Season 7 Top 10 Guys – Performance

By On 02/26/2008 · 238 Comments · In Uncategorized

Performance Videos! with very special thanks to rockers94…awesome ripping…

Tonight, the guys take on the 70′s with mixed results. A few of the contestants improved on their performance from last week, perhaps buying them another week (Chikezie, Luke Menard). Others disappointed (Michael Johns). Others brought it (David Cook, David Hernandez). There were also those who could have taken a giant dump on the stage and it would not have mattered (OK, only one–David Archuleta who apparently has already been crowned winner. Should I bother watching the rest of this shiz?)

Tonight’s video packages feature a theme, “What People Would Be Surprised to Know About Me” Or not.

Randy tells the contestants, “Dude (as in the royal DUDE) make sure you’re in it to win it!” Paula seems coherent tonight. Unfortunately. And Simon is as cranky as ever.

Michael Johns – “Go Your Own Way” by Fleetwood Mac – Mid tempo songs are always a gamble on Idol, where the glory note reigns supreme. If a contestant chooses a mid-tempo song, the vocal needs to be impeccable, and unique. Unfortunately, Micheal chooses a song that not only doesn’t show off his voice, but reveals his vocal limitations. Those high notes are rough, man. Lucky for Michael, he’s got so much momentum at this point, his fan base will sustain him to the next round. Randy says, “Nice way to start off…I was ready for you to let go, you didn’t quite go there…I liked it, you’re a good singer.” Paula said, “You’re consistent, got the whole crowd working, you’re charismatic….I think you’re already there.” Simon tells it like it is, “It was by far your weakest performance of the entire competition. It’s what I call, coasting along, a song like that. And it was a very weak choice of song for you.” Michael becomes a little flustered by Simon’s bad critique and nearly mows down Ryan when he misses his cue to leave the stage. I like Micheal’s voice, I hope he steps it up and picks a better song next week. Fun fact: Micheal is a jock. He plays tennis!

I want a Mac book Air. That is all.

Jason Castro – “I Just Wanna Be Your Everything” by Andy Gibb – I think the song choice is clever. It starts off well, with Jason on guitar, but unfortunately, bandzilla joins in and completely overwhelms his vocals. This would have been an awesome acoustic performance. Nevertheless, I’m still firmly on the Jason bandwagon. Of course, the judges critique him for playing the guitar, as if it’s a crutch. Randy says, “Singing with the guitar, it’s cool as an act. The vocals just weren’t that great.” Paula says, “I don’t think it was as bad as you heard it, Randy. I think you made a clever choice with the song…I liked your musical interpretation…next week I would like to see you without the guitar and be more vulnerable as an artist.” Simon says, “I thought the song was horrible, because it was too schmaltzy, it didn’t suit your voice, it didn’t go together this week. You looked very uncomfortable with that song.” Simon then goes on about “all the song choices”–and you know, the truth is, the contestants have a very small pool to choose from–STFU Simon. He adds, “You didn’t do yourself any favors tonight.” Fun Fact: Jason has no facts. He hates doing interviews. Is his charming lack of affect a put on? I don’t think so.

Luke Menard – “Killer Queen” by Queen – Luke has an unusual falsetto voice, and I think he picked a great song for his vocals. It’s too bad contestants don’t get points for singing a difficult song. Queen is difficult, and I think Luke handled the challenge very well. Luke is unpimped, but I think his decent performance and good looks could buy him another week. Randy says, “You chose a very tough, tough song. I like you better this week than last week…this seems to be a little more your wheelhouse. I thought it was pretty good.” Paula says, “I’m so glad this week was a great week for you…I think you picked the perfect song…” Simon says, “I think it was a mistake. You’re always going to be judged by the original. The singer of that song had originality and charisma. You didn’t…you suffered by comparison.” Fun Fact: Luke was part of an a’cappella group, Chapter 6. But, we knew that.

Ryan chats with Robbie. A discussion ensues about Robbie’s “authenticity”, or lack thereof. Ryan mentions Simon’s remarks from last week. Robbie rolls his eyes and tells Simon,”Get used to it!” He’s here’s he’s….whatever.

Robbie Carrico – “Hot Blooded” by Foreigner – This is perfect. A fake rock singer singing fake 70′s rock! Ok, sorry, but in my book, Foreigner is just one of the many reasons why 70′s mainstream rock is so effing lame. Not a great choice for Robbie to prove his rock cred. And, still, with the cheesy hand gestures. The song is about being super-horny, but his vocal lacks the urgency to be convincing. I’d like him better if he actually embraced the cheese. Randy says, “I don’t know if the rock thing is really, really your thing. It doesn’t have enough ahhhh! to be a rock voice.” Paula says, “I think that you played it a little safe this week.” Robbie seems annoyed by the criticisms. Simon says, “You don’t have to get so defensive about it, it’s only an opinion. Actually, I thought the vocal was OK tonight.” Fun Fact: Robbie used to bang Britney Spears likes drag racing.

Danny Noriega – “Superstar” by Leon Russell – I can hear a really good voice underneath all the posturing, I really can. Danny needs to just sing, and forget everything else. Tonight, he tones down the facial ticks and the dramatics, but he’s now a little tentative. He needs to find a way to let his vocals, and the meaning of the song, shine through. He’s not quite there yet. Again, bandzilla drowns out the vocals. Could somebody please turn down the band? Randy says, “I felt like you were thinking while you were singing…let it go.” Paula says, “You’ve got amazing vocal skill…don’t over think it…just perform.” Simon, “This was better, not a fantastic vocal…but you stand out in the crowd, you’re interesting…you look great on camera.” Danny admits that Simon was right about last week’s performance, and he kinda apologizes for giving him the snaps. Heh. I agree with Simon. Danny’s likability is going to advance him to next week, and maybe the Top 12. Fun fact: Danny used to be in a crappy punk rock band when he was a freshman in high school.

David Hernandez – “Papa was a Rolling Stone” by the Undisputed Truth – David ditches the nerves this week. He gets loose, starting from the top of the stairs, working the camera as he makes his way down to the stage. He’s picked a showy song that allows him to bust out some fancy vocal chops, including a great big glory note at the end. Paula gives him a standing ovation. So far, it’s the best vocal of the night. Randy says, “Now this is the David Hernandez we fell in love with. That was hot right there.” Paula says, “Your voice is so pure, it pierces right to the heart…your personality came out this week…perfect.” Simon adds, “This may surprise you…this was the best vocal of the night so far…I like the fact that when you are given some criticism, you don’t sulk, you take it as a challenge.” David looks like he’s going to pass out, he’s so happy. David is definitely still in the game. Fun Fact: David did gymnastics when he was a little kid. He won medals, and stuff.

Jason Yeager – “Long Train Running” by the Doobie Brothers – This performance is so much better than last week. Yeah, the dancing is a little corny, but there is no denying Jason can sing. He brought a credible soulful vibe to his performance this week, a few little pitchy things here and there, but a solid performance. However, the judges rip him to shreds. Randy says, “…It’s not a singer’s kind of song…pitchy and karaoke, I didn’t get it.” Paula, says, “It was fun to see this side of you…it’s a song that doesn’t have that many notes in it…be careful to pick singer songs.” Simon says, “Last week was boring, this week it was just awkward and ordinary…and that horrific ending, I don’t know what you were doing there…it was like you were drunk at a party…I’m quite disappointed.” Poor Jason looks so confused about what he should do next. He’s got a big ole’ target on his back–there might not be a next time. Fun Fact: Jason is self-taught on the guitar and piano.

Chikezie – “I Believe to My Soul” by Donny Hathaway – Chikezie steps it up from last week. Not only does he ditch the fugly suit, but he steps out of the ballad box to prove he can bring grit and soul to an uptempo number. Chikezie introduces Donny Hathaway’s daughter from the background vocal group. Season 5 fans know all about Donny’s daughter–Elliott Yamin introduced her back then. Randy says, “Chikezie is back America…this is the guy we fell in love with.” Paula says, “Very clever to pick a song and a story…brilliant, it was fun.” Simon, “You look better, you sounded better, clever choice of song, a million times better than last week.” Chikezie confesses, “I let you get to me, that’s what messed me up.” and then, “I’d wear that suit [from last week] again, but not on TV, you can’t do that, only you would do that.” Simon says, “Just when I’ve begun to like you again, you’ve become obnoxious.” The banter is cheeky. All is forgiven. Fun Fact: Chikezie, and his name are both Nigerian. The true pronunciation of his name is beautiful.

David Cook – “All Right Now” by Free – David accompanies himself on electric guitar tonight. David knows just how to tweak his raspy rock vocals to get the most out of a song. Tonight, he plays to the crowd rather than the camera, and it works. Visually, it looks like concert footage. I like the song arrangement–at one point, David stops playing, grabs the mic off the stand, sings part of the chorus, and then it’s back to the guitar. Randy says, “… You got the Marshal, the Les Paul, the whole 9 yards…you are the real rocker of the boys this year.” Paula says, “The band is on fire tonight…David you are the real deal…very smart very fun.” Simon, “It was solid, it was sort of believable. I don’t think the film helped you…from tennis, to drag racing to crosswords. It’s boring. I don’t think you have a lot of charisma….” David interrupts Simon at this point to say, “Fortunately, I don’t have to win you over with my charisma, I’ve got to win these people over.” Simon’s eyes bug out. He’s visibly pissed. Note to David, no matter how well you sing, you undermine yourself when you behave like a whiny douche bag. Just shut up and take the criticism. The audience is on your side. Fun fact: David is a self-confessed “Huge word-nerd”. He loves crossword puzzles and word searches. Obviously Simon thinks it’s boring, but Paula sez women like smart men.

David Archuleta – “Imagine” by John Lennon – YAY communism! YAY atheism! Does David really understand what this song is about? I don’t think so. He only sings the non-controversial verse that’s all about peace, love and understanding, and he’s able to imbue some real feeling into the song. Don’t get me wrong, I know David can sing. But the judges hyperbole and outrageous pimping of David is a big turn-off. Randy starts the whole OMG!!! He’s Only 17!!! crap again this week, and I despair when I realize Randy will be pulling that one out again, week after week. He really should just play tape recordings of his Jordin Sparks critiques from last year and be done with it. Randy says, “…one of the best vocals I’ve ever heard on this show. That was brilliant!” Paula is crying, “One of the most beautiful performances I’ve ever heard…you are destined for super stardom.” Simon says, “You are the one to beat…there are 19 very miserable contestants tonight.” UGH. Enough already. Fun Fact: David won Star Search when he was 13. David met the Season 1 finalists when he was 11 years old. He sang for them, and impressed Kelly Clarkson. In the grainy video footage, David gets big kudos from Kelly. I imagine this is supposed to be significant–Kelly, the current AI, at the time, meeting the future AI…

Oh, how perfect that footage will work in the finale night winners montage! Sigh.

 
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  • talullah

    Uh, did anybody else think that Michael’s high notes were flat, or was that just me? I was fully expecting Randy to pronounce MJ “pitchy” (funny how they never say whether sharp/flat or what notes!)

    I also think he sounded strained in his upper register, also when he sang BoRap in Hollywood week he was straining on high notes as well. Probably will catch lots of flack for bashing the aussie, but that’s what I heard.

  • Chicago-sally

    I totally agree w/ Randy & Simon about Jason. And he doesn’t seem “star” material. somebody who doesn’t like interviews and comes off as “shy” may not be “star” material. I don’t think he’s going to make it to the top 6 unless he gets rid of the guitar.

    Luke was good, except like Simon said, he’s being compared to the original. It showed his vocal acrobats.

    What’s with the boys choosing these songs? Isn’t there a bigger catalog to choose from?

  • maracaibo

    I don’t know what happened with Michel tonight. Hmmmmm.

