Top 8 iTunes Performance Review – Just Say No to Strings

Agree re Adam’s studio recording. There aren’t enough superlatives to describe the sublimeness (is that a word?) that is his Mad World.

Just a beautifully rendered song, with vocal nuances that are ethereal and well, just gorgeous.

As someone said in another thread, if you are going to plunk down just $0.99 on an iTunes download this season, Adamà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s version of Mad World is the one to buy.

I have played Adams over and over and over at work, haunting and beautiful – you took the words right out of my mouth.

You know this is awesome when one of my friends, who just doesn’t get Adam, gives him his props on this song.

Of all of Allison’s studio tracks, this one may be her best vocal, but its definately the worse arraignment. More and more I’m thinking the musical side of the show has gone to the crapper. They can replace Ricky and the Band next season and easily improve the show 100% from this year.

Loving Adam’s “Mad World”.

His voice is nicely front and centre in the mix and that lets you really appreciate how he can shape a lyric.

He gives value to words in a way that you just don’t hear all that often. I was a little concerned before the live shows started whether he might be a case of “you can take the boy out of the theatre but you can’t take the theatre out of the boy!” – nothing kills a pop song quicker for me than hearing it done in that o-ver e-nun-ci-at-ed way that characterises musical theatre, but thankfully I do not hear that from him. All I hear is beauty and clarity of expression. And I love it.

I actually prefer Adam’s live performance of Mad World because of the slight waver in his voice there – I don’t like the song quite so smoothed over and pretty but maybe because I’m just so used to the Gary Jules version.

I bought Anoop’s too and definitely agree about the icky strings. If you just focus on him, it’s a beautiful vocal. I haven’t listened to the others yet.

Loved Adam’s Mad World and Matt’s PTL the best. I preferred Allison’s live performance. Some of her emotion was lost in the studio version.

I’ve posted a link to the youtube clip of Adam’s studio recording on a non-AI related forum that I’m a member of here in the UK and other members are falling over with praise for it .. many who don’t watch AI are now going to tune in next week off the back of hearing it and are enquiring as to who he is and can I post links to his other performances.

It’s hauntingly beautiful

My favorite this week is Anoop’s “True Colors.” I like Matt too, and thought he sounded like Jason Mraz singing “Geek in the Pink”–it’s the same type of rhythmic feel.

My only regret is getting Gokey’s “Stand By Me.” I liked the song, so I thought I’d give it a listen…no. Just no. It was HORRIBLE!

Thought I’d give Adam’s recording a shot too, but his voice is just to high for my taste.

I actually prefer Adamà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s live performance of Mad World because of the slight waver in his voice there – I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t like the song quite so smoothed over and pretty but maybe because Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m just so used to the Gary Jules version.

I agree that the live version has that slight cracking that adds to the vulnerability of the song which is slightly lost in the studio recording. I love the breathyness that Adam has when he sings ballads and I’m pleased that they haven’t edited all of that out in the studio recording … I like to hear him breath (that sounds a bit creepy and stalkerish but I know what I mean …lol)

I purchased downloads of Allison and Adam this week. I am absolutely in love with Adam’s version of Mad World. :smiley2_tb:

I like Adam, Allison and Matt. But I agree that the live versions were better, except for Adam because I like a longer, more articulated Mad World.

I thought Adam’s recording was well worth the 99 cents and I love Allison’s vocals so I bought hers too.

I checked them all out on youtube before a bunch were removed and I like Adams, Allisons and Matts the most. Oh Kris I wanted to love yours, I still love you but not your song choice this week.

I had the day off from work today, and I played Mad World so many times that I’m halfway expecting my dog to start humming it. I love that song anyway, and Adam’s interpretation is absolutely stunning.

Adam’s voice is so beautiful on that recording. It’s really is ethereal and haunting. I don’t know what else to say except I need a thesaurus to come up with more adjectives to describe it.

Thanks MJ! Love hearing your views of the studios.

Adam’s is gorgeous, and I agree, haunting.

The only other one I would consider downloading this week would be Allison. And, I so adore Bonnie Raitt’s version that I can’t bring myself to do it…yet… (I’m a sucker for the end of the season rush. LOL)

Yup, Adam’s is definitely the best. I’ve played it over and over, and won’t be sick of it anytime soon. So beautiful and moving. I loved Matt the other night but I just don’t think I can get past the idea of having “Part Time Lover” on my iPod. Kevin C. definitely ruined that song for me. Forever.

edit: that belongs in the headlines thread

I pre-ordered Adam’s the night of the show & have not stopped listening to it since the moment it was available to download. Best song this year.

Bought Adam’s and Anoop’s. Love them both but I agree I would have liked Anoop’s better without all the extras, but his vocals are beautiful. Adam’s is… is… is just awesome. May be one of the best recordings ever from Idol.

I bought my first track this week! Adam’s “Mad World” is the first song I’ve been moved to download all season. I love it.

Bought Anoop’s True Colors, such wonderful vocals

Adam’s Mad World = Stunningly, hauntingly beautiful.
He can definitely relate to this song, and he expresses it wonderfully with his voice.
Best recording so far this season.

The others did not impress me very much.

I bought Adam’s last night and have had it on repeat in my commute today along with the live version. There are nuances in both that I love.

I actually prefer Adamà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s live performance of Mad World because of the slight waver in his voice there

I know what you mean. I’m obsessed with his vibrato on “nervous” in the live recording over the iTunes.

Haven’t bought anyone else’s yet. I think I’ll try Allison’s next.

Haunting and beautiful and two great words to describe Adams recording of Mad World. I can’t stop listening to it…I wonder if there is something subliminal in the recording…I fell like Ive been hypnotized.

soccerboi, i think you’re on to something, definitely hypnotic!

Haunting and beautiful and two great words to describe Adams recording of Mad World. I canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t stop listening to ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦I wonder if there is something subliminal in the recordingà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦I fell like Ive been hypnotized.

Has anyone tried playing it backwards to see if there’s a hidden message?

Mad World is definitely addictive. Adam’s interpretive and phrasing skills are impeccable. And such a simple, yet profound lyric. I thought Ring of Fire was the most brilliant AI performance I had ever heard … until this.

I’m thinking of gifting it to Michael Johns so he can see how Adam plays “in the real world.” *rolleyes*

My favorite this week is Anoopà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“True Colors.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ 

Thought Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢d give Adamà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s recording a shot too, but his voice is just to high for my taste.

This.
I love Anoop’s studio. I didn’t mind the extra stuff, but his vocals were wonderful:)

I’ve listened to the others but only bought Adam. This is a remarkable performance, Both the live one and the studio recording. This kid is extraordinarily talented.
This performance alone makes Adam worthy to win AI this year. As nice/pretty/beautiful voices the other contestants have, nobody can touch this.
Oh, and Michael Johns, STFU. He spent a year whining about getting booted. Wasn’t going to be a soul type singer. He thinks Adam doesn’t translate to the recording world. Whatever.

