'American Idol' Top 10 sing songs from the year they were born

March 25, 06:57 PM

Tuesday (March 25) night's American Idol theme is Songs From The Year You [the contestants, that is, not me] Were Born. For Michael Johns and Carly Smithson, that could mean a third straight week of the Beatles, while for Presumptive American Idol Winner David Archuleta, that could mean one of the lesser singles of Hanson. Sadly, only one of those two possibilities was meant as a joke...

Singer: RAMIELE MALUBAY
Song: "Alone"
My Take: The producers have apparently tired of Ramiele's so-so brand of party karaoke, giving her the Opening Slot of Death this week and dressing her in The High Waisted Shorts of Death. Tonight's secondary theme, of course, is making viewers like me feel wicked old. I remember when this song when playing on the radio. It was in tune back then. Tonight? It's mostly flat. And sometimes sharp. And generally shouted. And delivered without an iota of movement on the stage. The conspiracy theorists will think this entire performance was part of the ongoing conspiracy to keep Kristy Lee Cook around. I just think Ramiele hasn't been very good since the first week of the Top 24.
Tinker, Evers and Simon Say Randy implies that it wasn't the right song choice and that Ramiele being under the weather isn't really an excuse. Paula, who also sounds like she's also sick, is glad that America has heard her sing, praising her bravery. Let's discuss Paula's black elbow-high gloves and bejeweled bracelets. OK. Fine. Let's not. Simon, feeling generous, doesn't think it was as bad as Randy did. He adds that since Ramiele skated last week after a bad week, this week should be OK as well. Ryan accuses Randy of being too harsh tonight.

Singer: JASON CASTRO
Song: "Fragile"
My Take: Happy Birthday, Jason. Never has my favorite Stoner Muppet appeared more frantically guided by his unseen puppeteer. His hands strum wildly across his guitar, rarely making music, but at least steering the rhythm. The lyrics are all mumbled and I seem to recall the Sting version having a melody instead of just a high nasal hum. Once again, Jason isn't singing a song that's nearly complicated enough to justify the raised brows, pursed lips and clenched eyelids. They have coaches on this show and if they could sort of teach Carmen Rasmusen how not to bleat like a goat, surely they can show Jason how not to wince and mug. Oh, but at least Jason's better with Spanish than he was with French last week.
Tinker, Evers and Simon Say Randy loves the song and loves the Spanish touch, but he's still waiting to see that breakout vocal performance. For Paula, the lack of vocal range is Jason staying true to who he is. Simon, though, demands that Jason takes this more seriously, comparing it to somebody busking outside of a subway station. We warns him that he won't win if he doesn't do something more. Ryan asks Jason if he's taking it seriously. Jason replies, "Yeah." He asks why Simon might get a different impression. Jason replies, "Uh... I dunno."

Singer: SYESHA MERCADO
Song: "If I Were Your Woman"
My Take: Yes, Syesha. We've heard your baby cry before. Last time it was creepy and interesting. Now? Tired of it. Last week's somewhat over-praised version of "Yesterday" may have given Syesha the mistaken impression that she has a diva's voice, which she doesn't. The bigger the notes are, the more she sounds like she's shouting. For the most part, though, the song has been properly arranged to keep her right on the threshold of yelling, leading to a nice, solid vocal. I think there's an upbeat side to her that works better than this, that would show off her personality.
Tinker, Evers and Simon Say Randy says this was the best he's ever heard her sing, cheering that "We've got another competitor in the competition." Paula says this is the moment that Syesha flipped it and that she's now the dark horse. This time, Simon says that the end part wasn't as good as Randy thought it was.

Singer: CHIKEZIE
Song: "If Only For One Night"
My Take: After his first audition I said that Chikezie was giving me a Skinny Velvet Teddybear vibe, so I like the idea of him doing a Luther-by-way-of-Ruben cover. Chikezie has so much more range than the three singers who came before him. He has a smooth falsetto and rich low tones and his voice can work with anything. Does it work best with ballads? Probably not. Somehow the cheesiness inherent in Chikezie's wide-open approach to entertaining seemed less evident and more genuine with his more up-tempo Beatles performances the past two weeks. Just to get a better overall sense, I turned away from my TV and I absolutely enjoyed what I heard. I couldn't say that about Ramiele or Jason.
Tinker, Evers and Simon Say Randy thinks Chikezie was too old school, not hip and cool. Paula disagrees, raving that Chikezie's a throwback. Simon is right that the performance was cheesy, but at least he credits Chikezie with singing it well. He misses Chikezie's personality.

Singer: BROOKE WHITE
Song: "Every Breath You Take"
My Take: Brooke blunders the start of her song, pauses and starts over, but most people at home are probably going, "Doesn't she look so pretty with her hair straightened and isn't her mom a babe?" and didn't even notice. It's an appropriate song choice for a singer whose fans are right on the verge of getting stalker-ish. Credit Brooke for not letting her early stumble entirely throw her off, but I'm not sure she's hearing the piano properly, because she's trying to unnecessarily yell over it. It gets worse when the band joins her and she's suddenly trying to be heard over even more music. After last week, I doubt we'll never see her move again and it's great that she's able to make a song about stalking sound so sweet.
Tinker, Evers and Simon Say Randy loves the professionalism of her restart, but he isn't so enthusiastic about the song's second half. Brooke pats him on the head and assures him that it's OK to criticize her. Paula's pleased that Brooke has her own niche. Brooke pats her on the head and reassures her that it's OK to worship her. Simon thinks it would have been cooler without the band accompaniment. He's sure she'll be around for another week, though. Brooke pats him on the head and assures him that if voted back she'll gladly perform. Is everybody repeating how brave Brooke was for starting over as way of slamming lyric-botcher Presumptive American Idol Winner David Archuleta?

Singer: MICHAEL JOHNS
Song: "We Will Rock You/ We Are the Champions"
My Take: Back in the Hollywood Round, we heard snippets of Michael doing great work on "Bohemian Rhapsody," so it's nice that he's old enough to go back to Queen again. I'm wondering on the overall sound system tonight, because Michael's also shouting, though in his case he has a massive rock arrangement behind him and he even has to sing over the light show, which is bound to be distracting. But despite the band and despite the strobe effects, Michael dominates.
Tinker, Evers and Simon Say Randy's been waiting for a performance like this. Paula agrees that this was the Michael's shining moment. She's proud of him. Simon, for the firs time, sees star potential in Michael.

Singer: CARLY SMITHSON
Song: "Total Eclipse of the Heart"
My Take: Gee, Carly. Thanks for kicking the mad knowledge that Dublin is the capital city of Ireland. What we didn't know, though, is that Carly's mom is Linda Carter-esque. Nice. How many times have we been treated to this song on Idol? It's a big voice song and Carly bellows up a storm. I really didn't need the showy, shouty, runny last note, but I think she's assertive (which may just mean that her perpetual intensity intimidates me). The problem: If I've heard 50 different versions of this song, is anything going to make me remember Carly's? I'm skeptical.
Tinker, Evers and Simon Say Randy likes it, but doesn't love it. He doesn't like the song choice, which Paula doesn't understand. Wait. Sorry. Who cares what Paula's saying. Randy didn't like Carly! I'd alert the media, but I am the media. Simon senses Carly's tension, despite the parts of the song he likes.

