From the Jan. 16 start to May 23's Jordin Sparks' win, season six was a lot of fun.

The Top 24 contestants started out being -- females: Alaina Alexander, Amy Krebs, Antonella Barba, Gina Glocksen, Haley Scarnato, Jordin Sparks, LaKisha Jones, Leslie Hunt, Melinda Doolittle, Nicole Tranquillo, Sabrina Sloan, and Stephanie Edwards. males: AJ Tabaldo, Blake Lewis, Brandon Rogers, Chris Richardson, Chris Sligh, Jared Cotter, Nicholas Pedro, Paul Kim, Phil Stacey, Rudy Cardenas, Sanjaya Malakar, and Sundance Head.

They all got voted off over the weeks. Sanjaya was the season's most talked about contestant and he survived for several weeks, bolstered by radio personality Howard Stern's push. But on April 18, Sanjaya was voted off.

The season also included the Top 6 singers performing inspirational music as a part of the first ever "Idol Gives Back" telethon raised more than $60 million. None of the singers were eliminated, and the votes from that week were added to the votes from the following week to eliminate two singers.

The following week, the show caught Disco Fever. Contestants were coached by Barry Gibb, who performed "To Love Somebody."

The top 3 each performed 3 songs each the next week. Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson predicted that Melinda Doolittle and Jordin Sparks would advance to the final 2 and that Blake would be eliminated. For results night, Ryan said over 60 million votes were cast. And Melinda was booted.

In the last heat Tuesday, Jordin and Blake started strong. But Jordin was stronger in the end and she won the contest Wednesday.

Posted by at 1:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

JORDIN DOES IT!!!! 74 million votes told the story. poor blake.

Posted by at 7:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

bette midler singing "my hero." wow moment.

Posted by at 6:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

jordin and ruben singing "you're all i need to get by!!!!"
green day doing john lennon's "working class hero."
and a very pitchy tony bennett, dawg!

Posted by at 6:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

the show has already has smokey robinson, kelly carkson and a blooper reel to fill time but the highlight so far has been the six girl finalists - kicked off by jordin -- singing a medley of heartbreak ballads, opening with "heard it thru the grapevine." yay!

Posted by at 5:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The show opened with Jordin Sparks and Blake Lewis dueting on the Beatles song, “I Saw You Standing There.” It opens with the line “Well, she was just 17,” which is how old Sparks is. Great opening!

Posted by at 5:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Jordin and Blake are here...Paul, Randy and What's-His-Name are in place and everyone's anxious for the "Idol" finale to finally get off the ground. Half hour to go until the last show of the season starts, a two-hour special where the big winner will be crowned. The crowds outside the Kodak Theatre lined the red carpet for a glimpse of the stars and ... the countdown has begun.

Posted by at 4:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

very good for a 17-year-old. and it helps that she doesn't rub anyone - girls or boys - the wrong way. likeable. is she the youngest idol ever? the youngest contestant? probably. holds herself well. we place our bet on jordin.
we will see tomorrow.

Posted by at 8:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

blake had to cover a so-so middle-of-the-road number written by the winner of the songwriting contest. it was an awful song and blake did his best.

Posted by at 8:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

that country song was terrific. she's sounding better every time she gets on stage. vote for jordin!

Posted by at 8:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

she's turned into something....the contest has done wonders for her. it will be a wonder if she doesn't win.

Posted by at 8:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

paula tripped over the dog the other night and hurt her nose. tonight it's a bit swollen and her voice is all thin and whiny. breaking nose news.

Posted by at 8:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

blake did that beatbox thing pretty well. must've taken some rehearsal to get it right. he's pretty good. his first song: "shot through the heart."

Posted by at 8:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

i was surprised that both finalists - jordin & blake - are from seattle....that's strange because it wasn't one of the most memorable audition cities.

Posted by at 8:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

After weeks of good singing and bad singing, Doolittles and Sanjaya's, we're finally down to the final two. Beat-boxer Blake versus young, innocent Jordin. The two go head-to-head tonight in the American Idol finals. Who are you pulling for? Use the comment space below to tell us who you think will win.

Posted by Josh at 12:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

In one of the biggest surprises of the current "American Idol" season, onetime favorite Melinda Doolittle was voted off the show Wednesday, leaving just two contestants to battle it out for the 2006 crown next week.

Doolittle was considered the best singer of the bunch, but began to draw criticism in recent weeks. The remaining hopefuls are Jordin Sparks and Blake Lewis.

"Congratulations to you two," said judge Simon Cowell, who covered his face when the announcement was made. "My commiserations, Melinda, `cause you are one heck of a singer."

Doolittle, 29, has worked as a professional backup singer before her "Idol" run. Seemingly resigned to her fate, she belted "I'm A Woman" before leaving the stage.

It's anybody's guess who will win at the two-hour finale May 23.

Sparks, 17, has gained considerable traction recently and rose from the bottom ranks to gain momentum.

But Lewis, 25, also has been winning fans lately by taking risks with song choices and arrangements.

Posted by at 1:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

MELINDA, TAKE 1

Fred she's got a voice but the personality is lacking.
Josh she's coming on strong now though
Sem she's trying too hard...but it's a Whitney Houston song, you're screwed anyway.
Sem what was THAT???
Fred she believes in you 'n' meeeee....
Josh she had a good run in the middle and killed it with the high note
Sem this whole performance gave me goosebumps...in a bad way.
Sem like, a rash
Fred i just grew an enormous bunion on my foot.
Sem randy, are you on crack? the best??
Fred randy is desperately trying for credibility.
Sem i think randy's a robot
Sem "that was hot. that was hot. that was hot. that was hot. dawg. dawg. dawg."
Josh can you imagine a conversation between randy and paris hilton?
Fred yeah - hot dawg.
Sem she was NOT the best guys. i'm very distraught.
Josh i'm mad as hell and i'm not going to take it anymore!
Fred i am enjoying my guinness.

MELINDA, TAKE 2

Fred can i watch forensic files now? you kids have fun.
Sem she changes her hair every second.
Josh ryan and i think alike. scary...
Fred tina turner did this so well.
Josh OK, if Ryan beats Simon, how about Ryan-Ty Pennington?
Fred that guitar is horrible. 99 cent store.
Sem Still Ryan.
Josh even if ty has a bullhorn?
Fred the guitar on this song.
Josh he could shout ryan down...
Josh she can do a lot of different types of music..but her lack of personality is going to get her voted off this week
Fred i hope so. she's a bore.
Josh wow, did randy just actually give an opinion?
Sem THANK you. she IS boring
Fred no -- what did i say. i like her more than birdman.

MELINDA, TAKE 3

Sem ok, it's Mel again. whatev.
Josh melinda doolittle way? jesus ass...
Fred it's a great song but the arrangement is terrible.
Sem it was a *yawn*...oh shit, Simon i smiling...
Sem dont say it
Sem simon
Sem dont...say...it!

Posted by S. Debessai at 11:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

BLAKE, TAKE 1

Josh: i thougth he was going to the beat box right there
Fred: he's got that mouth thing again - like a baby bird reaching upwwards for the worm delivered by the mommy bird.
Fred: ...but that's for another blog.
Josh: check it out dog
Josh: yo
Josh: yo
Josh: pitchy
Josh: yo
Fred: little bird mouth but sharp little pointed tongue. strange.
Josh: again - excellent performance for a karaoke bar.
Fred: and tiny sharp teeth. i don't know whether to vote for him or feed him.
Fred: i wonder if he builds his own nests.

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BLAKE, TAKE 2

Sem: i like this song :-(
Josh: it works for him
Sem: (i cant watch the mouth....the bird mouth)
Fred: who does this song in reality?
Sem: Maroon 5
Josh: here it is
Sem: the
Sem: beat
Sem: box
Sem: (shrieking)
Josh: pretty good. would've been better with the lyric change
Sem: (confession: I muted the TV during his first performance)
Fred: that mouth. it really is a strange thing.
Sem: i think all the judges are robots today
Fred: she says that every week.
Sem:: even simon is LESS HARSH. wtf?
Fred: they're down to three ans the ratings are going down, too. they know their days are numbered.
Josh: i'm telling you, one way to solve that: Ryan-Simon Celebrity Death Match
Sem: my money's on Ryan
Sem: he's a firecracker, that one.

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BLAKE, TAKE 3

Sem: if blake wins, i'm throwin a fit.
Josh: it may be worth it just to see your hissy-fit, sem
Sem: i'll throw it i tell ya!

Posted by S. Debessai at 11:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

JORDIN, TAKE 1

Fred: i loved jordin. very good. adventurous.
Josh: wasn't wowed
Sem: i liked her!
Josh: solid, but nothing spectacular
Sem: i've been liking her
Fred: you and a lot of people.
Fred: i have been monitoring the beat of the street - and people are going for jordin.

JORDIN, TAKE 2

Sem: ok, need to focus, it's jordin
Sem: vocally, she's the best tonight...i just hope she doesn't fall in those platforms.
Josh: this is not good...she's flat
Josh: doesn't have the energy the song needs
Sem: she's wearing platforms, she's scared she's gonna fall
Fred: now the blog degenerates into Who Are You Wearing.
Sem: oh come on, there! she sounded good there! right?
Josh: she got better... there was a middle stretch where it was just eh
Sem: ha! i'm wearing you down
Fred: at least they're dolce gabanas.
Josh: i'm actually rooting for jordin b/c i grew up rooting for her dad - which i didn't realize till last week
Sem: wait, who's her dad?
Josh: phillipe sparks
Josh: football player
Sem: weeks and weeks of Idol and i dont know all the little details of these contestants. SHAME!
Josh: played for the giants back in the day
Fred: never heard of him. is he on steroids?

