It was a bittersweet night on American Idol as the Top 7 turned into the Top 5 (Check out the Recap). Sad, because the competition is so fierce at this point, any competitor cut could reasonably make the Top 5. And tonight, season 18 Comeback winner, Arthur Gunn, who went into the competition with a ton of fans from last season, and singer-songwriter Hunter Metts got the axe.
Would the voting outcome been different if fans had several hours, or overnight, to vote? Having the last spot of the night, like Hunter did, could work against a contestant. But actually, at this point, fans probably have their favorites kinda set in stone. Although I do believe Hunter COULD have lost some of the casual vote, as his second song, a tender original, was better than his Coldplay cover.
I am a little surprised that voting cut Arthur at the Top 7. But then again, Arthur’s presence in season 19 was so polarizing that even Just Sam, the winner of his season, prefered that a newbie won. American Idol die-hards didn’t like the Comeback. So that left it to Arthur’s fans and casual viewers to vote for him. And the thing is, while Arthur did his Arthur thing tonight, the rest of the singers outsung him. Maybe not Caleb Kennedy, but the young country singer clinched the deal with his original song. That teenager has songwriting talent.
Going into the Top 7, my favorites were Hunter and Casey Bishop. Hunter delivered one of his best performances with his original song, “The River.” I think he out performed Chayce Beckham tonight. But Chayce has been a fan favorite since his audition. He could even make the final.
All in all, another great night of music on American Idol. I wish the final had another week or two to allow the finalists to REALLY find their footing on stage. NEXT YEAR MAYBE. Ryan announced tha season 20 auditions would be starting soon, which confirms the rumors of Idol’s renewal.
How about a BIG SHOUT OUT to Chris Martin who gave the young singers solid advice, without allowing his ego to get in the way. He was extraordinarily humble, kind and attentive during his mentor sessions. Even his compliments seemed sincere.
Now. Vote for your favorites below!
American Idol 2021 POLLS: Top 7 Coldplay/Mother’s Day, Top 5 Reveal: VOTE VOTE VOTE
American Idol 2021 Favorite Top 7 Performance
American Idol 2021 Favorite Top 5 Contestant
American Idol 2021 Top 7 – Who Got Robbed?
American Idol 2021 Top 7 – Chris Martin Yay or Nay?
American Idol 2021 Grade the Episode