Singer: PRESUMPTIVE AMERICAN IDOL WINNER DAVID ARCHULETA
Song: "You're the Voice"
My Take: America, will you be David Archuleta's prom date? Have I heard this song before? It starts too low for David, but that's just prelude and by the time the song reaches what I think is its first chorus, it's right in his wheelhouse. There are rough notes along the way, especially when it gets higher, and David keeps waving his arms in circles urging the crowd to join him in a song 98 percent of them have never heard before. Since he knows they aren't going to join him, the urging is an affectation bred of self-importance. But he's good enough, in that "My closed eyes indicate sincerity" way will keep David's fans voting in droves and probably won't generate any new ones. He doesn't need to generate new fans.
Tinker, Evers and Simon Say For Randy, this proves that David has mad skills and he can sing whatever. Paula's sure that even singing the phone book, David would make America squeal. Interestingly, Simon's the only one who knows the song. But then Simon says, "It was actually reminiscent of a theme park performance." Simon doubts David chose the song himself. The crowd isn't pleased with Simon's displeasure.

Singer: KRISTY LEE COOK
Song: "God Bless the USA"
My Take: Are we supposed to believe that it's a coincidence that the recent song order went Aussie, Irish lass, half-Honduran and then Kristy singing about being American? Ew. This is just pandering. Stop staring into the camera and preaching to me about patriotism, Kristy. I'm proud to be an American too, but gracious me. Is there an untapped core of dedicated conservatives who have been waiting for a moment like this to vote for American Idol? Actually, I'll bet there are. This is probably the nail in Ramiele's coffin, in fact. Interesting, while some of the notes are way off, this is the first time we've really heard Kristy belt and it's the best indication that she may have potential. With Dolly Parton reportedly showing up to mentor next week, they can't let their one pure country singer go.
Tinker, Evers and Simon Say Randy's proud to be an American also. Paula's also proud. Simon thinks it was Kristy's best performance and he smirkingly dubs it "the most clever song choice" he's heard in years.

Singer: DAVID COOK
Song: "Billie Jean"
My Take: David Cook has always had the highest forehead in the world. Over the years he's gone through bangs and spikes and his current combover. Ryan says whose version of the song this is, but I was having a Diet Coke-induced coughing fit at the time (a friend tells me "Chris Cornell"). This is the closest David's come yet to emotional connection with the song and he gets off one spectacular rock power note toward the end that makes the entire performance worthwhile. As the song ends and the crowd roars, he bows and preens like Manny Ramirez after a deep fly ball. Seriously Manny, I know you don't want to deprive Japanese crowds the spectacle of Manny being Manny, but how about hustling on Day One? Sorry. Little tangent there. This is a performance well-deserving of the pimp slot. [Post-script: I'm a bit less impressed by David's performance after listening to the Cornell version. Now *that* is awesome.]
Tinker, Evers and Simon Say Randy might also have been coughing through Ryan's intro also, because he raves at David's originality, predicting a possible David Cook win. Paula gushes that David's brilliant, brave and other words starting with "B." Simon says it could have been insane or amazing and it was amazing.

TONIGHT'S BEST: After David Cook, my top bracket would include Michael and... um... There were five or six performances that were perfectly mediocre. That's not so bad, right?
IN DANGER: Bye, Ramiele. Not only did you have the episode's worst placement, but you gave the show's worst performance. But who to join her? I'd think Carly and Chikezie, though in terms of pure quality it should be Jason and Kristy.

Agree? Disagree?

And, as always, check out all of our Idol coverage at Zap2it's Guide to American Idol.

in American Idol , FOX

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I hope today's comments are a little more mature - more about the talent and not about tatoo's, who's from where, blah, blah, blah.

Bottom 3 should be Ramiele,Brooke, and Kristy with Ramiele going home.

Does anyone think Jason looks like a young John Travolta?

Just an opinion....

IJL | Mar 25, 2008 7:14:43 PM | #

what the fudge! is it just me or this season is starting to lose its appeal? Glad to hear Randy criticizing Carli, was ready to give him a quick slap when he commented how Carli's Heart was better than Ramielle. pimpo.

what the | Mar 25, 2008 7:31:16 PM | #

I didn't think that Michael was as good as the judges thought he was. I thought he was shouting. However, I think that the biggest problem was the back up singers trying to out sing the contestants!

David Cook was amazing, and I listened to the Chris Cornell version and preferred David's.

David A. was horrendous. Good voice, but come on now. Really?

Astrid | Mar 25, 2008 7:40:20 PM | #

Finally! Randy criticizes his "star pupil" - but I'm not so sure I agreed. It seemed like something had crawled up his bum... maybe he read enough of David's columns that he thought he'd better switch it up a little? ;)

Nolette | Mar 25, 2008 7:47:06 PM | #

Ok - I am now officially convinced that David Cook should win. Having said that I still love Carly and I honestly think they are trying to insult her when it's not necessary....maybe they are finally embarassed about her recording past. Her song was great - every note was in tune and it sounded almost like the original other than the lack of raspiness. Her voice is incredible and she can sing anything. Now, David A. - oh please. Yeah he's ok but come ON!! He was about the 7th or 8th best tonight and if people actually turned off the picture and listened each week this kid would not win but sadly - he probably will. Let's just get rid of Cheesy Chikezie

Todd | Mar 25, 2008 8:13:44 PM | #

I thought David A was dreadful tonight. I also know that song, and he sung it completely off tune the whole way through. That's why Simon called it a carnival act.
David Cook definitely the best tonight. I'm liking him more and more every week. I also enjoyed Michael (second part especially) and Carly.
I didn't think Syesha was as good as everybody was saying. Thought the song was boring personally, and I thought Chekezie was better than everybody was saying. He has a good voice. He does need to cut out the hand holding though.
Very smart move by Kristy to pull out her get out of jail free card. There's no way she could get booted after singing a song about the USA.
Have to agree that I think Ramiele will probably be going home. No idea who else is going to be in the bottom three. David A and Kirsty are probably most deserving on performance, but don't see it, so it'll probably be two of Syesha, Carly and Chekezie.

Alex | Mar 25, 2008 8:37:19 PM | #

Bottom 3 should be Ramielle, Chikeze, and Syesha based on tonight's performances.

Chikeze lacks star power

Syesha and Ramielle are both very boring performers (in my opinion). Ramielle should go home if it's based on vocal performance tonight

3man | Mar 25, 2008 8:54:08 PM | #

I can't believe all of these comments and no one thinks Jason deserves to go home? Based on tonight he was worst. Cook and Johns I thought were the best..There are a lot of average singers and four of them do unknown or poor songs. Expected more from a predominantly 80's week. The one thing I like about this year is that a number of people can win, unlike other years when you knew it would be Kelly and Carrie.

