American Idol Season 12: The Top 8 Become 7

This week on American Idol, the contestants were mentored by Motown legend Smokey Robinson as they took on the songs of Motown. Overall, it was a night filled with okay performances.

The top three performances of the night for me were Amber, Kree, and Janelle in that order with Burnell coming a close fourth.

Amber sang Lately by Stevie Wonder-- She was the only contestant of the night to receive a standing ovation from the judges. Her vocal was honestly in a class by itself. I think so much has been made of Candice throughout this competition, and everyone has kind of forgotten about Amber. To me, she has a voice like Whitney Houston. Mariah called it a tour de force. Keith told her that she sang it and felt it beautifully. Nicki told her that her vocals are unmatched. Randy said she was the best of the night and continues to grow every week.

Kree sang Don't Play that Song by Aretha Franklin and even got props from the Queen of Soul herself. Kree's voice was strong in this, and she just proves every week how much she wants to be here. Randy told her that she is here to stay in this competition. Keith loved that she sounded like herself but sang an Aretha song. Nicki called Kree a "Queen".

Janelle sang You Keep Me Hangin' On by The Supremes-- I absolutely loved the way she reinvented this piece. She breathed new life into, and made it sound like something we could hear on country or pop radio today. Mariah thought that the performance was Janelle at her finest. Keith loved her fearlessness and the arrangement. Nicki didn't like it very much and thought it wasn't like it normally was. Randy felt quite the opposite and thought it was one of Janelle's best performances on the show.

Burnell, my honorable mention of the week, sang My Cherie Amor by Stevie Wonder-- Beautifully phrased and always original, Burnell leads not follows with each song choice and performance. It's not what he sings, but how he sings it.

The rest of the story: Love Lazaro, but sooner or later, the votes are going to catch up to him and not be enough to keep pushing him through and allowing him more chances in the competition. He sang For Once in my Life, but it wasn't believable.

Candice played it safer than I like. She sang I Heard it Through the Grapevine which was rather predictable, but what wasn't was the rock twist she put on the song. It wasn't her. She remains one of the strongest contestants though.

Poor Devin was sacrificed this week after turning in his best performance to date with Tracks of my Tears. When you look at the entire picture, it was probably right for him to go this week. If you're looking at contestants in terms of improvement, then he didn't deserve to go because he has consistently improved. He took criticism well, and it wasn't always pretty. Overall, Lazaro probably should have gone home.

Angie sang Shop Around; this was super strange. It was not Angie's style. Luckily, she's stronger than a number of contestants and this performance wasn't her last, but she needs to forget about everyone in her ear telling her to do something different. People like Angie because of who she is, and that should never be compromised. She needs to take a cue from Burnell and remember to be herself at all times.

That's my take, and with Devin gone, we're down to seven, and only two of those seven are guys. I also wanted to comment on Nicki's comments on Twitter after Devin was voted off. This article says it all; read away! Nicki is the one who needs to be gracious and grow up, none of the other judges are acting like this, and it's all a testament to her tastelessness and tackiness. It's so cheap of her to take shots at the contestants, and I get critiquing them, but embarrassing them? Nicki is purposely not using the save because Devin is a male; it's just not right. And when exactly did the young man not act gracious? When Nicki chided him on national TV? Also, Nicki's hatred for Mariah Carey is reflecting onto the contestants and that's wrong too; Nicki do your job and save the hate for later. I want Devin to succeed as a result of her hate because at 30, she just doesn't act it. I definitely do not want to see her on Idol next year.

American Idol Season 12: The Top 9 and the Lennon McCartney Songbook

This was a bland night of performances; I was disappointed overall. Only about half of the contestants stepped up and delivered performances that were on par with where they should be in the competition right now.

Who was great?

Kree sang With a Little Help from My Friends-- Kree continues to amaze in this competition. She's so special because her talent it so effortless. The judges all agree and can't help but praise her performance. Keith loves that she made it her own, and Randy thought  she blew the vocals out of the water.

Janelle sang I Will-- This was a  sweet performance and I actually had to go back and listen to it to realize that. Janelle's talent is natural. Nicki said she loved it and has grown even more obsessed with Janelle. She discusses the greatness of Janelle's tone and how much she doesn't have to say what she is, she just is.

