I loved how both The Voice and The X Factor chose to open their final performances shows with tributes to the Sandy Hook School Victims and their families. Both performances were extremely touching and seriously brought tears to my eyes. On The Voice the mentors and the top 20 sang Jeff Buckley's Hallelujah.
On The X Factor, Simon Cowell gave a brief message before the top 12 performed You Are Not Alone by Michael Jackson.
Let's discuss The Voice.......
I do not agree with Cassadee Pope winning; I like her and nothing against her but her voice was not as strong and consistent throughout this season as Nicholas and Terry's voices were. Nick, to me, grew leaps and bounds from the beginning. I am a fan now; he's Marvin Gaye and Barry White, his voice is soul music. He's committed to every performance, and his passion is so evident. Terry is someone that, the moment I heard him sing Baba O' Riley by The Who on The Blind Auditions, I knew we had found our winner. He's my winner, and not just because of his voice, but because of his spirit. Terry knows he's good, but he is humble, and let's face it, authentic rock voices don't come around all the time. Terry is a diamond in the rough, I didn't vote for the wrong person in him. The public chose the wrong member of Team Blake.
Back to The X Factor:
A song they sang before:
Carly Rose Sonenclar sang Feeling Good by Nina Simone (Michael Buble)-- She sang this on her first audition. Simon felt she sang it better the second time around. Britney seemed pretty confident that Carly has this competition in the bag. I liked this performance, but it was a bit too stylized for me.
Tate Stevens sang Everything Goes by Randy Houser-- Demi felt that he turned it into a stadium performance, and that's what made it different this time than last time. Simon agreed with Demi and talked about how authentic Tate is and how he's maintained his integrity throughout. He congratulated L.A., and said this was an unlikely pairing, but you've done a really good job with him. I couldn't agree more; Tate deserves this, he deserves to be a star.
Fifth Harmony sang Anything Could Happen by Ellie Goulding-- L.A. said you were the underdogs and you are the ones to beat. Brit thought it was the right song choice. Demi feels they've worked hard and deserve to have people call for them. Simon likes the fact that they are the underdogs; I like it too. You know what I like even more? I like when the underdog wins.
Duets:
Carly Rose Sonenclar sang How Do I Live with Leann Rimes-- Out of the three duets, this was the weakest unfortunately.
Tate Stevens sang Pontoon with Little Big Town-- Tate looked and sounded like a natural.
Fifth Harmony sang Give Your Heart a Break with Demi Lovato-- Simon called it pop perfection.
New Song:
Carly Rose Sonenclar sang Hallelujah by Jeff Buckley-- L.A. questioned whether or not this was a $5 million performance. Simon said she looked great and sounded beautiful. Britney said that song alone was worth $5 million, get out your check book Simon. Sorry Brit, but for me, I was bored at the beginning and middle, it did liven up at the end, and I will give her that.
Tate Stevens sang Tomorrow by Chris Young-- Demi said she is sad that this is the last time she is going to hear him and that he's so talented. Simon said Tate has represented this category so well and that he has a feeling that a year from now, we'll be hearing about Tate's record sales. L.A. said he's always proud of him. I thought this was a great performance, he's definitely in this to the end.
Fifth Harmony sang Let it Be by The Beatles-- L.A. called it a beautiful performance, and said they did the song justice. Brit felt they've come a long way. Demi is proud of how they've evolved and grown. Simon said they deserve to be here, and I completely agree. That final performance blew me away.
Who is your pick to win The X Factor? Mine is Tate or Fifth Harmony
Do you agree with Cassadee Pope winning The Voice? Will you miss Christina and Cee Lo? Or not given it any thought yet?
Showing posts with label Fifth Harmony. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Fifth Harmony. Show all posts
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Reality Recap: The X Factor and The Voice
Contestant's Choice
Tate Stevens sang Bonfire by Craig Morgan-- He performed it well, but I didn't care for the song. Britney didn't think it was his best, Demi disagreed. I kind of agree with both of them because I did not think it was the right song for him, but he did a good job with it. L.A. said it was the most fun he has had since doing the show.
Carly Rose Sonenclar sang Your Song by Elton John-- L.A. thought she did things with the song that have never been done before. Demi thought it was predictable, but loved the R&B side of her voice. Simon said it was a beautiful version of a fantastic song, but not her best performance. I agree with all the judges, but again, didn't think it was necessarily the best song for her.
Emblem3 sang Baby I Love Your Way by Peter Frampton-- L.A. loved the song and saw them as recording artist for the first time. Britney thinks they've grown so much throughout the show. Demi praised it as well and compared it to their first audition and Simon agreed with Demi. I like how their personality showed in the song, but again, didn't like the song choice.
Fifth Harmony sang Anything Could Happen by Ellie Goulding-- Their performance of Anytime You Need A Friend was one of my favorite performances of this season, top three for sure. I love them. L.A. called it their best vocal performance, inventive, and he said he was proud of them. Britney loved everything about it, and called it magical and full of girl power. Demi said that they pulled out that sparkle that they needed. Simon agreed that "anything could happen," and I do too.
