Seventy million votes came in last night. You know I think Jennifer Lopez can wear just about anything but that thing she was wearing tonight did not fit right. Phillip Phillips returns to the Idol stage tonight. Randy Jackson is going to introduce us to Kodaline from Ireland.
At the postshow dinner, the contestants talk about when is it okay to be sharp and when it isn’t because they are confused. I can understand that they are getting mixed messages.
Emily, Sam, Jessica and Ben are in the first group to hear the results. Emily is in the bottom 3. The rest are safe.
Phillip Phillips sang “Raging Fire” and as he did I was thinking something is really wrong with the Idol sound. His intonation (smile Harry) was all over the place.
Majesty, Dexter, Jena, and Alex are up next. Dexter, Majesty and Alex are safe. Jena is in the bottom 3. That just is not right. None of them deserved that spot.
Kodaline played next. They have an interesting sound.
Last to learn their fate are Malaya, MK, CJ, and Caleb. Caleb is safe (OF COURSE HE IS). CJ is also safe. MK and Malaya were in the bottom three last week. One is safe and the other is in the bottom three again. Malaya is safe and MK is not.
The person leaving us tonight is: EMILY PIRIZ
MK, you need to really bring it next week. We want you to succeed. And (no surprise) the save is not used.
Tonight’s theme was “home.” The contestants were to do a song that defines that and what it means to them. Does it mean their town, their family members, or something else? What does “home” represent to them?
Was I the only person who was hoping the ladies would grab Ryan Seacrest and put him in the mosh pit with them?
Jena Irene
Song: “Suddenly I See” by KT Tunstall: Symbolizes her family and how she was raised.
My thoughts: I liked it. I really like the uniqueness of her voice. I also like that she makes it a little different so it does not sound like the original.
The judges: Keith: Likes her stage presence, that she was coming to life. He was not mad about that specific song for her, but liked the way she started to move around. Jennifer said she is on the precipice of really blossoming on the stage. She loves how she can make the song her own. It is the mark of an artist. Harry said he liked the switch in the melody. He wanted to see more energy from her especially at her age.
Alex Preston
Song: “I Don’t Wanna Be” by Gavin DeGraw
My thoughts: I adore his grandmother. I’m such a fan of Alex. He had a few little breath issues. And it was a bit pitchy for him. But I still loved it because he tried to change the song for himself.
The judges: Jennifer said he looks like he belongs on stage. It wasn’t his best vocal performance. The arrangement did not quite fit the song. It overtook his vocal and performance. She advised him to be careful with that balance. Harry said he is so used to hearing him at an intimate context (yet last week he didn’t like the intimate performance). It sounded similarly to what Jen said. He didn’t think it was a home run but admires him for trying to do something different this time. Keith thought the word instability came to mind for the performance. The song was around him instead of him being “in” the song. Another giveaway is the loss of breath at the end of phrasing.
Jessica Meuse
Song:“White Flag” by Dido
My thoughts: If this song has been in her set for years, it should have sounded better. I prefer when she sings from a dark place. This was not a good song choice for her.
The judges: Harry said she normally is so in tune. She was so off here. She really wasn’t present in the performance. Harry gets booed. Keith loves her musicality. With pitch and that (what Harry was saying), he does not always agree. Jennifer said she is with both of them. She feels like she is comfortable but it is not coming off that way to the audience. It was so sharp through the whole thing. But if she would have been singing with so much more conviction, it wouldn’t have mattered.
Dexter Roberts
Song: “Lucky Man” by Montgomery Gentry
My thoughts: It was nice. I’m sorry that I’m not a big country music fan. I like him and the puppies are adorable.
The judges: Keith said it was the perfect song. He took liberties with the phrasing. He showed his vulnerable side. Jennifer said she feels like they are being a little hard on everybody tonight. She liked that he surprised her. Harry wants to be completely honest. It was unquestionably the best performance of the night (so far). It was a great performance.
Emily Piriz
Song:“Let’s Get Loud” by Jennifer Lopez
My thoughts: I have mixed emotions about the Marine boyfriend video. On one hand, they could just be celebrating and being grateful for his service. On the other hand, people feel obligated to vote for her just because of that and sometimes it pays off and sometimes people hate being manipulated and refuse to vote because of that. As far as her performance, the band guy looked uncomfortable when she was singing and dancing next to him. It was in tune but it did not have enough oomph to get me up and want to dance or sing along with her which is the purpose of the song.
The judges: Jennifer said she did a really good job. She loved it but she is biased. Harry said he thought it took a lot of courage but she has to match the intensity of the locomotive train. She has to drive the train and the production was too big for her tonight. Harry gets booed again. Keith loved it. Harry says back to Keith that he wants her to improve. Keith said to be more confident.
Caleb Johnson
Song: “Working Man” by Rush
My thoughts: My favorite so far tonight. He could honestly go on tour right now.