He thinks Adam doesnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t translate to the recording world. Whatever.

Well, he is entitled to his own opinion which I tend to agree with. I’ve heard the “Mad World” vocals which I admit are beautiful; however, the key is when he has to translate a Diane Warren or Kara DioGuardi song as his own. I still believe Adam will be a one album wonder. I don’t see a long recording career for him. YMMV.

I bought my first track this week! Adamà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Mad Worldà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  is the first song Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve been moved to download all season. I love it.

Me too! I swore I wouldn’t do it this year. But, Adam apparently convinced me otherwise.

I bought Adam’s recording and then I finally bought all his recordings from previous weeks. They are very good. I think some are even better than the live (e.g. Ring of Fire).
Truth is, we don’t know whether this guy will be an amazing recording artist. There’s not way we can predict the future. But based on what he has done so far on Idol, is he the most entitled to win this thing and at least get a shot at making a great album? Oh yeah.

I listened to them all and only bought Matt’s. The other’s were just not as good IMO. I always love Matt’s studio versions (as well as his live performances). His vocals are just flawless. He has such a current cool vibe about him.

I’m trying real hard to understand why everyone loves Adam so much but I just can’t tolerate his voice. It’s like he is always singing in falsetto. I love falsetto but not for an entire song.

Anoop’s studio versions are just very boring to me.

I normally like Kris versions okay enough but this week he definetly picked the wrong song.

Allison is pretty much similar to me as Adam in that her voice is just too deep for a women’s voice whereas Adam’s sounds kind of feminine.

Lil for me is just not that great of a singer so I really don’t have much to say about her.

Scott’s was typical Scott. Very underwhelming.

I hated Danny’s arrangement of Stand By Me both live and recorded.

This season is strange because I normally like more than one Idol but this year that doesn’t hold true. Matt is the only contestant this season that I feel a connection to.

Well, he is entitled to his own opinion which I tend to agree with. Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve heard the à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Mad Worldà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  vocals which I admit are beautiful; however, the key is when he has to translate a Diane Warren or Kara DioGuardi song as his own. I still believe Adam will be a one album wonder. I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t see a long recording career for him. YMMV.

Why would Adam ever have to do a Diane Warren song or a Kara DioGuardi song, he is a songwriter first of all and second, even if he did have to sing one of those women’s songs, he would be fantastic. He has the vocals to sing anyone’s music. You should really check out his pre-idol youtube stuff before making that statement. Just saying…..

Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m trying real hard to understand why everyone loves Adam so much but I just canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t tolerate his voice. Ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s like he is always singing in falsetto. I love falsetto but not for an entire song.

I totally understad that Adam’s voice isn’t to everyone’s taste but I think a lot of people think he’s singing in falsetto though most of his ballad songs when he’s acually singing in his normal chest and head voice and only occasionally uses his falsetto .. he has a naturally high voice and only appeared to use his falsetto at the very end of the live version of Mad World.

I couldn’t wait to download Mad World off Itunes! Adam’s version is slightly different than Gary Jules’ version but just as amazing.

I could hear Adam’s Mad World as the music for an interpretative dance number from So You Think You Can Dance. I wouldn’t be surprised if that did happen later this summer when the new season starts.

Why would Adam ever have to do a Diane Warren song or a Kara DioGuardi song, he is a songwriter first of all and second, even if he did have to sing one of those womenà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s songs, he would be fantastic. He has the vocals to sing anyoneà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s music. You should really check out his pre-idol youtube stuff before making that statement. Just sayingà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦..

Look, I know you are an Adam fan and yes I have seen his videos, but I’m not sure he has longevity as a recording artist. He’ll make albums, but I truly believe he needs a big stage where he can perform every night. He’s an amazing performer, but the word is “performer.”

Look, I know you are an Adam fan and yes I have seen his videos, but Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m not sure he has longevity as a recording artist. Heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ll make albums, but I truly believe he needs a big stage where he can perform every night. Heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s an amazing performer, but the word is à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“performer.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ 

Yep, this is where I am too… he is truly an amazing performer… recording artist? Probably not for me.

I agree about too much background vocals and instruments on Anoop’s track. His beautiful voice is enough to carry the song. Either way, I’m still playing it constantly.

I LOVED Anoop’s studio version of “True colors”….he has a beautiful voice and it is so smooth I just want to melt….

I actually like Adam better live than on these studio versions….

After that I liked Allison’s and actually liked Matt’s even though I did not enjoy his live performance at all….

This is one of the most beautiful descriptions I’ve read of Adam’s live performance (credit to dithers at TWoP):

“Adam’s performance last night was etheral and otherworldly and mesmerizing . . . . His voice sounded so clear like a series of perfect bell chimes and his phrasing was so precise and delicate that the lyrics sort of floated away from him. The song is still echoing in my head.”

“Mad World”….Hypnotic, haunting and ethereal indeed! I’ve been playing Adam’s and Gary Jules’s versions of it back to back all day. It’s such a great song to begin with, especially this arrangement, and Adam’s voice gives it an other-worldly feel. It’s my favorite studio song so far this season. In fact, my 19-year old younger brother who is way too “hip” for idol heard it and asked me to upload it to his iPod, which was definitely a first!

Bought Adam’s, Allison’s and Scott’s tracks (Scott’s for the last time :down_tb: :down_tb: )

Disappointed in Allison’s this week. The vocals were alright, but they didn’t have the subtlety of Bonnie Raitt’s. They just seemed off. Still love ya, girlfriend.

Adam….definitely a keeper. Nothing over-the-top or crazy…just beautiful vocals. My only regret…I probably should have waited until after the finale to download. That way, they could possibly count towards the Billboard rankings.

Sweet Scott (sniffle, sniffle)….Another good solid performance (although I’m probably prejudiced. :wub_tb: ) Not my favorite (although it probably is because I’ll think of this as the song that sent him home.) I think, with everyone of his performances, his studio versions are better than his performance versions.

Sweet Scott (sniffle, sniffle)à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.

Ladybug – My daughter downloaded every single one of his songs… bless her heart.

Because it was questioned upthread, here are comments about Adam’s vocal skills from the Masterclass Lady, Rosanne Simunovic :

“Many of my readers have asked me if you (Adam) sing with head voice, falsetto and/or if you incorporate chest voice into the mix. Yes – readers – he does all of that, but mainly, as in tonightà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s performance, he sings in full head voice during the softer sections of the song and when the louder dynamics à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“kick inà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ , so does his diaphragm, creating a stellar head/chest mix.

How I loved and appreciated your phenomenal ability to phrase and mold your melodic line, adding nuance and inflection with impeccable style and finesse! I had goosebumps here, Adam, and it wasnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t because there is yet another ton of snow outside my door. It is all because of you and your impeccable artistry.”

http://www.masterclasslady.com

Matt’s studio recording as usual is amazing
I get chills just listening to his voice. He is like, ready for radio.