Candice sang Come Together-- Candice's vocals never fail to amaze me. Keith loves the "rock" side of her. Nicki continues to make weird comments, this time about Candice's face when she sings. Mariah compares Candice to a prized fighter.

Who may be going home?

Lazaro sang In My Life-- Love Lazaro and love his whole story and how inspiring he is. All that being said, this was not a good performance by any means; it was off key and it wasn't Lazaro. Most of the judges felt it was his weakest performance to date. He's lucky and honestly got past this week by the skin of his teeth.

Paul sang Eleanor Rigby-- This poor guy was voted off on Thursday and in my opinion it's because the judges threw him under the bus on Wednesday. His performance was definitely not as bad as they said it was. The only thing I never understood about Paul was his desire to be a country singer, he doesn't read country to me. I feel like he would be much better as an adult contemporary artist.

Amber sang She's Leaving Home-- I've actually never heard this song before, and I didn't think it was a strong performance by Amber, and the song choice played a huge part in that. There were so many other choices she could have made that would have been more beneficial to her. She's actually lucky she didn't go home. Randy thought it started slow but loved the power of the second half of the song. Nicki didn't like it.

Middle of the Pack:


Burnell sang Let it Be-- Once again, the strongest guy of the night. I think this was a wonderful song choice for him because he took the song and turned it into a spiritual. Mariah loved his consistency and authenticity, it's so true, he's such a solid singer, and he really knows what is right for his voice. His tone just continues to be so impressive. I could have also seen him singing a song like Yesterday, kind of the way Boyz II Men sang it.

Devin sang The Long and Winding Road-- This is the first time I actually liked one of Devin's performances. This was touching and, I felt, sincere. Keith wanted him to have more of an emotional connection with the song, which I have trouble understanding since I felt he was so committed. Nicki agreed saying she had no idea what Keith was talking about and felt Devin was indeed connected to the song. Not sure I'd go as far as Mariah to say that it would be a travesty if he was voted off, but I will say: vast improvement over the past weeks.

Angie sang Yesterday-- I love Angie, and I think she definitely knows who she is as an artist. At the same time, I need to say that I feel like this performance was overly dramatic-- the phrasing, and the way that she took a slow song and slowed it down even more. The judge that said what made the most sense was Keith: he said it was a little too in her head at moments. I agree with him, it was almost over thought.

Only eight remain when Paul Jolley was sent home, now that was a travesty. I heard that next week is all about Motown! I love that theme, it's always exciting, and I cannot wait to hear the song choices that the contestants make.

American Idol Season 12: The Top 10 Perform

Last night was the American Idol Winners' Song Books, and it was also a night of mediocre performances which left me wondering if we chose the right ten. It was especially obvious and apparent with the guys performances-- the song selections, the arrangements, most of the guys were just not in good voice last night. As for the ladies, they were confident, strong, and their song choices reflected that.

First up was Curtis Finch Jr. who sang I Believe by Fantasia-- I Believe was truly one of Fantasia's performance songs, not just on Idol, but in general. Curtis would have had to have real skills to nail this number, and he just didn't. The phrasing wasn't great, he was pitchy, and the last note in particular was not good. Randy wanted him to show other sides of himself. Mariah liked the choir feeling; I agree with that [art of it, but this was not by any means a good performance.

Janelle Arthur sang Gone by Montgomery Gentry (Scotty McCreery Song Book)-- This was the weakest performance of all the ladies. On the positive side of things, Janelle had great confidence and lots of energy and personality on stage. Nicki commented on her confidence, but said that she wanted her to sing songs that showcase the pretty part of her voice. Randy did not like the song choice which goes back to what Keith said, he said that he had never heard a woman sing this song, and maybe there's a reason for that. For the majority of women, that song doesn't sit in the sweet part of their voice.