JORDIN, TAKE 3

Fred: great. "i who have nothing." dedicated to me.
Sem: this song is hot!....GET IT Jordin!
Josh: wow...that was really good
Sem: that's the way to end it.
Josh: take that melinda
Sem: yeah!
Fred: yes she was OK. they are grooming her to win.
Sem: shut up simon!
Sem: ryan's there to reassemble their confidence.
Josh: Phillipe'll kick Simon's ass
Sem: who's Phillipe?
Josh: her dad
Josh: the football player
Sem: oh, yes.
.

Posted by S. Debessai at 11:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Getty)

You may not be able to sing like an Idol, but you can certainly attempt to dress like one. When it comes to style, this season has given viewers much to admire (and fear, see: Sanjaya po-hawk...er, whatever it's called).

Whatever the case may be, American Idol season 2 finalist Kimberley Locke is banking on there being more admirers as she (in partnership with the Clothes Off Our Back Foundation) works to give back by auctioning off clothing and accessories worn by America’s favorite IDOL contestants and participants. (With all this good-samaritan-ness, one wonders if American Idol is competing to take the Save-The-World-One-Underpaid teacher/low-income family/self-loathing cheerleader-At A-Time crown away from Oprah).

A week from today (May 21), we'll see how much Sanjaya's bandana* or Phil Stacey's ski cap* (was it that cold in the studio??) will go for. Paula, Simon, Randy and Ryan are also gettin in on all the philanthropic action, donating items from their closets as well (Simon tees*? Oh goodie!).

*It has not been confirmed that these items will be a part of the auction. Sor-ry!

Posted by S. Debessai at 4:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

When Cowell simonized LaKisha last week with an eww-gross lip smack, it turned out to be the sort of omen only a mummy could love. Tonight, America - which has nothing better to do or worry about - voted the big gal off the stage. LaKish, we imagine, was instantly limo'd to the airport and strapped onto the redeye., kicking, screaming and tearfully singing "Stayin' Alive" all the way back to Flint, Mich. Why Flint? That's where she's from - duh.

Most everybody is sure Melinda's gonna win - except for the girls in our Woodland Hills mailroom, who believe strongly in the unseen powers of Jordin.

Posted by at 12:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

If they don't win IDOL...
they'd be great at:

sem: i like jordin! she has more personality then melinda
fred: see, it's about showing the feeling. and she's got the feeling. yes, kiss tonight.
fred: i often think about her friends and family...and there they are!
sem: wow, fred, you called it! who knew the camera would pan to the family...
fred: yup, it never happens but i thought they might.
sem: and do you predict that randy will say "dawg" tonight?...

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

If they don't win IDOL...
they'd be great at:

fred: "stayin' alive," the new fresh scent kitty litter.
sem: haha
fred: oh the head thing. i hate that.
fred: oh the screeching. make it stop.
fred: her friends and family are OK.
sem: i...i dont know...
sem: do you think simon and her will kiss again?
fred: simon says, "no kiss tonight baby"
sem:....guess not then.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

If they don't win IDOL...
they'd be great at:

sem: he frosted his tips again
fred: this one's just frosted all over. again with the baby sparrow's mouth.
sem: i can't look at his mouth now...thanks fred
fred: call the vet and put him out of our misery.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

If they don't win IDOL...
they'd be great at:

sem: uhh, not exciting
sem: she was better last week
fred: bland. no edge.
sem: that face...stop actin scared Melinda!
fred: she's a fake. she knows she can sing and she's acting all "i'm scared and goofy."
sem: or that might just be her face. period. a look more suited for a kindergarten teacher or something...

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The tween (deep down) inside me wanted cuite patootie chris r. to stick around another week. but he, along with phil stacey (whatever), was axed in the double elimination episode last week.

Ok, so now we have Melinda, Jordin, LaKisha and...Blake the Beatboxing Brunet (hey, I thought the frosted tips were working for him, don't you?).

Bottom line: Only 4 left. This should be, what, a 15 minute show, tops?
(I'm an optimist; so sue me!)

*NOTE: that's a sad face over Chris R.'s face (above image), NOT a vampire....we here at Idol Chatter do not belive in any form of vampirism...unless it's during an election year.

Posted by S. Debessai at 2:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

mizrock: mmmmm, bon jovi offering to teach me to rock.......
mizrock: there's a fantasy
sem: he's so cute!
mizrock: oooh, jon KISSED her, that trumps the Lakisha-Simon kiss. You GO girl!
sem: i'm hatin.
fred: ok, this is my fave so far.
mizrock: she's got the walk now
fred: yeah- this is the stuff.
sem: she got the attitude!
fred: yeah-she's so relaxed up there. if you're gonna do that sort of thing, she's doing it.
mizrock: THAT'S my karaoke move!
sem: aren't they all??
mizrock: Mint chocolate and peanut butter/chocolate skinny cows smushed together!

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

sem: oooh, Ryan called him Justin Timberlake....faulty.
mizrock: that's such an EASY song!...this ain't karaoke, chris
mizrock: i can tell he's gonna suck
sem: but i SOdont want him to.
mizrock: there's a breath between the two wanteds, chris
sem: haha, no mercy.
mizrock: why does he look like a constipated cowboy?
sem: i'm just gonna let you rate this one.
mizrock: it's like being stuck at Starbucks with a new dyslexic barista who doesn't drink coffee.
sem: well ok then.

sem: i dont know if my rating system goes with this sort of comment but.....you get the point.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

He beatboxed.
The whole time.
Surprise surprise.

sem: Like simon said, either you hate it, or you love it.
mizrock: i LOVED it. my daughters were screaming down the hall...
fred: blake was merely adaquate.
sem: he was wack!

'Nuf said.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

mizrock: she did NOT get that from victoria secret.
fred: suddenly i want to go to Del Taco
mizrock: mmm, i'm hooked
sem: Not feeling it.
sem: I'm not believing she's in love.
sem: not FEELING it.
fred: i can do without the electric guitar for beginners in the background.
fred: those jeans is gonna split, baby.
sem: haha, that's why she didn't sit with ryan.
sem: what???. simon liked her??
mizrock: holy crap!
sem: they kissed!
mizrock: i think ryan is jealous.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

fred: she moves like a hobby horse.
mizrock: ok, girl, show em
mizrock: dang, she borrowed my karaoke move of leaning on the guitarist...she's not at her best tonight.
sem: straining....it hurts. it hurts to say it hurts. (i love jordin!)

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

mizrock: my prediction: Phil goes for sure
sem: why's he in the crowd...wow, ok, not bad Phil.
fred: i'm buying this guy's voice. it seems to be working.
mizrock: is that jacket country or skater?
sem: Kid Rock's garage sale?
mizrock: the swirly parts on the sleeves look Tim McGrawish
fred: and that knuckle touch with randy was revolutionary.
sem: that was awkward...were they connecting over that song?
fred: i'm going with skinny cow on this one. i liked it. and the knuckle touch pushed it over the edge.
mizrock: ok, i found it. Money on the street good
sem: i dont like the cockiness...he's having a Sanjaya moment right now. (minus points)

Posted by S. Debessai at 7:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

They "gave back" last week.
But now it's time for Idol to taketh away the dreams of not one but TWO Idol hopefuls this week.
Who will it be?
At this point, it can be anyone. But one thing we do know, it's not as painful to watch now that we're in the Top 6.
Right guys?.....
Right??

Oh screw it.

In faith (or in denail), I give you...

The Idol Pleasure-O-Meter (feels good not to hurt anymore)

Posted by S. Debessai at 7:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The fund-raising special included vids of Ryan and Simon in Africa, where they encountered poverty and disease. There was also tape of Paula and Randy finding the same sort of thing back home in the U.S. This tear-jerking "Idol" episode inspired Wednesday's guest co-host Ellen DeGeneres to shell out 100 grand of her own.

Posted by at 10:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Surprising to see Jeff Beck on stage, accompanying Kelly Clarkson on a number. Predictably tame but still nice to see. A diddle here, a diddle there from Jeff is worth three times the diddle from anyone else. Yay!

Posted by at 10:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Tonight's two-hour charity marathon drummed up cash for hungry kids in Africa and elsewhere. Guests included Jack Black, Ben Stiller, Bono, Carrie Underwood, Josh Groban, Kelly Clarkson and Jeff Beck, Annie Lennox, Rascal Flatts and Earth, Wind and Fire.
Eric McCormack of “Will and Grace” said "if everyone who ever voted for Sanjaya donates just one dollar, we could do a lot of good."
True, but we still wish Sanjy was still in the running.

Posted by at 9:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It was charity week at "Idol." So nobody was sent packing. Which means two of the remaining six finalists will be kicked off the show May 2. Our guess is Melinda Doolittle won't have anything to worry about next week either. She was so good Tuesday that she just may be the season's one sure thing. Hey, we've been wrong before....we thought Sanjy baby had a pretty good shot, just for the sheer laugh of the whole thing. But our money is on the Doolittle broad.

