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Access Atlanta > American Idol Buzz > Archives > 2008 > February > 28 > Entry
2/28: Hometown gal Alexandrea Lushington out, plus Jason Yeager, Alaina Whitaker, Robbie Carrico
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Poor song choice helped do in Douglasville teen Alexandrea Lushington, who picked a lame Chicago song and didn’t do enough with it to survive. In the blogosphere, she was among those targeted to go home after an okay week one and a mediocre week two. She also suffered from relative lack of airtime.
“To me it’s not really the right choice, but you know, listen, here’s the problem,” Randy said. “You’re a great singer, you’ve got great skills. You just picked the wrong song. It was the wrong time for that. You need to shine every time.”
She was very stoic about her departure, no tears during the broadcast. In her farewell, she sang “If You Leave Me Now” again and actually did it with more emotion and improved upon her performance that aired Wednesday.
Her “Star Search” competitor David Archuleta was seen crying emotionally. He beat her five years ago, too. Ouch. The cameras did not close in on any of the gals crying. She went over and hugged Archuleta. Awww….
Alaina Whitaker, the Carrie Underwood lookalike, being ousted was not a surprise. She did a pageant-like version of “Hopelessly Devoted To You” and failed to distinguish herself personality wise from the other blonde gals who got more airtime. She was really torn up over it and said she couldn’t sing. Such a sweet gal. She eventually got her act together to sing Olivia Newton John one more time, with the other gals surrounding her. Despite or because of her emotional state, she did much better than Wednesday. Go figure.
Kady Malloy and Amanda Overmyer were threatened but both had enough personality (and in Amanda’s case, a good first week) to survive.
Among the guys, the first to go was Jason Yeager, who was again one of the pre-top 24 ignored ones. He simply didn’t do anything special. We won’t remember him in about three hours.
And shocking no one, the ex-Britney boyfriend/former boy band/fake rocker dude Robbie Carrico was cut, too. He was simply overshadowed by David Cook, who seems more legit in that arena. Now if only Robbie had pulled off those alleged extensions live on air! That would have made him truly memorable!
So I got three out of four right. That’s not bad after getting only two right last week.
During the group sing, was it just me or was Amanda even worse than she was yesterday? And since it was a Bonnie Tyler song, she should have hit her little portion of the song out of the park.
And as you’ve noticed, I’ve stopped reporting on www.dialidol.com numbers. I personally think with more people text messaging, it makes the issue of “busy signals” less of an issue and ultimately makes the predictions less useful.
The Fox press release sent out at midnight EST notes that Blake Lewis will perform his next single “How Many Words” on the results show March 6. His first single “Break Anotha” went nowhere.
Reality check for the semifinalists who don’t make the final 12. Paula may say this is just the beginning but how many semifinalists have done anything of note?
On a related topic:
Has there been a season where the ostensible likely winner appeared so early in the competition? (I might repeat this blog entry topic on a slower day but I’ll post it now, too.) Justin was the early fave season one before Kelly overshadowed him by week two of the competition. Ruben & Clay had the tightest battle of them all season two and nobody could predict who could pull it off at any point. Fantasia was not necessarily a lock at this stage season three with LaToya and Jennifer Hudson nipping at her heels at this stage, but by the time she did “Summertime” in the top 8, it was over. Season four, Simon nailed Carrie as the winner very very early on and he was right. Bo made a nice run but couldn’t quite reach her. Season five, Daughtry and Taylor were considered the likeliest winners at this stage but nobody could predict who would pull it off. Last year, Jordin hadn’t broken out yet at this stage and even though LaKisha had blown us out of the water with her “And I’m Not Telling You,” I don’t think folks were fully convinced she had enough range and personality to take it all the way home. I don’t think Jordin became the true contender to win until the top 10.
In other Idol news:
Nigel has finally wrangled clearance after years of trying for the Beatles catalog. Woohoo! The top 12 will sing Beatles hits. This should be good! Ryan Seacrest broke the news yesterday on his radio show.
“It’s something we’ve waited for for seven seasons now,” Idol executive producer Nigel Lythgoe told Seacrest. “Sony has agreed to release the Lennon and McCartney songbook to us.”
Next week, by the way is my decade: the ’80s! And Ruben is singing the farewell song! And for the April “Idol Gives Back” special, guests will include Mariah Carey Snoop Dogg, Daughtry, Brad Pitt, Reese Witherspoon, Miley Cyrus and Carrie Underwood.
Amanda had a DUI. yawn. TMZ reported this and Robbie Castro’s alleged extensions to make him look more like a rocker.
And it seems David Archuleta’s version of “Imagine” was closer to that of the late jazz-pop singer Eva Cassidy. Check this out:
And he apparently sang that version a couple of years ago on “Good Day Utah,” which is probably why it was so smooth and nuanced. It wasn’t like he learned that rendition 72 hours earlier. This is similar to Daughtry two years ago when he sang a cool version of Johnny Cash’s “I Walk the Line,” that was actually similar to that of Live.
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Comments
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By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
February 28, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this
Thanks Rodney - I don’t think Jordin was being looked at as a contender for the top slot until waaaay on into the show, maybe top 6? I could be wrong, last year seems a LONG time ago, right now!
