American Idol 2021 The Top 24 Sing for Their "Future" on The Show

Sunday and Monday on American Idol the Top 24 performed solos as well as performing duets with well established artists. This year has such a high percentage of talented artists, and I said artists on purpose. They are not just singers but artists, this is a talented group. Twelve performed the first night and another twelve on night two. Four contestants from each night will be sent home next week. Here's my assessment of who I think should stay and go. 

Part 1

Alanis Sophia sang Alive by Sia and did a duet with Jimmie Allen on the song Shallow by Lady Gaga & Bradley Cooper-- Alanis has a powerful voice and she's different. I see her genre as pop/ rock. There aren't a lot of female rockers today so that part of her appeals to me. Katy felt Alanis was perhaps overwhelmed by Jimmie's star presence. I mean that makes sense. She would be overwhelmed. I think I agree with Lionel-- that maybe there were nerves, but I do think she should move to the Top 16.   

Cassandra Coleman sang Find Me by Sigma feat. Birdy and did a duet with Ryan Tedder on the song Apologize by OneRepublic-- Cassandra has a beautiful voice. She actually reminds me a lot of Florence Welch from Florence and the Machine. There is almost this ethereal quality to her vocals, stunning! The duet was perfection-- just so flawless by both of them. Lionel thought it was a great performance. Luke said she grows every time we see her. Katy said your voice is an otherworldly experience. This girl is made for the Top 16, and whatever else. 

Alyssa Wray sang Something in the Water by Carrie Underwood and did a duet with Katharine McPhee on the song I'm Your Baby Tonight by Whitney Houston-- Okay, the ladies brought it Sunday night. I love Alyssa's confidence, there is so much joy in her solo. She is someone who comes across to me that she sings for the happiness of singing. Her duet with Katharine was so on point, and as Lionel pointed out, they complimented each other beautifully. Katy said it can get too polished and perfect, don't be afraid to get a little dirty with it. Luke spoke up Alyssa's star quality which I agree-- having her sing Whitney Houston really worked beautifully. Send her to the Top 16! 

Wyatt Pike sang Rubberband by Tate McRae and did a duet with Ben Rector on the song Brand New by Ben Rector-- The solo was a little underwhelming but I feel like that's his vibe. The song with Ben was great, they suit each other from a style standpoint. Lionel felt he owned the moment. Katy comments about him looking like he just rolled out of bed but being a complete star. He's a toss up, I think he might just slip into the Top 16. 

Alana sang Blow Your Mind by Dua Lipa and did a duet with Brian McKnight on the song Back at One by Brian McKnight-- I love Alana's stage presence. She is really great with the way she plays to the crowd. Brian is a masterclass when it comes to singing. I felt him holding back some in the performance in order to accomodate and play to her strengths. Lionel told her to play more to her attitude. Katy said she needs to take a risk on some notes. 

Anilee List sang My Future by Billie Eilish and did a duet with Joss Stone on the song Tell Me Something Good by Chaka Kahn and Rufus-- Her vocals on her duet were powerful but angellic. I love that she made the song have this declarative strength that it did not have before. This gave me tears. Her duet was so funky, I loved it. Katy said you took us to church and Luke said she is close to next level greatness. To think she took someone else's place in the Top 24 who couldn't stay. The Top 16 would literally not be complete without her. 

Deshawn Gonclaves sang Forever Young by Bob Dylan and did a duet with Ryan Tedder on the song I Lived-- Deshawn has a technically strong voice. I would say his biggest challenge would be letting go more and allowing himself to really feel the music. He speaks about his childhood, I want that some emotion to come across when he sings. He played it a little too safe and it could cost him the Top 16. 

Graham DeFranco sang Raye by John Splithoff and did a duet with Ben Rector on the song Love Like This by Ben Rector-- Graham reminds me of an indie artist named Josh Krajcik who was on The X Factor several years ago. He has a great voice, it's unique. His style is laid back back but it may be too laid back for purposes of this competition when there are so many strong contestants. Lionel says he has a great storytelling voice. Katy says she didn't feel connected to the first song at all. I don't think he is going to move forward to the Top 16.  

Andrea Valles sang Lo Vas a Olivdar by Billie Eilish and Rosalia and did a duet with Brian McKnight on the song Careless Whisper by Wham-- I loved that she chose to sing in Spanish for her solo. On her second song, Brian McKnight is just such a strong artist that he made Andrea sound incredible. He brought the best qualities out of her. He's such a massive talent and still has one of the smoothest voices in the business. I think she is going to sneak right into the Top 16. 