The judges: Harry: He is the most consistent performer on the show. Always consistent, but he knows how he feels before he goes on to sing. What can he bring to rock and roll to make it modern? How can he not be predictable? Keith said he is one of the best singers he has heard in a long, long time. It was a bold thing. Keith talks about rock and roll and the need for a band. His challenge to Caleb was how does he get that thing going on without the band around him. Jennifer said it is what she has been waiting for all night. Great job tonight.
MK Nobilette
Song:“Drops of Jupiter” by Train
My thoughts: Once again, they put her name up as MK Nobillette. She looks terrified. I don’t know if that is what caused her to lose breath control and be off key. The message that came across to me was she feels defeated and feels like what is the point (because she was in the bottom 3 last week).
The judges: Keith said she needs to connect with how she looks with how she sings. If she isn’t going to not use the guitar, throw it behind her and grab the microphone. Jennifer said she needs to keep pushing herself. She will get there. It was a sweet performance. Harry gets the feeling that she does not want to be there. He advises her to work on the things that are hard, that make her uncomfortable and she will improve.
CJ Harris
Song: “Waiting on the World To Change” by John Mayer
My thoughts: He is still sharp over the note. I’m starting to think it might be a bad habit that is just hard to change. But I loved the emotion and connection he had with the song that we could feel as well.
The judges: Jennifer said he looks great tonight. She loved the performance of that song. Harry said he sang consistently sharp, but it was alright because he had conviction. Keith said all that is missing now is to make the song more of his own and not just do a straight cover. Where is his artistic take on it?
Sam Woolf
Song: “Just One” by Blind Pilot
My thoughts: It was a sweet performance. I think putting him in a more intimate context was better than what he did last week where he was lost on stage. But I worry about this. Will he be able to play in a big venue or is this more coffeehouse?
The judges: Harry: Emotional dynamics–there has to be a change–there is just one beat with him emotionally. He needs to try something else. Keith: He understands what Harry is saying. The tone of his voice is like “butta.” If he made an album of original songs, he would buy that record. Jennifer said he has to push outside his comfort zone.
Malaya Watson
Song: “Take Me to the King” by Tamela Mann
My thoughts: It was a better song and performance from last week. More mature. There was a lot of heart in that. But there were still moments that were really rough.
The judges: Keith stood up. Keith said it was a beautiful song baby. (First baby tonight). Encompassed vulnerability and range. Great job. Jennifer had goosies. She was all there for the story. And she had tears in her eyes because she is so proud of her. Harry said this felt very focused and it was risky. There were a few little problems but the message was there.
Ben Briley
Song: “Turning Home” by David Nail
My thoughts: I have no opinion about this.
The judges: Jennifer said the feeling was there. Harry did not connect with it and he felt it was shouted. Harry has a record number of boos in one evening. Keith lost the story and emotion from him. He wants him to worry less about the technicality.
Majesty Rose York
Song: “Fix You” by Coldplay
My thoughts: The emotion was there, but the song was off key in parts it needed to be in key. I liked it in the beginning but when she tried to go big, that is when her voice failed her. She reminds me more of a Tracy Chapman type of singer.
The judges: Harry enjoyed the beginning. Jennifer said she tried to do something but it didn’t work. Keith said they would see her next week.
So in summary, tonight’s Idol was VERY disappointing. The only person who nailed it tonight was Caleb. MK is in serious trouble. She has a lovely voice but her lack of confidence in herself will ultimately be her downfall. Jessica might be in trouble as well. Picking a song is so crucial. And having a theme and having to pick a song that reminds you of home but may not be a good song for your voice all have to be considered.
It was not too much of a surprise to me that Malaya Watson was in the bottom three for the evening, but I was SHOCKED that MK Nobilette was. Malaya was rattled that she was there. I remember during the top 13 picks that she kept saying to her fellow contestants that because they were in the “top 10” they were going on tour, they were going on tour. Someone needs to clarify for her that the people going on tour are the top 10 after the public votes, and the top 10 from 13 is left. Those are the people going on tour. Rounding out the bottom three was Kristen O’Connor. I didn’t dislike her performance, although I had heard better, but it made sense. Although Dexter and CJ were in my bottom 2 (along with Malaya for the number 3 spot), Dexter and CJ are immensely likable. Part of winning American Idol is to connect with the audience. The audience is tremendously forgiving if their favorites have off nights where their vocals are not spot on.
The “singing for your life” thing should be trashed. We all know the judges have their favorites and we all know that they are not going to use the save this early in the competition. It is just cruel. The judges can make their decision about who should get to stay should American people vote one of their favorites off, but I just cannot watch someone have to sing a song when their hearts are in their throats. You know what else needs to be trashed? The group number.
I failed to mention in my Top 13 Performs blog that American Idol needs to adjust the performance show so that we can actually hear what Randy Jackson has to say about the contestants. You could not hear it at all over all the applause in the audience and my closed captioning couldn’t even get it. That should tell you something.
Candice Glover was on fire and I adored her new song. Jason Bugg was interesting. I had never heard his music before.