By Justin
February 28, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
Robbie you’re a Idol blogger who basically pulls this thing together I think you’d be the one most likely to know the names of the contestants hey you’re close though but its Robbie Carrico not Castro, Castro = Jason.
And I just thought I’d say that I bet tonight we get some sort of shock of who leaves tonight…I think the girls need to slug it out because a majority of them should be in that top 12 but 4 need to leave yet before that stage - and if syesha leaves tonight there will be some problems. i am telling you that LOL… and even kady I just need her to do great next week if hopefully she isn’t out tonight…god that would suck
By Justin
February 28, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
See now you got me saying things wrong I mean Rodney not Robbie
By JTesla
February 28, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this
Linny, I would say that Jordin was a long shot until Melinda was given the boot, but I do remember some debate as a few people picked her as being their favorite very early.
As for the name mix up… it just goes to show how forgettable they are. I didn’t say bad, just forgettable.
By Deirdre
February 28, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this
Uh, Justin…his name is Rodney! :-)
I tried the Eva Cassidy link Rodney but it took me nowhere. I really liked her!
And I’m more than just a little excited about the Beatles songbook!
And I agree with linny about Jordin. I think she wasn’t in there until top 4 or 5.
There are a lot of people who will tell you that they KNEW Taylor was going to win the first time they saw him. I think they’re called soul Patrol! :-)
By Justin
February 28, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this
I know if you look a couple f comments before that I said I mean Rodney not Robbie… i accidentally typed Robbie probably because that is what he was messing up as Robbie Castro intead of Carrico
By Deirdre
February 28, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this
LOL! Justin…we all do it! Even Robbie..uh..Rodney!
By ,,,=^..^=,,, from home
February 28, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this
one reason i use initials, LOL!!!
By Deirdre
February 28, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this
I’d even mess up the initials, linny!
By Deirdre
February 28, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this
I DO think tonight will bring us at least one surprise! I hope it’s a good one rather than a bad one!
By Deirdre
February 28, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this
And, just like JT, I am looking forward to a particularly cheesy group sing tonight. I love the group sings…they are always entertaining!
By ,,,=^..^=,,, from home
February 28, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this
me too re group sings, lol… btw D, received Season 2 today, so i’m LOST for the weekend, LOL!
By Deirdre
February 28, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this
War Eagle and kf and I will try to keep our mouths shut about Lost tomorrow.! :-) And I want you to know just how difficult that is!
By Justin
February 28, 2008 7:08 PM | Link to this
I forgot to post my actually ranking last night so here it is (and remember it is not based on favorites…b/c i’m sure at least one of my favorites will be toward the bottom):
—————-Brief Explanation—————
By Mike S
February 28, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this
BIG DIAL IDOL NEWS!
The programmer has a thread on thier forums saying the MENS DATA is messed up.
Apparently there was a user in California that somehow got a busy signal for every single call he made for Robbie Carrico and Jason Yeager. In fact it was every single busy signal for those two from the entire state of California.
When he removed that users data the scores changed to Robbie and Jason being bottom 2 instead of 2nd and 3rd.
He has not changed the scores on the predictions page, but said he has no faith in those numbers any more.
By Deirdre
February 28, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this
Mike…to clarify…you’re talking about the dialidol dialing system only, not the actual American idol count? Did I get that right? The good news here would be if the same thing happened with Amanda Overmyer the night before.
By Flats
February 28, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this
Wow..Idol voters got ot way wrong so far!!!
By ,,,=^..^=,,, from home
February 28, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this
Well. Some surprises there. I didn’t expect it to be Alaina, and obviously, neither did she OR kady. Now, Kady, girl, get REAL… and Amanda, you’ve been given a chance, don’t BLOW it (tho’ i expect you will, sorry to say)
Sweet friendship between Alex and David A, and that hug was pure spontaneous fun. Glad she indulged! you can tell they’ve bonded over the years of competition.
Not surprised about Robbie, bye bye hon. good luck finding a niche!
for the most part, AS USUAL, the goodbye singoff was a better performance than the competition spot. Nerves, i’d say.
see you guys tomorrow!!
By Rick
February 28, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this
why is the scary girl from adams family still there? she is ugly, cant sing and fat. The hair do is like a bad dream. Some body did not get hugged enough as a child.
By ,,,=^..^=,,, from home
February 28, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this
oh yeah, sorry about Yeager, but not surprised. I think he has a lovely voice, but just not the charisma necessary to be a singer of the type that he is, at least for a competition. He might do well if he got the right spot somewhere.
By Renata
February 28, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this
Rodney, the producers are working thier magic tonight i predicted it. I sorry Alexandrea should not be going home or robbie. I believe the producers wanted to shake things ip a bit. Does anyone agree with this theory?
By Justin
February 28, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this
I’m gonna be honest I’m a bit disappointed by the results tonight…and a tiny bit shocked at the same time.
First they brought up the guys and it was between Jason and Danny and I said shoot Danny’ll be safe, which I didn’t want to happen but also I didn’t care much for Jason so…
Then it was the girls turn and it was between Amanda and Alexandrea… altogether I would have chosen Alex to be one of the girls to leave… but then again going up against Amanda it was only fair that she be safe, plus she’s such a nice-seeming girl. So I thought maybe there’d be a chance, but of course Amanda was safe and not even in the bottom 3… I’m sure next week she’ll be compared once again where one leaves, one stays… I think based on what I read that Alexandrea and David Archuleta were both in Star Search at the same time and she just lost to him…so that’s probably why he was so emotional.. i’m sure they were close.
