It was a fairly predictable, but satisfying ending to the CMT series Can You Duet (produced by the Idol peeps, 19 and Freemantle). The duo winning the record contract with judge Scott Borchetta’s Big Machine Records is…
Steel Magnolia, featuring Meghan Linsey and Joshua Scott Jones.
JB Rocket, featuring 18-year old Jonathan Cox and Ai Season 7 Top 50 contestant Brandon Green featured Jonathan’s sweet vocals coupled with Brandon on harmonies and guitar. Brandon also contributed the songs sung during the original song rounds. The duo had a pleasing country pop/vibe and catchy tunes. They could make Big Machine some money…
But I was rooting for the edgier duo, Steel Magnolia. Meghan and Joshua make magic when the harmonize. They’ve also got some pretty hot chemistry going on between the two of them.
Their first single, “Keep On Loving You” is available at Rhapsody.com and Big Machine Records.
Videos and Recap after the JUMP…
There are two rounds – First Round: the duos sing original songs Round Two: the duos meet with judge and head of Big Machine Records, Scott Borchetta to pick their individual winners’ singles to perform on the show.
JB Rocket – Jonathan Cox and Brandon Green (Top 50, Idol Season 7) were put together by the judges early in the competition. Big Kenny is impressed by how far they’ve come in just a few short months. Brandon tears up as he talks about how making the Top 2 was the happiest moment of his life. Their original song, written by Brandon, is a winner–on the poppy side of country, super catchy and radio friendly. Scott really likes it. Jonathan is the vocal star of this duo, but Brandon brings some impressive songwriting skills.
Steel Magnolia – Not only do these two have some pretty hot chemistry going on between them, but they’ve both got unique edgy vocals and impressive songwriting skills. While JB Rocket are pop, Steel Magnolia has the alt/country thing going on. I really dig that. I’d actually buy a CD from these two.
Caitlin and Will – “Address in the Stars”. The winners of the first season of Can You Duet aren’t my cup of tea musically, but wow, Caitlin can sang. Naomi is crying.
JB Rocket go over a few potential singles with Scott Borchetta in his office at Big Machine Records. They decide on “America is a Tough Town”. Slick pop/country song, upbeat with a rock edge. Nice guitar solo from Brandon! If these guys get signed, Brandon should have a hand in the songwriting–he’s pretty good.
Steel Magnolia – “Keep On Loving You” is the single they choose with Scott. Holy crap, these two can sing. And it’s not as if they have technically perfect voices–they’re unique, passionate and charismatic. Awesome. They better win. JB Rocket are talented pop/country/rockers but Steel Magnolia are stars.
Elimination – The judges headed back stage to decide the winner. But it’s a no-brainer. It was obvious from week one who deserved to win the competition. That’s the thing when there’s no viewer voting. The element of surprise is non-existent. So yes, the winner is…Steel Magnolia.
But all is not lost for JB Rocket–Scott tells the boys he’s got their phone numbers, so maybe he’ll sign both.