    I loved his song choice by the way, great song, but his vocals were off on the high notes.
    He usually sounds so good when he is singing, he nails all the notes.
    I always thought he has the best vocals out of all the guys except of course, David A.

    JMHO, but he didn’t seem him tonight, he was just like Simon said, cruising with the song. Seems he did not put much effort on it.

    I think he will still be here next week, but it will be his last chance to make an impression.
    Come on Michael! Step it up. At least we got to see him playing tennis. Heh.

    I did not like Jason Castro’s performance either. Too boring.

  • Lisa

    3 down, not feeling it so far.

    I get the feeling Luke has this tight hold on his voice after being in that group for so long. It’s almost like he is afraid to let go and really belt it out. I thought it was just the mic last week, but after tonight, I think he is the one keeping his voice *soft*.

  • Chicago-sally

    So far these 3 haven’t shown much confidence.

  • weelassie

    I don’t get the whole wallet chain thing??? Someone please enlighten me:)
    I really thought Michael was off tonight. I couldn’t believe none of the three told him how off it was but they didn’t.

    Jason C has such a cute face under all that hair.

  • Chuckles

    In previous years, contestants had hundreds of songs to choose from, and could pick a song as long as it fit the genre (according to producers) and was on the Billboard top 100 chart for that era. If they couldn’t get the song cleared in time for the telecast, you had a second ‘safe’ song you could keep in reserve.
    This means you could have a lot of creative leeway.

    This year’s contestants have a ‘cleared’ list of about fifty (50) songs to choose from. HOWEVER, the producers have the ability to pick who sings which songs, as they always have. Each contestant picks three songs. The producers then pick who gets to have which song. If you have no songs of the three that you can sing, they pick one for you.

    Sound unfair? Ask Taylor from last year. They did this to him not once, but twice.
    This has happened in previous years as well.

    So why are there so many fewer songs? Why the forced songs?

    Well… conspiracy theorists might say they want to steer the vote away from less marketable folks. Or, they might be so cheap that they don’t want to pay big $$$ for clearance of songs that they don’t already have clearance for from previous years’ themed weeks. I believe both are true. BUT… and this is a consideration as well… This year’s folks get their performmances posted on iTunes for sale. This means the clearances are much more expensive and harder to get, since they are multi-deliverables (TV and audio).

  • Chuckles

    Oh! And the wallet chains are called ‘pulling a Daughtry’ for ‘rock cred’.

  • Chicago-sally

    thanks Chuckles for explaining that. The cost of paying for a song makes a lot of sense.

  • Luv2Laugh

    I thought Jason was adorable tonight. He sang one of my favorite songs while I was growing up. I had Andy Gibb posters all over my walls. lol I thought Luke was 100% better tonight. Robbie didnt sing that song with enough UMPHH like Randy said. Have to wait and see how the rest do…….

  • Chicago-sally

    Is Danny a little off-pitch; is it me and my ears not hearing right? And I’m sorry, he’s a little too effeminate looking singing that song. I can’t believe he’s singing to a “girl”.

    The judges are right about Danny.

    Sorry, but nobody’s rising above the waves tonight. I don’t like the songs….
    and what’s sad is last season people criticized the boys…Chris S and Chris R and they’re sounding much better than these guys.
    These guys are karaoke.

  • Luv2Laugh

    Totally agree about Danny. Not believable at all.

  • Lisa

    I didn’t get Danny either. Am liking David’s song.

    I hope one of the girl’s sings Roberta Flack’s Killing Me Softly tomorrow night since it won the grammy in 1974.

  • Nostradamas

    Sucktastic indeed….not one worth moving on…not one…

  • Nika

    I agree that Michael was off tonight, but I actually like the song choice. It wasn’t obvious, and while there were definite vocal problems, it seemed to suit him well in terms of performance style. Not a complete miss, I don’t think.

  • Chicago-sally

    David was much better than the other four….but there’s a little scandal brewing about his sexuality….and I wonder if it hits the public will he go into the top 10? Women like “male-males” and so far the only gay guy to make it to the top five has been Clay (allegedly gay). Sorry, but that’s the truth. Women vote on Idol…men don’t pick up the phone and vote.

  • Luv2Laugh

    Love, Love, Loved David H.!!!!!!!! Wow! That boy can sing. That was by far, the BEST vocal. Way to Go David ! I dont care about his sexual orientation. He’s got my vote. (by the way, I love Clay! :)

  • Chicago-sally

    Nika, the problem I’m having is the guys don’t seem to exude confidence…they seem to be hanging back…being safe…and I don’t know where Robbie belongs.

    And I’m a little upset with the judges because if this was the best male contestants they could find, then bring back the guys from S6.

  • Lisa

    This will definitely age me, but oh well, lol. If George Michaels would have been on AI (say around when he sang Careless Whisper) I would have voted my fingers off for him. Yes my hubby kept saying he was gay, but it did not matter to me the boy could sing and he was HOT. George just has this amazing voice. I think it boils down to how good they are, the type of music they sing, what they can bring to a song, etc. At least for me it is.

  • KrazeeK120

    It seems as though their song choices are quite restricted. The thing I always liked about the Top 24 is that the contestants could pick from a real variety of songs and show who they were. I really hate this Top 24 theme thing. It’s making the contestants seem worse than they are (I think).

  • Chicago-sally

    I thought Jason was pretty good. I’m in the minority? Well Lisa, let’s be fair…George Michael didn’t come out until about five years ago or so and before that women were throwing their panties at him because they thought he was “straight”…LOL….sorry but even Elton didn’t come out until he was in his 40s….before that he kept it quiet….and no public knew….a lot of these guys keep their preference quiet bec. the majority of their audience is women…and women want to throw their panties at the male singers. I went to see Tom Jones a couple of years ago and that man still has IT…and women were throwing their underwear at him…now imaging if Tom wasn’t married, didn’t have a kid and was “gay.” I think he’d be toast.

    I had the biggest crush on Johnny Mathis, I still like him, but I’m not going to be throwing my underwear at him :)

  • maracaibo

    And Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m a little upset with the judges because if this was the best male contestants they could find, then bring back the guys from S6

    I know… Blake is performing next week when they choose the Top 12.

    Can’t wait to see him! I am glad they invited him back. He will perform his new single “How Many Words”.

  • KrazeeK120

    I LOVE HOW MANY WORDS!!!! maracaibo, you made my day! I didn’t know Blake would be performing until you said something!

  • Trina

    David Hernandez was fantastic tonight. Wow that finish was amazing.

  • KrazeeK120

    Oh dear. I’m a huge Elliott fan and I’m probably biased, but I think that Elliott’s performance was much better.

  • judy

    Just tuning in here in Denver. Mr. Australia kind of sucked tonight – had some really flat notes.

  • Chicago-sally

    OH FINALLY!!!! SOMEBODY BRUNG IT !!! CHIKEZIE!!!

  • Lisa

    I loved Chikezie and am loving David Cook!!!

  • KrazeeK120

    The Davids are good tonight!

  • Nika

    Yeah, I’m giving Chikezie Most Improved for the evening. I mean, it would have been hard for him to do much worse, I think, but he stepped it up a LOT.

  • Chicago-sally

    David is rocking.

  • judy

    Jason Castro has such a sweet smile. Jason, please cut your hair. Good performance, not a “WOW” performance though.

  • KrazeeK120

    These contestants have got mouths on them!!

  • KrazeeK120

    Tongue bath by the judges, after the break.

  • Chicago-sally

    Uh-oh here comes David A., teen IDOL.

  • barefootgirl

    Oh dear. Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m a huge Elliott fan and Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m probably biased, but I think that Elliottà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s performance was much better.

    Elliott sang it way better. And the judges?? Praising Chickie for choosing a song they threw Elliott under the bus for choosing? I’m not surprised. Just pissed.

    And Chickie even copied E’s intro to Donnie’s daughter. Bleh.

  • Lisa

    The girls screaming for David A before the break.

    Are they:

    1. AI paid teens?

    2. Family & Friends?

    3. Told David was giving out Hannah Montana tickets.

    I just do not get the David love. Cute kid, I give him props since he can really sing but he is just not my cup of tea.

  • Chicago-sally

    Barefoot: Now now now….he’s in it to win….All the idols copy each other from season to season. Go back and look at the tape. Do you remember when Kat fell to her knees like Fantasia did?

  • barefootgirl

    So far I liked Jason C, David H and Danny. Luke does nothing for me and Jason Y, even less.

  • KrazeeK120

    barefoot girl, I actually just went to You Tube and watched Elliott’s performance of that song along with the judges comments. That was top 3 week…they did throw him under the bus!!

    And on another note, I seem to remember Blake being thrown under the bus for singing “Imagine” and he sang it pretty straightforward. David can sing, but I don’t like how it’s changed from the original. This song shouldn’t be changed, IMO. I suppose the judges will love it, though. I really can’t figure them out.

  • Chuckles

    By the way – David Hernandez is gay. Just so you know. Danny is actually considered to be a bit ‘emo’ by his fans.

    As for his chances?

    Let’s put it this way: how did Sanjaya do?

    He’s a shoo-in for top 12.

  • Chicago-sally

    David A. was made for TV. He’s been in front of the camera more than the others….he’s fodder for the Disney Channel….how much do you bet that Disney agents are calling his folks right now?

  • dvls

    Whoa David, better stay away from Paula, she’s dangerous!!

  • Nostradamas

    OK….that settles it….after Amanda is voted off….I’m outta’ here….it’s now become just the Mickey Mouse Club….

  • Chicago-sally

    Chuckles: Which one?

    Watch the downloads for the week and you’ll see who’s getting the most popular vote.

  • KrazeeK120

    I like David A. I do. He seems like a very sweet young man and he does have a beautiful voice. But really, come on. He isn’t the one to beat, nor was he the best tonight…or maybe that’s just my opinion.

    Michael went from hero to zero in a matter of a week.

  • barefootgirl

    Barefoot: Now now nowà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s in it to winà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.All the idols copy each other from season to season. Go back and look at the tape. Do you remember when Kat fell to her knees like Fantasia did?

    Well I never really watched the show till S5. Why copy another idol? It’s so obvious and risks turning off their fans. I don’t get it. But yeah, I do remember Kat on the floor. A couple of times. I did see vid of Fantasia’s Summertime. Kat didn’t quite have the same effect. haha.

  • Chicago-sally

    But the point is they copy each other. These contestants study AI like a book and see what works. Go back over the years, I’ve been watching since S1, and they sing the same songs …. They wear the same hair styles — yes!!! Sanjaya copied the “hawk” from Nadia who wore it first.

    There are videos and classes how to get on AI….trust me :)

    So don’t blame them if they’re in it to win….

  • Chicago-sally

    Does anybody think David A. will do a Mario Vasquez?

  • maracaibo

    David Archuleta was great, amazing.
    But I hate the fact they already proclaim him the winner. Why they don’t just cut the show to the finale and give him the crown already?
    Just saying.

    I am 100% he will win in a very easy victory. Those teenage girls in the audience were really loving him.

  • dukesterathlete

    “Does anybody think David A. will do a Mario Vasquez?”

    NO- because i think David genually loves the show and what it is all about and he said he has been waiting 5 years to do this..i give it a

  • http://www.xanga.com/werwanderflugen Preston

    Great show tonight!

    David A, David H, and Chikeze the best of the night. All were FANTASTIC.

    Followed by David C and Jason C.

    Throw in Michael J and Danny N.

    In danger? Jason Y for sure. Robbie and Luke should also be worried.

    *
    *

    As for the David A winner comments, I think I remember Simon telling Lakisha last year that “the 23 other contestants should book their plane tickets home.”

    David A will certainly go far, but it ain’t over till it’s over!

  • jpfan

    This will be the David A. show from now on. I hope some of the girls rise to the occassion because none of the guys come close. Chikese and David H. were fun but aren’t in his league. The rest were meh.