Then it came back again with the girls and I said ok I bet Luke is safe, because it’d be boring to let his sing us out. Carly and Ramiele were safe… then it got to Syesha and woo she was safe. Then Kady and Alaina were called center and I didn’t really know what to think. I love them both but knew I prefered Kady over the both of them so I kept thinking yep, she’s gone… luckily not. So when they announced she was safe it let out a huge sigh of relief but then I was feeling really bad over Alaina leaving because she was one of my picks for the top 12 based on her 1st performance… I had originally wanted Amanda and Alex to leave so I was disappointed.
Then they came back after a break and did Idol gives back and then went to another break- whooo! so… wouldn’t it be corny to hold off eliminations again that night? I’m sure if they decide to do that they’ll tell us this time because we’d already be ahead of their game.
Then guys again finally and Luke and Robbie were up….I figured it’d be Robbie when those two were gonna be compared…hopefully Luke’s out next week. I just don’t think he is capable of doing much better than that…..and Robbie was another top 12 pick.
So overall, bum night, but 2 of my favorite girls are safe so it’s all good.
So who leaves next week? Another tough decision but I’m counting on Amanda, Luke, Danny, and……. . yeah I don’t think I can make a decision on the girls… I think it will be Kady unfortunately…so hopefully she can perform her butt off next week…because the rest of the girls are fairly good, so which one of them besides Amanda could leave?! Unpredictable…even without seeing next week’s performances… Come on Kady! Make your stay worth it!!… … … .
Long Post?
By Pen
February 28, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
I was very surprised that it was Alaina and Alex who went home tonight. Kady blew it and Amanda should feel a debt of gratitude to the VFTW voters who kept her in. I don’t care for her in general, but she seriously bombed last night. I thought Alex’s song was lovely. She needed a stylist and a mentor to help with song choice though.
I’m overjoyed that Luke is still in. He is my third fav guy after David A. and David H.. No one else seems to share my opinion of him though. Kind of like Rudy from last year.
By Mike S
February 28, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this
Well, I am disappointed to see Alex go, but I not surprised. I knew she was in danger, but really thought Amanda would get the axe.
I was 3 out of 4 on the vote offs, and picked the bottom 4 of each set correctly.
I had Amanda and Alaina going home in the girls, with Kady and Alex in trouble; and I had Jason and Robbie pegged for the guys even though I really felt Danny should go, and had Luke as being in danger.
By Cait
February 28, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this
Did anyone notice that Robbie Carrico’s girlfriend in the stands was Jessi Peralta from “So You Think You Can Dance” Season 3?
By Eileen L.
February 28, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this
Is it just me or does anyone else think Amanda looks like a Thundercat?
By Mike S
February 28, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
LOL I found the best Nickname for Kady — because of her “Death Stare” at Simon another blog is calling her Darth Kady. hehehe
Amanda has been Christened Pepe for Pepe Le Pew.
By idolbeat
February 28, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
Lack of airtime definitely hurt Alexandrea. With Kelly, it was different. The internet, spoilers, and fanbase (did they have them prior to season 1 starting?) all carry weight when marketing a contestant. But AI chose to highlight all the other girls over ALexandrea - her voice was not heard on camera for a peroid of longer than 15 seconds prior to top 24. I can name at least 3 or 4 girls that should have went before Alex. Hearing her sing tonight only confirmed it. Randy said she should not have gone home. Poor song choice? Rodney, why don’t you find out if she chose If you leave me now as her first choice, was it even on the list or was it given to her ala Garrett?
By Shelly
February 28, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this
What I want to know … why is no one else outraged that Carly Hennesy/Smithson is still in the contest? Should the fact that she had a previous recording deal with MCA who spent over $2million promoting her debut album not make her inelligible? And if not, why not?
By Rodney Ho
February 28, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this
Shelly—she was eligible because that contract ended five years ago. She was not under contract when she tried out and that’s all that matters. That’s the legal matter right there. Some people are outraged that she’s in this because of it— like you. But I get a sense most folks on this board who know the gory details don’t really care. Carly will succeed on her own terms and if enough people who know the details about her contract find it problematic, well, they won’t vote for her and she won’t go much further. We’ll see.
By War Eagle (from home)
February 28, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this
i’ve been out with friends tonight getting a good buzz.
flats, i was at the idol hour pub if you know where that is (next to charlie josephs)
i won’t comment on tonight’s show because i did not see it and i am typing with one eye closed because if i open both eyes i see double.
holler tomorrow
By Jocelyn
February 28, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this
Well! I agree with Shelly. It’s totally unfair for someone who has had all the benefits of professional advice, not to mention extensive promotion etc. to be able to compete. What about Idol contestants who get a record deal but don ‘t make it…will they be able to compete again just because their contract expired? What a joke!!
By ,,,=^..^=,,, from home
February 28, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this
to WE in the morning! hope you are feeling much better! did you down a couple of aspirin before going to sleep? hope so!
