‘American Idol’: Cash in, Carey
Pop quiz! In addition to the obvious fact that they’ve all been booted from American Idol’s season 7 finals, what else do David Hernandez, Amanda Overmyer, Chikezie, Ramiele Malubay, and Michael Johns have in common?
Well, aside from their alleged enthusiasm for Ford vehicles, Coca Cola, and iTunes, none of them played instruments during any of their live performances this season. (Yes, yes, I know that’s not 100 percent technically correct…but I refuse to acknowledge Chikezie’s pitiful maiden attempt at harmonica during ”I’ve Just Seen a Face.”)
More Idol Headlines After the Jump
American Idol: The Top 7 Perform
When the show started and they panned the final seven contestants, the first several were giggling until they got to Archuleta who had a weird smile on his face. I wonder if he had just cut one? Or maybe Ryan did, but it was in front of David and so he was trying not to pass out. Ryan opened the show by discussing the elimination of Michael Johns but did not offer an apology, as many have demanded, for the false glimmer of hope he cruelly gave Michael when he was cut.
Guys dominate Mariah Carey week on ‹Idol
This was Mariah Carey week for the “Idol” contestants, as the record-setting pop star served as the guest mentor. In a related news story, Carey has a new album out, and as the show has mentioned perhaps a million times in its seven-year history, she and Randy Jackson have worked together quite a bit over their careers.
“I say this is make-or-break for Randy’s career tonight, ” Simon Cowell joked at the start of Tuesday’s broadcast.
Recap: ‘American Idol’ voices Carey
For six-and-a-half seasons now, American Idol contestants have heard near-weekly lectures from the judges about how covering certain singers — Whitney, Christina, Celine, Mariah — is just a recipe for disaster, Tuesday (April 15) night’s show is dedicated entirely to karaoke versions of Mariah Carey hits. Gee. That sounds like a recipe for disaster, right?
American Idol: I Miss Chikezie and Michael Johns
Darn. Castro still has his dreadlocks. On the plus side, though, the girls finally bothered to dress up for the occasion. Save Carly matronly black tights and Kristy frightful eyelashes, they all looked pretty good.
Seacrest took a few moments at the beginning of the show to address the pink elephant in the room who likes to walk on treadmills in high heels, that is the fact that on …American Idol, E doesnt usually equal MC2. It usually equals a hot mess and Randy and Simon telling a contestant she is not up to the challenge of tackling such a talented artist (while Paula compliments the girl outfit).
My advice for the Idols who were so nervous about singing in front of Mimi, remember one simple fact. This was the woman who brought you …Glitter.
But how did they sing?
Idol BTS: The Davids Are the Goliath
Also Spotted: Ramiele and David Hernandez were sitting next to each other in the audience, and Ryan had to fill David’s seat when he took to long getting a soda during a break…David Cook came into the crowd after his performance (during the break) to give his family some nice big hugs…and Whitney Port from The Hills was spotted–but not with any other Hills cast members, as far as we could tell. Guess her new fashion job is not all that life-consuming after all!
On ‘Idol, ‘ a ticket home can be theirs for a bad choice of song
American Idol judges like to remind contestants that it’s a singing competition. Often, though, what finalists sing is as important as how they sing.
Poor song selection can provide a quick ticket home. Ramiele Malubay learned that after a pitchy rendition of Dolly Parton’s Do I Ever Cross Your Mind. David Hernandez found it out after his kitschy romp through The Beatles’ I Saw Her Standing There. And last week voters seemed to agree with Simon Cowell when he told the previously reliable Michael Johns that he’d chosen the wrong song in Aerosmith’s Dream On.
David Cook’s Ailing Brother Attends Tearful Performance
During a commercial break, David walked down to hug his brother in his seat. All three judges ‘ Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson ‘ also hugged Adam.
Adam, 36, who traveled to Los Angeles from his home state of Indiana, arrived at the studio 40 minutes before the live telecast began and took a seat right next to Desperate Housewives star Teri Hatcher and her daughter.
Two weeks ago David had a difficult time concentrating on the show because he had learned his brother condition had worsened. Despite his fragile state, Adam doctors allowed him to travel to the Idol show accompanied by a medic and a nurse.