We say goodbye to Kristen, but she should be tremendously proud of how far she came in the competition.
Tonight’s theme is “This is me.” The contestants have to choose one song that defines them as an artist and as a person. The sequence with the contestants on how the voting works this season was cute. There is a new voting platform on Google.
Dexter Roberts
5 in 20: Scared of spiders, fell off a horse, did something with a butter knife (?), first kiss was on a slide, broke his finger during football.
Song: “Aw Naw” by Chris Young
My thoughts: That was rough for me. It was out of tune (sharp). He looked great though.
The judges: Keith said he was a likable guy. He thought it was an excellent cover version of the song but now Dexter needs to figure out how to make it a Dexter Roberts performance. Jennifer said something similar. Harry wonders if the ear monitors are causing him to sing out of tune. There was a pitch issue. Jennifer added that it was not the sweet spot for his voice so much.
Malaya Watson
5 in 20: Afraid of dogs, plays a lot of instruments, wears glasses because she can’t see and she loves everybody.
Song: “Runaway Baby” by Bruno Mars
My thoughts: Nice upbeat song. I don’t think it was the right song for her. It did not showcase her voice well. I felt like I was watching a high school talent show. I really like her though. I hope she will do better next week.
The judges: Jennifer loves her energy. Her performance was A-plus. The song had soul. It, however, was not her best vocal performance but says she is a contender. Harry agrees. He said intonation is huge. He mentions that she appeared nervous. Keith said what can you do from here forward? It’s about growing and learning. Her energy is contagious. She needs to figure out how to get on top of the song and not floating around it.
Kristen O’Connor
5 in 20: Her best friends are quadruplets. She loves swing dancing. She is bad at all sports.
Song: “Beautiful Disaster” by Kelly Clarkson
My thoughts: I like Kristen but it was off key. I don’t think this was the right song for her. Everyone is having pitch issues tonight. I felt like she was just singing. I didn’t feel any emotional connection from her to the song she was singing (and because of that, I did not feel anything).
The judges: Harry thought that she was a really strong pop singer but she is singing out of tune. Keith thought it was a good song choice for her. She was able to show the range and show control and dynamics in a short space of time. Jennifer said to stop thinking (after seeing 3 contestants now). Start thinking about what you know versus what they are afraid of what may happen.
Ben Briley
5 in 20: He can name every capital. He loves Tennessee football. His favorite animal is a kangaroo. He is good at throwing rocks at hitting poles. He wants to sky dive. He has a super power. And then states none of this is true.
Song: “Folsom Prison Blues” by Johnny Cash
My thoughts: Finally a better performance this evening. Who knew I would like it too (because I don’t like country music). So that is how much I did love it.
The judges: Keith said it was particularly brisk. He told him not to sacrifice his artistry in the midst of entertaining. Jennifer liked the fast tempo. She said it was a good example of taking a song that represents you and changing it up to make it yours. She loved it. Harry said he did not think it was kitsch (as Keith mentioned) at all. He liked the up-tempo. He felt it was the best performance of the night so far.
CJ Harris
5 in 20: Doesn’t like climbing high things, hates icy roads in the wintertime, does not like to deer hunt that much, hates people with bad attitudes and no personality, and is very religious.
Song: “Radio” by Darius Rucker
My thoughts: I love CJ but this was the worst performance heard tonight so far. He was always above the note.
The judges: Jennifer thought it was a lot of fun. She acknowledges there were pitch issues going on for everyone. Harry said CJ has this “cry” in his voice that he loves to hear but this song may have been among other ones during a concert. It was just an okay song choice. Harry is then booed. Keith disagrees. He thinks it was a good song choice and it was good to hear a different side to him tonight.
MK Nobilette
(Okay, the web site says it is Nobilette but the name was Nobillette on the TV screen–look!)
5 in 20: She is a mediocre snowboarder, played soccer her whole life, loves single ladies (and adds “the song”), wishes she was a dancer, loves dogs.
Song: “Satisfaction” by Allen Stone
My thoughts: It was average. She looked scared. The stage kind of swallowed her up. A few times it seemed out of tune (not on purpose), especially in the end part when she is singing “Satisfaction” a lot. I do like her new look and style. She looks wonderful in pink.
The judges: Harry loves watching her grow. He gives her some pointers about her performance. Keith said he loved the way she looks. He said there were patches of good and patches of “deer in the headlights” but it will come. Jennifer loved how she delivered it. She was awesome.
Majesty Rose York
5 in 20: Born in a leap year. She is left-handed, does the longboard, does ballet and likes to make her hair bigger.
Song: “Tightrope” by Janelle Monae
My thoughts: The beginning verses were rough. Too bad. I am a really big fan of hers and I would put her in the middle of the pack.
The judges: Keith said it was a killer song choice. Janelle is a great place for her to tap into. She is just becoming more confident in what she is doing. Jennifer loves her individuality. She said the song was perfect for her and that she is blessed. Harry said his favorite thing about her is the mystery and how it will unravel. He thought it was terrific.