The Song I Need to get into the Finals
Tate Stevens sang Fall by Clay Walker-- Demi said he deserves all these good things and he is so talented. Simon liked the song choice, and said he has as much likelihood of going back to his old job as he does of flying to the moon tomorrow night. L.A. loves Tate for his consistency, and wished him the best of luck. This was a great song choice as Simon said, I remembered a woman singing this song, and was reminded that Kimberley Locke from American Idol had a number one on the American Dance Charts with this song.
Carly Rose Sonenclar sang Imagine by John Lennon-- L.A. liked her artistic capability and the fact that she played the piano. Demi thought it was amazing and she took a risk. Simon said there was too much going on and it made a beautiful song fussy. He said he didn't like the arrangement and said it was overcomplicated. Britney feels she should be competing with the biggest stars in the world. I actually agree with Simon, and another which he said that was really smart--- she sang those big notes, but the song didn't need that.
Emblem3 sang Hey Jude by The Beatles-- This is an awesome song choice by Simon, ingenious! It totally paid off too; unbelievable performance. L.A. said I thought this was presumptuous and I was going to tear you to shreds for thinking you are teen heartthrobs like The Beatles and you are. Britney told them to take a bow. Simon said you guys have steel in your eyes and nailed it on both songs; you were fantastic.
Fifth Harmony sang Impossible by Shontelle-- Amazing, I could see them putting so much passion into their vocals and the performance. L.A. found their song choice lazy. I totally do not agree with L.A. Britney said she would be surprised if they are in it next week. Demi said there aren't a lot of people supporting them so their fans need to support them. Simon said I hope and pray America gets behind you because I know you were one of the strongest acts tonight.
I loved both groups, I kind of hope one of the solo artists is going home. I don't think Carly Rose had as strong a night as everyone thinks.
Just wanted to comment that regardless of Trevin Hunte being voted off The Voice, I think he has quite the future ahead of him. The best on performance night was Terry McDermott's Let It Be; that guy can sing. He joins Cassadee Pope and Nicholas David in the finals.
Tate Stevens sang Bonfire by Craig Morgan-- He performed it well, but I didn't care for the song. Britney didn't think it was his best, Demi disagreed. I kind of agree with both of them because I did not think it was the right song for him, but he did a good job with it. L.A. said it was the most fun he has had since doing the show.
Carly Rose Sonenclar sang Your Song by Elton John-- L.A. thought she did things with the song that have never been done before. Demi thought it was predictable, but loved the R&B side of her voice. Simon said it was a beautiful version of a fantastic song, but not her best performance. I agree with all the judges, but again, didn't think it was necessarily the best song for her.
Emblem3 sang Baby I Love Your Way by Peter Frampton-- L.A. loved the song and saw them as recording artist for the first time. Britney thinks they've grown so much throughout the show. Demi praised it as well and compared it to their first audition and Simon agreed with Demi. I like how their personality showed in the song, but again, didn't like the song choice.
Fifth Harmony sang Anything Could Happen by Ellie Goulding-- Their performance of Anytime You Need A Friend was one of my favorite performances of this season, top three for sure. I love them. L.A. called it their best vocal performance, inventive, and he said he was proud of them. Britney loved everything about it, and called it magical and full of girl power. Demi said that they pulled out that sparkle that they needed. Simon agreed that "anything could happen," and I do too.
The Song I Need to get into the Finals
Tate Stevens sang Fall by Clay Walker-- Demi said he deserves all these good things and he is so talented. Simon liked the song choice, and said he has as much likelihood of going back to his old job as he does of flying to the moon tomorrow night. L.A. loves Tate for his consistency, and wished him the best of luck. This was a great song choice as Simon said, I remembered a woman singing this song, and was reminded that Kimberley Locke from American Idol had a number one on the American Dance Charts with this song.
Carly Rose Sonenclar sang Imagine by John Lennon-- L.A. liked her artistic capability and the fact that she played the piano. Demi thought it was amazing and she took a risk. Simon said there was too much going on and it made a beautiful song fussy. He said he didn't like the arrangement and said it was overcomplicated. Britney feels she should be competing with the biggest stars in the world. I actually agree with Simon, and another which he said that was really smart--- she sang those big notes, but the song didn't need that.
Emblem3 sang Hey Jude by The Beatles-- This is an awesome song choice by Simon, ingenious! It totally paid off too; unbelievable performance. L.A. said I thought this was presumptuous and I was going to tear you to shreds for thinking you are teen heartthrobs like The Beatles and you are. Britney told them to take a bow. Simon said you guys have steel in your eyes and nailed it on both songs; you were fantastic.
Fifth Harmony sang Impossible by Shontelle-- Amazing, I could see them putting so much passion into their vocals and the performance. L.A. found their song choice lazy. I totally do not agree with L.A. Britney said she would be surprised if they are in it next week. Demi said there aren't a lot of people supporting them so their fans need to support them. Simon said I hope and pray America gets behind you because I know you were one of the strongest acts tonight.
I loved both groups, I kind of hope one of the solo artists is going home. I don't think Carly Rose had as strong a night as everyone thinks.
Just wanted to comment that regardless of Trevin Hunte being voted off The Voice, I think he has quite the future ahead of him. The best on performance night was Terry McDermott's Let It Be; that guy can sing. He joins Cassadee Pope and Nicholas David in the finals.