Cecil Ray sang Paint Me a Birmingham by Tracy Lawrence and did a duet with Jimmie Allen on the song Freedom is a Highway by Jimmie Allen and Brad Paisley-- This was probably the weakest solo performance. With the duet Jimmie totally carried him. Katy said he is the underdog. Luke said you got swallowed up a little bit and you had some pitch problems. Lionel said your hand got stuck in your pocket, we need your attitude to be in it. America may give him another chance because of his talent in earlier rounds. 

Willie Spence sang Wind Beneath my Wings by Bette Midler and did a duet with Katharine McPhee on the song The Prayer by Celine Dion and Andrea Boccelli-- Willie will never do any wrong with me but I wish he had not chosen such an old fashioned song like Wind Beneath My Wings. Now with his duet with Katharine-- he was amazing. The harmonizing and their voices together was perfect. Lionel said it was mesmerizing to watch. Top 16 is almost a lock for Willie. 

Grace Kinstler sang Queen by Jessie J and did a duet with Joss Stone on the song Midnight Train to Georgia by Gladys Knight & The Pips-- Completely a dark horse in this competition! She faced her fears on her solo, her confidence grew throughout the performance. These two were another amazing pairing. Joss once again is a perfect duet partner-- she brought so much goodness out of Grace's voice. Joss says save the good stuff for the end and she does. Luke says he loves watching Grace grow. Lionel said your voice quality and the way you carry yourself is a winning package. Katy said think about those timeless classic songs when you sing again. Girl is totally in the Top 16. 

Part 1 Predictions: 

Moving On to the Top 16: Alanis, Cassandra, Alyssa, Anilee, Andrea, Willie, Grace

Last Spot is going to be between Deshawn and Cecil 

Going Home: Wyatt, Alana, Graham

 Part 2

Jason Warrior sang Call Out My Name by The Weeknd and did a duet with P.J. Morton on the song How Deep is Your Love by The Bee Gees-- I don't think I was as excited and enthused as the judges were but I do think Jason, without question, did enough to move into the Top 16. I find him being a little theatrical at times. I want him to slow down and be himself. I want him to emote and react to the music. Katy said it was the best solo and duet performance so far (not too sure of that), Luke said he leaves it out there, and Lionel said he should give himself a pat on the back. 

Madison Watkins sang Holy by Justin Bieber and did a duet with Tori Kelly on the song Don't You Worry 'Bout a Thing by Stevie Wonder-- Unfortunately, one of the weaker performances of the group. I don't think it was the right song choice for her. On the duet, Tori really overshadowed her, and it was pretty clear. I would say she does continue to grow. Luke says she is a "natural entertainer". There is a chance based on how everyone else did that she could sneak into the Top 16.

Beane sang Don't Stop Now by Dua Lipa and did a duet with Josh Groban on the song Angels by Robbie Williams-- Another performance I wasn't too crazy about. I didn't like this version of Dua Lipa's song. Katy loves his artistry but I feel like Josh Groban pulled him across the finish line. I am going to say he doesn't make the Top 16. 

Hannah Everhart sang I Was Wrong by Chris Stapleton and did a duet with Jason Aldean on the song She's Country-- This is probably the overall weakest performance between both nights. Hannah is an extreme talent but there were way too many pitch issues throught both performances. I don't feel the judges were watching the same performances based on their comments. 

Mary Jo Young sang Castle on the Hill by Ed Sheeran and did a duet with Jewel on the song Foolish Games-- Actually loved this performance, didn't expect to like it as much as I did. Jewel brought out the best in both contestants that she worked with. Luke thought she had star quality. Katy said she is becoming a star. She should be in the Top 16.  

Chayce Beckham sang Afterglow by Ed Sheeran and did a duet with Brandon Boyd on the song Drive by Incubus-- This was one of my favorite and most authentic performances of this round for sure. Luke compared him to Bruce Springsteen and I agree. He sounded amazing. He and Brandon Boyd really seemed to be such a good match. I am obsessed with the rasp in Chayce's voice. Lionel said Chayce's voice is magical and indentifiable. Katy said Chayce reminds him of Alejandro ( I don't see that ). Cannot wait to see him in Top 16. 

Colin Jamieson sang Locked Out of Heaven by Bruno Mars and did a duet with Tori Kelly on the song Hollow-- Another favorite of mine. Colin is so different, and 100% knows who he is. He has this comfortaility on stage that cannot be taught. I love how he can sing any type of song. He and Tori brought out the best in each other, that's exactly what a duet is about. I think she was as happy as he was with what they accomplished. Katy said he sings like he plays 300 shows a year. I think he has character and I think he's in the Top 16. 