I can’t wait to see what happens with his career, no matter what place he ends in this competition. Although I hope he continues to climb. To quote Kara: He really is soooo talented.

Mattà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s studio recording as usual is amazing

ITA ITA!!!! Love his studio recordings!

I love Matt’s recording. It’s just as great as his performance, IMO. I love how he ends it. He is so totally ready for radio, no doubt. So, yes, I agree with you, maracaibo wholeheartedly. (:

I didn’t buy any of the singles this week. Kris is my fave but I do not want ASWTDID in any form. Even the hawtness can’t save that 80′s mess.

I’m absolutely loving Anoop’s smooth vocals on True Colors. Like buttah!

^^
agree!

I actually loved Adam’s Live performance a little better. Something about watching Adam’s “Mad Live” is like watching something ethereal amd mystical.

I must have watched that over and over.

“True Colors” is a gorgeous vocal.

It’ll be sad when Anoop eventually leaves. His studio stuff is awesome.

I agree MJ. I think that this season the band/arrangements are intruding into the singers voices.

Sorry, but we want to hear the singers, not the band.

So, I actually downloaded Matt’s song this week, because I liked his performance on the show for once. Hee! Anyway… as some people have pointed out in the past, I thought that recorded, there are times when he really sounds like Chris Richardson from season 6. I guess his other recordings must be better, because while I thought this one was fine, I wasn’t “OMG!AMAZING!YAY!” about it. But I’m glad I bought it, because his vocals sound quite good, and this is one of the arrangements that I actually liked. Oh, and I liked the scatting at the end. That was sweet.

I also got Allison’s, Anoop’s, and Adam’s this week.

MJ, I couldn’t figure out what it was about Anoop’s that was bugging me, but I think you hit the nail on the head. A stripped down arrangement on the recording would have served him better. His vocals are very nice though.

I also prefer Allison’s live performance to the recorded version of “I Can’t Make You Love Me.” I’m still not quite sure what it is about this recording that doesn’t quite cut it for me. It’s definitely not her vocals. I guess it’s the arrangement.

I flove Adam’s. I haven’t loved every single one of his downloads (even though I’ve bought all of them anyway, sigh.), but this one? Definitely worth my dollar. And definitely the best I’ve downloaded all season. I’ve listened to this one about 10 times as much as I’ve listened to any of the others that I got this week. It’s just… mesmerizing, I think. And beautiful. I really love this arrangement (thank you Gary Jules!!) because the pain and loneliness in the lyrics really comes through, if the artist really has that emotional connection to the lyrics. So yeah… I’m really curious what this particular download is selling. I wish we had the tools we had last year to find out. Oh well.

Anyway, I’m not going to make any predictions about where Adam is going to end up in the music industry. However, I’m also not going to pigeon-hole him as ONLY a stage performer, as these studio recordings clearly show that he has vocal chops that translate and “performer” is not the only “key word” here. He’s clearly a talented vocalist as well. Just because he can’t necessarily be classified in a set genre doesn’t mean that there is no place for him as a recording artist. Of course, JMO.

Oh yes – and Kris, dear, I heart you, but I couldn’t bring myself to buy your track this week. I hated that arrangement. Sorry.

I’ll have to decide whether or not to buy something this week. I’ll may/probably get Adam’s. The more I watch/listen…just wow! I heard a snippet on idolatry and it is so haunting it just stays right with me.

I listened to Adam’s and Kris’s on utube last night. Kris just did not score at all this week. Sorry Kris. I’m looking forward to what you’re going to bring next week!!! You go boy!!!

I’m sorry to hear that Matt’s studio wasn’t as good as his performance. Same with Allison.

If the number of ITunes ratings Adam is getting compared to the others is any indication, he’s smoking them ALL. I think he’s selling very well on ITunes. And if people are plunking down their cash for that, then they’ll buy an Adam album.

No one can predict the future, but in my humble opinion Adam Lambert is destined to be a great recording artist. Obviously we can’t pigeon hole him, thank God, because he has shown that he can do many different genres (country…not so much…gee I like his Dad!).

Many, many artists do not depend on their songs ever hitting radio (the graveyard for the singer wannabes, IMHO). My favorite group, Pink Floyd, never released a single after their first couple of tries. They felt that their music was much better heard as an entire ensemble…and 40 years later their albums still are selling. And no one has ever really classified their genre so why do we need to put Adam in a box.

Also, today’s artists DO NOT make their money off of album sales. Their gravy comes from the live performances…that’s why good artists are on the road so much. And as a performer Adam definitely has all the tools. If Mad World is any indication he will appeal to the masses. He’s got a good start going if you read the youtube comments. And I find it interesting that the “Adam hate” is disipating rapidly. Most people aren’t really concerned with his personal life anymore. They just love to hear him sing.

I think I personally must hold the record for playing Adam’s songs. Mad World has been on constant repeat since Idol wrapped on Tuesday night…I haven’t even listened to The Masters Golf Tourney because it interferes with my enjoyment of this song. Have a good evening all.

I love Adam’s so much. I haven’t been this head-over-heels for a song in a while, but I haven’t been able to stop listening to Mad World. The piano is beautiful, the melody is beautiful, the lyrics are beautiful, and his voice is beautiful. It’s just absolutely perfect.
I didn’t know this song before this so I’m glad Adam introduced me to it. Part of why I like to watch AI is so I can discover amazing music I haven’t noticed before (Switchfoot and Collective Soul via Cookie, now Mad World via Adam).
I can really relate to this entire song, but especially the lyric “I went to school and I was very nervous, no one knew me”. I’m 16 and was home-schooled my whole life until this year when I went to high school and it was my first day of school, ever. I had no friends my age that lived in my state, so I knew no one there and it was scary, sometimes I still feel like no one really knows me, but things are better now. My school is wonderful.

It’s just amazing. I can’t describe how great I think it is.

I downloaded Kris Allen’s All She Has to Do is Dance and thought it was much better in the studio version. Better sound. It is a bit overproduced, but I like it.

I have to say, I agree about Adam insofar that I think however good one of his vocal performances is, it’s better live; I’m only buying these studio versions because they’re longer and that week-long drought between performances is murder on my need for instant gratification. But that’s not because his singles aren’t awesome, it’s because his stage presence is pretty killer, so you’d kind of expect that however good his vocal is, it’s going to be better with that behind it.

Given what’s going on in the music industry lately, though, it does not seem like a bad time to be an artist that people are going to want to see live. The last few weeks he’s proven he has the technical chops to sing whatever the hell he’s thrown, and I don’t get the sense (unlike with DCook) that he needs or particularly wants the “cred” of writing his own music. Why not set him up with a bunch of awesome high-energy singles and make the real money on the tour? It at least seems like a potential route to me.

