Season 7 in the Books: David Cooke Wins Idol!

Was I surprised...not really. I knew when Simon apologized to him that he was pretty much the winner. Not to shabby of a finale. I was a little bored, but Cooke's performances seemed a little more polished than David Archuletta's. Either way the top three this season will end up with record deals, David Cooke, David Arculetta, and Syesha Mercado.
I would like to take an opportunity to thank all of you who have read and listened to the podcast all season (just about 40,000) of you - and from almost every state in the US to as far away as Australia. Also thanks to those of you who tuned into our 'Idol Thoughts Live' shows - the archive can be found at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/IdolThoughts

The site will be active during the offseason, and we'll be doing podcasts about once a month to keep you updated on the latest happenings with the show as we head toward Season 8 next January and have a great Summer!

Thank you again for all of your reactions and support.

- Justin Phillips
http://www.idolthoughts.us
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/IdolThoughts
http://justinphillips.voices.com

Idol Thoughts: Finale: David vs David

Well, it was sort of boring for me...in all honesty. Both had great performances. Lets start with David Cooke. (I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For). He was very comfortable on stage and it showed. His vocals were perfect. (Dream Big, 2nd song) was pretty good. I liked the lighting, plus it had some pretty solid tempo. His third song (The World I Know) was pretty solid too, but could have been seen as safe. The judges killed him on all three performances of the night.
On the other hand, David Archuletta(Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me), was alright. It was the 'Clive Davis' pick of the night, as U2 was for David Cooke. (In This Moment) was a total YUCK for me...vocal was okay, but the song was horrible, and I don't know why he rehashed 'Imagine'. We've heard that before.

Overall it could go anyway, if you've listened to the podcasts and read the previous blogs you know how I feel. I'm pulling for David Cooke.
Don't forget, you can download the performances from the entire season from all the contestants by clicking the ITunes link above.

Let me know your thoughts, email me: idolthoughts@clearwire.net

Heading into the Finale!

Well it's the battle of the David's...David Archuletta vs David Cooke.

I received some rather entertaining emails over the weekend from folks across the country and their thoughts on the final two this season.

Dalena wrote in and said: David Archuleta should take this season's title in American Idol. He has a voice that no others have. It's very soothing. He seems more down to earth then David Cook. He's still young, but he proves that the young ones, can go far and do better and he told us that by making it to the finale. As for David Cook, he's very talented. His voice has a mixture of rock quality with his range. But at times, he can be a little arrogant and full of himself. But I have to admit, Cook's voice is quite strong & could take Archuleta's anyday. But we already have many people with Cook's voice and none with David Archuleta's.

  I agree with her statement. Archuletta would be a breath of fresh air, but does America want another young person to grow with or a more seasoned rocker who already has all the established musical gifts that a slightly older generation can grow with?

When all is said and done I feel that Archuletta will probably win out since most of the voters are younger and LOVE him.

Julia wrote in and said: is for sure the best. maybe he doesn't have the stage presence of cook but he has the most powerful voice ever! and i believe this is a singing competition! I personally do not think that cooks vocals are strong at all. i think he would be good in concert but not on a cd.

   I understand what she is saying, Archuletta's voice would be fantastic on a CD as well, but David Cooke could be equally entertaining. Who would I rather see in concert? Probably David Cooke, but I'm also a 32 year old male. Either way they are both phenomenal performers and will both have record deals.

As far as who will go farther in their career, Archuletta is the one to beat. I think the 'rock' sound is somewhat diminished now with Daughtry, Bo Bice, Creed, and now David Cooke - although is version of 'The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face' was amazing. Cooke is the more versatile performer in my mind. I think David Archuletta could get there, but he's young and will have a great following for a long time.

Elizabeth wrote in and took the 'youngness factor' approach:

David Cook is much better looking and is so much more of an all around talent. 

David A should not win this thing for his own good.  He's got a great voice, but is simply much too young to handle that will happen next. 

David Cook is mature, sexy, with a great stage presence -- not the golly gosh gee persona the 'other' David can only put forth.

 

I agree with her on the point of being young and vulnerable going into the music business, and with a father who has a short temper and doesn't like 'producers' very much. His career could start off on the wrong foot. On the other hand, David Cooke 'knows' what he has and what he can do and is already prepared for the next 'level.' It seems as though he has been since about two months ago.

More on this in the podcast. Don't forget you can download any of the performances this season by clicking on the ITunes link above.

David vs David

So Who Takes the Title?
do you like either choice? Of course, David Archuletta has the teenie bopper vote for "Cutest Idol", and David Cooke has the older vote for "Cutest Idol".....so who's it gonna be?
let me know..post a comment below or email us at idolthoughts@clearwire.net

Check out the latest podcast...Ken Barnes USA Today blog is mentioned, plus Syesha's interview and a shorter Results show next season. Check it out above....

and don't forget you can purchase any of the songs from this season right on this page!
Click the ITunes link above..

JP

Idol Thoughts: Fever Right off the Show...

Talk about a BAD song choice...it was what doomed Syesha on American Idol.
Don't forget you can purchase any of the songs this week, and this season by clicking on the ITunes Idol Link above.
Starting off the night was David Archuletta, (And So It Goes, With You, Longer Than)
His first song was solid and a nicve way to start the evening. I'm not quite sure he decided to go after a Chris Brown song second, it didn't fit him at all and Dan Fogelberg last (albeit Producers choice) I totally did not get whatsoever. Although David has a pretty loyal following and a stronger fanbase than any other contestant this season.

