As we finish up the first week of this year's American Idol 7's Semifinal round, I thought it might be interesting to take a look back at what I see as the Top 10 Semifinal performances through the years.
A couple of notes on this list:
-This year's performances are not included
-Starting in Season 4, the format changed from voting contestants into the Top 12 to eliminating the lowest polling contestants from the competition, so Season 4 and 5 contestants had 3 Semifinal performance, versus just 1 for contestants from Seasons 1-3.
And, the list...
1. Latoya London, "All By Myself" (Season 3)
I can still remember the moment when I literally fell off my bed as Latoya hit the impossibly high note in Eric Carmen's ballad. "Anymooooooooooooooooooooore" -- Jaw. On. Floor. Aside from Kelly Clarkson's first performance in the Top 10, this may be the most surprising performance I have ever seen on the show, made all the more so because we had not seen Latoya onscreen for even one minute leading up to the semifinals. Her personality ultimately ended up disappointing me later in the competition, but her vocal work in her first performance is truly unforgettable.
2. Melinda Doolittle, "My Funny Valentine" (Season 6)
Talk about a class act! Melinda showed what a pro she is, effortlessy giving this classic her own bluesy, soulful spin. Every note in this rendition was letter-perfect, and she couldn't have come off more humble or likable. If she ever gets around to making a CD (come on, where's the Melinda record deal announcement??), this is what the music should sound like.
3. Kelly Clarkson, "Respect" (Season 1)
I know, I know, how could I not put Ms. Kelly at number 1, especially when this was the very first the audience was seeing of the sassy Texan? Her vocal work and irrepressible personality were astoundingly clear as she wailed the Aretha classic, all the while missing which camera she was supposed to be looking into. (If you can get your hands on this performance, it really is a must watch, as Kelly adorably, and consistently, is looking anywhere but where the camera is). Coming into this week, Justin was the one to watch. At the end of the week, it was Kelly people were talking about.
4. Chris Daughtry, "Hemmorage" (Season 5)
If Bo Bice started the rock trend on American Idol, Chris Daughtry hammered it home. After a solid cover of Bon Jovi's "Wanted Dead or Alive" in the first week of the semifinals, Daughtry stepped it up about 8 notches on this Fuel song, transporting himself and the viewers to the middle of a slammin' rock concert. Bice may have been credible within the world of AI, but Daughtry took it to another level. It's no wonder he's had such a successful post-show transition into the rock music world.
5. Clay Aiken, "Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me" (Season 2)
His initial audition was shocking for the discrepancy between the way he looked and sounded, and his semifinal performance of the Journey classic "Open Arms" was great, but it was his stunning Wildcard rendition of the Elton John tune that really put Clay Aiken on the map. Standing tall in the center of the stage, looking confident but not cocky, he saaaaaaaaang his way into the hearts of millions. This was the moment, I believe, that Clay Nation really began to take shape.
6. Fantasia, "Something to Talk About" (Season 3)
That voice. Those lips. That sassy personality. Ms. 'Tasia announced her presence to the world as the final performer of week 1's semifinals in Season 3, and never looked back. Flawless.
7. LaKisha Jones, "And I Am Telling You" (Season 6)
Taking on the Dreamgirls classic just a month after Jennifer Hudson had been awarded the Oscar for singing the same song, LaKisha fearlessly tore into this tune, making it clear she was a force to be reckoned with. The power of this performance, however, may have been her ultimate downfall -- she may simply have peaked too soon. Still, one of the most passionate performances the semifinal round has ever seen.
8. Kimberley Locke, "Somewhere Over The Rainbow" (Season 2)
Sure, she sang this song in her initial audition, and by the time she reprised the performance in the second week of semifinals (which also featured Ruben Studdard and Clay Aiken) there was already some "Rainbow" fatigue, but her controlled and beautiful rendition of the Judy Garland chestnut made clear Season 2 wasn't just going to be a boy's race to the finish.
9. Bo Bice, "Whipping Post" (Season 4)
Until Bo Bice picked up that mike stand and went to town on the Allman Brothers Band tune, the closest thing AI had to a rocker was Justin Guarini (and that ain't too close). With this performance Bice, who had received very little screen time coming into the semifinals in favor of fellow "rocker" Constantine Maroulis, established himself as a showman, a vocal talent, and the "credible rocker" of Season 4.
10. Katharine McPhee, "Since I Fell For You" (Season 5)
Although she was dressed rather plainly in jeans and a top for her first Semifinal appearance, the effortless way Katharine handled the runs on this Barbra Streisand tune made it clear she was gonna be a contender.
