No One Leaves American Idol

Okay, I have to say that I called it as soon as Ryan mentioned the "results are shocking" on last night's American Idol. They made such a big deal about the results and getting it down to Jordin and Chris - I figured no one would leave -- especially since the whole show was based on charity and it wouldn't have fit to have someone leave sad.

But I didn't see the "2 people will go home next week" announcement. Wow. That will shake things up a bit. It may send someone home that wouldn't necessarily go -- if they were in the bottom 2 and then their fans kicked into gear to save them. We have no idea who is in the bottom two -- so that will be interesting to see.

Anyway, I think many people were disappointed that all of the stars were only on pre-recorded bits -- rather than performing live. I heard on the news that the event had sold out in 1 minute -- and people were expecting to see the stars. But I'm glad that American Idol Gives Back raised so much money and I hope the money will go to help people directly. It would be cool to have another event in 6 months or so, showing how the donations actually made a difference.

Predictions for American Idol Tonight

My predictions for American Idol tonight -- So, I think LaKisha will probably go home -- or perhaps Blake.

Chris Richardson is such a cutie. I know the judges liked his performance last night, but it didn't quite work for me -- but I still like him. Eric Clapton is a tall order.

Melinda Doolittle did great as always. I really want her to win. I think she deserves it -- but I think Jordin may get the young kid and teen votes. I didn't know the Faith Hill song she sang -- but no matter what she sings -- she radiates! She has amazing talent!

Blake Lewis. I just can't get past the blank look on his face all the time with the raised eyebrows. He has a nice voice -- but I need to connect and see more personality from him -- more sincerity -- which is ironic because the judges seemed to think he performed "Imagine" by John Lennon with emotion and sincerity -- but it just didn't come across to me. I know he's popular and I liked his beat-boxing and style at the beginning, but it's gotten old now.

LaKisha Jones -- oh girl -- what happened to you? I'm not sure but the past 2 weeks she has seemed to struggle. I don't know if it's the pressure, being away from family or what -- or trying to sing former American Idol winner songs. Whatever it is, I think she's at risk of going home. She did look good though.

Phil Stacey -- I agreed with Randy that his rendition of Garth Brooks' "The Change" wasn't quite country enough. Maybe it's because I love Garth Brooks -- and his voice is so amazing and distinct -- but Phil's version just didn't do it for me. He really can sing well but I didn't love it. The judges seemed to like it and even Simon predicted he could do well if he sticks with country. That's probably true -- there are a ton of country lovers out there and if he could get their votes -- he may do better than previously anticipated.

Jordin Sparks. "You'll Never Walk Alone" is one of my all-time favorite songs. It's powerful and she sang it well, but I didn't love it as much as the judges seemed to. I did think it a bit awkward when Ryan gave Jordin his tie to wipe up her tears -- a little bit strange -- especially since she wasn't crying. hmm. Anyway, it seems like the judges are placing her as a potential winner and may sway the audience votes a little bit, and I wouldn't be sad if she won -- I just think Melinda deserves it more.

Bono coming to American Idol Tonight

Okay, so whomever is putting together the American Idol Gives Back -- is doing a great job! The fact that Bono is joining the other celebrities, shows that they are doing it right. Very cool.

I wasn't all that impressed with Ryan and his presentation of the charities -- it seemed a bit too casual for my taste -- but I'm sure as the celebrities perform tonight they will focus more on how we can make a difference in the world.

It was nice to see Simon affected by the people he met -- showing that he does have feelings and isn't mean all the time.

Ellen to Host American Idol

Hey all -- great news -- two of my favorites are combining! Ellen is going to host the American Idol Gives Back show. Very cool.

"Ellen DeGeneres will head into the primetime realm when she hosts Wednesday's live two-hour Idol Gives Back special. While Ryan Seacrest hosts the elimination episode from the show's regular soundstage, DeGeneres will hold court at L.A.'s Walt Disney Concert Hall.

Idol star Kelly Clarkson will make a special appearance on the episode, along with Gwen Stefani, Celine Dion and Bono, who'll talk with the Top 6 finalists about his ONE: The Campaign to Make Poverty History. They'll also perform "American Prayer," a song the rocker cowrote with Dave Stewart about the AIDS crisis in Africa, on Wednesday.

Idol Gives Back will benefit Charity Projects Entertainment Fund, a relief organization which benefits impoverished young people in America and Africa. "

-- People Magazine

Sanjaya is no longer on American Idol!

I couldn't believe it! Wow! Finally it has happened. I really didn't expect Sanjaya to go home last night simply because the voting for the worst campaign is still going on. But if LaKisha had been sent home instead, I think there would have been an uprising!

I actually haven't watched the results show -- it is on my TiVo -- but when I saw the news that Sanjaya was no longer on American Idol I have to say I was really relieved. I feel bad for the poor guy. I think he's loving the attention. And as he matures and gains more confidence, and learns more about performing, perhaps he could do fairly well.

I'm pretty happy with those we have left!

American Idol goes Country

Tonight American Idol performances were country. Martina McBride was the mentor for the American Idol contestants. She's one of my favorite country music stars. I recall a few years ago when she came to the Stadium of Fire in Provo -- one of my favorite celebrations (this year Brooks & Dunn will be headlining).

