It's country week on American Idol! It's always fun to see the country singers shine, and the rockers and R&B singers try and muddle through. Randy Travis was on hand to offer advice to the singers, and you can tell that most of them were star-struck about having a one-on-one with him. Let's get to it:Michael Sarver sang "Ain't Goin' Down Til the Sun Comes Up." He did a pretty good job with it, other than flubbing the lyrics a little in the middle. Randy Jackson liked the song, but wasn't sure about the vocals. Kara thought it was fun, but she missed the big notes. Paula thought the genre suited him, and Simon said it was clumsy and he couldn't understand the words. On a scale of 1 to 10, he'd give it 1.2. Really? It didn't seem that bad to me.
American Idol' Season 8 Results
Feb. 26, 2009: Adam Lambert Makes the Top 12
"I like this guy more than [David] Cook, he is just more energetic and he owned the night."
-- Lindahbird
Fox
Feb. 26, 2009: Nick Mitchell Is Eliminated (For Now)
"We all know that Norman will not win 'Idol,' but I'm glad that he was in the Top 36, and he does have a good voice! He was very entertaining and funny, and I'm glad that he was chosen for Top 36! He will probably get some gigs in Hollyweird! I actually voted for him, ha ha!"
-- PinkSunset77
Fox
Feb. 26, 2009: Allison Iraheta Makes the Top 12
"She is just awesome ... there is so much talent in that 16-year-old ... just amazing!! She really is my favorite so far. But it has been a tough couple of weeks as far as song choice!!!"
-- DEBBIE8863
Fox
Feb. 26, 2009: Kris Allen Makes the Top 12
"He's cute and I liked him but I thought that Matt had more potential."
-- BESTBUNNY10
Fox
Feb. 26, 2009: Nick Mitchell Is Eliminated (For Now)
"I honestly don't think Norman is the least bit funny. I think he is making a huge joke out of 'American Idol.' There are 35 other contestants that are being serious and really trying and then there is Norman."
-- Bpadra
Fox
Feb. 26, 2009: Megan Corkrey Is Eliminated (For Now)
"I knew I liked this wild card thing. Megan will be back."
-- PETCRAB
Fox
Feb. 26, 2009: Adam Lambert Makes the Top 12
"I didn't care for him at all. I thought he was way over the top and way too theatrical for that song. I'm sure he'll get through. I'll be interested to see what he does when they have themes. Maybe he'll grow on me, but right now I would put him second or third behind some of the other ones I've heard."
-- JandeCBS
Fox
Feb. 18, 2009: Danny Gokey Makes the Top 12
"When [Danny] and Tatiana were called up, he had the cockiest look on his face.
Like he's a really good singer, but whenever I see him, I just think about how cocky he looks."
-- RoshanMcG
Fox
Feb. 18, 2009: Alexis Grace Makes the Top 12
"Alexis is the whole package! So cute ... with such a big voice."
-- clammy1954
Fox
Feb. 18, 2009: Michael Sarver Makes the Top 12
"I don't really get the appeal. I mean, he's a likeable guy, but as a performer, he just doesn't seem that good to me. I definitely thought Ricky and Anoop sounded better."
-- TGirl1045
Fox
Allison Iraheta sang "Blame It On Your Heart." Randy Travis said he's never heard this kind of maturity in a 16-year-old. She does a great job, looks relaxed, and has a stage presence like I've never seen. You'd never know she had that voice, because off-stage, she seems to have no ego whatsoever. Kara said she could sing the alphabet if she wanted, and every week she gets better. Paula called it a rock-solid performance. Simon thought it was tuneless in parts and wondered if she was struggling to remember the words (not the case). Randy called it "dope."
Kris Allen sang "To Make You Feel My Love." Randy Travis said he made the song his and didn't just copy Garth Brooks' version. It's a slow song, and he puts a lot of heart into it. It's really beautiful. Paula was pleasantly surprised, calling it an "honest, vulnerable performance." She liked seeing him without his guitar. Simon said it was "terrific," a good song choice, and this is the first time he feels like Kris has a shot of doing well in the competition. Simon also called Kris a "tender puppy." Kara called it beautiful, and Randy said he went out on a limb and gave up "tender moments from my dawg, Kris."
Lil Rounds sang "Independence Day." Randy Travis advised her to slow it down, saying she's got big pipes. I love Lil's voice, and have loved everything she's done so far, but this is my least favorite performance of hers. It's hard to top Martina McBride's version, but she did a good job with it. Randy said it didn't feel comfortable to him. Paula said Lil looked beautiful, but she wished she would have sang just one verse and then gone to the bigger chorus. Simon – who kept calling her Little - said it was like a song she was forced to sing at a wedding. Lil said she understands what the judges are saying, but that "you'll always get Lil Rounds."
