Two Finalists Compete

Nokia Theatre, live from Los Angeles, 7 thousand fans in the house. Both finalists are from the Chicago auditions and both are 24.

Each contestant will sing three songs: first will be the contestant's personal favorite from this season; second, a track chosen by the show's producer, Simon Fuller; and last will be the song they'll release IF they win.

We walked down memory lane with Lee, then he sang "The Boxer". He sounded good, although I thought the sound was off; too much of the background track was drowning out his vocals. It was classic Lee, but there was no heart to it.

We took a walk down memory lane with Crystal, then she sang "Me and Bobby McGee". Again, classic Crystal, but not a lot of heart.

Lee sang "Everybody Hurts" next. I didn't know the girls from "Deal or No Deal" could sing, but it looked like they were the backup singers. Again, Lee, and a smidgen more heart, but it left me wanting more.

Crystal sang "Black Velvet". I agree with Simon; I'm almost allergic to that song, too. It was okay, but so far this show doesn't feel like the final competition.

If Lee wins, he'll release his version of "Beautiful Day". Really?? Lee, you write your own music. Couldn't you have chosen an original or even an older song or even some obscure song?? He sang it well, and there was a little fire in his belly, but still not what I had hoped for. If he doesn't win, I blame Kara for putting a negative slant on Lee with her comments.

Crystal closed the show with the song she'll release if she wins: "Up to the Mountain". Finally, we see some real desire to win, some real emotion (for only the second time) from this talented girl who has the power to move people but who is so guarded. She got me. That was her moment.

I'm hoping she won over all the little Casey girl-fans who might have voted for Lee. Because, as much as Lee talks about wanting to win, he didn't perform like he wanted to win.

He'll still make music, and he'll have a music career, but Crystal deserves to win this contest.

One of Three Voted Off

Last night's show featured entertainment from Justin Beiber and Travis Garland (who I had never heard of before last night).

Ryan informed us that 47 million votes had been received. Again, obscene. He then sat down with the Final 3 and talked a little with them about how their life is different now from before they auditioned.

This week's Ford Music Video was to "Wild One (Real Wild Child)". Please make a Ford video that's entertaining --- it can't be that hard.

First, we went to Cool, Texas with Casey. Although he was definitely thrilled and a little taken aback at all the hoopla, he was oddly stoic and not emotional at all. That's a first --- even the most "in control" contestants in past seasons has gotten emotional during their hometown visits.

Next, Travis Garland, who was apparently discovered by Perez Hilton, sang "Believe". This is the first guest performance that I've listened to all the way through. I liked this kid's vocals, I liked the Taiko-type drumming and I thought the dancing was innovative and creative.

Next we visited northern Ohio (apparently the armpit of the nation) with Crystal. I expected Crystal to be guarded during her visit, and she seemed to ward off any emotional reactions with humor, but she did break down during her conversation onstage with Ryan. I think being able to go back to this very depressed (and depressing) area and bring a little sunshine was a real honor for her.

Last, we visited Chicago with Lee. After watching him during his hometown visit, I'm really pulling for him to win. He was humbled and visibly emotional during his trip home.

Justin Beiber performed "You Smile" and "Baby". Again, shockingly, I listened to the entire performance. This kid's bubblegum appearance has detracted from his really different, interesting vocals. I'm hoping he'll be able to transition into adult music as he gets older. He ended his second song by jumping in and replacing his drummer. So, he doesn't just sing, he has other talents.

Ryan then brought Lee, Crystal and Casey onstage and quickly let Lee know that he was safe, then almost as quickly let Crystal know she would also participate in the finals.

Casey was sent home. I think he knows he'll be okay and will make just as many records as he would have had he continued on in the competition.

So, now I've switched my allegiance to Lee, and let me tell you why. Crystal will be fine. She would be fine if she did nothing but go back to Ohio, because she's already doing her thing with music albeit on a small scale.

Lee, however, needs this and wants this in such a big way now. So, my vote goes to Lee to win it.

Three Finalists Compete

Having been off work for the past six weeks, I have totally lost track of what day it is. . . and now that I have just one day left before I go back, I've been running around, madly trying to finish all the projects I started so I can feel like I was actually productive. . . which is why I'm just posting my blog about last night's performance show.

As always, I recorded tonight's show, and will watch as soon as I've posted this. I've managed to avoid all internet "spoilers" as to what actually happened tonight, so my prediction (below) is without knowledge of what has already happened.

So, while panning the audience at the beginning of the show, I spotted Colin Hanks and his co-star (who were introduced later in the show). Evidently they were there to promote their new show. I could have sworn that Candace Bergen (Murphy Brown) was also in the audience. Did anyone else see her or was I just imagining things?

Ryan announced that the finals will be held in the Nokia Theatre (we care?).

Casey, Crystal and Lee are our Final Three. They each sang two songs; one that was chosen by them, and one chosen by one or more of the judges.

Casey's choice was "Okay, It's Alright With Me". I agreed with Randy --- it was okay.

Crystal's personal selection was "Come to My Window". It was a predictable song choice, and another solid performance, but nothing that we haven't heard from her before.

Lee's choice for himself was "Simple Man". I personally have never heard this song, but I thought it was a great choice for him and another "classic Lee" performance, although again, nothing we haven't heard from him before.

Casey was shown in Texas at the A.T.& T. store getting a text message from Randy and Kara telling him that they chose "Daughters" for him to sing. I enjoyed his performance a lot and thought it was probably the best he's done so far.

Crystal was then shown in Ohio getting her text message from Ellen. Ellen chose "Maybe I'm Amazed" for Crystal. Excellent song choice ---- it was also a pretty amazing performance. We heard Crystal deliver some vocals that we haven't heard before, although I could tell she wasn't 100% comfortable in doing so.

Lee was shown in Chicago getting his text message from Simon, who chose "Hallelujah" for Lee to sing. I love this song, and, though I was a bit disappointed at hearing it AGAIN this season, Lee delivered what I think was his Idol moment. I was a little nervous that the horns would drown him out, but they didn't. Lee was totally in the song, in the moment and, for the first time, showed everyone that he has what it takes to be the next American Idol.

My choice would be to send Casey home. I'm predicting an upset; I think Casey has a really strong following and I'm afraid Crystal may be going home tonight.

One of Four Voted Off

Okay, so I admit that I've stalled posting my comments about last week's results show. I don't know if I've written this blog for too long, or it's this blah season, or what, but I am pleased to read in entertainment news that the show will be tweaked for next year. Some of the changes: 1/2 hour results show and more performances. The search for Simon's replacement begins in the fall. I'm rooting for Neil Patrick Harris.

Almost 37 million votes were received for last week's results show. Can I just say that's absolutely obscene??

Ryan announced that the show would feature Bon Jovi, Fantasia from Season 3, and Daughtry. Fantasia is one of the few contestants who have given us an "aha" moment; when she sat on the stage, barefoot, in that simple dress and sang "Summertime". Daughtry is another Idol phenomenon; kicked off when there were only 5 contestants remaining. He, also, had an "aha" moment on the show: when he sang "I Walk the Line", changing it up so much I couldn't place the song for the first 45 seconds he was singing. Daughtry proved that it really doesn't matter when you get voted off --- if you've got it, you've got it.