Syesha(If I Ain't Got You, Fever, Hit Me Up) - her performance of the first song(Alicia Keys) was solid, but safe in my mind. I'm not sure why she sent cabaret for the second song, but her vocal was solid and I don't think she deserved the criticism from the judges for her performance. Her third song was a little off, upbeat, but I didn't get it. Her fanbase could have grown by leaps and bounds last night, but with the judges comments I think she blew it.

Third was David Cooke, (The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face, Dare You to Move, Don't Wanna Miss a Thing)...ok, the guy is ready to go. I think it was a little political to sing Don't Wanna Miss a Thing with Diane Warren(the writer) in the audience, but it was solid.

I feel bad for Syesha who got this close to her dream, had some bad song choices and is headed home. More about that in the podcast, posted shortly. You can check it out by clicking above.

Let me know your thoughts.... email: idolthoughts@clearwire.net

Idol Thoughts: Top 4: Who Shot Their Chance....

the show last night was somewhat dull for me. Some of the performances were great, several were forgettable, and two of the contestants, in my opinion played it very safe. Don't forget you can click the 'ITunes' link above to purchase any of the music heard on this seasons show.

Down to four contestants and starting off the night was David Cooke. (As we did last week we'll recap both performances at once.)

Overall it was a pretty standard night for David Cooke. He started the night with (Duran Duran) Hungry Like the Wolf, solid vocal..I would have liked to see him involve the audience a little more, maybe use the stage behind the judges. His second song (The Who) Baba O'Riley was HIS song of the night. He hit all the notes and will propel into the Top 3.

Up second last night was Syesha. Her first song was more show/performance than straight up vocal. (Tina Turner) Proud Mary. I wasn't sure if she had the attitude to pull it off, but she did a pretty good job. Her second song came from her heart, (Sam Cooke), a Change is Gonna Come and was performed as good as any of the performances of the night.

Third of the evening was the disaster that was Jason Castro (Bob Marley), I Shot the Sheriff and (Bob Dylan) Mr Tambourine Man will send him packing tonight. I feel bad for Brooke and Carly.....

Fourth on the night was a very solid David Archuletta on Stand By Me. There was an emotional connection. He's learning to 'talk to the camera' really well. His second song of the evening (Elvis) Love Me Tender, was a nice way to end the evening.
Some solid and safe performances and one clearly headed home.......

For more, check out the latest podcast listed above and if you haven't had a chance yet, check out the latest 'Idol Thoughts LIVE' show we did last week by clicking the BlogTalkRadio link at the top of the page.

What were YOUR Thoughts on this weeks performances...Let me know at idolthoughts@clearwire.net

Idol Thoughts: Top4: Rock and Roll All Night...

Don't forget to check out our 2nd LIVE Show, Idol Thoughts Live to the right.
Let us know your favorite Rock and Roll songs by clicking comment below, or email us
at idolthoughts@clearwire.net

Idol Thoughts Live!

We had another Idol Thoughts Live show on BlogTalkRadio!
Check it out on the BlogTalkRadio Listen Live Link....


JP

Idol Thoughts: Top5: Snoozin' With Neil

I do like Neil Diamond, however I was bored last night. The contestants both had two songs from a vast library to choose from, we heard from the judges once and Neil looked pretty good for his age too!
Don't forget you can purchase the full versions of the songs heard last night by clicking on the ITunes link above. We're going to break down both performances as we go along from each contestant. Up first was Jason Castro.

Jason seemed a little less charming last night, but did what he could with his song choices. In the end, I'm not sure it's going to save him. (Forever in Blue Jeans.) I enjoyed this version, it was nice to hear a different voice on it, he seemed like he was having fun with it as well. (September Morn), this version was vastly different. It was like he was trying to channel Neil while singing. He wasn't as comfortable and it may just cost him.

David Cooke second, (Alive, All I Really Need is You), the latter was his better performance for the evening. There were more emotional 'guts' to it. this guy is ready to go and sell records now. He's pretty much above and beyond the rest of the field this season.

Brooke, up next started(I'm a Believer), if there is anyone who should sing and not do anything else, it's Brooke. She seemed very uncomfortable playing/strumming the guitar and trying to stay on mic as well as on pitch. It seemed a little hokie to me. She redeemed herself nicely(I Am I Said) with her second song. Just her and a piano and a very emotional vocal. She was in her element.

David Archuletta, (Sweet Caroline, America). I enjoyed the first performance better than the second. He was having a great time and his vocals were pretty good too. It sounded like the mic popped on America about 3/4 of the way through, but solid performances from Little Davie.

Syesha needed a solid comeback week and got it. (Hello Again, Thank the Lord for the Nighttime.) The first song was poignant and a very solid performance. It was nice to see Syesha hitting some of those notes. Her second song was upbeat and had a different sound all together. She was able to put some 'attitude' into the song, which was nice to hear with a female singing.

Overall an okay night, the winners David Cooke and Syesha. The Bottom two: Brooke(that first song was pretty bad) and Jason Castro(he just didn't resonate as anything that was very memorable on the night for me.)

Check out the podcast for more on last night, and don't forget Natasha Beddingfield and Neil Diamond performing tonight on the show.

Let me know your thoughts on last night. Shoot me an email: idolthoughts@clearwire.net

Idol Thoughts: Carly No More....

I was a little upset at the vote last night as Carly heads home after last years struggles with her Visa and returning this year. Ending in the Top 6 is bitter sweet, but we'll hear from her again.
This upcoming week is Vocal Coach Neil Diamond...lots of tunes to pick from and I can't wait to see what David Cooke does....let me know what songs you would like to hear by clicking 'Comment' below.

