miss v's voice: November 2020

Saturday, November 28, 2020

Dancing with the Stars Season 29: Must be Finale!

Round 1: The Encore-- The contestants do their best dance again and kick it up a notch

Kaitlyn and Artem danced an Argentine Tango to Toxic by Britney Spears-- Derek said Kaitlyn what a perfect dance to remind us that you are a contender for that trophy. Bruno said you took my breath away, and it was better than before. Carrie Ann said this was the dance where you went from being amazing to unforgettable. She said this is one of my top three favorite dances ever. I love this dance too! Definitely one of my faves this season and I have enjoyed watching this partnership so much.
Score: 30/30

Nelly and Daniella danced a Samba to Rhythm of the Night by DeBarge-- Bruno said let's party with Nelly and Daniella. You have such a spontaneity. Carrie Ann said your journey is the most fascinating and has given the most joy. Derek said this show isn't just about technique. It's about moments, you're a moment maker. You connect with people at home. Nelly has definitely been a favorite for me because he is without question, an underdog. I love watching him challenge himself and smile, no one has fun like Nelly on the dance floor. Score: 27/30

Nev and Jenna danced a Paso Doble to The Black Swan (Swan Lake)-- Carrie Ann said that dance was perfection. Every time you come out I know it's going to be amazing. Derek said I love the little change at the beginning. Derek said you kind of cat fished us all. Bruno said you created more intensity and you killed it. Nev seems to really have found his niche with dancing and it seems like he has found his true calling. This was amazing. Score: 30/30

Justina and Sasha danced a Cha Cha to Respect by Aretha Franklin-- Derek said you are exploding with charisma and energy. So good well done! Bruno said you know how to shake those tailfeathers. You were almost too hot to trot. Carrie Ann said you know how to bring it every time. So much improvement to this dance and yes, Justina just has so much passion and fire that she brings to every dance. Score: 30/30

Round 2: The Freestyle!

Nelly and Daniella danced a freestyle to Savage and Hypnotize-- Bruno said we are in the presence of hip hop royalty. Carrie Ann said you give me hope for the future. You took hip hop, ballroom, and Latin and brought them together. They're worlds you normally wouldn't see together and you guys did that. I was in awe of this performance and I felt exactly what Carrie Ann said, hope! This was the ultimate tribute that they could have done for dance and for each other. Score: 30/30

Kaitlyn and Artem danced a freestyle to Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend-- Carrie Ann said that is my favorite movie of all time. That was incredible, I am so proud of you. Derek said I remember Chris Harrison announcing you on the Zoom call and then you're descending from the ceiling to the ballroom. Bruno said it was a showcase of Dancing with the Stars. This was a cool routine and very Kaitlyn. Score: 30/30

Nev and Jenna danced a freestyle to Singin' in the Rain-- Derek said Nev you are a leading man. Jenna you have been sensational all season. Bruno said you aimed high and succeeded. It was show-stopping, inspired, and beautiful. Carrie Ann said it was like three dances in one, it was magical. Wow! That was spectacular. They gave it all. This was absolutely flawless. Score: 30/30

Justina and Sasha danced a freestyle to Let's Get Loud-- Derek said I could not think of a better freestyle to finish this season. Carrie Ann said what a beautiful celebration of your culture. Watching this back, I loved it more than I thought I initially did. What a beautiful job by Justina and Sasha's choreography was wonderful. Score: 30/30

Nelly's performance was pretty awesome so I had to add it--

4th place Justina and Sasha

3rd place Nelly and Daniella

2nd place Nev and Jenna

Winners!!! Kaitlyn and Artem

Tuesday, November 17, 2020

Dancing with the Stars Season 29: The Semifinals Don't Disappoint

Round One: Redemption Dance Judge’s Choice

Skai and Alan danced a Cha Cha per Bruno to Move Your Feet by Junior Senior— What a great redemption dance. I loved the music, I loved the choreography, it was so fun. Bruno loved it, he was energized and said it was sharp and strong. Carrie Ann said you were so tight and so crisp. This is what we wanted to see. Derek said that was such a brilliant dance, phenomenal, you were so confident. Score: 27/30

Justina and Sasha danced a Tango per Derek to El Tango de Roxanne— This was a huge improvement over the first time she did Tango. I think she still has room to grow as she doesn’t bring me in the way some of the other contestants do, but she did well. Derek said the attack, the passion, the energy. There were no hops. He said loved it, well done. Bruno said you were on top of it, total change of intention. Carrie Ann said there was a new confidence, you oozed sensuality. Score: 28/30