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Reality Recap: The Voice and The X Factor
Surprises this week on my reality shows:
On The Voice, Adam lost the rest of his team, Amanda Brown and Melanie Martinez, making this a two man race in the finals. It's Cee Lo Green versus Blake Shelton. Cee Lo boasts young soul singer Trevin Hunte and guy from another time with the distinct voice, Nicholas David. Blake's team is not shabby with authentic Scottish rocker Terry McDermott and pop rock star with a pretty face Cassadee Pope. So, I am completely unsure of who will win this thing, each artist is so strong in their own right. Potentially, any one of them could release a great album with the right song writers, songs, and producers.
On The X Factor, Cece Frey and Diamond White participated in the Pepsi Challenge (where the public votes for every aspect of each artist's performance from their song down to their outfit and the stage), but it wasn't enough to win them votes. For Demi, it meant the end of the competition for her, her final contestant was voted off. Four acts remain, two of Simon's groups Emblem3 and Fifth Harmony, Tate Stevens from L.A.'s Team, and Carly Rose Sonenclar from Britney's Team. Each remaining act is definitely in it to win it. Fifth Harmony was improved leaps and bounds every single week. Their save me song this week, Anytime You Need A Friend, by Mariah Carey was the most stunning performance by them to date. There was so much passion in the performance that it begged the question, how could you not save them? Emblem3 will continue to receive loads of votes from teenage and college girls; they also have a real likeability, you want them to do well. I think Demi saying that they are much like The Jonas Brothers was pretty wrong. Emblem3 sounds different, stylistically, they're unique. Tate Stevens is the family man with tons of heart and a golden voice. He's been in cruise control for the majority of this competition. Some think the only person who can beat him is Carly Rose. Carly Rose is amazing, when she sings, I don't believe it because she's so young and yet she has so much poise, maturity, and passion when she sings these songs that you have no choice but to believe her. It's Fifth Hamony and Emblem3's competition to win and it's Tate and Carly Rose's competition to lose. I have a feeling that we'll be seeing more than just the winner after this competition is over.
On The Voice, Adam lost the rest of his team, Amanda Brown and Melanie Martinez, making this a two man race in the finals. It's Cee Lo Green versus Blake Shelton. Cee Lo boasts young soul singer Trevin Hunte and guy from another time with the distinct voice, Nicholas David. Blake's team is not shabby with authentic Scottish rocker Terry McDermott and pop rock star with a pretty face Cassadee Pope. So, I am completely unsure of who will win this thing, each artist is so strong in their own right. Potentially, any one of them could release a great album with the right song writers, songs, and producers.
On The X Factor, Cece Frey and Diamond White participated in the Pepsi Challenge (where the public votes for every aspect of each artist's performance from their song down to their outfit and the stage), but it wasn't enough to win them votes. For Demi, it meant the end of the competition for her, her final contestant was voted off. Four acts remain, two of Simon's groups Emblem3 and Fifth Harmony, Tate Stevens from L.A.'s Team, and Carly Rose Sonenclar from Britney's Team. Each remaining act is definitely in it to win it. Fifth Harmony was improved leaps and bounds every single week. Their save me song this week, Anytime You Need A Friend, by Mariah Carey was the most stunning performance by them to date. There was so much passion in the performance that it begged the question, how could you not save them? Emblem3 will continue to receive loads of votes from teenage and college girls; they also have a real likeability, you want them to do well. I think Demi saying that they are much like The Jonas Brothers was pretty wrong. Emblem3 sounds different, stylistically, they're unique. Tate Stevens is the family man with tons of heart and a golden voice. He's been in cruise control for the majority of this competition. Some think the only person who can beat him is Carly Rose. Carly Rose is amazing, when she sings, I don't believe it because she's so young and yet she has so much poise, maturity, and passion when she sings these songs that you have no choice but to believe her. It's Fifth Hamony and Emblem3's competition to win and it's Tate and Carly Rose's competition to lose. I have a feeling that we'll be seeing more than just the winner after this competition is over.
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Reality Show Round-up: The X Factor and Dancing with the Stars All Stars Edition
It was a good week and a bad week for my weekly reality show roundup. I guess I would like to start with the bad and end on a good note.
The bad was The X Factor eliminations. Paige Thomas going home: not entirely surprising. Vino Alan going home: criminal. The category this week was number one hits, and several of the contestants had a solid week. My theory is that Paige went home because despite the fact that she had her strongest week ever vocally, it was too little too late. I actually loved her version of Never Gonna Give You Up by Rick Astley. It was so beautifully her style, and if that's the artist that Paige wants to be, I would buy her record. Vino sang You've Lost That Loving Feeling, which nothing against the greatness of that song, but that wasn't the right song for Vino. He needed to be singing something that was more a combination of soul and rock.
My three favorite performances of the week were:
Tate Stevens singing Somebody Like You by Keith Urban-- It was great to see Tate finally have some fun on stage.
Paige Thomas singing Never Gonna Give You Up by Rick Astley-- Simon said it all when he said, you looked and sounded like a legit pop star. I'm sorry to see her go.