Posted by at 9:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sem: Why is she hunched over like that? Is that a sign that a sad song is coming?
Fred: Yeah. they learn that in singing 101 - sad song, pretend you've got curvature of the spine.
Sem: Her voice isn't sounding as good as it usually does.
Fred: Are you saying it's a little pitchy???
Sem: Why, yes Fred, "pitchy."
Sem: Paula just used the word "glorious" to describe her.....now that's just sounds awkward.
Fred: They were unfair to Lakisha and then they overdid the praise for Jordin.
Sem: I blame global warming.
Fred: All this talk about starvation is making me so hungry!
Sem: Ok, enjoy your PB&J...don't forget the -

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sem: Simon looks so out of place at that donation center. Simon picks up can of tuna, chest exposed, "It's a miracle..."
Sem: Hey Fred, they're giving food out to the hungry at Ralph's. "It's a miracle...."
Fred: Wouldn't it be weird if Sanjaya was in line at Ralph's too?
Fred: It would be even weirder if he was working there!
Sem: Employee of the Month: Sanjaya Malakar.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Fred: Ok-- who is this guy? Phil Collins?
Sem: Phil STACEY, Fred. Haven't you been paying attention the past SEVERAL weeks?
Sem: Granted, his head may have gotten smaller since you first saw him..
Fred: Omigod, he looks like one of those styrofoam heads they use to display wigs.
Sem: And suddenly, he can sing!...??
Fred: His mouth is unnaturally large, I was waiting for a giant moth to fly in.
GuestViaText: (speechless)
Sem: He wasn' too bad...I guess that's a compliment.
Fred: And what's with the hand signals? They all think they're air traffic controllers. Stop with the hand signals. you're not landing planes.
Fred: 10 minutes til PB&J time!

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sem: What song was this?
Fred: I've never heard of it before.....
Fred: Yeah -- she's definitely making this up. nobody would write these words for real.
Sem: Too inspirational?
Fred: Something about a rainbow and 100,000 dreams and a red velvet cake?
GuestViaSidekick: Poor Lakisha, she got no love....can't see her under Melinda's shadow.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sem: So, are you gonna go get the potato chips with ridges?
Fred: well, i get those lightly salted kettle chips and they don't the ridges.
Fred: I would ridge them myself but it takes too long to rebake them.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sem: I had a dream Blake was in the Top 2 man.
Fred: Imagine there's no Idol. It's easy if you try.
GuestViaSIdekick: I dont like that high note...or his jacket (hello, Tiny Tim)
Fred: John Lennon never would appear on this show. He'd say "hey, write your own songs."
Sem: His singing's not that bad, I just can't WATCH him sing.
Fred: His mouth looks like a baby robin's mouth waiting for the mom to bring him a worm.
Sem: Yes! THAT'S it!
Fred: After the show I'm gonna go to the store and get potato chips and skinny cow and then have a pb&j sandwich.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Fred: She has a real voice don't you think?
Sem: And a damn good hairstylist...her hair gets better week after week!...no more curse of the "flip"
GuestViaSidekick: Is her gap getting smaller too?
Fred: She's great...I totally agree with Simon for once.
GuestViaSidekick: It is! She's wearing crowns...
Fred: The right food for this show is eggs or a peanut butter 'n' jelly sandwich...
Fred: ...and lightly salted potato chips and a big glass of soy milk.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sem: Oh I like this song.
Fred: Great song. Who's it by?
Sem: Eric Clapton...but I dont know if he can pull it off....
Sem: Oh, ok, now he sounds better.....just close up on the eyes.
Fred: His dancing is like somewhere between a gallop and a prance.
Fred: (eight minutes in and randy already called someone a dog.)
Sem: Is that a record?
Fred: That's a record....I have such a yearning for scrambled eggs right now.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sem: Ok Fred, this is a serious show. Do you have your Skinny Cow?
Fred: No cow. I'm listening to an old Dionne Warwick record.
Sem: Good enough..so this is how they're gonna fill up the hour? I guess that's good, using the power for something...
Fred: IIdol in Africa?...It's like a home shopping network for Madonna.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Idol Gives Back and tonight's show will give you something new to look forward to besides Ryan Seacrest's wardrobe (puts the judges to shame, i must admit).

Here's a hint:

Hosted by

and rumor has it,

ok, you may have already known that (but come on, you like this game).

As for

well, we'll see if he's too busy rubbing elbows with

to grace us with his presence tonight.

Posted by S. Debessai at 2:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

TMZ.com had the scoop:
"American Idol" will raise the dead on Wednesday and feature a
performance with Celine Dion and ... Elvis Presley?!

While "A.I." teased their "Idol Gives Back" charity benefit by
revealing
that "two of the biggest stars in musical history come together,"
sources at last week's taping tell TMZ that Celine sang Elvis
Presley's
hit, "If I Can Dream" -- with an Elvis impersonator! Ugh! But we're
told
the impersonator was just used as a stand-in, and what you will
actually
see when the show airs is Celine singing with a virtual Elvis -- in
the
vein of Natalie Cole and Nat King Cole's "Unforgettable."

Posted by at 5:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

after "idol," simon gave an interview to his girlfriend where he said his eye-rolling was not a result of any mention of the virginia tech tragedy. the camera had caught him on tuesday rolling his eyes at something else - not the mention of the massacre. ok, we believe him.

Posted by at 10:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

sanjaya, the only interesting one this season, went home and with him any off-the-wall fun of the "idol" year. the teen southasian singer was booted off - and we miss him already. sanjaya was developing a sense of the absurdity of the situation and he was almost taking the piss out of this overblown junior high school karaoke contest. but that won't continue. sanjaya was our favorite. it didn't matter if he couldn't "sing." he sounded like all the rest of them. oh well. this has sudenly become the least interesting ""idol" season.

Posted by at 10:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

People who saw the show last night and were paying attention (and had a little more sense) wouldn't have assumed that Simon was rolling his eyes at the Virginia Tech comment. But to those who are overreacting (yes, overreacting), here's the Executive Producer's response as expressed on the Idol website:

"This is a sad time for everyone, so it is especially disheartening that a quick camera cutaway could have been misinterpreted. We're sorry for any grief caused by this misunderstanding, but Simon was not reacting to Chris at that point. He had turned to speak to Paula and didn't actually hear Chris' final comments. Everyone at "American Idol" feels compassion for those affected by this tragedy. We opened the show with those thoughts and Simon later expressed sincere condolences on behalf of the judges, recognizing the challenges we all face in dealing with this horrible event."

- Nigel Lythgoe, Executive Producer, American Idol

Let's stop "fanning the flames" (as Simon put it on Seacrest's show this morning) by making something out of nothing.

Case closed.

Posted by S. Debessai at 3:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Larry: Ok. I gotta say Sanjaya finally goes. Bottom two: Phil and Sanjaya.
Larry: Hair and hairless.
Fred: My faves this week: sanjaya and jordin. Worst: blake.
Fred: Best idea: use of violin in country music. but it'll never catch on.
Larry: Ok, I revise: I say Chris and Sanjaya bottom. Sanjaya gone.
Fred: I cried a little bit tonight.
Sem: From who? Melinda?
Fred: It had nothing to do with the show. it's personal.
Sem: See you next week then?

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Fred: this guy is an escapee from ipsa delta dawn or some other ucla frat...and i don't like his family and friends either.
Larry: That shirt is so preppy.
Sem: Yeah, argyle and country just don't go together.
Larry: The world does not need another wimp....why do they like this guy?
Fred: they like him because he represents all that's good about american boyhood.
Sem: bleached tips?

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sem: her hair keeps gettin flatter and flatter
Larry: she's losing the shyness
Sem: Finally!
Fred: there's that violin again. seems like an instrument that would work well in country music - but i don't know.
Larry: She's too good. It's like rooting for the Yankees. (more sports)
Sem: Game over...she killed it!

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Larry/Simon: One comment: The world does not need him.
Fred/Paula: he seems like an honest enough fellow.
Sem/Randy: Dawg!

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Larry: Lakisha sings great and looks good tonight. Not so revealing.
Larry: Gotta be pretty confident to sing Carrie Underwood. And this might be better than the original.
Sem: Is it supposed to sound like a country song?
Fred: i think she's always a powerful singer no matter what the song is.
Sem: Wow, we're being nice...Let's try this again....

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Larry: Bubaya Sanjaya
Fred: Sanjaya was good tonight i thought. i really mean it. i like him more and more each week.
Sem: Fred. i can't even talk to you anymore now.
Fred: He's the only one that has a bit of "taking the piss" out of it, as the brits say. there's a punk attitude there that i like.
Sem: (If that was a compliment) Snap out of it!

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Hello, my name is Sem...

Sem: Ahhhhhhhhh

...and Sanjaya is performing next.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Larry: Now Jordin looks like that dress is made of plastic...Again. Shiny.
Fred: that is one hideous piece of fabric...looks like something from the sale table at drapery & beyond.
Sem: but let's (try to) focus on the singing....or her teeth
Larry: Yeah, but she's my pick to win. Gets better every week...wow, long note at the end!
Fred: she's the aretha of long notes at the end.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Hello, my name is Fred...

Fred: Can i open a guinness now?

...and A.I.'s hard to swallow...without a drink.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Larry: Good. Get Phil over with. Not a big fan here.
Sem: when did phil get an accent?
Larry: Im surprised he hasnt broken his vocal cords...And he reminds me of that movie, powder.
Sem: no no, where's ur hat Phil?
Fred:why is his head so shiny?
Larry:: that's a shiny shirt too. shiny night.
Sem: not bad...he's bringing bald back.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

My Name is Larry...

Larry: I watch it like sports. I always get behind a team and root.

...and I'm an A.I.aholic.

Posted by S. Debessai at 7:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

tonight, you may feel a little weird inside.

that may be because haley's gone.

or it may just be indigestion.

Our three judges are back and will be blogging during tonight’s show, starting at 8. Watch the broadcast on Fox and see if you agree.

Posted by S. Debessai at 12:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Tonight, country singer Martina McBride will play celebrity coach to the stars-in-training of “American Idol.” McBride is the newest recruit of a long list of musical guests who have appeared this season.

Last Tuesday, Jennifer Lopez led the A.I. troupe through various songs for what had been dubbed a “Latin-themed night.” While the live music was hot, the performances mostly fizzled (even with the most judge-preferred contestants like Melinda Doolittle).