Just reading some of the comments. There sure is a lot of love for Adam on this page. I like him some weeks, but really did not like Mad World. It just seemed still way too fake or forced emotional. I don’t really get him. I prefer the studio versions of his songs because it just seems way too much theatrics in person. Sorry guys. I am definitely in the minority, but I didn’t like the song and thought it was way over rated. He is interesting though and I do think he is going to be our next American Idol. Just not sure that I would ever buy one of his CDs or go to see him in concert. We’ll see. I did download one of his songs.
‘

I didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t like the song and thought it was way over rated.

I’m with you. I don’t get it. Why was this so highly praised????

Someone at IDF made a handy dandy little graph charting the contestants ITunes ratings (minus Lil)

http://i42.tinypic.com/eb4kk3.png

Green Day, Panic at the Disco, etc. have a sense of the theatrical that is right up Adam’s alley and they have had no problem selling.

What I like best about Adam so far is his knack for finding gorgeous ballads that really say something and then illuminating them in that kind of pure, generous, assured, interesting, arresting way that all real artists have.

Cakeandcookies, thanks for sharing your story. I imagine you must really be able to relate to those lyrics. Though I think a lot of people can relate just to the general feeling of being scared and alone. From what I’ve been hearing and reading, this song just seems to hit people on such a personal level. It’s very intimate and so beautifully rendered.

I am really so interested to see what he comes up with post-Idol.

I liked the percussion instrument use in Mad World (the subtle wind sounds, chimes, etc.) Another thing I loved was how mellow it is. I find I always like mellow tunes. When I listen to it, I have to listen to it by itself on repeat without other music coming in behind it. The song casts a spell if you will and another tune breaking in right behind it breaks the spell. I guess I’m with the group that has fallen under the trance, lol

Shari, the first time, on the show, I wasn’t sure what I thought of Mad World. I watched a second time and was amazed at how hauntingly beautiful it was. I’m not sure if I’ll download it yet. I most likely will.

I listened to both Adam and Kris on utube (studio versions) and Mad World was again beautiful. Kris’s phrasing this week was just a little strange to me, even in the studio version. His vocals are always right on and probably my favorite of this season, but the phrasing of the song just seemed off to me. JMO. I still really, really, really like Kris a great deal!!!!

In addition, regarding some peeps posts re: Adam’s ability to make a post idol album (and this is obviously jmo), I would maybe download some ballads because I’ve liked his ballads so far. Even though I enjoy watching him on the show, I’m not so sure I’d buy an entire album by him. I’m ‘wondering’ just what type of album he would put out, (tm Michael Johns). If/when he wins and he does well, I’ll be happy for him.

Having said that, I would readily buy an entire album with Kris’s voice on it. Perhaps the same with Allison, maybe with Matt. However, I do not see myself buying an entire album by anyone else this season.

ETA: a grammatical and wd change.

I think that if Adam might sell well if he goes the One Republic/The Fray/Coldplay ballady pop/easy-rock style, but his greatest strength is his ballads. I can’t see a lot of people buying a record with screechy Aerosmith wannabe tracks. His studio recording of Mad World does actually sound like it could be a radio hit today, if the popularity of songs like Fall For You is any indication. At any rate, if his recording pursuits don’t work out, he’ll probably get plugged to play Fiyero and other lead musical characters at the very least, and depending on his acting chops, I could see him becoming the next Jennifer Hudson. It’s pretty difficult to become a well-known musical actor, but Idina Mendzel did it, and Adam has the distinct advantage of already grabbing a lot of national screentime.

If the number of ITunes ratings Adam is getting compared to the others is any indication, heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s smoking them ALL. I think heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s selling very well on ITunes. And if people are plunking down their cash for that, then theyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ll buy an Adam album.

It’s a shame AI didn’t start doing this until AI6. I’d love to see what download numbers would’ve been like for AI1-5. Also, would be interesting to know how Mad World downloads compare to say, Cook’s Billie Jean…

^^^ (Madcap)….But with the way he seems to like to go into that high, HIGH voice stuff (or screeching as others would say) on his faster songs, I wonder if he knows that ballads are his greatest strength???

I wonder if he knows that ballads are his greatest strength???

Ballads are his greatest strength only when he is performing for a wide and varied audience.
In real life, he only has to please his fans so he can do what ever makes them happy. If you are not a fan of Adam it doesn’t matter what he will do after Idol.
I think Matt did a great job last week, but in real life I would never go to a concert to see someone like him, it just doesn’t appeal to me.
So for all the people who say they will never buy Adam’s albums or go see him in concert, it’s perfectly OK. Not everyone likes everything.

I love Matt’s studio version. The scatting at the end is amazing! This guy is so versatile with his style and a classy performer! He’s the most current contestant right now, IMO.

When some people say they donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t see what is so special about Adamà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Mad World,” I wonder how can they miss it? But then I think back to S7 and realize I never understood what was so great about Archuletaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s version of à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Imagineà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ . To this day, I still donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t see what all the fuss over Imagine was about. It was just okay for meà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦

Then I can appreciate the fact that no matter how amazing I might think Mad World is there are going to be some folks that never will.

Whether Adam can be a successful recording artist or not, imo, it depends on the type of songs they choose for his album. I don’t think he can sell songs like Play the Funky Music nowadays.

Emotional connection tends to be very relative. I showed Adam’s video to my friends who don’t really watch AI and the first thing they said was he’s really emotionally connected to the song. This is completely the opposite of what people have been saying about him.

I’m pretty sure about his career longevity, ‘cos he’s unique and it’s not easy to find a “replacement” for him.

Someone at IDF made a handy dandy little graph charting the contestants ITunes ratings (minus Lil)

No line on the chart? This does not bode well for Lil.

Mad World forced me to make my first Adam studio purchase. It’s gorgeous — the kind of song and performance that can make even non-fans & non-Idol-watchers sit up, listen, and plunk down 99 cents.

Too bad my studio-recording favorite, Matt, picked Part-Time Lover :nono_tb: :guns_tb: as his song this week. He still sounds good, got the rhythm & tempo down, love the doo-be-dooing but I think he’s been drinking the Kara-ade and is overembellishing with runs & falsetto.

My other fave is Allison but there’s something about her studio recordings that strips away her awesome Allisonosity. Why can’t they capture her properly in a studio? It’s very frustrating.

I like Adam although haven’t been tempted to download any of his iTunes. But I enjoyed his take on Mad World, so got that. I have to say that while it’s good, there was something more vulnerable and moving about the live performance (not the visual, but the voice) that is missing from the studio version. I prefer the live.

Anoop’s is really good this week as well. He’s got such a smooth voice and True Colors really shows it off. I actually disagree with you about the arrangement, MJ. I like it, and like that he added enough of a slow groove to the song to make it his own and not just a retread of the original.

I didn’t download Matt’s this week because although his performance was fine, I don’t want Part Time Lover on my iPod for any reason. Sorry Matt.

I previewed the rest, but wasn’t tempted to download any of the others this week.