Liahona Olayan sang Just Friends by Audrey Mika and did a duet with PJ Morton on the song Say So by PJ Morton featuring JoJo-- This was a disaster for me. She sold it as best she could but it was pitchy all over the place. Her confidence was there but the notes were not. The judges believe in her and treat her like a prodigy but I see her as more of a folksy songwriter than a pop star. The judges still say she is super talented and all the things. I don't think she is moving in to the Top 16. 

Ava August sang Drivers License by Olivia Rodrigo and did a duet with Josh Groban on the song Both Sides Now by Joni Mitchell-- I think Ava is on to something. Wish she had chosen a different solo song as I think Drivers License is completely overplayed, but I get it, she's young. I want her to be herself more, not try to mimic other pop stars out there (at times she feels like Taylor Swift and I don't want her to, mainly because I think TayTay is overrated). She has a cool tone, I love the haunting sound of her voice, and her performance with Josh was moving. Lionel calls her an old soul. I could not agree more. Top 16 here she comes!

Caleb Kennedy sang Midnight Rider by The Allman Brothers and did a duet with Jason Aldean on the song Fly Over States-- Caleb has a good chance of making the Top 16, he isn't the best but there were a lot of other contestants that were all over the place and that bumps him up. I think he has some minor timing issues and little pitch issues here and there. These are all easy fixes though for someone like him. Jason Aldean gave him great advice-- "stay in the pocket". I liked him personally and I believe in him as a country artist. Luke liked him going outside of his comfort zone. I will be interested in seeing what he does next. 

Hunter Metts sang Chandelier by Sia and did a duet with Jewel on the song Who Will Save Your Soul-- Awesome song choices I would say he is being way too careful and too tentative. It's almost like he is a little scared and not completely confident. He has a different sound which could take him far. He's on the fence too in terms of the Top 16 in my opinion. Jewel is doing her best to drag the good stuff out of him in their duet performance. Lionel said he is a "stylist" but needs more confidence, Katy saw some fear. Lionel always has on point comments. 

Casey Bishop sang Decode by Paramore and did a duet with Brandon Boyd on the song Wish You Were Here by Incubus-- Love that she is young and a rocker! Paramore is one of my favorite groups and she knocked this out of the park. Brandon gives her great advice, "find your super hero stance". She did great but it felt like she could have given more, almost like we were waiting for this big moment. Katy said she needed to go bigger and I think, in this case, Katy was right. She is so good and so different though that she is going to move on without question. 

Part 2 Predictions: 

Moving On to the Top 16: Jason, Mary Jo, Chayce, Colin, Ava, Caleb, Casey

Last Spot is going to be between Madison and Hunter

Going Home: Hannah, Beane, and Liahona

There it is, my recap and predictions!

The Voice Season 11: The Knockouts Stun!

The Advisors for the Knockouts are Faith Hill and Tim McGraw 

Team Blake: Sundance Head singing The Climb by Miley Cyrus vs. Josh Gallagher singing My Maria by Brookes & Dunn-- I am so impressed with Josh and this song choice, wow! I love it, and he made it to the falsetto! Sundance was so soulful, and his performance with him just on guitar was so impactful. Alicia loved the timber in Josh's voice, and said she felt Sundance's performance. Miley felt like there is a place on country radio for Josh, and loved that he gave so much of himself to her song. Adam said Josh you've gotten better and better and better, sky's the limit, and Sundance, you came out guns a blazin'. 

Blake chose Sundance and Adam took no time stealing Josh! Amazing! 

Team Alicia: Kylie Rothfield singing Hound Dog by Big Mama Thornton vs. Whitney & Shannon singing I Won't Give Up by Jason Mraz-- I felt like Kylie took the direction from Faith and Tim really well. It definitely lived up to the swampy sound that they seemed to be going for. The girls are not as strong individually as they are together. Miley said Kylie there is no one on the show like you, and she thought Whitney & Shannon were great together. Adam said he might go with Kylie cause he's intrigued by her vibe. 