(Getty)

But with feedback like, “It wasn’t horrible,” used by the harshest judge of them all, Simon Cowell, to describe Sanjaya’s rendition of “Bésame Mucho,” one must wonder if the Northwest resident with Indian roots is destined for stardom — or if this is just a sign of the coming apocalypse (i.e. the last season of “American Idol”).

Though with the more vocally demanding sounds of country music being showcased tonight, it is unlikely that the barely audible, breathy serenades (à la one peach-fuzzed Sanjaya) and others' blunderous cha-cha moves of yesterweek will work to get the weakest of the bunch by another round...one can only hope.

(Getty: McBride @ the 2007 CMT Awards)

(Get 'em Martina!)

Posted by S. Debessai at 10:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Us Weekly took a much needed poll earlier this month of the American public's (i.e. 100 New Yorkers, of course) opinion on various hard-hitting Idol-related issues (past vs. present, class vs. trashy, sanjaya vs....sanjaya?).

I say singing is overdone. We should have a full season on who can come up with the best/most unique hairstyles each week...and Sanjaya can judge (he'll need a job after his 15 minutes, I'm sure).

(Data courtesy of The Mayor)

Posted by S. Debessai at 10:24 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

sanjaya is the best idol ever. his besame mucho was a tear-jerker. he took his time and proved he can sing with the best of his fellow idols. this guy deserves the big prize! crown this contender. looking good, sanjaya. the judges agreed. that was really good, said randy and paula. simon said he sang like a 14-year-old but "it wasn't horrible." sanjaya is the next american idol.

Posted by at 8:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

another top-notch latin-flavored groove from one the hootest show's hottest contenders. he's got the smoov moves. even j-lo was probably impressed. randy said it was hot all around; paula said it was a vary smart performance; simon said it was a good choice and good performance. we agree!

Posted by at 8:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

she's got the mystical IT. her best-ever performance. what a gal. she's gonna be around for a while. randy and paula agreed: she's authentically having a great time. simon said it was OK but nothing special. well, we liked her.

Posted by at 8:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

phil looked like a dead end kid for his great performance of maria of harlem or whatever it was. brilliant. get this guy on the road now! maybe his best yet -- everyone's doing great tonight. it's gonna be touch to give one of these guys the boot tomorrow. simon said it lacked originality - but so does everything on this show! hey man.

Posted by at 8:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

wow! disco inferno with legs. no wonder disco couldn't last - it had to burn itself out, it was soooo hot. haley is fantastical. randy called her a dude. oh well. pauls said it was a fun song and haley had fun with it. wow! the other one said her voice doesn't cut it but she should just have fun. we did.

Posted by at 8:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

gosh, that chris really has the latin swing thing down. with a little prodding from tonight's star power guest coach - the amazingly talented j-lo - he covered that rob thomas hit "smooth" like a blanket. he's one really cool dog, sez randy, and paula followed up with "that's hot!" jeepers!

Posted by at 8:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Fabulous! she's our favorite and she did a great disco tune with that "shake your dody" or "booty" or "booya" tune. fantastic. lakisha rules. but the judges were mixed. oh well.

Posted by at 8:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

...Jennifer "dont call me J.Lo" Lopez?

Wowwww. I think J.Lo and Sanjaya should have a hair-off...

...who will win? (Idol, not the hair-off... focus people!)

Posted by S. Debessai at 4:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

josh: i forgot about lakisha. amazing how she went from the clear-cut best to someone that's so easily forgettable.
fred: low-cut best, too.
fred: i still think she's the bestest.
sem: watch out now, she looks like she's gonna pounce!
fred: very feline
josh: ....but oh those pitchy problems
sem: stop throwing "pitchy" into the conversation...haha
josh: i can't help it. it's contagious.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

josh: the big question - will haley slut it up again?
sem: umm, yes.
jsoh: she was on death row before going the skank route...then everyone noticed her legs, and that made them all forget about her voice
fred: yeah. she should be pole dancing at the olive garden.
josh: i'd go for the lunch special
fred: don't have the boston fern salad.
sem: she's supposed to be in love singing this song....why's she shaking her ass??
josh: i'd say she was about as good as that boston fern salad..which are known causes of herniated disks
fred: she was painless! she's red velvet cake all rolled up in cookie dough.
josh: painless to look at, not so much to listen to
fred: you mean you're supposed to have the sound turned up, too?

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

josh: here we go - the highlight of the night
sem: he has a friggin beard!
fred: i think he's pretty good really.
josh: oh no he didn't
sem: oh no freddddd......
josh: he looks like michael caine in dirty rotten scoundrels.....white suit, slicked back hair, hustling us all
fred: america wants a nice cuddly safe hindi it can love.
josh: don't we all?
sem: i want no part of this.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

sem: this is the first day she didn't wear fishnets
josh: sunjaya borrowed them - he's going to come out in them next...
sem: what do yall think?...pain-wise.
sem: she was more like a sedative.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

josh: No pepto necessary
sem: i like her but it just sounded like she was yelling...
fred: why do they always take these big breaths? it sounds like an asthmatics convention.
sem: "the bomb" (randy)...gawd!
fred: I'M ON MY THIRD GUINNESS. ...AND THE CAPS ARE LOCKED.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

sem: her hair keeps getting straighter each week
josh: she's the anti-sanjaya
fred: she's gone right over the edge.
josh: ladies and gentleman, your next american idol
sem: woohoooooo!
josh: but it was a little bit pitchy in parts
sem: boooooo!

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

sem: i'm already hurtin!
sem: he's "one of the better singers" (bennett)?? tony, have you been watching the show?
fred: this guy is eyebrow-pluckin' bad.
josh: he sounds little pitchy...i don't even know what that means - and i don't think randy does, either
fred: it's supposed to be bee-yatchy but the censors won't allow it.
sem: painful
josh: on the operating table
fred: childbirth without painkillers.
sem: "young frank sinatra" (paula)...why'd she insult sinatra like that?
fred: he's reminiscent of a colicky young frank sinatra.
josh: she's confusing him with david hasselhoff

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

fred: he said "meat of the song." meat. hahaha.
sem: i wonder if he'll beat box to this song...how funny would that be
sem: or pop lock
josh: i'm betting he will
sem: i wish he'd stop snapping
fred: yeah . puts the urrr in urban.
josh: i'm going to say he's got a herniated disk, but just a minor one. no surgery needed or anything
sem: fred?? how bad?
fred: it was like a sharp gas pain that doesn't linger.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It doesn't get easier, I tell ya. Each week, you think it might get a little less painful. But clearly, America's out to get the rest of us (the sane ones!)...

So I will stop my pleas (to vote off some people who shall not be named)...and simply let the meter do the talking.

How bad (because it will be bad) is it really?
Only our judges will know...

Posted by S. Debessai at 7:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Ok, ok. So Chris S. is gone. I know the whole cute, cuddly, teddy bear look worked well in the days of Ruben Studdard, but he had a something that Chris didn't...

I like to call it (and Randy, dont even try to take this one): The Sweat Factor

You have to show the judges that you're willing to work for this!

We'll see what the top 9 (lord help us) are working with tomorrow night....see ya then!

Posted by S. Debessai at 4:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

david: They cut into "House's" times? The bastards!
david: Though I must say, I love the way Fox's announcer says, "Viewer discretion ... is ADVISED." Like he's all about the nasty shit.

(AAAAND break.)

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

david: Wow, this montage of the performers would be enough justification for the Bush Administration to attack the Fox Studios.
sem: torture....in short.
mizrock: those are WMDs, for sure
david: So, who do you guys think will win? Melinda?
mizrock: Definitely... I think Sanjaya is going to make it to like the last four JUST to torment America.
david: I think Fox wants to keep Sanjaya on there, for a number of reasons. Why else would they have pulled that lachrymose tot stunt last week?
sem: that little girl?
mizrock: She was on Extra getting a makeover. Her 15 minutes is SO over, she owes America about 30 minutes.....
david: It would've been even better if they had had a Down Syndrome kid weeping for Sanjaya.
mizrock: true.

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

david: "Don't Speak?" How about "Don't sing?"
mizrock: how long has he been working on that beard? four weeks?
david: Did he find that jacket in a dumpster?
mizrock: think so. got the tie from some sixth grader
sem: just look into his eyes...everything will be fine.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

david: My dog: lying in the other room; looking at me bereftly. Maybe he just wants to go for a walk, but I think he's an aesthetically perceptive fellow.
sem: can he blog?
david: At least as literately as i can.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(on the judging)
mizrock: oh, this will be painful, I hope
mizrock: say it, he SUCKED!
david: "You made the most of it:" Like my dog made the most of an empty jack in the box wrapper.
mizrock: WHAT THE HELL?
mizrock: Are Paula and Simon both smoking??

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

sem: i like jordin guys. i may pay attention now.
mizrock: I sing this better in my car
david: I dress better than that in my car.
mizrock: Daisy Duke on steroids
sem: ha! (that outfit IS hideous)
(jordan signals heart to voters)
david: Oh, look: Jordin loves me.
david: She wouldn't lie, would she?

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

david: (So Randy says,) "You tell a story from the very first word that comes out of your mouth?" Is that possible? Don't you need more words to tell a story? Just saying.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

mizrock: Oh, you're gonna love Melinda...as soon as you get over her big head.
sem: awww man, she flipped her hair :(
david: She looks like that woman on Grey's Anatomy who's really bitchy.

(and the first actual music-related comment of the night.....5, 4, 3, 2...)
david: Good voice; hate the song.

(back to your regularly scheduled blogging)
sem: dr. bailey! (i love that show)
mizrock: that's it, I'm wearing leggings into the office tomorrow

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

david: halfway through, ears blood-free...He looks like he's there courtesy the Make a Wish Foundation.
mizrock/sem: LOL!/hahahaha (shame!)
sem: there you go david: the police
(minutes later)
david: I had a herniated disk about 15 months ago, and I thought THAT was painful.
mizrock: i've heard better karaoke..sober.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

david: I was at a Kings game last week at Staples Center, and Seacrest was there, and when the cameras were trained upon him, the boos outweighed the cheers.ou got the sense that the only way the crowd would've approved of his presence was if Rob Blake checked him against the boards.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

sem: OMG, his HAIR!....quick, look away from the TV.
david: And Sanjaya comes out to America.
mizrock: maybe he and Gina can split attorney fees...
mizrock: Remember Sean Cassidy? Now think Sanjana
david: I'm trying not to think at all...that's the only way I'll get through this.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

david: I don't know if it means anything, but my dog just left the room with a most reproachful look in his eyes. He's lost all respect for me.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

sem: she'll be wearing fishnets.
david: Do they ever actually advise these people on what to wear? Because if they do, I would sue them.
mizrock: you'll love gina....
(minutes later)
david: SHE's in the Top Ten?

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

david: Maybe I'd watch if they mixed it up more. For example, why can't they have a Leonard Cohen night?

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

mizrock: why does she look like a schoolgirl?
david: Paula knows about "staying in the pocket."
mizrock: "Eyesore?" (Paula) Ouch
sem: he should've taken off his glasses.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

david: These sorts of gruel-y songs performed in this sort of bombastic way makes my ears bleed.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(guest judge, david, makes it just in time. kick rocks sanjaya!)

david: Paula's still crazy, and after all these years, Simon and Seacrest are STILL gay-baiting one another. Is there anything else I need to know?
sem: ummm, no.
mizrock: I love her.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

sem: i know i promised more testosterone this week but...he couldn't join us. i think the sanjaya fans sent him a threatening letter.
mizrock: so sad...so tonight I am drinking a fine vintage Arrowhead Mountain Spring.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Why Stephanie??? Whyyyyyy???

TONIGHT: Before Fergie stole her sound and Nelly Furtado her dance moves (not to mention her haircut), Gwen was the wo-man for...weird, pop-y, whiny rock music with rap breaks. Stefani will be taking over the role as IDOL music mentor (trying not to laugh too much along the way, I'm sure). Until then...

Posted by S. Debessai at 3:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Women + Wine + SANJAYA stalker = end of a long night.

mel: ladies... your votes?
mizrock: oooh, I like her top
mel: haley has nice legs
mizrock: Haley knows how to play her body
mizrock: Chris needs to learn how to throw himself into the song
mel: he is a bit self contained
sem: i like chris r.
mizrock: Chris just wasn't into the song
sem: but jordin is my first pick
mel: blake still not my fave.
sem: i liked Jordin's energy
mizrock: Jordin rocked
mel: oh yeah, jordin. i forgot. i think melinda will take votes away from her.
sem: probably since the judges LOVE her
mel: PHIL IS GONE.
mizrock: i think so too...Phil needs to say bye bye
mizrock: my dog , Dusty, agrees
mel: gotta keep SANJA for fodder
mel: Woof.
mizrock: Oh please!
mel: Woof. woof.
mizrock: SaNJA SUCKS!
mel: sorry, gina sucked, too.
mizrock: I wish Chris would get behind his song
mel: MELINDA rocks
sem: thanks guys!

Tune in next week for a more testosterone-infused Idol Chatter...promise!

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

mizrock: You have to be old like me to appreciate this, it;'s a song from the musical "Oliver"
mel: ahhh... oliver. they did that at the PCPA in Solvang when i was growing up... memories
sem: the Sanjaya fan is crying again. she needs help
mel: she need to prozac.
sem: i think mel (dare i say it) is kinda boring....but her voice is nice.
mel: i love her voice and polish.

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

sem:i dont have cable ...representing channels 4 through 13
mel: WHAT the??????????? are you human, sem?
sem: only half
mel: ok, i'm good w/ half.

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

sem: i want to give chris a hug and a hair press
mel: the glasses are back on chris this week
sem: thank goodness...glasses were cool in the 60s right?
mizrock: I hate it when they dance with the mic stand
sem: dancing with the mic was cool in the 60s right?
mel: PAULA sit down
mizrock: I' m outta wine

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

During the Sanjaya performance, our online Idol Chatter discussion was interrupted by a crazed Sanjaya fan.

xlruffxryderlx: 1-866-436-5708 - VOTE FOR SANJAYA!!
mel: id yourself xlruffxryderlx or else we'll call the aol police
xlruffxryderlx: 1-866-436-5708 - VOTE FOR SANJAYA!!

Needless to say, we were concerned for our digital safety. We think it's time for Sanjaya to go. It's causing a disturbance in our lives and our loved ones. Vote him off already, America...it's not too late to protect yourselves...or your eardrums.

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

mel: too hard rock chickish for me. i'm a norah jones kinda gal
sem: i need a refill
mizrock: I love the bright red in her hair
sem: i'm scared..is this supposed to be a scary song? what's it called again?
mel: Paint It Black by the Rolling Stones.
mizrock: something is missing. Maybe the rest of the stones?

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

mizrock: Be forewarned, we might not say nice things about him
sem: i'm scared
mizrock: cut your damn hair
mel: when i signed on tonight. he was on the home page and my 3-year-old asked who is SHE, mom? and so it goes...
sem: WHO is that girl that's CRYING???
mel:: that poor, poor girl. and, she probably lives in the valley.
mel: ashley... painful. do metrosexuals like young girls?
sem: omg, she's....a....FAN???!

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

mizrock: (husband) Frank wants to hear Simon tell Sanjay "do the right thing and withdraw"
sem: whoa! haha..
mel: isn't this a family show?????????????.... isn't this a family blog?
(silence)
mel: oh who am i kidding

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

mel: my husband says jordin looks hot
mizrock: This is a great song...her hair looks good!
sem: she's singing with her eyes....wow, musical theater!
mizrock: She's doing fabulous....and Randy agrees with us.
sem: all that praise without one "Yo"....we may never drink again.

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

sem: how's he gonna sing the blues??...i wonder if he's ever HAD the blues
mizrock: He's too white for that song
mel: very scary guy. my husband says he looks like a manequin
sem: no johnny cash....not with that (dress) shirt and Moby bald-cut
mizrock: he's all over the note map and Sarah wants to know who taught him to dance?
mel: my husband says he runs like a girl
sem: your husbands are HARSH....
sem: (they fit right in)

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

mizrock: love the dress....hair leaves something to be desired
sem: whoa, dramatic with the slow turn around at the beginning of the song
mel: she's a real performer. (singing "Diamonds Are Forever")
mel: where is the bling from?
mizrock: CLAIRES

later...

sem: paula just callled her out.... a million dollars worth of diamonds.
in unison: wowwwwww

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

mel: oh baby... here's your northwest boy.
sem: oh is HE from the northwest? oh shit, i was trying to claim chris r....but instead we (washington) gets BEAT BOX BOY.
mel: is he wearing pj bottoms.??!!
mizrock: i think so... why is he whispering
mel: paula, sit your ass down.
mizrock: no you suck....He is SO off the beats, that last note was painful
mel: where do you think he got those pj bottoms? they look so comfy.
mizrock: Kohls

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

mizrock: Patrick Dempsey, Sean Connery
mel: my dream man... that's a tough one. Bruce Springsteen or Harrison Ford.
mel: sem... your dream man/men.
sem: i'm more of a "personality" girl...but i think mark wahlberg is sexy....wait, i need more time to think!
mel: marky mark.... yes. i can see that.
mizrock: Kevin Costner used to do it for me
sem: kevin costner!!?
mizrock: Note that I said "used to"

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

fashion first....

sem: she always looks good.
mizrock: yes.
mel: the jewelry doesn't work for me. but an attractive girl.
mizrock: I love the dress, not so sure about the earrings.....looks like paper clips and pipe cleaners
mel: a little prommy for me

oh yeah....

mizrock: Mmmm. I'll take McDreamy
mel: Oh, wait, is someone singing? It is just that boring
sem: dozing off
mizrock: My husband just snored

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

mel: my husband just said he liked it... sleeping in the den tonight, baby.
mizrock: My husband agreed...Shows what they know
sem: i dont have a husband but if he liked it he'd be sleeping in the den too....(solidarity)
mizrock: we don;'t have a den, but he can sleep on the couch
mel: better than the floor.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

mizrock: I just can't get this guy
sem: Chris is from Washington! my home state!
mel: he is whinnyyyyy. sem... you are such a CAL girl now, forget the Northwest.
mel: now i'm going to be like fred... i'm digging the guitar.
sem: nice eyes
mizrock: yeah, eyes
sem: nice touch, the guitar
mel: on the hot chart, he's a 7 tonight.
mizrock: and the big closeup. Sarah (daughter) says pitchy
mizrock: The last note was a 5th grade talent show and we like him
sem: i have a warm feeling inside...i think it's the baby blue shirt he's wearing

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

mel: first of all, we all must say what we are drinking while watching, it is the only way to watch this w/o tivo afterall
me... a nice firestone ale.
mizrock: Merryvale 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon, Starmont, Napa Valley
mel: nice choice,
sem: mine's cabernet sauvignon, smoking loon, (still learning)
mizrock: Smoking Loon not my fave, but my son drinks it
sem: still learning! plus, it's affordable :)
mizrock: it's popular in Virginia

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

mizrock: Shorts?
sem: the shoes are cute...my roommate says they look Louis Vuitton knockoffs from 2004 (why she knows this, i cannot explain)
mizrock: She's working the crowd well
mizrock: shimmy??
sem: I KNOW, when did shimmying become acceptable?
mizrock: Outside of Vegas, I dunno..."Didn't they do a lot of shimmying in the 60s? You would remember that," my daughter says.
mizrock: she's grounded.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

sem: blue and purple suits ryan.
mizrock: purple and gray seem to be a theme...What the hell is Paula wearing? She's matching with her Coca Cola cup.
sem: we should switch from music commentary to fashion...i know nothing about British pop.
mizrock: This is like saying"these are all the GOOD groups we wanted...but tonight, we'll be settling for.......Herman from Herman's Hermits!