Kennedy | Mar 25, 2008 9:06:47 PM | #

Yeah, Jason was fairly week. He does not have much range and has already hit his peak. I just assume he'll be safe because girls seem to like him for some reason.

3man | Mar 25, 2008 9:14:49 PM | #

FYI - The song that Ramielle sang is called "Alone", not "Hearts Alone." It was originally done by Heart, but the band's name is not part of the title.

Jo | Mar 25, 2008 9:30:29 PM | #

well.....Jason for sure should go. He cant sing cause u never hear his voice. Its always the same range no change at all. I also think Carly should go, she had her chance with a CD contract and it didnt sell. She got her break and she lost it. They should both go NOW!!!!!!!!

Sara | Mar 25, 2008 9:36:38 PM | #

Please let Ramiele go home tonight. She was horrible, and how many times has she been good? Not many. David Cook sang the song much better than the dreadful Cornell guy, who totally sucks.

Syesha, Michael and Jason all gave their best performances, IMHO. Kristy gave her best performance since her audition. As always I loved David A and David C. Carly was very good, as was Chikezie, but Brooke was not.

Bottom 3 tonight only- Ramiele, Brooke, and I guess, Chikezie

Bottom 3 overall- Jason, Ramiele, Chikezie

CraftyMatthew | Mar 25, 2008 10:28:47 PM | #

Critcizing the conestants for choosing songs from the '80's is a bad idea since everybody, except David A. and Michael had to choose from that point by virtue of their dates of birth.

cm | Mar 25, 2008 10:44:43 PM | #

The judge's comments were weird tonight. How could they praise Kristy Lee's uncomfortable little salute to America? First of all, that's the cheesiest song ever written and it should be universally banned. Second of all, Kristy Lee has a decent voice, but she has all the personality of a stick of celery. She's overstayed her welcome and it's time for her to leave us.

Carly's performance on the other hand was a lot of fun. I'm totally baffled by the judges' praise of David A. (who was sub-par tonight) and Kristy Lee, but their sour remarks toward Carly. Randy said something about not liking her doing "rock" performances. She has a tattoo sleeve, for crying out loud! She IS rock. "Total Eclipse of the Heart" might be one of the most fun power ballads to come from the eighties, and I think Carly brought down the house. Boo to the naysayers.

PS - I cannot stand David Cook! There's something about his smug little grin that makes me want to Tivo right through anytime he's on TV. Even if his performances are technically good, his cockiness is a real turn-off. Does anybody share my sentiment or at least know what I'm talking about? That guy rubs me the wrong way.

Cat | Mar 26, 2008 12:23:25 AM | #

David Cooke just pulled off the coolest performance that has ever been on American Idol and you lead your review with another unfunny joke about his hair. Great journalism there guy. Jeesh.

I haven't heard the Chris Cornell arrangement but I doubt it sounds much like David as their voices are very different. But damn that may have sold a lot of tour tickets right there.

I think conspiracy theorists might think that last week's surprise elimination of Amanda was Idol-strated so Kristy could sing that song with the American Flag flowing behind her (I bet Vote For The Worst compares this to the Conferation flag shot). Anyway I thought it was awful but I wouldn't be surprised if that coupled with David A.s abissmal performance may get Kathy Lee the most votes of all tonight. Felt like propaganda to me and I thought she was better on Eight Days A Week.

And Amanda had "On THe Dark Side" from Eddie and The Cruisers picked out for tonight and bluegrass Dolly Parton in two weeks. Wow that would have sold me a tour ticket. Too bad Kristy, Ramiele, David A, and Chikeze are still around.

I liked Brooke a lot but agree with the judges that just staying with the piano and then ending acapella would have been much cooler then the big band coming in.

The inevitable naming Chikeze cheesy was well deserved tonight. Oh was that bad. I think Chikezie or Ramiele goes home.

I just have to say if David A. wins the show this is the episode you can point to and prove how uncool American Idol voters are if he beats out Brooke and David Cooke.

Wow. David Cooke so surprised me.

Oh and does anyone else think Jason Castro would make a great Danny Zuko on broadway. I still prefer him sticking folk but he looks so much like Travolta.

Jason S. | Mar 26, 2008 12:37:21 AM | #

I don't get David Cook nor why everyone seems to love him AT all. I thought I'd just seen the most horrific butchering of the classic Michael Jackson song, and then to my surprise and horror, everyone else loved it!
I never have liked David Cook and I guess I'm too much of a MJ purist to get over the fact that he ruined Billie Jean.

Bryan | Mar 26, 2008 12:42:17 AM | #

Ha!!! I just read earlier comment about Travolta and Jason Castro.

JAson S. | Mar 26, 2008 12:44:47 AM | #

Just listened to the Chris Cornell version. Pretty damn good. I disagree that it's Chris cornell's arrangement that David did. Chris Cornell played it with just acoustic guitar and David played it with a band.

Maybe cause they're both rock versions of a pop/dance song.

Jason S. | Mar 26, 2008 12:57:57 AM | #

FYI Jo, Ryan meant "Heart's 'Alone'", meaning the song "Alone" by "Heart." Everyone knows the song is called "Alone."

Syesha really impressed me tonight. From where did those vocals come? I still think she lacks that certain something, but man, she sure sounded good. And yes, Chikezie is cheesy, but turn your head away from the t.v. and he sounds fantastic. Michael J. finally nailed it, even though he should give up that vest thing. David C. was great, although I don't think he has the same magic Chris Daughtry did. I love Brooke but she could have picked a better song for her. And Carly looked like she was going to fall apart when the reviews were bad. All I kept thinking was how good the Bonnie Tyler version is. Bottom line is that it's no longer a David A. lock to win. Daniel, you might have to change his title.

walt | Mar 26, 2008 1:43:43 AM | #

Jason S. maybe you should click that link again and this time look at some of the other video clips of Chris Cornell doing Billie Jean. Most of them have the full band playing with him. It's his version of the song. It's on his CD Carry On and there is even a video clip of him explaining why he did a cover of the song.

Not to mention Ryan said it was Chris' version before David started to sing.

SG | Mar 26, 2008 3:38:23 AM | #

Oh. My bad.

I just listened to the version with the acoustic guitar. SOunded pretty good. I haven't liked anything Chris Cornell has done since the Loud Love album in 1989 so I sort of gave up on listening to any of his stuff. His voice grates on me and gets a little repetitive when he sings high.

The acoustic lower register song sounds good though

Does anyone know if Madonna has ever been performed on Idol.

When Carly was saying she looked up to Madonna and wanted to be a pop star I was really hoping she was getting ready to tackle a Madonna song. Her first album came out in 1983 the year Carly was born.