I also like Adam’s live performance a little bit more than his studio performance. I bought both and they are in a row in my itunes playlist and the live performance have some edges with make it even better.

I think that if Adam might sell well if he goes the One Republic/The Fray/Coldplay ballady pop/easy-rock style, but his greatest strength is his ballads.

i really hope they are not. going this way. Imo they have the chance with Adam to create an artist, who can break in todays Top 40 and they should go for the men version of Lady Gaga or maybe even Britney, who live from catchy music and their performance skills.

Then I can appreciate the fact that no matter how amazing I might think Mad World is there are going to be some folks that never will.

Yep, exactly!

Adam’s recording is the best this week, followed by Anoop. This season has been very interesting in that once again, we are seeing that when you are different from the mainstream, you have to be much above par for people to ignore the differences and come to your side. Adam has done this with his far superior singing and performing abilities. Not so much for Anoop! His superior singing ability has been mis-construed as only par to sub-par by most, in particular by the judges and the recurring facetious conversations Ryan has with Anoop (not to mention the split second valet role they gave him in the last ford commercial and the obscuring group song bites he is given). In Anoop’s case, his difference from being an well-grounded Indian American kid wanting to be accepted for an American mainstream entertainment has not worked well to his advantage yet. I hope they give him a dignified exit w/out any rhetorics that they usually refuse to give while on the show. Adam and Anoop are the quintessential American kids, good for each of them for pursuing a dream and giving their best! In a fair world, Anoop should exit at least after Lil, Kris and Danny. Adam FTW!

zs: I agree totally with what you just said regarding Anoop. He has been totally disrespected by AI in every way. His voice is absolutely lovely. I didn’t even notice the strings on True Colors. His songs play on repeat for me most of the time.

Unique and different have not fared well in the post-American Idol world. The most successful contestants have fit firmly in commercial boxes designed for them. Maybe Adam Lambert could break that chain, maybe not.

I am a raving Adamaholic, but as for Anoop, one thing I would bet major money on is that he will end up with a recording contract. Some record company will look at the Slumdog thing and the overseas markets and hire him in a minute. He’s got a much better shot at it than, say, Lil or even Matt (sorry Mattsters, just MHO).
And I’m not even on the Anoop bus.

Reminder:

I don’t see the point in the “Why do people like so and so? I don’t get it!” type of posts.

Just accept the fact that Your Mileage May Vary and move on.

Stick to posting your opinion on the topic, please.

Look, I know you are an Adam fan and yes I have seen his videos, but Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m not sure he has longevity as a recording artist.

Like we can be sure ANY of these kids would have longevity as recording artists?

Anyway, I’m glad I’m not alone in having Adam’s “Mad World” on repeat. I actually think it sounds a little bit OneRepublic-ish.

I bought Adam’s this week, the first time I’ve plunked down my dollar this season. I flove it. Had it on repeat all afternoon yesterday, and it kept entering my dreams last night because everytime I woke up in the night, there it was.

I noticed the difference in the number of ratings too, it looks like Adam is slaying the competition in terms of Itunes sales. Adam ftw!

I absolutely cannot wait to see what he brings out this week. I hope he goes balls to the wall this time, and rocks out. Is it wrong to hope he pulls out some Guns & Roses, and out-axl’s axl? :jittery_tb:

I am a raving Adamaholic, but as for Anoop, one thing I would bet major money on is that he will end up with a recording contract. Some record company will look at the Slumdog thing and the overseas markets and hire him in a minute.

I had not thought of that, Downeast, but you probably are right, especially about the overseas market part.

Is it wrong to hope he pulls out some Guns & Roses, and out-axlà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s axl?

If so, than I don’t wanna be right.

I’m right there with you on Mad World, but I can’t listen to it too often because it makes me all snuffly and girly.

Clearly, you might enjoy this (if someone else already put this up here, I’m sorry, I get confused easily ) Personaly, I love me some good rocker wail….

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5xfjmJMk5s

I’ve been listening to the studios on youtube and love Anoop’s, will buy it for sure. I hope you’re right about Anoop getting a contract, Downeast. I have his studios and he records very well.

Adam’s is good and is the first song of his that I’m considering buying it. My only problem is that it was obviously based on Gary Jules’ version so why no mention about it? Previous idols got a lot of grief for doing the same thing. All Ryan had to say that it was based on his cover of the song. I’ve listened to both versions and love Gary’s voice so bought his instead.

I thought Allison’s sounded pretty good but am not buying it. I usually like Matt and enjoyed his live performance much more.

bean99, Adam wasn’t praised for doing an original version of the song, so imo it shouldn’t be an issue.

Also, Gary Jules’ version is not really an obscure cover that no one has really heard except his fans. It’s pretty well known. I haven’t even seen the movie “Donnie Darko”, but I’ve heard that version of the song before. And yeah, what star said too. I think that’s probably the most important factor in why he’s not getting hell about it. He didn’t get the usual “omg!most!original!evah!” comment from Randy.

So maybe it’s a good thing that Simon’s the only one who got to talk on Tuesday night? lol. That way Randy was prevented from causing any covergate scenarios. Heh.

You know, I agree that Matt’s performance was better than the studio version for the first time. As a Matt fan, I’m actually thrilled about that. I think he’s finally conquering his nerves. Hope it’s a trend that continues.

For the first time, I love Adam’s studio version enough to buy it and listen repeatedly. I always love Allison, and bought hers too, love it as usual. And Matt’s is still really good, it just that his live performance had a great extra spark, to me.

Mad World is amazing amazing amazing. My favorite studio version next to my Brooke’s studio versions last season. Adam has propelled himself to be my most favorite male contestant ever with this one. According to my iTunes, I have played it over a hundred times the past two days and I still have not grown tired of it.

I bought Anoop, Matt, Allison and Adam and I have no regret at all, I love all that AI and AL do so I might be biased on those ones.
Matt is still puzzling to me, he is the only one of the other contestants that I systematically buy the recording even tough I don’t like his performances. This week is the same, when I watch back his performance I find his falsetto still painfull to my ears, it sounds like he is trying too hard.
Anoop has an incredible smooth voice on slow tempo songs, still hopping he proves he can do something else.

bean99, Adam wasnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t praised for doing an original version of the song, so imo it shouldnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t be an issue.

I think by not mentioning it was a cover, the audience concludes that it’s original which is the same thing to me and not fair to Gary Jules, Star. I didn’t know it was a cover at first myself. I think it’s like most things regarding tptb’s treatment of Adam this season. He’s being praised for what he does deserve but also for what he doesn’t. He’s a talented guy, let him succeed or not on his own without the manipulating.

AI 8 sucks, why not give Adam the trophy and end the show ? If they would do that we would be free of the judges play acting about the save and being childish and wasting time and the 4th judge (?) really sucks. No one else stands a chance but Adam and although he is a good performer I don’t see him being long time unless he goes to the stage. He has talent and a good voice and knows how to show it. Lil needs to go…. overrated by the judges in the beginning.
I love Kris even though this week he sucked.