  • Chicago-sally

    Maracaibo: They always do that, proclaim a winner. Esp. Simon…he’s good for that….soon we’ll see him giving interviews about who he thinks will win…don’t mean a thing at this point. Because several things could happen, as they have in the past:

    1) scandal! There could be idol who has a record, DUI, porn star, you name it. Something will come out….already David H has pics on the internet stripping at a gay club

    2) Someone could be approached by an agent or record company with a contract and drop out — see Mario Vasquez

    3) Jennifer Hudson was a wild card after someone was booted off

    4) The “Best” could totally forget the lyrics — see Brandon from last season.

  • Chicago-sally

    I totally agree with Preston. Good comment!

  • ealbino

    I loved how David A changed up the song tonite..He almost made me cry and I’m 53….so teens..and old woman will vote for my fav tonite hopefully..LOL.. 2nd favorite of the nite was David H followed by Jason Castro. I would have said David Cook but he seemed a little arrogant there with his back talk and that turned me off.

  • http://www.myspace.com/swood1104 Sarah

    Um, why exactly does it matter that David H is gay? I couldn’t care less if he was gay, straight, bi, or asexual. That said, I loved him tonight. GREAT song choice, great performance.

    I was not impressed by Chickeeeeeeeeeeeze at all.

    David Archuleta had absolutely no clue how to interpret that song.

    Hot Aussie was not great. But I can excuse one lackluster week because I do lurve his voice and previous performances. Just bring it next week!

    I actually really liked Danny, David C, and Jason C. Luke was miles better than last week.

    Jason Y does nothing for me. At all.

    And for some reason, I *always* forget Robbie when making these lists. That can’t be good.

    It’s scary that I was agreeing with Paula the most tonight. I just want to know who pissed in Simon and Randy’s wheaties.

  • Tracy

    I really liked David Cook tonight. Actually, all the Davids were pretty good.

    I felt bad for Jason C. He looked like he was going to puke up there.

    And Luke is nice to look at, but his personality is sorely lacking IMO.

  • dukesterathlete

    I think it is safe to say now that NEVER in this point in the competition has someone dominated like David Archuleta is doing now. I think the “OMG HE’S ONLY 17!” rule actually applies to him. I can’t see him losing- and im actually glad because i really like the kid, i mean you can not like his voice if u want (your probably tone deaf or one of those people who just doesn’t like the young talent that wipes the floor with everyone else) but you can’t not like him as a person. He’s the only contestant that does everything right in terms of being the American Idol too (ie.e personality, the way he carries himself, and looks)

    That being said…i think david hernandez is the second best male. I just hope he has the votes to pull him along to the end

    Plus- people were talking last year at just the star power of the names in the finale and they said last year’s (Jordin & Blake) held no sparkle whatsoever and i think a DAVID vs. DAVID finale is real real catchy. Dontcha?? that or a David & Danny (but as much as i want that to happen i have a feeling it wont.

    LONG LIVE SEASON 7- David A. is going to kill with album sales when he wins too…i’m really good at predicting those things btw. (i called taylor from a mile away, just to name an example…sorry, but true)

  • http://myspace.com/saltwatercures pj

    I’m voting for Jason C, David H, Luke, and Danny (VFTW)

    Gay Strippers FTW!

    Oh, and note to Simon: I prefer word geeks to drag racers any day.

  • daisy

    Boring song choices, redundant comments. Felt frankly bored much of the time tonight. Michael J was horrid and got a pass from the judges, unbelievable. I actually liked David H a lot tonight, Luke, not so much, despite his looks, a very strange and contrived performance
    Chikezie doing E’s top three song, Elliott was better and was trashed for the song selection that night, Chickie mentioned Elliott in his interview, way way too obvious. Big turn off for me,hate a copy cat.

    Not liking the snottiness of some of these contestants, way way too entitled imo

  • judy

    Simon just said they so many songs from the 80s to sing. Ummmmm, Simon, make that 50 songs to choose from. I hate that they are limiting them like this. Or maybe this isn’t the greatest set of guys they’ve ever had? Which is it? OK, I’ll say it………I keep thinking about Elliott, Taylor, Chris and what they could do with these songs. Yes, I am a S5 fan and so far no one has compared, period.

  • jpfan

    I didn’t like David A’s interpretation of the song but vocally he’s in another league from the rest of the guys. The girls are already screaming and he’s got a sweet demeanor. Unless, his vocal cords give out this looks like the most one sided idol season ever.

    I couldn’t believe Chiceze did the song that doomed Elliott on top 3 night but he actually did a good job. Plus both he and David A give props to Elliott on the video interviews so I know they’re real fans.

  • DovCohen

    Once again the top performances go to the two Davids. Both are fabutastic, and David Archuleta’s interpretation of ‘Imagine’ was very moving, and beautiful.

    The weakest performances yet again included Jason Yeager, and Luke Menard. They will likely be the two going home this week, but there is the chance that Chikizie will go home based on his smarting off to Simon. There has historically been a two-week delay in someone getting the boot for that sort of thing. So, if he’s pissed off enough ppl, then he will be the one that gets the boot along with Jason Yeager. Fantasia has really been the only one who could get away with taking on Simon.

    The other two of the four weak ones tonight: Michael Johns, and how happy I am to say it. I’m sick to death of all these pros with connections performing on the show. The sooner Michael, Carly, et.al. go home the better. Robbie was also one of the weakest, but he has at least one more week in him, perhaps even into the top 12.

    So, my call is for Jason Y. and Luke to go home, with the chance that Chikizie might face the repercussions for his uncontrollable mouth.

    Jason Castro’s eyes: *sigh* *melt* *swoon*

  • Chicago-sally

    Michael’s problem is 1) age; 2) a smugness that he thinks he’s the ‘chosen’ one; 3) David A – the 17 year old :smile_wp:

  • DovCohen

    Will David Archuleta do what Mario did? Um, Mario left because he came on to a guy and was about to be sued for it. He didn’t really leave to pursue his career, or disliking the AI contract. I don’t think David Archuleta would come on to a guy in the bathroom since he could get any guy or girl to do anything he desired. But since the questioner may not know what the real story is and may be asking if he would leave to be on his own, the answer is ‘no’. He may breakaway like Kelly did, but only after his contract with Clive is up.

  • judy

    David H. was awesome tonight!!

  • dukesterathlete

    All those people who claim that David A. didn’t just kill that song, either by proclaiming him to be part of the Mickey Mouse Club or how he didn’t know how to interpret the song- i think its sad that you just can’t acknowledge his talent *coughs* Sarah *coughs* Nostradamas

  • http://www.myspace.com/swood1104 Sarah

    Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m sick to death of all these pros with connections performing on the show.

    You do realize that one of your faves from tonight is also one of those semi-pro, right? David Archuleta won Star Search when he was 12.

  • dukesterathlete

    “I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t think David Archuleta would come on to a guy in the bathroom since he could get any guy or girl to do anything he desired. ”

    haha- very nice.

  • http://kmantoniva.blogspot.com/ KristiVA

    I like Danny. He makes me laugh every time! He also gives me my blog titles!

  • Chicago-sally

    Mario left because he came on to a guy and was about to be sued for it.

    Not right. Mario left because he got a record contract from Clive Davis….he was tight with Alicia Keys (sang backup and did some other musical stuff) and about 3 months after the show he signed a contract. That “scandal” which hasn’t been heard from since, came out one year after he signed the contract and had a hit record out.

  • St.Lucia

    Oh, and note to Simon: I prefer word geeks to drag racers any day.

    AMEN, PJ. As a fan of Crosswords myself, I found David C entirely charming.

    Good night tonight, and I do think it will be Jason Yeager…(Long Train Running is such a BAND song, not a American Idol song…ick) and Luke Menard going home(although Luke was greatly improved).

    Enjoyed David H. David C.

    I’m forgiving the Aussie for bad performance. Still can’t stand Robbie….wouldn’t be surprised if he doesn’t make it to the top 12 males. It definitely didn’t “rock” at all. You may LIKE rock, but that doesn’t mean you can SING rock. I still find Jason C entirely endearing.

    David A. I’m such an Imagine purist, so I’m biased. But I have to give the kid SOME credit, at least he didn’t grin a cheesy grin throughout the song and he CAN sing with some maturity, which is a rarity, but sorry, can we end the show now and crown him winner already?

    In all my seasons I’ve never seen such a reaction to a contestant in the semi’s…. He’s just unstoppable right now….but that’s what happens when you are bred to do this….

  • iloveoliver

    Oh dear. Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m a huge Elliott fan and Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m probably biased, but I think that Elliottà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s performance was much better.

    I agree!!!!!!!!

    David Hernandez was fantastic tonight. Wow that finish was amazing.

    I agree as well.

    I didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t like David Aà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s interpretation of the song. I like his voice. I like John Lennon’s version…the only one for me. Just the way he sings it brings goosebumps.

  • cheese

    i think its sad that you just canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t acknowledge his talent

    I think it’s sad that you can’t read mj’s posting guidelines and let people have their opinions.

    I didn’t love anybody tonight. I liked Jason C, Danny and David c. Shoot me now. I think I was charmed by his nerdiness. Now he needs to get a haircut and remove the snotrag from his back pocket and he can be my nasty, greasy, pasty, poser tv boyfriend. Ok, maybe not.

    Luke, Jason Y. and Chikeze must have had a bet to see who could be the cheesiest. Micheal was just off and Robbie is irrelevant. I hated what David did to Imagine and I find him to be gaspy and Kermit-y in addition to being overpimped.

  • Lu

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ORW9KI4JSm4

    If anyone is interested – check out what the judges said to Elliott about this song and compare the comments they made about the same song tonight…

    And remember how Paula said how great it was that Chickie put his name in the song????? interesting.

  • tinawina

    Hot Aussie blew chunks, but he’ll be back next week. His fanbase will carry him through.

    Luke – I hope he’ll be back. I need backup for Hot Aussie. But Luke will never, ever win.

    I aagree with Preston abot David A. I don’t know that he will actually win. He’s peaking early, and that doesn’t always go well. There will be a backlash at some point.

    I hope Jason Castro sticks around too, just because he’s interesting.

    I don’t care at all about Robbie. Damn poseur.

    Chizeke is annoying to me. But he sang well. And he has the Nigerians in his corner, so who knows? Shades of Scott Savol with that one, though.

    Danny N. will get annoying real fast.

    Danny H is the “hard working guy who improves every week” of this season.

    Jason Y is toast. A cute kid can only save you for 1 week. Ugh.

    David Cook was good, but I just don’t know how I feel about him yet.

    That is all. LOL!

  • http://therockstarstories.com ttalent

    Michael Johns was not great tonight but overall he has been excellent, a real pro performer. A 17 year old is a real wild card especially since he’s already had a bout of vocal paralysis. Hopefully his voice will hold out but the show demands are incredible and even the strongest singers can have problems.

  • jersey

    I’m not feelin’ the Chickeze love either. I agree with Sarah, Luke was 100% better this week. (also, I love me some Killer Queen). I also really liked Jason C and David H. Go Cannon Fodder!!!

  • http://www.myspace.com/swood1104 Sarah

    dukesterathlete – I can acknowledge his talent, dear. Not taking that away in the least. Great voice. My cup of tea? No. A great artist is not always JUST a great singer.

    That being said, does he even know what “Imagine” is about? Doubt it. And I’m not the only one here who does not believe that his interpretation left a lot to be desired. At least Jordin could fake “emotion”.

    I love how it all comes down to being a “jellus h8r” or being tone deaf when a critical statement is made. LMAO. :rolleyes_wp:

  • St.Lucia

    Chikezie rubs me wrong too. I think he comes off a bit too cocky for my liking and I just can’t stomach him.

  • longsong

    Blech, I don’t get all the David H. love! I myself find him drop dead boring.