Fifth Harmony singing Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You) by Kelly Clarkson-- The girl group grows and improves each passing week, Simon has true diamonds in the rough in his hands.
Now for the good news! Dancing with the Stars All Stars had an amazing finale; it was an all girl finale. Shawn Johnson and Derek Hough, Kelly Monaco and Val Chmerkovskiy, and Melissa Rycroft and Tony Dovolani squared off in the finals this week. After 14 seasons, Tony walked away with his first mirror ball, a well deserved one as he and Melissa, the only non champion in the group, won. Kelly came in third place; she gave tons of credit to Val saying that he made someone who can barely stand on her feet, dance. Shawn and Derek were the runners up in what is supposed to be Derek's final season. I love how Tom Bergeron announced the winner, and now they've won....... and the question was two or too? It was too. I've never seen a couple want it more and lead from start to finish. Melissa worked her tail off this season, and her amazing abs, and Tony's choreography was nothing short of impressive. It was perhaps his best choreography ever. The celebration was huge, Tony looked like a young boy celebrating on Christmas and Melissa was all smiles as well. What was even better was when the two appeared on Jimmy Kimmel. For a laugh, check out the video below.
The bad was The X Factor eliminations. Paige Thomas going home: not entirely surprising. Vino Alan going home: criminal. The category this week was number one hits, and several of the contestants had a solid week. My theory is that Paige went home because despite the fact that she had her strongest week ever vocally, it was too little too late. I actually loved her version of Never Gonna Give You Up by Rick Astley. It was so beautifully her style, and if that's the artist that Paige wants to be, I would buy her record. Vino sang You've Lost That Loving Feeling, which nothing against the greatness of that song, but that wasn't the right song for Vino. He needed to be singing something that was more a combination of soul and rock.
My three favorite performances of the week were:
Tate Stevens singing Somebody Like You by Keith Urban-- It was great to see Tate finally have some fun on stage.
Paige Thomas singing Never Gonna Give You Up by Rick Astley-- Simon said it all when he said, you looked and sounded like a legit pop star. I'm sorry to see her go.
Fifth Harmony singing Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You) by Kelly Clarkson-- The girl group grows and improves each passing week, Simon has true diamonds in the rough in his hands.
Now for the good news! Dancing with the Stars All Stars had an amazing finale; it was an all girl finale. Shawn Johnson and Derek Hough, Kelly Monaco and Val Chmerkovskiy, and Melissa Rycroft and Tony Dovolani squared off in the finals this week. After 14 seasons, Tony walked away with his first mirror ball, a well deserved one as he and Melissa, the only non champion in the group, won. Kelly came in third place; she gave tons of credit to Val saying that he made someone who can barely stand on her feet, dance. Shawn and Derek were the runners up in what is supposed to be Derek's final season. I love how Tom Bergeron announced the winner, and now they've won....... and the question was two or too? It was too. I've never seen a couple want it more and lead from start to finish. Melissa worked her tail off this season, and her amazing abs, and Tony's choreography was nothing short of impressive. It was perhaps his best choreography ever. The celebration was huge, Tony looked like a young boy celebrating on Christmas and Melissa was all smiles as well. What was even better was when the two appeared on Jimmy Kimmel. For a laugh, check out the video below.
Thursday, November 22, 2012
The X Factor Season 2: The Top 10 Perform-- Who will go home on Thanksgiving Day?
The contestants sang songs that reminded them of the people that they are thankful for.
Tate Stevens sang I'm Already There by Lonestar-- Britney said that Tate's performances are always so touching. Simon said that his voice was breaking in parts, but there's not a cat's chance in hell that he's going home. LA felt that Tate sang that song with a lot of confidence. Tate's a winner through and through and I can see him opening for some of country's biggest acts within the next two years. He's a bona-fied star.
Diamond White sang Because You Love Me by Celine Dion-- LA said, Diamond, you never had a moment like that, you are the truth. We're going to be hearing your name for many years. Demi said she was blown away. Simon said, fearless and incredible, I believed every single word of that lyric. Britney said it was so beautiful. Diamond keeps improving every week; she has such maturity. I am really thankful that she wasn't voted off a few weeks ago and that they brought her back.
Emblem3 sang Secret by One Republic-- LA thought their performance lacked emotion this being, what I'm thankful for week. Britney and Demi felt that their performance was a nice change of pace. Simon felt it was a great song choice. I like Emblem3 and I don't think that they should go home. I agree this performance was a bit lackluster, not as strong as previous weeks, but this is a talented group of young men.
Arin Ray sang Hero by Enrique Iglesias-- LA felt the song was too big for him. Demi said she would not have signed him if she was a record exec. and she thought it was boring. Simon said I don't think we are hearing who you are in the real world. He also asked him how he feels, and Arin said he would prefer to dance and perform something uptempo. I love Arin to pieces, but I wish he was allowed to sing something that reflected who he really is. If he gets through this week, which he could, because there were several people who were worse than him, he needs to bring it.
Cece Frey sang Wind Beneath My Wings by Better Midler-- Everyone praised her for her emotion, but the vocals were not good.
