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Access Atlanta > American Idol Buzz > Archives > 2008 > February > 19 > Entry
2/19: The 12 guys compete (and another ATL connection)
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I just heard (and got confirmation) that Asia’h Epperson, one of my early favorites also lived in Marietta for four years at one point in her life, probably at the same time as Carly Smithson! Sheesh! Hopefully, I’ll get to talk to her at some point. She’s got a great shot of making the top 12 based on what we’ve seen so far.
Before we get to the meat of the action, you may or may not have seen that iTunes will be the exclusive provider of “Idol” music but they won’t reveal sales figures, as not to “influence” the voting. Uh huh. (Ryan pimps the connection twice.)
It was a good night, not quite as good as I had expected given the lofty advance notice of these 12. Part of it may have been the limited 50 songs they had to choose from. (No Beatles, no Rolling Stones, no Supremes, et. al). It was far better than a year ago. (I read my account from that night and it wasn’t pretty.)
Who will go home? Jason Yeager and Luke Menard were both ignored early on by the producers and their vocals did nothing to break through. Zzzz… in both cases.
I didn’t have a clear favorite but I liked the top 3 about equally. I have to Castro the stop spot simply because he is truly an underdog. Danny’s over-the-top Elvis places him near the bottom for me but he will survive Sanjaya-style. The top 12 in order for me: Jason Castro, David Cook, Michael Johns, David Hernandez, David Archuleta, Colton Berry, Robbie Carrico, Garrett Haley, Chikezie Ezie, Jason Yeager, Danny Noriega, Luke Mernard.
David Hernandez (“In the Midnight Hour” Wilson Pickett) — He already did a 60s song for his first audition. Raised by single mom in Glendale, Ariz. — same city as Jordin Sparks. Simon was the skeptic. I think he has an amazingly pure voice. At this stage in the competition being first is bad but not fatal. Being second is worse. Does he have the stage presence? I’m not 100% sure. But he’s a solid singer, far better than many past top 12 contestants (including most if not all of last year’s men.) “I like the gospel thing in the front,” Randy said. “Fell a little apart at the end. Watch the long phrasing.” Paula: “It’s lovely. Perfect vibrato.” Simon: “It was better than I thought it was going to be. Beginning was terrific. Middle was rabbit in headlights. You have to loosen up a bit.” (Agreed.)
Chikezie Ezie (“I Love You More Today Than Yesterday” Spiral Staircase) He sang second. He made it to Hollywood a year earlier. He improved this year. He’s got a great voice but it was kind of boring. Maybe it was the song. Or maybe it’s him. Hard to say at this point. Randy: “It was pretty good. The only problem is you’re an old-fashioned singer… make it new, fresh, young.” Paula: “You’ve come a long way.” Simon (calls him jacuzzi): “I hated the whole performance. The suit is hideous. [Chikezie tries to talk back.] The wink was hideous. It was old-fashioned, corny, cheesy. This could have been something we filmed 40 years ago.”
David Cook (“So Happy Together” Turtles) He goes third. A bartender and musician from Missouri, he said he had no clue what that Simon term “worthy” meant in the first audition. I don’t particularly like his rocker looks but he does a fine job with this classic Turtles song. He’s less cheesy than, say, Constantine. Randy: “You worked it out making a rock joint out of ‘So Happy Together.’ It’s crazy!” Paula: “It’s worthy of great praise.” Simon: “I thought it was good. I thought you shouted the song a bit in the middle… You almost made it believable.”
Jason Yeager (“Moon River” Andy Williams) He sang fourth. He’s a 28-year-old singing server from Texas with a son. They give him an extended opening segment focused on said son. What an old-fashioned song. He does nothing to modernize it. He has a fair amount of charms and good looks, as well as solid vocal ability. Is that enough this year? I’m not sure. Randy: “All you guys can blow. You had a couple of problems pitchwise. Never lose concentration.” Paula: “I have such sentimental value to that song. I did my first ballet recital to that song.” [That was dedicated to my grandmother, Jason said. Awww…] Simon: “I bought my first puppy to that song. You came much older [than 28.] It was very cruise ship.”
Robbie Carrico (“One (Is the Loneliest Number) by Three Dog Night) He went fifth. Britney’s ex is all rocked out. “I was in an boy-girl group and toured with Britney Spearks,” he said. “I wanted to do rock bad.” It was good. He was a little nervous but did alright. Randy: “A nice version. You had me rockin’ out.” Paula: “You picked the perfect song. You are authentic.” Simon: “The only performance we’ve seen tonight that felt current. I’m struggling with the authenticity.” He doesn’t seem as authentic as Bo but more authentic than Constantine.
David Archuleta (“Shop Around” Smokey Robinson) He sang sixth. The former “Star Search” winner seemed liked a happy-go-lucky kid. He’s going to get the teen vote! There’s an impressive depth in his voice for his age. He’s clearly a pro. Randy: “I thought that was really brilliant. You were born with a gift.” Paula: “I feel that was a brave and bold choice.” Simon: “When you got it you got it. That was by a comfortable best performance of the night so far.”