I loved Martina's advice about connecting with the music and the lyrics. That's so important when it comes to great performances.

Here are my notes from tonight:

Phil Stacey -- I would have liked to see what he would have looked like with a cowboy hat tonight. It would have matched his outfit and the country style. He really has a great voice. Needs to work a bit on his performing and showmanship, with a bit more energy. But I do like his voice and thought he sang well tonight. I think the country style fits his voice -- and the judges agreed!

Jordin Sparks -- I loved her hair -- it looked beautiful. Didn't really dig the dress though. But she is beautiful and has a nice voice. I thought we lost a lot of her spark and spunk -- because of the song choice. She sang it well and I'm certain she'll get a recording contract. She's also a contender for the title of American Idol -- and Simon's comment that based on her performance tonight he could see her winning. I'm not sure. I think she's still a little young but I know she's very well liked.

Sanjaya Malakar -- Oh my heck -- what is going on with his hair? He is a good sport, but please, please send him home this week! It felt like karaoke. He needs so much polishing and I wish the people who are trying to ruin American Idol would quit it and just let us enjoy the show. Randy said it was karaoke too and Simon "utterly horrendous". To hear Simon and Ryan argue is quite entertaining. I have to say that I really think Simon is right most of the time -- I don't want to be criticizing the contestants because it takes a ton of courage to get up and perform and then listen to critiques. But this is really a singing competition, we have to be realistic and just say Sanjaya is not the best and shouldn't continue on to the next round.

LaKisha Jones -- I was pleased to see that she was much more modest this week than previously. It was nice to just enjoy her singing and not be distracted by the outfit. She has an amazing voice, but I have to say this was not my favorite performance. Of course, she'll get a recording contract whether she wins or not, and at this point I think she'll come in 3rd or 4th. Her personality has not been as strong as some of the others.

Chris Richardson -- I just think he is so likeable. The tone of his voice is a bit less "smooth" than some of the other guys, and I'm not sure I'd buy an album from him, unless he was in a group with some harmony. Just personal taste. I really really like his personality but I just didn't like the performance this week. I hate to see his reactions when the judges criticize him -- he just looks so sad. His emotions show on his face so much. I hope he doesn't go home, but might.

Melinda Doolittle -- If American Idol was just about picking the best singer -- Melinda would win hands down. I'm liking her hair with the extensions. I think V-neck shirts would look nice on her and elongate her neck, but the shirt today was I think the best she's worn on the show. I'd like to see her have the confidence when she talks like she has when she's performing. She's got amazing talent. I liked that Simon told her to "lose the surprise" when he complemented her. She did and it worked for her -- I liked her humility but now she really shouldn't be surprised. I heard Leah Remini on Ellen talking about how that "act" of being surprised came across as not sincere. I didn't really agree, until tonight -- when her response of not being surprised -- it came across much better!

Blake Lewis -- I know he's a favorite, but I get a bit distracted by his lack of expression on his face when he sings. Initially I liked him a lot, but I think he's lost some of that -- kind of staying the same each week and not really shining. I didn't really like the performance this week, but it seemed like the audience liked it.

I think Phil, Chris and LaKisha will be in the bottom three this week. Although Sanjaya should be there rather than LaKisha. I think Phil will go home this week but he did a really good job, and I probably would buy an album from him if it was country. My dream would be that Phil stays and Sanjaya goes home -- then things would be more on track.

Celine Dion on American Idol?

So Ryan said tonight that Celine Dion is going to be on American Idol -- is that for the American Idol Gives Back Charity event, or is she going to be a guest mentor/coach? It wasn't clear to me -- but wow! That's going to be cool.

I loved the bit they did with Tony Bennett auditioning -- The judges were adamant that he was horrible and he didn't make it through. Just a joke -- but it made me wonder -- I bet there are a ton of singers who are in the industry that wouldn't make it through that process. That would be a reality show idea -- make established performers go through. I bet no one would want to and it might actually ruin their careers. Hmm. Interesting thought though.

J Lo on American Idol

I loved hearing the coaching tips that J Lo gave to the American Idol contestants. She is so beautiful and cute. I love that when she talks, she seems so real. Jennifer Lopez embodies passion -- so her performances always make an impact. I hope some of the American Idol performers will take to heart that connection and try to really feel the emotions of the music. It makes a huge difference!

They announced last night that more performers are joining the American Idol Gives Back campaign including Rascal Flatts, Il Divo, Earth Wind and Fire, and the LA Philharmonic. It seems like they have really good groups and I bet even more big names will come on board. As soon as you get a few big names, more jump at the chance and don't want to be left out. I'll be excited to hear who they announce next.

Finally, It's Happened -- Haley Leaves American Idol

I wrote a bunch of notes about the American Idol performances -- but then ran out of time to blog about everything. But I would have predicted Haley leaving tonight -- and Phil being in the bottom 3. But I wasn't sure about the other bottom performer. I actually thought Blake might be there, because he has lost some of his appeal for me -- and because Chris is so likeable.