Honorable Mentions:
Blake Lewis, "Somewhere Only We Know" (Season 6)
Chris Richardson, "Geek in the Pink" (Season 6)
Melinda Doolittle. "Woman" (Season 6)
EJ Day, "I'll Be" (Season 1)
Jennifer Hudson, "Imagine" (Season 3)
Tamyra Gray, "And I Am Telling You" (Season 1)
Ruben Studdard, "Superstar" (Season 2)
Ace Young, "Father Figure" (Season 5)
Thoughts? Agree? Disagree? Did I miss something? Let me know.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Ten Best American Idol Semifinal Performances of All Time
Sunday, January 20, 2008
IDOL MADNESS Jackson Bracket -- Draw, Seeds and First Round Match-Ups
Vote in the Abdul Bracket First Round Match-Ups and see the results of the Cowell and Seacrest Bracket First Round Match-Ups
Jackson Bracket First Round Match-Ups:
#1 Carrie Underwood vs. #16 Brandon Rodgers
#2 Chris Daughtry vs. #15 Camile Velasco
#3 Latoya London vs. #14 Corey Clark
#4 Katharine McPhee vs. #13 Jon Peter Lewis
#5 Justin Guarini vs. #12 Gina Glocksen
#6 Paris Bennett vs. #11 Anwar Robinson
#7 Josh Gracin vs. #10 Nikko Smith
#8 Christina Christian vs. #9 Mandisa Hundley
Visit IDOL MADNESS Main Page
The top 2 seeds of the Jackson bracket were two of the hottest pop stars in 2007. #1seed Carrie Underwood picked up 3 Grammys (and countless other awards) and released a sophomore album on her way to selling several million records last year. #2 seed Chris Daughtry picked up 3 American Music Awards and 4 Grammy nominations on his way to selling 3 million records.
Trying to keep those two seeds from reaching the Final Four will be a pair of runners-up (#5 seed Justin Guarini and #4 seed Katherine McPhee) and a trio of divas (#9 Mandisa Hundley, #6 Paris Bennett, and #3 Latoya London). Overall, Season 5 contestants could overpower this bracket with strong 2, 4, 6, and 9 seeds. Anyone dare call for the sweep??
1 Carrie Underwood
2 Chris Daughtry
3 LaToya London
4 Katharine McPhee
5 Justin Guarini
6 Paris Bennett
7 Josh Gracin
8 Christina Christian
9 Mandisa Hundley
10 Nikko Smith
11 Anwar Robinson
12 Gina Glockson
13 Jon Peter Lewis
14 Corey Clark
15 Camile Velasco
16 Brandon Rodgers
Saturday, December 01, 2007
IDOL MADNESS (Jackson) Sweet 16: #3 Latoya London vs. #7 Josh Gracin
#1 Kelly Clarkson vs. #5 Bo Bice
#6 Jasmine Trias vs. #10 Kellie Pickler
Seacrest Bracket
#2 Clay Aiken vs. #3 Melinda Doolittle
#9 Constantine Maroulis vs. #13 Bucky Covington
Abdul Bracket
#3 Elliott Yamin vs. #7 Anthony Fedorov
#5 Blake Lewis vs. #9 Ace Young
Jackson Bracket
#1 Carrie Underwood vs. #12 Gina Glocksen
#3 Latoya London vs. #7 Josh Gracin
Visit the IDOL MADNESS Main Page
Thursday, November 01, 2007
IDOL MADNESS (Jackson Bracket) Rnd of 64: #3 Latoya London vs. #14 Corey Clarke
Jackson Bracket First Round Match-Ups:
#1 Carrie Underwood vs. #16 Brandon Rodgers
#2 Chris Daughtry vs. #15 Camile Velasco
#3 Latoya London vs. #14 Corey Clark
#4 Katharine McPhee vs. #13 Jon Peter Lewis
#5 Justin Guarini vs. #12 Gina Glocksen
#6 Paris Bennett vs. #11 Anwar Robinson
#7 Josh Gracin vs. #10 Nikko Smith
#8 Christina Christian vs. #9 Mandisa Hundley
Visit IDOL MADNESS Main Page
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
American Idol's LaKisha Jones to Join the Broadway Cast of The Color Purple
The Idols keep on comin' to Broadway.
The latest former contestant to debut on the Great White Way will be Season 6 fourth place finisher LaKisha Jones. According to a press release, she will join the Broadway company of The Color Purple on December 19, 2007, as the church soloist in the musical's opening number. She will also play Sofia at the matinee performances.
There will be a few weeks where Kiki will be performing with Fantasia, who is currently winning raves for her performance as Celie. LaKisha is actually the third former Idol contestant to appear in The Color Purple -- Latoya London, the fourth place finisher from Season 3, is currently playing Nettie in the Chicago company of the show.