Danny Noriega (“Jailhouse Rock” Elvis) He sang seventh. This kid annoyed me from the get go. He does like to bug his eyes out! He made it to Hollywood a year earlier like Chikeze. This was a high-risk song. Didn’t Taylor Hicks do this at one point? Danny seems a wee bit young to be doing this mediocre Elvis imitation, but it’s hard to deny a great voice. Randy: “You know how to have a good time.” Paula: “It was very warm, almost scalding. This was a safer song which allowed you to be a performer.” Simon: “I don’t understand a word you just said [about her colors.] It was verging on grotesque.” And wait—isn’t this song from the ’50s???
Luke Menard (“Everybody’s Talking At Me”- Harry Nilsson ) He sings eighth. We never saw him before. He’s a carpet cleaner and he was also someone who auditioned a year earlier. He was cut in Memphis. He’s got movie star looks. He’s got a bit of that Ace Young soprano vocals. He starts a bit slow with a very soft rock snoozer of a tune. But he picks it up midway, then slides back to way too mellow. Way too mellow. Randy: “For me, that song, it was very pitchy. It was almost consistently sharp.” Paula: “I am going to agree. I didn’t feel this was the best song choice for you. You have Kenny Loggins tenderness to your voice.” Simon: “Your problem was, it was forgettable. Nobody is going to remember that as being a great performance or great vocal.” He’s toast.
Colton Berry (“Suspicious Minds” Elvis) He sings ninth. Earlier, he gets some airtime during the Coke segment. “During certain angles I look like Ellen DeGeneres,” he said. Boy, that’s going to build his fan base! When he gets nervous, he sings the Teletubbies theme song. He’s the one who got the spot Kyle Ensley might have gotten. He’s a perfectly adequate singer and has some charm. He sounds better as he goes along. Randy: “You did a pretty good song. Started a little rough but by the end you were feeling your way.” Paula “It’s nice to see a different side of you. We’ve heard the ballads.” Simon: “It was okay. It wasn’t quite as bad as the other Elvis song. The whole idea is to find a recording artist. What did I get? Nothing. You have no relevance in today’s chart. Young kid singing an Elvis song.” I agree with Simon.
Garrett Haley (“Breaking Up Is Hard To Do” Neil Sedaka) He sings 10th. He’s one of those we haven’t seen or heard yet. He is compared to Leif Garrett and Peter Frampton with his big hair. He’s cute and tried out on a lark while vacationing in San Diego. He is one of those truly inexperienced ones. That alone would make me root for him before I even hear him. As for song choice, didn’t we retire Neil Sedaka songs years ago when he was the guest judge? Ugh! Vocally, he could be Leif Garrett redux, too. He’s likable and he does what he could with a lame song. Will this make him stand out? No. But fortunately for him, there were less memorable performances that may save him an extra week. Randy: “You didn’t do anything with it. Don’t be afraid to make it your own.” Paula: “If you stay at that slow tempo, it brings the performance down.” Simon: “It was boring. Your voice sounded a bit whiny. You looked terrified.” It wasn’t that bad. But I agree that it felt old.
Jason Castro (“Daydream” Lovin’ Spoonful) He sang eleventh. He is the first one to opt for an instrument - a guitar! And he’s one of the six guys we barely saw. He’s the dude with the dreads who is a drummer and only has sung publicly a few times before this. He picks a sweet pop song by Lovin’ Spoonful. I like this dude. He has a quiet confidence and ease about him. He’s the best of the crew we haven’t seen much of despite a little vocal shakiness at the end. Randy: “Little pitch problems like that high note at the end.” Paula “You did blow me away.” Simon: “That was in the top two performances of the night. You like David have got it. Great choice of song. You made it sound current.”
Michael Johns (“Light My Fire” Doors ) Our former Buckhead boy from Australia gets the driver’s seat spot, the 12th position, the pole position that virtually guarantees him survival at this stage. The producers give what they usually think is the most powerful or upbeat performance the end spot. Oddly, he’s citing Atlanta, not Los Angeles, as his home. Okay, so he’s no Jim Morrison. (Morrison wouldn’t wear a scarf on stage.) But he’s really good and the type of guy who is clearly marketable. Watch the praise cascade down: “You just throw all caution to the wind. You sing great. I see a true legend rock performer. You’re like a Michael Hutchence.” Paula: “Excellent way to end the night.” Simon: “I would say you are the most consistent contestant we’ve had… You have the natural charisma of a lead singer.”
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By Mike S
February 19, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this
ALright!! Time to get down to business…. less than an hour and a half.. WOOT!
By ,,,=^..^=,,, from home
February 19, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this
LOL hey Mike, good to see you’re here! we count on you for analysis and critique!!! {{{{{{MikeS}}}}}} and Mrs. Mike, too!!!
By Deirdre
February 19, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this
I’m in the Idol Zone and ready to go…Mike, it’s a good thing you’re here because I know linny and I would hate to do this without you!!!!
By War Eagle (from home)
February 19, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this
I’m here but i’m a little medicated so I probably won’t participate much. ya’ll have fun and enjoy guy’s night.
By Mike S
February 19, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this
For those who don’t know yet - AI is doing Theme’s during the semifinal rounds this year. This week is “Songs of the 60’s”. SO Deirdre, Linny and I should be in heaven!!!
By Deirdre
February 19, 2008 7:43 PM | Link to this
Rodney told us about the theme a few days ago…I love the 60’s! Well, what’s not to love!?
