American Idol 2016 Denver Audition Amber Lynn and James VIII – VIDEO
Amber Lynn and James VIII – James came along to support Amber. She insisted he audition too. Well, girlfriend. That was dumb. You just set yourself up for an Idol arc that will probably not work out in your favor. James insists that the two are just buds! He also insists he’s primarily a musician, not a singer. His full name is James Gray Dawson the VIII. It goes back to the Revolution. Amber sings “Unaware” by Allen Stone. James plays guitar. She’s got a tasty voice. Nice tone, passionate. A little shrill on the top notes, but her phrasing is beautiful. Harry notes her talent, but feels James’ guitar playing was rushed. A lecture commences. She has a lot of soul, and sings from a place down deep, says Jlo. Keith appreciates the way she lost herself in the music. James sang “Sun Comes Up” by John Legend. He’s got a bluesy sound, a little affected, though. That performance didn’t feel organic. Harry thought there were some interesting things about him. He notes his voice is affected, but it’s OK. Jlo agrees, she liked his affectations, calling his singing “super cool.” Keith likes his “groove.” 3 yeses for both singers. ETA: James was in a band that auditioned for America’s Got Talent last summer. They were cut before the live shows.