We'll mention them in tomorrow's podcast...

thanks,
JP

Idol Thoughts: Top 6: Music of the Night...Not Too Shabby....

The theme of the evening ws the music of Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber. It was a great night to hear what the contestants did with these Musical numbers. Some stayed to form, others took the arrangements in different directions. To get the evening started was a very well dressed Syesha...
Syesha(One Rock and Roll Too Many(Starlight Express) was a great song to start off the evening. Uptempo, she showed some attitude and looked awesome and was totally having fun. This was Syesha's comeback week and did she ever need it. She needs to use this week as a confidence builder for the coming weeks to remain in the competition.
2nd, Jason Castro, (Memory from Cats), his version was lacking personality. In the end it looked as if he almost said to himself, "I'm glad that's over." He should have gone with a different song. It was boring to me. His vocal was okay, but it didn't really do that much, it wasn't memorable. Jason is definitely in the bottom three this week.
3rd, Brooke, (You Must Love Me, Evita) was more like...its starting so dull. You MUST Start Over! - this is the second time she has done this and she may be burned on it tonight. (More on this in today's podcast.) She needed to go with the flow of the song. Her performance lacked because of her starting over and her nerves completely showed. Not a great performance, but fanbase could possibly bail her out this week.
4th, David Archuletta, (Think of Me - Phantom of the Opera), was, in a way, a breath of fresh air. I could see his version and hear it on the radio. He took a theatrical song and turned it into a pop ballad. He delivered it very nicely and broke up the monotony of the night somewhat for me.
5th, Carly, (Jesus Christ Superstar), rocked out pretty good. She had fun on stage, and that's part of the game. I'm not sure that performance will keep her out of the bottom three, but David Archuletta's fanbase is bigger than her's. She'll remain in the competition, but may fall into the bottom three this week and be 'safe.'
6th, David Cooke (Music of the Night - Phantom of the Opera), was a haunting version of a signature 'musical' song. He delivered it perfectly and this guy can sing the phone book and people would buy it. He added to his rising stock last night.

the bottom three this week...Brooke, Jason and Carly..who heads home and Brooke's 2nd "Do Over" will be among the topics discussed in the podcast. Don't forget you can purchase any of the performances by clicking on the ITunes link at the top of the page and we'll catch you on Friday with your Post-Week comments.

Let me know your thoughts. Click 'Comment' below....

JP

Idol Thoughts: Top 6..Composing a Masterpiece?

This week it's coach Andrew Lloyd Webber. Think Phantom of the Opera....What do you see the contestants performing this week. Let me know below...

JP

Your Idol Thoughts: Favorites and Firsts....

There was a caller this past week who asked the judges their first albums they bought. So I thought we would use that as a forum this weekend. Click 'comment' below and tell me the first album you bought, or your favorite song or album. If you have a story about it, share it as well.
I'll include it in an upcoming podcast or as a topic for the next 'Idol Thoughts Live' show...

JP

Idol Thoughts: Top 7: Can We Carey a Tune?

For the first time this season, Idol stepped into the world of today..well, more along the lines of about 15 years ago, but it was better than it has been. Mariah Carey was the vocal coach and some of her biggest, and not so biggest hits were performed. (I'm really glad that one one chose to do 'Glitter'.
Before we get into the performances, don't forget you can purchase any of last night's performances by clicking on the ITunes link above. Getting it all started last night was David Archuletta.

(When You Believe) - probably not the best performance I've seen from him, but it was solid. The teenie bopper vote will more than likely put him through, but he is a choice for me for the bottom three this week.
2nd, Carly, (Without You), this performance was the beginning of people sounding like Mariah..almost till the end. However her performance was pretty good and she looked like she was getting into the emotion of the song.
3rd, Syesha, doing a song not as well known as the others, (Fantasy), her song choice was a little awkward, I understand she is trying to get away from the more popular tunes, but it may have cost her the competition. Vocally she was very good.
4th, Brooke(Hero), she did a great job with the performance, but I think America is getting tired of tired, slow sounding Brooke. I do realize this is her bread and butter, but do something original and different, or go home. (She may not have much of a choice soon on the latter)
5th, Kristi Lee, (Forever), I enjoyed this performance, the 'countrification' wasn't necessary and her high notes were awesome. It was the better of the female performances of the night, if nothing else it was the most upbeat.
6th, David Cooke, (Always Be My Baby). OK, David is ready to go and sell records he is in a totally different league from the other six. It was totally brilliant and at times haunting. He made it his own, which is what the show is all about.
7th, Jason, (I Don't Wanna Cry), it was not a bad performance, I liked the almost latin flair it had, ir reminded me of a Jason Mraz song with his vocals. Solid performance.

I want to know your Thoughts on last night. Click 'Comment' below and tell me who's continuing on and who's leaving.
The bottom three this week...pretty easy...Syesha, Brooke, and David Archuletta.
Who's headed home. Check out the podcast listed above....

Idol Thoughts: Fun Weekend and The Top 7

First off, thanks to all you who listened and participated in 'Idol Thoughts Live' - our first live show...we're going to do it again in a few weeks...look for details soon.
You can listen to the full show by clicking on the Blog Talk Radio logo on the right.

As far as this week, Brooke needs to step it up or she may be going the way of Michael, Ramiele and those before them. More on the podcast above.....

JP

Let us know your thoughts on the 'Live' show by clicking 'Comment' below.

Idol Thoughts: Top 8, Inspiring Songs, But Art Thou Inspired?