WE, sorry you’re not feeling well…you’ve been coming down with something for a few days now. Tape the show in case you fall asleep. Hope you’re feeling better in the morning…I know you don’t want to miss the girls.
I’ll be on during some commercials and after the show!
By Flats
February 19, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this
I’m here too D!
By Penny Evans
February 19, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this
Colton Looks Exactly like “Ellen Degenerous” He won’t make it but it will be said on “The Ellen Show” that “we look alike”!
Single mom with two daughters would sooo LOVE to be at one of the shows. Simon you tell it like it is, the way it should be told. Thanks for being and keeping it real.
Penny
By Jim
February 19, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this
Is it me or did Colton look like Hermey, the boy who wanted to be a dentist on Rudolph the rednosed reindeer?
By Angela
February 19, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
Does Garrett Haley remind anyone else of Leif Garrett? My Husband didn’t see it until I googled Leif and then he completely agreed.
By War Eagle (from home)
February 19, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this
Didn’t live up to the hype. Bring on the real talent; the ladies.
Good Night
By Deirdre
February 19, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this
3.David Hernandez
Jason Castro
David Cook
6.Robbie Carrico
7.Danny Noriega
Jason Yaegar
Luke Menard
10.Colton Berry
11.Garrett Haley
12.Chikezie
By Mike S
February 19, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this
OK they have hyped the best top 24 ever for weeks, and I am sorry but tonight was totally UNDERWHELMING!
There were some very good performances, but overall it was a boring night of safe and weak song choices in a genre that had a lot of promise.
Simon was especially brutal, and Paula was bordering on incomprehensible. She was so wasted tonight it wasn’t even funny.
Anyway on to the ratings:
Michael Johns - Light My Fire - The performance of the evening, head and shoulders above everyone else. Definate championship contender.
David Archuletta - Shop Around - The kid is just so damn cute, and looks like he is having a blast up there. Plus he was excellent vocally.
Robbie Carrico - One - In one word, GREAT! Excellent vocal, good take on the song. He will be a factor throughout the season.
Jason Castro - Daydream - Ok is it just me, or does he give off a little “welcome back Kotter” John travolta vibe. Great vocal. I really liked it.
David Cook - So Happy Together - I was with Randy on this one, when he started I was thinking “Oh god what a mistake”, but by the end of the song I was hooked.
David Hernandez - In The Midnight Hour - Good performance, good but not great. Will be hurt by going first, but I think he is a solid top 12 shot.
Coltan Berry - Suspicious Minds - Now starts the also rans. not bad, but nothing special. Coltan has a nice voice, but not memorable at all.
Chikezie - I love you More Today - Wrong song choice. Chikezie gets 8th because someone has to go here and he didn’t suck as bad as the rest.
Jason Yeager - Moon River - Really does have a good voice, but what a SNOOZER of a song. He knew he had no screen time and had to do something special to stand out, and he did not step up to the plate.
Luke menard - Echoes of My Mind — More like Echoes of a chance to stand out blown completely. Not good , not good at all.
Danny Noriega - Jailhouse Rock - Ok I will admit I have Danny down this low because the arrogant little snot just annoyus the hell out of me. His performance was just hideaous enough and over the top to give me even more reason to put him down here. I am with Simon - GHASTLY!!!
Garrett Haley - Breaking Up Is Hard To Do - but getting voted off is easy to do, and that is exactly what will happen here. Easily the worst of the night.
OK - I think Chikezie, Luke and Garrett have to really be worried. I think Danny may have enough little girls and old ladies conned into keeping him around. Chikezie might benefit a little from exposure in the earlier episodes.
BYE BYE Garrett and Luke.
By Justin
February 19, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this
So yeah gotta be honest I didn’t really like it tonight, and I think tomorrow will be SO much better…I think we know the girls more than the guys also…by the way i’ve called in on about 6 of them and only david archuleta and michael have been busy.. hm…
So…which 2 may go? That’s really a tough decision…couldn’t we let go of like 6 of them LOLL!! Seriously though I actually haven’t a clue because there are about half of them that should leave.
By Hilary
February 19, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
Am I the only one who found it totally uncomfortable to watch Garrett. Ugh. I was hearing Simon loud and clear on that one.
I love Jason Castro. But Michael Johns is definitely the star!
By Mike S
February 19, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this
I forgot to put jason Yeager in the group with Chikezie, Luke and Garrett as being in danger of being voted off.
I think chikezie will survive, garrett is gone and the final boot off spot will come down to Luke or jason.
By Tracy
February 19, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this
I thought Michael and David Archuleta stole the show tonight. They were defintely the best. Hmm the oldest and yougest contestants. Intersting.
I liked Robbie and Jason Castro as well. I’ve seen Jason before. He was on an MTV show and on Cheyenne Kimball’s music video.
Anyways Garrett and Luke were not good at all. Totally boring. They should definitely go.
By Justin
February 20, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this
Anyways my rank:
By Kylie
February 20, 2008 12:53 AM | Link to this
I just hope that Danny N. gets voted off quick. He is this years Sanjaya. I don’t believe that they put him on here instead of Josiah.
Tanning lotion Directory
By JTesla
February 20, 2008 1:07 AM | Link to this
I agree with most people regarding Danny N., he has got to go. Last year if I remember we didn’t get “Sanjaya” until the top 12. This year we get annoying and arrogant yet without the talent to back it from the start.