Fifth Harmony sang I'll Stand by You by The Pretenders-- LA thought it was great. Britney said it was a beautiful rendition of the song and she found it touching. Demi didn't like the song choice but remains a Fifth Harmony fan. Personally, I think Demi is being a hater. Simon said, I was crazy about the song and crazy about you girls. I think Simon has made a major discovery with these girls.
Beatrice Miller sang Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol-- Demi doesn't feel Beatrice progressing. Simon disagreed with Demi and felt that this week was better than last. Britney felt it was her best vocal yet. As a spirit and a person, I love Beatrice, but I think this was also a weak performance, although; better than last week.
Vino Alan sang Proud to be an American by Lee Greenwood-- Vino received a standing ovation from all four judges. Britney called his performance spot on, amazing. Demi said, for the first time, I see something special in you tonight. Simon reminded everyone never to judge a book by it's cover. He also told him that he sang with such sincerity. LA said, I'm so proud of you, you stand for the troops and I stand for you. What a special performance by Vino; I'm such a huge fan.
Paige Thomas sang Everytime by Britney Spears-- Britney thought that she performed her song beautifully, but LA didn't think it was good enough to get her out of the ten spot. Simon said that her emotion took over and ultimately it ended up being a weak performance because she couldn't keep it together. Demi even admitted that it was pitchy in points.
Carly Rose Sonenclar sang Somewhere Over the Rainbow-- LA called Carly a force of nature. Simon said she blew the competition open and he loved it and loved her version of the song. Britney said it was unreal. Carly is just amazing, and I cannot believe the level of talent that this 13 year old actually possess.
Who is in trouble tonight: Arin Ray, Beatrice Miller, Cece Frey, and Paige Thomas.
Tate Stevens sang I'm Already There by Lonestar-- Britney said that Tate's performances are always so touching. Simon said that his voice was breaking in parts, but there's not a cat's chance in hell that he's going home. LA felt that Tate sang that song with a lot of confidence. Tate's a winner through and through and I can see him opening for some of country's biggest acts within the next two years. He's a bona-fied star.
Diamond White sang Because You Love Me by Celine Dion-- LA said, Diamond, you never had a moment like that, you are the truth. We're going to be hearing your name for many years. Demi said she was blown away. Simon said, fearless and incredible, I believed every single word of that lyric. Britney said it was so beautiful. Diamond keeps improving every week; she has such maturity. I am really thankful that she wasn't voted off a few weeks ago and that they brought her back.
Emblem3 sang Secret by One Republic-- LA thought their performance lacked emotion this being, what I'm thankful for week. Britney and Demi felt that their performance was a nice change of pace. Simon felt it was a great song choice. I like Emblem3 and I don't think that they should go home. I agree this performance was a bit lackluster, not as strong as previous weeks, but this is a talented group of young men.
Arin Ray sang Hero by Enrique Iglesias-- LA felt the song was too big for him. Demi said she would not have signed him if she was a record exec. and she thought it was boring. Simon said I don't think we are hearing who you are in the real world. He also asked him how he feels, and Arin said he would prefer to dance and perform something uptempo. I love Arin to pieces, but I wish he was allowed to sing something that reflected who he really is. If he gets through this week, which he could, because there were several people who were worse than him, he needs to bring it.
Cece Frey sang Wind Beneath My Wings by Better Midler-- Everyone praised her for her emotion, but the vocals were not good.
Fifth Harmony sang I'll Stand by You by The Pretenders-- LA thought it was great. Britney said it was a beautiful rendition of the song and she found it touching. Demi didn't like the song choice but remains a Fifth Harmony fan. Personally, I think Demi is being a hater. Simon said, I was crazy about the song and crazy about you girls. I think Simon has made a major discovery with these girls.
Beatrice Miller sang Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol-- Demi doesn't feel Beatrice progressing. Simon disagreed with Demi and felt that this week was better than last. Britney felt it was her best vocal yet. As a spirit and a person, I love Beatrice, but I think this was also a weak performance, although; better than last week.
Vino Alan sang Proud to be an American by Lee Greenwood-- Vino received a standing ovation from all four judges. Britney called his performance spot on, amazing. Demi said, for the first time, I see something special in you tonight. Simon reminded everyone never to judge a book by it's cover. He also told him that he sang with such sincerity. LA said, I'm so proud of you, you stand for the troops and I stand for you. What a special performance by Vino; I'm such a huge fan.
Paige Thomas sang Everytime by Britney Spears-- Britney thought that she performed her song beautifully, but LA didn't think it was good enough to get her out of the ten spot. Simon said that her emotion took over and ultimately it ended up being a weak performance because she couldn't keep it together. Demi even admitted that it was pitchy in points.
Carly Rose Sonenclar sang Somewhere Over the Rainbow-- LA called Carly a force of nature. Simon said she blew the competition open and he loved it and loved her version of the song. Britney said it was unreal. Carly is just amazing, and I cannot believe the level of talent that this 13 year old actually possess.
Who is in trouble tonight: Arin Ray, Beatrice Miller, Cece Frey, and Paige Thomas.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
The X Factor: Season 2, The Top 12 Perform, but 2 Will Go Home!
I will expand upon this later, but here's a little list of who I think could be in trouble tonight: Beatrice Miller, Lyric 145, Arin Ray, Paige Thomas, and Cece Frey.