Fantasia appeared first, singing "Bittersweet". I'm admitting right now that I listened for a couple of minutes, then fast-forwarded. It was a typical Fantasia song, nothing I haven't heard before.

Mike, Casey, Lee and Crystal are the Final 4. Their painfully schlocky Ford Music Video was shown, filmed to "Put the Message in the Box".

We were treated to film footage of past "city visits", one of the perks of being in the Final Three. In a little twist to the normal results shows, two family members of each contestant were invited to join them onstage on the couches.

All were asked to stand. Ryan rehashed the performances of Michael and Casey, then Crystal and Lee.

He quickly (and to my surprise) announced that Casey is safe.

And it struck me. I do care. I care about who's going home. I so wanted Michael, Lee and Crystal to be the Final Three. And one of them won't be.

Daughtry performed next, singing "September". Was it my imagination, or was one of the guitars off-key? Comments?

Michael, Lee and Crystal were again brought to center stage. Lee was declared safe.

Bon Jovi was up next, performing "Superman Tonight". I tried, I really tried to listen to them. I just couldn't. The Stones can pull off advanced age and still performing. . . Bon Jovi can not.

Michael and Crystal were again brought to center stage. Crystal was declared safe.

Which means Michael is going home.

I'm sad. He so wanted to be in the Final Three. I blame Kara's careless comments for helping to send Michael home.

Please, universe, find a way for Kara to NOT be on the show next year.

Four Finalists Compete

Okay, here's how it went down. . . I DVR'd the show last night and thought I'd try something different. I decided I'd watch all the performances once, then replay the show taking notes. Unfortunately, after watching the show I didn't have the heart to watch it again. This is the Final Four contestants!! The show should be getting exciting! And what we're seeing is nothing more than we've seen for the entire season.

So, I pretty much forced myself this evening, just about the time the results show started recording on this coast, to watch last night's show again and get this blog posted.

High point: the yummy Taye Diggs was spotted in the audience.

The theme: songs of the movies, the cinema, the silver screen. Jamie Foxx was slated to be the mentor (his second stint, as he mentored last year's contestants, too). Jamie brought each performer two T-shirts: one "contestant" and one "artist". Based on his review of their performance in their session with him, he would reward them with the T-shirt he thought they deserved. The point was to challenge each to do their best.

First off, I have to wonder what kind of crappy songs were on the list that they chose from because, honestly, none of them picked a decent song or even one that was anywhere near what they should have chosen.

Lee chose "Kiss From a Rose". Jamie said that Lee "has to take it from being here, to out here". I couldn't agree more. Jamie awarded Lee an "artist" shirt. Lee's performance was good, as always, but nothing special.

Michael, who revealed to us that last year he made it a goal to get to the Top 3 (a statement that Kara made sure the public would question) chose "Will You Be There". Jamies thought Michael was a "little worried about feeling like maybe, maybe I shouldn't be here" offerred Michael a "contestant" shirt after his run-through. Michael refused it and said he'd be back later for an "artist" shirt. Like Lee's, Michael's performance was good, but not unexpected.

Last night's shows featured duets by the finalists, which turned out to be the high point of the show. Crystal and Lee sang "Falling Slowly", which I've listened to Kris Allen sing, oh, maybe a billion times. They were amazing together, although I disagree with letting any of the performers sing songs that were performed during the season prior.

Casey sang "Mrs. Robinson". Jamie thought he "wasn't focused" and wanted Casey to seduce him. Jamie gave Casey an "artist" shirt, but, again, although there wasn't the excessive vibrato that Casey usually has, the performance was solid, but not exciting.

Crystal's choice was "I'm Alright". Jamie remarked that she should make the audience feel that it's "not just a song, it's a testimony". He gave Crystal an "artist" shirt, too. Her performance was classic Crystal and although she was the only performer that really changed up her song, it was still not an unexpected performance.

Michael and Casey ended the show singing "Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman" from quite possibly the worst movie ever made: Don Juan DeMarco. I literally fell asleep during this movie. However, the duet was beautiful, the guitar playing lovely; they sounded really, really good together.

To be honest, based on the performances I don't really care who they send home tonight. I felt that none of the contestants pushed the envelope. They all know they're good and I feel like they're all coasting on their own popularity at this point. However, I feel like people may have taken Michael's comment about his goal to be in the Top 3 the wrong way (helped by Kara's inane remarks) and some of his fan base might desert him.

So, I'm predicting Casey and Michael are in the Bottom 2 and Michael goes home, although my PERSONAL choice is to send Casey home.

One of 5 Voted Off

Last night's results show opened with the usual horrible "flashback" sequence of performances and judges' wise words. I can't tell you how much I hate this addition to this season.

Ryan announced that 32 million votes were received, that Lady Gaga would be appearing and that this week's mentor, Harry Connick, Jr., would also take the stage.

The Top Five lip-synced a medley of Sinatra hits --- a little unflattering that they chose "Lady is a Tramp" to feature Crystal. . . okay, she is technically an unwed mother, but still! I thought it might be an isolated error in judgement, but they also chose "When I Was 17" to feature the 17-year old. . . just sayin'.

Next week's theme: Songs of the Cinema with mentor Jamie Foxx. This ought to be good.

This week's lame Ford music video was to "1, 2, 3, 4". Still lame.

Then we were treated to a video montage of what Tuesday's have come to mean for the Top 5.

Ryan quickly moved toward announcing results when he asked Lee to go to center stage and, after a short review of judges' comments, announced that Lee was safe.

Lady Gaga appeared next, singing her new hit, "Alejandro", after a weird intro of a weird partial rendition of "Bad Romance". I actually like "Bad Romance", but this new song (Alejandro) is bad, just bad. And very reminiscent of Abba's "Fernando". The weird lacy, fishnetty costume with the net hooded cape, complete with matching face mask and odd, Sleeping Beauty-esque overgrown thorn forest decorated piano was just way too over-the-top, even for Gaga. And, what was up with the longline panty girdles on the male dancers??? The performance was half-sung, half spoken. Lady Gaga is better heard and not seen.

We were then truly treated to a closer look at the Top 5's time with Harry. I adore him, so cute, so talented, and funny to boot!!

And, is rendition of "And I Love Her", one of my favorite Beatles' songs, was fab!! Cue dimples!

The Top 5 then lip-synced a medley of Harry's songs and Harry's story about meeting Sinatra was very entertaining, not to mention that he did a spot-on imitation of Sinatra's speaking voice.

Back to results: Crystal was asked to go to the far side of the stage, Michael to the near side of the stage. Then Aaron was asked to join Michael and Casey to join Crystal.

Michael and Aaron were announced to be the Bottom 2; Crystal and Casey joined Lee on the couch.

Aaron was quickly told he was going home and Michael was safe. Video of Aaron's time on the show and one final performance.