By Negativo
February 20, 2008 1:08 AM | Link to this
OK, I think Simon was clearly being the premeditated dick. The boys were really, really strong and he blasted almost everybody. Totally staged in my book.
Anyway, here’s my rankings.
Robbie Carrico. He was absolutely awesome. This guy is extremely talented, great on stage, and a very solid rocker. Loved the way he sneered at Ryan when he told him he looked like Timberlake, too.
Michael Johns. Talent, talent, talent. He is truly a force.
David Archuletta. Love the voice and stage presence, but a bit too cutesy for my taste.
David Hernandez. Not sure what this guy did to p** Simon off so badly, but he has got an incredible voice. A bit too stiff on stage, but a great, great singer.
Jason Yeager. I know he was a bit boring, but the guy has a great voice and impressed me with his cool, effortless stage presence. Not the greatest song choice.
Jason Castro. A bit mediocre on the vocals, but great stage presence and likability.
David Cook. Slow start and looked a bit stoned. Still, he picked it up and gave a pretty solid performance.
Garrett Haley. I thought Neil Sedaka was a perfect choice for his vocal range. I actually enjoyed his singing, but would have liked to see him let it all out more.
9.Danny Noriega. Very kareoke, but he sang pretty well and gave iot his all. He seems very Sanjaya-like to me.
Luke Menard. Sang entire song at least one octave too high. Other than that, zzzzz…
Jacuzzi. Beginning was absolutely horrendous vocally, and his song arrangement even worse. The vocals improved as he went along, but will it be enough to save him?
Colt Berry. Forgettable and amateur.
By heybud
February 20, 2008 1:49 AM | Link to this
Like many others have written this evening, I did not think tonight’s performance on the whole lived up to my (probably unreasonable) expectations.
However, I thought some of the performances that were pretty good.
Unfortunately as is usually the case some undeserving folks will make it through to the final 12 and perhaps further at the expense of more deserving people.
I would not be surprised at all if both Danny and Garrett make the final 12. Certainly, there’s no doubt in my mind that one of them will make it final 12.
Remember who the primary audience is for this show - young girls.
Here are my personal rankings for tonight’s performances (without bias (I really don’t like Danny and personally would have him at the bottom, but his performance was better than Chikezie, Luke, Jason, and Garrett - all of whom I found much more likeable)):
Michael Johns Robbie Carrico David Archuleta David Cook David Hernandez Jason Castro Colton Berry Danny Noriega Chikezie Eze Garrett Haley Jason Yeager Luke Menard
I realize this is early, but at this point I like the following six in order of personal preference:
Michael Johns Robbie Carrico David Archuleta David Cook Chikezie Eze Jason Castro
But I think the following guys are more likely in order of predicted likelihood:
Michael Johns David Archuleta Chikezie Eze Jason Castro Danny Noriega or Garrett Haley Colton Berry
By VegasBaby
February 20, 2008 2:21 AM | Link to this
Rod and I have the same top half, although I don’t rank David Hernandez as high. He has a great voice, but he was too stiff on stage. My favorites of the night were Michael Johns (he is seriously hot), David Archuleta (so soulful for 17) and Jason Castro (a very charming and likable performance … and what a great smile). I was surprisingly impressed at some of the talent tonight, but there were stinkers and snoozers, too. I think Luke (I think that’s his name) looks like Orlando Bloom, which helps him (although he’ll probably go home)!
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 7:51 AM | Link to this
Good morning mushblogians!
So glad to see Negativo back with his much welcomed snark! :-)
I enjoyed the show last night. Good singers, mostly.
Chikezie and Luke were off-key for most of their songs…I’m going to chalk that up to nerves and give them one more week.
Sad little Garrett and Ellen-like Colton are on my leaving list. I agree with the comments about Danny but would like to actually hear him sing instead of bouncing and yelling and Elvis song…I’d like him to get one more week as well.
Top 6 for me were just about the same as everybody else.
Michael Johns has star quality, a good voice and looks. He needs to work on his physical presentation of a song and more connection with the audience.
David Archuleta has a great voice and stage presence. He wouldn’t even need that for the first round or so…he’s so totally adorable and irresistible that he’d get votes whether he could sing or not. My problem with him is the ‘aw shucks, I’m having so much fun, no kidding, you really like me’ attitude will eventually wear really thin for some audience members and his votes will…eventually…start to dwindle.
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 7:55 AM | Link to this
The next three on my list would be Jason Castro, David Hernandez and Robbie Carrico.
The last slot could go to either David Cook(who did not shine for me last night) or Danny Noriega depending on the voters’ mood and who VFTW wants their following to vote for.
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 8:04 AM | Link to this
Rodney, Mr Hollywood told me last night that LA has a new lease on life, everything seems to be moving in high gear and he wouldn’t be surprised if almost all the shows were back even earlier than predicted. He said rumor abound that many shows already have completed scripts from writers who were still working(under wraps) during the strike.
And he called after 10pm EST because he KNEW Idol was on and I’d scream!!!!!
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 8:09 AM | Link to this
Just as I suspected…VFTW has picked Danny Noriega.