Jena Irene
5 in 20: Her hair is actually brown. She is best friends with her brother. Her favorite movie is “The Wizard of Oz.” Her eyes are sometimes green and sometimes blue. She is really short.
Song: “The Scientist” by Coldplay
My thoughts: It started off rough but she found her groove in there. I liked it. This is my second favorite female performance of the night.
The judges: Jennifer said she has such a unique voice, filled with dynamics and nuances–a powerhouse singer, too. It was a tough song but she pulled it off. Jennifer loved it. Harry said he felt the emotion of the song and that she makes interesting choices on a pre-existing melody, that her melodic choices drive the lyrics. Keith said it was pitchy in the beginning but once she leaned into it, she owned the song.
Alex Preston
5 in 20: He loves extreme sports. He likes to write poetry. He is a hopeless romantic, loves coffee, and has never been…..(cut off).
Song: “A Beautiful Mess” by Jason Mraz
My thoughts: I had goosebumps. I loved it. My favorite performance of the night so far. He is so unique. A couple of notes were off, but not horribly. It was such an intimate performance.
The judges: Harry said he was brave to do that but cautioned him to try to sing it in tune. He felt it was too inward and that he did not feel what Alex was singing about. Harry is booed again. Keith said he had the complete opposite reaction. It pulled him in. He wanted to know what Alex “had never been” but Alex does not even remember. Jennifer agrees with Keith that she got caught up in the emotion and mood of it. Jennifer did a nice job. She felt it was a nice change from what everyone else is doing.
Jessica Meuse
5 in 20: She uses a lot of hand sanitizer and is obsessed by the supernatural. She likes ponies and has way too many animals. She failed band in school.
Song: “The Crow and the Butterfly” by Shinedown
My thoughts: I LOVED IT! I had goosebumps. Rocker girl after my own heart. It was my favorite female performance of the night.
The judges: Keith said it was a bold but cool song choice. It reminded him of the first time seeing her from the audition cities. There was a dark, haunting quality to it and that is what she has as an artist. The edgy rasp is appealing. Jennifer said that the sound and power of her voice gave her goosies everywhere. It was her favorite vocal performance of the night so far. It was perfect. She would love to see Jessica’s body relax a little bit. It was dope. Harry was distracted by the graphic butterflies. He thought it was strong and that it was cool to hear her sing slightly differently. She did a nice, nice job.
Emily Piriz
5 in 20: Went to chef camp when she was younger. Her eyes change colors depending on environment and clothing. She does a cool whistle.
Song: “Glitter In The Air” by P!nk
My thoughts: She was wearing way too much makeup (not her fault). I did not care for it. I felt like she was singing it and never made an emotional connection to the song. She was hitting the high note (which always brings out the applause) but her lower register was rough. I really don’t know what the judges heard because they had a very different take on it.
The judges: Jennifer said it is a tough song to take on but she did it beautifully. She thought it had a lot of emotion and her pitch was beautiful. Harry said it was great and she sang the melody well and conveyed the emotions well. Keith said it was one of his favorites of the night. He wants more yin-yang though. There was too much yin.
Sam Woolf
5 in 20: He is afraid of spiders. He wears size 10 shoes. He stepped on a sea urchin once and broke his ankle once falling down the stairs. His middle name is Joseph.
Song:“Unwell” by Matchbox Twenty
My thoughts: It was okay. It seemed to drag a bit. I almost had the feeling that he wanted to sing it faster but the music was lagging behind. He’s in the middle of the pack for me, too.
The judges: Harry said he wished his vocal mirrored the lyrics (that it wasn’t so clean and tight). It was nice but not great. Kevin said the tempo was slow. Sam had a great way of holding the center of his performance. Jennifer said he was a quiet storm. He needs to come alive. Sometimes he is a deer in the headlights.
Caleb Johnson
5 in 20: Unfortunately they caught him brushing his teeth. Did he say he once kissed a cow? The second one was something about a pancake? His favorite band is Rush. He was on the cross country team in high school. He loves biscuits and gravy.
Song: “Pressure and Time” by Rival Sons
My thoughts: GOOSEBUMPS!! (And hey look Taylor Hicks is in the house). Is Idol ready for a rock star winner? My favorite performance of tonight. This looked truly professional. I felt like I was attending his concert.
The judges: Keith and Jennifer were on their feet. Keith said he has some serious pipes and it was a cool song. He said he needs to figure out now how to put on that twist–retro with a twist. Jennifer said he was so ready for the rock-star life. Harry said it was great to hear rock-and-roll on Idol. If something happened to Rival Sons like what happened with Journey, he could be it.
After watching both groups perform, I believe the stronger singers this year are the boys. Ryan Seacrest wasted no time Thursday evening announcing the top 10 performers that were going through to next week’s show. In no particular order, the following names were called:
Malaya Watson is first through. She has SUCH a personality.
Ben Briley (ditch the plaid dude).