D, hoping your mom has a good night and you get some rest.
one thought… if the Lennon & McCartney songs were not released until now, how did David A get the rights to do Imagine??? just a question, you understand… anyone have any ideas? or KNOW anything?
By Rodney Ho
February 29, 2008 12:26 AM | Link to this
Jocelyn: Yes, Carly got a lot of training in the music biz back as a teen. And that certainly informs her decisions and who she is six years later. It may even be an advantage. But every contestant has built-in advantages and disadvantages. Personally, I’m not bugged by it in the least. The promotion she got with MCA was meaningless because nobody bought her album. So nobody knew who she was anyway. Heck, she’s been mostly a waitress at Irish bars the past few years, not singing. Is is truly “fair” for her to compete and get this chance? That’s the debate here and I totally understand your concerns. btw the rules do state that once you make the top 24, you aren’t eligible for the show anymore.
By Negativo
February 29, 2008 12:28 AM | Link to this
Disappointed that Sanjaya II is still girling it up for another week, but, as we learned from last year, dominating the gay and pre-teen girls vote can take you all the way to the top 12.
Even more disappointed that Amanda the Horrible will be screeching away for at least another week. Not that I’m a huge Carly fan or anything, but I need her to rock it enough to to KO this wretched beast’s rocker vote monopoly. I am certain that when stripped of a rock scream, Amanda the Horrible has the worst voice in the history of Idol’s Top 24.
Don’t really care about the ones who were cut. Yeagermeister was a pretty good singer, but very boring and irrelevant. Corrico was done in by his phony hair and dreary rendition of Hot Blooded.
For the girls, Alaina was lost a week earlier than she should have been, but so what. She was cute and a nice singer, but not in the same league with the top tier ladies. Like Rodney said, though, her tearful performance of Hopelessly Devoted was a hell of a lot better than last nights mediocre job. If she sang like that last night she’d have still been around for another week. Cheap blue prom dress didn’t help her any, either.
Lushington was totally unmemorable and deservant of being booted. I can’t say I remember anything about her, and the droning, boring, awkward performance of “If you leave me now” made me think “PLEASE, LEAVE ME…RIGHT NOW!”
So, there we have it. I don’t hink we should be crowning anybody yet, RODNEY, but it is safe to say we have three levels of contestants.
Favorites - Tier 1: Sayesha, Ramiele & Carly for the ladies. Archuletta, Hernandez & Johns for the men.
Longshots - Tier 2: Asia, Kristy & Brooke for the ladies. Jacuzzi, Cook & Castro for the guys.
NO shots -Tier 3: Kady & Amanda for the ladies. Sanjaya II & Luke Manard for the guys.
So, is next week another four boot night, o0r do they reduce the elimination to two?
By Negativo
February 29, 2008 12:45 AM | Link to this
The board just blows tonight…it seems to have eaten one of my posts! How I miss the old format…
By ,,,=^..^=,,, from home
February 29, 2008 1:00 AM | Link to this
crud, Neg, a long one of mine about “experience” just disappeared too :-( and there is NO way i could recreate it. oh well.
summarize it to say… Naive to say that Alexandrea has no experience… she’s been competing at top levels for at LEAST 5 years (more to have gotten to the top 2 5 year ago versus David Archuleta in Star Search) and speaking of David A, you don’t see him whining about being an underdog, you see him performing, competing, and having confidence in himself. AND he’s touted as the ONE to beat by more than just Simon. At “only 17 with no professional training” … where’s your argument now? just a thought :-)
By Negativo
February 29, 2008 1:02 AM | Link to this
BTW, DVR is the best part of Idol Gives Back. Allows me to ffwd all the way through that bunk and see the performances sans telethon.
By ,,,=^..^=,,, from home
February 29, 2008 1:07 AM | Link to this
4 more next week, 80’s theme
By Disappointed
February 29, 2008 1:43 AM | Link to this
Rodney, I’m disappointed with your saying there’s a lack of support on blogs and message boards for Alexandrea. We found just the opposite. People thought she was different and interesting, even last night. They liked her. (I don’t count Rickey.org, he chooses his favorites for very weird reasons that have nothing to do with talent.)She didn’t just have an “OK” week last week, she made people notice her. People were not expecting her to go home tonight - just browse around.
Song choice this week was the problem, not to mention competitors Asia’h and Syesha -who aren’t nearly as good as Alex - had been given free passes for bad vocals from auditions through the first round, this was the first week they got any criticism (mostly from Simon).They’ve gotten much more airtime than Alex and that’s the only reason they’re still there.
No way she should have gone home tonight.
I hope that some of the producers with Atlanta connections get in touch with her. Rarely does a top 24 who doesn’t make the top 12 go on to a recording career, but Alex might do it a year or two from now. She’s young, she looks great and unique, and she can sing, unlike most of the girls out there today who would be her competition.
By JTesla
February 29, 2008 2:13 AM | Link to this
AlexAndrea who?
By missnadine
February 29, 2008 6:26 AM | Link to this
Check this out - - Robbie’s boy band day collage.
http://www.angelfire.com/me3/robbiecarrico/images/RobbieCollage.jpg
By Scott P
February 29, 2008 7:06 AM | Link to this
A very heartfelt thanks for identifing Eva Cassidy as the source of the arrangement used for this performance. Eva is a growing musical influence among current and rising stars. I know this for a fact as I have written several articles about finding Eva Cassidy’s musical legacy. It is a story which will only continue to grow making eventual recognition of her great talent assured.