Podcast: David Cook’s story hits home in more ways than one
Well, I wasn’t expecting this: I asked Shari Elliker before our talk this morning on WBAL-AM what was on her mind and she said: David Cook’s brother.
If you haven’t clicked the story on the Ticker, here it is. Adam Cook, who’s 11 years David’s senior, has a diagnosis of advanced brain cancer, and by several accounts it is having a profound effect on David’s already emotional journey to the top of “American Idol.”
Archuleta’s Utah friends say humility is no act
Seemingly all of Utah and half of America is rooting for David Archuleta to be the next “American Idol.” But one of the Murray teen’s best friends wouldn’t be completely heartbroken if he’s not.
“I miss him a lot, so it’s OK with me if he comes home, ” Jessica Judd said, with a laugh.
The signs of how big a deal this is are all over Murray High ‘ literally. Not only is the school Archuleta attends plastered with posters, but they’re selling “I voted for David Archuleta” T-shirts.
And the media have descended on the school to find out what the “Idol” favorite is really like.
Teacher excited about White’s success
When American Idol contestant Brooke White left Arizona for California to pursue a music career, her former cosmetology teacher at the East Valley Institute of Technology never expected to see her on one of the most popular television shows in the country.
Teri Mosier, White’s cosmetology teacher at EVIT during the 1999-2000 school year, had never watched the show but said she was surprised when she found out White was a contestant and …went home and turned it on right away.
…We spend two years with these girls and we see them come in as kids and go out as adults so you get attached to them, Mosier said. …We do a lot of the mothering concept here, all the instructors do, so you’re proud. It’s like one of your kids.
Who That Girl? It Star Carly!
SHE looks familiar, right? American Idol fans will surely know her ‘ it Carly Smithson, one of the remaining finalists, back in the day when her last name was Hennessy, she still lived in Ireland, and most refreshingly, she didnt have tats on her arms.
MICHAEL JOHNS FINDS ATTENTION ‘SURREAL, ‘ LOVES WHYNATTES
Australian-turned-Atlantan was a fan favorite and seemingly a frontrunner until his untimely demise last Thursday.
He stopped by the plaza today to chat with Matt, Meredith and Natalie. WATCH VIDEO
We’ll have a vlog post here on allDAY soon, but in case you can’t get enough of Michael Johns, I had a quick chat with him after his appearance on the plaza. He spent about 15 minutes talking to our crowd outside, posing for photos and signing autographs, and as we stepped inside, he said, “This is surreal.”
Here’s the conversation that followed:
‘Idol’ finalist Ramiele Malubay explains herself!
American Idol’s reigning ninth-place finisher stopped by EW.com’s cubicles, where I got to ask her about her insane elimination-night garb, her questionable song choices (“Alone”? Really?), and a possible reality-TV future with BFF Danny Noriega. Ch-ch-check out this three-part interview ‘ if you’re not too busy mourning Michael Johns’ ouster, that is.
Lewis To Top Billboard 200 With ‹Spirit
U.K. import Leona Lewis will make a huge splash at No. 1 on The Billboard 200, becoming the first British solo artist to debut in the U.S. chart’s top slot when Nielsen SoundScan releases its charts tomorrow (April 16) morning.
The singer, discovered on “The X Factor, ” Simon Cowell’s British talent show, leads the list with opening-week sales of 205, 000 copies. That gives Lewis’ “Spirit” a commanding lead over last week’s chart champ, George Strait’s “Troubadour, ” which holds the runner-up spot with 59, 000 sold.
Leona Lewis to perform on American Idol
Leona Lewis will appear on American Idol later this month.
X Factor mentor Simon Cowell, 48, has booked her to perform on the hit US show, on which he is a judge, reports The Sun.
The appearance comes as Leona, 22, is expected to top both the album and single charts in the States tomorrow ‘ making her the first British female to achieve this.
Underwood, Parton to perform at ACMs
Rodney Atkins, Dolly Parton and Carrie Underwood are among the country stars lined up to perform at this year’s Academy of Country Music Awards show, organizers announced Tuesday.
The May 18 show will be telecast live on CBS from the MGM Grand Garden Arena on the Las Vegas Strip.