Johnny and Britt danced a Salsa per Carrie Ann to X by The Jonas Brothers— I think that was huge in terms of redemption. I loved his confidence! Carrie Ann said I am so proud of you, this was about growth. Derek said it was very intricate and a hard routine so well done. Bruno said you really have the feel of action, reaction, and connection. Great improvement. Score: 27/30

Nelly and Daniella danced a Paso Doble per Bruno— This was so good, unsure about that 8, but I’m not gonna hate on Derek too much. I thought he had so much power and so much control. I agree with Derek I’m that the music didn’t go with the movement but it didn’t seem appropriate for the dance. Bruno said I could see shapes and lines. You used restrained power, you put so much work into it. Carrie Ann said you danced with power and presence, so impressive. Derek said, Nelly there was definitely improvement, the focus you had was so captivating. Your side by side was so good, and you reminded me that I need to hit the gym. Score: 26/30

Nev and Jenna danced a Foxtrot per Derek to Sign of the Times by Harry Styles— This was beautiful. Nev has such a polished take on every dance and it seems like he works hard on technique. Derek said that was classic and pure foxtrot. Bruno said you are a class act. You never lost it. Carrie Ann said you have mastered the technique these past few weeks and truly become a ballroom artist. Score: 30/30

Kaitlyn and Artem danced a Paso Doble per Carrie Ann— The choreography was gorgeous. They both looked amazing. They were both strong and I loved how they supported each other as partners. Kaitlyn truly did improve on the things Carrie Ann gave her notes on. Carrie Ann said that was so well done. Derek said you sold me. Bruno told the whole story, it was 100% authentic Paso Doble. Score: 30/30

Round Two:

Justina and Sasha danced a Contemporary to Holding Out for a Hero— The dance is dedicated to their partnership. Yes!!!! This was amazing, all the feels. Derek said I am just having moments tonight. Thank you so much, I love watching you dance, it’s effortless. Beautiful arms. Bruno said such freedom of movement. I loved it. Carrie Ann said Sasha is a special heart and this dance, what is a ten, it’s when magic happens on the dance floor. Score: 30/30

Skai and Alan danced a Viennese Waltz to Lonely by Noah Cyrus— This looked gorgeous and genuine to me. This felt authentic. Bruno said what you did was so beautiful, you maintained an emotional connection throughout the dance. Carrie Ann said Skai you’re an exceptional young woman, you don’t stop fighting ever. You expressed your vulnerability and it took it to a whole other level. There was another dance you did for your friend but this one was for you. Derek said beautiful, elegant, your frame was gorgeous. I felt connected to you. Score: 30/30

Johnny and Britt danced a Jazz routine to I Lived by One Republic— I thought this dance really described the partnership between Johnny and Britt. The way they support each other is so beautiful. Carrie Ann said that was amazing, it felt like you were on cloud nine. Johnny agreed. Derek said it was a beautiful routine. I feel the genuine respect you have for each other as partners. Bruno said clear and everything I loved was there. Score: 30/30

Nev and Jenna danced a Contemporary to If the World Was Ending by JP Saks and Julia Michaels-- This looked genuinely complex and despite it, Nev was right there. Derek said I forgot to judge, this is so wonderful to witness and to watch. The partnership, the fluidity, and the creative-- so much goes into it, you aced it Jenna. Bruno said come on Nev you've done this before, you can't be that good. You were speaking to me. Carrie Ann said your partner is no joke, contemporary is your thing. Nev you delivered every single step. Score: 30/30

Nelly and Daniella danced a Jive to Jump, Jive, and Wail-- Nelly has been my favorite since day one. As I was watching him dance this, I felt something magical happening. It felt like he was having fun, he has all season, but you can tell he worked so hard on this. The judges were all on their feet. Bruno said Nelly you nailed it. Where did you come from? It was almost miraculous. What a job! Carrie Ann said Nelly what happened? I have never seen you boogie like that before, amazing job. Derek said dude you nailed that routine. Your energy, you guys need to have more drama more often. Nelly said Daniella is so dope. Score: 30/30

Kaitlyn and Artem danced a Contemporary to Cowboy Take Me Away by Dixie Chicks-- Heartfelt! I really felt Kaitlyn in this routine. Artem truly choreographs to her strengths which is beautiful. They have such a strong partnership; there is definite respect there. Carrie Ann said this has been an incredible night. Kaitlyn, you friend is smiling down on you. You danced from your heart and you two have some together beautifully. Derek said I loved this moment, you'll always have that for yourself. Bruno said powerful, beautiful dance.