Lucky Star would have been a perfect song choice for her to Rock up. Or possibly Borderline or Burning Up.

Jason S. | Mar 26, 2008 5:02:42 AM | #

I've said since day one that Jason Castro is the love child of John Travolta and Clifford the Muppet (go google images of both of them right now - it's uncanny).

Ramiele HAS to go home tonight and I completely agree that the producers had her go first on purpose just to get her out of the way. She's officially become the karaoke warm-um act.

So, congrats to her.

And I know this is probably crazy talk but David A. is one more "make the world a better place" song away from becoming legitimately obnoxious.

He's borderline now.

Josh | Mar 26, 2008 5:04:18 AM | #

I've said since day one that Jason Castro is the love child of John Travolta and Clifford the Muppet (go google images of both of them right now - it's uncanny).

Ramiele HAS to go home tonight and I completely agree that the producers had her go first on purpose just to get her out of the way. She's officially become the karaoke warm-up act.

So, congrats to her.

And I know this is probably crazy talk but David A. is one more "make the world a better place" song away from becoming legitimately obnoxious.

He's borderline now.

Josh | Mar 26, 2008 5:05:24 AM | #

I think the competition is at the point now where pluck (Ramielle) and charm (Jason) aren't gonna let people skate by anymore. The frontrunners, like the two David's, continue to excel and everyone else just looks mediocre by comparison.

I have to agree that either one of the two people I mentioned above will be going home.

Sean | Mar 26, 2008 5:23:46 AM | #

It was David A's to win and I agree that he is blowing it with poor song choices. David Cook even if he does not have the best voice you have to give him credit that he is orginial and takes chances. Kristy Lee is a stick on stage but has a great voice..hope she is better in bed. Carly has a great voice but is starting to turn me off. Brooke could win this thing..she looks great with new hair and sings great every week

Batman | Mar 26, 2008 5:27:25 AM | #

Although I should add, Kristy's been on the bubble for awhile now, and her "I <3 America!" was nice but reeked of desperation.

Sean | Mar 26, 2008 5:27:29 AM | #

Carly should not have attempted that song. It is a great song and she sang it poorly.

Jason, is he singing?

Brooke does the same schtick each week. She was sure proud of her self playing piano by ear and then what happens, she messes up on the piano. :)

Ramiele, I think she has a good voice, just bad choices.

David Cook will get a contract and it doesn't matter where he finishes.

I really liked Kristy tonight. Not because of the song choice, but because of her voice.

It was really nice to see Michael let his voice be heard.

David Archuletta was middle of the road for me. But why does everyone pick on him because he is so young? He has a great voice. Are people just jealous?

I really enjoyed Chikezie.

I was impreseesd by Syesha.

I think the bottom 3 will be:
Ramilele, Carly and Brooke.

Ramiele should go home.

Is it true that Carly had a recording contract and put out a single?

| Mar 26, 2008 5:31:30 AM | #

Jason Castro is not as good as people think. His voice is not strong...CHIKEZIE is better than Rubin was..think people are too rough with Mr. Chikezie..Sean Kristy's better than you think.

Batman | Mar 26, 2008 5:33:08 AM | #

Jason castro looks a lot like the Star Wars caracter Jar Jar binks.

Chuck | Mar 26, 2008 5:33:37 AM | #

RAMIELE MALUBAY GOOD BYE

BATGIRL | Mar 26, 2008 5:38:41 AM | #

I thought that over all last nite was pretty good. I'm not a fan of Ramile's but I think she did well last night.

I think Chikezie, Jason and Carly will be in the bottom 3 and Carly (HOPEFULLY, PLEASE) will go home. SHe screams her songs and is painful to watch. Jason has taken over from Amanda for mumbling his words, and he is very forgettable, I dont think he sang well at all last night. I think Chikezie is not consistant, he hasnt found his song style yet, and i think this could be dangerous. So, my opinion is the bottom 3 will be Carly, Chikezie and Jason with Carly going home - also did we really need to know that she went to the bathroom before her performance???? That was very awkward, and she actually kept her mouth shut last night, which I think was a bonus.

I think David C, is very overated, I thought the beginning of the song was really off key, it got good by the middle, but i'm tired of his turning songs into rock.

I also thought Michael J was really good.

Bea | Mar 26, 2008 5:41:00 AM | #

I was sooo bored with last nights performances, that was until David Cook performed at the end. I can't believe that Kristy is still there, I can't stand that girl and hated her song choice. The judges loved it too?! It was horrible, I think they all had wax build up in their ears during her performance. Last weeks performances may have been bad, as a whole, but at least they were interesting.

Kristina | Mar 26, 2008 5:41:58 AM | #

It's true: Jason Castro looks like he is ALWAYS high! I hope he doesn't win; he's such a one-trick pony...I mean rasta.

The only reason I'm watching this show is to read the recaps the next day; they're MUCH more entertaining than the actual show! Keep up the great work!!

Caro | Mar 26, 2008 5:42:34 AM | #

yes it's true that carly put out a single, it sold like 400 copies. Just google her and you will get the full story on her

| Mar 26, 2008 5:47:29 AM | #

Kristy Cook should go home. It was blatantly obvious she was playing the All American Girl card as she knows she barely made Top 10. she doesnt deserve the spot. she is forgettable. David Cook despite the runner up to Trump for worst hair has a very good voice and does take chances vocally. The band and back up singers are louder each weerk, Especially that guy with the red guitar, can we move his microphone further away??

pat | Mar 26, 2008 5:47:43 AM | #

Did anyone else think the backup singers were dreadful last night?

Chelsea | Mar 26, 2008 5:55:48 AM | #

I'm normally not a David Cook fan but last night's performance was on the same level as Chris Daughtry's "I Walk the Line".

Randy was right to say Chikezie was pitchy. Sorry dude, you're no Ruben.

Jason Castro was HORRIBLE.

Michael Johns was 2nd best tonite. He can sing.

David A sang a horrible song last night. The guy can sing, but the song choice was attrocious.

Brooke will be the last girl standing.

I don't think Syesha is as good as everything thinks she is. Her voice doesn't match up to any of the girls last year. But she isn't terrible either.

Carly looks like she's gonna off someone soon.

I feel for Ramielle whose got to know she's leaving tonite.

Not that I really trust the thing, but Dial Idol has David Cook getting the most votes. That's like the first time since voting began this season that David A is not the runaway winner.

Hyvent | Mar 26, 2008 6:06:24 AM | #

I dont know what show everyone watched last night but besides chikeze and I thought it was one of the best ever shows. Hey cook stop trying to be that guy who sings for the foo fighters. Cant someone have their own originality.

john gunner | Mar 26, 2008 6:07:34 AM | #

john gunner | Mar 26, 2008 6:07:38 AM | #

Chelsea, I thought the backups were pretty bad too. Especially the first song with Ramielle. That one sing lady who sang the harmony sang waaaay too loud. It's like she did it on purpose.