Rhapsody Presents Carrie Underwood With The Rhapsody Most Played Country Album Award
CMT, a division of MTV Networks and Rhapsody(R), the digital music service from MTV Networks and RealNetworks(R), Inc. , congratulate country artist Carrie Underwood, winner of Rhapsody’s Most Played Country Album of 2007 award. Announced as a part of the CMT Music Awards Red Carpet show, this award acknowledges that Ms. Underwood’s 2007 release Some Hearts was listened to more times Rhapsody users than any other country album in 2007.
CMT Awards: Did Paula Abdul write her own patter?
Speaking of off, Paula Abdul (pictured) was on hand to deliver THE most awkward introduction ever. She looked fabulous, in a Spider-Man inspired gown, and she clearly felt great as she danced her way to her mark. But then she spoke: “My life has always been surrounded by dance, cheerleading, tons of inspiration, and, of course, music. That’s why I’m so happy to be here in Music City!” Cut to Keith Urban, looking bored. But continue. “Now, I’m just so blown away. There’s so many American Idol alumni here, I feel like this is a reunion, and I’m a proud mom. You know, some of those kids we literally found underneath a rock, and saw that they could actually be our bright and shining diamonds in the rough.” Dramatic pause as she puts her outstretched arms down. “When they were vulnerable on that stage about ready [glares over her right shoulder at some screaming fan] to get kicked off, they held their own with total grace and dignity. [Looks over her shoulder again and says, “Alright. I get it.” Shakes her head. Continues, unconvincingly.] “It’s just that I’m really proud of my little angels. Now what I’m trying to say is: In music, there’s so, so much that you have to take into consideration. But most of all, you’ve gotta have faith. But in this room, it’s all about spirit and faith. There’s only one person in this room who has faith. And it’s Tim. Ladies and gentleman, performing their hit song “I Need You” Tim McGraw and Faith Hill.”
American Idol Judge Paula Abdul Cances Live “Today” Show Performance
Paula Abdul has backed out of a live performance on the “Today” show:
The “American Idol” judge, who hadn’t performed live in years, has cancelled her April 25 live concert, part of the show’s annual Summer Concert Series. She’ll be replaced by Alicia Keys on April 21.
“Paula Abdul is no longer part of ‘Today’s’ concert series at this time, however, she is always welcome at ‘Today, ‘ NBC said in a statement yesterday. Abdul’s representative did not respond to a request for comment.
American Idol Contestant John Stevens Dishes up Chicken Soup
Our interviews with the contributors to Chicken Soup for the American Idol Soul continue today with John Stevens. John finished at #6 in Season 3 and released his first CD in 2005. He ´s currently developing his craft at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, where he is a student.
Thanks for joining us John. It ´s great to have you here.
Why don ´t we get started by finding out a bit more about you. How long have you been interested in jazz, big band, and swing music? Who is your greatest source of inspiration?
‘Idol’ alum Carmen Rasmusen stuck to her faith and her music
From Grammys and gold records to college and day jobs, life after American Idol is a mix of the ordinary and the entertaining. For USA TODAY, Andrew McGinn catches up each week with a former finalist.
Much to her frustration, Carmen Rasmusen couldn’t attract the attention of record-label executives after American Idol.
She did, however, attract another kind of invertebrate: Madagascar hissing cockroaches.
The country gal from Utah was covered in them (among other creepy-crawlies) during a 2006 stop on NBC’s Fear Factor. “The worst experience of my life, ” says Rasmusen, 24.
Former American Idol Contestant Melinda Doolittle Performs On Newschannel Five
KSDK- St. Louis ice cream lovers are urged to cast their vote for their favorite American Idol flavor on www.slowchurned.com.
One lucky St. Louis winner will get a chance to have American Idol season six contestant Melinda Doolittle perform a concert live in their own living room on Wednesday, April 16.
The winning Edy’s Slow Churned American Idol ice cream flavor will earn a permanent spot in the Slow Churned ice cream line up.
Melinda will also be doing a meet and greet with fans on Wednesday, April 16 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Shop ‘n Save, 1144 Meramec Station Road, Twin Oaks, MO 63021.
To watch Melinda’s performance on Newschannel Five, click on the link above this story.