Alicia chose Kylie

Team Miley: Ali Caldwell singing No Ordinary Love by Sade vs. Lauren Diaz singing Rise Up by Andra Daye-- Lauren's voice was almost overly breathy, I know the song is great, but I don't think it was right for her. Ali is someone who is going to go so far in this, she picked a song that just really spoke to me, and I think so many people. Adam said Ali you could win this, I love you, and to say that is an understatement. Lauren, I connect with your performance, but I would go with Ali. Blake said I tried to think like Miley. Alicia liked where Miley took the performance, Alicia said Lauren had a breakthrough. Miley said Ali could win this and she has no idea, and Lauren you allowed everyone into your heart. 

Miley chose Ali 

Team Adam: Dave Moisan singing Like I Can Sam Smith vs. Simone Gundy singing Midnight Train to Georgia by Gladys Knight and the Pips-- I felt like the Sam Smith song wasn't right for Dave, it didn't seem in mind stylistically. Blake said he would go with Simone, so would I. I thought she was soulful and there was lots of feeling in that performance. Alicia didn't think Dave chose the best song for his voice. Miley said Adam has a tough choice ahead. 

Adam chose Simone 

Team Alicia: Courtnie Ramirez singing If I Were a Boy by Beyonce vs. We McDonald singing No More Drama by Mary J. Blige-- Not loving the slowness of Courtnie's performance, I also didn't love the song on her. Wow, We gave me chills! She has an amazing voice, her performance was flawless, I felt every note, I had tears. Miley said Courtnie outdid herself, and We had newfound confidence. Adam said We, we love all of you, and Courtnie you're coming into your own. Blake said We give me some of your talent, and Courtnie you have a charisma that makes you special. 

Alicia chose We 

Team Adam: Riley Elmore singing Haven't Met You Yet by Michael Buble vs. Jason Warrior singing I Want You by Luke James-- I genuinely liked both performances. This is hard, I feel like both of them should move forward. Alicia liked the playfulness of Riley's song, she said Jason is in the zone and hitting falsetto notes. Miley said Jason your performances are so genuine, and Riley I love watching you and your youthfulness and humbleness. Adam said Jason you're an incredible singer and a good human being, and Riley, your voice takes me back to a different time, I love you man.

Adam chose Riley and Blake stole Jason!  

 

 

The Voice Season 11: The Battle Rounds Are Here!

Team Alicia with advisor Charlie Puth: Christian Cuevas vs. Jason Warrior singing Hello by Adele-- Loved two men singing this, I didn't think I would but they both clearly made a connection with the song and each other. I don't think I can choose one. They were both amazing. Miley said Christian felt vulnerable and strong, and she felt Jason was such a performer. Blake loved Jason's delivery. Adam said you are both emotional dudes and the fact that one of you is going to be available right now blows my mind. Alicia liked how Christian let us into his world and Jason gets you want to be like him because he is so riveting.
Alicia chose Christian.... who is stealing Jason? Adam said I will not let you down, you're on the right team and he was the first person Adam turned for this season. Yes! Adam stole Jason!

Team Adam with advisor Sammy Hagar: Natasha Bure vs. Riley Elmore singing Cry Me a River by Michael Buble-- They were both great and I loved seeing their growth. Blake said Natasha sold the performance, but Riley was right on the money, he'd choose Natasha. Alicia thought Natasha sold it but Riley came through strong and she'd choose him. Miley said Natasha, you've grown such a performer today. Adam said Natasha I could not be more proud of you for getting over your fear, Riley your voice is so distinct and that's such a valuable quality to have.
Adam chose Riley

Team Miley with advisor Joan Jett: Ali Caldwell vs. Courtnie Ramirez singing Hit or Miss by Tom Jones-- Adam said Ali you're a maniac singer, I am still nursing my broken heart now, Courtnie you were amazing. Blake said Ali you're that good, I could see you in here til the end. Courtnie I'd choose you cause of the performance. Alicia said I was routing for both of you, I was so impressed. Miley said Ali you have so much style in your voice, and Courtnie your voice is so grounded, you're a rocker.
Miley chose Ali  .... Blake and Alicia both want to steal Courtnie and she chose Alicia

Team Blake with advisor Bette Midler: Dan Schafer vs. Sundance Head singing  Feel Like Makin' Love by Bad Company-- Both of them were great! The song was awesome for both guys. Alicia said Dan has an awesome, genuine way about him, and Sundance you're your own beautiful being. Miley said Dan used his stage and involved the crowd really well. Sundance had a beautiful note that he hit. Adam said it was so much fun and both guys are rad and he wishes they could play it again. Blake said Dan we talked about a lot of stuff, and we were worried about you as a performer. Sundance, even now, you stand there, but that voice is amazing and it blows me away.
Blake chose Sundance