Adam Lambert sang a slow, jazzy, mysterious version of "Ring of Fire" – really interesting, and I liked it! Randy Travis said he's a great singer, but probably won't become a member of the Grand Ole Opry any time soon (meaning he's just not "country"). Kara said the version was a little strange, but she liked it because she got the drama and the "eyes." Paula said he's true to himself as an artist. She loved the Middle Eastern sitar-type rendition, and likened it to a "cashmere Led Zeppelin." Simon said "What the hell was that?" and called it "absolute indulgent rubbish." Randy said it was like Nine Inch Nails doing a country song.
Scott Macintyre sang "Wild Angels." Randy Travis loved his piano playing and called it "impressive." The vocals with the piano and backup from the house band were really nice. All the Idols are really good this year! Paula said it was impressive and lovely, though she wondered if he was using the piano as a crutch (what? They've always loved his piano). Simon called Paula's comment comment, and said Scott's very comfortable behind the piano, comparing it to Elton John or Billy Joel. But Simon didn't really like the song choice, because it's forgettable. Randy said he'd looking for those "hot, crazy, unbelievable vocals," and hasn't seen them this week or last week. Kara told Scott to up his game, but she's impressed with his class and poise on the stage.
Alexis Grace sang "Jolene." Randy Travis said it's a good choice for her, and she seems to understand about storytelling in a song. He said Dolly Parton will be proud. Randy Jackson said it was a little pitchy and not a great performance. Kara said she lost her edge a bit, but Paula thought the song was effective, bringing out the soft, vulnerable side of her. Simon thought it was a little "sound-alike," and people will probably forget about it in a few minutes.
Danny Gokey sang "Jesus Take the Wheel." Randy Travis called it very soulful. Aside from Danny's weird doctor's coat, I really like the performance, especially the ending. All the songs made me goosebumpy tonight. Kara said he came out of his shell in the second half. Paula called it brilliant, and said Carrie Underwood would go out and buy that record. Simon didn't like the white jacket either, saying it's like he's going on "some sort of polar expedition." Randy said he verses were pitchy.
Anoop Desai sang "Always On My Mind." Randy Travis advised him to let the song build, and thinks this will be Anoop's best performance yet. I agree. His soulful version is really heartfelt, and he's got some killer runs in there. Paula said Anoop is back, and called the performance "tender, honest, amazing, sweet vocals" that touched her heart. Simon said Anoop just went from zero to hero, adding that it's one of his favorite performances of the night. Simon also complimented him on taking last week's criticism and kicking it up a notch. Randy loved the arrangement, calling it "dope," and Kara said it was amazing, and the best performance of the night.
Megan Joy Corkrey sang "Walkin' After Midnight." Randy Travis said it was totally unexpected and unique. Megan reminds me of a 1940s pinup girl, and her little awkward movements are growing on me. Randy Jackson thought it would be a train wreck, but he really liked the rocky-bluesy-soul-jazzy thing. Kara said her look and song were perfect (and Megan has the flu, too, but you'd never know it). Paula said she's the consummate professional, and brought it even though she'd been in the hospital this week. Simon said she looked gorgeous, but wondered if the stylists are taking away some of her quirkiness.
Matt Giraud sang "So Small," and Randy Travis liked the version and found it surprising. Matt played the piano while singing, and I loved it. Again, great group of very talented Idols this year. Kara called it amazing, and Paula said he's an authentic performer who's piercing through peoples' hearts. Simon said Matt hasn't had enough credit for his vocals so far, but thinks he out-sang Danny Gokey tonight. Simon also said Matt reminds him of Michael Buble, and said it was a "terrific performance, one of the best tonight." Randy said it was his favorite performance of the night, and "you got it going on, baby."
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
3-18-2009 @ 1:18AM
Ryan said...
Kris, Matt, and Anoop were the only three that had unanimous praise from the judges. Megan, too, actually. But the three guys in particular because I agree with the judges wholeheartedly.
I voted for Kris tonight.
In terms of the others though, I thought Adam gave the best performance LAST WEEK, but completely butchered "Ring of Fire" this week. Just horrendous. I wanted to turn off my TV. I was also disappointed at Alexis, who is a favorite of mine.
Danny and Lil (you know the judge's pets) did quite good, and even though the judges didn't exactly go easy on them this week, their "frontrunner" status is making me sick of them just a bit.