And yeh, even thought I think Ramielle will leave tonite, Kristy's gotta go!!

Hyvent | Mar 26, 2008 6:14:24 AM | #

I'm so tired of everyone knocking Carly for having a failed record contract. What about Kristi, David Cook, Michael? They have all had their failed records too.

I think Carly by far has the best vocal talent, but I will admit that her song choices have been a little off.

Deanna | Mar 26, 2008 6:34:39 AM | #

I completely agree about the backup singers - they were louder than some of the Idols in several cases! I don't get this fascination with David A - he just seems so phony to me. I have to look away every times he plasters that faux-sincere look on his face when he's singing. Shudder!

Dani | Mar 26, 2008 6:43:56 AM | #

Just read that Paula wears the gloves or something else unique whenever a little girl she knows is in the hospital for her cancer treatments.

Bob | Mar 26, 2008 6:48:53 AM | #

I thought the back up singer who sang with Carly was better than Carly.

As for Jason, he can't sing, period.

David A was not at his best, but we all know he has a great voice.

Brook is getting a little boring. She really has no stage presence.

Don't like Michael at all.

I love David Cook, but not his hair. I think he's the one to beat.

Kathy | Mar 26, 2008 6:49:09 AM | #

"You're" The Voice.

Not "Your" The Voice.

Michael Johns killed it ... best performance yet for him ... David Cook ... i wish they'd stop crediting him for 'originality' ... check out Chris Cornell's version of Billie Jean, kids.

Dave | Mar 26, 2008 6:58:59 AM | #

Dave,

You are right about Cornell's cover. I just couldn't remember who sang it. But David still was good.

What is with all the Kristy haters. She was good last night. It is based on the night's performance, not a combined judging over weeks. It is good to see her improve. And your upset because she chose a patriotic song. She is pretty intelligent if you ask me.

Based on last nights performance I think Ramiele, Jason or Carly should go.

Maybe even Brooke?

| Mar 26, 2008 7:12:58 AM | #

If you think this is all about someone's vocal ability, you'r wrong: an idol must meet expectations in many other areas. So, if an oversized, always glaring tatoo affects some people negatively, they won't vote only on the voice behind it. The same with a comb-over hair do, John Travolta/muppet eyes camera mugging, etc. The best voice doesn't always win (sorry Kat, you didn't move like Taylor, but you sure sang better than he did!)

Keith 15 | Mar 26, 2008 7:13:35 AM | #

David Cook and Michael Johns were the top 2 last night.Syesha was the top female.

There is a little problem I see, Brooke, Jason and David A have 3 of the biggest fanbases but are afraid to take a chance and sing out of there comfort zones. There performances are becoming boring and predictable.

For all you KLC haters out there, face it she's a beautiful girl and isn't going anywhere soon. When she sings in the high key which she did a little last night she's pretty good.
The bottom 3 are Ramiele, Chikeze and Jason Castro altough they might throw Carly in there again. And it's Ramiele's time.

Simon's shirt | Mar 26, 2008 7:20:58 AM | #

David Cook is the full package: voice, passion, and performance. He's also smart at choosing variants of songs people are familiar with. David Archuleta may have a great voice, but he has no stage presence. You won't impress anyone with your feet glued to the floor. Same goes for you, Kristy Lee and Ramiele

Tim | Mar 26, 2008 7:23:29 AM | #

Look at Rueben & Taylor. They are not a marketers dream. Rueben isn't skinny and Taylor isn't marketable. But they both still won.

Soooooooo, I would have to disagree with you.

I take it you are a Carly fan?

If her voice is good enough she will win.

If not, it won't be because of her tatoos. I wonder what her failed CD sounded like?

| Mar 26, 2008 7:27:04 AM | #

It's going to be an interesting elimination tonight. Ramiele deserves to go, definitely. But she hasn't appeared once in the bottom three, even with her atrocious performance last week. On the other hand, I mostly disagree with the negative comments about Jason. Yes, he's not a power singer, and thank god for that. He could be a little less dopey, I suppose, but he chooses excellent material and handles it with a certain ease and style. Should be in the bottom three: Ramiele, Chikezie, and - worst of all - Kristy. Will be in the bottom three: Chikezie, Carly and Syesha.

vncntdl | Mar 26, 2008 7:28:14 AM | #

vncntdl-
Jason is really bad. He has not range, He doesn't have to be a power singer. But he just getting by on his looks.

And you really didn't like Kristy's performance last night. If you listen, it was good.

| Mar 26, 2008 7:35:09 AM | #

Hey Y'all...

A quick two-part interjection...

JasonS - I'd actually had a comment after the David Cook hair mentions (not even jokes, just comments) about how I was done discussing his hair. I removed it to try to rephrase and never remembered to fix it. I think the deleted statement is still true.

That isn't so interesting.

But I urge people to check out the prediction site DialIdol (http://www.dialidol.com) if they don't already. They've been "close-to-right" more than they've been "right" this season, but the interesting thing is that according to DialIdol, David Cook moved ahead of David Archuleta in last night's voting. That wouldn't normally be a surprise given that David Cook was great last night (though have pity on that person who thinks Cook is better than Chris freakin' Cornell), but Archuleta's margins have been MASSIVE every week including his Blunderful Beatles performance.

I wouldn't take that as gospel, but it's a good sign for people hoping this season's race eventually opens up...

-Daniel

Daniel | Mar 26, 2008 7:44:10 AM | #

Cat, I totally agree--David Cook's smug demeanor and creepy camera come-ons really turn me off too. I wish we could combine Michael Johns and David Cook into one dude, with DC's performance and MJ's looks and manner. That said, I am a Chikezie booster all the way. He's entertaining and fun, and if he stays in, I would like to see what sort of interesting mash-up he comes up with.

Cate | Mar 26, 2008 7:46:00 AM | #

Jason Castro reminds me of Travolta....Hairspray John Travolta. =0

David A and Ramielle are both suffering BSC...BAD SONG CHOICES.

Carly and Michael were shouting...shouting does not mean good singing. I too think the backup singers were too loud.

David C must be "BIG" =0...if I was 24 with a combover, I'm be depressed not all smug like that.

Bottom 3...Syesha, Cheezie and Carly with Syesha going home

Pookie | Mar 26, 2008 8:01:30 AM | #

Bye-Bye Dreadful Locks! Jason was awful and he didn't help with his mumbling about he should have practiced more because his guitar playing was slopppy.

What is up with Paula? She was slurring and glassy-eyed again. Is she off her meds, too many meds, drunk, not drunk enough, what is it with her?

Loved Simon's comment on David A's song choice not being his own, hint Dad back off. When I watched David A. I thought he belongs on the Disney or Nickalodean channel. It's not a put-down, its where he would be more successful.

Kristy will be safe because Dolly's coming so it was a desperately, smart choice.

David C. has an arrogance about him. He's talented but his smugness isn't going to help.