After delivering showstoppers like "And I Am Telling You," "God Bless the Child, "and "This Ain't a Love Song," is there anyone who believes LaKisha won't kill it on Broadway? Welcome to the club, girl!
Click for more News on Former American Idol Contestants
Click for Today's Top 10 Posts
Friday, May 11, 2007
Ranking the 4th Place Finishers
Now that we have gotten to the Top 4, rankings become much more subjective -- all of these contestants were great, it's now just a matter of personal taste. Remember, these rankings are determined on American Idol performances only, not on what the contestants have accomplished since their time on the show.
1. Tamyra Gray (Season 1)
Best Known For: Immersing herself in each week's theme; shocking elimination
Best Performance: "If I Were Your Woman," "A House is Not A Home," "Minnie the Moocher"
Worst Performance: Only one that was even remotely bad: "New Attitude"
Post-AI: Released a CD; appeared on "Boston Public" and in the movie The Gospel; appeared on Broadway in Bombay Dreams and will return as Mimi in Rent later this month
2. Latoya London (Season 3)
Best Known For: One of Season 3's Three Divas; soaring voice; shocking elimination
Best Performance: "All By Myself," "Somewhere"
Worst Performance: Nothing terrible, just a bit boring: "Ooh Baby Baby," "Love You Inside and Out"
Post AI: Released a CD; currently appearing in the Chicago production of The Color Purple as Celie's sister Nettie
3. Chris Daughtry (Season 5)
Best Known For: The show's first authentic rock contestant; shocking elimination
Best Performance: "Wanted, Dead or Alive," "Hemmorhage," "Walk the Line"
Worst Performance: "Innuendo"
Post AI: Debut CD still in the Top 10 nearly six months after it's release; joins Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood as one of the most successful former contestants
4. LaKisha Jones (Season 6)
Best Known For: Huge gospel voice; emotional backstory
Best Performance: "And I Am Telling You," "God Bless the Child," "This Ain't a Love Song"
Worst Performance: "Jesus Takes the Wheel"
Post AI: We'll see...
5. Josh Gracin (Season 2)
Best Known For: The show's first country contestant; being a marine
Best Performance: "I'll Be," "To Love Somebody"
Worst Performance: "Celebration"
Post AI: Released a successful country CD, featuring three Top 5 hits; new album in stores later this summer
6. Anthony Fedorov (Season 4)
Best Known For: His "born in Ukraine"/early childhood tracheotomy backstory
Best Performance: "I Surrender," "If You Don't Know Me By Now"
Worst Performance:
Post AI: Escorted Carrie Underwood to the ACM Awards; currently appearing Off-Broadway in The Fantasticks
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
The Ten Most Shocking Results in American Idol History
Over the years, American Idol has supplied us with many shocking results. Here are my picks for the most surprising.
1. Tamyra Gray's elimination (Season 1)
We didn't even know shocking results were possible at this point in Season 1 -- we just assumed the two best singers (Kelly and Tamyra) would make it to the finals. Boy, were we wrong! I wish I had a photo of my face when the results were announced -- my jaw was literally on the floor.
2. Three Divas/Jennifer Hudson's elimination (Season 3)
No more needs be said about this one -- the looks on the faces of Latoya, Fantasia, and Jennifer said it all.
3. Latoya London's elimination (Season 3)
Jasmine instead of Latoya? Simply insane.
4. Chris Daughtry's elimination (Season 5)
Slightly less surprising than Tamyra and Latoya's ousters, simply because at this point in the show's run we knew surprising results were possible. Also contributing to the exit -- Elliott, who was presumed to be the most vulnerable, came out firing, and Chris suffered from dreaded voter compacency.
5. Ruben Studdard's first Bottom 2 appearance (Season 2)
Ruben's trip to the Bottom 2 caused Oprah to call her friend Gayle and proclaim "Girl, we need to start voting!" When Oprah is shocked, you know it's big.
6. Constantine Maroulis' elimination (Season 4)
Even though he was considered a favorite, his lackluster Nickleback cover made it less than mind boggling why the rocker got the boot.
7. Ruben Studdard winning over Clay Aiken (Season 2)
After "Bridge Over Troubled Water" I thought Clay had it in the bag. I still think if busy signals hadn't been a factor Clay would have been Season 2's champ.
8. Sabrina Sloan not making it into Top 12 (Season 6)
I'm still sore about this one -- the girl could sing! It only make it hurts more that she lost out on a spot due to Haley Scarnato.
9. Jim Verraros making it into Top 10 (Season 1)
Again, we didn't know what to expect back in Season 1, and Jim making into the Top 10 was just the first of several surprises.
10. Vanessa Olivarez' elimination (Season 2)
Vanessa was definitely not the worst during the Top 12 in Season 2 (I'd give that honor to Charles Grigsby or Julia DeMato), so her early ouster was nearly impossible to predict.
