On a less intense level, the girl spent all season working a backstory of a young strong young woman who had overcome adversity. The judges and mentors are always telling the contestants to be true to themselves. Singing music that runs contrary to who they are hardly allows a performer to stay true to their artistry. Let’s call it like it is. Borchie doesn’t want to sign her. He could have picked an empowering Aretha Franklin tune for La’Porsha, but instead he forced her to sing a song she made clear she didn’t want. AND he made sure to mention the disagreement they had on air. Sound familiar? coughclarkbeckhamcough. Harry asked her to be specific during his critique and she answered him truthfully. I have to wonder if Scott was counting on that, aware of how Idol fans turn against contestants who sass the judges.
She could have been more connected to the song, but it was still powerful. “Glory” and “Hello” were superb. I don’t think she’ll win, but La’Porsha definitely has a chance to come in second place.
The new king is Trent Harmon, who got the princely treatment. Aside from his family being flown in to surprise him, Scott is clearly eager to work with Trent. No forcing him to sing a song alien to his Idol persona. Scott made the effort to procure a big name artist, Justin Timberlake, who never clears songs for singing competitions. Plus, the song was PERFECT for him. I was a little disappointed in “Tennessee Whisky.” Some bad habits creeped back into that performance. His last song, “Waiting Game,” was one of the performances of the night, along with La’Porsha’s “Glory.” Really, those two need to be Top 2.
There’s a lot to like about Dalton. I appreciate his sincerity, ability to connect to an audience, exuberance and theatricality. And he seems like a really sweet and caring kid. BUT at this point in the competition, Dalton is simply out classed vocally and performance wise. Don’t underestimate the singer’s loyal fanbase. If La’Porsha actually hurt her image by going negative on Scott, there is the possibility she could leave the competition first. I don’t think it’s going to happen.
MacKenzie got so close to the crown, I bet he could taste it. His elimination tonight was heartbreaking as he told Ryan to basically cut to the chase because he knew he was out. When MacKenzie wowed the judges with his original song “Roses” he seemed impossible to beat. MacKenzie isn’t as versatile as the other three left in the competition. He only shone when singing his own music or stripped back covers.
As for what will happen next Wednesday. The FOX press episode press release states all 3 finalists will sing. But I think it will be like the last couple of weeks. The Top 3 sing, an elimination takes place, a lovely farewell package, and the Top 2 go back to performing. That’s my guess.
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