Posted by S. Debessai at 7:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Bye Bye Brandon.

Hello Top 11!

This is going to be a long countdown...

And Idol Chatter will be here...chatting...tonight...about Idol.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Brandon Rogers, who forgot the words to his song in competition yesterday, got the big boot Wednesday - and with him went any chance that a Valley guy or girl would be among the season's finalists.

Rogers, 28, a former backup singer who lives in North Hollywood, was the last of four L.A. residents to be eliminated. You can now officially abandon all hope of something similar to last year's McPheever phenom taking place.

The first of the final dozen to be voted off the top-rated Fox network talent contest, Rogers said he had no hard feelings, especially after stumbling through lyrics to the Motown classic "You Can't Hurry Love" on Tuesday. "I kind of expected it," he said.

So did we. Although most of us predicted Sanjaya would be kicked off first. Close. Sanjaya Malakar and Phil Stacey had the next-lowest vote tallies in the phone ballotting, which drew about 28 million calls and text messages.

Posted by at 9:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

fred: can i stop crying yet?

Posted by S. Debessai at 10:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

sem: my vote goes to diana ross for "best tv performance by a legendary singer playing a legendary singer who gives a damn about these (mostly) mediocre singers butchering her songs (mostly)"
jill: i predict while atonella is mulling offers from playboy, jordin, melina and lakisha will be mulling record deals!
fred: and in two weeks, this blake fellow is gonna be back at a starbucks sidewalk table in brentwood hoping somebody notices him.
sem: my roommate and I are wondering if there's a phone line that is taking votes to cancel out all votes for Sanjaya?

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

jill: does anyone think she sounds like mcphee when she talks?
sem: let's ask the mcphee expert...
fred: yes, the mcphee connection. it's there all right.
jill: and she's sitting just like mcphee did for ''somewhere over the rainbow''
sem: my roommmate is fallin out over this song...she's having visions of little dinosaurs
fred: what song is this?
sem: If We Hold On Together from the Land Before Time soundtrack...classic movie
fred: i don't know about jordin - she has a chance.
jill: i love her. i don't think she'll win with those other two, but she'll be a star
fred: OK, i now like jordin. officially.
sem: that was quick.

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

sem: "you're cute!" (diana)...she said it and America agrees...
jill: "i'm not different than you execpt i'm older" (diana)...ha!!!!!!!!!!!
sem: is she flirting??
fred: yes, she's attracted. it's mating season at the ross household.
jill: he's got a lot of control over his voice...especially when he goes up and down from that falsetto
sem: "falsetto"....impressive, jill.
fred: he's gone right over the top -- it wasn't "dreadful" (simon). it was competent.
sem: jealousy is a sickness....

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

jill: paula in ryan's lap...hmmm?
sem: she's such a cutie!
fred: adorable.
jill: don't really like the dress, but when you sing like that, who cares?
fred: stephanie's slowed this song down to a turtle pace.
sem: this is..i mean USED to be a disco song?...paula sounds annoyed by that.

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

fred: who is this
sem: why is he remixing her song??
jill: i love blake...he's so creative...but diana must be wondering what the heck he's going to do to her song
sem: i think he's trying to compete with chris for the "best justin timberlake impersonation" award
jill: paula's dancing...again...better than crying..

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

sem: ross givin out fashion advice? *taking notes*
sem: um, she sounds really good
jill: ditto
sem:billie (holiday) wouldn't be mad at it
jill: sign me up for a lakisha record when it comes out
sem: fred?

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

fred: hey, did that daylight savings time thing work out OK for everyone?

This moment was brought to you by fred and guinness.

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

jill: eeks!
sem: err
jill: but i actually like this version...best guy by far
sem: which isn't sayin much
jill: the only guys i look forward to hearing are chris and blake...
sem: chris is the cute one right?
jill: yup!
fred: that guy scares me

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

sem: i dont remember this chick
jill: that's because she's so forgettable!
fred: missing you is a good song don't you agree?
sem: yes!
jill: my neighbor could sing better than this
sem: yes!!
jill: i hate to be a hater on everyone, but this sucks too
fred: she looks exactly like katharine mcphee...but why is she swallowing the mic? it's called missing you, not swishing you.
sem: she has that "pitchy" condition plaguing a lot of them tonight
fred: wouldn't a Skinny Cow be good now?
sem: YES!

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

jill: tapping his feet will not help his voice..
sem: people must really like his hair
jlll: not gonna work. this sucks. two words into the song i knew it
fred: he's still a virgin. i can tell.
sem: "sweetest soul" (paula)???? it's the hair. it hypnotizes people. he sucks!
fred: yeah but he's cute and that counts for a lot these days.
jill: HA! he feels like he should be there next week? what else can he say? he was SHOCKED when he stayed and Sundance was booted...
sem: da' nile isn't just a river.....

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

fred: i was just on my roof and everyone in my neighborhood is watching this show. space aliens coule be attacking and nobody would know.

This moment was brought to you by fred and guinness.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

jill: Ha. Gina is so young she called her miss ross
sem: i really like her voice.
jill: i think overall this is average...about as good as Gina could do with a Diana Ross song
sem: "UH YO" (randy)...where's mel when you need her?
sem: she chose the "right song" (simon) but the "wrong outfit" (me)
fred: if someone told me i was "pitchy in spots" (randy) i'd go to the ER immediately.
jill: That tongue ring is so distracting
jlll: Uh-oh...the teenager better known for his hair is next...
sem: Sanjaya....noooo!

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

fred: i have to go up to my roof -- i hear some noises...if i'm not back in three minutes, call the COPS.
fred:... or send carmen electra in a police uniform

This moment was brought to you by fred and guinness.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

sem: "your eyes, your eyes, they tell me how much you care".....ok, NOW i know why he took off his glasses.
sem: to show us how much he cares....*tears*
jill: i think the glasses make him better
fred: this guy looks like a pudding -- but he has a good voice.
sem: pudding?
fred: it's a desert-like RED VELVET CAKE.
jill: man, the girls are going to look even better tonight after these subpar guys' performances

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

sem: Melinda looks nice...she must've gotten a stylist
sem: WHY is diana ross being so NICE?
fred: she's got a gutsy voice. it's a little "pitchy" but it's got power.
sem: why is melinda crying?
sem: why is paula crying?
sem: but simon is laughing...figures.
jill: she's so emotional
fred: simon is so on target -- a young gladys knight. i can definitely see that.
fred: hold it. i have to dry my tears...whenver ryan says "standard text messaging rates apply" i just start to cry. i don't know why..

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

jill: I think Brandon's version is safe, so far...Simon won't like it
sem: ew he cracked
jill: He bailed on that high note...took the easy way out
sem: OH SHIT! he forgot the words AND he's out of breath.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

fred: damn. live audience? how come we weren't invited?

Posted by S. Debessai at 7:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The 12 remaining contestants will be singing the tunes of the legendary Diana Ross.

I wish them luck...I hope some of them have written their apology letters to Ross in advance.

(she'll be watching...ok, no she wont, but still....be afraid.)

Posted by S. Debessai at 11:39 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Posted by S. Debessai at 7:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Producers have announced "Idol Gives Back," where the top six contestants will sing inspirational songs during the regular performance show April 24, plus an extended results show April 25 featuring musical artists and celebrities such as Gwen Stefani and Kazakhstan journalist Borat Sagdiyev (Sacha Baron Cohen). Also scheduled to appear are Josh Groban, Pink, Michael Bublé, Annie Lennox and Il Divo.

For every vote cast during the performance show, sponsors Coca-Cola and AT&T, as well as various other partners, will donate money to the charity. Viewers can make their own donations via telephone and Internet during the extended Wednesday results episode.

"When we were approached by Richard Curtis [co-founder of the U.K.'s Red Nose Day charity], Simon Fuller, Simon Cowell and CPEF about this project, we felt it was a natural fit," said Peter Chernin, president and chief operating officer, News Corp. "For the past five seasons, viewers have fulfilled the dreams of the contestants. Now they have the chance to help us change the lives of children and young people in need and at risk, here in the U.S. as well as in Africa."

Posted by at 7:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Tears flowed as the road ended for four more “American Idol” contestants Thursday, leaving a dozen finalists to compete next week.

Given pink slips were Studio City singer Sabrina Sloan, Antonella Barba, Jared Cotter and Jason "Sundance" Head, who were cast off by voting that drew about 37 million calls and text messages.

The elimination of Sloan surprised judge Randy Jackson, who said she “should be in that top 12. America got that one wrong."A choked-up Sloan seemed to agree.
Barba, the focus of media scrutiny after racy photos of her surfaced a few weeks ago on the Internet, was shown the door to nobody's surprise. Judge Simon Cowell repeatedly said the girl wasn't up to snuff.

Cotter reacted to his elimination by telling host Ryan Seacrest he was "very" surprised. But Cowell insisted he had to spend more time on his vocals and less on his looks.

When Head was knocked off, judge Paula Abdul said she was speechless. “This is a singing competition, and Sundance, you've been one of our finest."