I think Aaron has a future in the music industry; he just needs to mature a little and get more comfortable onstage and develop his voice just a little. We'll be hearing from him in the future.

So, here's how the last shows would go if I ran the world: Casey goes home next, then Michael and the Final 2 would be Crystal and Lee. At that point, I don't care who wins, since Michael, Crystal AND Lee will all have great music careers.

Still waiting to be blown away. . .

Five Finalists Compete

Last night's show featured Harry Connick, Jr. as the mentor, and also featured Harry opening the show with the trademark "THIS is American Idol!"

I spotted Anthony Hopkins in the audience.

Ryan shared with us that Harry Connick, Jr. has sold 25 million albums in his career. I'm responsible for one of each of the albums he's sold. We were also informed that Sinatra had entertained audiences for six decades.

Harry not only served as mentor this week, he also did all the song arrangements and orchestrations for each contestant, as well as offering his band and himself to play for each singer.

Nancy and Tina Sinatra were introduced to us and Tina presented Simon (evidentally a huge Sinatra fan) with a hanky that had belonged to the late crooner. Simon promptly unwrapped it and handled it throughout the rest of the show.

Aaron started out the performances singing "Fly Me to the Moon". It was nice, he changed it up a little to make it his own, and he's a really good technical musician, but he doesn't seem like idol material to me.

Casey was next performing "Blue Skies". He started out a little pitchy, and looked a little lost without his guitar; he just seemed more than slightly uncomfortable throughout the performance. Finally, Kara remarked on his vibrato and said he sounded a little like a lamb.

Crystal's choice was "Summer Wind". Apparently this song has some deep connection to her; Harry couldn't figure it out and frankly, she didn't seem that emotional to me. But it was another flawless performance by her.

Michael chose "The Way You Look Tonight". It was good, but I would have liked it better had he sung it as a soft, slow love song to his wife.

Lee closed out the performances with "That's Life". Harry remarked that he thought Lee was a younger, better looking version of himself. Lee's rendition was flawless and just plain fabulous. He seemed to channel his inner Harry. I think Lee has a crush on Harry, as he thanked him twice, complete with a hug each time.

Harry was his usual fabulous, good looking, witty, funny self. Seeing him again took me back to the concert of his I attended several years ago with my daughters. Our seats were SO close to the stage (and he is SO cute) AND when he looks into the audience he looks directly at you, I blushed every time he looked our way --- those eyes!!! And he sounds great, too!

I took a business trip to New Orleans many years ago. On the first night, I had a room at the Fairmont. I remember looking out of my window and seeing a campaign sign for Harry's dad hanging on the balcony across the street. I thought about going across the next day and asking if I could have it. I regret that I didn't.

Looking forward to hearing Harry on the results show!

My prediction for Bottom 2: Aaron and Casey. And I think Casey might go home.

One of Six Voted Off

Ryan opens the show with the announcement that 33 million votes were received -- pretty impressive seeing how approximately 137 million people voted in the last presidential election.

He also announced that Shakira, Rascal Flatts, Sons of Sylvia and Lady Antebellum would be performing in the show, and the entertainment started immediately.

Rascal Flatts opened, singing "Unstoppable". I really enjoyed this performance --- they actually had me "chair-dancing". Okay, so no one else was up watching the show with me. . . that might have had a little to do with it!

They Ryan dropped the bomb that Rascal Flatts would be back later in the show, doing a number with Shakira!?!

This week's Ford video was vampire themed and filmed to "Believe". It was somehow enjoyable seeing everyone with fangs and animal contacts!

Cameron Diaz and Antonio Banderas made a short appearance, plugging the "last ever" Shrek movie. Antonio was asked to say "dim the lights and here we go". . . as Puss, of course.

Ryan began the results by telling us that three groups would be formed.

Siobhan was asked to stand; her hair looked good for the first time since Hollywood --- no Texas hairdo, just simply straightened and down. She was asked to go to the far side of the stage.

Aaron was sent to center stage; Michael to the stage closest to Ryan.

Lee was sent over to stand with Siobhan. Casey was asked to join Michael. I was beginning to see my prediction come true.

Crytal was asked to join Aaron.

So, the three I chose as the Bottom 3 were split up. Hmmmm. . .

Siobhan was asked to follow Ryan; then he asked her to stand with Michael and Casey and announced that THEY were the Bottom 3. So, I got two of the three correct, anyway.

Aaron, Lee and Crystal were declared safe and sent back to the couches.

Ryan announced that Harry Connick, Jr. will be next week's mentor and they will be singing the songs of Sinatra. Can't wait to see what they do!!

Carrie Underwood made a brief appearance to introduce Sons of Sylvia, who apparently open for her on her current tour. They sang "Love Left to Lose"; more "chair-dancing" from me. I'm hoping they're brothers, because they looked eerily alike.

Lady Antebellum followed, singing "Need You Now". Lovely song, but no chemistry between the singers. I hope they're not a real-life couple!

Rascal Flatts joined Shakira in singing "I'm a Gypsy". Weird, but mildly entertaining.

Back to the results: Michael is safe. At this point I think it must be Siobhan, because I can't imagine that America's teeny-boppers would let Casey get sent home.

The controversial Lane Bryant bra commercial airs. Oooh, cleavage and a woman putting on a trenchcoat over her lingerie to meet "Dan" for lunch! Can't help thinking they objected to this commercial being shown earlier in the show because the girls weren't "Victoria's Secret" thin.

Back to the results: Siobhan is going home and Casey is safe.

I'm really looking forward to what the Final 5 are going to do next week, with the exception of Casey. I think he's going to be in trouble.

Six Finalists Compete

So, here we are. . . down to the Final 6: Aaron, Siobhan, Michael, Lee, Crystal and Casey. Last night's show was the music of Shania Twain. I like Shania --- I thought she was good as a guest judge. I guess I never sat and thought about all the music she's made.

Lee is first, singing "You're Still the One". It's a great song choice for him. Shania says his "fantastic style needs to come out and not be buried by his guitar". He made some interesting changes to the songs (improvements, as I heard it), but it's not one of my favorite Shania songs. Shania looked just a little miffed that Lee hadn't heeded her instructions to start the song a capella.

Michael chose "It Only Hurts When I Breathe". Shania was "very moved to hear his voice to my lyrics and to my melody". His performance brought Shania to tears but I was crying because I'm so tired of hearing the same performance week after week. We all know Michael has a great voice, but I'm waiting for him to exceed our expectations.

Casey's choice was "Don't". Shania said he's "missing a little bit of inner confidence". I wanted to miss his weird vibrato, which ended up getting in the way of me enjoying his performance.

Crystal was out next, singing "No One Needs to Know". Apparently this was a very public plea to her boyfriend to "man up", which didn't seem to work very well. This performance didn't work for me, either. I thought there was way too much heard from the band, backup singers and everything else she loaded the stage up with last night.

Aaron sang "You've Got a Way", changing up the words to make this song appropriate for singing to his mom. I thought it was a great performance, and I'm not usually a huge Aaron fan. So far for me, best of the night.

Siobhan was next with "Any Man of Mine". Shania said she's "gotta get into character". I thought the beginning of the song was nasally and really pitchy, but she ended it "Siobhan-style".

All in all I was disappointed with the show --- I've said this before, but these kids and a lot of the other kids who auditioned blew us away when we first saw them. They should be peaking NOW, not sliding down the slippery slope to "everyday". Although there have been a couple of brighter spots in this season's performances, I've yet to be truly blown away.

As much as I hate to say it, I think Michael, Casey and Crystal will be in the Bottom 3 based on their performances last night.

And, I'm really afraid Michael might be sent home, which would be a shame. He has so much potential.

One of Seven Voted Off

I've already thought ahead to past years' disappointments and have set my DVR to record 15 minutes over the posted end time for each AI show. However, my inner voice is trying to tell me I should be worried, but I shake it off.

Tonight's show starts out with Obama and Michelle, urging everyone to donate and letting us know that last year's Idol Gives Back raised over 14 million dollars.

Ryan is holding court in the American Idol studio and Queen Latifah is onstage at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, where she will welcome: The Black Eyed Peas, Carrie Underwood, Jeff Buckley (hmmm, so it's not Jeff Beck), Joss Stone, Annie Lennox and Sir Elton John.

Ryan counters by pointing out that he will have Alicia Keys, Mary J. Blige and an all-star band AND the results.

The Top 12 come onstage, all dressed in white lip syncing I don't know what.

Jennifer Garner takes us along on her trip to Virginia to see what Save the Children is doing there. Her segment brings me to tears.

Victoria Beckham sits onstage with two kids from Kentucky, whose family she and her son visited on their trip.

Captain Sully Sullenberger makes a plea for donations. Jonah Hill and Russell Brand are featured in the first of several funny bits about a celebrity phone bank they've formed.

Queen Latifah introduces The Black Eyed Peas, who will sing "Rock That Body". I love The Black Eyed Peas but they suck singing live. Absolutely suck. I fast-forward, chuckling when I see Todd Bridges in the audience.

Ryan tells us about a campaign called "Malaria No More". Bottom line: every 30 seconds a child dies from malaria. A $10 donation buys a malaria net and prevents a death. Every 30 seconds.

Ryan announces that the highest bidder for hosting the results is George, from Toluca Lake who, as it turns out, is George Lopez. George decides that it's time to judge the judges and does a very good job.

The always forgettable Ford music video is to "We've Got a Big Mess on Our Hands".

Crystal and Casey are called to center stage. Ryan announces that one of them is safe, and one is in the Bottom 3. Casey is in the Bottom 3 and Crystal is safe.

Aaron and Lee are called to center stage. Ryan announces that one of them is in the Bottom 3 and one is safe. Lee is safe, and Aaron is the second member of tonight's Bottom 3.

Queen Latifah introduces Jeff Buckley and Joss Stone, accompanied by the Jubilation Choir, performing "I Put a Spell on You". Joss Stone tries to sound blacker than the Jubilation Choir. I'm, not sure how I feel about a white woman singing "cain't".

The next segment begins with a variety of celebrities telling us what the last thing they got from their mom was. This segues into a video about orphaned babies whose mom's died in childbirth or shortly thereafter. Your donations can help prevent this.

The Secretary of the United Nations. General Ban Ki-moon of the Republic of Korea, thanks everyone in advance for their generous donations.

One of may all time favorite actors, Morgan Freeman, visit Mississippi with Randy Jackson to witness what Save the Children is doing there.

Alicia Keys performs "Unthinkable" and "New York State of Mind". Besides having on an absolutely dreadful outfit, she sounds unbelievably bad performing live.

Josh Groban asks for donations, and Russell Brand and Jonah Hill introduce their celebrity look-alikes in addition to Slash and Jim Carrey.

Queen Latifah introduces Carrie Underwood, who is singing "Change". She is the first performer of the evening to sing on key. And, the song is inspirational. She announces that 36 cents from each ticket sold for her concert tour will be donated to Save the Children.

Ellen visits Pasadena with David Arquette who volunteers at a food bank. Ellen agrees with me that it's crazy that people in the U.S. are going hungry.

Ryan speaks with Bill and Melinda Gates about the work their foundation is doing and what they hope people will do after watching tonight's show.

Wanda Sykes does a bit about the booted contestants and agrees with me that it stinks to make them perform right after their hearts have been broken in front of millions of people.

Ryan calls Siobhan, Mike and Tim to center stage. Siobhan is safe and Ryan reminds Mike that last year's save, Matt Giraud, only lasted two weeks. Michael is safe and Tim is the final member of tonight's Bottom 3.

David Cook shows the video of his trip to Ethiopia where he visited a girl's school that's giving education to girls who wouldn't normally get one.

Annie Lennox makes a plea for donations for HIV/AIDS drugs. Annie is stranded in London due to the volcanic ash. Her return visit to the ghastly sick Avililey shows a plump, healthy kid where last year's film footage showed a virtual skeleton. Annie performs from London.

Ryan introduces Mary J. Blige and the all-star band (Orianthe, Travis Barker, and Randy Jackson as well as a couple of others). They perform "Stairway to Heaven". It doesn't work for me at all.

Simon talks about the Children's Health Fund and the work of the mobile pediatric clinic in Douglas, Arizona. He also announces that 15 million dollars has been donated so far tonight. That's more than last year already.

Ben Affleck makes a plea for donations.

Queen Latifah introduces Sir John Elton, who talks about his foundation. He sits at the piano to sing "Your Song". I'm listening to him, thinking how very long ago it was that I first heard him sing this, which is making me forgive him just a little for not sounding so great when. . . my DVR stops.

I've recorded 15 minutes over the posted end time for the show and it still isn't enough. After uttering an unmentionable string of curse words, I relocate to my sewing/craft/work room to try to find the results online.

Evidently the show went over 24 minutes. I didn't have a prayer of getting the whole show!!

In any case, Aaron is safe, Casey is safe and FINALLY Tim is sent home.

Next week's mentor is Shania Twain.

Fifty (50) children have died from malaria in the time it has taken me to type this entry. Please make a small $10 donation to save at least one life.

Seven Finalists Compete

Alicia Keys is tonight's mentor, which is appropriate for the Idol Gives Back show. Alicia Keys' charity foundation is "Keep a Child Alive".

Casey is up first singing "Don't Stop" by Fleetwood Mac. Alicia thinks it's one of the biggest songs in the universe. I don't think I can agree with her on that. She says he needs to make people think "I love him" instead of "I love that song". I don't think he manages to do either. The first two phrases of the song are completely off-key. Ellen is right; he's consistently good, but that's not enough -- he has to be great.

Lee sings "The Boxer" by Simon and Garfunkel. The judges are appropriately impressed.

Tim is next, singing "Better Days" by the GooGoo Dolls. He's uncharacteristically pitchy. Could he be nervous?

Aaron's choice is "I Can Believe" by Mariah Carey. I've never been inspired by anything Mariah Carey sings and tonight Aaron's off; really pitchy but manages to improve by the end of the song.

Siobhan's choice is "When You Believe" by Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston, from "The Prince of Egypt". It's just so, so for me and she seems just old. I mean, you can like and appreciate old music without making yourself seem old, but she just comes off old. . . too old.

Michael sings Nickelback's "Hero". I thought it was outstanding. That song was SO played out in our area, that I thought I didn't ever want to hear it again. But I enjoyed Michael's version.

Crystal closed out the show with "People Get Ready" by The Impressions. Her rendition brought me to tears, and, lo and behold the wall came tumbling down and Crystal ended up in tears, too. I'm really hoping she ends up at least in the final three. This girl deserves it.

I'm predicting Tim, Aaron and Siobhan are the Bottom 3 and STILL hoping Tim will be sent home.

Two of Nine Voted Off

I know, I know. . . here it is the night of the next show and I'm just getting around to posting my review of the last result's show! Mea culpa. Sitting at home doing nothing takes up more time than you can imagine!

On to last week's result's show: Brooke White, Justin Gaston and Adam Lambert are scheduled to appear on this show that starts with. . . another awful lip-synced (sunk?) performance of a medley of Elvis songs. Mark my words he IS spinning in his grave!

However, this is the first outfit Siobhan's had on that doesn't look like a collection of weird items or, as my family calls it, the day after Christmas. (You know, when you venture out and see the little kids wearing every item of new clothing they got, whether they match or not.)

And, you know I hate the lip-syncing "group sings" but this one is strictly High School Musical. Dreadful!

The weekly Ford music video, to the tune of "Light & Day/Reach for the Sun" is also an oft-fastforwarded-through item.

Casey, Aaron and Andrew are all directed to center stage.

Oh snap, here's where the "crap, I've been off work for close to a week, through general anesthesia, my mind is mush" starts showing up!! I completely forgot that TWO people are being sent home, and I've only given you my prediction/choice for one. So, I'm quickly adding Tim as my number two pick.

Ryan announces abruptly that Andrew is going home, and Aaron and Casey are safe. I'm sad, because I thought Andrew had SO much potential, but not surprised, because he's simply been disappointing week after week.

Next we're treated to a video of Elliot and Kara's trip to Africa; Elliot's second trip and Kara's first. Kara tries holding a baby at each stop, but she looks SO uncomfortable that she makes you doubt her concern is legitimate.

But, I'm still encouraging each of you to donate at least $10 towards nets to prevent the spread of malaria. So little could achieve so much.

Ryan announces that the "Idol Gives Back" show will feature The Black-Eyed Peas, Annie Lennox, Jeff Beck, Joss Stone, Carrie Underwood, Mary J. Blige and an all-star band, Sir Elton John plus many, many more.

Now comes the part where I start thinking I'm getting too old to write this blog --- who in the hell is Justin Gaston?? He's cute, but he sings like an Idol audition. Apparently he's on some reality show (If I Can Dream) and used to date Miley Cyrus. Guess I should stop skipping over the Miley Cyrus-type "news" in People every week and start paying attention.

Brooke always seemed/looked/acted way older than she is, and tonight, standing next to the studly Justin accentuated that even more. She sounds pretty good, though, singing a country tune. To her credit, she was busy guiding/willing Justin to stay on key (apparently he gets really confused when someone sings harmony but there was NO chemistry, something that's really helpful when singing a duet.

Ryan then calls the whole bottom row out on stage: Lee, Siobhan, Katy, Michael, Crystal and Tim.

He announces that, after 34 million votes Crystal is safe, Siobhan is safe and Lee is safe.

Tim, Michael and Katy are left on stage. Ryan keeps the "suspense" alive by stopping to announce that next week's show will feature inspirational songs and Alicia Keys will be the mentor.

Adam sings his single "What Do You Want From Me?" --- it's pure Adam, a little overdone, but what can I say?

Back to Tim, Michael and Katy. Once again, I'm shocked to hear that Tim is safe. One of the two remaining is going home, the other wasn't even in the Bottom 3.

Katy is going home. Thank God Michael is safe and is NOT in the Bottom 3.

And. . . they make her sing. I hate that!

Still waiting for a really big, really truly "aha" moment.

Nine Finalists Compete. . . Again

This week's songs are from the Elvis songbook and Adam Lambert is the "mentor". I've said it before: I'm not an Elvis fan. At least Adam has the good sense to say publicly that he can't really be a mentor, since he doesn't have enough experience, but he will be honest and try to be helpful.

Crystal chooses "Saved". Not many people can make me like an Elvis song, but Crystal can and she does with this one. Pure Crystal!

Andrew sings "Hound Dog". I'm nervous watching the footage. Like Adam, I don't think he's done enough to the song to make it sound non-karaoke. He took Adam's advice and I mostly liked it, but I certainly wasn't blown away. And by this time, they should ALL be blowing us away.

Tim chose (surprise) "Can't Help Falling in Love". I was pleasantly surprised. I really like it, and I haven't liked very much of what Tim's done since the auditions.

Lee sang "A Little Less Conversation". This is one Elvis song I like. Okay, so it didn't hurt that it makes me think of "Ocean's 11" and Brad and George and the guys. But I loved Lee's rendition. He was looser and more engaging than he's ever been. He just may be starting to believe in himself.

Aaron chose "Blue Suede Shoes". He's a strong singer, but this sounded (and looked) a little too much like part of a stage production number.

Siobhan, evidently a serious Elvis fan, was next with "Suspicious Minds". Admittedly, this is one of my least favorite Elvis songs, but she made me like it less. I'm losing my faith in this girl.

However, Siobhan thankfully directed Michael to "In the Ghetto". I really, really, really enjoyed his interpretation, from the changes he made to the arrangement. This was as strong, if not stronger, than last week's "save me" performance.

Katy, evidently a little pissed off at the judges, chose "Baby What You Want Me to Do?" I don't like most of what Katy does --- she just sings too old for her age. Does that make sense to anyone else except me? Anyway, I actually like her singing this. Maybe because I'm pissed off at the judges, too, for their back-and-forth "advice".

Casey wrapped up the show singing "Lawdy Miss Clawdy". I will admit that I've never heard this song before (not an Elvis fan, remember). But in any case, it was a solid performance, but not stellar.

If it were up to me Andrew, Aaron and Siobhan would be in the Bottom Three tomorrow night, and, sadly, Andrew would go home. He just hasn't lived up to the potential he showed during Hollywood Week.

But it's NOT up to me, it's up to the voting public, so anything could happen!

One of Nine Voted Off

Okay, okay, I know I'm almost a week overdue with posting this. I've said this before: I really hate when my job gets in the way of my life, but this time it was my life getting in the way of my life --- a surgery planned months ago that suddenly was on the horizon, just after Easter (when I have my extended family for brunch). . . well, that's really fodder for my crazy, zany life, so I'll just get back to it.

I know I complain every season that I wish they'd change some things, and they have, but I really, really don't like the weird montage/recap thing they've added this year to the beginning of the results shows.

Jason DeRulo, Rhianna and David Archuleta guested --- strange combo, but THIS IS. . . American Idol!

The dreaded/dreadful "group sing" was a collection from the Lennon/McCartney songbook and was nothing more than bad lip syncing.

This week's Ford video was to "Will it Go Round in Circles".

And then the results began.

Siobhan was invited to center stage. Crystal was invited to join her. Then Katy was added to the group. After the usual long, drawn out rehash, Crystal was declared safe, then Katy and Siobhan. Slick, Ryan.

Jason DeRulo, who I will admit I've never heard of, is apparently a Kara "find". He was okay, but what's up with the ill-fitting winter gloves? MJ did the glove, Jason, find a new "thing".

David Archuleta sang "Imagine". It was amazing to see him again --- more confident, more mature looking and a more refined sound to his voice. He's growing up!

Lee was sent to the far side of the stage. Michael was directed to the close side of the stage. Casey was directed to stand with Lee, Aaron with Michael. Tim was sent to stand with Lee and Casey.

I'm watching, and trying to figure out how it's going to shake out, but I'm confused. What's happening? Lee and Casey CAN'T be in the Bottom Three, but Tim could.

Aaron could, but surely Michael couldn't be in the Bottom Three.

Andrew is asked to stand with Michael and Aaron. Even before Ryan says it, we know that one group is safe and one IS the Bottom Three.

Ryan announces what seems to be the impossible: Michael, Aaron and Andrew are the Bottom Three and Lee, Casey and Tim are sent back to the couches.

Okay, I'm thinking I can still somehow deal with this, thinking Michael and Andrew will be sent to the couches and Aaron will go home, but then Aaron is declared safe, leaving Andrew and Michael as the Bottom Two. Unbelievable!!

Rhianna comes out and sings her new single "Rock Star". I like some of Rhianna's music, but she doesn't pull this one off, at least in a live performance.

So, there stand the two fathers and I'm thinking they might send Andrew home, but he is sent back to the couches and Michael is asked to sing for his life. I can't believe that the voting public has hung Michael out to dry. Even if you didn't like his rendition of "Eleanor Rigby", he's a great singer and performer.

So, Michael sings for his life giving perhaps his best performance to date and, thankfully, the judges vote unanimously to save him.

That means TWO singers go home next week.

Nine Finalists Compete

Here's how much I love Lennon/McCartney music. I am currently listening to a CD of cover songs done "lullaby" style that my grandkids listen to when they're going to sleep.

Last night's show started with a little nod to Didi, which is something I don't think they've ever done. It was a little strange. Ryan introduced the Top 9 and announced that this week's "theme" would be video of what the other contestants thought about each other. There was also a taped video "encouragement" from Sir Paul himself.

Aaron, a.k.a. Yoda, chose one of my favorites: "Long and Winding Road". I thought he sang it well, and I enjoyed it as much as the original. I think he muffed the lyrics partway through, but I'm not sure anyone noticed. I totally disagreed with the judges and thought it was pretty good.

Katy chose "Let it Be". I actually enjoyed her rendition. But there's still something about her that I just don't like.

Andrew sang "Can't Buy Me Love" and I thought it was truly awesome! The judges disagreed.

Michael was next, singing "Eleanor Rigby". I was really excited about this one, looking forward to hearing it, and I wanted to love it, but for me it was just "aight".

Crystal sang "Come Together", a perfect choice for her. It was absolutely the best song for her, she sang it well and I totally loved it. And, screw the judges, the digeridoo was cool!

Tim chose "All My Lovin'". I was very, very afraid to hear him sing, and it was just okay. He really sings every song exactly the same and would actually make a great lounge singer.

Casey's choice was "Jealous Guy". Wow!! This was an "aha" moment for me!! He changed it up a LOT and really made it fit his style. Casey's beginning to grow on me.

Siobhan was next, singing "Across the Universe". I liked that she wasn't moving around, and that she just sat in front of the microphone, but unless this chick is belting out a note, she's just plain nasally. I did NOT enjoy this performance.

Lee closed the show with "Hey Jude". This performance was classic Lee --- that gravelly voice made this song just great! The bagpiper was a little weird, but his version made up for that.

My votes for Bottom 3: Aaron, Tim and Siobhan. It should be Tim's turn to go home.

One of 10 Voted Off

Let's hear it for RUUUUBEN!! Glad to see the "not as big" guy back on the AI stage! Loved his song "Don't Make 'Em Like U No More". And I loved seeing him sing again.

This week's Ford video was filmed to "Kung Fu Fighting". "Nuff said about that.

Ryan got right to the pronouncements.

Lee was safe.

Casey was safe.

Aaron was safe.

Siobhan and Katy were asked to stand up together; Katy was told she was in the Bottom 3 and Siobhan was safe. Lil' surprise to me.

Next week's song picks will be from the Lennon/McCarthy songbook! YAAY!!

Ryan introduced Justin Bieber, whose mom had allowed him to stay up past his bedtime.

Usher performed OMG featuring Will I Am. Usher, unfortunately, is one of those artists. Ya shouldn't sing live and dance if you can't sing live and dance. Should have gone for the background track, Ush.

Back to the pronouncements.

Didi was told she was in the Bottom 3. No surprises there.

Michael was safe.

Crystal was safe.

Tim and Andrew were asked to stand together; Andrew was safe and Tim was declared one of the Bottom 3. Another no-brainer.

Back from break, Katy was told she was safe.

Diddy Money came out next with his new single "Hello Good Morning". Diddy sang well live, because he DIDN'T dance, he merely bounced around a little. That man is full of himself, although he did sound good.

Didi was quickly told she was to sing for her life, Tim was sent back to the seats. She sang, and almost got through it okay until she hit the big note. No surprises, again, as Simon announced that they would NOT use the save.

Can't wait until next week --- I'm eager to hear what songs everyone chooses. So many, so many. . .

Ten Finalists Compete

Tuesday’s theme was “Soul and R&B” and the guest mentor was Usher. One word: yum. Handsome, talented, kind, smart.

Siobhan met Usher and was “wicked nervous”. She chose “Through the Fire” by Chaka Kahn. Usher said she has a “unique vocal ability”. I thought she started out a bit nasally, especially in the lower registers, then her voice cracked once, no twice, on the higher notes. Yikes!! She moved to pure pitchiness and ended up standing in front of the judges looking totally bummed. Note to Randy: courage and conviction can only take you so far in this competition. I fear her look of utter dejection may be seen by voters as “I’ve given up” and, honestly, I’m not sure that she hasn’t.

New this week: post-performance footage. Some high on praise, many close to tears.

Ellen: Captain Kangaroo called (from beyond) and wants his jacket back.

Casey was next with “Hold On, I’m Comin’” by Sammy and Dave. Usher was “really impressed”. I was, too, except for that rapid vibrato thing he has. He’s a pretty good package: looks, guitar talent, and enough singing talent to get by.

Michael chose “Ready for Love” by India Arie. I like it when the guys choose songs that girls have made into hits. Usher warned him to “make sure they feel that energy”. I was slightly distracted by the effect the backlighting had on his ears, making them glow like ET’s finger, but otherwise, there were no flaws in his performance. The only thing I would have changed would have been to have him make eye contact more often.

Didi chose “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted” originally sung by Jimmy Ruffin. During her run-through with Usher, she broke down after she was finished. Usher said it was a “very emotional song for a very emotional young lady” and that she would have to make that commitment during her performance in order to make it work. I didn’t feel any emotional connection at all from her performance. She was a little pitchy and made it sound like just a song, nothing special. I didn’t like her 40’s glam look, either. I didn’t feel like it suited her OR her song choice. I would have liked it better had she been sitting on the edge of the stage in a simple dress.

Tim’s song choice was “Sweet Love” by Anita Baker. Usher urged him to “hold on to the memory” of being in love and to “own it”. Tim did neither. Technically great, but flat and emotionless.

Andrew chose “Forever” by Chris Brown. I was sure I wouldn’t like it, because I’m so biased against Mr. Brown. Usher said he loved that song and Andrew made him “love it even more”. I loved the way Andrew sang it; he certainly made up for the fact that it was a Chris Brown song. Andrew’s BACK!!!

Aretha Franklin’s “Chain of Fools” was Katy’s song choice. Usher thought she had “pizzazz and attitude”, but I could barely get past what she was wearing. Spaghetti strap romper with pleather leggings??? I’m agreeing with Simon --- her performance left me cold. AND it wasn’t even as technically great as she usually sings.

Lee, recovering from walking pneumonia, chose “Treat Her Like a Lady” by the Cornelius Brothers. Usher said he was “a special treat”. All I can say is “WOW”!!! I think Lee’s performance may have been this season’s “aha” moment.

Crystal chose “Midnight Train to Georgia” by Gladys Knight. Usher told her: “You got a real shot, kid!” She chose to play the piano, which was both good and bad. She admitted that she hadn’t played the piano in a while, and ended up looking at the keyboard a LOT, which took a little away from her performance. Thankfully, she stood up partway through and finished without playing the piano. Simon said she should quit listening to Kara’s theme: try something new, think out of the box, and stay true to who she is as a performer. I agree.

Aaron sang “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers. Usher said he was “incredible”. He was a little shaky during his performance, which is uncharacteristic for him. He wasn’t as strong as I expected him to be. It could be that Ryan threw off his confidence by introducing him as the “high school student”. Way to go, Ryan.

My picks for Bottom Three this week: Siobhan, Didi and Tim. I would send Didi home.

But, America’s voting --- I’m not gonna put any money on it!!

Top 10

Ryan reminded us that "the save" is still around, but only until it gets to Top 5. We were, once again, forced to sit through the "group sing". This week was George Michael's "Wake Me Up". Crystal looked like she was going to barf.

Another Ford video, then Ryan got down to the business of results.

Siobhan is safe.

Lee and Casey were asked to stand, then Tim and Paige. After hashing over everyone's performances and criticisms from the judges, Paige was declared one of the Bottom 3, then Tim was quickly added to that.

Next week's mentor is Usher and the them will be R&B. Miley Cyrus performed (I fast-forwarded) and Ryan announced that the top row was all safe and going on tour. Evidently he announced during the break that Lee and Casey were safe.

Aaron is safe.

Didi is safe.

Michael is safe.

Crystal is safe.

Katy and Andrew are asked to stand and strangely enough Katy is sent to the Bottom 3 and Andrew is safe.

Katy is declared safe and Demi Lovato and Joe Jonas perform a duet (again, fast-forwarded).

Tim and Paige join Ryan center stage and Tim is declared safe. Simon tells Paige that even if she sings she's going home, so she doesn't even get a chance to sing for her life. Ryan lets her sing "Honky Tonk Woman" as the show ends.

And we're left wondering: when will we hear the "aha" performance? Who will it be? Will there be one this season? Or did we already see it when Andrew sang Paula Abdul's "Straight Up" during Hollywood week? And was that Andrew's best?

I hope we get the answers to those questions.

11 Finalists Perform. . .

Tuesday's show featured "chart-topping hits"; the contestants got to choose any song from the Hot 100 Billboard. This week's mentor was Miley Cyrus. Somehow I thought a mentor should be someone who's been around a while, had some real life experience, oh, I don't know, older than 17. I was wrong. Mentor = made a lot of money to this show.

Lee started out the show singing "The Letter" by the Box Tops. I thought it was a solid performance. He changed it up just enough to make it interesting. He really looked and sounded like a younger, slicker, cuter Joe Cocker.

Paige was up next with "Against All Odds" by Phil Collins. This is one of my all-time favorite songs, and she killed it, but not in a good way. Miley had warned her about being pitchy, and Paige took it to heart, but didn't do anything BUT sing offkey for the entire performance. It was just awful.

Tim's choice was "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" by Queen. This song always reminds me of the audition in the beginning of "Back to the Future". I wish someone had cut Tim off short like they did Michael J. Fox's character in the movie. Tim has a really good voice, but you can't learn charisma and Tim doesn't have it.

Aaron sang "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" by Aerosmith. Considering he's suffering from tonsilitis and laryngitis, it was fabulous.

Crystal was next, singing "Me and Bobby McGee" by Janis Joplin. I've already said that Crystal is a kinger, gentler, hipper Janis and she proved it tonight. It was an excellent song choice for her. This girl is crazy talented, but also wary, and it shows in her stage presence. It's almost as if she's been really, really hurt and doesn't trust opening up to people anymore. She could be scared of what the future will bring if she makes it big. Who knows?

Mike sang "When a Man Loves a Woman" by Percy Sledge. I was really looking forward to hearing him, based on the clip with Miley, and he was technically great, but I was expecting way more feeling and to be much more engaged than I was watching him.

Andrew's choice was "I Heard it Through the Grapevine" by Marvin Gaye. I've loved Andrew since his first performance, but this was absolutely NOT the song for him.

Katy chose to listen to the judges and try something "young", Fergie's "Big Girls Don't Cry". Katy is usually technically perfect, though emotionally bland, but she was pitchy almost all the way through her song. Katy has a beautiful voice, but she always reminds me of Josh Groban singing pop.

Casey picked "The Power of Love" by Huey Lewis and the News. His vocals were the best I've heard from him and he's really a talented guitarist.

Didi's song was "You're No Good" by Linda Ronstadt. Although it was reminiscent of something out of a musical production, I thought it was her strongest performance this season. I still wish she'd chosen a different song.

Siobhan closed out the show with Stevie Wonder's "Superstition". I didn't get her outfit at all, but she gave a good solid performance.

My prediction for the bottom three is: Paige, Andrew and Didi, and I predict Paige will go home.

And Then There Were Eleven. . .

David Cook opened the show with “Jumpin’ Jack Flash”. It was great to see him again, and he totally slayed it with that performance. He’s as talented as ever and I still enjoy hearing him perform.

