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Subject: American Idol 2011

Posted by: weykool - [138481617] Thu, Jan 27, 2011, 14:10

Is anyone watching?
We all knew it would not be the same without Simon but I didnt expect it would be so difficult to watch.
Adding J-lo and Tyler was a huge upgrade from Ellen and Kara but the show is still lacking someone to come out and say "You suck".
Which of the judges are going to step up and be critical when criticizm is needed to challenge the contestants to be better?

Of course, like they do every season we are being told this is one of the most talented groups ever.
In the end it comes down to how exceptional the top 3 or 4 are, and not how many "decent" singers they send to Hollywood.
The first week there were 90 tickets and last night there was another 50.
In past seasons if they gave out 30 they were being very generous.
I'm still going to watch but they need to make big improvements if the show is going to survive.

JeffG
Dude
ID: 01584348
Thu, Jan 27, 2011, 14:27

I actually like what Tyler brings and am surprised on how little I miss Cowel. Tyler has a sharp wit and has been good with the one liners. J Lo is just so nice to look.

I agree that they are sending too many through to Hollywood that need some more seasoning. I thought when they raised the max age about 5 seasons back, the talent pool got more diverse and interesting, but I think lowering the min age as they did this year to 15 won't have the same effect and may backfire.

Over the last couple of seasons, the performance shows just seemed to lack depth and there were so few show stopping performances, and there was too big a gap between the top 3 or 4 and the rest of the finalists to build any suspense. I think for the show to survive now after 10 years of repitition, we need the performance shows to really bring it.

Very good singers have won the last several seasons, but I kind of lost the expectation that Idol is going to produce another superstar.

ChicagoTRS
ID: 1550160
Thu, Feb 17, 2011, 22:11

I have grown to like the judging this season...a lot less nonsense. I also thought I would miss Simon but so far not so much...we will see when we get into the real competition. Tyler is quick witted and intelligent. J Lo seems pretty authentic...easily the best female judge they have had (not that the competition is that fierce).

There were a couple of incredible performances tonight. Jacob knocked that shit out of the park. Talent bar seems high this season...could be a top 10 that all has true talent.

weykool
ID: 138481617
Tue, Feb 22, 2011, 12:46

I will not miss Simon when it comes to the to the useless banter between the other judges and Seacrest.
However, Im not so sure the current judges have what it takes to actually judge.
In past seasons the judging usually went like:
Randy: I dont know dog...sounded a little pitchey to me. Or that was hot America, that was the bomb.
Ellen: I think I have to agree with Randy.
Paula: Nice outfit.
Kara: That was Good, Bad, just OK (As she looks towards Simon hoping she got another one right).
Simon: Whatever the comments were, 95% of the time it was exactly what most people in America were thinking. There was the expectation and anticipation that our opinions of what we just heard were going to be validated.

Dont get me wrong I like all of the current judges and as a whole is probably the best team.....but Im still gonna miss Simon.

ChicagoTRS
ID: 1740422
Tue, Feb 22, 2011, 14:29

I agree that there has to be a judge that offers an honest critical opinion. Interested once we get to the real competition whether Tyler or J Lo will get a bit more critical. I have a feeling Tyler will be more critical when we get to the real competition.

Casey Abrams and Jacob Lusk both killed it in the Hollywood singles. Could watch both over and over.
Casey Abrams
Jacob Lusk

Ref
Donor
ID: 539581218
Tue, Feb 22, 2011, 22:47

Randy has stepped up this season. JLo and Tyler have been better than expected. I think the overall talent is the best ever. Not sure if the top 6-10 will be the best ever though.

GoatLocker
Leader
ID: 060151121
Wed, Feb 23, 2011, 17:51

So, now it really begins.
Tonites how is supposed to be 2 hrs.
Was changed to one hour because J'Lo breaks down and can't continue because one of her favorites gets canned.
Did Paula coach her or something.

JeffG
Dude
ID: 01584348
Mon, Feb 28, 2011, 16:34

Top 24 perform this week, guys Tuesday and girls on Wednesday. Supposedly we get to the top-12 after this week's results show on Thursday, but I think I heard that in addition to voters picking their favorites (perhaps top 4 guys and girls), the final 12 will include judge's wild card selections.

Voting this year in addition to phone numbers and texts (ATT customers) includes for the first time online voting.

Chris Medina (the guy who had the tragic story about his fiance's brain injury from a car accident) is not in the top-24, is is releasing a single and will appear on the Tonight Show Friday 3/6.

ChicagoTRS
ID: 1740422
Wed, Mar 02, 2011, 13:24

OK after the first live show I miss Cowell's criticism a bit. Looks like Randy is forced to take on the critical role because Tyler and JLo are not going to offer enough criticism.

Tonight I liked Casey, Jacob, Paul McDonald, Durbin, Mccreery...the rest were all were OK to mediocre. Jordan Dorsey definitely exits...not sure on the other.

Ref
Donor
ID: 539581218
Wed, Mar 02, 2011, 23:26

Randy is the only one who is "keeping it real." That one girl was awful and Tyler and J-lo said she was fantastic. Gag! Starting to become a fan of Randy.

TBRaiders
ID: 1001623
Sat, Mar 05, 2011, 02:59

I like the judges a lot more this year. I don't need the judges to tell me how terrible a singer is when I don't think they sounded good and likewise I don't need them to ramble on and on about how great someone is. Give a short critique and move on.

I am not a fan of how they got the top 13 this year. Tough break for the 11 folks who were "one and done" with no chance to recover from a poor first performance. At least the folks cut on the last day of Hollywood can try again next year. I'd much rather see two leave a week until they get to a top 10-12 rather than chop half away at once. No chance for them to gather more of a following.

Lauren Turner, one of my two favorite females already went home and that's a shame because she could sing really well. I still like Haley Reinhart, Lauren Alaina, and Pia Toscano. For the guys, Casey Abrams is my favorite and I pretty much like all the ones remaining beside Jacob Lusk. He has a great voice, just not into his style.

For the girls, I would have rather seen Lauren Turner, Kendra Chantelle, Julie Zorrilla, and even Rachel Zevita make it over Naima Adedapo, Thia Megia, Ashthon Jones, and Karen Rodriguez. I know Julie and Rachel didn't have very good performances and even knew they were gone with this format, but under the old format even had they both been voted off this week, I'd still get to see another week of Lauren Turner and Kendra.

Bond, James Bond
Leader
ID: 04352469
Thu, Mar 10, 2011, 08:12

Top 13 score card:
Lauren Alaina......C
Casey Abrams.......B
Ashton Jones.......D
Paul McDonald......F
Pia Toscano........B
James Durbin.......A
Haley Reinhart.....C-
Jacob Lusk.........B-
Thia Megia.........B-
Stefano Langone....C+
Karen Rodriguez....D
Scott McCreery.....B+
Naima Adedapo......B-

Here's hoping against hope that Jones, McDonald and Rodriguez will be in the bottom 3. Hopefully McDonald can go back to his farm but I suspect that since Jones was just a wild-card entry, it'll be adios for her. I'd be okay with that.

TB
Sherpa
ID: 031811922
Thu, Mar 10, 2011, 12:43

Pretty close to my grades for the night. I will paste yours and then...mine.

Lauren Alaina......C...B-
Casey Abrams.......B...B
Ashton Jones.......D...D
Paul McDonald......F...F
Pia Toscano........B...B+
James Durbin.......A...B
Haley Reinhart.....C-...A
Jacob Lusk.........B-...C-
Thia Megia.........B-...C-
Stefano Langone....C+...C
Karen Rodriguez....D ...D
Scott McCreery.....B+...B
Naima Adedapo......B-...C

Probably the biggest difference is Haley Reinhart and I've already admitted she is my favorite female so am biased. I love her range and the fact she didn't try to over-sing the song. She sounded great to me. Overall I enjoyed Lauren, Casey, Pia, James, Haley, and Scotty. Stefano and Naima were okay. Ashton, Paul, and Karen were not good and I just don't care much for Thia or Jacob. No idea on the bottom three, but as long as someone in my top 6 doesn't go home I will be happy.

Ref
Donor
ID: 539581218
Thu, Mar 10, 2011, 13:12

I love how we all see things a little different in some areas though similar in other areas. I'd like to say that these grades are simply for last night though I find myself remembering other performances and that might get them a little better grade perhaps.

Lauren Alaina......C...B-...B+
Casey Abrams.......B...B...A-
Ashton Jones.......D...D...D
Paul McDonald......F...F...D-
Pia Toscano........B...B+...A+
James Durbin.......A...B...B+
Haley Reinhart.....C-...A...B+
Jacob Lusk.........B-...C-...C
Thia Megia.........B-...C-...C
Stefano Langone....C+...C...C
Karen Rodriguez....D ...D...D
Scott McCreery.....B+...B...B
Naima Adedapo......B-...C...C-

I didn't care for McDonald, Jones or Rodriquez at all and Adedapo wasn't impressive either. Her problem was she sang a song that most everyone knows and she was out of breath and it didn't sound good at all. McDonald picked a song that no one knows and he still stunk. With that voice, he needs to pick a song everyone knows and make it his own with his unique voice. Rodriquez had no range and messed up a song she has been singing for years. Jones wasn't good either. Can't believe she had good comments at all. Barry Gordy was overheard saying, you brought me out here for that? ;) My guess is that McDonald goes home but any of these four would be fine because they have zero chance at winning in my mind.

ChicagoTRS
ID: 1550160
Fri, Mar 11, 2011, 00:05

My grades:

Lauren Alaina......C...B-...B+...C+
Casey Abrams.......B...B...A-...B+
Ashton Jones.......D...D...D...D+
Paul McDonald......F...F...D-...C-
Pia Toscano........B...B+...A+...A-
James Durbin.......A...B...B+...A
Haley Reinhart.....C-...A...B+...D+
Jacob Lusk.........B-...C-...C...B
Thia Megia.........B-...C-...C...C
Stefano Langone....C+...C...C...C+
Karen Rodriguez....D ...D...D...D+
Scott McCreery.....B+...B...B...B
Naima Adedapo......B-...C...C-...C+

weykool
ID: 26242134
Sun, Mar 13, 2011, 05:42

Finally got caught up on my Idol viewing.
Top 3 of the night were:
Casey
Pia
Durbin

Bottom 3 for me:
Ashthon
Paul
Jacob

Liked:
Scottie
Lauren
Haley

I do think there is some very good talent this season.
The judges need to step it up and get more critical, otherwise they are going run out of ways to say "That was the best I've ever heard".

TB
ID: 1001623
Wed, Mar 16, 2011, 22:39

I completely disagree with the judges ending comments and think this was one of the worst nights ever, especially with 12 people. If it wasn't pitchy, out of key singing, it was just terrible songs or arrangements or a combination of both.

My scorecard:
Stefano Langone....A
Scott McCreery.....B+
Jacob Lusk.........B
Lauren Alaina......B-
Pia Toscano........C
James Durbin.......C-
Paul McDonald......C-
Thia Megia.........D
Haley Reinhart.....D
Casey Abrams.......D
Karen Rodriguez....F
Naima Adedapo......F

Stefano was great. Scotty sounded as good as he does every week and just how he will sound every remaining week. Jacob I liked more this week and probably has do to with song choice. Great song choice for Lauren as well. She sounded fantastic in a couple places, but she struggled in others.

Pia sounded good, but song was lame. Worst performance so far for James. Paul's voice was in and out and I can't see this guy being able to do a 45 minute show without his voice going out. Thia sounded good, but maybe the most boring song ever. Haley I still love, but she struggled with parts and there is a good chance she just sang herself off the show. I hope Casey has a solid fan base because if that was the first time I ever saw him, I wouldn't care for him. Tell me again how Karen and Naima made it this far in the competition...

Bond, James Bond
Leader
ID: 04352469
Thu, Mar 17, 2011, 01:02

Looks like we differ in quite a few places. My grades:
Stefano Langone....A....A-
Scott McCreery.....B+...A-
Jacob Lusk.........B....C+
Lauren Alaina......B-...C+
Pia Toscano........C....A-
James Durbin.......C-...A
Paul McDonald......C-...F
Thia Megia.........D....A
Haley Reinhart.....D....C-
Casey Abrams.......D....B+
Karen Rodriguez....F....B
Naima Adedapo......F....D

ChicagoTRS
ID: 1740422
Thu, Mar 17, 2011, 10:36

My grades...round of 12:
Stefano Langone....A....A-...A
Scott McCreery.....B+...A-...B+
Jacob Lusk.........B....C+...B+
Lauren Alaina......B-...C+...B
Pia Toscano........C....A-...A-
James Durbin.......C-...A...B-
Paul McDonald......C-...F...D+
Thia Megia.........D....A...C-
Haley Reinhart.....D....C-...C+
Casey Abrams.......D....B+...C
Karen Rodriguez....F....B...C
Naima Adedapo......F....D...D

TB
ID: 1001623
Thu, Mar 17, 2011, 19:13

Looking at Dial Idol, Lauren Alaina, Scotty McCreery, Jacob Lusk, Pia Toscano, and Naima Adedapo are safe. James Durbin, Haley Reinhart, and Thia Megia should be safe, but one of the ways they always seem to get it right is because if any of the bottom seven go home they get to count that as correct.

So that leaves Stefano Langone, Paul McDonald, Casey Abrams, and Karen Rodriguez. It would be criminal for Stefano to go home after his performance last night, but if you don't have the fan base you aren't going to win anyway. I'd hate to see Casey go home on his worst performance after his body of work. I am more than okay with Karen or Paul going home.

GoatLocker
Leader
ID: 060151121
Thu, Mar 17, 2011, 21:42

Heard this earlier today.
It was right last week, we'll just have to see.

Twitter Predicts Bottom 3 and Who is Going Home

weykool
ID: 26242134
Fri, Mar 18, 2011, 01:01

I didnt think there were any outstanding or really bad performances this week.
Overall I still have to agree with the judges that this group is very talented.
Pia's voice is amazing, I always look forward to hearing Casey, and expect something exciting from Durbin.

Thought Stephano was probably the best this week.
Cant stand Nirvana, but still liked Casey.
Is anyone else reminded of the guy from Knocked Up?
Really like Heart but thought Jacob butchered the 2nd half of the song.

Biggest loser of the night.....That stupid judges save.
Get rid of it already.
How in the hell could there be a split vote on Karen?
I liked Karen, but there is zero chance she had the talent or the fan base to make it much further.

Ref
Donor
ID: 539581218
Tue, Mar 22, 2011, 00:15

Naima's turn to go home this week.

Bond, James Bond
Leader
ID: 04352469
Thu, Mar 24, 2011, 01:47

This week's scorecard:
Casey Abrams.....A-
Thia Megia.......B-
Jacob Lusk.......A
Lauren Alaina....B+
Stefano Langone..C
Haley Reinhart...C+
Scotty McCreery..C-
Pia Toscano......A
Paul McDonald....D
Naima Adedapo....B+
James Durbin.....A

No matter how much I've tried, I just can't stand Paul McDonald's "singing". I wish he'd be votred out but alas, that's not gonna happen. I thought Stefano took a big step back this week and we all know Scotty wasn't in his genre. I suspect Idol voters will forgive him. It's looking like Pia/Casey/James are the top 3 this year. For this week, my bottom three picks are: Haley, Naima and Thia with Haley finally getting bounced.

GoatLocker
Leader
ID: 060151121
Thu, Mar 24, 2011, 11:26

OK, not going to do the Link to the Twitter numbers this time, will just post them.

Twitter followers are listed highest to lowest:

Scotty McCreery = 41,956 (last week = 32,336)
Casey Abrams = 39,409 (last week = 32,696)
Paul McDonald = 34,092 (last week = 26,752)
Lauren Alaina = 29,855 (last week =23,065)
Pia Toscano = 29,147 (last week = 22,197)
Thia Megia = 28,276 (last week = 22,419)
James Durbin = 27,194 (last week = 21,037)
Stefano Langone = 25,891 (last week = 19,202)
Jacob Lusk = 16,908 (last week = 13,164)
Haley Reinhart = 15,538 (last week = 11,513)
Naima Adedapo = 13,012 (last week = 10,468)

So, based on this, the bottom three tonite will be Naima, Haley, and Jacob.

I'm guessing it will be Naima or Haley.
Not sure Naima did enough to save herself.

ChicagoTRS
ID: 1550160
Thu, Mar 24, 2011, 22:48

Little bit of surprising vote this week...dial idol had it pretty spot on with Casey being at the bottom. Twitter not so much. None of the predictor sites have been that solid this season.

weykool
ID: 15240251
Fri, Mar 25, 2011, 02:40

It's looking like Pia/Casey/James are the top 3 this year.
I concur 100%.
I look forward to hearing these 3 each week.

My bottom 3 were Thia, Jason, and Haley.

I agreed with the judges using the save here.
The good news is the save has been used...let the voters decide going forward.

On the judging front:
Jennifer has really stepped up her critique.....always giving a good balance of compliments and things they need to work on to be better to take it up a notch.
Tyler has been extremely disappointing...they cant all be fantastic unless your name is Paula.
He has become a male version of Paula without the meds.

Bond, James Bond
Leader
ID: 04352469
Thu, Mar 31, 2011, 00:31

This week's grades:
Scotty.......A
Naima........D
Paul.........D
Pia..........A
Stefano......B
Lauren.......C
James........A
Thia.........C
Casey........B
Jacob........A
Haley........B

Predicting that Naima, Stefano and Thia are in the bottom three with Naima and Thia sent packing.

Ref
Donor
ID: 539581218
Thu, Mar 31, 2011, 09:45

This was the best week yet. Still Paul just isn't getting it for me. Pia has been the best singer week in and week out.

This week's grades:
Scotty.......A...B
Naima........D...D+
Paul.........D...D
Pia..........A...A+
Stefano......B...B-
Lauren.......C...B
James........A...A
Thia.........C...B-
Casey........B...A-
Jacob........A...B
Haley........B...A-

If it were up to me, Paul and Naima would be going home this week. Thia and Stefano should be suspect. The only other person who might be suspect is Lauren but she is still better than the four mentioned. I think America is probably tired of voting for Paul, but Naima has a following so not sure they will stop voting for her. Maybe Stefano goes with him?

katietx
ID: 301121518
Thu, Mar 31, 2011, 13:33

I'd like to see Naima go for sure. This week the fake Jamacian accent just didn't cut it for me. Thia or Paul (whom I really like) could be on the cusp.

ChicagoTRS
ID: 1740422
Thu, Mar 31, 2011, 18:00

This week's grades:
Scotty.......A...B...B-
Naima........D...D+...D
Paul.........D...D...B-
Pia..........A...A+...A-
Stefano......B...B-...C+
Lauren.......C...B...B
James........A...A...C+
Thia.........C...B-...C
Casey........B...A-...A
Jacob........A...B...A-
Haley........B...A-...C

Bottom 3...Naima (def going home)...really not sure on the other two but I will go: Stefano, Paul or Thia...

I really did not like Haley nearly as much as the judges gushed on her. I think she would probably be in a lot more danger if they did not give her the pimp spot last night. I thought James was very corny last night...def did not get the rock vibe others seemed to get.

Kind of missing Simon...need a bit more critical take on some of these contestants.

Ref
Donor
ID: 539581218
Fri, Apr 01, 2011, 09:40

Haley's not going to win by any stretch, but I really liked the way she got down and dirty and also lightened it up in the same phrase. All in tune. That isn't easy to do and she did it well. She may never match that performance again, but she is better than others who are still left. Thia never did it for me, but she had her best performance as well. Paul should be going soon and likely Stefano too.

weykool
ID: 138481617
Fri, Apr 01, 2011, 18:11

Pia and James D. continue to have the best performances each week and should be the final two.
James needs to lose the tail though.
Scotty will do well with in a country music career.
I liked Naima's performance this week and thought her background story was something that could have taken her further in the competition, but the talent level just wasnt there.
The rest of them I cant see having a big music career.
Im sure most of them will put out an album or two but I know I would never pay to go see them in concert.
They are good singers but not great.
The judges keep trying to convince us they are all "amazing" and we are hearing the best performances ever......but like TRS, I wish Simon was there to give everyone a more accurate assesment of the talent.

TB
ID: 1001623
Mon, Apr 04, 2011, 13:55

I thought most singers were really good last week. For those of you not loving on Haley, I think you're crazy. She won't win this, but I dig everything she can do with her voice. I swear when the camera panned to J-Lo and she was funking with the beat, I was doing the same thing. I've rewatched Haley a couple times and think it's one of the better performances I've seen. I close my eyes and listen to the ones I like and think Casey and Lauren were great too.

My favorites from best to worst for the rest of this competition:
Haley Reinhart
Casey Abrams
Lauren Alaina
Pia Toscano
Scotty McCreery
James Durbin
Stefano Langone
Jacob Lusk
Paul McDonald

With that said, I am guessing Scotty beats Pia in the finals, with Casey as a darkhorse. Little worried about him having to be saved being able to make it to the finals.

Paul, Jacob, and Stefano leaving the next three weeks would be perfect for me. James I like a lot as a person. Maybe he needs to do a rock ballad and not try to rely on screaming for me to like him more. Scotty should have a great country career, but I'm already tired of hearing him get away with singing basically the same song every week. Yeah, I know it's different songs but like Pia they stay within the same boundries each week and I see zero risk. Haley, Casey, and Lauren have all three taken risks, sang fast paced songs, balads, and even different genres of music. I appreciate their diversity and talent level.

Skidazl
ID: 56327417
Mon, Apr 04, 2011, 18:28

TB, totally agree with you about Haley, she is actually my favorite, but unfortunately I don't see her winning either.

I like Scotty also, but you have to like country to be a fan, I think, leaving Pia beating him in the finals.

Bond, James Bond
Leader
ID: 04352469
Thu, Apr 07, 2011, 01:14

This week's grades:
Jacob.......B
Haley.......B
Casey.......A
Lauren......B
James.......A
Pia.........C
Scotty......C
Stefano.....C
Paul........D

I so wish Paul would leave this competition right now. Not really sure how the fan club strength is for each contestant, so we may have a couple of surprises in the bottom 3 this week:
Here's hoping it's Paul, Stefano and Haley.

weykool
ID: 634972
Thu, Apr 07, 2011, 03:49

I enjoyed Scottie the best this week.
Other than Paul the rest were pretty much decent but not spectacular.
As for Paul how can you take Folsum prison and put a happy tune to it????
I'm stuck in Folsum Prison....yeehaw.
Just horrible.
You get the money slot and totally blow it.
Bottom 3:
Casey
Paul
Lauren
With Paul going home.

TB
ID: 1001623
Thu, Apr 07, 2011, 04:13

So Scotty and Pia heard the pleas for diversity and I wasn't impressed by either. Scotty looked corny trying to sing Elvis and Pia oversang most of her song. I did like the part near the end where she walked behind the judges and sang, that sounded good, but the rest not so much. While I enjoyed most of tonight's show and have a hard time guessing who would be bottom three besides Paul, I've decided to do the harsher reviews today.

Jacob started off the show and like most weeks, I picture him singing in a big Baptist church with a choir behind him. Amen for the song choice, because it's a great song and he sang it as well as he normally does, but I'm not into Gospel music and that's what he is going to produce. It sounded like a challenge from him at the begining that if we don't vote for him it's not because he doesn't sing well (or something). I'm calling bottom three.

Haley is next and I could hear Simon saying, "It literally (pronounced: litrealee) sounded like screeching." I like Haley and there were parts I liked, but it wasn't fantastic. My goodness, someone hire a dance or movement coordinator and help these kids work on stage presence. The way she moves and waves her arms I wonder if there should be a poll up on the stage.

Casey sounded good. Wasn't as good as Hollywood week when he busted out the bass, but I loved the song choice and enjoyed his singing. I am interested in hearing what music he comes out with after Idol.

Lauren forgot to get a second opinion on hair, make-up, and outfit. Good thing it's a singing competition, though. Wasn't as good as last week, but should be enough to keep her around another week.

Out of all the great songs to choose from, I thought James choice was bizarre. He also just had to add the Lambert scream near the end of the song, which made it even worse for me. The ballad part of the song wasn't moving. It was a combination of bland and terrible.

Stefano has peaked for me. Good song for him and sounded fine, but I only rate him above Paul and Jacob. I can see him doing daytime soap operas or maybe Broadway.

Paul was terrible. I didn't enjoy any of the singing, the song, or his wild performance. Bottom three again.

If I was grading just tonight comparing each of the contestants against each other:
Jacob.......B...C
Haley.......B...C
Casey.......A...B
Lauren......B...B
James.......A...F
Pia.........C...D
Scotty......C...D
Stefano.....C...C
Paul........D...F

ChicagoTRS
ID: 1740422
Thu, Apr 07, 2011, 11:25

Jacob.......B...C...A-
Haley.......B...C...C+
Casey.......A...B...B
Lauren......B...B...B
James.......A...F...A-
Pia.........C...D...C
Scotty......C...D...C+
Stefano.....C...C...C+
Paul........D...F...D

TB
ID: 1001623
Thu, Apr 07, 2011, 21:15

I will miss looking at Pia each week. American Idol Sausage Fest - not so great.

JeffG
ID: 47112621
Thu, Apr 07, 2011, 21:59

I was a big Pia fan. Sorry to see her go. My NY bias was hoping she'd at least be the last female standing. Kept hoping she'd break out some more upbeat stuff and Jennifer gave her real good advice after her song about focusing on growing and learning how to perform better. Too bad. Now a guy will definitely win this.

Bond, James Bond
Leader
ID: 04352469
Fri, Apr 08, 2011, 00:30

Biggest surprise on Idol since the week they let Daughtry go. However upset the judges seemed to be, they certainly haven't been good at giving hardly any constructive criticism this year and therefore, must accept part of the blame here. Tyler loves everybody; Dawg is and has always been Dawg and Lopez rants on and on and on without much advice.

At least with Simon, we knew where he stood with most contestants---the ones he loved, the ones he didn't, etc. And frankly, America's choice is whomever the 7 to 11 year girls say it is! They are probably the ones going crazy with all the texting and undoubtedly will choose a man/boy to win. Wouldn't surprise me now to see a Scottie-Stefano finale. I think we're going to be looking at the worst final twosome in Idol history...and that's saying something. Ugh!

TB
ID: 1001623
Fri, Apr 08, 2011, 02:09

That's a bit premature. If Jacob, Stefano, or Paul make it to the finals then I will agree with you, but any of the other five would be a good finals.

weykool
ID: 7348811
Fri, Apr 08, 2011, 12:48

So far it has been 5 females sent home.
The judges did use the save on Casey.
I wonder if the judges could get a do over if they would have rather have used the save on Pia.
Pia was easily the best singer.
It seems there is something wrong with the voting system.
Oh well.....maybe the X Factor will restore some credibility to the reality/talent competitions.

Bond, James Bond
Leader
ID: 04352469
Fri, Apr 08, 2011, 13:56

43....Undoubtedly there IS something wrong about the voting system but for now, it is what it is. Every year somebody who can sing gets bumped in favor of somebody who isn't as an accomplished singer. We all know that this isn't a true "singing contest"; it's a popularity contest disguised as a singing contest.

Yes, I'm sure the judges most likely wished they could have saved their save instead of using it on Casey but nobody thought Pia wouldn't be in the top 3 or so. Nobody.

And that leads back to what I said in 41....the judges, quite simply, have to judge better and let America know who they really like and offer fair critique to every contestant. But they don't. As such, America has to judge and although we get it right the majority of the time, Thursday's outing showed that this wasn't one of those times.

It's a young girls voting system right now and as such, this year's ladies have no chance to win Idol. None.

TB
ID: 1001623
Fri, Apr 08, 2011, 18:14

I've heard that argument and then I wonder how Kelly, Carrie, Fantasia, and Jordin all won or how Bowersox, McPhee, and DeGarmo made the finals. I'm thinking this show has always been and will always be dominated by female voters, but if it truly was only young girls voting for heart-throb boys, how does Taylor Hicks or David Cook win idol?

Pia was the most technical singer on the show and the least expressive. While I enjoyed listening to her, the truth is she was pretty boring and I can't imagine her ever putting out an album that would wow anyone or going to see her in concert and actually be entertained. I'm sad to see her go already, while there are other singers I don't enjoy as much still on the show, but this happens every season...heck, every week. Thousands of people swear they are going to quit watching the show when their favorite gets voted off every week.

ChicagoTRS
ID: 1550160
Fri, Apr 08, 2011, 23:25

It does not surprise me Pia got eliminated...it surprises me it was this early but I do not see what fan base she appeals to except the horny male vote which is probably a minority. Have you ever voted?

She is a beautiful singer but too robotic and precise...not enough emotion or connection in her performances.

This is a very tough season. Everyone of them can sing...think about past seasons top tens and how many god awful singers made it that far. It does not help that the judges pretty much praise every one.

Ref
Donor
ID: 539581218
Fri, Apr 08, 2011, 23:30

There are a lot of good singers this year and Pia was the best. She was not only technically the best but she has big and full voice with range. I think she could sing about anything well. It was too early to say whether or not I think she should still win it when it got down to the final two, but through this week, I still had her as the one to beat. In past years there were so many people who couldn't cut it, that it seemed to be a lot easier. I wouldn't even been as miffed if people like Paul were already gone. No way should he still be there, IMO.

These are not judges, they are making their $7M+ (a lot more for Randy) to be famous and make comments to give the show some supposed credibility. You could take a music professor and pay them a lot less who would know a lot more and be more critical I think.

Bond, James Bond
Leader
ID: 04352469
Sat, Apr 09, 2011, 12:51

45, 46 and 47....agree with your thoughts completely. But now that Pia is gone, what are the chances of the rest of the 8? Here's I look at it:

I don't see any way, form or fashion that Haley or Lauren win it since they're the only girls left. Wouldn't be surprised to see them both bounced in the next two weeks. That leaves 6.

Paul? Ugh, no thanks. Stefano? Has been in the bottom three too much already, so I suspect he doesn't have a rabid fan base. That's leaves 4.

Casey and Jacob have already been in the bottom 3 and Jacob's recent remarks regarding looking in the mirror may come back to haunt him. Casey may surprise as I suspect his fan club may have re-established themselves. Nevertheless, if he makes it to the top 3, I'd be surprised.

That leaves James and Scotty as the final two standing. Two extreme spectrums of the Idol rainbow. Two diverse voices with two diverse genres. Everybody knows Scotty's going country and he may do very well there. But is he "the" American Idol? James has overcome a lot in his life; has a very decent sound even if he is the poor man's Adam Lambert. But will America endear him as their American Idol? Right now, I'd say yes. IMO, James is the favorite to win it all.

What do ya'll think?

Ref
Donor
ID: 539581218
Mon, Apr 11, 2011, 22:08

48: There are several really good singers but Pia was the only one I thought was "Idol Worthy." Not sure that means what it used to mean. I heard Pia was signed with Interscope immediately after she got booted. Since Interscope runs Idol and they are supposedly rushing her to get an album out--she will be the first one out and she came in 9th place. You don't have to win Idol to win Idol! ;)

I don't really care for the other two women at all. Doesn't matter that women aren't getting the votes. They can sing, obviously, but they aren't better than the women. I agree that it probably comes down to James and Casey at this point. I think Casey is better technically than "the poor man's Adam Lambert," so I guess I'll say he's got a slight edge at this point.

TB
ID: 1001623
Wed, Apr 13, 2011, 19:14

I actually like Haley and Lauren better than I ever liked Pia. Haley has Bluesy-Rock sound and Lauren has a Country-Rock sound. Pia has a oversing-every-balad sound. We seen a Pia on this show (at least one) every single season.

Skidazl
ID: 56327417
Wed, Apr 13, 2011, 20:06

My wife confirmed why Pia did not get the votes, when she said she was not that surprised, most likely only the men were voting for her.

TB, I agree with you, Pias are a dime a dozen, sort of. Haley, imo, really stands out with her deep bluesy sound and is my personal favorite. I have to admit, to me Lauren is just another Kerry Underwood, but without the "whole package"

Bond, James Bond
Leader
ID: 04352469
Thu, Apr 14, 2011, 01:20

This week's scorecard:

Paul...........D
Lauren.........B
Scotty.........B
Stefano........B
Casey..........C
Haley..........D
Jacob..........B
James..........A

Don't like Paul; never have, never will. Scotty is as consistent as anybody's been. Casey is a wild card, with the emphasis on wild. Didn't care for the song...not my cup of tea. Haley does nothing for me. All night, Jacob looked like somebody stole his lunch money; I still don't care for his runs but the last few notes were pretty darn good. James not listening to that arrogant producer...good! But I'm not much into heavy metal so what do I know. LOL

weykool
ID: 343561414
Thu, Apr 14, 2011, 16:01

Perhaps it was missing Pia this week but I was less than impressed with all of the performances.

When they suggested Bridge Over Trouble water for Jacob I was thinking he could hit that song out of the park.....but it fell far short.

Haley had good moments with Call Me but other parts were really lacking.

Paul sauntering around like is getting to be unbearable to watch.

Scottie and Lauren were OK but nothing that will be remembered.

I didnt get the song choice from Casey.
Will there be that many people lining up to see a concert of someone playing a standup bass?

Stephano was typical Stephano.
Trying desperately to oversing the lyrics and make a conection with the audience.

Not sure what to make of James.
Not really a heavy metal fan but I could see him selling out a tour.
The screaming is really getting overdone and needs to be toned down a lot.

As for the judges it keeps getting worse.
Stop telling us these are amazing performances.
Some were OK but others were downright horrible.
When they tell us crap is good it makes me question if the decent performances are not crap as well.

Hoping its Paul's turn to go home this week.

TB
ID: 1001623
Thu, Apr 14, 2011, 19:26

I am ranking them in the order from liked most to disliked:

Haley
Stefano
Lauren
Scotty
Casey
James
Jacob
Paul

Funny that the only contestant to get any kind of criticism is a female, but they don't want to lose any females. Haley sounded great to me again and I could see myself listening to her music post-Idol.

Stefano had one of his best performances to date and has progressed more than most of the contestants this season. His stage mannerism is so much better and while I do agree that he tends to over-sing most of the song a bit, he still did a great job.

Lauren sounded great. Amazes me that I seem to like her so much more than most other people here. I do lean towards female singers who have range and I think she can sing just about any song.

Scotty was as good as every other performance. Paste in any previous comments...yawn.

I am a Casey fan and think if he ever has a concert, somewhere near the middle of it he can slow it down and perform a number like that, but bad choice for Idol. I thought it was a cool rendition of the song, but I am seriously concerned with the vote tonight and him sticky around.

If I could give James bonus points for singing a song I loved growing up and having the greatest Idol moment ever (for me) when Zakk Wylde showed up, I would. BUT, he mostly just screeched the song in a performance that wouldn't be good enough to hit the radar during the hair band era. Hair metal is dead. RIP.

Jacob and Paul you could copy and paste most of my past comments. Both were terrible. I'm thinking Paul bottom three for sure and hopefully going home.

Bond, James Bond
Leader
ID: 04352469
Thu, Apr 14, 2011, 23:59

Paul is FINALLY gone! WooHoo!!!!!!!!

ChicagoTRS
ID: 1740422
Fri, Apr 15, 2011, 15:46

Figured it was Paul's time to go. He did well to make it this far. Probably got enough exposure to make a legitimate career. I think he is the kind of singer that if he sticks to his niche he will excel.

This season is just much more talented than past seasons...I could see any of these 7 (+Pia) having made the finals any other season.

Bond, James Bond
Leader
ID: 04352469
Thu, Apr 21, 2011, 01:38

Idol score card:
Scotty---B
James----A
Haley----B
Jacob----C
Casey----A
Stefano--D
Lauren---C

Hoping that Jacob, Stefano and Lauren are in the bottom 3 with Stefano finally being voted off.

katietx
ID: 301121518
Thu, Apr 21, 2011, 18:04

Only one that really wowed me last night was Casey. I still love Jacob, but unfortunately don't think America will vote him to the final two like they did Reuben.

weykool
ID: 343561414
Thu, Apr 21, 2011, 20:53

Katie:
Are you saying America wont vote for Jacob because he is black...or that they wont vote for him because he isnt the best singer?
3 of the 9 winners have been African American so that cant be it.

Skidazl
ID: 56327417
Sun, Apr 24, 2011, 13:21

About time, now just get rid of Jacob and I ill be happy with all the remaining contestants, with Haley topping the list, but most likely not going to win it...

Rumor has it that Casey and Haley are seeing each other(Caseys reaction to her being safe this week sort of confirmed it), I wonder how a Haley/Casey finals would affect that...

weykool
ID: 343561414
Thu, Apr 28, 2011, 13:20

Best song of the night for me was James.
Worst song of the night was the screaming match between James and Jacob.

Bond, James Bond
Leader
ID: 04352469
Thu, May 05, 2011, 00:36

Last night's results:
1. James
2. Scottie
3. Alaina
4. Haley
5. Jacob

Strangely enough, I hope that this is also the season top 5 results. James deserves to win!

weykool
ID: 343561414
Thu, May 05, 2011, 13:13

Seems like the air has been let out of the show ever since Pia was voted out.
I could chalk this up to my own bias but the post/interest here has declined as well.
It is getting a little annoying to see the contestants buying all of the judge's hype for them.
They are all good singers.....but I dont see any great singers in the bunch.

I liked James and Haley last night.
Hoping Jacob goes home tonight....he is such a diva.

Ref
Donor
ID: 539581218
Thu, May 05, 2011, 13:56

63 agreed

Haley had the best song of the night. That last song was superb. Jacob was just bad.

TB
ID: 1001623
Thu, May 05, 2011, 18:25

I liked Scotty and Haley last night. Haley is still my favorite, but Scotty continues to grow on me. Lauren was okay. James first song was terrible. Pitchy, screechy, just terrible. His second song was better until the end, where he had to yell some more. Jacob should have went home weeks ago.

I concur with the waning interest in this season. For me, it's not because Pia went and not even because Casey went home last week, who I did look forward to watching weekly. It's because I hear the same bs from the judges each week and the performers almost all do the same thing every week. James, Haley, and Casey have brought something new here and there but not enough to make the show that interesting.

Anyone else been watching The Voice?

weykool
ID: 343561414
Thu, May 05, 2011, 19:18

Watching some of The Voice.
The gimmick is interesting but now that the "blind auditions" are over where do they go now?

Bond, James Bond
Leader
ID: 04352469
Fri, May 06, 2011, 00:42

Yeah, The Voice started off nicely and had a solid premise but then they "ran out of singers"? Really? That's idiotic! Apparently, TPTB's didn't allow for the fact that all the "coaches" (their word, not mine) wouldn't field a team of eight before all the auditions were over. How absurd! Having to allow for second chances really diminishes this show for my liking.

TB
ID: 1001623
Wed, May 11, 2011, 01:47

I just like to see people sing, so enjoy it. I don't care much for listening to Christine A. talk and found myself doing a lot of fast forwarding tonight, but did enjoy the performances. I'm a little disappointed in Blake's choice tonight. I'm guessing next season, any non-country singer is going to think twice before picking him if they have a choice. The country guy is okay, but I thought the other guy outsang him by a wide margin.

Skidazl
ID: 264181116
Wed, May 11, 2011, 17:18

TB, totally agree about Blake's decision and I pretty much FF through everything but the performances and CA cleavage...LOL

Definitely felt Ceelo had the toughest decision...

TB
ID: 1001623
Wed, May 11, 2011, 23:38

Ceelo had the toughest choice and I thought CA had the easiest...send them both home...lol, but seriously the one girl who did go home was terrible.

Back to Idol chat - I thought Haley's first song was amazing and her second unbelievable. I can't believe the crap both J-lo and Randy gave her and I don't believe the spin they tried after the 2nd song. I'd almost think I am tone deaf and missing what they are hearing, but the crowd cheered pretty good and most of the music I listen to seems to be liked by many other people.

There are parts of James singing I enjoy and then there are more parts I don't. I absolutely can't imagine him putting out an album that will sell. Seems like a crowd favorite and great chance to make the finals.

Lauren has very nice parts about her voice, but I didn't think we heard them that much tonight. Felt flat on the Martina song and a little spazzy on the Elvis song. She will be going home and I will call it the Elvis Curse on the top four.

Scotty - you probably already know what I am going to say because I absolutely knew what kind of song he was going to sing and how it was going to sound. He still comes off corny to me when he isn't singing a country ballad and making love to my television with his eyebrows. Darkhorse for going home for offending Gaga fans.

Bond, James Bond
Leader
ID: 04352469
Thu, May 12, 2011, 01:39

The problem as I see it with Haley's first song is that it wasn't that well known (at least to me anyway). She sang it well but I don't suspect many people had a connection to it since they are unfamiliar with it. Even though it was inspiring to her, it wasn't to me. Yes, the judges were a tad bit harsh but I applaud them for that. I think that Randy and Jennifer were right. (And I no longer care what Steven's comments are. His comments are simply a complete waste of time on anybody....All he says is that everybody is beautiful, every song is sung beautifully, every arrangement was beautiful, etc. ad nauseum Not one helpful critique has he made this year---not one!) Meanwhile, Haley's last song, though, was downright nasty....in a good way. However, I think she's definitely in the bottom two this week.

James was okay. We know what he is and he'll be safe. He's Randy's Crowned King for this year and I think his comments lend a greater weight than either JLo's or Tyler's.

Scotty is country-born, country-bred and a sure footed country star. Yes, he gets a little overboard with his facial expressions but his voice is solid---as is his huge fan support. I don't think anybody expected him and Gaga to see eye to eye so his comments are pretty harmless. Besides, if anything, it was Scotty fans that Gaga offended, not the other way around.

Lauren was good, although not spectacular. But since I don't see either James or Scotty in trouble this week, it'll be the two ladies in the bottom two.

Though I could be wrong, I can't believe that Haley has anywhere near a fanbase as Lauren has. As such, I think that Haley is toast!

weykool
ID: 14471123
Thu, May 12, 2011, 02:20

I thought James was great for the first song but could have done without the screaming on the 2nd.

Haley was much better than the judges gave her credit.

Scotty was not as good as the judges seemed to think.

Lauren was off her game and really had 2 sub-par performances.

Grades:
James A-
Haley B+
Scotty B+
Lauren C+
Judges D-

I cant help but wondering if Randy keeps saying "In it to win it" just to hedge his bets if Idol gets canceled.
I would be very easy for him to put together an audition tape for the game show on NBC Minute to win it.

Skidazl
ID: 264181116
Thu, May 12, 2011, 11:50

HAHA on the minute to win it comment, good call...

Randy is an idiot, imo. How do you rip all over someone for song choice when that is the song that inspires them. Yeah, she could have picked a more mainstream song more people knew, but it was Michael Jackson and he has probably the biggest fanbase ever, so to me, just because I didn't know that song doesn't millions and millions of other people didn't...

Is it me or is Haley the only person J-ho ever says negative comments about? What is up with that?

And worst of all, what the heck did gaga do to her cheeks? Freak!

Bond, James Bond
Leader
ID: 04352469
Fri, May 13, 2011, 00:15

James is out??? First Pia, now this....ugh! Unbelievable that Durbin ends up in 4th place. 4th place! Guess America sees it different than I do.

But Jordin sure looked good didn't she? ;>)

Skidazl
ID: 264181116
Fri, May 13, 2011, 00:27

Agreed about Jordin...

Also agreed with America, just judging by last night's performances. I personally thought James was the worst last night. Nobody, except some little short guy from the philippines, can do Steve Perry justice, imo

Bond, James Bond
Leader
ID: 04352469
Fri, May 13, 2011, 23:56

William Hung?.... ; > )

Skidazl
ID: 264181116
Sat, May 14, 2011, 00:16

hahaha, good one Mr. Bond...

TB
ID: 1001623
Tue, May 17, 2011, 19:17

I thought I posted last week after results, but guess not. When Lauren was safe, I thought for sure Haley was going home. When Haley was announced safe, you could tell by the look on his face that James knew he was gone.

Scotty is going to win this.

And, I agree about Jordin.

weykool
ID: 343561414
Thu, May 19, 2011, 14:40

As far as who was best by round I agreed with J-LO and Randy.
Rd1. Haley
Rd2. Scottie
Rd3. Lauren

Overall I would have to give the night to Haley.
Scottie and Lauren both had one song that wasnt that good. (Lauren's 1st and Scottie's Last)
Haley was solid on all 3 songs.
Hoping it is Lauren going home tonight.

Skidazl
ID: 264181116
Thu, May 19, 2011, 18:52

I felt that Jimmy's and the judge's song choices for Scotty and Lauren favored Lauren too much. both songs were not a stretch for her and were very easy and safe, imo. both fit into her registry to a T, so neither song pushed her...

Scotty's last 2 songs were not a good fit. The first was originally sung by a girl(???) and his second was very boring, imo. Yet, I still think he moves on. He is the only one of the 3 that will sell a bunch of albums.

But, Haley won the night hands down. Let's just hope the public gets it right. Lauren should be going home, even if Scotyy did get saboutaged a bit, imho. Haley may come out of the blue and surprise everybody next week, assuming she doesn't get railroaded tonight...

weykool
ID: 444231621
Fri, May 20, 2011, 00:10

Lauren in the finals....UGH.
As bad as Taylor Hicks?
If not a close 2nd.
Scottie will do well in Nashville.

TB
ID: 1001623
Fri, May 20, 2011, 00:43

I give all those kids an A for yesterday's performance. Everyone of them is deserving and would be a great idol. I am still positive Scotty wins it all, but more because of his fan base.

My girl, Haley. Led Zeppelin, Stevie Nicks, and then Alanis Morissette. Nobody has ever has a night like she had and nobody will ever convince me there's been a better one-night idol performance than what she had last night. A little sad to see her not make the finals, but I never expected to see her make this far anyway. I own some Carrie and some Kelly and some Daughtry. The next idol whose music I buy will for sure be some Haley.

Skidazl
ID: 264181116
Fri, May 20, 2011, 01:22

WOW!!!

I call shenanigans...

Lauren, really? There is no way Scotty doesn't take this, so no need to watch. I guess I now have no plans next Tuesday or Wednesday, may as well take in a couple angels games...

Weak...

weykool
ID: 444231621
Fri, May 20, 2011, 06:58

may as well take in a couple angels games...
Home games?
Whereabouts do you live?
I'm about 30 mins from the big A.

Skidazl
ID: 264181116
Fri, May 20, 2011, 15:10

Brea, season tickets actually. You?

GoatLocker
Leader
ID: 060151121
Fri, May 20, 2011, 15:14

I'm in Camarillo, 1-1/2 depending on Traffic.

weykool
ID: 343561414
Fri, May 20, 2011, 15:57

Lake Forest, work in Santa Ana.
Been a long time Angel fan.
Fregosi, Sandy Alomar Sr, Bobby Bonds, Clyde Wright, Alex Johnson, Nolan and Tanana.
I still have fond memories of listening to Dick Endberg on my transistor radio saying OH MY! and my favorite after the occasional win: "And the halo will shine tonight!!!!".
Let me know if you cant make a game and want to sell your tickets.

Skidazl
ID: 264181116
Fri, May 20, 2011, 16:14

Let me know if you want to go to a game with another baseball fanatic.There are a lot of games my wife can't go to and I need to fill that other seat. :-)

Just FYI, they are section 418, row B...

weykool
ID: 343561414
Fri, May 20, 2011, 16:24

I would be up for that.
E-mail me and we can exchange numbers.

weykool
ID: 343561414
Thu, May 26, 2011, 13:11

Ho-hum Scotty wins.
Overall the finale was a bit of a yawner.
Will be interesting to see if either of them will be able to sustain anything beyond a 1st album.
Currently I wouldnt buy an album or go to a concert, but they are both very young and could develop if they get in with the right people.

Was nice of Idol to put together the audition tape for Randy's next show: Minute to Win it.

Perm Dude
ID: 5510572522
Thu, May 26, 2011, 13:40

Caught this last night on Jimmy Kimmel: How many Idol winners can you name?

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Subject: American Idol 2011