It's Idol Gives Back week, which means, as predicted...songs of inspiration. Some of the performances were good, would I go as far as saying inspiring - probably not.
Don't forget if you enjoyed the performances from this week you can purchase the full length versions by clicking on the ITunes link above.
At this point in the competition I'm looking for 'knock it out of the park' performances. Let's see how the evening unfolded...
Up first, in - at least for the past few weeks - the dreaded #1 slot is Michael. (Dream On)...I enjoyed his rendition of the song, it was a good way to start the night...upbeat, however the judges picked him apart. Simon made a good point saying he should have done a bluesy/jazz version like the song he did last week.
2nd, Syesha, (I Believe) - this may be her week to go. Two weeks in a row, two bad song choices. Of all the songs she could have chosen she sings the 'signature song' of Fantasia, and the judges let her know. Ouch.
3rd, Jason, (Over the Rainbow) This performance was one of the better ones he has done on the show, although the song has seen better in recent years with Katherine McPhee. However, the version he chose was by Iz Kamakawiwo'ole. It was nice and playing the ukulele was a nice touch.
4th, Kristi Lee, (Anyway), it was nice to hear Kristi Lee in her comfort zone doing country, and sounding pretty good as well. Her vocals were solid and she hit some great highs toward the end of the song. Her star is rising this week.
5th, David, (Innocent), was not a song that really had a chance to get into the main stream. He's ready to sell records, but after last night he may have stumbled a little. I think his fanbase will pull him through to next week though.
6th, Carly, (The Show Must Go On), picking a Queen song is always going to get you comparisions, but her version was angry, and on the verge of mad at some points. I like Carly, but her performance last night may drop her into the bottom three this week.
7th, David Archuletta (Angels), the original is one of my favorite songs. David did a pretty good job with it, he used more emotion with the lines toward the end of the song which is what I really enjoy about his singing.
8th, Brooke(You've Got a Friend), it was clear she was singing to some people who were in the audience, but she pulled out every inch of emotion you can pull out of that song. Her rendition was solid, but boring I thought.

Who's in the bottom three? Syesha, Carly, and Michael as far as who is headed home. Check out the latest podcast above...We'll also discuss musical comparisons because there were a lot of them last night....

Now it's your turn, let me know what your Thoughts are. Click 'comments' below

Idol Thoughts: Idol Gives Back...Possible Song Choices

It's Idol Gives Back this week on the show. The big question is..Will they send someone home? If they do...it may not be the person who had the worse performance. It's all about fanbase and this week, with many more people watching someone could be in serious jeopardy of winning this competition.
More on the updated podcast listed above...plus, give me your possible 'inspirational' performances for this week...

Your Idol Thoughts: Idol Gives Back...

The upcoming week is going to be filled with stories and children, all of which are good..it's the kind of week that makes us realize how good we have it in the United States. Last year the contestants performed songs from the heart....what songs do you see the contestants doing this upcoming week. Let me know my posting comments here.

JP

Idol Thoughts: Top 9...An Alright Night for Country....

With 9 performances to get to in an hour, they got right to it. Dolly Parton was the coach and she looked great....sounded pretty good too. Don't forget if you would like to purchase any of last night's performances you can click the link above.
Up first was Brooke(Jolene), song started pretty good and ended on a solid note, and unlike previous weeks it was pretty upbeat. I enjoyed her performance.
Second was David Cooke, who didn't sing like a (Sparrow), but nailed the song. He was as solid this week as he was last, and if not for another guy would have had the best performance of the night.
Third, Ramielle, (Do I Ever Cross Your Mind), after that performance...I would have to say no. There was a simplicity and a blandness about it that made it forgettable and she didn't use her range very effectively. At times she was even hard to hear.
Fourth, Jason, with a fun, upbeat and folky version of (Travelin' Thru), not sure if it will win him votes, but he looked like he was comfortable and having fun with it, which is half the battle with American Idol.
Fifth, Carly slowing things down (Here You Come Again) - I enjoyed the performance, the emotion came through and she was a lot more comfortable this week on stage compared to last week. Carly should be safe this week.
Sixth, David Archuletta (Smokey Mountain Memories), smoked the song. It was the best performance of the night for me. He is back on his game from the past two weeks and the girls love him.
Seventh, Kristi Lee (Coat of Many Colors) - I thought country week would be her strong point, but the judges didn't really see it. She did a pretty good job and not as bad as some of the other girls this week.
Eighth, Syesha (I Will Always Love You) - Syesha is going to be a superstar, but that song could have cost her everything. It's tough to do a song that is going to be compared to the artist who did it best, which is exactly what happened while she was performing it.
Ninth, Michael (All Wrong, But It's Alright) - I liked what Michael did with this song. He made it bluesy and cool. His vocals were very solid, he had a solid night.

Now, the not so easy part. Who's headed home....It's between Ramielle, Jason, and Syesha this week..at least that is my gut feeling. For more, check out the updated podcast above.
Don't forget to leave your comments below....

Idol Thoughts: Top 9...Podcast Updated...

We're previewing the Week for the Top 9..Dolly Parton is the vocal coach...could that mean a country themed week for the contestants? If so, what should they sing...will country girl Kristi Lee do well? Who may be at risk?
A blog listener has some input. check out the latest podcast above....

-- JP

Your Idol Thoughts: Song Choices

The latest podcast discusses some emails I received this past week in reference to David Archuletta's song choice this past week, including some rather strong comments defending him.
Dolly Parton is going to be the Guest Coach this upcoming week.
What songs (Country) should the contestants perform? Let me know your Idol Thoughts by clicking on 'Comment' below and we'll talk about them in an upcoming podcast.