Emily Piriz. This surprised me. She has a good voice, but I didn’t like her song choice.
Alex Preston. YAY!!!!
Jessica Meuse
Dexter Roberts
Caleb Johnson (YAY). Note to Caleb: Do NOT maul Ryan Seacrest.
Majesty Rose (YAY!)
And they finally took a commercial break.
MK Nobilette
Sam Woolf (awesome!)
Wild Card
Jennifer Lopez explains. Of the 10 left, they are going to choose 5 to sing tonight so that from that they can pick 3 of them.
CJ Harris. It was good. Singing for his life? Not really. Harry said both the band and CJ screwed that up. It was not a strong start; it was average. He did not feel any of the magic. Jennifer said the specialness of his voice and soul still came through for her. Keith said he has to stay emotionally connected to the song the entire way through; he was drifting in and out emotionally.
Jena Irene. Playing keyboard. I hope she gets picked. I had goosebumps. Keith said it was a really good use of that moment.
Spencer Lloyd. I think he should have chosen the “Say Something” song (as they pointed out to him just the night before). Jennifer thinks he picked the wrong song to sing again.
Bria Anai. She was awesome. I know she will get a spot. Harry said she sang for her life but it was all over the place. She was clearly not expecting that comment.
Kristen O’Connor. She was ahead of the band. It was not her best.
The talent is abundant; the spaces few. Only 15 girls and 15 boys will go through to the live rounds next week. They had one last chance to impress the judges with their own instruments or the full band or both.
Some standout performances for me were Jillian Jensen (FINALLY they show her!). Her original song was beautiful. Malaya Watson was out of this world. I cried listening to Sam Woolf’s original song that he wrote about his mother leaving. I had goosebumps. My opinion about him has radically shifted. I think it was a mistake letting Keri Ann Roche and Jesse Roach. They were unique.
Here is the list of those going through based upon what was seen this evening:
Guys
1. Spencer Lloyd
2. George Lovett
3. Sam Woolf
4. Maurice Townsend
5. Dexter Roberts
6. Emmanuel Zidor
7. Jordan Brisbane
8. Malcolm Allen
9. Alex Preston
Girls
1. Emily Piriz
2. Jillian Jensen
3. Malaya Watson
4. Bria Anai Johnson
5. Jessica Meuse
6. MK Nobilette
7. Kristin O’Connor
8. Andrina Brogden
Going Home
Madelyn Patterson, Michael Simeon, Lebryant Crew, Sabrina Lentini, Keri Lynn Roche, Jesse Roach, Casey McQuillen, Nica Nashae, Leah Guerrero. A few others whose face/name I could not place and the names were not said.
Not Sure
They showed solos by Shelby Ann Marie Miller and Connor Zwetsch who performed original songs that were less than stellar. They did not go before the judges so I am assuming they went home.
Cliffhanger
They leave us on a cliffhanger. They ask Casey Thrasher and CJ Harris to come up together and sing more before they can make a decision. The previews say that only one of them will be going through. These guys are both very talented. I would very much for them both to go through.
According to the press release, America will get to vote on who the final contestant will be to round out the top 30 on Thursday night, February 13, 2014.
The contestants have no idea that there is a twist this year in the audition process. Some people will have to sing for their life in an airplane hangar. The judges were divided on the talent of these people. I’ll give you the short version (my opinions):
Johnny Newcomb: I do not think it was good enough. Connor Swetsch: I liked it; first time hearing her. Ali Jane Henderson: I loved it; first time hearing her. Caitlin Johnson: I did not like it. It was bad compared to the first three. I was not a fan of hers in the San Francisco audition. Adam Roth (the sound healer): I still do not like his voice. Tristen Langley (Nikki McKibbin’s kid): Not bad. Morgan Deplitch: No for me; off pitch; last time in Austin she was too breathy. Stephanie Petronelli (the cheerleader): I still do not like her voice. Rich Lafleur: Goofed up. Eric Wood: Liked it; liked him in Austin, too. Alyssa Siebken: Not good enough. Neco Starr: Liked him. Khristian D’avis (aka fake-accent girl): No from me.
They were broken up into two groups. One group would be returned to the airport; one group would be going to the next round. There were 20 people in group 2 who were taken to the hotel. Among those going home was Caleb Hartsfield who is from my sister’s city of Asheville. Too bad; I liked his voice.
There are 180 people going into Day 2.
Day 2
On this day, they put them in lines of 10 and have them sing a capella or with an instrument. In the first line, George Lovett, Sandie Lee, Brandy Neely, John Fox, and Majesty Rose York were through to the group round. Going home were Jack Janowicz from the Omaha auditions, McKenna Dennis from the Austin auditions, Viviana Villalon also from the Austin auditions, and very surprisingly Samantha Calmes who was one of my favorites.
Out of the next group all we know is that Spencer Lloyd would be staying.