By Mike S
February 20, 2008 8:16 AM | Link to this
Here is how Dial Idol sees last nights results. REMEMBER - Dial Idol is usually pretty unpredictable at this point, and only DEFINATELY SAFE or DEFINATELY OFF can be trusted, everything else is wide open.
They have 3 performers SAFE : David Archuletta, Michael Johns, Jason Castro
The rest of the performers are in danger of being voted off but knowing Dial Idol from the last 4 years I feel fairly confident that the next 5 performers will be around next week : Danny Noriega, David hernandez, Jason Yeager, Robbie Carrico, Luke Menard.
While the above 5 are said to be in danger there was a sharp drop off from thier scores to the bottom 4 : David Cook, Colton Berry, Chikezie, and Garrett Haley
Of those 4 - Garrett is WAY BEHIND and I feel pretty safe in calling him GONE. But, you throw a blanket over David C, Colton, and Chikezie - it could be any one of those 3 as the second vote off tomorrow night.
By Mike S
February 20, 2008 8:24 AM | Link to this
While the orders may be a little different, for the most part all of us have the same top 6 : Michael Johns, David Arculetta, jason Castro, Robbie Carrico, David hernandez, David Cook.
A couple people had Danny or Colton up there, but mostly it was the above 6 across the board.
I agree with D though, I have the feeling Danny is going to be around annoying the hell out of us for some time. UGH.
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this
Thanks for that, Mike. I forgot all about dialidol! The garbage dump i call my mind is completely disorganized!!!
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 8:36 AM | Link to this
My previous statement will post twice cuz I tried to add something after I hit the post button.
Rodney…I don’t think it’s odd that Michael Johns has picked Atlanta as his home. He lived here for a long time and LA is notorious for not getting on the contestant bandwagon. That was a very smart venue change.
By flats
February 20, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this
Good morning all good people..I loved all the people that put it on the line last night!That rocker boy can really do his thang!
By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
February 20, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this
My rankings (sorry i’m so late, hubby wanted to socialize with me after the show last night smirk)
1-(tie)Michael Johns and David Archuleta. i agree with most of the comments about these two. strange contrast, the pro and the kid, but they’re both darned good… 3.Robbie Carrico-really close to putting him with Michael and David A, but he’s not quite there 4. Jason Castro-just like him 5.Jason Yaegar-i know most of you didn’t like this, but being an old Andy Williams fan via my mom, I was very impressed with his MUSICAL ability and handling of such a song. Moon River is a classic, and it’s a true love song, so it’s gonna be, traditionally, a bit slower. 6.David Hernandez-no comment, he’s not my fave by a long shot 7.Chikezie-i just like him, what can i say 8.Garrett Haley—not impressed with Leif Garrett Jr, looks or personality, but if you closed your eyes and just listened, he has a VERY VERY good vocal talent and quality to his voice. But …. meh 9.Danny Noriega-y’all have about covered the feelings here… i only put him above the next 3 because he DOES Have a little bit of talent, but there was one point near the beginning of the show they did a shot of him and i actually THOUGHT it was Sanjaya. shiver 10.Luke Menard-just didn’t cut it for me 11.Colton Berry-never have been much impressed with this one 12.David Cook-just felt he was blah
By War Eagle (from home)
February 20, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this
Morning All. I decided to stay home today and try and whip this cold.
I agree that Simon was unusually hard on some of the guys last night. I wonder if it was because of the reviews from the audition rounds that he had been a lot softer than before?
By flats
February 20, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this
We are so excited about idol coming to spartanburg…cant wait!!!
By Justin
February 20, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this
YES! Please vote Danny off I know little girls he is a decent singer but he WILL be the next Sanjaya just the way he acts and I hate it and I do not want this to happen again where my favorites are voted off because of him… ok i’m done lol
By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
February 20, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this
Oh. One more comment. A lot of you complained about the show last night as far as not being a WOW show…remember that the kids were relegated to a time in music that really WASN’T all that “exciting”, especially the earlier years of that decade… Moon River and such songs were HUGE hits… Elvis was not as great as in the 50s to a lot of folks… and the british and san francisco sounds didn’t REALLY take hold until later in the decade, and you notice we didn’t get a single “I wanna hold your haaaaaand” or “Louie Louie”… there was a LOT of music i’ll bet was not available to BE sung by the kids….
it WILL be interesting to see what the girls do, because the 60s did have quite a few breakout female soloists… not that many of them LASTED, mind you…
except of course in R&B/Soul … wonder if one of the gals will do Nancy SInatra’s big ol’ Boots song, snicker
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this
WE…hope you feel better soon!
On Danny Noriega….he will NOT be voted off and will very likely make the top 12 thanks to VFTW. The ONLY way to counteract this…well we really can’t in the semi-finals but..we have to VOTE.
By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
February 20, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this
and it STILL would have been great to have seen the actual list they were allowed to CHOOSE from!
imho
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this
I agree linny. Rodney said he thought there was a list of 50 songs to choose from….unless the guys and girls are singing the same songs, that doesn’t leave much leeway for song choice.
And Moon River was and still is one of my favorite songs…it’s just beautiful. I though Jason Yaegar did a good job with it but it DID sound ‘cruise ship’ as Simon said.
By War Eagle (from home)
February 20, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this
Thanks D, I’m feeling better this morning.
