Idol Rewind
As the American Idol contest has continued, the experience of the more veteran performers has pushed adorable David A. out of the top spot in my personal top ten.
When David Cook unleashed his slowed down and soulful interpretation of Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean,” a star was born, even if he did borrow the slowed-down “BJ” from Chris Cornell. Yes, I can imagine buying a record from, David Cook; I might even purchase the download right after I write this love letter to the talent that is DC.
As for the other David, Archuleta, he still is demonstrating his considerable chops and charisma, but his performances have been getting worse, not better. He hit his peak three weeks ago with his beautiful interpretation of “Imagine.” Last night he selected an obscure song that was vintage “Up With People” corny, “You’re the Voice.” Even Paula scolded him for playing it safe.
Michael Johns, 29, finally nailed a song that showed that his good looks are part of a package that includes potent pipes. I didn’t understand how he skated by earlier, but his “We Will Rock You/We Are the Champions” took that song out of sports arenas and into our hearts.
Syesha Mercado gave her best performances so far with the big ballad “If I Were Your Woman.”
Carly Smithson might have picked a song that didn’t really show her versatility with “Total Eclipse of the Heart,” but her performing skills still put her in the top five.
Brooke White was dynamic at the piano with her lovely version of the Police tune “Every Breath You Take,” but I agree with the judges that it was better before the up tempo pick-up with the band. And, surprise, surprise, Kristy Lee Cook will survive another week thanks to her brilliant decision to uncork Lee Greenwood’s terrific stand-up-for-our-troops anthem, “God Bless The U.S.A.” She nailed it, and made sure that it would be downright unpatriotic to send her packing tonight.
Worst this week. Jason Castro doesn’t deserve to go, but his interpretation of a magnificent Sting song, “Fragile” was bland. I’ve talked about David. A. already and now for the bottom two. They have been hanging on, but tonight is the night that either Chikezie or Ramiele leaves. They both have talent but not as much as the other competitors. My guess is that the tiny songbird is the one who does a tearful song farewell tonight.
My Idol Top 10
1) David Cook; 2) Carly Smithson; 3) Michael Johns; 4) David Archuleta; 5) Brooke White; 6) Syesha Mercado; 7) Jason Castro; 8) Kristy Lee Cook; 9) Chikezie; 10) Ramiele Malubay.
Idol Graduates: Did you ever think Bucky Covington would have two hit country songs? Me neither, but I really loved "A Different World." Go here to check out his videos.