In the next group, I thought Austin Wolfe had a good voice. I loved Bria Anai‘s song. I did not like Selena Moreno‘s song, not just because she goofed up but she is not on the same level as some of these other singers. Going through to group rounds were Austin Wolfe, Jessica Meuse, Bria Anai Johnson, Shanon Wilson. Selena Moreno and Lauren Ogburn from the Atlanta auditions would be returning home.
In the next group, I like Sam Woolf but he may not be ready for Idol (at least this year’s talent) Keri Lynn Roche‘s song I loved. I was a “no” for Ayla Stackhouse. I adore CJ Harris. John Martin Davis and Ayla Stackhouse as well as another male who was standing in the forward line in a blue plaid shirt who I cannot identify were going home. Keri, CJ, Sam, and a few others I cannot identify by face are through to the next round.
Alex Preston, Sydney Arterbridge, Jesse Roach (Cypress, Texas), Brian Watt, Jade Lathan, Lindsay Bell, David Luning and a few others are in the next group. I loved Alex. Sydney’s vibrato bothers me. I liked Jesse. Brian has a nice voice but when I listen to him compared with the others, it is just not as good as some. Alex, Jesse and a few unidentified individuals have made it through to the next round. Brian, Jade, Sydney, David and Lindsay are going home.
Madelyn Patterson is in her own segment for #IdolHollywood or #IdolHome. I felt it would be #IdolHome as I did not enjoy it. Sixty percent felt she would remain in Hollywood and 40% said she would be going home, but she is through to the next round.
In the next group, they showcased Kenzie Hall and Quaid Edward. I don’t think Quaid is ready but he will get there at some point. Kenzie has such an interesting sound and niche in the competition. Kenzie is through and Quaid is sent home.
Then there are 10 people who make it through (but they were in a bunch of different groups). Ben Briley (I did not like this version of “Stars”.) Briston Maroney (Royals? This is a “no” on the song choice for me but the sound of his voice is unique). Dexter Roberts (The one I liked the best out of these three men). Rachel Rollier (I like her voice). Maurice Townsend (Wonderful). Casey Thrasher (Very nice. He did so much better than his audition). Tiquila Wilson (Loved her). Emily Piriz (I did not like her voice today). Malcolm Allen (Goosebumps).
Munfarid Zaidi from a close-by town of Sugar Land, Texas always adds the fun factor to the show. I think Idol needs at least one. I liked Ethan Thompson‘s performance. Austin Percario was okay. Love the rocker Caleb Johsnon. I think Stephanie Hanvey‘s performance to too affected. I loved Kristen O’Connor‘s solo. I also loved Emmanuel Zidor‘s solo as well as Briana Oakley and Jesse Cline. Keith London made an odd choice in song. I loved his voice but I agree with the judges. Allie Odom, Symphony Howlett, Olivia Diamond, Keith London, and Donald Reed are through to the next round as well as Munfarid, Ethan, Austin, Caleb, Stephanie, Kristen, Briana, and Jesse.
Immediately, Casey Thrasher, Ben Briley and Dexter Roberts teamed up to form the Backstreet Cowboys. Austin contestants Savion Wright, Ryan Clark, John Fox and Madelyn Patterson teamed up. Matthew Hamel, Jessica Meuse, and Clark King teamed up. Clark was losing his voice. Matthew and Jessica found other groups. Malaya Watson, Christine Collins, Olivia Diamond and Queen Bulls teamed up. Clark King decides to drop out.
Veterans from Season 12 of American Idol, David Oliver Lewis, Sarina Joi Crowe, and Tony Foster Jr. teamed up to form “Three More Days“. They choose “Too Close” by Alex Clare. It was lovely! Well done! But not everyone can go through and this time it was Tony’s turn to go home. He was genuine when he expressed a desire to know why so he could learn from the experience. I thought that was pretty wonderful instead of pouting and demanding to know why. Harry tells him that he looked at his feet too much. Tony has a wonderful attitude. I hope he comes back next year.
Dexter Roberts, Ben Briley and Casey Thrasher, the “Backstreet Cowboys” sing “I Want It That Way” by the Backstreet Boys. It was the first country boy band and it worked. I loved it. All of them are going through to the next round.
Neco Starr, George Lovett and another individual did “Treasure” by Bruno Mars. I enjoyed this. Paula Hunt, Andrina Brogden and another unknown individual teamed up. MK Nobilette and Briana Oakley were part of another group and they made it through to the next round. Brandy Neely, Emily, and Kenzie Hall were all through. Spencer Lloyd, Megan Miller and Alyssa Siebken teamed up. Megan forgot the lyrics. The group fell apart. Alyssa was sent home but she felt that she was set up by the others.
Other people leaving after group rounds were Madisen Walker, Keith London, Austin Percario, Stephanie Petronelli, and Adam Roth. Tiquila Wilson respectfully quits; she does not feel this is the correct path for her.
The next group consisted of CJ Harris, Caleb Johnson, Tyler Ahlgren and Matthew Hamel also sang “Too Close” by Alex Clare. Caleb reminds me of the rocker Meatloaf. CJ and Caleb are through; Tyler and Matthew are sent home.