For those not familiar with her, a wonderful montage set to Eva’s Over The Rainbow can be ceen here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ccCnL8hArW8
By Billy
February 29, 2008 7:24 AM | Link to this
Kady should have been cut. She’s another who’s already done an album and while she looked good Wed, she basically went through the motions in her performance.
By .I.
February 29, 2008 7:25 AM | Link to this
you all are cut!!!! Get a Life!!!!!
By Deirdre
February 29, 2008 7:30 AM | Link to this
Morning Mushblogians!
Not terribly disappointed about the leavees. I would have been happier if, as Neg said, Alaina stuck around until next week at least.
Needing to go next week, depending on performance, of course….Danny, Luke, Kady and ‘The Bride’. These 4 have to seriously improve.
On Carly…the rules of the contest say she can compete as long as she meets the age requirements and as long as she is not CURRENTLY under contract. If you ask me, all this negative boo-hooing about her previous contract is convincing me that I should be paying more attention to her.
AND, most importantly, I thought the group sing was great last night. Almost everybody hit their notes!!!!!
By Negativo
February 29, 2008 7:40 AM | Link to this
So, we now learn Lushington’s mother’s name is “Disappointed”.
D: Sending Amanda the Horrible packing is the only way to improve her. I am already preparing the fast forward button for her next abysmal effort.
By Deirdre
February 29, 2008 7:56 AM | Link to this
I don’t think AlexAndrea’s lack of airtime was a deciding factor. Sure, it didn’t help, but her voice is not very strong(and if it IS strong, she certainly hasn’t shown the viewer that) Chikizie had no airtime at all and most think he’ll make the final 12 after a terrible first showing.
By Mike S
February 29, 2008 8:28 AM | Link to this
Here is my shot at handicapping next weeks battle for the top 12. I actually see the same dynamic setting up on both sides : one sure fire lock for the top-12, 3 probable locks, 1 fairly safe barring a disasterous performance, two on the bubble, and one who should definately leave but probably won’t.
MEN:
PENCIL HIM IN : David Archuletta. Top dog for now.
90% LOCK : Michael Johns, David Hernandez, David Cook. Would have to basically die to not get in.
SHOULD GET IN : Jason Castro, but he cannot have another weak performance.
ON THE BUBBLE : Chikezie. Should be top 12, but unless he has a breakout performance or Jason tanks he will probably be this years Sanjaya Syndrome victim.
PROBABLY GONE : Luke Menard. Needs an amazing performance and Jason and Chikezie to bomb.
MALE SANJAYA : Dannielle Noriega. THe puss filled infected boil on our butts for 2008.
LADIES:
PENCIL HER IN : Carly Smithson. Not my favorite, but she is in no danger.
90% LOCK : Syesha Mercado, Asia’h Epperson, Ramiele Malubay.
THE BATTLE OF THE BLONDES : Brooke White, Kristy Lee Cook, Kady MAlloy. Honestly, two of these three should get the spots, but I think they are fighting for one spot opposite MISS VFTW. Brooke just needs to be steady, Kristy needs to step it up to pass Brooke, and Kady needs a WOW performance and the other two to struggle.
SHOULD BE GONE : Amanda Overmeyer. I really liked Amanda up until this weeks performance, and she could still pull off a comeback with Pat Benatar, Joan Jett, Bonnie Riatt, and the Pretenders all waiting for her in the 80’s theme. But, this week was a total disaster, and I think VFTW is going to get her a spot one of the Blonde Brigade deserves.
Now, here is my Personal Top 12 in order of Preference : David A., Syesha, Ramiele, Michael, Asia’h, Carly, David C, David H, Kristy, Brooke, Chikezie, Jason C.
By flats
February 29, 2008 8:32 AM | Link to this
Good morning everyone…..good call last night linny on Eagle!(hungover)Yes Eagle,I used to frequent the pub often.Does anyone know if howard stern’s at it again getting behind the worst one.I felt bad for the 2 girls that got voted off!I liked Amanda early on,but now…GO HOME SMARTASS!!!
By Mike S
February 29, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this
For all the people having a problem with Carly’s MCA past, Let’s review.
Taylor Hicks had 2 albums out when he came on Idol, Daughtry also had 2 albums out.
Last year Gina Glocksen & Chris Sligh had released previous albums.
This year Michael Johns has had a record contract, And Kristy Lee Cook was signed to Arista Records when she was 15.
Even Squeeky clean giggle boy David is actually a seasoned pro, having won Star Search 5-6 years ago.
By tnvol
February 29, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this
Kady needs an attitude adjustment!
By Mike S
February 29, 2008 8:56 AM | Link to this
Tnvol, Darth Kady hits me as the type who has never been told NO in her life. She has gotten by her entire life on her looks, her humor, and her immpression ability. I would also bet she is a “Daddy’s Girl” (Ala Kat McPhee) who is completely spoiled and can do no wrong.
By flats
February 29, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this
Mike…24 will win this weekend!!!!he has never won in Vegas!!!