    Dang if I didn’t like David A. even though I find young performers generally annoying, dang if Danny N. isn’t growing on me, and dang if my new least favorite is that rocker wannabe double chain no-chin guy! Go figure.

  • DovCohen

    Sarah, my sweet, David Archuleta isn’t a pro in terms of having connections to the recording industry. He has none, and never did. Yes, he won Star Search but that isn’t the same thing. Taylor had two CDs and performed for nearly a decade before AI. So did Bo. The biggest problem with Michael, Carly, and the others, is that they have actual connections with some professional training, coaching, etc… David A is just talented. So, that is why I don’t put him in the same category. And it’s not because I’m in love with him. (I am in love with Josiah, too. Unfortunately he hasn’t returned my calls and I can’t get a refund on the wedding ring. Oh, and he’s not gay, so that’s probably why he isn’t returning my calls :.D )

  • Chicago-sally

    RE: Chikezie & Elliot — did it occur to anyone that maybe Donny’s daughter Kenya helped both of them pick the song? It’s her father’s song and she sings backup….it doesn’t seem odd to me….we don’t know how “close” these singers are with the orchestra and the backups.

    Just my thoughts. But comparing the two, I prefer Chikezie’s to Elliott’s.

  • abbysee

    17 or not, Star Search or not, David A did something that his semipro older counterpart did not do, he delivered. He sang that song, he understood the lyrics, he interpreted them beautifully and skillfully. It was indeed a masterclass performance. David H, he was freaking HOT, he did an awesome job. Chickeze was very good, and although vocally Elliott might have done it well, it was during that time that he still felt uncomfortable on stage, and it showed. Chi is very comfortable, borderline cocky, but he was good. As for the nod to Donny’s daughter, if he hadn’t done it, the fans would have said something, so he was damned that he did, and damned if he hadn’t. Bottom line, he did well, he redeemed himself from the chopping block, good for him. Jason Castro, eh, Jason Cook, did well also. Danny is a hoot!

    As for the gay bashing, I am so damn sick of that crap. I love Danny and his flamboyance, he is doing him. That does not preclude him from singing a love song. This is the year 2008, we are on the verge of having an African American male as the democratic presidential nominee, but a kid can’t get a break because he out is not closeted. That is a shame.

  • http://www.myspace.com/swood1104 Sarah

    I disagree, Dov. Star Search may not be as big as AI, but winning it is nothing to just sniff at. He’s had prior television exposure, and I TRULY doubt that he’s never had a manager or had opportunities presented to him.

    A plant is a plant is a plant.

    ETA:

    He sang that song, he understood the lyrics, he interpreted them beautifully and skillfully.

    See, and I just can’t agree with that, and I just watched it again, since my roommate was watching on dvr. I ever haven’t liked when ANYONE on AI performed “Imagine” (not even Blake, and I think we ALL know how I feel about him!!), and David did absolutely nothing to change my mind.

    I guess this is just where I will have to agree to disagree.

  • daisy

    thanks for the link to E’s song, Lu, good memories (: , still my fav performance from Elliott and I know he loves the song
    as far as David A- the boy can sing, yes, he can, with time and some maturity, I can see him doing very very well.
    The cheezy smiling from Jason and the rockstar posing tonight from David and Robbie seemed to doom them for me.
    Hoping danny N sticks around a while, I find him rather endearing and cute, and a break from the snotty ones

  • Chicago-sally

    Chikezie rubs me wrong too. I think he comes off a bit too cocky for my liking and I just canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t stomach him.

    He’s Nigerian. I used to date them. They have that “can-do” you can’t stop me, I am Man, type of attitude. And it what helps them survive and thrive.

    The problem with Danny N. is he “looks” effiminate singing a song about (heterosexual) love and he is too young to put that much emotion into the song. And he was “pitchy”; sorry.

  • DovCohen

    Sarah, I respect your opinion, and understand your point of view. David Archuleta is the only one that I would make an exception to when considering all of the plants in the top 24 this year. Thankfully we have the Danny’s and David H’s to keep it interesting.

    If anybody hears from Josiah, remember that he’s mine and you can’t have him :.)

  • http://myspace.com/saltwatercures pj

    David A did something that his semipro older counterpart did not do, he delivered. He sang that song, he understood the lyrics, he interpreted them beautifully and skillfully

    Really? I didn’t feel the way he performed that song AT ALL. I wouldn’t say he interpreted it well. It’s a beautiful simple song and he overperformed it. *shrugs*

    ETA: Loved all the tweens in the audience. Didn’t our spoiler come from someone on a school trip? Deck stacked? Nah. Never.

  • judy

    I think David might be the sleeper who will surprise everyone this year. But, I wonder if he got on Simon’s bad side. Could be trouble.

  • Nostradamas

    dukesterathlete…going for the perma-ban are you?

    David A. may have some talent…..but he’s like cotton candy to a good steak when it comes to being a real “artist” and not just a trained monkey.

  • Chicago-sally

    Jason C. looks like a yard boy….not a ‘star’.

  • http://myspace.com/saltwatercures pj

    Jason C. looks like a yard boyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.not a à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢starà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢.

    I was going to say something, but it sounded nasty.

    Jason C, call me. :)

  • taran33

    David H. blew me away tonight. I liked David A.’s performance too. I don’t get the gay bashing. I hope Danny and David H. hang in there til the top 2 ‘specially to p*ss some people off.

  • http://www.myspace.com/swood1104 Sarah

    LOL, okay Dov. I can’t see making an exception for a plant because his prior experience isn’t “good enough”, so to speak, to be considered semi-pro, but that’s just me.

    As I said, I don’t deny the kid has a great voice. Just not my cup o’ tea. My pre-teen and teenage neices will eat him up though, I’m sure.

    ETA: Yard boys have dreads? Hmmm. Send one my way.

    ETA2:

    ETA: Loved all the tweens in the audience. Didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t our spoiler come from someone on a school trip? Deck stacked? Nah. Never.

    Between that and the clip singing in front of the AI1 cast, the only thing missing was the flames of pimpage.

  • jersey

    LOL pj. Great minds think alike.

  • ealbino

    17 or not, Star Search or not, David A did something that his semipro older counterpart did not do, he delivered. He sang that song, he understood the lyrics, he interpreted them beautifully and skillfully. It was indeed a masterclass performance. David H, he was freaking HOT, he did an awesome job. Chickeze was very good, and although vocally Elliott might have done it well, it was during that time that he still felt uncomfortable on stage, and it showed. Chi is very comfortable, borderline cocky, but he was good. As for the nod to Donnyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s daughter, if he hadnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t done it, the fans would have said something, so he was damned that he did, and damned if he hadnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t. Bottom line, he did well, he redeemed himself from the chopping block, good for him. Jason Castro, eh, Jason Cook, did well also. Danny is a hoot!

    As for the gay bashing, I am so damn sick of that crap. I love Danny and his flamboyance, he is doing him. That does not preclude him from singing a love song. This is the year 2008, we are on the verge of having an African American male as the democratic presidential nominee, but a kid canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t get a break because he out is not closeted. That is a shame.

    AMEN!

  • Chicago-sally

    Taran33 and all — you’re probably referring to what I wrote about Danny and David H.; no? The plain truth is that they won’t make it to the top 10. Certainly not the top 5, because 1) the producers won’t allow it; and 2) the public which is made up of women won’t vote them through. If women make up most of AI’s audience and do the voting, do you think they will vote for “Michael” or “Danny”?….I’m betting Michael.

  • http://idolstages.com Connie D.

    I like the way Jason Castro plays guitar, it looks good on him. But… I like folk-singers with guitars, and I hope he will turn out to be my folk-singer.

    Good show tonight. I’m not saying I liked Chikezie’s song better than Elliott’s version in Season 5, but it was very good.

    Enjoyed David A’s “Imagine”, and loved David Hernandez tonight.

  • http://www.myspace.com/swood1104 Sarah

    If women make up most of AIà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s audience and do the voting, do you think they will vote for à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Michaelà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  or à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Dannyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ?à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m betting Michael.

    Let’s see. I’m a woman. I’m voting for both.

  • judy

    David A. is too darn sugary for me when he’s not singing. When he sings, he seems like he’s 15 years older. It’s weird. I’m not sure I liked the arrangement, but he made it his own and his vocals were spot on.

  • DovCohen

    Here is a cut ‘n’ paste of a comment I made last week. This is for our friendly cohorts that find gay people make them uncomfortable:

    Oh, and as for those who keep saying the show is BECOMING too gay? Guess what? Here is a list, all of whose names can be found in the press. (i.e. it isnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t original with me)

    Season 01: Jim Veraros; Ejay Day; RJ Helton
    Season 02: Vanessa Olivarez; (some claim Clay, but he says no)
    Season 04: Anwar Robinson
    Season 05: Will Makar; Ace Young (bi)
    Season 06: Sanjaya Malakar
    Season 07: Danny Noriega

    Apparently David H. is part of this group, too. There have been some claims that David A. is gay, but from the posts left by his friends and family he is not, and is a very devout Mormon. (of course, that doesn’t mean he couldn’t be closeted. With all the gay guys on the show this year it could be a boys dream)

  • abbysee

    It seems that Imagine is a sacred cow.

    The kid can sing. His voice has nuance and technically he is quite awesome. As for Jordin’s emoting, I would often say, I wasn’t feeling it so much, drama yes, emotion, eh? I just think that “she’s just 17″ from last year is coloring the way David is being judged. He is just as good as Jordin, and it is showing now. He is a front runner, and he should be.

  • http://www.myspace.com/gundomom CarieB

    Awww, came back to chat and y’all are gone. Probably power voting. Have fun!

  • ealbino

    Different strokes for different folks… I love this board!

  • http://www.myspace.com/xmisstarax Miss Tara

    ok, I’ve hit a Season 5 low….I re-downloaded DialIdol, so I could use it to vote, as well as using the cell phone. *sigh*

    Jason Castro is too close to the bottom on Dial Idol. Y’all needs to vote!

  • http://www.myspace.com/swood1104 Sarah

    Tara, I’m texting. You know they can’t measure that. :)

    1st hour for hot Aussie because I need actual testosterone on my television screen and not the next coming of the Jonas Brothers.

    2nd hour for dread boy. :)

  • barefootgirl

    sigh. I’m breaking my vow that I’d never vote again after S5 MissTara. Go Jason C!

  • jpfan

    In my crystal ball I see David A winning Idol but I don’t see him becoming a superstar. Unless, they reposition him as Josh Groban, I don’t see the mass appeal. I think Jason Y, Luke, Robbie and maybe David Cook or Chiceze won’t make it. Micheal and Jason C. were both awful. David H is Mario Vasquez reborn. I just don’t see one guy anywhere near David A vocally which is a shame as he’s megaboring.

    I think most Idol voters are pretty clueless about who’s gay and probably have just barely figured out Danny is gay. The other gay guys probably won’t register on their radar or they won’t care. Idol doesn’t seem to have a problem with it this year.

  • poporange

    deleted

  • Chuckles

    Ah, the Idol ‘gay’ question. It seems like this one comes up every other year, or whenever someone leaves the show early. Has anyone noticed that the interest is always in the sexual preference of the male Idols? Have there been Lesbian Idol contestants, or perhaps even a Lesbian winner? And why does it matter anyway?
    It’s freeking 2008 for cryin’ out loud?

    Well: because this is a reality show meant to appeal to a broad range of viewers (translation: 18-49 year old white women). And, it seems, that it matters to the producers that the demographic that watches this show not be given openly gay male contestants to have to consider.

    If someone was to present themselves as an openly gay, lesbian or bi individual it would be a very interesting thing to see how the producers and America (as represented by the viewers of this show) would react.

    Remember what happened to Elton John? Have we progressed in 30 years?
    God I hope so.