Scott did better than that sad attempt of a performance last week while Michael was just a tad forgetable. And finally, Allison did quite good. Not spectacular, but relative to the rest, very good.
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3-18-2009 @ 8:09AM
b0bsgirl said...
Ring of fire, Wow, maybe you have to be from the Vietnam era, but I loved it. Remember the Doors, The Beatles in their Mahesh Yogi period? I think John Lennon would have loved this.
3-18-2009 @ 3:48PM
ORKMommy said...
When Adam was singing all I could think of was Jim Morrison! I thought it was amazing!
Granted, it was a completely different version than the original but aren't these people supposed to "make it their own"?
3-18-2009 @ 1:33AM
Dawn said...
Jane ~ Adam's performance was compared to the song "Kashmir" (not cashmere) by Led Zeppelin. It was a surprisingly insightful connection from Paula...
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3-18-2009 @ 2:22AM
orionsl59 said...
Did anyone pick up on what scott said about being at the bottom of the hat picks for the last two weeks? Is that the method they pick their songs?
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3-19-2009 @ 9:22AM
chriscraig said...
they draw a number for who gets to pick thier song first, so if he drew number 11 he would have to wait until everyone picked thier songs before he could pick his.
3-18-2009 @ 3:11PM
Jane Boursaw said...
Dawn - Thank you! Shows how well I know my Zeppelin (not). I thought it was just a funny play on words.
Orions - I wondered about the hat pick thing, too. So it sounds like they're somewhat limited on their song choices...?
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3-18-2009 @ 7:20AM
Lisa said...
I actually enjoyed everyone this week, well, except Adam, no one messes with my favorite Johnny Cash anthem. Despite the Ring of Fire love, I am not a huge country fan but wow, they all chose well. It is funny that one of the weaker performances was from the country native, Michael. I think he may be in trouble.
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3-18-2009 @ 7:42AM
Nornny said...
They've always been limited on their song choices, somewhat. From what former Idols have said in interviews, they're given a song list at the beginning of each week. They can request other songs, but those songs have to "clear" by the original artists/recording companies before it can be performed on live television. It's difficult to get songs to clear.
If you select the same song as someone else, it goes to a hatpick as to who gets it. I think this is a fairly new rule as I know in the past, we've had the same song choices in the same episode.
Knowing what we know about Scott, he probably lost a hatpick to the Carrie songs being performed or some of the other ballads performed last night.
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3-18-2009 @ 7:55AM
Jimmy said...
A strange show with a bit of a leveling effect. Anoop was my pre-show pick to leave, but he definitely redeemed himself. Conversely, Lil and Alexis showed some vulnerability I didn't expect.
The best performances for me were Matt and Kris. The worst were Megan and Alexis, but they're both safe.
My prediction: Michael needs to pack his hard hat.
A couple random thoughts:
* Paula's comments to Scott were ridiculous. What does she want him do -- come out and dance? Sit on a stool? Stay behind the piano, Scott. You've only got a few weeks left anyway -- stick with what you do best.
* Kara is getting more and more annoying every week.
* "To Make You Feel My Love" was written by Bob Dylan. And Billy Joel recorded it before Garth Brooks.
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3-18-2009 @ 1:26PM
rebjack said...
Right on about Kara! she was ridiculous from the begining.
So irritating. Everyone only listens to simon anyway. He's the only one with valid comments.
3-18-2009 @ 8:52AM
Karen said...
I think Scott should go home. I think he has the weakest voice.
I also cannot remember the last guy to save my life. What is his name? I still mix him up with the first guy. I can't remember EITHER of them.
Meghans quirky movements are not growing on me. They drive me nuts. I did love her make up last night though.
And I loved Adam's version of Ring of Fire although I think he dissed country a little more than he had to. Personally, my one and only visit to the Grand Ol' Opry put me to sleep, but there is a difference between saying you obviously aren't a country music person and a snotty dismissal of the genre.
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3-18-2009 @ 9:07AM
babs said...
My thoughts:
Michael has a nice voice but not the best here. He needs to WOW every week to stay in and he didnt do so last night so he will probably be one of the bottom three
Lil did exactly what was expected - she sang a country song country not only thtat she did a wonderful job Lil and Allison are the top females here and should be in the top 5.
Alexis - i like her alot but unless she does better than last night- she wont be around long! I think she can get into the top 5 spot but she'll have to work harder to get it.
Allison- is EXCELLENT She is confident likeable is hip and current along with a killer voice. No matter what happens at AI she can go on to be BIG!
