more sense when you hear it in full.

As for song choices….yeesh. As others have suggested, anything ANYTHING but “You Don’t Send Me Flowers” and that goopy brand of Neil Diamond. I can’t help it, I’ve always adored “I’m a Believer,” one of the great teenybopper ecstasies. I think and maybe even hope nobody will touch it, especially DC who likes to walk on the wilder side (except during AWL week). “Solitary Man” and “Sweet Caroline,” also “You Got to Me,” groovy. Here’s some advice from USA today, including someone who doesn’t get DC at all — he considers him Mr. Anguish and Pain — where was he when David sang a delightful rendition of “Happy Together”?

http://www.usatoday.com/life/television/news/2008-04-28-coaches_N.htm

I read the bongo rumor on another board – but I just mentioned it in passing. I didn’t post it originally because I didn’t know the original poster and I didn’t know how reliable they are. Also, I can’t remember which board I read it on. It may have been Survivor Sucks, in which case, you can really take it with a grain of salt. It was either there or IDF since those are the only other two boards I even glance at. So really, BIG grain of salt on the rumor of the bongos!!!

I just really want them all to do Will Ferrell’s version. So. Badly.

David Cook “Girl, You’ll Be A Woman Soon” might sent me through puberty a second time. I also think Jason Castro could do a really kickass version of it.

I also think either David Cook or Brooke White could kill with “Hello Again”. They both have the vulnerability to really milk that one. “Play Me”, too.

“Song Sung Blue” was pretty much written for Castro, wasn’t it?

Maybe “Cherry, Cherry” or “You Got To Me” for David Archuleta? Be nice to see him bring some of the “Shop Around” vibe back. “I’m A Believer” might work, too, although Castro or Cook would also be fun on that.

And Syesha… oh, man. I actually think she could put a cool R&B funk on “Cracklin’ Rosie”, but she could balance plates on her head while curing cancer and I’m not sure it would matter at this point.

Hey, David Cook fans!

I thought I had seen about everything that was out there of David’s. But I was rummaging through old posts at the VTFW forum – this video was posted by someone way back in January. It’s from an Oklahoma travel website, shows a performance of David’s as a promotion for a solo show he did:

http://oklatravel.net/#/Video/16274

So cool!

Rita

ooh ty rita i love it
wish i knew how to rip these vids lol

Go DA

Oh that hair, do something david. anything. shave it. spike it like Dave

Go DA

I was listening to UB40′s “Red Red Wine”, and I was totally into the idea of Jason singing that one. Alas, it’s not to be….. Watch Cookie pick that one up. His song choices shake me to the core because they are so NOT obvious. Maybe I can use some telepathy to communicate with him…. “Must bring Les Paul, must bring Les Paul….”

Theyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re have a similar plan for Jason. Ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s very hush hush. Code word is Delilah. Still trying to figure it outà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦

ETA: Oh, I know! Heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s going to sing à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Hey There Delilahà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  next week. That must be it!!!!!1111!!!

Okay I don’t know how to quote a previous comment but …

My guess would be buh-bye dreads (Delilah as in Sampson and…)

Thanks for the article colette!

I love this part:

“Nobody else but David C. can do Solitary Man, Cherry Cherry or Kentucky Woman. He’s a man among boys. And all he’s got to do is let his performance reflect that. “

Innocent is a great song. The Idol live feed started in the middle of the song. Simon was all into the jacket……. Thye full length version is really nice

“Innocent” is actually one of my favorites…along with “BJ” and “ABMB”.

Joan left her first hint at popwatch:

A teeny hint for you spoiler lovers:

Jason always dons durable twill weave when taking a stroll at dawn, when the foliage is dismounting.

I’m going to start the spoiler thread…

@colette – Don’t worry, she won’t be able to find it any Tuesday evening for as long as JC is still in the running. MWAHAHAHAHA! Actually, I think I’ll use her cell and mine to vote for DC. I may have to hide in the car to vote, but that’s a small price to pay. :lol_tb: