With only a few weeks left before the big night, things are really getting serious.
The top six finalists did a fine job with their performances of songs by the unconventional Carole King, who has had so many solo hits, and has written wonderful stuff for any number of other artists. She has plenty of great songs from which they could choose, with the help of Babyface as part of the coaching team.
Jennifer Lopez looked HOT tonight and Ryan Seacrest somehow looked especially vibrant and happy as he introduced the contestants for their performances.
Tonight’s pieces were all fairly well chosen as attested to by the audience who loved them.
Jacob Lusk sang “Oh No, Not My Baby“: Jacob did his best with this, and the judges liked to quite like this number. It was likely one of his best, but it didn’t really move me. However, Jacob has been hanging on over the past weeks to the satisfaction and love of the audiences.
Lauren Alaina‘s choice was “Where You Lead“: Not so sure she will be staying on as one of the finalists, but she’s young and she tried her best. The judges always encourage her and tonight, they loved her. Not many people have someone like Miley Cyrus to give them nice encouraging words, but Miley was happy to offer some help and advice to Lauren, prior to her performance.
Next came the duet of Haley Reinhart and Casey Abrams: They moved us with “I Feel the Earth Move.” Haley was so strong and how we love the things she can do with that voice. Casey was a good combination with Haley and they were fab together. The judges were immensely impressed.
The choice of song for Scotty McCreery was “You’ve Got A Friend“: Not really his greatest performance and he didn’t seem too comfortable with it, though he did try to “countrify” it a little. As usual, the audience adored him.
James Durbin gave the audience what they love…a true performance, with “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow.” As Ryan said, the softer, more vulnerable side of James Durbin came through, as he opened up without accompaniment. He gave an exceptionally good performance in true “Durbin style.” It was in fact, stellar! Jenn thought it was amazing. Randy said James is in it to win it and stated that “He can SING.” Steven said that he made out for the first time to that music. Ryan said he’s a superstar!
Lauren Alaina and Scotty McCreery’s duet was uplifting with “Up On the Roof.” They seemed to struggle a bit with the song itself, but they had a nice rapport and looked like they really enjoyed themselves. Jen thought it was beautiful.
Casey Abrams never ceases to surprise and he did this evening as well. I know this was the perfect song for him, “Hi Dee Ho,” and for me too, as he saaaang his way through it. He did such a great, jazzy, bluezy thing – the most he could possibly do with it. Steven said it was so good it made his scalp itch. It felt like we were transported to New Orleans.
Beautiful Haley Reinhart sang “Beautiful” and it was just that. Haley belted out that song, and she did what she does best – she performed! As well, she looked GREAT! I don’t know what is up with Randy, as he seems to be making a habit of criticizing Haley. The voters usually seem to go along with what Randy says, but I hope this time, they make up their own minds and ignore Randy. Haley happens to be my personal favorite at this point and the audience loved her too. She gave this song everything it needed as she dug right down into her shoes for that song.
James Durbin and Jacob Lusk as a duet? Well, it worked. These guys were so good singing together – “Something Tells Me I’m Into Something Good.” James definitely took the lead and led them to a great musical place. Terrific job! Steven said they did well, and “goodness knows you can sing!”
The duet pairings were worked out well for the contestants. I think the kids enjoyed performing this way as much as the audience enjoyed listening to and watching them.
photo:buzzfocus.com
american idol needs to become like the voice