Devin Velez sang Temporary Home by Carrie Underwood-- This was one of the weakest performances of the night. I thought the song choice was terrible, I don't even understand why he chose it, it certainly didn't seem like he related to the song. Keith said it was not one of his best performances, and it was the wrong song choice. Nicki, who clearly was out of it last night, said she thought that was totally him, and she liked the performance and song choice. Randy called it way too safe, and thought that he underplayed himself. Mariah told him to keep his confidence.

Angie Miller sang I Surrender by Celine Dion (Kelly Clarkson Song Book)-- This was a strong performance, not the best of the night for the ladies, but middle of the pack, and overall one of the best of the night. Angie is a consistent performer and she has a very original style. Keith called Angie "an artist" and said that she can take any song, sing it, and make it current. Nicki told her that she looked like a billion dollars and that she's perfection on every level, your voice is flawless, and you're amazing, congratulations! Randy believed that the competition started with the performance; I'd agree with that. Mariah said one word: stellar.

Paul Jolley sang Amazed by Lone Star (Scotty McCreery Song Book)-- Second strongest performance for the men of the night. Paul was a great voice, and I do have to comment that I love the way he was styled. Keith felt that Paul listened to the advice of Jimmy and the judges. Nicki said that tonight was the first time that Paul stimulated her sexual appetite. She also added that he was styled very well and comfortable on the stage. Randy commended him on his song choice. I think the song choice was great too.

Candice Glover sang I Who Have Nothing by Shirley Bassey (Jordin Sparks Song Book)-- This one of the performances of the night and probably one of the best of the series. Candice really took it to another level last night, and she really turned me into a believer because I must admit that I wasn't completely convinced when it comes to her. Keith, Nicki, and Randy were on their feet (Mariah said she was too in spirit, it's just that her skirt was too tight). Keith said I love you so much, you have that command and effortlessness liek Shirley Bassey, incredible baby, amazing. Nicki said no one should ever sing that song again on Idol because you destroyed that. You did the "barbz" (Nicki's followers) proud. Randy said it was one of the best performances of Season 12. Mariah said your performance was in my heart.

Lazaro Arbos sang Breakway by Kelly Clarkson-- Love Lazaro and admire his courage. This wasn't his best, but the effort was there. He needs to pick something that sits in that sweet spot of his voice. Keith didn't like it. Randy thought that the song was too big for Lazaro. Mariah said that people are falling in love with his courage.

Kree Harrison sang Crying by Roy Orbison (Carrie Underwood Song Book)-- The other best performance of the night was this one. Kree's voice was genuine, her emotions were so authentic, and her voice just soared on the big notes. The ending literally brought tears to my eyes. Keith said he loves her voice so much. Nicki said her performance was smooth, delicious. and fun. Randy said he loved her voice and the feeling that she put into this performance. Mariah said that her range is obvious, and said that she chose one of the best songs ever written.

Burnell Taylor sang Flying Without Wings by Reuben Studdard-- The strongest guy performance of the night goes to this man who continues to impress me. His phrasing, his tone, and his voice, are just so special and immediately when I hear him, I can identify him. Keith liked his eccentricity and found it magnetic. Nicki loved his song choice and said that he is well on his way. Randy said he's in the zone. Mariah loved the melodic choices that he made in the song.

Amber Holcomb sang A Moment Like This by Kelly Clarkson-- The arrangement for this performance was terrible, but Amber's voice was all that and completely made up for it. I didn't like how the performance started in the middle of the song; it was just weird. Once again though, she reminded me of Whitney, the personality, the smile, and the way her voice just so naturally goes to where it needs to be. Keith loved how easy this was for her. Nicki felt it was the best performance of the night. I would say top three, but not the best. Nicki also said she sounded like Whitney on her first album. Randy told Amber that she blew it out of the box tonight, and called the song his fave finale song, by one of his fave Idols ever. Mariah said, "power" and you have such a natural gift.

Who is in trouble? Curtis, Janelle, Devin, and Lazaro

Best performances of the night?
tied for first: Candice and Kree
second: Amber
tied for third: Angie and Burnell

Middle of the pack?
Paul

American Idol Season 12: The Top 10 Guys Leave it All on the Line for a Spot in the Top 10

Elijah Liu sang Stay by Rihanna-- Wow, actually really liked Elijah's performance more than I thought I would. Keith thought his voice and control was great. Nicki said she liked it a lot and said she'd be willing to stay. Randy liked it better than last week and feels he is current; although, he was waiting for him to up the ante. Mariah thought it was confident and strong and she liked the song choice. So all the judges were in agreement about the song choice.