When would Adam have had the time to say it was Gary Jules version? Not on the night he performed for sure. Poor guy didn’t get to do anything but mouth “Thank you” to the audience and judges. Not on results night, as he looked completely surprised when Ryan started talking to him. Ryan could have said something, but didn’t. I don’t think the contestants have very much control over their on screen time.

I think by not mentioning it was a cover, the audience concludes that ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s original which is the same thing to me and not fair to Gary Jules, Star. I didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t know it was a cover at first myself. I think ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s like most things regarding tptbà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s treatment of Adam this season. Heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s being praised for what he does deserve but also for what he doesnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t. Heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s a talented guy, let him succeed or not on his own without the manipulating.

Wasn’t Danny’s cover a cover of Stand By Me? Was that mentioned by Danny or the judges?

Adam’s version of Mad World is probably more well known than the original Tears for Fears version. It’s like if someone sang Van Halen’s “Pretty Woman” version of Roy Orbison’s song. Would it need to be spelled out?

Heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s being praised for what he does deserve but also for what he doesnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t.

Look, I can see that not everyone realized that it was a cover. But seriously. What exactly did he get praised for that he didn’t deserve this week? Unless I watched a different show than everyone else, I never heard any judge claim that the arrangement was an Adam original. So, since the arrangement wasn’t his, that makes his vocal performance (which is what he was praised for) of it moot? I’m sorry, I’m not buying that.

Also, Gary Jules’ version of “Mad World” is sitting at #24 on iTunes top 100 songs (has been as high as #11), while the original version from Tears for Fears is nowhere to be found on that list (it’s at #29 on the Rock top 100, Gary Jules’ is #3). Looks to me like people either knew, know how to use iTunes, or figured it out. If they assumed… well, we all know what assuming does.

Wasnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t Dannyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s cover a cover of Stand By Me? Was that mentioned by Danny or the judges?

Yep, Ryan said it was Mickey Gilly’s version of SBM. I am also in the camp that says they should have mentioned Gary Jules since his version wasn’t the one from the year Adam was born. Credit were credit is due.

AI 8 sucks, why not give Adam the trophy and end the show ? If they would do that we would be free of the judges play acting about the save and being childish and wasting time and the 4th judge (?) really sucks. No one else stands a chance but Adam and although he is a good performer I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t see him being long time unless he goes to the stage.

I don’t want to get into a “who is better than who” war but you’re right. This season to me has been a disaster regards to production. Getting rid of Nigel didn’t make the show better. It just makes me want to watch other things. After Anoop leaves, I’m watching “Dancing With the Stars” and “The Mentalist” (thank heavens for DVRs) because this season ended for me last Tuesday.

Like we can be sure ANY of these kids would have longevity as recording artists?

In a perfect world, Allison wins this contest hands down. She’s the only one of the seven remaining I truly believe will have a prolonged recording career. Before you Adamholics jump on me, I believe Adam will be successful in show business but on stage. That’s his strength and that is his bread and butter. He should stick with it.

Yep, Ryan said it was Mickey Gillyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s version of SBM. I am also in the camp that says they should have mentioned Gary Jules since his version wasnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t the one from the year Adam was born. Credit were credit is due.

I think the judges and Ryan need to be consistant then. Either mention them all, or not at all. But I do think that Mickey Gilly’s version is very obscure compared to Adam’s cover of Mad World which topped the charts a few years back. I guess I think of it like Whitney Houston’s cover of Dolly Parton’s song, “I Will Always Love You.” That cover is so well known that Dolly usually never gets mentioned. So my view is this, if the cover of the cover is a recent chart topper, then it doesn’t have to be spelled out.

I’m ready for AI9. LOL. I’m already sick of hearing about Adam and we’ve got a ways to go. I stand by my prediciton that he’s really already won this. I dont know of anything he can do to lose it. I just hope some of the others that can sing (Matt, Allison, Anoop, Kris) get a chance to record. It would be nice if they could get a little more exposure. Adam is your AI8 winner and he can win it without any more tongue baths from the judges or pimp spot placements.

I believe Adam will be successful in show business but on stage. Thatà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s his strength and that is his bread and butter. He should stick with it.

In your opinion, maybe. In my opinion, he shines just as much (and in some cases, such as “Ring Of Fire,” even more) in his recordings.

my favorites this week are anoop, allison and matt.
I have to say that adams is no doing anything to me this week.. kinda bored me.a.little.

I’m not saying Adam is at fault for using a cover, it’s the show that should mention it. They should be consistant and am not sure why they aren’t since there’s been so many problems with it in the past. Maybe they hope for controversy. To me, whether you’re DC or Adam or anyone else, if you’re using a cover that’s different enough from the original to make a difference, there should be a mention.

Just my opinion but the time to mention that Adam did a variation on the Gary Jules version of Mad World should have been when Ryan announced him before he performed or when the judges were giving their critique following his performance.

I don’t know if it had anything to do with them over running but I could hardly make out what Ryan said when he quickly gabbled “here he is with Mad World from 82, Adam Lambert” .. and then we all know that there was no time for proper comment from the judges where for all we know they could have mentioned Gary Jules.

I suppose they could have mentioned it on results night (can’t remember if that’s what they did with Chris Daughtry and Live the other year) but as nothing was ever mentioned about Adam doing his own arrangement they perhaps felt it not necessary.

A lot of other contestants have copied arrangements and haven’t credited the artist .. ie Kris did Adelle’s version of Make You Feel My Love but she was never credited, Kris even said that he had come up with the arrangement and was credited for it .. something that Adam never claimed this week …..so it seems that there’s a bit of inconsistency about the crediting issue.

In your opinion, maybe. In my opinion, he shines just as much (and in some cases, such as à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Ring Of Fire,à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  even more) in his recordings.

That remains to be seen, but since you are an Adam fan I’m not going to argue with you. I wish you can understand that I wish Adam well, but after one album, I don’t expect him to be this huge superstar that think he will be.

Unless I watched a different show than everyone else, I never heard any judge claim that the arrangement was an Adam original.

Yes.. they didn’t even have a chance to talk about his performance. And I doubt Simon did not know the Gary Jules version since it was very popular in the UK.
I really believe the standing ovation because of how good he was, not because of anything else.
And I agree that Gary Jules version is more popular than the original version that’s why they felt no need to address it.

Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m already sick of hearing about Adam and weà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve got a ways to go. I stand by my prediciton that heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s really already won this. I dont know of anything he can do to lose it. I just hope some of the others that can sing (Matt, Allison, Anoop, Kris) get a chance to record.

I’m not quite ready to give Adam the crown but agree with you on the rest, Lu. I can’t tell you how many times I roll my eyes at the pimping, articles, etc that rave about Adam.

Re: Gary’s version wasn’t from the year Adam was born so do think it should have been mentioned.

