American Idol PLOT TWIST. The judges were pretty good to Tristan McIntosh all season, praising and advancing her even on weak performances. In-house mentor, Scott Borchetta seemed to be enamored with her talent. For instance, he fretted that her duet with a “weaker” singer, Lee Jean, could put her in danger.
When Scott told Taste of Country that the judges would probably eliminate Sonika Vaid if she ended up in the bottom two again this week, it seemed as if TPTB had their mind made up about who was going home before anyone sang a note. Tristan had told fans there would be no judges save this week…and then there was. It could be she was mistaken OR production changed their minds last minute. Earlier today fans were convinced it was Tristan who was being protected. But maybe nobody was being protected, and we fans are just overanalyzing everything.
In any case the judges DID save Sonika two weeks in a row, and honestly, I think it could have worked either way. Both singers have pitch and performance issues. Neither is very versatile, resulting in only one or two standout performances each. What I found hilarious is how they conceded that Tristan’s age–fifteen–is what held her back. That only a few more years of maturing will improve her performances. For teen singers like Lee and Tristan, it was apparent in Hollywood they were both in over their heads. Yet, TPTB chose to keep advancing them past talented and seasoned performers. It makes no sense.
Tonight’s show was full of emotional manipulation, which I will readily admit I could not resist. The first song packages featured friends and family from home wishing the contestants good luck. But the second half HOLY COW THE SECOND HALF. Nearly every story had me tearing up. Dalton’s bi-polar diagnosis, Trent losing his best friend, MacKenzie’s near death experience, La’Porsha’s abusive partner. It was like the damn Olympics. Stories of heartbreak followed by redemption. I feel like I know all of them a little better now. Even Sonika, who seemingly has led a drama free life, revealed new aspects to her personality.
The emotional video packages seemed to energize the Idol’s performances. That second set of songs was pretty amazing. La’Porsha wins the night as she ALWAYS DOES with “No More Drama” and “Ready for Love.” Trent shined bright on “Simple Man.” and MacKenzie set aside his hipster cool on his second song, “Billie Jean.” The first half was like a warm up. Those songs were my favorites. What were yours? Who do YOU think will leave the competition this week?
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