  • DovCohen

    Chicago-Sally:

    The producers may not LIKE who gets through, but all they can do is attempt to manipulate the viewing audience who are becoming more savvy and aware of this. If they push too hard the public will rebel and put through singers THEY want, not who the producers or Clive would want. Votes and vote totals aren’t faked, and there aren’t any legal ways they can boot someone who received adequate votes – this is just an unfounded theory espoused by those not familiar with the inner workings of the show.

    Michael vs. Danny: Depends on where we are in the competition. They will both make the top 12, but so far Danny has had the weaker performances when compared to Michael. Danny has a very strong fan base, and now has VFTW on his side giving him even more votes. They will both make the top 10. The great thing (for Danny fans) is that, unlike Michael, Danny has the potential to grow during the competition, which is what everyone likes about the show. Danny could really shine after a few weeks, and could surprise everyone. Michael on the other hand is already a pro, already knows who he is, knows his limitations, and has lots of experience being almost 30 years old. So advantage goes to Danny. Old ladies like a cute sassy flamer so long as they don’t think he could really be gay. But with the strong viewership from the American south (i.e. Bible Belt) Danny could take a hit there.

  • longsong

    I actually think the pre-teens will LOVE David A. and won’t find him one bit mega-boring.

    As for us women – well, ME, go Jason C. and Michael! And Luke, sorta!

  • http://www.myspace.com/xmisstarax Miss Tara

    Did I just read somewhere earlier on this thread that Jason Castro looked like a yard boy?

    Where can I buy one of these? And will they play their guitar and sing lovely songs to me? And stare dreamily into my eyes with baby blues?

    I just got my tax check, I’m willing to pay top dollar.

  • Chuckles

    Miss Tara – ROFL!!!!

  • longsong

    Not if I see him first, Miss Tara!

  • DovCohen

    Miss Tara: I’ll buy Jason C. for you if you buy Josiah Leming for me. Deal? :.D

  • Lu

    I just want to clear up the reason I posted that Elliott vid. I’m not saying his performance was better (of course I’m biased and I think that!). I posted so you could see the judges comments at the end.
    When Elliott did the song they complimented how he did the song but totally ragged on him for picking an obscure song that nobody knew. Tonight they praised Chickie for his fantastic song choice… I wish someone would ask them to explain that one…

  • http://myspace.com/saltwatercures pj

    Yeppers, Longsong. Although Michael sucked donkey balls tonight and Jason rushed his song (on second viewing). I’m still loving Jason, though.

  • barefootgirl

    Jason Y moved ahead of Jason C on dialidol. What’s up with that? arrgggh. I can’t go through this again.

  • jdt

    I feel David Hernandez was far and away the best of the night….not only was he vocally great, also an entertaining performance…..David A. was definitely with him vocally, but to me it’s not a lot different than what else he has done…..good voice, but he sounds the same to me each week….

  • Lu

    Jason Y???????? you’re kidding!

  • thesheriff

    Really enjoyed Imagine but I still wanna eat Michael up..I’d like to see Luke, Jason Y and Danny go. Regarding David Cook – I actually liked the crossword thing!!

  • longsong

    *I find myself wishing I was comprised of donkey balls. odd*

  • DovCohen

    Lu: the reason is because Elliott sang the song at the very important top 3 phase of the competition. To sing an ‘unknown’ song at that point is dangerous, and came off as indulgent. For Jacuzzi to sing it tonite was good because it was cheeky; he was making fun of the rag about his name and the remembering of his name. The circumstances were different, thus the judging was different, and rightly so. (BTW I was/am a hugemongous EY fan)

  • jpfan

    Who knows how long Jason C. or Danny will make it in the competition but I can’t see them lasting too long. Plus, I’m annoyed with the early prediction that this would be strongest top 12 ever. Lies. Aside from David A, none of the guys tonight showed that extra something to indicate star quality or a winning personality.

  • http://myspace.com/saltwatercures pj

    lol, longsong :)

  • Chicago-sally

    DovCohen: Sanjaya is gay? NO!!!!! You don’t say???? And Ace is bi — didn’t he have a girlfriend who was an actress? You don’t say????
    And “where are they now?”

  • Lu

    lol Jacuzzi…

    I’ve decided the judges are bipolar and I’ll never figure it out!

  • longsong

    CARP! Must vote for Jason C.! It’s too soon for him to go!

  • bean99

    I completely disagreed with the judges about David A. I hated his version of Imagine. He made a simple, moving song into a cabaret version. Double yuck. :thumbdown_tb:

    Michael’s song wasn’t perfect but I enjoyed it (and his arms) anyway. David H, David C, and Chikeze were the best tonight imo.

  • jdt

    I can see why Jason Y. is moving up on Dial Idol….he basically got a raw deal tonight….the producers don’t want him to go past this week…

    I don’t really like the guy myself, but his performance was OK….definitely not worthy of the very harsh criticism….did anyone else feel that?

    Yet Michael Johns was much worse tonight and nothing bad was really said about his performance…

    I think I’m going to start using my TIVO to fast forward thru the judges comments

  • http://www.myspace.com/xmisstarax Miss Tara

    I just want Jason C on tour….Top 10 baby, please!! I need a reason to go this year.

    I’ve gone almost two years now without being a fangirl. I need that back in my life.

    And now he’s in the bottom two on dialidol. How that is possible I don’t know. And I don’t exactly trust the accuracy of dialidol, but i would feel better about life if he were in the top 4 over there.

  • http://www.myspace.com/gundomom CarieB

    I just watched a bit of the Luke clip (Thanks, MJ – that was lightning fast).

    I think he says “She keeps her poet and shadrom – in a pretty cabinet” and he means to say Moet and Chandon. LMAO. Looks FINE doing it however.

    ETA: I’m going in!

  • Chicago-sally

    DovCohen: Vote for the Worst is pushing Danny to win. He’ll probably end up in the top 10.

  • Lu

    I agree about the harshness of the judges on Jason Y… over critical I thought for sure. I felt sorry for the guy.

  • abbysee

    I never vote this early, but I think I should have thrown in a few for Jason C. He is charming.

  • jdt

    While I’m at it, Robbie is a joke….I can’t believe this guy even made it to Hollywood….

  • DovCohen

    Chicago-Sally: Yes, I know. I guess you don’t know about me ;.)

    Miss Tara: Don’t fear yet. The West Coast hasn’t even seen the show yet, and there are still several hours of voting left. I can’t imagine Jason C. going home this week, but he could conceivably make the bottom 2. (which would surprise me)

  • tinawina

    Oh, girls will vote for gay guys. We’ve been buying gays guys records, seeing their movies, etc forever. If Leo Marlowe had made it, I don’t think it would have been a problem. It wouldn’t stop anyone from making the top 10 at least. If you are hot, charismatic, and humble, AI voters will power you forward.

    Oh, and Chizeke version’s of the song had more.. um.. .swagger to me. That song is supposed to be delivered with a sense of sexual urgency. Elliot didn’t really bring that the first time. He sounded good technically, but it was sorta tentative. So I can see why Chinzeke would get high marks for it.

    Now excuse me while I vote for Jason C about a thousand times. LOL!

  • longsong

    But…but…the bottom two GO!!

  • http://myspace.com/saltwatercures pj

    Wow, Danny is last. Go VFTW.

    I don’t trust DI, though.

    How long are the voting windows? Did Ryan say?

  • abbysee

    Well my 17 year old is a huge R&B fan, doesn’t listen to radio disney (my 11 year old does), yet she mooned the entire time David sang. Of course she loved Sanjaya too, and didn’t care if he was gay or not. I think teens like people who are identifiable to them, and it mainly crosses, race, ethnicity, genre etc. It’s one of the things I actually like about the show.

    Lu, for the record, I too love Elliott, I consider him my homeboy cause I lived in Richmond for a while and my Grandma was born there as well. I think when he sang the song it was obscure, but after that night and 30 million viewers not so anymore.

    As for the judges, Randy’s ears are clogged, to me he is more suspect this year. Paula I get mostly because I think she is the least scripted and if you can interpret her inarticulateness (if that is a word, lol), she is the most truthful. Between her not liking to hurt feelings, you can see the truth in her critiques, words are not her friends however, but she is pretty astute sometimes. Tonight she was pretty much dead on, imho. Simon was just irritable tonight, and it showed. It’s like he knew the crap was gonna stink, and it did, mostly.

  • barefootgirl

    Elliott brung it that night for me. yes he did. I thought it was one of his best.

    I haven’t gotten one busy signal yet for Jason C.

  • DovCohen

    longsong: Oops, that’s right. It’s only week two. I guess I shouldn’t be fantasizing about Josi…er, um…I mean reading a BBC article while typing my comments. (just kidding) Make that bottom 3 instead of bottom 2. My call for the weakest four were Jason Y, Luke, Robbie, and Michael Johns. If ‘pretty-eyes Castro’ goes home this week I’d be shocked (and it would injure my record)

  • http://myspace.com/saltwatercures pj

    If à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹pretty-eyes Castroà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ goes home this week Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢d be shocked (and it would injure my record)

    *working to preserve dov’s record*

    ETA: Jason C is now last on DI. :(

  • judy

    Last year, Melinda was fantatic and consistent, but for some reason she became boring for me after a while (which I felt bad about since I thought her talent was so far above anyone else last year).

    I wonder if this will happen to David A. delivering one perfect performance after another as the season goes on?

  • primeminister

    Jason’s number isn’t working for me!!! Have the lines closed?

    Crap, I wasn’t here tonight, so I haven’t watched the performances yet. SAVE JASON CASTRO!

  • Nostradamas

    I’ll go ahead and predict that David A. won’t sell as many CD’s as Taylor…..unless they make him a male (?) Hannah Montana….(I call dibs on the rights to this idea BTW….)

  • http://www.myspace.com/xmisstarax Miss Tara

    Jasonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s number isnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t working for me!!! Have the lines closed?

    No, you should have 8 more minutes of voting.

  • IGetCranked

    Ok I just logged on to freak out about Jason C being last on dial idol. @_@ This can’t happen! I didn’t even WANT to like him because I hate hair like that but darnit last week he made me!

    *steps back*

    Ok, calmness and common sense is prevailing…. There is lots of voting and texting to go. Dial idol changes quite a bit before it’s over and it is not to be depended on anyway.

    *runs screaming into the night*

    I haven’t even had time to watch the dang show tonight anyway.

  • dukesterathlete

    Nostradamas im keeping that statement locked in my mind…i cant wait to remind you when the time comes…nothing but love though.

  • http://myspace.com/saltwatercures pj

    Don’t we get until 11 to vote?

    ETA: Or 12, depending on time zone?

  • DovCohen

    judy: I agree. He is this year’s ‘best singer’ in terms of control, pitch, etc…, but that can also work against a person. It doesn’t look like he has much room to grow, except in terms of performance and confidence. One thing he has going for him is the teen and tween vote which is HUGE. It took Sanjaya far. It took Diana DeGarmo far. It took Carmen Rasmusen far. It got Kevin Covais in the top 12. David is also winning over a lot of adults who want to squish him and gay bois who want to, well, um, squish him. So, he has a lot on his side. But, he could be this year’s ‘shocking’ elimination. When we get down to the top 5 things start getting fun in terms of voting patterns. It’s at that point when someone who was safe for weeks can go home because the previous 7 who left had their votes go to other people and the safe ones are always considered safe and lose votes.

  • http://www.myspace.com/xmisstarax Miss Tara

    Donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t we get until 11 to vote?

    ETA: Or 12, depending on time zone?

    i really have no idea. I was just basing it on 2 hours to vote. Since it ended at 9:30est, i assumed voting would end at 11:30est.

    I’ll keep voting until they cut me off though.

  • http://myspace.com/saltwatercures pj

    Oh, makes sense, Tara. I think I’m cut off. LOL. Busy now.

  • http://www.myspace.com/xmisstarax Miss Tara

    Yep, I’ve been cut off.