I loved the advice J.Lo gave to the American Idol contestants. And I actually thought Sanjaya did a good job -- his best performance up to this point. I was hoping Haley would go home -- it is just hard to watch someone who is trying to sell herself so much, and doesn't seem to know who she is, but rather uses her body. Even Simon mentioned that she was using the tactic of "wearing the least amount of clothes possible." That is very sad.

I agreed with Simon on most of the American Idol performances last night -- and felt like no one really stood out and "wowed" me. Of course Melinda, LaKisha and Jordin did well -- but I didn't love any of the performances. Chris Richardson keeps growing on me, but his voice isn't my favorite. Although I do think he'll get a record deal and do very well. Blake has hit a deadend for me -- he just doesn't seem to connect to the music, but always gives a good performance. I wish he would have a bit more emotion and some more facial expressions.

I still predict Melinda to win. LaKisha and Jordin in the top 3 and perhaps Blake as the 4th (although I'd rather it was Chris). I think Phil will go home next week, and then possibly Sanjaya if we're lucky. But it will probably be Chris or Blake.

Anyway, I think they are all doing well -- and I wish for them the best.

Gina Glocksen gets voted off American Idol!

I wasn't too surprised at the bottom 3 this week -- Phil Stacey, Haley Scarnato, and Gina Glocksen. I wished that Haley had gone home and that Sanjaya would be next -- but those who are messing with the voting are making it difficult to guess.

Gina Glocksen got voted off American Idol tonight and I'm not too sad to see her go. It's not that she can't sing. She just doesn't seem to connect with the music or audience as much as LaKisha, Melinda, or Jordin.

Tony Bennett on American Idol

Wow! Tony Bennett is one of my all-time favorites. He is so classy and has such an amazing voice. I hope the American Idol contestants truly know that this is the opportunity of a lifetime (a dream that most singers -- even the famous ones -- would die to have!) -- To have Tony Bennett critique and mentor you -- very cool!

So, here are my thoughts about last night's performances.

1. Blake Lewis. He really sings well, but I kind of felt like he doesn't really connect with the song or the audience -- he's just performing. I don't FEEL anything. But I like him.

2. Phil Stacey. I love his voice. He has such a nice tone to it -- and to get a complement from Tony Bennett that he is one of the better singers, not just in the competition -- I'm sure he will always remember that. I think he'll be in the bottom three again this week -- it's not his singing, but his look that I think people have a harder time connecting to.

3. Melinda Doolittle. She's always great. I didn't love her outfit this week, but what Randy said about her interpreting and feeling the music is right on! I didn't love the first half but the last verse was amazing! (I typically agree with what Simon says and I think he was right about this performance as well.)

4. Chris Richardson. He is such a cutie -- very genuine, great smile, seems like he's real. I like that about him. I like his personality the best of the guys -- but didn't love the song tonight. I hope he stays.

5. Jordin Sparks. I've liked her from the start. Ryan Seacrest predicts she'll win the competition. I wouldn't go that far but think she'll be in the top 3 or 4. I felt like it was kind of a boring song but she sang it well and the last note was amazing.

6. Gina Glocksen. I think she's at risk and will be in the bottom 3 tonight. She just doesn't seem as sincere as some of the other girls. She sings fairly well, but doesn't seem to feel anything as she is singing. It's just a performance. It's got to be hard to be up there and have everyone judging you.

7. Sanjaya. Okay -- I have to say -- Poor Guy! I really feel bad for him. I think he's a sweet kid, but it has become so much of a joke that I wonder how that can be to know that people are voting for you because they consider you the worst. I wonder how much he knows about what is going on or if he's being a bit sheltered from the press. I thought he might have looked cool if his suit was black and he had on a black hat -- but the white suit actually made me laugh out loud. But it goes along with his daring spirit. I really do feel bad for him and hope that it ends tonight, so it doesn't have to be so uncomfortable anymore.

8. Haley. Another one I'm feeling bad for -- she's trying so hard to be sexy that it's very awkward, uncomfortable, immodest, and not sexy at all -- just a bit skanky. She did the same thing as last week -- starting out singing on the steps, following the camera everywhere. It's not that she's a bad singer -- just doesn't seem to know who she is, doesn't connect with the music or audience -- and seems to be trying to sell herself, rather than loving to sing. I hope she goes home tonight as well.

9. LaKisha Jones. I wasn't blown away by her song this week, but Dang! That girl can sing! She's going to go far, even if she doesn't win American Idol.

So, I'm really hoping either Haley or Sanjaya go home this week. But I think Phil, Chris and Blake may be at risk.

What do you think?

American Idol Gives Back

I'm getting more excited for the American Idol Gives Back show -- more and more stars are going to be participating including: Hugh Grant, Kiera Knightley, Helena Bonham Carter, Pink, Mr. Bean, Daniel Radcliff (Harry Potter), and even Kelly Clarkson. It should be a great event and I hope they do well.

I wish I knew more about the charity they were supporting -- it's seemed rather vague about what and how they propose to help kids in both the US and in Africa. I hope they'll give us more details -- so it's really about helping people and not just a publicity show.