What do you think are the most shocking results in Idol history?
Monday, May 07, 2007
Ten Best 'Top 5' Performances of All Time
Yep, it's time once again to dig into Idol history and identify some of the best performances of all time. This time around, it's the Ten Best 'Top 5' Performances.
Click here to read Ten Best 'Top 6' Performances
Click here to read Ten Best 'Top 7' Performances
Click here to read Ten Best 'Top 8' Performances
The most famous runner-up tops this list, with two other runners-up and three winners also making the cut. This is also the first time that a contestant has had two songs on the list, and the recipient of this honor is not who you might expect it to be!
There were also so many good 'Top 5' performances that I decided to include a few more as honorable mentions. Enjoy...
1. Clay Aiken, "Solitaire"
This is one of those magical Idol performances, where everything -- singer, song, lighting, timing -- come together to create something truly memorable. Until Clay wrapped his golden vocals around this song, it was just an old Neil Sedaka chestnut. Once Clay got through with it, to paraphrase Mr. Sedaka himself, it was Clay's song forever. Truly astounding.
2. Tamyra Gray, "A House is Not a Home"
Simon called this performance one of the best that he had seen on television ever. While that may be a bit of an overstatement, there is no denying that Tamyra felt every single word of this Burt Bacharach classic, proving that she had the chops of a modern day Dionne Warwick. Bringing the audience, Paula Abdul, and herself to tears, Tamyra totally nailed it.
3. Carrie Underwood, "Bless the Broken Road"
Every once in a while a contestant gets the chance to sing a song that gives the audience an idea of what kind of music they will put out if/when they achieve success after the show. Giving an understated yet beautiful spin to this Rascal Flatts tune, Carrie did just that -- proving she more than had the chops to become a successful country music artist. With this performance she launched herself (and Rascal Flatts) into the stratosphere.
4. Katharine McPhee, "Black Horse and the Cherry Tree"
What Carrie did for Rascall Flatts, Katharine did for KT Turnstall. Boldly performing the entire song from a kneeling position (something she would repeat a few weeks later with "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"), Katharine flirted with the band members and the audience, and brought a youthful spark to this infectious tune. A perfect song choice and a near-perfect rendition.
5. Trenyce, "Proud Mary"
Trenyce must have known she didn't have a shot at cracking the Top 4 back in Season 2, but that didn't stop her from giving it her absoulte all on the classic Tina Turner song. What could have been karaoke-esque turned into a dazzling showcase for Trenyce's performance and vocal skills. She still got the boot, but this performance has lingered in the memory.
6. Latoya London, "Don't Rain on My Parade"
Latoya + Soaring high notes = Heaven. It's a hard song to do justice to, and Latoya just nailed it. Barbra Streisand, eat your heart out.
7. Fantasia, "What Are You Doing the Rest Of Your Life"
Speaking of Babs, Fantasia took on another of La Streisand's songs, and once again showed off her amazing interpretational skills. I mean, no one feels a song like Ms. 'Tasia. Dedicating this tearjerker of a song to her daughter, Fantasia left nary a dry eye in the house (in my house, at least).
8. Trenyce, "Love Will Keep Us Together"
Yes, surprisingly it is Trenyce who is the first performer to grab two spots on one list! Flirty and fun, Trenyce absolutely killed this song, making some wonder if they should have taken the one-named shoplifter more seriously earlier in the competition. Despite her strong one-two punch, it proved to be too little, too late.
9. Kelly Clarkson, "Walk on By"
Kelly has called this her least favorite Idol performance, but I love the way she showed off her lower register, wrapping her blues-y tones around the Burt Bacharach tune. I'd be lying, though, if I said that I haven't always wanted to hear her sing her original song choice for that evening, "Anyone Who Had a Heart." Now that would have been amazing.
10. Justin Guarini, "Look of Love"
How appropriate for Justin to sing about the "Look of Love," when he had been giving the camera that same gaze all season! Dressed, appropriately, in a flowy/hippie-esque shirt, this was Justin at his breeziest and sexiest. Easily one of his best performances.
Honorable Mentions:
Chris Daughtry, "Renegade"
Diana Degarmo, "Come On Get Happy"
Diana Degarmo, "Someone to Watch Over Me"
Kimberley Locke, "Where The Boys Are"
Latoya London, "Too Close for Comfort"
RJ Helton, "Best That You Can Do"
Friday, April 06, 2007
Ten Best Top 8 Performances of All Time
Yep, it's time again to take a glance backward into Idol history, to choose the Ten Best Top 8 performances of all time. The list is topped by two former winners, and features the most heated battle for the #1 spot yet. In the past the Top 8 round has provided us with some classic performances, including two songs from musicals, four Queen songs, and two songs that have been reprised during the current season of Idol. (As a reminder, performances from the current season are not eligible for on any of these Ten Best lists)
Without further ado...