Yes.. they didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t even have a chance to talk about his performance. And I doubt Simon did not know the Gary Jules version since it was very popular in the UK.

Yes it was Christmas number 1 here in the UK charts in 2003 and was played continuously on the radio.

This is a quote from Gary Jules:

à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“I said à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹I knew he was going to do it.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ I knew it! Heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s cool and heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s kind of emo-y and has black hair and seems sensitive. Thatà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s who would have that song in their lexicon,à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  Jules said. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“He totally understood the vibe of it and the power of it and delivered it in a unique and beautiful way. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦ I think Adam is straight-up the most interesting, for my personal taste, of anyone Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve ever seen on the show.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ 

edit: don’t tell posters what to do

Here is the full article:
http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/ … N-90408042

Right, well, I personally never even knew that Gary Jule’s Mad World wasn’t the original version until people started bitching about it after Adam’s performance. It’s not like Billie Jean or Walk the Line, where the contestant sang an obscure cover of a well-known song; in this case, the cover was much more popular than the original, so I don’t see how lack of attribution should be any sort of controversy. Plus, the judges praised him for singing well, not for being original and daring. At any rate, plenty of contestants have sung covers and gotten away with it; last season, IIRC, Archuleta’s Imagine, You’re the World, and Stand By Me were all covers. It’s only when the judges start claiming how original a contestant is for singing a cover they didn’t arrange themselves that there starts to be a problem, which they didn’t with Adam this time.

I believe Adam will be successful in show business but on stage. Thatà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s his strength and that is his bread and butter. He should stick with it.

Hmmm… since Kelly Clarkson’s “bread and butter” on AI was Aretha Franklin covers and soul music, I guess she should never try to rock out. Oh, wait…

Pigeon-holing. So much fun!

I said this on another thread and I think it bears repeating:

American Idolà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.Song Choiceà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.You are damned if you do and damned if you donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t.

Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve said before and Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ll reiterate again: Since there are virtually hundreds of covers of songs floating out there, how can anyone really be totally original on a song unless the song is written especially for them. Is a contestant supposed to get up and say à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“This is ____ song, originally by _______, and I chose to cover the cover by _______ but Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve changed it up slightly to show off my ________.

Geesh!! Now if they introduce the song and say à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“I re-arranged this songà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬  and someone finds a word for word version that they used then they should be blasted!

I don’t give a f–k about singing a cover of a cover of a cover. If they sing it good that is all that is important. This is a damned Kareoke contest and the singer who does it best should be rewarded.

And…if this was a real contest all of the singers would be given the same song with the same arrangement and told to sing their heart’s out. How utterly boring would that be?

On another note: I just listened to Anoop’s studio version and I thought it was lovely. The guy has a great voice. But, I stand behind my earlier assesment of Anoop. I think he would be ABSOLUTE FABULOUS as the frontman for a group. His vocals are supreme, but I get more wrapped up with the entire song package with the background singers adding their bits. He seems to really shine when he has good people in the background. Standing alone….not so much. I think that is why I loved him with the Clefhangers.

Music is so personal. We’re all moved or not moved by either by lyrics, tone or something else in a song or performance. For me, the reason I love and can’t stop playing Adam’s rendition of Mad World is the way it moves me. It’s a sad song full of angst. We all have memories of angst. In that moment, Adam took me through a beautifully haunting journey through my own past angst by conveying so well what I perceived as his. I felt that performance, and I feel it when I play the song over and over again. I certainly don’t always want to go to those places, but I appreciate when music can do that for me. it doesn’t have to be original to do that. I played the Gary Jules version over and over after i first heard it. I love the song. I listened to the Gary Jules interpretation again last night, and it no longer moves me the way Adam’s does. For me, even though it’s similar, Adam surpasses. Perhaps that is what some people are reacting to.

When the judges say “make it your own” I don’t think they necessarily mean reinvent. It means put your own spin on it. That can be interpreted in many ways. Adam didn’t rearrange the song and no one ever said he did, but he did put his stamp on it with some interesting and moving vocal changes. We’ll never know if they intended to mention Gary Jules or not given the time constraints, and it appears Gary doesn’t mind in the least.

Sarah, I was thinking of Kelly the other day…funny you mention that. You know, my favorite cover she did was – well – all of ‘em. But that season, I hadn’t heard some of her songs so went to find the “original” and in almost every case, I liked her version better. The one that I liked ALOT that the judges didn’t so much was “Walk on By”. She got the “you made that song your own” comment from Paula that week though. Too bad there was no Itunes back then on “Ghetto Idol”.

I just really hope that BB matt, anoop and kris get a record deals…
cause those are the only ones I see myself buying.

On another note: I just listened to Anoopà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s studio version and I thought it was lovely. The guy has a great voice. But, I stand behind my earlier assesment of Anoop. I think he would be ABSOLUTE FABULOUS as the frontman for a group. His vocals are supreme, but I get more wrapped up with the entire song package with the background singers adding their bits. He seems to really shine when he has good people in the background. Standing aloneà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.not so much. I think that is why I loved him with the Clefhangers.

I agree, Anoop just seems to thrive when he has company with him. Maybe it keeps him from getting too nervous, maybe he is just a social guy, maybe it’s a leftover thing from being a single child. Who knows? (I guess Anoop might) I think he needs to get himself a group.

Maybe he and some of his Clefhanger buddies will do that (I especially love that Chris guy, Charles and one of the Andrews). I’d buy their CD. Heck, I already bought 2 of their CDs from the Clefhanger site – my daughters and I listen to them all the time. But I tell you – he just is incredible, in ways we haven’t seen on Idol, when he is with his buddies. I think that is why some people don’t get the Anoop love, they haven’t seen him where he really shines.

For me, watching this show, I always assume the contestants are doing a cover of a cover if I don’t recognize it as the original. Let’s face it, they have a week, tops to get their songs ready. Unless they are talented arrangers, it’s much safer to go with a version that they find on the internet that they think fits their style then it is to arrange a new version. And if it is a new version, who’s to say the contestant arranged it? Maybe Rickey Minor had some input and the contestant said “great idea!” At it’s core, this is pretty much, a karaoke contest. Yes, Ryan should be as consistent as he can be as far as mentioning who’s version is being covered etc. but it is a live show. Only so much can be scripted.

ETA: I just read Tess’ post above. I should have read it before I posted since she already said exactly what I did, LOL.

No one can force Ryan to say this cover is a cover of a cover of so and so’s cover. It is a live show and sometimes he mentions things and sometimes he doesn’t. They totally ran out of time and this seems like such a non issue. Simon is a Gary Jules fan and he loves that song. It is mentioned in the article about Gary Jules. How about at the end of the show they run credits of every song sang by a contestant like they do for movies. They can list the song and who wrote it, who originally recorded it, and who’s cover was used that week. hmmmmmm, don’t know what they would say for a combo cover…..like so and so used part of the original version and part of a cover. Gets kind of messy but a thought.