Thursday's show also featured a performance by "American Idol" winner Carrie Underwood, who recently snagged a Grammy for best new artist. She sang "Wasted," a song from her hit country music album "Some Hearts."

Posted by at 9:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Brandon Rogers of North H-Wood remains the last hope for Valleyphiles of seeing a local yokel in the competition. Studio City's Sabrina Sloan, axed tonight, will soon be taking up position at a sidewalk table at the Starbucks next to Bookstar, where she'll spend the next few years hoping to be noticed. It's a hard job but highly rewarding.

Posted by at 9:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

mel: our vote... who is gone: Antonella and Antonella...and Haley, if there is a God.
fred: my votes go to melinda and lakisha - i believe in them. and i think america is gonna give eviction notices to sabrina and stephanie. double "s" curse.
sem: they give "S" names a bad name
mel: next week the drinking game is everytime randy says, "CHECK IT OUT"
sem: bet!
fred: there's a bug on my wall.

Posted by S. Debessai at 9:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Melinda Doolittle sings "I'm A Woman"

sem: is she trying out for Dreamgirls??
sem: the hair, the fit, the attitude...
mel: fred and my husband wanna play in her band!
sem's roommate: someone doesn't suck.
sem: (simon says) "you little tiger"....is simon flirting???
mel: I think Simon is turned on. Scary.
sem: melinda's the only one who DOESN'T want to hug ryan.
fred: hahahahaha, ryan. i wouldn't hug him with simon's washcloth.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Gina Glocksen sings "Call Me When You're Sober" by Evanescence

sem: she's a little weird with the whole "this is my pillow...this is my stuffed frog..this is my retainer" intro
sem: nice voice (really)
mel: nice red bra
mel: fishnet on the arms...pierced tongue?????????????????????????
mel: pull your dress down gina
sem: yes mom
sem: fred?

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

LaKisha Jones sings "I Have Nothing" by Whitney Houston

sem: did ryan just say "up in da house"????
mel: oh, ryan, get a clue. you are a pasty white guy.
mel: LaKisha has the biggest voice of all. she is for real.
sem: something doesn't sound right with her singing this whitney song
fred: see, i really like these big girls. i think they sing the best. there's something about all that tummy room for the notes to slog around in.
fred: she's my absolutely fave.
mel: my husband says she looks like she is wearing a trash bag...having actually worn one once, i disagree.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Stephanie Edwards sings "Sweet Thing" Rufus with Chaka Khan

mel: from our guest judge... josh k.... we wonder when ryan will ask someone to touch is monkey (c) Dieter
mel: stephanie left no impression w/ me tonight;
sem: i just called her sabrina...oops.
fred: yeah. she's OK.
fred: i liked her enough to stop thinking about buying a new toothbrush...
sem: what kind?

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Haley Scarnato sings...I have no idea.

fred: haley has a throaty voice. she would make a good lifeguard in the kids pool.
sem: what song is this?
fred: it's called "stars in the heavens, broken glass in my bum." it's a very sad ballad.
mel: drink drink drink!
sem: um, Carrie Underwood already won, sorry sweetie. Not gonna happen.
mel: ooooo simon is showing some cleavage

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Antonella Barba sings "Put Your Records On" by Corine Bailey Rae

sem: YAWN
mel: yes, but nice lipliner and gloss...GONE!
fred: why are her lips so moist? she's glistening. i can't take my eyes off her upper lip. she's liptastic.
mel: gotta drink half a drink everytime randy says YO DAWG...i'm drinking cheap chianti, you?
fred: guinness.
sem: the commercials are better than the contestants...
mel: my husband just tivo'd it back to see how bad she REALLY is
mel: i think i might have to drink some more now.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sabrina Sloan sings "Don't Let Go" by En Vogue

fred: sabrina looks like a mean witch.
mel: screw that, she's hot! and she's our little valley girl.
mel: I predict paula will say how beautiful she is.
.................
sem: bingo!
fred: she could sing the red velvet cake recipe and make it boring.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Jordin Sparks sings "Heartbreaker" by Pat Benatar

mel: i loved her. she's on to the next round.
mel: better than all the boys!
sem: she's adorable!...makes ryan look 4 feet tall though
sem: fred, what's ur opinion on jordin?
fred: i love him. i think he has lots of potential.
sem: fred!
sem: she's a girl!

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

...that the women are much more entertaining than the men last night.

melissa: Ryan kinda looks like Dieter from SNL tonight.

here goes!

Posted by S. Debessai at 7:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chris Sligh

sem: I'm sorry, but he's the best so far.
liz: I like his originality, voice and his cute puppy dog look.
sem: What? why is Paula hatin. she just wants a cute face :(.... he looks like one of the Osbourne kids though.
fred: Yeah i think Chris has a very good chance so far.
fred: He said "the cinnemon" of the song and he meant "sentiment."
sem: Still...I may actually vote for Chris...if I actually did that sort of thing.
fred: Yes, i too refrain from that sort of pre-marital public display.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Paul Stacey

sem: WHOA! Horrible!
liz: Leave the hat on. he scares me when he takes it off.
sem: His high note just scared me....i just yelled outloud.
sem: "the hat, the big eyes...all appeared very odd"...simon, that's mean (but kinda true)
liz: I agree with simon, no outstading performances so far.
fred: Ok...i was thinking about getting a dog.
sem: Really???? what about the hat guy?
fred: A yorkie.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Brandon Rogers

sem: Hmmm
sem: I dont know how ifeel
liz: Brandon is really good!
sem: Lots o energy, but "phenomenal"?? really Paula?
liz: Wow, i agreed with paula for a change and she is speaking really clear tonight.
sem: Fred?

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Seacrest is asking dumb questions.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Jared Cotter

sem: Argyle and Stevie Wonder? Doesn't quite fit.
liz: He looks like a nerd and this was not a great song choice for him.
sem: He'd be sexy if he was a doctor, just not on American Idol...and lose the Bert eyebrows.
fred: Jared seemed super comfortable. the guy has confidence.
liz: Yes, he belongs in the top 12 but he has to pick better songs .

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chris Richardson

sem: Justin, we've found your brother, JT II.
sem: He may just win it...Paula's got stars in her eyes!
fred: he sounds OK, but it would be better with a freshly sprouted beard.
liz: I love him vocals are awesome, smooth style.
liz: Simon better back off of Chris, he is my favorite out of the guys.
fred: Warning: first grandma reference of night. chris dedicated his song to the old bird at home. simon didn't like it much: "cutesy, nasally, timid and safe."
sem: Can't hate a man who loves his granny.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sundance Head

liz: Sundance Head need to lose the hair and find a new song
sem: yes
sem: again with the mousse!
liz: Lately I have been agreeing with Simon and that scares me.
fred: Sundance Head with the glued-on beard had an unusual song choice - Pearl Jam's "jeremy." people should try more glued-on beards on this show.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sanjaya Malakar

sem: what was that?
sem: that's like ashanti trying to sing an aretha franklin song
sem: just blah
liz: it seems like his timing is off.
liz: If Paula doesn't like it, you know it's bad.
fred: i thought this guy was a girl at first. he has a girly voice. and he's pitchy big time. that guy is signing in the key of oklahoma.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Blake Lewis

fred: why is blake lewis wearing pajama bottoms? what is this? PJ night? i don't know if he's even singing in English.
sem: am i tired of white guys who look like that
sem: Gel, spray, mousse, i dont care, stop doing it!
liz: I like him, but i didn't like his song choice.

Posted by S. Debessai at 8:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Everyone's sick of Fred Shuster's meaningless ramblings - especially Fred Shuster. So, we here at Daily News "Idol" HQ are bringing in two more "Idol" experts for a judging roundtable on tonight's show - DURING tonight's show. Join us at 8 and straighten us out with your opinions and thoughts on the competition. We're waiting for YOU!

Posted by at 3:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

West Hollywood's Alaina Alexander, Leslie Hunt, Nicholas Pedro and A.J. Tabaldo were sent home. HAA!
We were almost right. We thought Les would remain. But the problem was both Les and AJ chose to cover Nina Simone's "Feeling Good." And their efforts canceled the other's out. Both got the sack Thursday.
An emotional Alexander, 24, couldn't get through her reprise of that overrated Dixie Chicks song, "Not Ready To Make Nice," and broke down on stage after Ryan ordered her back to Santa Monica Boulevard. She can now be seen on a daily basis sitting at a sidewalk table at Starbucks talking loudly on her cell fone while hoping someone notices here.
Pedro was kicked off after his attempt at the old Sinatra routine had everyone gagging.
AM I WRONG? We need some input here, folks or we'll have "American Idol" taken off TV.

Posted by at 8:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

WHO'S YOUR FAVORITE SO FAR?? Stephanie, LaKisha, Melinda, Sundance, Antonella, Nick, AJ, Sanjaya, Sabrina, Haley, etc.?? We neeeed to know now......

Posted by at 8:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

and I'm going to Vons.

Posted by at 9:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Another dedication to granny! Sabrina Sloan, 27, the Studio City gal with an unnatural -- maybe even annoying - amount of hair, did Whitney Houston’s “All the Man I Need.” Gulp! Weird song. Horrible lyrics. Nothing melody. And Saab was far from pitch perfect. In fact, if this bichon was living next to me and tried this, I'd call 911. But please-like-me Paula said she was "fantastic." Simon said she confused power with shouting and should never, ever, cover Whitney, "but you'll be back next week" Ryan: "She's a player in this competition." The outdoor tables at the Starbucks next to Bookstar are safe for another week.