My input on Danny N. As I was watching last night in a semi- comatose state; through squinted eyes, I could almost see Sanjaya with that creepy mo-hawk. The voice was better but please no, don’t do it to us again.
I wonder at what point in the show last year did VFTW start backing Sanjaya?
By flats
February 20, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this
Justin..:-(
By Pen
February 20, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this
I just flipped through the performances from last night and here are my top and bottom:
David A. - He may be cutesy and have the teen vote, but he has real talent too.
David Cook - Don’t care for his look, but his vocals and stage presence were very good.
Bottom: 11. Chikezie Ezie - Looks like a nice guy, but the performance was boring, nothing original and the suit was indeed hideous!
I much add my opinion of Luke. WOWZA in the looks department. I could stare at that face all day! He reminded me of Dan Fogelberg and Kenny Loggins. I really enjoyed it, but it wasn’t original. I sure hope he gets another chance.
By flats
February 20, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this
PEEPS?
By Mike S
February 20, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this
Interesting tidbit from RealityTV.com - probably means nothing, but last night there were only ELEVEN Girls sitting in the “top 12” area. Carly Smithson was not there.
Also, they pointed out that Kristi Lee Cook may ba Ill. She was wearing a thick scarf around her neck (keeps the vocal cords warm — you will see Michael Johns wearing one a lot too) and she left before the show ended.
By Mike S
February 20, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this
Interesting tidbit from RealityTV.com - probably means nothing, but last night there were only ELEVEN Girls sitting in the “top 12” area. Carly Smithson was not there.
Also, they pointed out that Kristi Lee Cook may ba Ill. She was wearing a thick scarf around her neck (keeps the vocal cords warm — you will see Michael Johns wearing one a lot too) and she left before the show ended.
By War Eagle (from home)
February 20, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this
Ooh oh yeah yeah, Oh what a night It’s ladies night
This is your night tonight, Everything is going to be alright This is your night tonight, C’mon girls
Girls, we’ve all got one A night that’s special everywhere From New York to Hollywood It’s ladies night and girl The feeling’s good
Oh yes, it’s ladies night And the feeling’s right Oh yes, it’s ladies night Oh what a night (oh what a night)
Oh yes, it’s ladies night And the feeling’s right Oh yes, it’s ladies night Oh what a night (oh what a night)
This is your night tonight, everything’ s gonna be alright This is your night tonight, everything’ s gonna be alright
Romantic lady, ooh oh yeah, single baby Mm sophisticated mama (woooooh) Come on you disco baby, yeah, yeah Stay with me tonight
If you hear any noise It ain’t the boys, it’s ladies night, shhh, uh huh Come on girls
By Shay
February 20, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this
I wouldn’t say it is necessary that the girls be there Tuesday night, especially if there was a family emergency or illness going on. As long as they can pull it together for 2 hours tonight, I don’t think Idol would make that big of a deal about. Mike, I didn’t read too much into Carly not being there last night. It was the guys night and she probably had permission to be away.
Oh, and I was wondering why Michael Johns was sporting a scarf last night. I need to get me one. Preserving the voice for when I need to holler at the kids is reason enough. By the time I holler, “don’t dive off that coffee table”, my voice is already shot from cursing my clients a work :-)
So I will be heading to my local Wal-mart this weekend.
By flats
February 20, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this
LOST?
By Mikki
February 20, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this
Yes, he’s a little flamboyant, but Danny Noriega is definitely not the worst of the bunch.
And is it just me, or do you hate when they talk back to Simon after he criticizes them? I hate that!
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this
I noticed that the right number of girls didn’t seem to be there…and they usually spend more time showing them. If sickness is sweeping through the ranks, we may see a postponement. Michael didn’t look, sound or act sick last night…I think the scarf was for decoration.
However, they all seemed really nervous last night. heaven knows, they have good reason to be…just being on the show. But some of them being sick would add to the nervousness.
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this
Mikki, I agree. I didn’t think Danny was the worst at all.
And yes, talking back when you’ve been given constructive criticism is foolhardy. Seems to me, a contestant is there to learn, not to disagree with the judges.
By Shay
February 20, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this
D, I think that adding a themed night made them nervous. First time on a big stage and they can’t even choose a song to their confort level?? That would have me shaking in my boots too!!
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this
You’re probably right, Shay. The theme idea makes it a little fairer for the less experienced. I think!
By JTesla
February 20, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this
Hey War Eagle, to try and answer your earlier question… VFTW didn’t peg Sanjaya until later in the competition. I remember they opted to support Sundance, who was promptly voted off. If the last two years have been any indication VFTW doesn’t have as strong a showing early on as they would like to think. However, as many people have pointed out there were worst singers last night, so were going to be stuck with Danny.
By Shaun
February 20, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this
Hey Shay. Morning, or Afternoon should I say. The whole show was awful. Hope the ladies bring it tonight.
By Shay
February 20, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
If Danny didn’t look so much like Jessica Alba, I could deal with him but he just looks like a girl to me.
Sorry!
By RC
February 20, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this
D,
I agree with your pics ‘cept I put Archuletta top and Colton in place of Carrico. I think Carrico has an identity crisis goin on and it’s gonna hurt him since he’s a poppie.
The girls will blow da boyz away tonight!