Going to the Finals-- Nelly & Daniella, Nev & Jenna, and Kaitlyn & Artem

Lowest votes-- Johnny & Britt are leaving the competition

Judges voted to save Justina & Sasha, Skai & Alan are leaving the competition

Tuesday, November 10, 2020

Dancing with the Stars Season 29: Crazy for Icons Night

Icons Night on Dancing with the Stars, I have to admit I am excited about this one.

Justina and Sasha danced a Rumba to Crazy for You by Madonna— I agree with Derek in that the movement need to be sharper. I think Rumba is supposed to be more grounded. Bruno said we saw the gentle side of you tonight. The content was there. Derek told her she needed to extend more. Carrie Ann said Rumba is difficult cause it’s slower but it shouldn’t be smaller. You’re a dynamic performer, never let that go. Score: 24/30

Nelly and Daniella danced a Jazz routine to California Love by 2Pac— OMG! That was so so entertaining and good. I’m obsessed with this routine. They looked like they were literally entertaining us at a party. Bruno said you were cool, confident, and in your element. Carrie Ann said great job. You make us smile, laugh every week; we’re on this journey with you. Derek said it was so much fun, celebratory, you were a joy to watch. Score: 24/30

AJ and Cheryl danced a Viennese Waltz to Somebody to Love by Queen— I think he was overthinking. There was almost so much excitement and adrenaline that he made small errors throughout. He was able to refocus and I love watching AJ. Hopefully he can come back. Carrie Ann said you lost your way. Derek said we all do that, you did work on your left arm and frame. He said be calm and strong, I think we’re gonna see you again. Bruno said I think you were so pumped up that you were overthinking. Score: 23/30

Kaitlyn and Artem danced an Argentine Tango to Toxic by Britney Spears— Kaitlyn was great tonight and she looked stunning. This was by far her most focused and best performance. Derek said, let’s go! He said that was so beautiful, exquisite lines, transitions, you did that. Bruno said hit me Kaitlyn one more time, the images were precious paintings. Your focus and intensity was like we’ve never seen it. Carrie Ann gave her a standing ovation. Everything about it was amazing, perfect, passionate. Score: 30/30

Johnny and Britt danced a Quickstep to Valerie by Amy Winehouse— This was so fun, I loved how precise it was. Johnny is so passionate about his creative choices, I agree with Carrie Ann on that. Bruno said the actual quickstep was excellent, it was precise and beautiful, well done. Carrie Ann said we’ve never seen a quickstep like that. You deliver every creative choice with such passion, amazing. Derek said you’re enough. You being you is love. Score: 30/30

Skai and Alan danced a Paso Doble to If by Janet Jackson— They were great! That was such a great moment. Carrie Ann said this was a fierce Paso Doble. Derek said you are powerful, strong, and confident. He said watch your arms sometimes. Bruno said this was one of the most grown up dances we had and you lived up to it. He commented on the arms as well. Score: 27/30

Nev and Jenna danced a Jive to Saturday Nights All Right by Elton John— That was epic! They always leave it all out there with every performance. Derek said it’s been a pleasure to watch you and see you grow. I love the content and the charisma. Bruno said rocket man at his most entertaining. I loved the character of this. Carrie Ann said you’re a great showman, but watch the floppy feet. Score: 27/30

Dance Offs! Nev and Jenna did not have to dance because they were the high score from last week.

Justina and Sasha vs Kaitlyn and Artem danced a Cha Cha to Telephone by Lady Gaga— Justina won the dance off and got two bonus points. I actually preferred Kaitlyn.

Skai and Alan vs Nelly and Daniella danced a Salsa to Cup of Life by Ricky Martin— Skai won the dance off and got two bonus points. They were both great.

AJ and Cheryl vs Johnny and Britt danced a Jive to Wake Me Up Before You Go Go by Wham— AJ won the dance off and got the two bonus points. I would have chosen AJ as well.

The surprising part of all this is that at the end of the night-- AJ and Johnny were the bottom two, and AJ was sent home. I truly believe AJ and Cheryl touched so many people this season with their vulnerability and sharing their stories with us. I will miss them but I feel so confident that their friendship will continue. We will see more and hear more from them.

Watching back the dances Justina and Skai were overscored and could be in trouble next week. Nev and Nelly were underscored and should be back.

Wednesday, November 4, 2020

Dancing with the Stars Season 29: Nobody Knows How Well They Danced

Jeannie's Journey-- she had to leave the show to have emergency surgery.