By Deirdre
February 29, 2008 9:02 AM | Link to this
“squeaky-clean giggle boy” LOL! Perfect description! Don’t get me wrong…I really like David A. His voice is wonderful and he’s adorable(although that adorable-ness is going to wear pretty thin in the next few weeks)
There seem to be 2 factions out there..the anti-Carly faction and the anti-Michael faction. Carly’s group seems to just take offense that she’s experienced. Michael’s group seems to be former band partners and their friends with a serious case of sour grapes. Either way…meh!
This is my sunshine day…fresh air and no elder care. I’ll be back blogging this afternoon! Have a good day folks!
By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
February 29, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this
Mike — ALexAndrea was also a Star Search top contender (with David) and thus could not be said to be “inexperienced”, as i said earlier. I think there was only ONE person… maybe it was Jason C, i dunno, but i remember someone mentioning that only one of the contestants had virtually NO “stage” experience. Help me out here guys, i KNOW i heard it about SOMEone!
By Deirdre
February 29, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this
“daddy’s girls” who are completely spoiled and can do no wrong are also eligible for this competition. I’d rather judge her on her abilities rather than my impressions of her personality. She’s a good singer but so far……she’s a piece of wood on stage.
By kellyfan
February 29, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this
Good morning y’all!
Thank the Lord it’s Friday…’cause it seems WE and I had the same idea last night. But I’m feeling it this morning. grin
Ok, so my thoughts: BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO on Alaina! I can name at least 4 other girls that should’ve gone before her. She really should’ve stuck around a bit longer. (I mean, I like Kady, but Alaina was more consistent). I think what hurt her was the Carrie factor. So, boo, hiss!
I was also sad to see Alexandrea leave….but I can understand why.
As far as the guys, I think those were the good choices to go.
By Negativo
February 29, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this
D- I get he impression she’d also probably be a lifeless piece of would in…oh, ok, I’ll behave.
By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
February 29, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this
i’ve noticed quite a bit of the contrast between the relaxed taped sessions (the contestant seems like he or she is fun, talented, lively, interesting, whatever) and then they get on stage - Kady can’t do anything naturally- it’s all stiff and boring; amanda flips from a cool rocker/biker chick who reads to an over-made-up, weirdly dressed and coifed parody of a rocker chick.. and so on… in fact! Amanda should contact Saturday Night Live about doing a stint as a Rocker Chick… unless she tones down the extreme plastic side of the picture and just relaxes, sings, and rocks out, she SHOULD be gone; it’s a shame, to me. having listened to Carly without watching on replay, i’ll have to give her some kudos, she’s better than i want her to be, lol. i just am so put off by her demeanor that i don’t WANT to like her (and maybe their “you’re so fabulous” constant comments help push me away too, i’ll confess) if you dvr the show, play ONLY the songs, skip thru intros and comments…you can get a better comparison of the actual talent/performance that way…
ok, end of the month so i gotta get really busy for today and the first of next week… i’ll still pop in, cuz i’m addicted, of course…
~¿@
By Rodney Ho
February 29, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this
Linny— “Imagine” and all solo Lennon compositions have separate ownership issues vs. the Beatles catalog. So “Idol” had been able to use “Imagine” in the past but not the Beatles. As you may or may not recall, “Imagine” was recorded a couple of years after the Beatles broke up.
By Rodney Ho
February 29, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this
Linny—it’s Jason Castro who appears to have had virtually no stage experience.
By #1bravesfan
February 29, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this
Linny - to answer your question about David A singing Imagine. It is not a part of the Lennon/McCartney songbook that was just released. Imagine is only a Lennon song - Lennon’s “book” has been open since the beginning, thus giving OKO more royalties.
By Nothing
February 29, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this
Chekezie is too cheesy. He was TERRIBLE in the group sing last night, and that grin makes me think of a peeping-tom. He has shown me nothing, and I am surprised he’s still here. He’s gotta go next time. I agree with the losers last night…I had them pegged. Let’s get rid of the dead-weight now, and see some REAL singers.
By Sara
February 29, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this
The Bride of Frankenstein should have went home. So should the guy with the dreads that looks like John Travolta and Tiny Tim gave birth to him. Hometown girl was robbed!
By flats
February 29, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this
SARA…….Hometown girl should’ve sang better and left the legs on those cheesy shorts.
By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
February 29, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this
ah me. gotta love guv’ment education! grammar and biology not priorities, obviously
Rodney thank you SO much for answering my questions! i know they get lost in all the rhetoric usually!
but i ALSO know i can always count on you!
so, who did you send the AI hoodie to? just askin! ~¿@
i’d forgotten that imagine was actually AFTER the breakup, it somehow stays linked in my pea-brain! actually, i was never a total Beatle/Lennon/McCartney et al groupy, and just didn’t keep up with them as closely as others. So, that question has been answered and i thank those who did.
SO the question now is: “which four would you send home next week based on what you’ve seen so far?” (no need to name the one’s you’d keep for this post, just the ones you want GONE, and a quicky “why”, please)
just tryin’ to keep it goin’…
By JTesla
February 29, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this
Linny:
Amanda – she isn’t right for this competition, she would be entertaining if she was doing covers at a dive bar and I had a beer… or three.
Kady – We got rid of one attitude problem last night, but their name escapees me. One more tude girl left: Kady is starting to become annoying.