    I did what I could. I’m guessing 800 votes from me tonight. That is insane, and I can’t believe I admitted it on here.

    He’s still in the bottom, so I hope those hippies out west come through for me tonight.

  • http://myspace.com/saltwatercures pj

    LOL, Tara. After that intro, I have to wonder if they are trying to make him out to be the male Kellie. :rolleyes_wp:

    ETA: Don’t worry too much about DI at this stage. The only safe one is precious David A.

  • http://www.myspace.com/xmisstarax Miss Tara

    Haha, I thought that intro was adorable.

    He’s presh. I really hope he sticks around for a few more weeks. My tv needs the pretty.

  • beesims

    I completely disagreed with the judges about David A. I hated his version of Imagine. He made a simple, moving song into a cabaret version.

    Count me in on the David A. hate. I have a particular aversion to his kind of precocity. The fact that a 12 year old boy is pushed in front of Kelly Clarkson to sing “I’m Telling You” without the faintest clue as to the meaning of the song reeks of stage parents who have been pushing him in front of the cameras since he got out of diapers. I will grant you all that he is a gifted vocalist, but I don’t buy that aw shucks “you like me, you really like me” bullshit he does when the judges praise him to the heavens. BTW, was anyone else creeped out by Paula’s wanting to squish him, cut off his head and dangle it from a car mirror?

    The pleasant surprise of the night—David Cook’s love of crossword puzzles managed to redeem the hideous hair and the shmatta sticking out of his back pocket for the second time.

    I was bummed that Aussie hottie didn’t deliver on “Go Your Own Way’ because I love me some Fleetwood Mac and plant or no plant, I like the eye candy and the accent. Luke Menard was much improved but I don’t see him making it to Top 12. I would be happy to see Jason Y and Robbie Carrico get the boot on Thursday.

  • Sparkles

    While Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m at it, Robbie is a jokeà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.I canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t believe this guy even made it to Hollywoodà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.

    Does any one else think that Robbie wears a wig? His hair looks weird & he very gently pushes it out of his eyes instead of running his fingers through it. If he really wants to be a rocker, he should just go baldy like Daughtry. Oh, and get a huge tattoo on his back too.

  • http://www.myspace.com/swood1104 Sarah

    Nostradamas – I actually agree with that prediction. If Jordin’s having a hard time doing it with a top 10 hit that is seemingly ubiquitous, how the hell would David A do it? Besides, what’s his musical identity anyway?

    ETA: I actually am wondering about the marketability about a lot of these contestants.

  • DovCohen

    Tonight’s episode has been posted and is available on usenet and as a .torrent

  • http://myspace.com/saltwatercures pj

    Tara, not saying it was disingenuous, just a bit hammed. :)

  • JNM

    Thought David H. did a fantastic job tonight! Sadly the pretty boys did not. (Michael and Luke, of course.) Ah well.

    I think the little girls are going to vote vote Vote for David A. and he will win. Think Simon has dollar signs shining before his eyes when it comes to David A. Oh yes. He will definitely sell to the “High School Musical” crowd.

  • Anne67

    I hated his version of Imagine. He made a simple, moving song into a cabaret version.

    Totally agree with this. Love the song Imagine. Did not care for what David A. did with this song at all. But then again I’m a true believer that you never mess with a John Lennon song. Ever. However, the kid can sing, no question there. But something about him bugs me, don’t know.

    Enjoyed David C. and David H., other than that…not so much.

  • http://www.myspace.com/swood1104 Sarah

    He will definitely sell to the à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“High School Musicalà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  crowd.

    If that turns out to be the case, he would be yet another AI winner that I care absolutely nothing about.

  • http://www.myspace.com/gundomom CarieB

    Have to agree with Simon so far. David H. best vocal so far tonight!

  • jpfan

    I don’t see the guys as very marketable. David A will do okay as a phenom but I don’t see the megasales. Idol really hasn’t done well selling to the teen audience. Anyway, that’s Clive’s problem. The real megabucks for Idol would be finding a fantastic male country artist and they can’t seem to do that.

  • Tracy

    I can’t believe Jason is last on DialIdol. Hope the Mountain and West coast help push him up a bit.

  • judy

    Sarah, I agree – marketability is questionable.

    David A. bugs me because he acts like a 12-year-old (except when he’s singing). He seems to be a very immature 16-year-old or 17-year-old or however the hell old he is. Don’t ask my why that bugs me, but it does. Maybe I’m just mean.

  • primeminister

    I only watched a couple of the performances; just got back from rehearsal.

    A couple thoughts: I don’t get the David A. love, although I thought he had great vocals. The tween girls will be calling in, I’m sure.

    David Cook’s performance was fantastic, although his reaction to Simon was a big turn off. He needs to work on appearing to be a nice guy, even if he isn’t.

    I may be alone in this, but I thought that even though Jason Castro looked awkward on stage, he had a good performance. It wasn’t necessarily exciting like last week, but I didn’t find the vocals weak at all. He just isn’t a belter like most of the other guys. Plus, the pre-performance interview was just so darn cute.

    And last but not least, having the judges base their negative comments on song selection is ridiculous when the contestants only have 50 songs to choose from.

  • IGetCranked

    The real megabucks for Idol would be finding a fantastic male country artist and they canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t seem to do that.

    They don’t seem to want to do that. I think that Colton guy and the farm boy would have been fun. I liked that tall cowboy from a few years ago too. I can’t think of his name but he was in a group with Garret.

  • http://www.xanga.com/werwanderflugen Preston

    I know people keep comparing David A to Jordin as far as their potential marketability goes, but you’ve got to keep in mind that Jordin NEVER had this kind of mass (youth) support and pimpage that David’s attracted. His level of popularity actually reminds me of Ruben/Clay way back in season two.

  • http://myspace.com/saltwatercures pj

    Jason C was either too fast for the band or they were too fast for him. Sigh. It was off, but he doesn’t deserve to go home. His vocals were fine.

  • primeminister

    The real megabucks for Idol would be finding a fantastic male country artist and they canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t seem to do that.

    They donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t seem to want to do that. I think that Colton guy and the farm boy would have been fun. I liked that tall cowboy from a few years ago too. I canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t think of his name but he was in a group with Garret.

    I’d have to agree. Maybe next year.

  • poporange

    deleted

  • DovCohen

    From what I’ve read from his friends and family David Archuleta is shy and quiet-natured. This would suggest that his ‘aw shucks’ reactions are quite authentic. He loves to sing and is pleased when others tell him he sings well. More than once he has said that he always loved to sing, but thought others were just being nice to him when saying he was good. Star Search is NOTHING like AI. This show is HUGE whereas Star Search was in syndication and didn’t have a large audience. AI has changed the industry. It’s quite likely given his nature that this is all truly overwhelming to him, very exciting, but is coming at him all at once. I prefer to give people the benefit of the doubt, especially when, in this case, people who know him are saying what kind of person he is.

  • judy

    And what happened to the soul the Aussie showed during his audition? It’s gone, gone, gone. Man, I loved him. Another Sundance. ‘sigh’

    ETA: just listening to David H. again – he was the best tonight.

  • http://myspace.com/saltwatercures pj

    Dov, he’s still a pageant boy. And he took on a song that was too big for him (or simple).

    He has a great voice.

    ETA: I’m not saying he wasn’t good, but with all that pimpage, you got to do better.

  • http://www.myspace.com/xmisstarax Miss Tara

    alright, i’m heading to bed with Jason still firmly in last place over on DI.

    My spirit will be baaaaroken if he leaves this week.

    Go go West Coasters. Make it work.

  • DovCohen

    pj: I agree to a certain extent. The fact of the matter is though that people tend to make judgments and form opinions about other people based solely upon what they see on TV. The total air time that he has received on AI thus far comes in at about 13 minutes – that’s all. Yet, there are people who have said he’s gay (disparagingly), that he’s phony, disingenuous, annoying, or immature. From what his family and friends say none of that is true. So, I take their word for it, rather than form an opinion based only on a facial expression, a couple words, a good song, bad song, way of moving, etc… Also, he only recently turned 17, which IS important in understanding who he is. When you were 17 did you have tons of girls and guys screaming for you, hundreds of comments about you online, newspaper articles, photo shoots, etc…? I think a 71 year old would be amazed by it all, not just a shy unassuming 17 year old.

  • primeminister

    Did anyone notice that David Archuleta’s mom was different this week????

  • gochiefs

    Here’s my take:
    1 Chikezie
    2 David H – Would have been 1 if not for that last note…lol
    3 David Cook – I think the overall performance had big impact.
    4 David A – Beautiful singing… but, if it were anyone else, it would have been viewed as a ‘safe’ choice.
    5 Danny – he’s gunna get old fast….
    6 Luke – enjoyed his performance this week
    7 Jason Castro – the element of surprise didn’t hold over a 2nd week for me
    8 Michael Johns – was he even trying?
    9 Jason Yeager – Theme park cheezy, (was tolerable with my eyes closed)
    10 Robbie – Nope…. didn’t get it done this week….

  • judy

    primeminster, I didn’t notice, but your post cracked me up!!

  • primeminister

    ETA: I downloaded Jason’s performance from Rickey’s and it’s actually better on audio. (Or maybe I want to make myself feel better about him being LAST on dialidol). BOOOOOOO :(

  • http://myspace.com/saltwatercures pj

    Dov, yeah. And on TV they are loving him, so no worries. ;)

    I have nothing against David A. I’m just not believing his take on either song so far. I do love his voice. I just think his schtick is a little too rehearsed. Not a slam on him personally…

  • DovCohen

    Over-rehearsed? Definitely. I put that down to his age, though. He has been singing since a little boy, so he has everything down pat – he knows how to ‘do’ it right. Remind us of anyone? Diana DeGarmo perhaps? She did everything technically right, sang amazingly well, was cute as a button, had an enormous teen following, but not only didn’t win the show she has had a hard time keeping the interest of anyone in the industry. She’s had a hard go of it, despite her talent. The same could happen to David unless Clive & company turn him into a sleek sexy pop singer, completely molding him and turning him into something he may well not be. Only time will tell. The industry lately has really pushed the sex appeal on young guys with some very revealing photo shoots with tight pants and open shirts. He appears to be very well endowed, and you can be sure they will exploit that to sell more magazines/CDs/concert tickets, etc…

  • Diana

    shoot, Jason C is last on Dial Idol?!

    Time to vote!

    It was a bad song choice but he sounded fine.

  • Sunny D

    If you look at the raw numbers at Dial Idol you see that Jason has a lot more votes going in. It is too early to have their prediction system work well. Once the field narrows it will be better.

  • Kirsten

    General Comments
    —————-

    1. Paula has a hit song? Where. Not on the radio or on iTunes. Maybe in the past.

    2. What is with Simon and the hand gesture for “Loser” all night? Very distracting. Was he trying to hold his brain in?

    3. How are they defining these years? One of these songs was originally from the 60s.

    Performance Comments
    ——————–

    1. Michael – “Go Your Own Way” (Fleetwood Mac – 1977) – Smooth move working in a mention of songwriting. Is he having gas pains or are those whinces due to the bad notes he’s hitting? Man, is this a limp performance. That sucked. And near the end, it was painful. Ugh. Good thing for him he had lots of previous pimping. Randy and Paula are whacked. Sing it Simon. Don’t speak for all women Paula.

    2. Jason C – “I Just Want to Be Your Everything” (Andy Gibb – 1977) – Dude. That interview. What’s with the energy level tonight? Last week, Jason had a great stage presence. This time he just seemed…faded. It was a nice arrangement. Judges: “Get out of your box”.

    3. Luke – “Killer Queen” (Queen – 1975) – I would have loved if he would have said: “What does the audience not know about me? Thanks to you guys. They know nothing” He was MUCH better than last week. Queen is hard to sing, but he lost the track in a few spots. He was smokin’ hot though. Simon sure is grumpy this week.