Kaitlyn and Artem danced a Jive to Don't Stop Me Now by Queen -- Derek said your dances always have so much content, I would say work on staying sharp. Bruno said I want more passion, more attack. Carrie Ann said last week was hard for her but she came back with grace. I agree with Carrie Ann's points, but at the same time, I feel like she is being a little hard on Kaitlyn. Because Kaitlyn started at such a high level, it's hard for her to see the growth other contestants have seen. Score: 25/30

Nev and Jenna danced a Viennese Waltz to Stuck with You by Ariana Grande and Justin Bieber-- I truly enjoy watching Nev dance every week. He is just so so good. I felt like he did a beautiful job of leading her. Bruno said he was oozing charm and charisma; he said you were in control, light on your feet, extremely musical. Carrie Ann said he stepped on her dress, but it was such an elegant dance. Derek said beautiful, smooth Viennese waltz. Score: 27/30

Justina and Sasha danced a Samba to Magalenha by Sergio Mendes-- I thought Justina was great because of her excitement when she was dancing. She has such an open heart when she dances. Carrie Ann said you're so fierce. There was a tiny stumble in there. Derek said you look beautiful, loved the Samba rolls, watch your feet a little bit, it was a little bit flat footed. Bruno said look at you, my tangerine dream, you make every hour feel like happy hour. You give the full monty every time. Score: 27/30

Nelly and Daniella danced a Rumba to Nobody Knows by Tony Rich-- Nelly's feelings were palpable tonight. He obviously really loved his sister. It was not his best dance but he was so sincere. Derek said sometimes moments like that transcend, I appreciate you sharing that story with us. Bruno said make the ladies shine, which you did. He said you want to drag your foot rather than step it. Carrie Ann said the movements were nice but they were mostly your arms and shoulders. We needed to see the movement from your hips but we all felt your heart. Score: 21/30

Chrishell and Gleb danced a Viennese Waltz to Love on the Brain by Rihanna-- Carrie Ann said it was graceful, elegant, and sexy. She said your arms out of hold and your neck, work on that. Derek said my heart is beating fast, you're improving each week. He said watch your arms and transitions, they need to be more seamless. Bruno said I was thinking about so many things while watching that. You had some very good moments while you were dancing. Score: 24/30

Skai and Alan danced a Salsa to Work It by Missy Elliott-- This was fun! I do agree the judges that there were too many lifts. Carrie Ann said you were really aggressive with the dance. You didn't nail all the landings but you nailed the ending. Derek said you were more grounded, that was one too many lifts. I want to see more content. Bruno said he was screaming. Bruno said you have to make sure if you attempt the lift that you are able to continue with the flow of the dance. Score: 25/30

Johnny and Britt danced a Foxtrot to Wonder by Shawn Mendes-- I agree with Derek that Johnny's outfit was distracting but I loved the way these two tell a story. Derek said always beautiful arms. He said I wanted the dance to be more like a gradual build than rising and crashing waves. Bruno said your movement filled the stage. Carrie Ann said I liked the story, it was different, something I've never seen before. Score: 27/30

AJ and Cheryl danced a Rumba to Way Down We Go by Kaleo-- This really pulled me in, I could not take my eyes off either of them. This was powerful for sure, full of emotion. Bruno said I was so captivated by it, the drama, the storytelling. I lost a lot of the Rumba action. Carrie Ann said it was a passionate powerful performance. There wasn't a lot of hip action, I want you to bust open. Derek said I appreciate you sharing your journey, that one was for you so well done. Score: 24/30

Nev and Jenna, Chrishell and Gleb, and Nelly and Daniella are dancing the Cha Cha judged by Carrie Ann. They're dancing to Rain on Me by Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande-- She gave Nev 3 bonus points and Chrishell and Nelly 2 bonus points each.

Justina and Sasha, Johnny and Britt are dancing the Viennese Waltz judged by Derek. They're dancing to I Have Nothing by Whitney Houston-- He gave 3 bonus points to Johnny and 2 bonus points to Justina.

AJ and Cheryl, Kaitlyn and Artem, Skai and Alan are dancing the Samba judged by Bruno. They're dancing to Levitating by Dua Lipa-- He gave 3 bonus points to AJ and Kaitlyn and 2 bonus points to Skai

Bottom two was a big surprise in that it was Chrishell and Skai!

The judges all agreed to save Skai and Chrishell was sent home. It's hard to say who may go home next week since everyone was just so good.