Ranking the 9th Place Finishers
Ten Best Top 9 Performances of All Time
Ranking the 10th Place Finishers
Ten Best Top 10 Performances of All Time
Ten Best Top 11 Performances of All Time
Ten Best First Finals Performances
Ten Best Semifinals Performances of All Time
1. Fantasia, "Summertime" (Season 3)
This is probably the most acclaimed Idol performance of all time, and with good reason -- it is simply stunning. 'Tasia had already proven by this point in the competition that she had undeniable vocal chops, but when she sat on the stage, singing and feeling the classic Porgy & Bess song like her life depended on it, she took herself and the viewers to another level. Idol has often been criticized for being a glorified karaoke competition, but Fantasia transcended that notion by miles, providing the kind of breathtaking experience only a true artist can. Simply magnificent.
2. Kelly Clarkson, "Natural Woman"
In any other week this performance would have easily grabbed the #1 spot -- this week, however, she just misses out on that top spot thanks to Fantasia's brilliant "Summertime." If Kelly had announced her arrival with "Respect" and continued to impress with "You're All I Need," it was this spectacular showing that she really displayed how much talent there was underneath that endearingly dorky persona. Dressed to kill in a tie and hat, Kelly handled the vocal demands of this song flawlessly, even hitting a Mariah Carey-esque whistle note in the middle, a vocal feat that hasn't been duplicated on the show (or by Kelly) since. Sheer brilliance.
3. Latoya London, "Somewhere"
'Tasia may have stole the show during the Top 8 week in Season 3, but Latoya also showed off some serious chops on this classic from the musical West Side Story. Effortlessly scaling the vocal demands of the song, Latoya soared as she sang "Somehow....some day...somewheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeere." It gives me chills to even think about.
4. Paris Bennett, "The Show Must Go On"
With Mandisa having been given the boot the week before, Paris stepped up to fill in the void as the resident diva of Season 5, bringing drama and stellar vocals to this Queen song (which I had never heard before this performance). In so doing, she revealed she was capable of much more than just singing jazzy standards. Hopefully we'll see a little bit of Paris' rocker side on her upcoming album.
5. Constantine Maroulis, "Bohemian Rhapsody"
Yes, here's Constantine again -- at this point I guess I really can't deny that he did provide some memorable performances during his tenure on the show. On paper this performance should have been a disaster -- but somehow, Constantine pulled it off, transcending kitsch to give a bonafide showstopping performance. I still don't really want to buy the guy's CD (if he ever releases one), but I've gotta give him his due for this undeniably entertaining performance.
6. Rickey Smith, "Endless Love"
Compare Chris Sligh's massacre of the Lionel Ritchie/Diana Ross duet to Rickey's incredible vocal performance of the song, and there is no question who comes out on top. Rickey scaled the high notes of this song (both Ritchie and Ross') magnificently. While I wasn't Rickey's #1 fan during his time on the show, there is no denying that the tone of his voice, coupled with the beautiful melody of this song, was a match made in heaven. Well, maybe there is denying it, since Rickey was voted off after this performance!
7. Jennifer Hudson, "I Have Nothing"
In a week when Fantasia and Latoya both tore the house down, the third diva, Ms. Hudson, was not far behind, taking a Whitney Houston song and hitting it right out of the park. Momentum was building for the girl, after her astounding "Circle of Life" the week before, and she did not disappoint with this stirring rendition. LaKisha sang the song well this year, but her rendtion doesn't hold a candle to this Oscar winner's.
8. Elliott Yamin, "Somebody to Love"
By this point in the competition Elliott was really starting to find his footing, and he continued to show his funkiness by bringing a soulful, smoky flavor to this Queen song. Not Elliott's strongest of the competition, but an excellent showing nonetheless.
9. Katharine McPhee, "Who Wants to Live Forever" (Season 5)
Supposedly this was the song Mandisa was supposed to sing had she not been kicked off the previous round, but it's hard to imagine anyone else other than Katharine wrapping her golden vocals around the soaring Queen tune. Again, not Katharine's best of the competition, but certainly worthy of a spot on this list.
10. Josh Gracin, "Amazed" (Season 2)
I've become a much bigger fan of Josh Gracin since he left the show than I was when he was on it, but this performance of the Lonestar hit allowed Josh to perform well within his pop/country comfort zone, and, for once, he scored a slam dunk.