Danny – Never liked him and the more I see of him the more I dislike. Although, I really had hoped that he would strap on some 6 inch claws and pull a Freddie Kruger last night (he had the sweater).
Chikezie – I like Luke a little better otherwise I don’t have anything against Chikezie. As long as Danny goes I don’t care if Chikezie or Luke go.
By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
February 29, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this
Thanks JT… i understand your comments about Amanda — and actually, I agree — she’s NOT right for a “pop” star contest. She’s more alternative, more so because she’s a chick doing it, than even daughtry. where it was ok for him, because that sort of sound for a guy is still popular, for a gal it just “ain’t so”. She needs to get a band together and front on the Next Great American Band or Rock Star or whatever the next version of Band Competition will be. She’d have fit right in with the crew on Rock Star!!! and probably done pretty well at that.
totally agree on Kady and Danny… and actually kind of agree on “either Chik or Luke” as the other guy, i LIKE Chikezie, but i think i actually COULD like Luke better…. so i guess they’ll have to be provin’ to me who should stay, eh?
By Making Sense
February 29, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this
Linny, first to respond to your request: Here are my picks to go home next week:
Chikezie (Big “Gary Coleman”) - Just bleh, boring.
Luke - More actor material than pop-star material. Anyone remember Matthew Metzger from Season 3? I think he’s now on “One Life to Live”. Luke reminds me of him. Pretty boy.
Amanda - All her songs sound the same. At times, she sounds like an old lady with a shaky voice.
Kady - Too self absorbed. (Syesha also falls into that category. Sorry.)
JTesla, too funny on Danny’s correlation with Freddie Kruger! I KNEW he reminded me of SOMEone! You pegged it.
Additional comments:
David A’s “tearshed” for AlexAndrea was sweet, perhaps tears of, once again (from back in the Junior Star Search days), triumphant guilt. Nonetheless, I loved the gesture of AlexAndrea going to hug David after her last performance.
AlexAndrea’s Exit Interview - I was SHOCKED, and rather turned off, when she said to Ryan, “You were supposed to bring my grandmother to California, FREAK!” Someone, please tell me she didn’t say that!
Alaina’s elimination announcement: I actually think KADY was the most surprised by the outcome. Honestly, I think she mentally prepared herself to hear her name called and be the one to be voted off. She had a genuine look of shock on her face. Not sure if the tears were real though. Did you notice, when she hugged Alaina, she almost forcefully turned Alaina’s back to the camera, while strategically placing HER “sad” face right in the view of the the camera? Like I said, she’s got that actress thing going on. She knows where the cameras are and knows how to perform for them (and us).
The bit on Simon’s strange “moose” hand-CODE, as Simon called it, gave me a good chuckle.
By kellyfan
February 29, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this
That’s an interesting take on the Kady/Alaina interaction. I actually thought that Kady was just letting Alaina cry and giving her a moment to try to get herself together before she sang…even Alaina made a comment about how she was embarrassed for “bawling on national TV.” Then again, maybe I missed something.
By flats
February 29, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this
Kellyfan…YOU GO GIRL!!!!
By Fitz
February 29, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this
By Rodney Ho
February 29, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this
Linny—it’s Jason Castro who appears to have had virtually no stage experience.Wrong. He was on MTV on the show Cheyenne. Cheyenne was his girlfriend and he was in her music video, there was a whole episode about her demanding that Jason be in her video and her CD company didn’t want him in it. He was on for a few episodes his band was on there too. The video is on YouTube, by Cheyenne. “Hangin’ On” is the name of the song. Jason mentioned Cheyenne in one interview, they had the same manager, but never mentioned it again. So he has experience but he or the show is trying to hide it. probably so he can continue to seem like the dopey nice guy who tried out on a whim. People are falling for it, so why not?
By JTesla
February 29, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this
Rodney: Do they have exit interviews during this stage of the competition? I’d really love to see an answer, or perhaps just a reaction to Robbie’s hair issue.
By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
February 29, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this
MS and kf, i too felt that Kady was being protective of Alaina… i think BOTH Alaina and Kady expected Kady to be going home, and Kady saw immediately that Alaina was going to fall apart…she gave her that extra moment to try to gather her wits, as it were. And i was glad the other girls encouraged her to sing, because after she got started, did you notice that she actually stepped out from the girls and finished the song with more power? Good for her! And a good lesson for her, too, on how to handle the disappointment and still MOVE ON!
Fitz, thanks for the input on the Castro experience/non-experience question. I believe that it WAS Castro i was thinking of, but your input helps a little bit. Perhaps he did not consider that much REAL experience, especially if he wasn’t wanted… it certainly did not help him gain any notice in the music world, lol!
But you reinforce my point that everyone who makes it this far probably HAS some exposure to the various aspects of either professional experience OR competitive stage experience…
*question for Rodney, MikeS or any other research-oriented blogger — has there been in 7 years ANY totally INexperienced singer in the top 24? I do not count singing in the choir at church or glee club at school as “experience” and unless it was a continuous thing, would not count an occasional appearance in, say, a high school or church “musical” as true experience — those being amateur productions at best. By experience i mean either on-going competition experiences making it to a high level, semi-professional singing engagements on a regular basis (ball games, special events, etc. where you are featured), contracts within the music business that were more than the initial contract, i.e., at least SOME sort of recording was made, even if it bombed. Extensive club appearances where the person is a featured singer, not just a backup or occasional singer in a band or something. That kind of “experience”.