    4. Robbie – “Hot Blooded” (Foreigner – 1978) – Snooze. So much noise. Nobody seems to be sparking tonight. I notice the wallet-chain-of-great-length is still there. Man, the pickpocketting backstage at Idol must be CRAZY. That Nigel just can’t bypass any opportunity to make money. What is this boring disseration about “authentic”? Snooze.

    5. Danny – “Superstar” (Carpenters – 1971) – Danny the Be-checked Torch Singer. The vocals were fine, but talk about a clash of styles. Odd song choice for him. Inpsired by “Juno”?

    6. David H – “Papa was a Rolling Stone” (The Undisputed Truth – 1971) – Starting on the staircase is so last week. Lots of energy and good vocals, but kind of crazy eyes. Let’s stick to the long shots. This is the first performance of the night that really clicked.

    7. Jason Y – “Long Train Runnin’” (Doobie Brothers – 1973) – He’s got to lose the “Branson Smile”. It doesn’t suit this song (or many songs for that matter). It was just kind of there. It was okay. He seemed to have fun. Poor guy. He doesn’t realize that doing what the judges request won’t necessarily help if you are cannon fodder. “Nice” of Ryan to remind the audience about the dog comment from last week

    8. Chikezie – “I Believe to My Soul” (Ray Charles – 1962, Donny Hathaway) – I like the real pronunciation of his name better. Started a little messy, but was rocking it near the end. That was great. Didn’t Elliott namecheck himself with this same song on Final 3 boot night? He needs to stop defending that suit and slamming Simon. Elliott called out the backup singer too. LOL.

    9. David C – “All Right Now” (Free – 1977) – Drowned out by your own guitar…can’t blame bandzilla for that one. Don’t be winking at me. Gah, a little flat on the chorus when not playing the guitar. Again, another complete performance. Judges: “He’s the real deal. Vote for him not Robbie”. Robbie has probably ground his teeth to a pulp. Don’t be interupting Simon, David. A$$hat.

    10. David A – “Imagine” (John Lennon – 1971) – Gah! The screaming teens before the break. Suddenly, I understand why there was a school group there. Well played Nigel. Well played. I suspect “Crying Girl” was the inspiration. Is he the only one who got his songwriter named before the interview? Now they are showing us YouTube videos? The better not complain about YouTube playing their vidoes then. Yes, all the loons on the internet already know about that video. Tell us something we don’t know. The beauty of this song is that it is simple and sparse. I don’t appreciate the theatrics. The vocals were good, but I need some brain bleach for what he did to that song. Dangle from rearview mirror? Somebody up security on this kid. Could the pimp him anymore? If they tried? Seriously?

    Best: David H, Chikezie, David C.
    Worst: Michael, Jason Y, Jason C

    Who Should go Home: Michael and Jason Y
    Who Will Go Home: I really don’t have a clue.

  • abbysee

    Kirsten, I agree about the pronunciation of his name, the real one is absolutely beautiful. I love a good name, lol. He was indeed smoking. Michael should go home, but I will take a step out on that limb and say he is safe.

  • http://steve-o-meter.com steve-o-meter

    THANK YOU GUYS FOR POWER VOTING FOR JASON C!!!!

    On busy percentages and raw numbers he’s #2 on DialIdol

    I totally wasn’t able to vote and I was askeered!!

    I LOOOOOOVE Jason C!

  • http://steve-o-meter.com steve-o-meter

    I, personally, picked Robbie and Jason Y. to go home this week…they are icky :sick_ee:

  • jersey

    uh – stevo – Jason Y and Robbie are 2 and 3 on dial idol. I officially do not believe dial idol this week. There is no way they are above Michael Johns. Not that I thought Michael Johns was fantastic last night, but he was miles better than either of those two. I think I’m taking a chance and sticking with my picks regardless of dial idol.
    ETA: when I check busy percentages, Jason C is still near the bottom stevo – what are you looking at?

  • http://steve-o-meter.com steve-o-meter

    I actually am not sure what I was looking at…lol..but yeah, Jason Castro is #2 on Raw numbers….on Busy Percentages he’s 2nd to last, 4th from last on the Dial Idol numbers

    *cries*

    I think he’ll be okay though….I hope!

  • Chicago-sally

    this is a competition; wondering how these guys are feeling after all the David A. love? Remember last S6? Everybody was in love with each other, best buds, great friends….do you feel there may be some jealousy betw. the boys?

  • xoxoyc

    Two things:

    In Season 3 Simon hated Diana DeGarmo for being a paegant performer who was raised to sing. He claimed this because she had been on America’s Most Talented Kid and had been getting up to sing in front of people since she was young. 4 years later in Season 7 he is pimping the male version David Archuleta for the win. Go figure… Granted I’m not saying that either of them actually ARE paegant performers I’m just using his words.

    Secondly, I am so mad at TPTB. David Hernandez’s performance was equally as good if not better than David’s but they conveinently buried it in the middle of the show so that America would forget it and bask in the wonder of Imagine. I know this was done intentionally because they just about reversed the order from last week with the exception of David H. and David A. so this was actually an intentional manipulation of the audience.

    After 7 years I guess I shouldn’t be all that surprised.

  • longsong

    Blech. Still not liking David Hernandez. Booooooooring!!

    As for David A: I hate precocious youngsters as much as the next guy, but in my opinion he was still the best of the night.

  • t2

    Anyone else feel a little sorry for Danny? I think Danny’s voice is leaps and bounds better than David A’s, but it seems like his parents didn’t put him through the same pageant rigors that David A’s did. If Danny had the same training and experience that David A does, I think Danny would blow him out of the water.

  • http://www.myspace.com/swood1104 Sarah

    I put that down to his age, though. He has been singing since a little boy, so he has everything down pat – he knows how to à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹doà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ it right.

    This is exactly making PJ’s point that he is the male equivalent of a pageant performer.

    And XO, preach it sista!

  • Tony

    Just got finished watching. I think that Robbie is severely underrated. I thought he was really, really good.

    I think Jason Castro’s time is starting to run out. We saw how incredible he can do with really mellow songs, but I thought that what he did was almost identical to what he did last week. He’s good, but if that’s ALL he can do then he’s not going to stay long.

    David Hernandez: EXCELLENT tone. I thought he was the 2nd best tonight.

    …and what can I say that hasn’t been said about Archuleta? He was simply incredible.

    Overall, the guys were really good.

  • t2

    Can we get a list of songs that David A sang on Star Search? I would laugh like there’s no tomorrow if he sang the same songs now and won…and then someone let Simon know…bwahahahah

  • Karen

    Up the thread various mjers were saying Danny was too gay and young to be believable on Superstar. Maybe I don’t get the lyrics, but isn’t it about someone with a crush on a touring singer? I think teenagers since the beginning of time have been falling in love with touring singers. And I would think especially teenage boys, with male singers.

    Agree on Jason Y and Robbie for the boot.

  • calimari

    Michael Johns – à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Go Your Own Wayà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  – That was awful! And they didn’t even call him on his strained high notes. Must be nice to be blessed like that.
    Jason Castro – à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“I Just Want to Be Your Everythingà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  – never mind that I hate that song, but he wasn’t as on as last week either.
    Luke Menard – à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Killer Queenà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  – very challenging song to sing. A huge improvement over last week, altho a bit theatrical w/ his movements. Not sure how telling everyone you sing perfect acapello is going to help you when you then don’t sing perfectly.
    Robbie Carrico – à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Hot Bloodedà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  – Ummm..yeah. Not the best song. Better last week.
    Danny Noriega – à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Superstarà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  – I liked his Elvis better last week, actually; Not nuts about this song, but he didn’t do anything offensive.
    David Hernandez – à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Papa Was a Rolling Stoneà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  – Finally someone who really delivered. He was surprisingly good last week in the opening spot, and continued very well here.
    Jason Yeager – à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Long Train Runningà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  – OK, he can sing fine, but he just looks like he should be singing in a hotel. Last week he smiled too much thru the song & did the same here. I think he’s gone, which is not surprising.
    Chickezie – à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“I Believe to My Soulà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  – huge improvement for him over last week. Didn’t do it as well as Elliott.
    David Cook – à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“All Right Nowà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  – I liked him better than I thought last week, and I thought he did well this week too. Didn’t care for the wink. Hair is still too weird.
    David Archuleta – à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Imagineà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  – I know this kid can sing, I know his voice is smooth, and I know these idols must never touch “Imagine” again. This song is too iconic and if they want to try it, they have to leave it be. Too many runs. Also – I’m thinking he left off the best verse (opening verse – Imagine there’s no heaven) – because he’s a mormon. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone in Idol start a song in the middle.

  • lg

    Once again David H proved his mettle by brilliantly arranging a classic to suit his style. It was absolute perfection.

    Robbie Carrico did a fair job on “Hot Blooded”, but he still lacks that fire. Not sold on him as a rocker. David Cook came across as the true rocker last nite.

    Sidenote, my 17 year old daughter watched for the first time last night. She likes Archuleta the best. She couldn’t get over how handsome Danny N is :) I agree, he’s plum purty, lol.

    ETA: Chikezie! Now that’s the way it’s done baby.

  • MaryS-NJ

    First week of semis last season, I recall Simon saying Kiki was the one to beat. I remember thinking Melinda was better than Kiki and that SHE was the one to beat. Second week of the semis Melinda did My Funny Valentine and PWNED everyone on the stage. Both of them advanced to the top 10 but neither won, but nobody was pimped until the finals and then it was Jordin, (Simon never seemed too convinced).

    Season 5, despite my firm membership in the Soul Patrol, I could see the mostly unseen and underpimped Elliott surprising everyone based on his vocals in the semis. He did.

    This season I have same feeling about David Hernandez. I thought he was one to watch in Hollywood. I don’t think he can win it (the American Idol for season 7 hath been foretold) but he will go much further than the judges expect. David’s performance was sexy and his vocals were great.

    I have mixed feelings about David Archuleta. He’s got a GREAT voice, although he sounds a little like Peter Brady (“It’s time to change…”) in a couple places. He is adorable. He’s got a crazy number tween/teen fangirls voting for him. My daughter was petting the TV screen when he sang yesterday, heh.

    If he wins, I won’t be heartbroken, but he’s not my cup of tea personally. He’s there because High School Musical and Hannah Montana are the biggest thing right now for album sales. The Disney demographic: Moms and Grannys who will buy his clean, wholesome pop music for the kids, and the kids who clamor for him.

    I think Jordin was the PTB’s first attempt to stake a claim in the land of Disney. The problem was (I think) last season saw declining ratings in all demographics, especially the very same ones who buy Disney products. She didn’t have the Disneyesque buildup via a television vehicle. There was no focus on her background and that all led to there being insufficient emotional investment by the customers. Now? I hear Jordin’s single ALL THE TIME in Radio Disney, which we have on in the car for our daughter. That’s probably why the 19Alphabet people are co-branding and cross marketing a new American Idol attraction at Disney World and why David A came of age at EXACTLY the right time. But I digress…

    Chikesie was better this week. I think he’ll survive to the top 12 because he’s the only black male r&b singer in the group.

    Micheal Johns was a bit better at the start and fell apart as he went. Listening to him without being able to watch it wasn’t as bad, but he looked extremely uncomfortable up there, which was odd. He seems to have a lot of fans (I’m not one) and should survive an off week. I recall Taylor’s performance week 2 of the semis was very ‘meh’.

    I liked the acoustic portions of Jason Castro’s performance best but when the band kicked in it was overpowering. It’s a disco song, and not really something I would have picked for a singing competition. That said, I don’t know what songs they had to choose from… Still, he’s got something special and should make it to the top 12.

    Luke was better this week. He still was overshadowed vocally by the other guys. Purty as he is, and he IS purty, I think he’s gone this week or next. He may go home this week.