Ranking the 9th Place Finishers
Ten Best Top 9 Performances of All Time
Ranking the 10th Place Finishers
Ten Best Top 10 Performances of All Time
Ten Best Top 11 Performances of All Time
Ten Best First Finals Performances
Ten Best Semifinals Performances of All Time
Friday, March 30, 2007
Ten Best Top 9 Performances of All Time
Here we go again...on to the Ten Best Top 9 performances of all time.
This list actually surprised me more than any of the previous ones, as it includes performances from several contestants (Constantine, Kellie, Ace) who I would not necessarily consider myself a huge fan of. It's always fun when a contestant surprises you and puts forward a performance you didn't see coming. Apparently, the Top 9 is a round full of such surprises.
Ranking the 10th Place Finishers
Ten Best Top 10 Performances of All Time
Ten Best Top 11 Performances of All Time
Ten Best First Finals Performances
Ten Best Semifinals Performances of All Time
1. Jennifer Hudson, "Circle of Life" (SF: #8)
I loved Jennifer from the moment I laid eyes on her in her initial audition, but through the semifinals and the first few rounds of the finals, she seemed to be struggling to fit her huge vocals with a performance style that worked on the small screen. With this astounding performance, however, she showed exactly what she is capable of, transforming an already moving song into a soaring anthem. Showing dazzling poise and impeccable vocal abilities, Jennifer stole the show with this performance, impressing Elton John, the judges, and the audience alike. She may have won the Oscar for Dreamgirls, but as far as I'm concerned this was her first really award-worthy performance. Spectacular.
2. George Huff, "Take Me to the Pilot"
After a bit of a rough start to the finals, George came roaring back with this joyful, soulful, and playful performance of the Elton John tune -- a performance that was so full of life it was nearly impossible not to enjoy. This is easily George's strongest performance, as well as the best male performance of that year's competition.
3. Constantine Maroulis, "My Funny Valentine" (Top 12: #10, Top 10: #4)
Let's just say I don't consider myself Constantine's biggest fan -- yet, here he is for the third time on one of my "Ten Best" lists. I guess I have to acknowledge that I enjoyed his performances more than I thought I did! This one may have been his very best, as he got to show off his musical theater training and really give a classy vocal performance of the beautiful standard. It may not have quite the level of vocal sophistication that Melinda Doolittle brought to it this season, but it was pretty dang good.
4. Clay Aiken, "Everlasting Love" (SF: #4, Top 12: #3, Top 11: #2)
By this point in the competition it was abundantly clear that Clay could sing just about anything, but when he put his stellar vocals together with a fun, uplifting song, the effect was never more enjoyable. Making it look effortless, Clay once again wow'ed his fans with this fantastic performance.
5. Latoya London, "Someone Saved My Life Tonight" (SF: #1, Top 11: #10)
Latoya could hit a series of high notes to bring home a song better than almost any contestant in Idol history, and she showed off those skills on this soaring version of Elton John's ballad. Her final notes are simply breathtaking.
6. Ace Young, "Tonight I Wanna Cry"
Again, I am as shocked as many of you probably are to see Ace's name on this list -- let's just say I really was not a fan of the pretty-boy back in Season 5. However, his tender and well-sung version of the Keith Urban song really was quite excellent and rather moving-- it was the best fit between singer and song that Ace found during the entire competition.
7. Nikko Smith, "One Hand, One Heart"
The theme for the Top 9 during Season 4 was Broadway, and while Carrie and company chose mostly boring standards from 50's musicals, Nikko managed to put a contemporary and soulful spin on this beautiful ballad from "West Side Story." This was my favorite performance from Nikko -- unfortunately it was also the performance that got him voted out.
8. Katharine McPhee, "Bringing out the Elvis" (SF: #10, Top 11: #6)
I wasn't sure how Katharine was going to fare during country week in Season 5 -- she didn't exactly have much of a twang in her voice, so song choice was crucial for Ms. McPhee. In wisely choosing this soul/country tune, she brought some sass and attitude to the proceedings, and proved that she's capable of singing just about anything.
9. Kellie Pickler, "Fancy"
First off, I must admit that I am a huge sucker for this song -- the tale about a girl who is encouraged by her mother to be a hooker has a soft spot in my heart, and Reba McEntire's version is one of my favorite tunes. And while Kellie certainly doesn't reach the level of Ms. Reba in this performance, she showed some spunk and pluck, and a surprisingly competent singing voice, in this performance. It was "country week," so she should have done well -- and, for once, she did.
10. Trenyce, "I'm Every Woman" (Top 12: #6)
I would like to propose that Whitney Houston's "I'm Every Woman" and "I Have Nothing" be permanently retired from the competition. Trenyce was one of the first to sing the song on the show, and although Vonzell Solomon would end up singing it better a couple of season's later, I must commend Trenyce for her very entertaining version. Always in the shadow of Ruben, Clay, and Kim L., with this performance Trenyce found a way to make herself stand out.