Matt and Kris- wow where did these guys come from! I loved them both and either one can end up in the top 5
Megan- I do not like her at all She is a great looking woman but I can never feel her singing, cant hear her voice, and can not understand why the judges liked her at all. Maybe she comes across better in person than on TV
Annop did wel last night but I still dont see the big deal with him Yes they all have nice voices but ..... Star voices no not Annop
Adam - this kid has a voice but he needs to stop the entertaining bit and get into the singing more. He is very marketable and I really did like him last night - kinda David Bowie thing. I cant think of a time I havent liked him
Danny- I love this guy too Liked everything he has done and he should be in top 5
Scott - what a nice voice but again in the same league as Allison Adam or Danny- I dont think so- Having said that -I think he does well every week
having said all of this- top 5 are Lil Adam Allison and Danny ( in no order) with the last spot to Alexis or Kris or Matt. Going home tonight Michael but I wish it was Megan
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3-18-2009 @ 9:13AM
SadOldMan said...
The blind guy lost a hat draw to Gokey two weeks in a row? How hard was that for AI to rig. Poor guy.
Unfortunately, one of the three white girls is going home, according to DI.
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3-18-2009 @ 9:32AM
David said...
Sometimes I feel like I'm in the Twilight Zone. What is it with people's fascination with Adam? That had to be one of the most excruciating performances I've ever seen on Idol. At least you could laugh at how bad Sanjaya was. Ring of Fire was practically unwatchable.
I also wanted to punch him in the face when he acted so disrespectfully towards Randy Travis and made his little comment about not planning on visiting Nashville anytime soon. What a bad attitude.
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3-18-2009 @ 1:08PM
Scott said...
One man's trash is another man's treasure. From an artistic and creative (and musical) perspective, Adam's was the performance of the night... as is evidenced by the fact that he's the one everybody's talking about today. LOL
3-18-2009 @ 9:34PM
Laura said...
I have to agree with you. I love Jim Morrison and I didn't think of him when I watched Adam's performance. I thought the whole performance was very musical theater.
I thought this was supposed to be a singing competition not an "eyes" competition.
3-18-2009 @ 9:51AM
babs said...
Prediction- The judges will not use their "Stay in the Running card" tonight.They will only use it ,if for some odd reason, Danny, Lil Adam or Allison go too soon Maybe for Alexis too but not sure about her They do seem to like Matt and Kris too but tonight megan or Michael or Scott will go and I doubt the judges will use it on them.
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3-18-2009 @ 10:18AM
Sigma982 said...
I also do NOT get the whole Adam thing AT ALL. If this was Rock Star:Supernova, or American Idol: 80's Hair Band Edition, then yes, he's perfect. But for this, he's probably the most uncomfortable and most annoying act to watch by FAR, in my opinion. I love Middle Eastern takes on music, but this was just too much. He's nowhere near marketable, either, as a solo artist. Unfortunately, there's gonna be a 90's theme, he's gonna pick a Guns&Roses song, and he'll become an AI legend. That's when I throw my TV out the window.
I think Paula's a dope with the piano comment for Scott, and I was squeamish anticipating Simon to REALLY call her out on it..good job on Simon's part to keep it vague. Although I would be strangely intrigued if Scott played without the piano, and they put up a plexiglass wall around the stage for when he sang (kinda like they do with the drum sets in small studio performances). Yes, cruel...but you know you're picturing it right now and smirking......
Dueling piano guy's great, Kris is very good, and Alison is SERIOUSLY growing on me - she's consistently on point every time, it seems.
Meghan is smokin' and cute and unique. She needs to step out of the 40's BoogieWoogieBugleBoy mode at least once in the next week or two, or she'll be in trouble. Unless she does something like a wacky version of CandyMan by Christina Aguilera...
Michael is a nice guy, but he's SOOO out of his league at this point...sucks, but he needs to go. Anoop has a great voice and I like him too, but again, out of his league.
Matt and Lil are bottom 2, with Matt going bye-bye, I think.
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3-18-2009 @ 10:22AM
codamelis said...
Overall, I though they did pretty good. I will confess to fast forwarding through that horrible song from Adam. I usually like him; he is entertaining and has a good sense of what will work for him. But last night I was so grateful that I had a DVR. Excruciating is the only word for it.
I love Megan. She has the most unique voice in this competition. Kris and Anoop really wowed me last night, too. In my opinion, either Michael or Scott will be eliminated tonight. I like them both, but there are other heavy favorites that will probably give them the boot.
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