Team Adam: Andrew De Muro vs. Billy Gilman singing Man in the Mirror by  Michael Jackson-- Alicia said Billy your voice started out in a crystal space, thank you both for bringing the energy that not everything is as bad as it seems. Miley said you guys matched so nicely and battled so well. Adam said Billy you do your homework and refine your craft. Andrew you've grown so much. Adam said I am drawn into Billy and what he's doing.
Adam chose Billy

Team Alicia: Lauren Diaz vs. We McDonald singing Maybe by Janis Joplin-- Adam said these women were battling for their lives. We you're a beast and Lauren you didn't back down either, you're both super special. Blake said We you're incredible, but Lauren did some cool stuff too. This one is gonna hurt Alicia I think. Alicia said she had a real moment of pride.
Alicia chose We............Miley and Adam both went for the steal for Lauren and she chose Miley

Watch out for Christian Cuevas, Jason Warrior, Ali Caldwell, Billy Gilman, We McDonald

The Voice: Season 11-- The Blinds Begin

Jason Warrior sang Living for the City by Stevie Wonder-- Jason has a big voice and earns turns from Alicia and Adam. Alicia reminds Jason of his mom, he had a tough upbringing and she was his rock. I guess that appealed to him because, Jason chose Alicia.

Dave Moisan sang Sex and Candy my Marcy Playground-- Dave used to be a swimmer and swan against Michael Phelps! I actually really like Dave's authentic rock sound, he has that smooth, yet edgy voice. He receives a four chair turn, well deserved. He says he met Maroon 5 years ago. Miley hugs him, Adam promises he won't try to make Dave like him. None of that works.
Dave chooses Alicia

Courtnie Ramirez sang Mama Knows Best by Jessie J-- Courtnie for me is someone who has tons of potential. I love her voice, I just think she needs to work on her dynamics. Miley and Alicia turn, Adam considered it, but said he wanted to see Miley and Alicia duke it out. Miley loves her swag, and Alicia says her voice was so alive. At the end though, it was Miley selling youth that helped seal the deal.
Courtnie chose Miley

Sundance Head sang I've Been Loving You Too Long by Otis Redding-- I knew I remembered Sundance from somewhere, he was on American Idol! I genuinely liked this guy and I still like him now. He's straight up country and Adam and Blake turn for him. Sundance admits he was really nervous and promises he'll do better next time. Alicia asks where he learned to sing and he says "you" and sings a line from her song.
Sundance chose Blake

Maggie Renfrew-- No Turns but super humble, hope she comes back.

Ali Caldwell sang Dangerous Woman by Ariana Grande-- Everyone turns for her, and truthfully, I didn't love her as much as the coaches did. Ali surprisingly chose Miley, which I completely don't get. I would have chosen Alicia or Adam if I were her. Ali chose Miley

Riley Elmore sang The Way You Look Tonight by Michael Buble-- Adam and Blake turned almost immediately. I love Riley, he is super talented, and his voice is special. What he does is outside of his time. Adam said he loves that song and sings it like once a week. Blake said if I could come back as anyone, it would be Dean Martin. Blake said you have an open lane ahead of you, and the only problem is you're about to pick the wrong coach. Adam then goes on stage and duets with Riley.
Riley chose Adam

Dana Harper sang Jealous by Nick Jonas-- Dana has a very deep and full voice. Alicia turned, then Blake, then Adam. Alicia said she hears Dana's life and relates to her. Adam feels like Dana has everything. Blake said she needs to explore that lower area of her voice, he wants to guide her.
Dana chose Blake

Gabe Broussard sang Lonely Night in Georgia by Mark Broussard-- Wow, I loved the song voice, his vocal style, and the rasp in his voice. Blake turned early, and Miley turned at the end. It's crazy that he is 15 years old. Miley said you don't sound 15, I want you on my team. Blake said you sounded like such a friggin stud. I've been waiting for you. I want you on my team bad.
Gabe chose Blake

Chris Cron sang Never Tear Us Apart by -- Wow, I am shocked that no one turned. Alicia thought his voice was beautiful, she wanted to feel it more. Adam thinks he has a great voice, and he should come back.

Christian Cuevas sang How Am I Supposed to Live Without You by Michael Bolton-- I loved the emotion in Christian's voice. Miley predicted what Blake would say.... Blake said I am fan regardless of if you choose me. Alicia wants to know where he got the emotion and she said she really felt him. Adam said your emotional sincere way you were singing made me excited. I want someone who can convey what's in their heart and you blew my mind.
Christian chose Alicia