Cortez Shaw sang Locked Out of Heaven by Bruno Mars-- Love Cortez, I think he would benefit from some vocal training, and I say this in the nicest way cause he is so talented, but sometimes he is right under the note rather than on it. Keith said he loved his spirit in the song, but didn't like that song for him. Nicki insulted his wardrobe (ummm Nicki, at this stage in the competition, the kids are dressing themselves). Randy felt like he was under pitch, but liked the song choice and his dance moves. Mariah felt he should have started it down a half step; I totally agree with Mariah.

Charlie Askew sang Mama by Genesis-- The vocals in this were not good, and the sad part is that I believed him to be a front runner last week. Nicki says she didn't like it and said that she wanted the kid from last week back. Randy said the front part was terrible and he didn't get it. Mariah took is easy up him because she could see he was visibly upset. This is so sad, because honestly, this is a really good kid. I would like him to have another chance.

Nick Boddington sang Iris by The Goo Goo Dolls-- Nick as a singer has mastered the vulnerability part; he is completely vulnerable in every performance and that's why emotionally, it works. I also love that he made this very recognizable song his own. Keith thought it was perfect for him. Nicki said that Iris is one of her favorite songs, and she did feel it was his comfort zone, but she would have liked to hear more melody. Randy thought good, not great.

Burnell Taylor sang I'm Here from The Color Purple-- Without question, Burnell is talented, I could see him on Broadway. My issue is he repeated a song this early in the competition; he would have been better to hold this until later on (say top 5) because I believe that's his potential. It also makes you question how much versatility he possesses. Keith believes and feels his performance. Nicki wasn't feeling that he sang the same song again, but she did say she loves him. Randy said you capture people from the first word. Mariah said I have so much love for you.

Paul Jolley sang Just a Fool by Christina Aguilera and Blake Shelton-- Woah! There were some pitchy parts and he was really screaming the song for almost the whole second half. Keith reminded him not to underestimate himself. Nicki told Paul to listen to Keith because he knows what it takes, but she thought he had a solid performance. Mariah was unaware that he wanted to be a pop country artist.

Lazaro Arbos sang Feeling Good by Nina Simone-- I love his spirit and his personality, his vocal was good, but it wasn't great. He needs to work on his vocals; they need to be as good as his connection to the audience. Nicki loved him and thought it was a strong vocal with attitude on it. Randy thinks he is in it to win. Mariah is impressed with how he throws himself fully into every performance. She did feel the song was a little bit too low for him.

Curtis Finch Jr. sang I Believe I Can Fly by R. Kelly-- The vocals were incredible, I felt every word, his runs were simply awesome, and he got a standing ovation from all four judges. Keith said we just had a sermon in Vegas, and said this was just such a positive and hopeful performance. Nicki said you always raise the bar. Nicki urged him to make an album like that because that's who he is and that's what he needs right now. Randy said the night just started when Curtis sang. Mariah said she was thankful for him and the fact that she shared it with all of us. Wow!!

Devin Velez sang It's Impossible by Perry Como-- I am pretty torn on this performance because it sounded great, and my impression of Devin as a singer changed, but at the same time, it wasn't current. Keith liked his runs, Nicki didn't really comment, she just tried to babble in Spanish. Mariah thought it was incredible. My problem with this performance is that if he keeps breaking out the Spanish every time, he's going to become a one trick pony.

Vincent Powell sang End of the Road by Boyz II Men-- Keith said the nerves got on top of your talent. Nicki felt that the song wasn't right for him. Randy said it wasn't your best, but it was good, you're still one of the greatest singers in this. Mariah said there were moments of brilliance in that performance. I want America to vote for you, said Mariah. I agree, I don't think it's a top ten without Vincent. I feel like he over-sang it out of nervousness and desperation.