    David Cook surprised me. I haven’t liked him much this season, but I (a) like word nerds, and (b) think he looked more comfortable rockin’ with the guitar. It was an excellent song choice.

    I’m not feeling it with Robbie. He’s a poser, trying to hard to be a rawker. His performance was kareoke. He may go home this week.

    Jason Y – I was hoping he’d knock it out of the park. I want to support the underdog, but he didn’t do anything to distinguish himself. He’s got a nice voice, but he’s an also ran, sadly. I think he goes home.

    Danny – I get a huge kick out of this kid. First, he’s one of the prettiest boys I recall on the show. He got a nice enough voice and he’s such an adorable, sassy little sprite. That personality (and some folks at VFTW) will keep him around for a good long time. I’ll look forward to it. I thought his performance was a little wobbly but it showed a very different side of him and I think that works for him.

    All that being said…

    I keep thinking about Elliott, Taylor, Chris and what they could do with these songs. Yes, I am a S5 fan and so far no one has compared, period.

    Me too, Judy. I don’t think I’ll ever get season 5 out of my system.

    Dov –

    If anybody hears from Josiah, remember that heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s mine and you canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t have him

    You crack me up! but listen up: I love Josiah too. Not that way, but in a MOTHERLY way (and I appreciate his music a lot). I will be keeping my eye on you buddy. ;)

    Sarah,

    I joked last night that I like gay strippers (well, I do, heh) but I like David Hernandez regardless of his… previous performing experience and couldn’t care less about his private life. None of my business – I just like hearing him sing.

    See you round the ‘hood later, folks!

  • LoveU

    Speaking of copy-catting, did anyone else feel that Jason Y. was trying to channel Taylor by 1) singing Doobie Brothers 2) mentioning how he was trying sing with heart and soul (nice reference to Taylor’s book) and 3) doing the weird hand motion thing to the band at the end? I don’t know how to explain it, but his smile creeped me out. Honestly, I thought he should be singing on a cruise ship somewhere.

    I think Danny is a hoot.

    David H. was really pretty good, especially in the latter half of the song. And speaking of George Michael, who here knows George Michael’s version of that song? It is great. George Michael is a seriously underrated singer, and David H., while good, couldn’t quite measure up to that version.

    I do not get David Cook at all. I truly cannot stand him, and the comments to Simon didn’t help one bit.

    Michael Johns was terrible. Luke is a cutie. Robbie is forgettable. Jason Castro has beautiful skin but I want to pour a whole bottle of shampoo on him. I think it was nice how he took that Andy Gibb song and made it more current–he should have gotten some credit for that.

    Going Home: Jason Y. and David C.

  • Kylene

    My first log-in of the season is to have my prayers for Jason Castro documented, lol. Those eyes are mesmerizing, and right now, he’s the only one I’m invested in. Sure, David’s cute, but like others have said – he’s AI’s ticket to the next wave of “boybands”. Remember *NSYNC? Remember NKOTB? Well, kids, it’s been ten years…these things come in waves, and the Jonas Brothers are starting it up again.

    I’ve got nothing against David A., but Jason’s the only one I’ll really miss if he gets the boot on Thursday.

    And Tara, I literally LOL’d a few posts back when you quoted the Brittnam twin.

  • Little Boy Blue

    RE: Jason Castro – à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“I Just Want to Be Your Everythingà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  by Bee Gees

    Somebody might have corrected this already, but I believe it was their late brother ( the youngest one ), Andy Gibb who did the song ( he never actually “joined” the Bee Gees, although technically, he is a BG — Brother Gibb ).

  • laura11383

    I can see David A’s talent… I’m just not feeling him. He’s being so force-fed down our throats. Plus, I don’t think he totally connects with what he’s singing, though I could be wrong about that. Still, I just can’t make myself want him to win…

    Course, that would describe this whole season for me thus far. No one’s stepped out and really made me want to vote for them. I liked David H last night; I liked Brooke & Kristy Lee from their auditions. But no one has really blown me away yet. Sad.

  • iloveoliver

    Just thought I would post a link to Imagine by John Lennon. This is the way the song should be song………subtle, pure and simple.

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEOkxRLzBf0&feature=related

    And as you can hear it is only the piano you hear first and no guitar and no runs.

    Didn’t like it, what he did with the song but he can sing.

  • BigNLiddle
  • janerazor

    That was some tongue-bath they gave David A. last night. Heck, they tongue-bathed him, rubbed fine oils into his skin, and swaddled him in 500-count egyptian cotton sheets. Yes, his performance was good, but why was that not called cabaret or theatrical?

    Michael Johns sounded bad. Pitch was rank; rhythm was awkward, like he was half a beat off. He’s built up enough goodwill to sail on to next week though.

    Sheesh, AI, why you gotta break my spirit like that? I loved Jason C.’s performance. He’s the only one I could listen to over and over again.

    I don’t know if that’s a wig Robbie is wearing, but something is up with his hair. Maybe they ratted Scarnato’s old extensions and snapped them to Robbie’s head.

  • primeminister

    I’ve been listening to the mp3 of Jason Castro’s performance and I have to say that while he doesn’t have a great voice by Idol’s standards, he has an awesome recording voice. He sounds current, for a lack of a better word, and definitely could be a credible artist in today’s market. You can listen and download the mp3 at rickey’s.

    http://www.rickey.org/?p=7173

  • http://myspace.com/girlgeek mj

    All those people who claim that David A. didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t just kill that song, either by proclaiming him to be part of the Mickey Mouse Club or how he didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t know how to interpret the song- i think its sad that you just canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t acknowledge his talent *coughs* Sarah *coughs* Nostradamas

    DO NOT CALL OUT POSTERS LIKE THIS OR YOU WILL BE BANNED.

    Everyone has an opinion and is entitled to it. Any sort of baiting, or attempts to start a fan war will get you banned. This ain’t IDF.

    Dukester, you have One more chance.

  • Abilymom

    Loved David A. last night. Whether you like him or not, his vocals were spot on.

    David C., Jacuzzi, and David H. all had good nights as well, IMO.

    The Robbie wig-gate is hilarious. I went back and watched his performance again. It’s so glaringly obvious that I’m angry at myself for not noticing it.

    Maybe he can share it with David C. so he won’t have the do the comb-over anymore. ;)

  • http://myspace.com/girlgeek mj

    I got a couple of the artists wrong…I fixed it…

  • JJ

    I am very sad for my dearest Michael, he really sucked last night.

    Luke looked hot as ever, but did he actually sing something?? I was too busy drooling to notice.

    I am giving it one more week, but I think I am truly starting to hate David Archuleta. NO ONE is that cute. He can sing, but he is way over hyped. He is good, he is not that good. He is just too polished. I like the bad boys.

  • http://occasionaldiscourse.blogspot.com/ Derrick

    OMG! OMG! OMG!

    David A is ONLY 17! It’s amazing – he’s the first teenager they have had who can sing, let alone maybe win actually… What? Last year’s winner was ONLY 17 too? Oh, then why am I so excited?

    I know that the dude-boy can sing, but honestly, must it be so overdone…

  • http://www.myspace.com/swood1104 Sarah

    LOL Derrick. And a teenaged runner up one year too! OMG. Amazing.

    Great post. LOL.

  • moody

    If poor Luke goes home this week, at least he got some nice publicity in for Chapter 6 on national teevee. I hope they saved his spot for him. ;)

    I got a kick out of the guys grooving to Jason Castro’s performance. David H. and Luke were especially into it.

  • http://steve-o-meter.com steve-o-meter

    Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve been listening to the mp3 of Jason Castroà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s performance and I have to say that while he doesnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t have a great voice by Idolà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s standards, he has an awesome recording voice. He sounds current, for a lack of a better word, and definitely could be a credible artist in todayà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s market.

    I totally and completely agree….I am, undeniably…..A DredHead

    *swoon*

  • http://myspace.com/saltwatercures pj

    Nice recap, MJ. I didn’t pick up on the real reason Little David (can we call him little d?) didn’t sing the first verse of Imagine. Too bad he didn’t come clean when asked about it.

  • Kirsten

    (can we call him little d?)

    I believe that phrase is already trademarked.

    He seems more like a Little Davie to me anyway. I wonder where Goliath is?

  • Karen

    MJ, your recaps are always spot on. Thanks for all your effort.

  • primeminister

    I always look forward to your recaps. Thanks!

  • http://timbond.cnc.net tim-in-augusta

    I am so glad SOMEONE has some sense about Archie-boy. Yes, he can sing and yes, he’s cute and all that – but c’mon folks, he’s not THAT good.

    Here’s what I thought of the whole night: http://timbond.livejournal.com/170967.html

    I found myself very tired of the show last night. We’ll see if I stick with it all season. Worse than so-so singing is the totally inconsistent remarks from the judges.

  • bambambam

    Hm. I just wish David A. had credited the style and interpretation of “Imagine” to Yolanda Adams, the way Daughtry eventually credited the style of “I Walk the Line” to Live and Elliott credited — with great joy — “A Song For You” to Donny Hathaway.

    Randy seemed to be playing stupid by pretending that David’s version was so brilliant when he himself has probably heard 20 gospel acts sing the song in that manner.

    Making it his? Um, making it Yolanda Adams’s.

  • Sparkles

    So robbie wears wigs. hah.

    I thought so. That just shows what a poser he really is. Just go chrome dome already like little D. Jason C better not go before this guy.

  • http://steve-o-meter.com steve-o-meter

    Wouldn’t it be hilarious if Robbie gets voted off this week….and after his sing-off…he’d bow and pull his wig off?

    I’d soooo love that.

  • beesims

    The LA Times article posted in the headline thread mentions that David A’s version of “Imagine” sounds suspiciously like Eva Cassidy’s. Take a listen and I think you will agree:

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

  • MaryS-NJ

    The LA Times article posted in the headline thread mentions that David Aà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s version of à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Imagineà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  sounds suspiciously like Eva Cassidyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s. Take a listen and I think you will agree:

    That’s it! I knew I’d heard it somewhere before. Katharine “borrowed” a bit from her in season 5 (SOTR). Eva had a flare for interpretation. I’m not going to hold my breath waiting for the PTB to mention they used others’ arrangements of these songs.

  • xoxoyc

    Actually Katharine’s version was more borrowed from Jane Monheit.

    But yeah what David A. did with Imagine was nothing really that original.

  • cricket

    I cannot see people actually paying good money to see Danny the diva in concert. IMO he is extremely annoying and thinks that he’s better than he actually is. I hope he goes , the sooner the better.
    I fear that Jason , Robbie or Luke will go home when Danny boy was absolutely awful IMO.

  • hcpoirot

    What can we say about David A? Either you loveeee him or hate him cause of the pimping. :D

    But you had to admit it, after 2 weeks, he is pretty consistent with his singing. So if he win the AI7 (with huge pimping) I will not be pissed of, cause I haven,t see someone really blow me away like Taylor or Elliot did in Season 5 and sometimes Kat and Chris too.

    But it still only weeks 2 of the competition, someone maybe will step up and blowing every people next week beside David A. Lets wait and see.

    So I don’t think season 7 is the best season ever like Ryan said so many time. But the male top 10 is better than season 6 male top 10 for sure.

  • LakesideUK

    David A. can definitely sing but that very audible inhalation between phrases bugs me to distraction. Maybe he can’t help it because of his past vocal cord troubles – I don’t know – but as a listener I’m afraid I find it immensely annoying. He’s like a singing Darth Vader. Yikes.

    I also hated that version of Imagine with the white heat of a thousand suns. Killed the melody, killed the message. No thanks.

    David H. was probably the one I enjoyed most this week. Aside from the cracked note right at the end I thought the vocal was excellent and he really put the lyrics across well. David Cook and Chikezie also impressed me a good deal, but Danny disappointed me. I thought he was fab and fun last week but this week I found him boring and lifeless. If he survives I hope he gets a more interesting song next week.