Go Alex and Kady!!!
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this
Hey Shaun and RC…sorry, my hubby is hogging the computer today…the nerve!!!
I think, unless Colton does significantly better, he’ll be eliminated next week. I mean, in the guys we have an Ellen lookalike and a Jessica Alba lookalike. This will not work in their favor.
I thought last night was pretty good. There are at least 6 guys who sing better than any of last year’s group. I just saw some serious nerve issues. If they calm it down a little next week, I think you’ll be more impressed.
By GillDude15
February 20, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this
Yung Chui Yakah Luah!!!!!
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this
Shay, I think Danny will stay because I have the impression that he sings better than what we saw last night. But he DOES look like Jessica Alba! Which would be a really good thing…if he was a girl!
How about Jessica’s twin brother??? :-)
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this
Hey Gill..we missed you! Where’ve you been? No wait, let me guess…off somewhere raining on somebody else’s parade? :-)
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this
Here’s the one thing that scares me, girls (and anyone else seriously crushing on Michael Johns) Last night Simon called him the most consistent contestant. Isn’t that what he used to say about Melinda???? Didn’t Melinda lose?????????
By flats
February 20, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this
Jon micheals was really good and deserves alot of props for pimpin himself last night.
By idolbeat
February 20, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
Jason Castro was great! His is my pick for the guys but I am rooting for Alex Lushington tonight. She is not just passing through the area as Michael, Carly and Asia’h have done. With the little air time she has received, she needs all the votes she can get tonight. So, please vote for the hometown girl!
Go Alex!
By Shay
February 20, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
Melinda lost cause she had no personality and was mechanical, not cause she was consistent.
Consistency is a good thing!!
By War Eagle (from home)
February 20, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this
Shay thanks. I will never look at jessica Alba the same way again. Damn
I’m sure this comment will start riot, but last night as every other night in previous seasons the judges talk about originality and making a song your own. Michael Johns version “Light my Fire”, while an excelent performance was nothing original at all. It was almost an exact copy of Morrison. Sorry but it was. Not original at all.
By War Eagle (from home)
February 20, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this
flats, whose your favorite lady at this point?
By Making Sense
February 20, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this
So, Michael Johns AND Kristi Lee Cooks both had scarves on? They WOULD make a cute couple. Hmmm…Makes you wonder…Could they be trying to hide something (left by the other) on their necks?
By JTesla
February 20, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this
It’s funny WE, but I was thinking the same thing about Michael Johns last night until he hit a few lines that were different. I guess if you sing two lines in a different manner that makes it original.
By flats
February 20, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
Biker chick.
By kellyfan
February 20, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
Hi y’all!
I managed to watch most of the show last night…my top 2: David A. and Michael. I wanted to like Luke, but he just left me thinking “eh.”
So, boys, are we ready for tonight? I hope the girls bring it…
By flats
February 20, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this
I bet the the all The GUYS on the other blog REALLY enjoyed the show last night!!
By War Eagle (from home)
February 20, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
MS, good observation but he is married so God I hope not.
JTesla, I guess it depends on who you are if the performance must be original or not.
flats are you serious about the biker chick? She makes me want to vomit
By War Eagle (from home)
February 20, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this
hey KF. I believe we will get a little better show out of our ladies than the guys put on last night
By War Eagle (from home)
February 20, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this
hey KF. I believe we will get a little better show out of our ladies than the guys put on last night
By kellyfan
February 20, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this
LOL, WE….well, I imagine the “scenery” will def. be better. ;)
I hope that my Top 3 manage to impress tonight. Moment of Truth! (NO pun intended)
By Mike
February 20, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this
I liked Michael, Jason, the Davids (Cook, Archuleta, and Hernandez), and Robbie.. though not necessarily in that order..
I thought that Luke and Jason Yeager were SNOOOOZERS.. Gosh.. i thought at the the end of the show they were the two destined for elimination.. maybe i’ll be wrong..
i did notice there are a couple of celeb lookalikes..
Luke looks like Orlando Bloom and Danny looks like Amanda Bynes!
In fact.. going forward, I shall refer to him as a-MAN-da Bynes..
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this
Nope, Mike, Danny looks way more like Jessica Alba than Amanda Bynes!
Now that you mention it, Luke looks a lot like Orlando Bloom.
By War Eagle (from home)
February 20, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this
KF as i remember we have the same top 3 and i believe they will do fine. There are some great country classics from the 60’s but I doubt they made the list of 50.
I wonder which lady they are going to put in the “drivers seat position” as Rodney put it?
And I will predict that Cruella De Vil will come out screaming some Joplin song that was added to the 50 song list just for her.
By flats
February 20, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this
Yeah Eagle….she’s my girly girl.
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this
Bitter…bitter…bitter. You guys were falling all over yourselves about Haley last year and the girl never, ever, not even once, sang a song differently than the original artist. Not a good argument, boys!
I AM looking forward to the girls tonight because I think there are about 6 of them who can give the boys a challenge and even beat them.
I wouldn’t worry too much about Michael Johns just yet…there’s a lot of showtime left and he’s already so far up that his crash could be spectacular. Y’all can start worrying in about 8 weeks if he’s still around!