After many days of contemplating the results of this past weeks X Factor, I still wasn't able to make sense of it.
Well, one out of two ain't bad, Lyric 145 unfortunately did go home. They were undeveloped, they needed more time to establish who they were as artists. Jennel Garcia was a major surprise to me because she had real talent, raw talent. I truly believe that someone with her kind of voice and style is needed in music today. She fills a void left by Joan Jett, Pet Benatar, Heart, and Chrissie Hynde. Following the eliminations, both artists complained of being pushed in the wrong direction by their mentors and the producers of the show as far as strong choice. It was rather obvious. The songs and the performances themselves did not fit the artists. Jennel's song, Proud Mary, along with the dress didn't suit her, the song was far too mature for her. Lyric 145's song choice of E.T. by Katy Perry and We Will Rock You by Queen didn't fit, it was too rock and Britney is right, they're a hip hop group who should have been singing a hip hop track.
Overall, L.A. Reid has done a wonderful job of developing his artists and choosing songs which really fit their voices, personalities, and it makes them true to who they are. Vino Alan is a legit rock/ soul singer; it's a unique combination but it is who he is through and through. Let's Stay Together by Al Green was a wonderful choice for him. Demi Lovato was totally hating on him when she said that the performance was boring. I think in fact that she could be taking lessons in one respect or another from every other judge/ mentor on the panel. Demi had arguably the strongest team (Willie Jones, Jennel Garcia, Cece Frey, and Paige Thomas) and she has wrecked each artist one by one, none of her contestants are going to make it to the final, almost guaranteed. One of the four will be lucky if they make it past the halfway point in this Top 13. Tate Stevens, L.A.'s other artist is so good and so strong that he could literally leave this competition right now and go make a country record. This past week he sang From This Moment On by Shania Twain, it sounded like the song belonged to him and it was unbelievably heartfelt.
Britney Spears has done a surprisingly good job of making her artists vulnerable and helping them to relate to the public. She did a beautiful job with Carly Rose this week with My Heart Will Go On by Celine Dion, reason being, it didn't sound cheesy. I am still waiting for a breakthrough performance by Arin Ray and hopefully it will happen this coming week because if it doesn't he could be in grave danger of being voted off. Unlike what Demi said, this kid does have soul and he has grown and matured enormously in the past year. Beatrice Miller is mature for her age, but if Britney doesn't start picking better songs for her she could be in danger as well. Diamond White had a beautiful voice, so much so, that I don't quite understand why she was so low in the overall ratings. The public needs to pick up the phone for this young lady, any 15 year old who can make a believer out of me by convincingly singing a Whitney Houston song has talent.
Simon may have the female version of One Direction on his hands with the group Fifth Harmony (formerly 1432, formerly The Lylas). He seems to be headed in the right direction and vocally they seem to stretch and grow each week. Emblem3 is like a better version of Hanson and LFO. I love their energy, how on point they are vocally. I truly believe that in a couple of years they could be performing on music award stages and touring the country if managed correctly and given the right set of songs. After all, so much hinges on that today. People like Taylor Swift, Kelly Clarkson, Maroon 5, Usher, and Carrie Underwood aren't discovered every day. As artists, they dig deep not only singing from their heart and soul but writing from there as well. Emblem3 seems to possess that quality.
After many days of contemplating the results of this past weeks X Factor, I still wasn't able to make sense of it.
Well, one out of two ain't bad, Lyric 145 unfortunately did go home. They were undeveloped, they needed more time to establish who they were as artists. Jennel Garcia was a major surprise to me because she had real talent, raw talent. I truly believe that someone with her kind of voice and style is needed in music today. She fills a void left by Joan Jett, Pet Benatar, Heart, and Chrissie Hynde. Following the eliminations, both artists complained of being pushed in the wrong direction by their mentors and the producers of the show as far as strong choice. It was rather obvious. The songs and the performances themselves did not fit the artists. Jennel's song, Proud Mary, along with the dress didn't suit her, the song was far too mature for her. Lyric 145's song choice of E.T. by Katy Perry and We Will Rock You by Queen didn't fit, it was too rock and Britney is right, they're a hip hop group who should have been singing a hip hop track.
Overall, L.A. Reid has done a wonderful job of developing his artists and choosing songs which really fit their voices, personalities, and it makes them true to who they are. Vino Alan is a legit rock/ soul singer; it's a unique combination but it is who he is through and through. Let's Stay Together by Al Green was a wonderful choice for him. Demi Lovato was totally hating on him when she said that the performance was boring. I think in fact that she could be taking lessons in one respect or another from every other judge/ mentor on the panel. Demi had arguably the strongest team (Willie Jones, Jennel Garcia, Cece Frey, and Paige Thomas) and she has wrecked each artist one by one, none of her contestants are going to make it to the final, almost guaranteed. One of the four will be lucky if they make it past the halfway point in this Top 13. Tate Stevens, L.A.'s other artist is so good and so strong that he could literally leave this competition right now and go make a country record. This past week he sang From This Moment On by Shania Twain, it sounded like the song belonged to him and it was unbelievably heartfelt.