Bottom 3: Jason, Rami, Kristy

jt | Mar 26, 2008 8:09:13 AM | #

thank you chuck! jar jar binks...of course. it's been bugging me for weeks. :)

steffy | Mar 26, 2008 8:23:48 AM | #

Well, I thought Ramielle was awful, and continues her string of karaoke performances. Jason was poor again this week, but the I figure the teen-girls will pull him through again. Maybe the Amanda voters will go for his mumble style.

Give Kristy props it was a better performance than the past few weeks. And if you don't vote for Kristy the terrorists win. Still think she will land in the bottom three; because its become her identity with the viewers. I don't see her picking up many other votes .

David Cook was amazing, when he started that song, I couldn't believe that was Billie Jean.

David A. is a good singer but nearly every song he sings feels like an appeal to help underprivileged kids in a third world country.

I'll say Ramielle, Chiekzie, and Kristy in the bottom three and Ramielle going home.

jbw | Mar 26, 2008 9:01:15 AM | #

I really hope Ramiele can survive long enough to produce at least one more great performance. I know she can do it.

I think Chikezie (cheesy) is going home. The others in the bottom 3; Jason and Carly.

Ritchie | Mar 26, 2008 9:06:06 AM | #

Simon was probably alluding to David A's intrusive and domineering father when he said he suspected David didn't pick his own song. Word has it that Dad is a real "stage parent" and is getting on the nerves of those behind-the-scenes trying to control things with David's songs and performances.

Garry | Mar 26, 2008 9:15:15 AM | #

Hi!

Yeah! finally we saw last night who are the better singers in the competition... and the ones that sings well but no star power.

For me the top 3 will be in no order...

brook white
david cook
michael johns

the others...

Archuleta always sound the same, nothing new. He is right now where he is becaus of his pretty face.

Jason Castro...Boring!!1 always singing like Brady Bunch songs.

Carly... trying too hard to
buy people votes, she sings well but , i dont know somethings missing there.

ramiele... time to go, last night is prove of that.

chakisie... has i think the most chance to go to the top five he has something that the some dont. Charisma, showmanship etc.

Seysha... over confident. she thinks shes better than the rest and that she deserves to be there. She tinks she is a star because of a couple of commercials? please! hope she gonig home soon.

Krysty... a great improvement. if she keeps singing country I think she has potential to be in the top 5.

AND LAST, WHAT A CRAPPY SONG , THE GOING HOME SONG AT THE LAST OF THE ELIMINATION, PLEASE!!!!

Richard | Mar 26, 2008 9:18:47 AM | #

Don't think David A. is going to win. He's setting up a case for major backlash, and as the contestant pool gets smaller, those who don't like him will settle on some other singer. He just seems to be swallowed up by the stage.

Thought Carly, David C., and Michael were the best tonight.

Adam | Mar 26, 2008 9:22:12 AM | #

I'm surprised Ramiele has lasted this long. Her constant crying each time one of the earlier top 24 was voted off was a total turn off. That got her noticed and I noticed she can not sing.

Michael Johns would be expected to perform a Queen anthem as well as he did. While he was my favourite to win after the audition round, he hasn't really impressed since. Other than doing Queen well, he's destroyed all the other songs he has sung.

The most memorable bad performance of the night was Carly's "Total Eclipse of The Heart." I was waiting and hoping one of the judges would say the song did more to highlight how good the background singers were and how mediocre Carly was. This was a terrible song choice mainly because at the beginning one would not know by listening who the "star" was supposed to be. Carly? Or the background singer?

While the fans seem to be suggesting that David Archuleta could be the grand prize winner this year, he has yet to deliver that "oh wow" performance such as Chikezie did a few weeks ago. I totally agreed with Simon's comment that Archuleta's performance was what you would expect at an amusement park. As I was listening to Archuleta sing the chorus, which he did well mind you, I was imagining him on stage at Calaway Park, Canada's Wonderland or even Disneyland. Simon does get it brutally right sometimes.

Although he is not yet a favourite of mine, David Cook is the one contestant who seems to improve week after week. When he was punching that one note last night in Billie Jean I immediately thought of Chris Daughtry's performance when he nearly blew his vocal chords and was rapped by the judges for it. Luckily for David, his voice held and he pulled it off. As good as Daughtry is, Cook may be better.

Everyone else was forgettable.

But I must throw this in regarding Kristy Lee Cook's rendition of "God Bless The USA." She could have sang it like a toad and the judges would not have been able to knock her for it. You cannot, in a forum like American Idol, bash anyone who sings a patriotic anthem such as this song. That, in all likelihood, is why Simon said it was the most clever song choice in years -- especially since he is not an American. Can you imagine the morning news chatter had he given Kristy a bad review? Scandal!!!

Richard | Mar 26, 2008 9:35:11 AM | #

"Total Eclipse of the Heart" is a great song, it is too bad Carly ruined it.

Jason- was awful

Ramiele- BAD

Bottom 3 are the above and with any luck Carly will go home. (She has already had a recording contract and I see why it failed)

| Mar 26, 2008 9:35:34 AM | #

I will say that overall it was a good night. I thought Ramiele and Jason were bad; but everyone else was at least good from David Cook's great performance to Chikeize's okay performance.

it | Mar 26, 2008 9:44:21 AM | #

I hope Kristy is not in the bottom three tonight. For no other reason than, wouldn't you love to see the look on her face when Ryan says she's safe.

it | Mar 26, 2008 9:47:24 AM | #

It-

Yes, that would be priceless and it would be good to see her with Dolly.

| Mar 26, 2008 9:50:42 AM | #

I agree, can we vote off the backup singers? That one chick in the middle was screaming and was louder than the performers, not only that, but she sounded terrible.
I didn't like Kristy's performance I don't think she put enough emotion in to it.

I also think that Ramiele will be going home, but America often surprises me.

Nel | Mar 26, 2008 10:03:55 AM | #

I loved Carly's performance and think she rocked it....im tired of the judges criticizing her. Micheal John was ah-mazing and i loved it times 23559671!!! David A. i thought was good 2, not his best but still great....Ramielle i thought did ah-mazing w/ Heart's "Alone". I love Brooke and her gorgeous voice.... plus her hair looked ah-mazing strait!

Bottom 3= Chikezie,Jason Castro, and ?

Carly | Mar 26, 2008 10:04:18 AM | #

Carly should have sung the "Old School" version of Total eclipse of the heart, now that would have been funny...

Kim | Mar 26, 2008 10:09:45 AM | #

=)-

WHAT AMERICAN IDOL ARE YOU WATCHING?

| Mar 26, 2008 10:20:46 AM | #

love david cook even with his alien forehead, balding comb-over and smirk! david a. thought he was performing in high school musical 3. i'm ready for ramiele, jason and kristy to go home.

TC | Mar 26, 2008 10:24:57 AM | #

Carly's choice gave me the opportunity to recall one of my favorite AIdol performances of all time: Of course, I speak of Jessica Sierra's "Total Eclipse of the Heart!" Hers was 100X better than Carly's, whose last pitiful note only put an exclamation point on a poor job all around.