Ranking the 10th Place Finishers
Ten Best Top 10 Performances of All Time
Ten Best Top 11 Performances of All Time
Ten Best First Finals Performances
Ten Best Semifinals Performances of All Time
Friday, March 16, 2007
Ten Best Top 11 Performances of All Time
Last week, prior to the start of the Top 12, I came up with my list of the Ten Best First Finals Performances over the years. Aside from the fact that it's always fun to make an Idol-related list, I think it's interesting to see how this year's crop matches up against the best performances from the past. Now that the first week of this year's performances have been completed, I would probably include LaKisha and Melinda's debut Top 12 performances on this list.
So, I'm going to continue this exercise with a list of the Ten Best Top 11 Performances of all time. This is a slight change from last week's list, as I have left off Season 1 contenders (since there was only a Top 10 that year). Kelly C. and company will return to the list once we get into the Top 8.
(I should also note that while I consider myself a pretty solid Idol historian, I did have to do a bit of research to find out which songs were sung which week...I've only got so much room in my head!)
1. Carrie Underwood, "Alone"
She may be a country singer through and through, but there's got to be a little bit of 80's rocker lingering inside Carrie Underwood. If not, how to explain this transcendent performance of the great Heart song -- big hair, even bigger voice. Sure, she basically just stood in the middle of the stage and sang, but she sounded so fantastic (blending gorgeously with the very talented back-up singer) nobody would dare complain. This is one of my top 3 favorite Idol performances of all time.
2. Clay Aiken, "Somewhere Out There"
Yes, that last note was a little wonky, but Clay showing his sensitive side on this tune from the beloved film An American Tale only further endeared him to the growing minion of Claymates. This, I believe, was also the debut of Clay's trademarked batting of the eyes...as he crooned and gazed into the camera, you could almost hear 50-year old women across the country shrieking. A Clay classic.
3. Kimberley Locke, "Home"
Kimberley had fumbled big time in the Top 12 and found herself in the Bottom 3 the first week out, so she needed a strong performance to rebound and make herself a contender. And did she ever deliver with this fantastic performance of the Diana Ross song from the musical The Wiz, producing a rich and soulful sound (as well as showing off her newly straightened hair) and holding the final note for what seemed like an eternity. As much as I love Melinda, this, to me, is the definitive Idol version of "Home."
4. Paris Bennett, "Fever"
When we first saw Paris in her initial audition she showed off a preternaturally sophisticated performance style and an impossibly souful, old-school flavor. She brought that back in this spectactular, jazzy performance, effortlessly evoking Billie Holiday and Ella Fitgerald. Paris' strongest performance by a mile.
5. Fantasia, "You Were Always on my Mind"
At this point in the competition during Season 3 people were starting to wonder if Fantasia was a one-trick pony, but this performance shot that notion down right-quick. Feeling every moment of the Willie Nelson classic, this was the first glimpse of the "Summertime" that was soon to come.
6. Katharine McPhee, "Come Rain or Come Shine"
Now that her CD has been released and she is trying to establish herself as a current pop artist she seems to be modeling herself after, of all artists, the Pussycat Dolls, but as far as I'm concerned Katharine is never more of a star than when she is singing old school torch songs, like this Judy Garland gem. Looking sensational and sounding as good as she ever did, Katharine was truly glorious in this performance. Perhaps on her next CD she'll realize where her strengths lie and return to this kind of music.
7. Chris Daughtry, "Walk the Line"
How was Chris going to handle country? That was the question coming into Season 5's Top 11, but he tore into this Johnny Cash tune in a way that seemed modern, relevant, and, most importantly, authentic. Yes, it turns out he was using an arrangement previously recorded by the group Live, but in this performance Chris showed how a real rocker performs on American Idol and still holds on to their musical integrity.
8. Amy Adams, "Sin Wagon"
I had dismissed Amy Adams as a nonentity by the time she came out to close the show in Season 2's Top 11, but she brought the house down with a rousing version of the Dixie Chick's song. Playful and well-sung, I actually prefer Amy's version to the rendition Carrie gave in Season 4.
9. Elliott Yamin, "Teach Me Tonight"
We knew Elliott had a great voice coming into the Top 11 of Season 5, but he really connected with this little-know 60's song, jazzing up his performance style and really connecting with the audience for the first time. As the skillfullness of his vocal runs became abundantly clear, he announced himself as a real contender for the title.
10. Latoya London, "Ain't Going Down"
Josh Gracin had butchered this Garth Brook's mouthful of a song in Season 2, but Latoya redeemed it, giving a sassy and soulful spin to the country tune. At this point in the competition you had to wonder -- is there anything Latoya can't sing?