The first Ford commercial of the year was not the worst I’ve ever seen. Poor Casey missed the filming due to the flu.

I’m admitting right here that I fast-forward through most of the drivel on the results shows; I simply want to know who stays and who goes, without the rehashing of comments, etc. from the performance show.

Page is immediately sent to “the stools” as the first person in the Bottom 3.

Lee is safe.

Siobhan is safe.

Aaron is safe.

Andrew and Tim are asked to stand up together (ooooh, the suspense of it all) and Andrew is declared safe; Tim is sent to “the stools” as the second person in the Bottom 3.

Some breakout “star”, Orianthi, performed a song. I fast-forwarded again.

Didi is safe.

Crystal is safe.

Katy is safe.

Michael is safe.

Lacey and Casey are asked to stand up together; Casey is safe and Lacey is sent “to the stools” as the final member of the Bottom 3 this week.

Tim is safe.

Ke$ha (John Mayer’s Twitter crush) performed a fully taped, lip-synced version of her latest hit, “Blah, Blah, Blah”. I like the song she sings about gargling with Jack Daniels, and might like this one if I heard it on the radio, but didn’t enjoy seeing it done.

Lacey is declared “in danger”, sings “I was Made for You” in hopes that the judges will use their once-a-season “save card”, but is quickly and unceremoniously told by Simon that they unanimously decided she’s not worth keeping.

So, no surprises for me so far. As I do every year, I hope the show gets more interesting, maybe a couple of kids will break out and start becoming real stars, maybe a few already established at the top of the list will flounder.

Just hoping the show gets more interesting than it is right now.

Top 12 Perform

Okay, so the Top 12 were named last week: Didi, Siobhan, Paige, Casey, Tim, Lee, Crystal, Michael, Lacey, Aaron, Andrew, and Katy. The only surprises to me: I thought they’d keep curly-haired chick because she was cute and quirky, and I thought Alex would be in the Top 12 because he’s really talented.

But, as we all know, there’s no trying to understand the way the public votes. It’s possible some, if not most, of the people who vote might be just like the clueless people at auditions who truly can’t sing but are convinced that they can!! Who’s in charge at the asylum??

A confession: I watched both shows via DVR late Wednesday night, but took notes (as I always do) and have recorded everything today exactly as I wrote it originally. My prediction was made immediately after the performance show was over, before I started watching the results show.

In any case, the show continues, starting out week #1 with a Rolling Stones theme. My co-worker, an avid NON-AI fan, remarked that he was thoroughly disappointed that the Stones were connected in any way to “that show that you watch”. Thanks, Mick Jagger, for helping me piss off my co-worker!

The video theme on Tuesday night was family; Michael opened the show with a video story that brought me to tears, all about his mom who died and footage of him with his brand new baby and his wife. He really is a big teddy bear!

Michael chose “Miss You”; he turned it into an R&B-style love song. It was a really strong performance, his vocals were good and he really worked the stage well. Kudos to Ryan for getting in Simon’s face --- Simon deserves for someone to make HIM feel uncomfortable!

Did was out next singing “Play with Fire” after the uncomfortably awkward video footage of her mom. I liked the arrangement she used because it suited her vocal style, but there’s something slightly annoying about her vocals for me. She starts out, I think “she’s got a kinda cool sound” and just when it should “take” I just start feeling annoyed. Don’t know what it is. She forgot the lyrics twice and yes, she rebounded but really, at this point everyone should know the words. It was just “aight” for me.

Casey’s video footage told an amazing story of a very, very sick child who grew up to be a pretty talented musician. He chose “It’s All Over Now”; really banged it out country-rock style. This was the first time I really, really enjoyed hearing him sing. He’s a cutie, and the girls adore him, and he can really play guitar, but up until now I never appreciated his vocal style.

Lacey’s story was about her Victory Church parent pastors and growing up singing in the church. She chose one of my favorite Stone’s tunes, “Ruby Tuesday”. I wanted to like the arrangement she used, and might have if someone else had used it, but she managed to make it sound to me like a little kid singing it while skipping through the park. It was weird to me. Might have had something to do with the very strange outfit she had on. In any case, she was really pitchy.

Andrew’s video footage was more of his family’s tough story. His dad is great: the ex-gangbanger with a marshmallow heart. But his mom just made me nervous --- just sitting there like a mute. She had nothing to say? Andrew sang “Give Me Shelter” --- I love all of his vocals, but he looked awkward and uncomfortable and just wasn’t able to pull of manipulating the mike stand.

Katy was out next, with an embarrassing video of a horrible performance she gave as an 8-year old. She sang “Wild Horses” which was a really good choice for her. She sang it as a ballad; it was the first time she sounded as good to me as she did in her original audition.

Tim’s video was all about his huge family (10 kids). They all looked alike, and reminded me I haven’t watched the Duggars recently. He chose to sing “Under My Thumb”, another of my favorites. He took a big risk using a reggae arrangement, and he just wasn’t able to pull it off. I agreed with the judges; acceptable performance if you were at a beach resort (and had a couple of MaiTais under your belt), but not the knockout performance he needs at this point.

Siobhan’ s video showed her extremely Irish family (apropos for St. Patrick’s Day). She sang “Paint it Black”, my all-time favorite Rolling Stones song. She started out a little nasal-y, but I loved the arrangement she used. Paired with her outfit (strapless black girly-girl dress with Doc Marten-type boots) she managed to pull it off. She was a little pitchy partway through, but finished off with an Adam Lambert-esque ending.
Lee’s video talked about how embarrassed he was to sing as a little kid. He chose “Beast of Burden”; I love his voice, and loved this particular rendition, but he looked a little awkward and embarrassed. This kid needs to realize how good he is.

Paige’s story was tragic; all about her paralyzed father who eventually died, and growing up singing in the church, actually boosting attendance on the days she sang. She sang “Honky Tonk Woman”. I liked parts of this performance, but didn’t like other parts. I think Paige is having problems figuring out who she is as a performer and I’m hoping she finds out before she gets booted.

Aaron’s video talked about how he was adopted at 5 years old and how his mom (Kelly Kelly) can’t sing. It’s hard to take Aaron seriously because he’s just a kid, and can’t really pull off anything tough or gritty. He reminds me of David Archuleta --- great voice but just not old enough to pull of anything serious. Aaron sang “Angie”. I was a little worried, but this kid can sing, so he managed to be believable.

Crystal’s tough-guy dad broke down during her video, talking about a song she wrote as a teenager where she said she loved him. She chose “You Can’t Always Get What You Want”. This is a young girl with an old, old soul, who channels Janis Joplin. She’s like Joplin reincarnated, but somehow a kinder, gentler Joplin. I love her, I love that she knows who she is and sings what she wants how she wants to. The judges kept talking about how she seems to act like she’s “got this in the bag”. I’ve never gotten that impression of her (and I’m glad she had a chance to refute that on the results show).

Lacey, Tim and Paige had the weakest performances (for me). I predict they’ll be in the Bottom 3 at the end of tomorrow’s results show and the Lacey will go home.