So, Carly is skating on thin ice (but she is the highest rated female on dialidol this week). I guess all she has to look forward to are a couple of arrests for DUI and assaulting a police officer, followed by a stint on Celebrity Rehab!

Tony | Mar 26, 2008 10:31:19 AM | #

GO KRISTY!

| Mar 26, 2008 10:32:41 AM | #

I HATED Billie Jean. I didn't even know what it was til like halfway through.

I don't usually like Kristi but I thought she did a good job last night.

Deb | Mar 26, 2008 10:33:02 AM | #

I am 56 and have a crush on David A. Does that make me a perv? :-)

IMO, David C. isn't THAT good.

Deb | Mar 26, 2008 10:37:36 AM | #

Bryan,

I TOTALLY agree with you about David C!

Deb | Mar 26, 2008 10:39:08 AM | #

While I agree that Ramielle may have reached the end of the line, she does have a beautiful voice. She just is not a good performer. Brooke is sincere and moving; Ramielle is sincere and lackluster.

Mike | Mar 26, 2008 10:40:46 AM | #

John Travolta + Minnie Driver = Jason

beej | Mar 26, 2008 11:02:22 AM | #

The sound mixing from last nights telecast was terrible. The mixers did a huge disservice to the contestants, especially Michael Johns. Thankfully, the judges hear a different mix live and can give an accurate critique. But us voters at home hear what could be a good performance sound really bad at home. Fox get a better a sound mixer Please!

Jen S | Mar 26, 2008 11:10:58 AM | #

The thing about David Cook is the way he does unusual versions of songs we all know...even if he didn't originate the "Billie Jean" version, it was still awesome. I can't imagine anybody else this season taking the risk of that arrangement. He is one of my favorites!

IdolGirl | Mar 26, 2008 11:22:26 AM | #

I voted for Kristy. This is the first time this season that I have voted.

Trupen | Mar 26, 2008 11:33:39 AM | #

Deb, I'm close to your age and have a crush on David A, and I'm no perv.

Eric 23 | Mar 26, 2008 11:38:25 AM | #

Even though I'd like to rip her head off and attach it to a charm bracelet, I think poor Ramiele will go home, tonight. Frankly, Jason was worse.
Totally agree that David Cook is annoyingly smug.
Since Ryan so often makes comments after Simon criticizes, I was disappointed that he didn't ask David Archuleta if someone else had indeed picked that song for him. Weird song choice and not a great performance.
I was so tickled by Simon's proclamation that Kristi Lee's song choice was brilliant ... wasn't it ever!

Jan | Mar 26, 2008 11:56:27 AM | #

David Archuleta is damned if he does or damned if he doesn't. I thought David A. performed great. He connected with the song even though it was unfamiliar to some, I thought he brought conviction which resonated with the audience.

I don't get David Cook at all. Where is the originality. Week in and week out, he is simply doing a cover version of some one who covered the songs...frankly it's getting old and the judges will finally catch on.

Michael Johns, another Queen song, oye!!!

Tops for me tonight is David Archuleta and Brooke White who I hope will be the final 2.

David C wil be eliminated for the fact that his fans want to hear him and not an Idol produced album....so therefore he will go the Daughtry route, finish high but not win enough to enable David to create an album that he wants to do....

aiken4olivia | Mar 26, 2008 12:03:35 PM | #

Why do we hear the same songs over and over? Carrie Underwood outperformed "Alone." Tamyra Gray outshined Syesha's "If I Were You're Woman" (i thought that song was from the 70's?)And we've heard "Total Eclipse 5 million times!!" Can anyone get the rights to U2 or Madonna, or something different?

Jason needs to leave with his doped-up demeanor. This isn't a Texas coffeehouse competition. Michael Johns finally rocked it last night. And Carly looked psychotic because the middle background singer needed to take it down a notch. I wouldn't pay to see David Archuleta close his eyes while performing at Disneyland any day...And he didn't flicker or deny that someone else supposedly picked that song for him. Ahem....

The Devil Governor | Mar 26, 2008 12:23:56 PM | #

The most perfect performances belonged to Syesha, Michael, Carly, Kristy, and David Cook. There should be no way that one of them will be in the bottom three. They were all perfect and all are going to stay. As for who goes home...bye bye Ramiele!

Shaun | Mar 26, 2008 12:28:49 PM | #

I'm so sick of people busting Carly for her tattoos or having been signed already. You can hear samples of her album and see the video on itunes under her maiden name, Carly Hennessey. She was only 17 years old when she was signed, and the songs she sang on the album (probably chosen by the label) were total crap, so no, she didn't have a hit record. But how can we so strictly judge people on the things they did when they were 17 or 18 years old, and completely disavow the concept of being able to mature and grow and learn as a performer and a person? Carly has a fantastic voice. Sheryl Crow was signed and her first album was pulled because it wasn't very good. Should she not have gotten another chance?

If anything, Carly or Michael won't win because they're not originally from America. People may say we're a melting pot, but if it comes down to it, I doubt they'll vote for some who wasn't born in the US.

Other thoughts: David Cook sings well like Chris Daughtry but he's not as hot as Chris Daughtry.

Ramiele, God love her, grow up and stop crying so much. Suck it up and sing in tune for just one week.

David A. has a nice voice but is so boring. Yes, he does belong on the Disney channel, but surely not on my iPod. That song last night was wretched. He's so deadly earnest each week, and too young and inexperienced to understand how to change it up in an interesting way.

Jason looks like the biggest stoner. Seriously, dude, come to my dorm room tonight and we'll jam on some tunes and smoke out. Bring the Cheetos.

Brooke--so wholesome you could drink her with oreos. I'm glad she did the world's greatest stalker song last night--it showed a sliver of dark side.

God Bless the USA is the cheesiest most Triscuit needing song ever written. Watch the original video on youtube. Bleccchh. I could throw up.

Jen | Mar 26, 2008 12:30:27 PM | #

Interesting comments. David C. has proven that he should win and those that have said otherwise proves to me why the best singers don't win on Americian Idol. I'm sure they these people didn't like Chris Daughtrey either. Doesn't matter now, he's making plenty of money. David C. will too.

Victor | Mar 26, 2008 12:42:53 PM | #

Victor -

We'll see.

Deb | Mar 26, 2008 12:48:34 PM | #

David Cook must win!! he has talent, appeal...he has all to win, I hope America makes justice because at the beginning everyone was talking about Archuleta, but he is not so good, he deserves to be just a finalist, maybe one of the top 5.

David Cook is a winner

Joey's girl | Mar 26, 2008 12:52:20 PM | #

David Cook has "appeal"???? Now I know what Joey means about you.