By Justin
February 20, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
Hey the order dialidol.com has for the guys is this:
—-Predicted to be safe—-
—-In Danger of being Voted Off—-
By War Eagle (from home)
February 20, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
come on flats, she is the least girly girl in the bunch.
By kellyfan
February 20, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
LOL, we do, WE. Great minds, and all.
Well, looks like this is the season of nicknames: Cruella De Vil, A-MAN-da, and I got one….CoLLEN. :)
By War Eagle (from home)
February 20, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this
The Original or make it your own is the argument that the judges especially Simon used all night long until the end. We didn’t put the words in his mouth. And I never heard anyone say that Haley could sing, it was just that the rest of the gals lacked, well they just plain lacked.
Sorry KF but I don’t get CoLLEN. Who is that?
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this
The judges use the ‘make it your own’ argument when a singer stands there like a dork and sings the song badly. Sort of a plea to do SOMETHING with the song that will make it sound better with that singer.
Michael sounded just fine(although not perfect) on Light My Fire.
Nobody sang perfectly last night but some were just plain boring. I couldn’t say that about David A., Michael, Jason C or even Robbie.
By JTesla
February 20, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this
Just to be clear there is no bitterness here… Michael is my top pick so far for the guys.
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this
OK, JT, just yanking your chain!! :-)
What’s the name of that sci-fi movie where John Travolta had the dreadlocks? I think that’s why everybody is thinking Travolta when the see Jason Castro.
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
As long as we’re doing celebrity lookalikes(are we still doing that…is anyone else here?) Does anyone else think Michael Johns looks like Timothy Daly? He’s currently on Private Practice. Used to be on that sitcom about 2 brothers who run a small air line in New England…Wings. Was on that short lived drama series about a bank robbery…The Nine…or something like that.
By flats
February 20, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this
I’M HERE D!!!
By Justin
February 20, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this
So is it just me, or is everyone predicting the girls will be much better than the guys tonight?
By kellyfan
February 20, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this
D, that Travolta movie was Battlefield Earth.
And agreed on the Tim Daly comparison. Guess this is the season of look-a-likes, huh? Carrie, Jessica Alba/A-MAN-da Bynes, Ellen, Tim Daly, Orlando Bloom/Luke Perry. Wow.
By JTesla
February 20, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
Deirdre - Yes! I knew that he looked like somebody, I was trying to place him in the music business, but that’s a good call.
Justin - I’m predicting that the girls will be 74% more female than the guys were last night. It’s too hard to predict the singing, especially since it can change from week to week.
By flats
February 20, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this
I think they do lookalike D…
By War Eagle (from home)
February 20, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
Due to the fact that there are 24 people to chose from 50 songs the producers were able to select songs that fit certain contestants. So if the others can find something decent to sing then maybe they will have a chance. It’s all about song choice.
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this
Thanks guys…thought I might be reaching a little far for the Tim Daly thing. And kf, thanks for Battlefield Earth. I kept coming up with Battlestar Galactica and I KNEW that wasn’t it!
Since I love 60’s music, I think I’ll be happy with ANY song the girls sing tonight. I enjoyed the boys for that reason last night. Memories… light the corners of my mind…misty water colored memories Uh..nevermind!
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this
Justin…the GUYS are predicting the girls will be much better tonight…and they may be…the boys were very nervous last night and it showed.
By Lucy
February 20, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this
Danny Noreiga needs to get over himself and remember it was the judges, i.e., Simon, that put him where he is at. He was awful and very irritating.
By War Eagle (from home)
February 20, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this
Lucy, I agree that the contestants should accept the praise or criticism with a smile and shut up. But Simon was a little harsh on a few last night. I wonder if the parents have to sign an agreement to not whoop his ass for being so rough on them. I know they put their self out there but it would be hard for me to hear someone talk to my daughter that way.
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this
I actually thought Danny was trying to be funny when he made that comment to Simon…Simon even smiled. I thought he had a much better sense of humor about what Simon said than Chickizie. He went a little too far in my opinion.
And yes, Simon was pretty harsh last night!
By War Eagle (from home)
February 20, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this
I felt sorry for the Garret kid when Simon made comments about his appearance. Comments about clothing or hairstyle is find but when he starts in on physical appearance that’s too much in my opinion.
By Deirdre
February 20, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this
I agree WE but at the same time, appearance is a major factor when ‘selling’ an artist and, while I hate to see those comments made in a public forum…those are the same things that kid will hear if he auditions for any of the major labels. Like it or not, we are a visual nation.
All the comments made about Melinda last year are a perfect example. A number of people on this blog didn’t want her to win because of her appearance. Didn’t matter that she sang like and angel and a devil combined…she didn’t ‘look’ right.
By ,,,=^..^=,,, from home
February 20, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this
hey guys, finally made it home, hubby’s cooking dinner and i’m prolly not going to blog tonight, or at least on until late… looking forward to what the gals might be doing….
later…
p.s. RC, Shaun, Shay, Gill, Justin, JT, etc etc etc it’s good to see you guys again, hope you’re all doing well!
peace!
By WFA
February 21, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this
Is it me or does Danny Noriega look just like Hannah Montana?
By Deirdre
February 21, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this
WFA, we’re pretty much in agreement here that Danny looks like Jessica Alba/ Amanda Bynes/Hannah Montana. However, nobody thinks he looks like a boy!