Anyone have any ideas on that?
By flats
February 29, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this
Hey Linny…I dont thank i can help you on all that…Sorry!
By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
February 29, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
LOL greg, i didn’t EXPECT you to, hon. But thanks for thinking of me! laughing maybe someone will be bored enough over the weekend to check out the idea…
I however, will be LOST most of the weekend, so i can get closer to this season, LOL!!! (blame THAT on Deirdre!!)
ok, i’m off to do some stuff so i’ll see you guys maybe before the end of the day; if not, have a great weekend!
peace!
By MIKE
February 29, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this
HI
By Mike S
February 29, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
Linny, I may be wrong, but I believe the #1 example for an inexperienced contestant would be, believe it or not, CARRIE UNDERWOOD.
I don’t think she had much beyond Church and school Musicals.
By Shaun
February 29, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this
Elliot Yamin had never sang in public before idol. His own mom didnt know he could sing.
By Blkshepherd
February 29, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this
Maybe its just me but my favorite bash contestant Danny, was a bit subdued and toned down. He actually appeared like a humble contestant last night. Poor lil fellow was terrified..I thought he was going to faint. Chickeezee reached over and hugged him after he was told to sit. I believe someone may have had a talk to him about toning down the mannerisms just a tee or maybe he was just scared of getting axed which will surely come. Rocker girl missed the bullet but I can assure you..it will find her. She could probably snag a role in Rocky Horror Picture Show 2008..I would hate to cross her in an after hour bar after shes had a few, probably slam a bottle up side my head before I can say Ryan Seacrest! The four that went home never should have made the top 24. My pick..the 17yr old and the dude that sang Papa was a rolling stone(what a soulful full voice) right now they sound the best to me. the rest..sound Hopelessly bad.
By flats
February 29, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this
Yeah,and look at Elliot now!!!LOL!!!!
By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
February 29, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this
BShep, your two faves are David Archuleta and David Hernandez, and yes, i think they both are quite good. Papa Was A Rolling Stone is a song made for 4-part harmony, and yet no one noted how WELL he blended the parts into a soloist number. Well, except for my hubby and i, lol!
By Shaun
February 29, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this
Linny, my response was to you, not the VI.
By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
February 29, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this
Mike S — I was thinking pretty much the same thing — Carrie had had some local experience but had not competed, traveled, performed professionally, or even semi-professionally, as far as I can remember.
About Eliot, i don’t remember, but seems what you say is right… and flats, E-Train is doing just fine! He’s not a big star, no, but he’s being produced and performing, and he’s quite nice to listen to!
By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
February 29, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this
{{{{{{ Shaun }}}}}} i knew that, LOL!!! and since i like Mr. Yamin, i’m iggiting negativity type comments, i’m trying to only respond to positives or to questions, LOL
peace … and thanks for the input Shaun, you know how i am about soaking up information!!!
By flats
February 29, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this
Elliot…LOL!!!!Good one Linny!
By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
February 29, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this
^¿~
By flats
February 29, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this
Linny…I love your symballs u always use.I hope u have a good weekend!!!
By idolbeat
February 29, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this
Disappointed - I loved your post. Thank you for saying so perfectly what I was trying to get across last week. Alexandrea didn’t deserve to go home. I too, am disappointed. I think Atlanta could have done more to promote her “hometown girl” relationship. I know that if there was a girl or guy that was raised and lived in our area, we would be behind them, doing whatever to try to let people know that this potential star hails from Georgia. Especially when AI didn’t promote her. All of the girls in the top 12 were featured more than Alex. Fanbases were started early. Alex was not a “Diva” singer, she was different then the belter or power singer. She is urban, hip, young, jazzy and unique.
To the person who said did she say “freak” to Ryan - Alex was joking around - it was an endearment. I don’t know what the future holds for her but I hope someone who saw her performnace last night sees what potential she has.
By Rodney Ho
February 29, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
Linny—War Eagle should get the hoodie as soon as I get around to actually mailing it.
By Deirdre
February 29, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this
I’m going to try and post again…so far I’ve tried twice and neither one of them appeared.
idolbeat…I wish I could agree with you on Alex but, if she hadn’t left last night she probably would be gone next week. I’m sure she’s a good singer but…I haven’t seen it the last 2 weeks. Maybe it’s nerves, maybe she’s ill, maybe something else is going on. She has not presented herself well AT ALL. Her voice has been weak, her performance level is not good…she just wasn’t there.
I will tell you that the ONLY reason Amanda is still there is because of votefortheworst.
By Deirdre
February 29, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this
UM..did anyone hear from War Eagle today? That hangover must be a doozy!!!
By War Eagle (from home)
February 29, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this
Good Morning, UUUUHHHHH Evening.
As I stated the first part of the week, the company I have been with for nearly 19 years was bought out by a competitor. I was lucky to keep my job but about 45 of my co-workers weren’t so lucky. So last night we had a little good-bye “get together” and since about half of the people there didn’t have to get up this morning the “get together” turned into a throw-down.
Anyway I made it to work today but we were busy doing a complete inventory for the bank to approve the buy-out. Looks like I missed a pretty good day on the blog.