Joey's friend | Mar 26, 2008 1:11:27 PM | #

Personally, I don't think Carly was bad at all. She has an amazing voice with much more range than the rest of the girls in the competition so far. "Total Eclipse Of The Heart" may not have been the best song chioce for her and that end note was totally unnecessary because the song does not end on a big note.
Michael Johns FINALLY pulls his big voice out of his hat for us after three lousy weeks in a row.
David A. I just don't get the appeal. The kid can sing and I think Simon was right when he said theme park singer. In fact, and this is not an insult, the kid would be great performing at Disney.
Chickezie - what was wrong with that perfomance? I love Luther Vandross and I thought Cheesy did a great job with that song. Not as good as the last 2 weeks but, not bad enough to boot him for either.
Sayesha - beautiful girl, beautiful voice, just not memorable enough - too bad.
Jason - Somebody please get this kid a clue. WOW! oh and get him a vocal range too cause he's got none.
Ramiele - I love her. Too bad she can't hit those big notes like I thought she could. Maybe she is just ill, like Paula - I mean with a cold. Sadly, I think she may go this time.
David C. - AWESOME!!! So what if it's a cover of a cover of a Michael Jackson song! The kid did a fabulous job with it. That took guts! Now, I loved his big note just before the end of the song.
Kristy Lee - Not bad! Much improved over the last 3 weeks.
Brooke - Plays piano, pretty voice...........boring IMO. Loved her straight hair.

Chris | Mar 26, 2008 1:17:45 PM | #

Jen-
"God Bless the USA" is a great song, nothing Triscuit about it.

Are you from America?

Or you one of the people that are born/live here and complain about patriotism?

| Mar 26, 2008 1:34:47 PM | #

I'm not a fan of Carly...I will freely admit that the girl has a nice voice, but quite honestly, so did a lot of people at the auditions who would probably be more deserving of a top-24 and now top-10 spot than she is. I thought at first that her song last night was okay, but I just rewatched it and realized that it was a far cry from a good performance. I'd much rather see her go than Ramiele, but I also think that Ramiele has been lackluster for a few weeks running. Maybe her popularity will keep her in another week.

I think Kristy should just get ONE week off of the bottom 3...and I completely agree with Simon's evaluation of her song choice. It was pure strategy.

I loved Michael Johns and David Cook. Johns seems to shine when he does Queen.

I really like Chikezie...he really has a great vocal range and is very versatile as a singer and performer...but the cheese needs to be toned down a bit. Hopefully he'll get another chance to get back on track!

I think the bottom three will be Carly, Jason Castro and Ramiele. I would wish that Carly go home, but I think it's a toss-up between Castro and Ramiele.

Aleks | Mar 26, 2008 2:12:32 PM | #

Getting this post in rather late.

I would have the bottom 3 as Ramiele, Jason and David A. with David A. by far the worst of the night.

I think the actual bottom 3 will be Ramiele, Chikezie and Carly with Carly going home. I do see Chikezie as a good possibility of being sent home also. I think the other 8 are safe.

I thought David C. and Michael were the 2 best - it appears to me that Michael got the biggest pop of the night.

I've heard other covers of Billie Jean before, but I hadn't heard Chris Cornell's version before today (I missed who Ryan said did the cover version that David would be performing). I really liked it (both versions). I, of course, do prefer Michael Jackson's version of the song (it is my personal favourite MJ song), but had David C. attempted that version he would likely be in the bottom 3. I gotto say, that he is really been very consistent since doing the rock version of Hello. I hope he gets the pimp slot again next week.

Rishi | Mar 26, 2008 2:19:59 PM | #

I can not stand David Cook. I cannot understand why each week he is praised the way he is. His arrogant attitude is annoying, be humble about a comment, not cocky. Also, his rendition of Billie Jean was TERRIBLE!!! It was not meant to be a rock song. He sure is no Chris Daughtry.

My favorite performances were Michael Johns and Brooke. David A. was pretty good like always.

Personal Bottom 3:
David Cook
Rameille
Kristy

Will Be Bottom 3:
Rameille
Syeshia
Chikeze

Scott | Mar 26, 2008 2:45:15 PM | #

Hmm, my post above was Mangled! Time to chage the batteries in my keyboard. It shuld have read like this...

Okay, so if I really think about it, my opinion is that they all kinda sucked last night - and I love his show.

There was a bad mix of shouting and bum notes tonight. If a performance didn't have both, there was one or the other. I was disappointed, and two of my favorite songs were performed tonight (Alone & Total Eclipse)

And I agree with Richard about Carly - I really want to like her, but something seems to be missing for me. I think maybe, like Simon said, she needs to loosen up. Maybe she feels like this is her last chance. After all, as it has been mentioned MANY times, she had a record deal already, and for whatever reason, it didn't translate into stardom. How many more shots will she have?

MDEP | Mar 26, 2008 4:02:46 PM | #

It's so good to know I'm not the only one who can't stand David Cook's smirky little smile and cocky attitude. He sings OK, but like Simon said last week, Cook's not as good as he thinks he is.
I like Brooke, but she seems a little awkward on stage when she's not with a piano or a guitar. And her doing that could get boring before the end of the season.

MGC | Mar 26, 2008 4:15:05 PM | #

Yes, to anonymous--I am from America and if I remember correctly, that entitles me to have my own opinion that "God Bless the USA" is a horrible horrible song. The idea that not liking this song makes me less patriotic is ridiculous and offensive. I suppose you imply that if I didn't enjoy other All-American activities like eating apple pie or shopping at WalMart that I should be deported. Don't be so self-righteous and small minded. I don't have to fit into some stereotypical cookie cutter mold to prove how patriotic I am. That's why Simon said it was the most clever song choice a contestant could make--because you can't say anything bad about the song or the singing or risk being judged as unpatriotic rather than being judged on the merit of the performance.

Jen | Mar 26, 2008 4:47:10 PM | #

Yes, now that it's been mentioned, Dreads does look like John Travolta!! I also think Kristy Lee looks like a young Mariel Hemmingway. Personally, I LOVED Aussie's Queen performance, and David Cook's. Kristy actually was in my top 4, along with Brooke. Carly disappointed, and Rami, Chick, Sy, and Little David, all were boring and not memorable. Dreads needs to just go to Jamaica and strum his guitar on the beach for tips! My bottom 3: Rami, Chick, Carly.

SIS | Mar 26, 2008 6:00:07 PM | #

Deanna, I don't know about the others, but David never had a recording contract. The CDs he has out he produced independently. Believe me, if he had had 2 million dollars spent on promoting his CD or the band he started he definitely wouldn't need to be on American Idol, because we would be hearing him on the radio and calling in to try and win tickets to his sold out concert.

And how is it that no one seemed to notice how subdued and NOT SMUG David was tonight? After both Paula and Randy complimented him all he did was put his hands together and bow, that isn't smug at all. For some reason, people think that if David Cook is having a good time that means he is being arrogant. So what does he do? He tries to make it look like he isn't having the time of his life and yet you people still continue to ridicule him.

Scifisam | Mar 27, 2008 6:18:34 PM | #