Who is top ten bound?
Burnell Taylor
Curtis Finch Jr.
Elijah Liu
Lazaro Arbos
Vincent Powell
possible alternates or Wild Cards-- Cortez Shaw and Nick Boddington

American Idol: Season 12-- 10 of the Men Sing, Five Go Home

It was another one of those nights, except tonight it was ten of the men, some contestants chose songs that were completely unrecognizable and thus they rendered themselves unmemorable as well. Tonight was also the same as last night in that I agreed with four out of the five choices as to who should move on in this competition. I'd like to argue that Johnny Keyser did not deserve to get sent home. Devin Velez shouldn't have gone through, the song choice, Listen by Beyonce, was questionable at best, and the vocal was not really that impressive. Keyser is someone I had been watching since Idol Season 11, he's someone that I had in my top ten this year. I think he's grown immeasurably in that one year, perhaps what Velez needs now.

Who Just Didn't Do it For Me--

JDA (pronounced Jada) sang Rumor Has It by Adele-- Okay, okay, I'll give him the performance factor but the vocals just weren't there.

Kevin Harris sang Everything I Do I Do it For You by Bryan Adams-- I actually felt his sincerity as a person in this performance, but for some reason, the vocal sat flat. I also didn't like the ending, I found it over the top and abrupt. Randy found this performance boring as well as several other performances tonight which I completely agree with. I don't quite understand what was going on, but little really moved me.

Chris Watson sang Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding-- I'll admit that Chris has good looks to go along with the good voice, but this song choice just didn't make sense. I was thrown off by the outfit with the song; it just didn't go together. It seemed very strange. Mariah didn't think it was his best performance but felt his charisma; I felt it too, maybe a wild card winner along with Johnny Keyser?

Jimmy Smith sang Raining on Sunday by Keith Urban-- I think I saw and heard what Mariah was talking about when she said there's something special about Jimmy. Unfortunately, tonight, when there were a few standouts, this just wasn't enough. Nicki and Randy found it boring, and I can't help but agree.

Who Should Have Gone Home?

Sorry Devin Velez, you weren't terrible, but personal preference, Johnny was better. Unless the next group of ten men is terrible, you'll be leaving us shortly. Randy thought it was amazing...... that statement is slightly exaggerated.

Who Stayed?

Paul Jolley sang Tonight I Wanna Cry by Keith Urban-- No offense to Keith, but I didn't think this was the best song for Paul. I actually agree with what Jimmy Iovine said, great singer, wrong song. Something Keith said that was really great was that Paul should not underestimate the power of his voice.

Curtis Finch Jr. sang Superstar by Luther Vandross-- Curtis has a great voice, he's definitely a gospel style singer, but I agree with the judges, he has to be careful not to play it too old. He's only 25, and he reads 40. Randy is right though, so far his voice is unparalleled in this competition.

Elijah Liu sang Talking to the Moon by Bruno Mars-- I really like this young man, at the age of 18, he is exactly what he should be right now. As Keith said, he is relevant and that was the perfect song for him to sing. The combination of his voice and tone is amazing. Nicki called him a super duper star and said she loves him, and that his voice is beautiful. I feel like we'll be seeing him in the top ten.

Charlie Askew is another contestant who I think is going to go far in this competition, and he sang Rocket Man by Elton John-- I really had my doubts on this one because this could have been a big mess, but it was anything but. Charlie was really nervous, and he had absolutely no reason to be, this was perfection. Keith Urban described Charlie is: If Freddie Mercury had a love child at Woodstock. Nicki said that his awkwardness excites her and he is a rock star. Mariah loved the song choice. I think this is another young man top ten bound.

Who Didn't Deserve to Go?

Johnny Keyser sang I Won't Give Up by Jason Mraz-- Keith said the performance had a definite effortlessness about it; his voice did too. Nicki felt that he looked sexy and came out relaxed. Mariah said she loves how committed he is to music and hopes that he is around for a while. Well all I have to say is, unless you guys plan on bringing him back for some kind of wild card that's up your sleeve, he won't be around for a while.

What did all of you think? Was this the right five to move forward?

Staying: Charlie Askew, Curtis Finch Jr., Elijah Liu, Paul Jolley, Devin Velez