JP

Idol Thoughts: Week 10: Oh How Some Fall, and The Best was Saved for Last....

It was the Top 10 performing songs from the year they were born. Some performances were downright incredible...others were just okay. No one really fell on their faces last night.
Lets get to the breakdown.

Kicking things off was Ramielle, (Alone), albeit not a bad performance, but not the same range of Carly doing a Heart song. I'll give her the fact that she was sick, but she worked through it and started the night on a nice uptempo note.

Second, Jason..back with his guitar (also known as his comfort zone) rebounding nicely this week with his song (Fragile). His melody was right on. I don't believe everything Simon says about him either.

Third was Syesha, (If I Were Your Woman). It was one of those songs that was okay. I would consider it a safe song for her. Here's hoping it doesn't put her into the bottom three.

Fourth, and a bad show order for the contestants was Chikezie. I myself am a huge Luther Vandross fan, and the song he did, (If Only For One Night). His vocals were pretty good, but the judges didn't seem to keen on them. I think Chi may be leaving tonight.

Fifth, Brooke 'restarting' (Every Breath You Take) was almost comical, but she did a great rendition of it. I, like the judges would have preferred just her on the piano to having the band come in. She is so subtly soft with her voice that the emotion really comes through.

Sixth, Michael, with TWO songs from Queen (We Will Rock You, We Are the Champions), these were much better than last week. He saved himself with that performance.

Seventh, was Carly (Total Eclipse of the Heart), not a bad version, but she seemed very uncomfortable on stage. I certainly hope she gets another week. It seems like she was just having a bad day.

Eighth, David Archuletta (???) performing a song I have never heard before. I kind of agree with Simon..it was a theme park performance and he may be heading to the bottom three after that performance.

Ninth, (Proud to Be an American), Kristy Lee pulls off the biggest surprise song of the night. She did it amazingly well and saved herself for this week. Simon was even amazed to which she let out a yell of happiness, which seemed well deserved.

Tenth, David Cooke..(Billy Jean)..David Cook clearly was the guy that is in a different world after last night. It may have been the best performance on the Idol Stage..possibly ever...he's now the frontrunner for the guys.

As far as who is headed home...check the latest podcast.

What did you think of last night? Who's YOUR Frontrunner? Who should go home next week?
Let me know by adding a comment or Meeboing me your thoughts.....

Note: MyPodcast.com - the host of the podcast has been slow of late, please bear with us....
thank you...

JP

Idol Thoughts: Top 10 Preview.....

Now it's crunch time...The Top 10...they all get to go on Tour from this point on. Lets hope that Jason Castro's performances don't cater to the 4 year olds anymore (Michelle)....As far as who's at risk and this season's coaches, Neil Diamond and Dolly Parton are two of them...both legends and both, at times kinda sleepy to hear...For more check out the podcast!!

and don't forget you can interact now with me LIVE during the week right here..Meebo messenger is located on the site!

--JP

Idol Thoughts: Beatles Two: Train Wrecks and Boredom...Oh Wait, that was Yesterday...

Last nights show was filled with confusion. We'll find out tonight who America is going to send home...It could be David Cooke, or Michael, or Kristi Lee Cook, possibly Amanda, Jason or Chikezie. This is where having a fan base counts for everything. We pretty much know who is going to be safe.
As far as my Thoughts on who's headed home check out the podcast.
We may all be surprised tonight with the choice.

don't forget to let me know Your Thoughts on the show. Drop me a 'Comment' below.

JP

Idol Thoughts: Top 11, No Sun, More Fun, and Yesteday's Gone....

As we head toward the Top 10 of this season, I must say last night had a breakout performance for Syesha, some were decent and a few weren't worthy of continuing on to next week.
Here's the rundown.....

Kicking off the night, the WRONG way was Amanda(Back in the USSR), her performance wasn't bad, but we've seen it before. She conversed with the judges that she did a performance that she would do on her 'Tour'. Paula told her she should have slowed it down, which I said in the podcast earlier this week. She may be safe however because there were a few worse performances than hers.

2nd, Oregon girl Kristi Lee Cook...(You've Got to Hide Your Love Away), her showmanship wasn't there, but her vocals were..it was as Randy would say, "Kinda weird for me." She reminds me of a young Shania Twain with her vocal style. Her fanbase should keep her in check so she can "knock Simon's socks off" next week.

3rd, David has a nice rebound from last week, had a great performance(Long and Winding Road), his vocals were pretty impeccable.

4th, Michael tries to tackle a song that seems bigger than him(A Day in the Life), it was a mess. His vocals were everywhere and it was a hard song to cut into a minute and a half. He may be at risk for heading home this week. He gets props for taking a huge risk though.

5th, Brooke(Here Comes the Sun), it wasn't bad, but it didn't seem like a good song choice for her. The 'Whoo" after the first verse almost seemed it was in frustration, but she managed to be herself with the song, however it was a little too much 'yellow' for me.

6th, David Cooke(Day Tripper), it was a surprise for me to see him up there with two microphones, not a big fan of the vocoder, but his performance has been solid for two weeks now. His voice when he gets to his upper range screams emotion. As was said last night, he's ready to sell CD's now.

7th, Carly(Black Bird), her performance was almost Stevie Nicks-like. Her vocals were good and the arrangement was pretty solid, but the judges didn't love it and I enjoyed her performance. I liked it even more after her explanation of "the contestants feeling like birds with broken wings" and she was singing for all the contestants.

8th, Jason(Michelle), Wow was I bored. He didn't seem like he was even 'into' the song while he was trying to sell it. Jason is at risk for heading home for sheer performance 'boredom'. I like the guy but he has lost his 'guy that plays the guitar coolness'...that now goes to David Cooke.

9th, Syesha(Yesterday). the best performance of the night, her vocals were solid and she seems to be in a different league than 2/3 of the other contestants. It was simple, but she pulled it off.

10th, Chikezie, probably not the best song choice(I've Just Seen a Face), but he totally enjoyed performing the song and was having fun. I wasn't much for the 'Countryified' second half of the song, but it worked for him.

11th, Ramiele, (I Should Have Known Better), loved the look she had on stage for the performance and her vocals were good. I don't think it was the best performance of the night, but it wasn't the worst.

YOUR Idol Thoughts: Chikezie Should Be Gone??

First off, thanks to those who commented this week. You think Chikezie should be gone?
I've answered your reason as to why he's not, and we head into another week of the Lennon/McCartney song book coming up.

Check out the podcast --->

Who do you think should be next to go? Let me know your 'Idol Thoughts' by clicking 'Comment' Below.

Idol Thoughts: Top 12...Cooke, Chikeze and Carly Rock, Archuletta Stumbles and Simon Cowell's....

Overall last night’s performances were good, this week one goes home. As strong as some performances were it was easy to pick out the bad ones last night. Ramiele had by far the weakest performance of the night. If she manages to stick around another week it’s in thanks to her fan base. She has a solid voice and showed it last night, but I was bored with the song and I think America was as well. Another possibility is Michael, he’s almost too ordinary right now. I’ll give one more possibility, Amanda..as I said in the rundown, how much screaming can one nation take. If she doesn’t go this week, her’s may be numbered.

As far as who’s going it’s pretty clear. More on the podcast about last night, including Chikeze, the new set and look, plus the ‘bad’ of the night….

Top 12: McCartney and Lennon and Simon....

Last night’s performances were the first nice breath of fresh air on a very young American Idol season. The theme was Lennon and McCartney and all of the contestants did a great job with their respective songs. I was a little surprised by the comments given to Kristi Lee and to David Archuletta after their performances, but more on that in a few minutes. Here is the full breakdown of last night. One goes home tonight…….

The night started with Syesha, introduced by one name by Ryan, starting off the night with a nice uptempo number (Got to Get You Into My Life.) It may not have been her strongest performance, but it was one of the better performances of the evening. Her vocals were fantastic. Syesha is one of the girls in the competition who can sing the phone book and be a star. (the others are Carly and Brooke.

The second performance of the night was from Chikeze (She’s a Woman.) The start of it was interesting and different, and I had no idea the guy had ‘pipes’ like that. He had one of the best performance of the night for the guys, aside from David Cooke who was also incredible.

Thirdly was Ramiele who played it WAY to safe (In My Life) and may be headed home tonight. The performance wasn’t horrible, it wasn’t attention grabbing in any sense.

Fourth, with a nice bounce back from Ramielle was Jason Castro, with his guitar. (If I Fell), his vocal was great and he made it a nice relatively upbeat song. He should be safe this week.

Next(fifth) was the new ‘rocker’ Carly performing (Come Together), which was another great performance. I see Carly getting pretty far in the competition, she may go all the way barring a song choice or sickness disaster.

At this point in the evening there were three breaks, but the blog rolls on.

Sixth up was David Cook, (Elanor) who was the clear winner for the guys, no guitar, just straight vocal which was right on. He is now the frontrunner for the guys in this competition. This ‘frontrunner’ position always changes as we head toward May, but you can pretty much guarantee he won’t be headed home this week.

Seventh was the most emotional performance, possibly ever on the show. Brooke did a phenomenal rendition of (Let it Be) with piano. It was touching and she sang it with emotion.

Eighth, was David Hernandez, whose performance I thought was pretty solid, but the judges saw otherwise, they thought his tempo was to high, I thought he did good, not great, he brought energy to the song.

Ninth, Amanda O and (You Can’t Do That), aside from the fact that her vocal wasn’t great the whole raspy voice vocal on EVERY song is getting old. I realize she is the ‘rocker’ in the competition, but if she lasts another week I would like to see her performing something slow.

Tenth, as we head into the home stretch, Michael (Across the Universe), was an okay performance, it didn’t do much for me, I don’t see Michael lasting much longer in this competition, unless he pulls a ‘Chikeze.’

Eleventh, Kristi Lee’s rendition of (8 Days a Week) the countryified version, didn’t do much for me. It was winey and loud, her vocal was pretty good, but the arrangement was a little off. There were performances that were worse than hers, and here’s hoping her fan base will bail her out this week.

And last but not least, David Archuletta (We Can Work It Out), but he didn’t and he stumbled for the first time in this competition. He’ll be safe however.

The review of the overall and who’s headed home on the way shortly…

Idol Thoughts: Looking at the Top 12...

a new podcast is up for the Top 12....it all starts now...do the wrong song, and you may be gone....
we're taking a look (left to right) -- from AmericanIdol.com at the Top 12...it's the good, the bad and the ugly...check out the podcast and let me know your 'Idol' Thoughts....in the comment section below this post.
We'll be blogging with the show tomorrow night as the performances begin....

--JP

Idol Thoughts: Top 12 Set...a 'possible' look ahead...

well, we're ready to go....a newly crowned Top 12...including Chikeze, which I am very happy about. Looking ahead the dreaded 'Theme Weeks' stare down all twelve of the contestants square in the eye. The latest podcasts looks at the 'possibilites' of who may be a part of the show this year. I invite you to give it a listen. Also, if your just joining us for the first time, the 'Top 12' means things are about to take a step up, including more scrutiny of the performances here on the blog and the podcast as we head toward crowning the winner in May.
If you would like to play 'Podcast Catchup' I invite you to click on the 'Podtrac player' on the right. I will give you access to every podcast cut so far this season.

Feel free to give me your 'Thoughts' on Theme weeks below this entry. I'll share them on the podcast. I'm looking forward to what you have to say....Enjoy the weekend...

JP

Idol Thoughts: Top 8 Guys...80s Week...Wake Me Up Before I Whitney...

Last night was an entertaining evening on Idol...you know right off the bat who 'gets' it and who doesn't. I feel for Luke - he had his chances, but I think his ride on the show ends tonight. David Archuletta on the other had knows 'it' and knows it well. His performance and a few others (David Cook, Chikeze, David Hernandez) used their talent to make the song their own.
Unfortunately I feel that with the rough treatment of the judges Chikeze may be going home this evening as well.
Last year we had Sanjaya...this year we have Danny....dude, what's with the purple hair? Did Barney throw up on you in rehearsal? As entertaining as it's been having a guy with tight pants on the stage I think it's time for Danny to go, unless he has the fan base and momentum to keep going.
As we look ahead to the ladies tonight, Kristi Lee is on the radar - she needs to step it up tonight or she is gone...more on this and the David Hernandez 'stripping' saga on the podcast.

-JP

http://idolthoughts.mypodcast.com - or click the player to the right. If this is your first visit you can listen to all the podcasts by clicking on the PodTrack player.

Idol Thoughts: Top 16...80's is Logical...Right?

Well, they've done the 60s, 70s, and now its the third week...could it be 80s? Pure speculation of course, but if it is...Who's going to step up this week. Will Chikeze get funky? Will Michael do something amazing and Australian? Check out the podcast for the answers to this and more....

-JP

Coming Up Tomorrow: Preview of the Top 8 Women...

Idol Thoughts: Top 10 Women...Carly is the Standard, Brooke Channels Carly and I Hope Asia'h Isn't Forgettable...

Carly was very impressive last night, as was Brooke...after those two it kind of fell off a little. I did enjoy Sayesha's performance even if the judges didn't so much. 70's week was a lot more enjoyable for me to watch and listen to compared to last weeks show.
Their out of the gate now and I look forward to no more nerves for this season, until we get to the Top 10. It's all about song choice and the montages...I talk more about them and my thoughts on who's headed home this week in the podcast.

Don't forget to see what other bloggers said about this week. Visit the IdolThoughts Pageflakes page at http://www.pageflakes.com/IdolThoughts

Idol Thoughts: Top 10 Guys....70s Grooves and Even Some Moves...

I was thoroughly impressed with the guys last night. Some of them stepped it up big time, for example..David Archuletta was incredible with John Lennon which was the best song for the guys side at this point in the competition possibly ever. David Hernandez stepped out of the shadows last night as well with his walk down the steps attitude and Chikeze fell back to old form and and some attitude of his own. It was nice to see the reason some of these guys made it come through in their performances last night.
As for who didn't perform up to par for the show. I'll leave that to the podcast, which is available right now.

Some new features:

I have put together some feeds from other blogs from sites like EW, USA Today, and Newspapers across the country of other opinions on the show. Feel free to check these out.

http://www.pageflakes.com/Idolthoughts

also the PodTrac player links to ALL the Podcasts for this year so if your looking to get caught up, feel free to check it out.

thanks,
JP

Four Gone and Week Two Begins!

It's Week 2 for the Top 20....this week we'll see four more fall short. Who will it be? What will they sing? We'll be here for what happens....Don't forget to check out Ken Barnes at USA Today for more insight.....

http://blogs.usatoday.com/idolchatter/

Check out the podcast for a preview for the week, and don't forget about the survey link listed above. The podcast preview for the Top 20 is now available....we'll catch you back Tuesday night for the Top 10 Guys perform....

-JP

Idol Thoughts: Top 12 Ladies...Better than the Guys, but Simon Didn't Get It??

Well, I'll agree with Simon in one aspect of not getting it...that is making the first week of Idol a 60s theme. The girls were better than the guys and there are certainly some performances that stood out last night. (Mainly the last two.) Carly and Syesha. After that the performances were okay, but not really great. I will give it to the Idol Medical staff for taking care of the walking wounded last night, but there are a few that won't be coming back after suffering an Idol death tonight. Two girls and two guys headed home.
I think Amanda may be in trouble after last nights performance, but there are some that were worse than her. We'll find out tonight......

the podcast is updated from the Top 12 Women's performances. I also talk about Obermeyer's potential exit and why and the guys headed home...check it out..

We'll be back Monday with a preview of the Top 20..
-JP

Idol Thoughts: Top 12 Guys....60s Night Colored More Gray than Psychedelic...

The evening started out great, then kind of fell on deaf ears and ended well enough to have weeded out the great, from the potential great, to the terrible. Simon's comments were dead on..for half the night I'm not sure what exactly Randy and Paula were hearing. Some frontrunners emerged last night, including David Hernandez, David Cook, Robbie Carrico and Michael Johns. Jason Castro had an Idol first, using his guitar and his vocals were solid. David Archuletta, 17, had a nice evening as well. He's the one that can't be adopted. His vocal range is impressive, but he was pitchy last night, at least I felt he was. Those were some of the positives.
On the other side of the coin, there was a cruise ship singer, a few 'color' disasters and Danny Noriega who had no business wearing tight jeans on stage and sounding like a Sanjaya wannabe.
Overall last night was a night to shake off the nerves and have a good time, some did that very well, like in Hollywood. Others were just boring. For the boring ones, you may be headed home..You know who you are. I'm looking forward to the ladies tonight. There is something about songs from the 60s and an attitude that a guy singing just can't do.