Britney Spears has done a surprisingly good job of making her artists vulnerable and helping them to relate to the public. She did a beautiful job with Carly Rose this week with My Heart Will Go On by Celine Dion, reason being, it didn't sound cheesy. I am still waiting for a breakthrough performance by Arin Ray and hopefully it will happen this coming week because if it doesn't he could be in grave danger of being voted off. Unlike what Demi said, this kid does have soul and he has grown and matured enormously in the past year. Beatrice Miller is mature for her age, but if Britney doesn't start picking better songs for her she could be in danger as well. Diamond White had a beautiful voice, so much so, that I don't quite understand why she was so low in the overall ratings. The public needs to pick up the phone for this young lady, any 15 year old who can make a believer out of me by convincingly singing a Whitney Houston song has talent.
Simon may have the female version of One Direction on his hands with the group Fifth Harmony (formerly 1432, formerly The Lylas). He seems to be headed in the right direction and vocally they seem to stretch and grow each week. Emblem3 is like a better version of Hanson and LFO. I love their energy, how on point they are vocally. I truly believe that in a couple of years they could be performing on music award stages and touring the country if managed correctly and given the right set of songs. After all, so much hinges on that today. People like Taylor Swift, Kelly Clarkson, Maroon 5, Usher, and Carrie Underwood aren't discovered every day. As artists, they dig deep not only singing from their heart and soul but writing from there as well. Emblem3 seems to possess that quality.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
The X Factor Season 2: Cat Fight! Demi and Simon's Claws Come Out
Overall, this week's live show was an improvement over last weeks and this time America will decide who is eliminated. I think it was a great move to bring Diamond White back after last week's shocking elimination. I had a feeling they were going to do that. I thought that the tacky moment of the night was Demi Lovato criticizing everything Simon said as constructive criticism. Demi, Simon took a chance and gave you a job, yes, you're a great singer, but show some gratefulness and at least listen since you're the newcomer.
Arin Ray performed American Boy by Estelle-- He did take the judges advice; however, I just felt it lacked overall and maybe it wasn't the right song for him. Simon thinks he is turning into a pop star though and I do agree with that.
Paige Thomas performed Take My Breath Away by Berlin-- I'm with LA on this one, I liked it, but I wasn't blown away. Simon urged Demi not to turn this into a karaoke competition. This is where the bickering began. Demi kept trying to justify the theatrics of the performance.
Vino Alan performed When A Man Loves A Woman by Percy Sledge-- This was one of my favorite performances of the night. Britney loved how stripped down the performance was, so did I! Demi said, you're an incredible vocalist, but I don't know if you're a pop star. Simon told Vino that he went from zero to hero in a week, and he then criticized Demi's comments. LA actually admitted taking Simon's comments from last week to help Vino, and he did; this was a great performance.
Emblem3 performed a mash up of My Girl by The Temptations and California Girls by Katy Perry-- Another Demi criticism that makes no sense. She felt that Simon plugged One Direction (who he discovered) by having their track of That's What Makes You Beautiful playing in the background. This is the most ridiculous accusation ever, it's just a popular song right now, and a good one at that. LA felt that they were perfect. Simon said that they actually only had one day to rehearse this song, and they didn't once complain.
Beatrice Miller performed Iris by The Goo Goo Dolls-- I like Beatrice, although, there's a part of me that feels this song was a little too grown up for her. She does seem to be an old soul. Britney actually commented that she thinks Beatrice has the best personality of anyone in the competition. Demi said that she likes how she connects to every song that she sings.
Jennel Garcia performed I Love Rock N' Roll by Joan Jett-- LA and Simon both felt that there was no originality. Britney thought it was a hot performance. Simon made a comment that does make a lot of sense to me, he said he doesn't like what Demi had done with her look, she looks almost unrecognizable. I feel like Demi is trying to make Jennel look like her. Even Demi from week to week doesn't look like herself. The changes in her look seem to be so drastic and it's a little bit distracting.
Tate Stevens performed Dead or Alive by Bon Jovi-- Britney called Tate a true cowboy and said he nailed the performance. Demi feels that Tate has what it takes to be a star. Simon felt that on that night of performances, Tate finally arrived. I think this Southern gentleman is going to be around for a while.
Lyric145 performed Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious from Mary Poppins-- LA said it wasn't his cup of tea personally, but it was really good. This is one of those performances that I am torn about because it was a good idea in theory, but for some reason, I didn't love it. Britney found it both intriguing and entertaining. I don't think Lyric145 should go home but they may be in trouble this week.
Diamond White performed I Have Nothing by Whitney Houston-- LA said she brought it, Demi thought it was phenomenal, and Simon called it great vocal, great song, great performance. Britney felt that she channeled Whitney. It was a beautiful performance, and I am still just so happy that Diamond had the chance to come back, hopefully she won't be going anywhere for a while.
Cece Frey performed Eye of the Tiger by Survivor-- I thought this was the weakest vocal of the night and probably the worst performance. LA said he was not blown away by this. Simon thought the song choice was horrible, and said Cece was going in a direction that she shouldn't be going in. I think Cece should go home, this wasn't good by any means, but Demi won't take any of the blame for it.