Ten Best First Finals Performances
Top Semifinal Performances Ever
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Top Semifinal Performances Ever
As we head into the final week of this year's Semifinal round, I thought it might be interesting to take a look back at what I see as the Top 10 Semifinal performances through the years.
A couple of notes on this list:
- This year's performances are not included
- Starting in Season 4, the format changed from voting contestants into the Top 12 to eliminating the lowest polling contestants from the competition, so Season 4 and 5 contestants had 3 Semifinal performance, versus just 1 for contestants from Seasons 1-3.
And, the list...
10. Katharine McPhee, "Since I Fell For You" (Season 5)
Although she was dressed rather plainly in jeans and a top for her first Semifinal appearance, the effortless way Katharine handled the runs on this Barbra Streisand tune made it clear she was gonna be a contender.
9. EJ Day, "I'll Be" (Season 1)
A replacement for a contestant kicked off the show (the very first of many!), EJ shocked (shocked!) both the viewers and judges with an octave-scaling performance of the Edwin McCain hit. Even Simon had to acknowledge the stunning vocal work EJ displayed. He would only last one more week in the competition, but this performance is not a bad legacy.
8. Jennifer Hudson, "Imagine" (Season 3)
Clad all in white, Jennifer stared down the camera with her wild eyes as she belted the heck out of the John Lennon classic. While the viewers did not vote her through (she squeezed her way into the Top 12 as a wildcard), this performance alerted viewers that this girl could siiiiiiing. Although, having said that, I can't imagine a single viewer thought to themself, "In a few years this time this girl is gonna be an Oscar winner." Funny how American Idol life works!
7. Bo Bice, "Whipping Post" (Season 4)
Until Bo Bice picked up that mike stand and went to town on the Allman Brothers Band tune, the closest thing AI had to a rocker was Justin Guarini (and that ain't too close). With this performance Bice, who had received very little screen time coming into the semifinals in favor of fellow "rocker" Constantine Maroulis, established himself as a showman, a vocal talent, and the "credible rocker" of Season 4.
6. Kimberley Locke, "Somewhere Over The Rainbow" (Season 2)
Sure, she sang this song in her initial audition, and by the time she reprised the performance in the second week of semifinals (which also featured Ruben Studdard and Clay Aiken) there was already some "Rainbow" fatigue, but her controlled and beautiful rendition of the Judy Garland chestnut made clear Season 2 wasn't just going to be a boy's race to the finish.
5. Fantasia, "Something to Talk About" (Season 3)
That voice. Those lips. That sassy personality. Ms. 'Tasia announced her presence to the world as the final performer of week 1's semifinals in Season 3, and never looked back. Flawless.
4. Clay Aiken, "Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me" (Season 2)
His initial audition was shocking for the discrepancy between the way he looked and sounded, and his semifinal performance of the Journey classic "Open Arms" was great, but it was his stunning Wildcard rendition of the Elton John tune that really put Clay Aiken on the map. Standing tall in the center of the stage, looking confident but not cocky, he saaaaaaaaang his way into the hearts of millions. This was the moment, I believe, that Clay Nation really began to take shape.
3. Chris Daughtry, "Hemmorage" (Season 5)
If Bo Bice started the rock trend on American Idol, Chris Daughtry hammered it home. After a solid cover of Bon Jovi's "Wanted Dead or Alive" in the first week of the semifinals, Daughtry stepped it up about 8 notches on this Fuel song, transporting himself and the viewers to the middle of a slammin' rock concert. Bo Bice may have been credible within the world of AI, but Daughtry took it to another level. Its no wonder he's had such a successful post-show transition into the rock music world.
2. Kelly Clarkson, "Respect" (Season 1)
I know, I know, how could I not put Ms. Kelly at number 1, especially when this was the very first the audience was seeing of the sassy Texan? Her vocal work and irrepressible personality were astoundingly clear as she wailed the Aretha classic, all the while missing which camera she was supposed to be looking into. (If you can get your hands on this performance, it really is a must watch, as Kelly adorably, and consistently, is looking anywhere but where the camera is). Coming into this week, Justin was the one to watch. At the end of the week, it was Kelly people were talking about.
1. Latoya London, "All By Myself" (Season 3)
I can still remember the moment when I literally fell off my bed as Latoya hit the impossibly high note in Eric Carmen's ballad....Anymooooooooooooooooooooore. Jaw. On. Floor. Aside from Kelly Clarkson's first performance in the Top 10, this may be the most surprising performance I have ever seen on the show, made all the more so because we had not seen Latoya onscreen for even one minute leading up to the semifinals. Her personality ultimately ended up disappointing me later in the competition, but her vocal work in her first performance is truly unforgettable.
Thoughts? Agree? Disagree? Did I miss something? Let me know.
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