Members of the group “Collision” were all through. The group “Clarity” was made up of Jena Ascuitto, Sikenya Thompson, Munfarid and Allie Odom. Sikenya barely had a voice. She had lost her confidence. The judges encouraged her to push through and she did. Unfortunately Allie was the weaker link and someone has to go.
Savion Wright, Ryan Clark, John Fox and Madelyn Patterson sang “Royals.” I thought it was fine. But John J. Fox of Magnolia, Texas (the town right next to me) is going home.
The next group was Nica Nashae, Stephanie Hanvey, Cara Watson and Jessica Meuse. Stephanie’s mom was overbearing, trying to run the show. I really dislike stage moms like this. The psychology behinds it suggests that they are pushing their children to achieve recognition for themselves. They sing Beyonce’s “All The Single Ladies.” Stephanie was terrible and she goes home, not without some final words from mom.
Terrica Curry, Carmen Delgina and Emmanuel Zidor teamed up to become “Love’s Angels.” Only Emmanuel makes it through.
Loud & Fierce members Malaya Watson, Queen Bulls, Christina Collins, and Olivia Diamond did not do very well. Out of all of them I liked Malaya’s performance the best. They, however, are all through.
At this point 77 contestants remain. Solo rounds start on Wednesday, February 12.
So far, we’ve seen a lot of great talent out there. And the judges are a riot together. The Austin auditions continue with Jesse Roach, a 27-year-old musician from Cypress Texas (next to my town). I really like her voice even though I don’t like country music. It is quite unique. Jennifer loves her. Keith said she has soul. Harry was not distracted by her rasp (like other people’s rasps). Three yeses.
Steven Curd, age 18, a clerk from San Antonio. He, too, has a unique voice. Anna Melvin, age 22, a waitress from Memphis, tried to sing Wrecking Ball. I disliked it very much. Ryan Clark, a 22-year-old bartender from San Marcos, was okay. Not sure if his voice was unique but that is a hard note combination to get without being sharp or flat. Keith loved them all. All three are through.
Jamiah Malik, age 15, a student from San Antonio, chose to sing an original. His friend, Quiandra Boston-Pearsall, a 17-year-old student from Adkins, Texas, also came to try out. They are interesting but are they good enough? I am not 100% convinced. Quiandra is through to the next round. I love Jamiah’s attitude about not being able to go through this year. Attitude in this life is everything.
Megan Miller, age 23, a media consultant, from Ethel, LA, chose to sing “Last Name” by Carrie Underwood. She showed some voice control, but some of sounded like yelling to me. My eardrums kind of retracted to protect themselves. I am not sure about her honestly. Harry said he is worried about when her voice is going to blow out while Jennifer liked the same qualities. Keith is worried about the audience listening to it. (Thank you Keith). Nevertheless, she received three yeses.
Grace Anne Field, age 27, a restaurant pianist from Austin, Texas. Absolutely NOT!!!! Harry is nice saying American Idol may not be the right type of competition for her. It was frenetic and all over the place. Jennifer said the vibrato was a little bit out of control. Keith just said, “It’s not there yet”.
Another pairing. Austin Alvarez, a 26-year-old make-up artist from Austin and Eric Wood, age 28, an old-field worker from Higginson, AR. I preferred Eric in this combination. Both are through.
Spencer Lloyd is a 19-year-old worship leader from Bryant, AR. Hello cutie pie! And you have a voice that matches. I had goosebumps although he did mess up on the last notes. Harry thinks he is an okay singer. Keith said entertaining is about engaging people and he totally did that. Three yeses although Harry struggled with his yes.
Marlon Lindsey waited 8-9 years now to try out. He was in the Army for a while but now is a 27-year-old student from Beaumont, Texas. I was not expecting the voice that came out (in a good way) singing Sam Cooke’s, “A Change is Gonna Come.” He is through to Hollywood.
Get suspender-wearer off the stage. Harry proves that Harry is funnier than this 28-year-old “actor”. Harry says, “Is this America’s Got Talent?” to the laughs of the production staff. Rick Rowling sucks as an actor as well as a singer as well as a comedian if that was his angle. Harry wants him gone; me, too!
The next contestant, T.K. Hash, does an awesome Obama imitation, a service manager hailing from Charlotte, North Carolina. He sings Fallout Boy’s “I Know What Your Songs Did In The Dark).” OH NO!!! That is a horrible song to audition with without music to accompany you. I think he would have done better on a different song. Keith loved it. Jennifer said there was something there that made them all perk up. Harry said he wouldn’t say he was the greatest singer he has ever heard, but he is soooo like-able it is a yes for him too.
McKenna Dennis is up for the hashtag game. Seventy-five percent voted #IdolHollywood versus 25% #IdolHome. And she indeed made it through.