Carly Rose Sonenclar performed It Will Rain by Bruno Mars-- LA called it heartfelt, honest, and he loved it. Demi said that she would watch this over and over again. Simon said that Britney did a good job with her and said this was a massive improvement over last week, and said we were watching a star in the making. Carly definitely gave the most powerful performance of the night.
Jason Brock performed I Believe I Can Fly by R. Kelly-- There is no question that Jason has a great voice, but for some reason, I did not believe him singing this song. Britney and Demi both felt it sounded and looked too much like a Vegas lounge act. Simon said he didn't believe it.
Fifth Harmony (formerly 1432) performed A Thousand Years by Christina Perri-- This was awesome, I think Simon is definitely onto something with this group of young women. LA said he was actually impressed. Britney said they shined the whole way, and Demi said that what separates them from other girl groups is that they are all strong vocalists. Simon said he was excited about their potential and said how proud of them he was.
My predictions for the bottom 3: Cece Frey, Jason Brock, and either Lyric145 or Beatrice Miller
Arin Ray performed American Boy by Estelle-- He did take the judges advice; however, I just felt it lacked overall and maybe it wasn't the right song for him. Simon thinks he is turning into a pop star though and I do agree with that.
Paige Thomas performed Take My Breath Away by Berlin-- I'm with LA on this one, I liked it, but I wasn't blown away. Simon urged Demi not to turn this into a karaoke competition. This is where the bickering began. Demi kept trying to justify the theatrics of the performance.
Vino Alan performed When A Man Loves A Woman by Percy Sledge-- This was one of my favorite performances of the night. Britney loved how stripped down the performance was, so did I! Demi said, you're an incredible vocalist, but I don't know if you're a pop star. Simon told Vino that he went from zero to hero in a week, and he then criticized Demi's comments. LA actually admitted taking Simon's comments from last week to help Vino, and he did; this was a great performance.
Emblem3 performed a mash up of My Girl by The Temptations and California Girls by Katy Perry-- Another Demi criticism that makes no sense. She felt that Simon plugged One Direction (who he discovered) by having their track of That's What Makes You Beautiful playing in the background. This is the most ridiculous accusation ever, it's just a popular song right now, and a good one at that. LA felt that they were perfect. Simon said that they actually only had one day to rehearse this song, and they didn't once complain.
Beatrice Miller performed Iris by The Goo Goo Dolls-- I like Beatrice, although, there's a part of me that feels this song was a little too grown up for her. She does seem to be an old soul. Britney actually commented that she thinks Beatrice has the best personality of anyone in the competition. Demi said that she likes how she connects to every song that she sings.
Jennel Garcia performed I Love Rock N' Roll by Joan Jett-- LA and Simon both felt that there was no originality. Britney thought it was a hot performance. Simon made a comment that does make a lot of sense to me, he said he doesn't like what Demi had done with her look, she looks almost unrecognizable. I feel like Demi is trying to make Jennel look like her. Even Demi from week to week doesn't look like herself. The changes in her look seem to be so drastic and it's a little bit distracting.
Tate Stevens performed Dead or Alive by Bon Jovi-- Britney called Tate a true cowboy and said he nailed the performance. Demi feels that Tate has what it takes to be a star. Simon felt that on that night of performances, Tate finally arrived. I think this Southern gentleman is going to be around for a while.
Lyric145 performed Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious from Mary Poppins-- LA said it wasn't his cup of tea personally, but it was really good. This is one of those performances that I am torn about because it was a good idea in theory, but for some reason, I didn't love it. Britney found it both intriguing and entertaining. I don't think Lyric145 should go home but they may be in trouble this week.
Diamond White performed I Have Nothing by Whitney Houston-- LA said she brought it, Demi thought it was phenomenal, and Simon called it great vocal, great song, great performance. Britney felt that she channeled Whitney. It was a beautiful performance, and I am still just so happy that Diamond had the chance to come back, hopefully she won't be going anywhere for a while.
Cece Frey performed Eye of the Tiger by Survivor-- I thought this was the weakest vocal of the night and probably the worst performance. LA said he was not blown away by this. Simon thought the song choice was horrible, and said Cece was going in a direction that she shouldn't be going in. I think Cece should go home, this wasn't good by any means, but Demi won't take any of the blame for it.
Carly Rose Sonenclar performed It Will Rain by Bruno Mars-- LA called it heartfelt, honest, and he loved it. Demi said that she would watch this over and over again. Simon said that Britney did a good job with her and said this was a massive improvement over last week, and said we were watching a star in the making. Carly definitely gave the most powerful performance of the night.
Jason Brock performed I Believe I Can Fly by R. Kelly-- There is no question that Jason has a great voice, but for some reason, I did not believe him singing this song. Britney and Demi both felt it sounded and looked too much like a Vegas lounge act. Simon said he didn't believe it.
Fifth Harmony (formerly 1432) performed A Thousand Years by Christina Perri-- This was awesome, I think Simon is definitely onto something with this group of young women. LA said he was actually impressed. Britney said they shined the whole way, and Demi said that what separates them from other girl groups is that they are all strong vocalists. Simon said he was excited about their potential and said how proud of them he was.
My predictions for the bottom 3: Cece Frey, Jason Brock, and either Lyric145 or Beatrice Miller
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