As mention by previous posters, other contestants have used covers without any credit being given to the artist who created the cover as well. I think it’s very, very unfair to specifically target Adam in this case.
In conclusion, this whole Gary Jules thing is a non-issue.

edit: don’t criticize your fellow posters

^^I agree, jz. It’s as MJ suggested in her comments the other day. He’s a frontrunner, so he’ll be a target. Gotta love human nature.

I am also in the camp that says they should have mentioned Gary Jules since his version wasnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t the one from the year Adam was born. Credit were credit is due.

Well, in fairness, if we’re to give credit where credit is due, Michael Andrews arranged Mad World and Gary Jules sang it. Check out Jules’ myspace on the question….

Reminder:

Those of you with your panties in a twist: Dial it back please. If someone criticizes your favorite, it’s not your cue to become sarcastic, bossy or begin namecalling.

Please take note if I’ve edited your post.

LOL! Sorry about that.
(Still getting the feel of the guidelines.)

In happy news… the top 7 (well…except for Lil :’( ) all have over 100 ratings on their latest iTunes songs!

On another note: I just listened to Anoopà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s studio version and I thought it was lovely. The guy has a great voice. But, I stand behind my earlier assesment of Anoop. I think he would be ABSOLUTE FABULOUS as the frontman for a group. His vocals are supreme, but I get more wrapped up with the entire song package with the background singers adding their bits. He seems to really shine when he has good people in the background. Standing aloneà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬ ¦.not so much. I think that is why I loved him with the Clefhangers.

I agree, Anoop just seems to thrive when he has company with him. Maybe it keeps him from getting too nervous, maybe he is just a social guy, maybe ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s a leftover thing from being a single child. Who knows? (I guess Anoop might) I think he needs to get himself a group.

Maybe he and some of his Clefhanger buddies will do that (I especially love that Chris guy, Charles and one of the Andrews). Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢d buy their CD. Heck, I already bought 2 of their CDs from the Clefhanger site – my daughters and I listen to them all the time. But I tell you – he just is incredible, in ways we havenà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t seen on Idol, when he is with his buddies. I think that is why some people donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t get the Anoop love, they havenà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t seen him where he really shines.

I agree with everything you guys mentioned. But at the same time, I know Anoop has the potential to give more on the show.

I don’t give a crap about whose version Adam sang. The point is, if he would have sucked, no one would care. “Eight Days a Week”, anyone?

Anyway, I didn’t buy his iTunes….listened to it online.

I bought Allison’s, Danny’s and Matt’s. Thought Allison’s was the best. Liked the beginning of Danny’s only. Matt’s lost something in the translation – he was nasal.

“Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m not saying Adam is at fault for using a cover, ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s the show that should mention it. They should be consistant and am not sure why they arenà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t ”

I dont understand all the hoopla over any of therm using a cover and switching it up here and there (or not). Are they allowed to do their own original music, if any of them even have any, ?? If they did I dont think it would go over very well at all, not until they are established, I guess I am just confused by that?

I just know that both versions of Adams Mad World moved me and today soothed me, I was having an awful day and put that on and felt better, that is what music is supposed to do.

What’s the big deal about using covers, EVERYTHING they all sing is a cover. I don’t hear any original songs being performed. Who cares if it was a version of a version or a version of a version of a version. Is all the same. It’s what you do with what you choose to sing that counts.

I bought AL’s Mad World (and also love Gary Jules work). Is a great haunting version. Can see it would not be to everyones tastes. I usually don’t like music to slit your wrists by, but the interpretation of this song makes it more touching than depressing (always felt the Tears for Fears version a bit odd given what the lyric was).

I just know that both versions of Adams Mad World moved me and today soothed me, I was having an awful day and put that on and felt better, that is what music is supposed to do.

Loved this!

I won’t get into covergate cause it’s just tickling me to death that this is my little Adam, dominating this entire blog. I love it. I can’t predict anything. What I can say is that I love the man’s voice. If I never saw his beautiful face, or this awesome aura that he emits, he would still be left with this amazing ass voice. That he can do Mad World, and give me a seriously rocked out Satisfaction is just gravy to me. Dudes got some powerful mojo.

I love Anoop Desai’s voice as well. I would climb over Matt and Kris to buy anything that he records because he just has a pure, nuanced take on a song. He brings that subtle, classic R&B swagger that I love. I hope someone signs him, it would be such a loss, as I think he’s an interesting character as well. He’s got a bit of that New Jack Swing I liked too.

Allison is the best girl standing. Everything she does on the show and itunes has been amazing. She could win this, if Adam doesn’t.

I won’t get into covergate cause it’s just tickling me to death that this is my little Adam, dominating this entire blog.

My job isn’t just to stop fanwars. An even bigger job is to stop the fan creep certain contestants have…that every freaking thread turns into a thread about THEM.

For fans of other Idols it’s not so fun.

Sigh…I hope Allison wins(one can dream). She is a natural talent with a chance at making it HUGE, since she will transfer into a viable recording artist.

I love Anoop Desaià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s voice as well. I would climb over Matt and Kris to buy anything that he records because he just has a pure, nuanced take on a song. He brings that subtle, classic R&B swagger that I love. I hope someone signs him, it would be such a loss, as I think heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s an interesting character as well. Heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s got a bit of that New Jack Swing I liked too.

This.

IMO, the awesome thing about Anoop is that he knows how to subtly finess a song. That doesn’t always play well with AI viewers, because lots of them seem enamored of glory notes and, well, shouty loudness (Gokey, I am so looking at you). Anoop’s not shouty or showy. His talent in knowing how to phrase a line or quirk the melody is probably too subtle to grab a lot of viewers. Which is a shame.

And MJ, I noticed in your live recap of the show, that you were pretty darn impressed with Anoop’s performance (even going so far as to say Holy Cow!), but in your later wrap-up you’d dialed it way back. Not calling you out here, just wondering why the change. Was it a re-listen that changed your mind, or later performances by others?

Strangely, I’m totally neutral on Adam. I don’t love him or hate him. The guy obviously has mad skills and a great voice. He’s certainly a performer with tons of stage experience and knows how to present a song. If (or really, the way things are going, when) he wins AI, I’ll have no beef with that since he without doubt is talented. I just don’t get that he’s the second coming or some outrageous Totally! Original! prodigy. He *is* totally original within the context of AI and all past contestants, but he’s *not* totally original within the context of the music world at large.

Once again, like every other week for me, I love Matt so much more in his live performances than in the studio.
I like Adam live better too.
I actually like Kris’s studio version the best this week. xD If only the band weren’t so loud. =P
Allison sounds REALLY good.
Anoop sounds good too, but something’s missing for me. I know. It’s the backup singers! Hahaa. Like the live better.
I didn’t listen to Lil’s…
I still really HATE Danny’s arrangement of Stand By Me, and if I remember it’s not even his arrangement. =/ (Correct me if I’m wrong on that)