Nikki McKibbin, who placed 3rd on the first season on Idol, had a son. Tristen Langley, age 15, is a student from Kennedale, Texas. He is really good. I like his smile. Harry thinks if the story of second-generation idol wasn’t there, he would say no. Jennifer totally disagrees. It was not blow-you-away, but he has a really good voice. Keith gave him some vocal tips to save his voice. Jennifer said yes, Harry said no but Keith said yes. (Harry has guts!)
A collage of performers is up next. Taylor Stearns, a 21-year-old student from Round Rock, Texas (I did not think she was good enough) got a yes from the judges along with several other unidentified people, but also some no’s in the bunch too.
LJ Hernandez is a 23-year-old farmer from Goliad, Texas whose ex-fiancée said did not have the talent, the skill or the will or charisma. I agree with her. His family needs to stop “supporting” this. They are enabling him.
John Fox, a 20-year-old, Magnolia, Texas, (another town in my backyard). He is a worship leader. There are a lot of great worship leaders with really great voices in Texas! I got goosebumps. Three yeses.
San Francisco
Rachel Rolleri, a 17-year-old student from Danville, CA. Her mom loves Keith Urban. I got goosebumps with her immediately (and again I am not a big country music fan). Got a little crack in her voice. Harry thinks she has an understated confidence. Three yeses.
Athena Williford, a 20-year-old student from Stockton, CA. She was okay. Demi Wolf, a 17-year-old student from Palo Alto, CA, a former junior Olympian, was again just okay. MK Nobilette, a 20-year-old student from San Francisco, CA, was probably the most unique out of the three. All three are yeses.
Making a unique entrance was Emmanuel Zidor, a 24-year-old airline ramp agent from Miami, Florida. I liked what he did with his song after he was asked to sing something else. It was very controlled. Jennifer thought it was beautiful. He told his teacher that he wanted to be on American Idol and that he wanted to win. The teacher said, “You will never be on that show, you can’t even sing.” Harry told him he has three music teachers up here and what do you think all three music teachers are going to tell you? YES! If his teacher told him that, that teacher needs to retire.
Three more unnamed contestants make it through and then Samuel Ramsey, a 24-year-old student from Temple Hills, MD sang. Harry voted no (payback for him using the word “jazzy”?). The other two did not vote (at least on camera).
Caitlin Johnson, a 15-year-old student (what is it with all these students?) from North Plains, OR, was okay in some parts and it was strange in other parts. Harry does not think she is ready. Jennifer thinks she is talented, but not perfect. Keith loved it and says yes. Jennifer gives her one more chance and will see her in Hollywood.
The enthusiastic Ronald Reed, a 23-year-old cook has big ambitions. Can he sing? Well he keeps playing guitar. He cannot sing and his facial expressions are creeping me out. He squeals when Jennifer called him sweetie. Keith wanted his vocals to be where his personality is but it was not. Harry tried to explain the difference between subjective and objective. Ronald looks shocked! He goes out and cries like a crushed child to his family and friends. Ryan tells him to be strong. He says he is coming back every year. I have no doubt that if Ronald harnesses his outlook into a different career path he will shine just like a star and perhaps do greater things for the world.
David Luning, a 26-year-old musician from Forestville, CA, wants to sing an original and it almost looks like Jennifer is bracing herself for something awful. Surprise! Not awful! He has a very unique voice. Jennifer says she loves it before he is even done. Keith is on the fence. On one hand he is original but on the other hand he would get crushed (presumably because of the choices of songs available?). Harry said it was interesting but may be too “downer” for Idol. Jennifer said yes. But Keith and Harry? Not sure, but he got at least one of them to make it to Hollywood.
Enter the twins! Selena Moreno, a 22-year-old hostess from Sacramento, sings Janis Joplin’s “Try”. It is okay. Sierra Moreno, a 22-year-old hostess, also from Sacramento. I liked her voice better. Harry says they won’t make it as a set. For Keith he liked Selena’s voice better but Sierra’s performance better. All three say yes to Selena. Jennifer said yes to Sierra but Keith and Harry said no.
Then a montage of no.
Look who it is!!!!! Briana Oakley is back! She was from last season and got cut during Hollywood week. And I still adore her! Harry felt like she is proud to sing. Goosebumps!
An unemployed Rico Perkins from Little Rock, AR wants a golden ticket. He even sings it. Aranesa Turner, a 20-year-old student from Sacramento. Both are going to Hollywood.
Gaddy Basil Foster, a 26-year-old server from Columbia, SC should stick to working out. I bet he would make a great fitness coach. Jennifer tried hard not to laugh.
Jennifer and Keith should have a baby-counting contest. Who says the word “baby” more?
Oh please no. Adam Roth is a sound healer for a living. I believe in the power of music to heal but….does his voice help or hurt? His vibrato bothers me and would not be relaxing to me. Harry got his chakra blown. Keith is baffled because his voice was kind of schizophrenic. Jennifer wondered if he was forcing it–was it fake? Harry says no. Jennifer says yes. Keith says yes.
The Count
19 from Sacramento
14 more in Austin
33 new Hollywood contestants from today’s show
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