--JP

Don't forget the podcast...located at http://idolthoughts.mypodcast.com

Idol Thoughts: Top 12 Guys....

Tonight it's the Hip and Swingin' 60's Theme night for the men (Tomorrow for the women.)
We'll let you know our 'Thoughts' through the podcast and the blog tonight and tomorrow night. So stop back shortly after both shows for the read on who did well, and...who didn't.
Be sure to go to the podcast page and subscribe so when updates are given you are among the first to hear...

-JP

Idol Thoughts: Top 12 Guys....

The podcast is now posted for the Top 12 Guys...Check it out here...

Idol Thoughts Podcast

Also posted there is a show I did last year about possible "Theme" weeks for the show....check it out and let me know your 'thoughts' here on the blog...

The Guys get it all started Tuesday night at 8pm on FOX....it's that time of year again and my fiancee is going to hate me....:)

--JP

A Closer Look at Your Top 24....The Girls....

For the lowdown on the ladies...Click the link to the Idol Thoughts Podcast Below:

Idol Thoughts Podcast

Saying Goodbye to Hollywood....

Well last night on Idol was a shocking 2 hour run of events that included instruments...the musical kind...voices...some not so musical...and lots and lots of blue tongues...pretty funny actually.
Josiah and David Archuletta are the surprises for the guys this year....and the girls..the main surprise is the rocker from Nashville went home....and the girl with a cold stood strong and made it into the top 50...she's one to be reckoned with....Carly, the European girl with the tattoos made it, she was the one from Season 5...
Overall it was a night with too much Bryan Adams....some bad instrument playing, including the drums....(what?)...oh and then there was Simon walking out all together...although it did seem like a long day. I'm not sure if this is the best season of Idol, but there were a lot of changes in Hollywood week, including the second chance..which saved just enough..now we're cutting in half again....from 50 to 24...(Look for a breakdown of the Top 24 on the podcast in the coming days.)

A new podcast is posted now, with a look at the insanity that was last night....

-- JP

Hollywood..Here We Come!

We've just about reached the Hollywood Round!!!
This is where it's make or break...after Atlanta and a Recap show this week.
Next Tuesday night should be a lot of fun to watch...if the promos have anything to say about it...there's a new podcast talking about the cities visited this year, the talent, and the nerves...check it out here:

http://idolthoughts.mypodcast.com

(or on the link in the upper right)


We're in search for a sponsor for this season's show....if your interested...drop me a line at
justin.phillips@clearwire.net

Thanks and we'll be back after a few days off after the First Hollywood Round...

Idol Thoughts: Omaha, Nebraska

To the heart of the country, no one really made my heart do much of anything last night. Some of the women were decent and a good part of the guys were just okay. All will sort itself out in Hollywood in a few weeks...(I'm looking forward to the part where these guys and gals have to do group songs and work together.)
The podcast focuses on what promise there was last night and a few could have been better if not for the nerves, which were really really bad....as were a few of the singers....
Off to Miami tonight to infuse some flair into this years show. Enjoy today's podcast.
Another to come tomorrow!

- JP

Idol in Charleston, South Carolina

Well, Charleston, it was nice to see you.....and it was nice to see you go!
there was some talent there, but for the most part I wasn't really impressed. Of the four cities that have been visited so far this season(Philly, Dallas, Charleston and San Diego), the best talent is between San Diego and Dallas. I do think the judges got a few things wrong last night. More on that in the podcast listed below.

http://idolthoughts.mypodcast.com

Enjoy the weekend..off to Cornhusker land next week...Oh-My! Ha!

Idol in Dallas: Day 2

Well, I'm not sure which was better...Philly or Dallas...the southern crowd seemed to be a little more ready vocally from the Philly crowd. There were certainly several to watch for in both rounds of shows this week. The guy with the cape was a bit much....and it's nice we have another "Clay Aiken" in the competition this year.
Nerves seemed to get a lot of people and I question what Randy and Paula saw and heard in a few people who are on their way to Hollywood....although those selections will always work themselves out in the end. Enjoy the upcoming Weekend...Next week Idol is off to San Diego on Tuesday.
Don't forget to check out the podcast: (Upper right or the link below)

Idol Thoughts Podcast

Idol in Philly: Day 1

Well, Idol has been to Philly, the city of Brotherly love and found a few gems in an otherwise pile of "What were you thinking!" The evening started out with a bang sending the first person through to Hollywood, and I thought, well, maybe they are going to be nicer this year....and after one night they have been. The one resounding quote from Simon this far is "that's right, she looks like Willem Defoe," of course, in reference to Glitter girl Alexis Cohen.
The podcast, listed to the right, has been updated with the Philly show, and will again with the Dallas show on Thursday.
Enjoy and don't forget to let me know your Thoughts below.....

- J

2008 and Season #7 of Idol....

Hope everyone had a great Holiday season....back now for Season 7 of Idol....There is a new podcast listed to the right. Idol Thoughts is working on a little different of a look from last season, so pardon us as we add to the page....feel free to comment as usual..and thanks for visiting!!

-- Justin Phillips