Posted by at 9:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Bordering on the insane (as Simon put it), Haley Scarnato's manic cover of Whitney Houston’s “Queen of the Night” had some of the night's rare rock energy. But as Randy pointed out, it's more a showcase for the background singers than the featured vocalist ("That's why she chose it," Simon sneered). No biggie, but not the worst of Wednesday. She'll last another seven days.

Posted by at 9:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The problem, Leslie Hunt, is "you just got whacked by several other people" in the contest, sez Simon. Like LaKisha and Melinda, for example! But Hunt, 24, is cute as a bug. And nonthreatening to the female audience. She's the niiice one. She won't steal your boyfriend. But she made the mistake of covering “Feeling Good,” which AJ Tabaldo sung in boys competition last night. It was OK, but didn't leave much of an impression. Still, Les is safe for another week.

Posted by at 9:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Antonella Barba, 20, is all over the Internet in a wet t-shirt. Is it her? Who cares? Whatever - it was yet another talking point for the show that finds new ways each week to remain in the public eye. Nobody mentioned a thing about it on the show Wednesday. But Antonella bettah put on that wet t if she wants to salvage her chances cuz Celine Dion’s “Because You Loved Me” was just baaad. Not wicked, just bad. (mitigating factor: Randy called her “drop-dead beautiful”) Maybe she'll get the sympathy vote and stay awhile. I mean, who on this planet hasn't been photographed in a wet t-shirt?

Posted by at 9:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Everyone knows by now, don't they? LaKisha Jones, 27, has it. She's gonna be in the finals. Her throaty version of Gladys Knight & the Pips’ “Midnight Train to Georgia” -- dedicated to her gran -- was predictably solid. The best singer so far this year. Simon said she needed more "force." And added she should really think about dressing better.

Posted by at 8:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

She's not Kat, OK?But she looks good. West Hollywood kitten Alaina Alexander, 24, tried to fight back from last week's negative comments from the panel. Her version of the Dixie Chicks' “Not Ready to Make Nice,” wasn't terrible. Simon said her performance was as if Randy Jackson competed in a 100-meter race - but ran out of steam after 75 meters. The panel did agree she was nice to look at. In the next few weeks, West Hollywood is going to once again see Alaina Alexander traipsing up and down Santa Monica Boulevard hoping someone to recognizes her.

Posted by at 8:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

"Cop" is on. Who doesn't love "Cops?"

Posted by at 9:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

We here at "Idol" HQ wanted Bandon to do OK. The North Hollywood kid is cute. We like his hair. We like his clothes. But we don't need another lame version of "Time After Time." You don't need to be a musicologist or an Amoeba counter clerk to know there are only two versions of that song: Cyndi and Miles. ENUFF SAID. Who liked it? Please-Like-Me Paula liked it. The rest gave it a Lankershim Boulevard thumbs down --- which these days usually meams bloodshed. Bye, Bye, Brandon. He gone be leavin' Las Vegas.

Posted by at 9:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Poor Chris Sligh, 28, Greenville, S.C.. He's a good singer. Yeah, he's OK. Average in real life, but better than average in the "Idol" universe.
And he's got the sort of back story the viewers love. Dedicating his song to his wife, who made sure he stayed with singing even with the WOLF AT THE DOOR, Chris' cover of "Trouble" worked out OK.
Hey, didn't some guy named Taylor pull of the same old tune last year-- WITHOUT the sob story? I can't remember.
Chris was all right. More importantly, he comes with a domestic soap opera attached. Worth its weight in GOLD.

Posted by at 8:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

This isn't gonna work. America might be ready for a cute South Asian -- the U.K. has been for decades (the band Cornershop, the hit TV series "Kumars at No. 42") -- but this fella Sanjaya Malakar, 17, just doesn't have IT for the U.S. Malakar's "Steppin' Out with My Baby" was OK, I guess. But compared to WHAT? The kid's got no style, no voice, no poise, no charm. Randy said it was "weak," Paula the TV audience to like her -- and she knows what's expected of her. So, she called Sanjaya an "old soul." Simon hated it. Malakar's going -- either Thursday or the week after.

Posted by at 8:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

This is gonna be a very BLAHHHH year for the GUYS -- am I WRONG?? Look at this: tonight, the 10 males were supposed to drum up some emotion. The idea was for them to dedicate songs to the people that most inspired them -- UH-OH! Bad idea in 2007. People don't inspire these robotrons - machines do. Dedicate a song to your cell fone or PS3 - don't evebn pretend any human has inspired you.
So far, it's been a parade of scared kittens where we need some lions. C'mon. By now, "Idol" is so corrupted by the Hollywood establishment that every attempt at sincerity is transparently fake. Totally choreographed.

Posted by at 8:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Last Sunday, while most people were fixated on the Oscars spectacle, newly retired Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan was in Detroit giving what he said was his final speech - and for the first time he actually made a lot of sense (about 80 percent of the time). Striking at the heart of "American Idol," Louis called for blacks to stop calling humans "dogs. " Dogs are a lowly beast, he said, and it's an insult to call people by that name.
RIGHT!RIGHT!RIGHT!RIGHT!
Enough, Randy. It's not cool. It's not cute. It's not "street." It's repulsive. And Farrakhan called him on it.

Posted by at 8:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A soldiers-only "Idol" series, shot entirely on location in Iraq, is probably an impossibility, an "Idol" expert confirms. In fact, the concept has never even been suggested - except in this posting by me. But the idea is still a very exciting one. A six-month look at the vocal talents of our armed forces - also starring our tuneful Iraqi buddies who always seem up for a singsong - could be just the thing to invigorate sagging interest in our overseas triumphs. Bring on "Armed Idol."

Posted by at 10:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Jennifer Lopez is the latest star to sign on to appear on for the current "Idol" season. It's been said Prince and Mary J. Blige and will also show up during the season. As for J. Lo, her current husband Marc Anthony could be joining her on the show. Other guests this season include Diana Ross, Tony Bennett, Gwen Stefani. But we're hoping for Howard K. Stern.

Posted by at 10:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

In an effort to squeeze even more nickels out of the franchise, the "Idol" folks have come up with something else. Summer camp for tweeners.vacations for some tweeners. "Idol Camp," a performing arts summer camp for kids who crave more than kayaking and hiking, is opening in Massachusetts. The thing was conceived by series creator 19 Entertainment and co-producer FremantleMedia.
The camp's limited enrollment isn't audition-based and won't guarantee a spot on da show or provide any advantage in the series' audition process. Camp is for those under 15. The show's age limit is 16 to 28. Would-be campers should demonstrate a passion for the arts and desire to perform, a release said. Four sessions described as "noncompetitive" are planned this summer for July and August. Cost is $2,900 per student for 10 days and includes room, board, classes and souvenirs. The experience at the Northfield, Mass., camp will include classes with professional artists, former "American Idol" contestants and others in the entertainment industry. Subjects will include singing, dancing and acting. More familiar camp pastimes like swimming and field sports will also be available.

Posted by at 9:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Thursday's show had a performance by third-season winner Fantasia Barrino, who announced she will star as Celie in the Oprah Winfrey-produced musical "The Color Purple" on Broadway. She'll join the show April 10.

Posted by at 8:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

North Hollywood's Rudy Cardenas, 28, a semi-pro singer who sings in a jazz-pop a cappella group, will soon be spotted walking up and down Lankershim Boulvard looking for someone who recognizes him. He got the big boot even after Abdul said his falsetto as "amazing." But Cowell said he was just an "OK singer."
Paul Kim, a 25-year-old from Saratoga, Calif., was cut Thursday after failing to impress Simon, Paula and Randy.
"It hurts, man," Kim told Ryan Seacrest. "It hurts."
The kick-off applied to 22-year-old Amy Krebs, who sang Bonnie Raitt's "I Can't Make You Love Me," was down to her wallflower persona. "She didn't sing that badly, she just didn't make an impression," noted Simon, who has earlier said the Federal Way, Wash., resident had "the personality of a candle."
Cowell said NIcole Tranquillo, a 20-year-old from Philadelphia, for her "over-rehearsed" cover of Chaka Khan's "Stay." But Paula said she was "a brilliant vocalist. "You really are."

Posted by at 8:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

America was heard - all 32 million votes were counted - and Amy Krebs, Nicole Tranquillo, barefoot Paul Kim and North Hollywood's Rudy Cardenas were sent packing in the first eleminations show of the season.

Posted by at 8:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

BEST OF THE NIGHT! Single mom, strange teeth, overweight, black, probably been in a few abusive relationships, believes in the power of prayer - Lakisha Jones, 27, of Maryland, grabbed hold of that bloody "Dreamgirls" anthem “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going.” And, it was written, it was good. Randy said “I do love you.” Paula: “You have so much to be proud of.” Simon: “Just to correct someone earlier on, that’s the right note. I’m very tempted to say to 23 people (the other contestants), book your plane tickets home.” Yeah. Sounds right to me.
She sings like it's sugartime in the old church tonight.

Posted by at 9:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The only laugh of the night was that new Ford Edge commercial, with the song that goes "I want to live on the edge." But the ad, which shows the oversized car or whatever it is riding on the outside edge of a building. Then the ad warns in print below: "THIS IS A FANTASY!" Duhhh. Is everyone really that stupid?

Posted by at 9:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Gina Glocksen, 22, is a big Midwest gal. Her “All By Myself” was pretty average. Randy: “Big girl, big voice, big song, I loved this.” Paula: “It was the right song to sing tonight.” Simon: “I don’t think you hit the big note.”

Posted by at 9:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

And another thing - no Aretha and no Pretenders covers, either, OK? The news didn't get to Alaina Alexander, 24, West Hollywood prom queen, whose “Brass in Pocket" was bloodless. Blah. Boring. Below average. Anemic. Go back to Ben 'n' Jerry's. Randy got it right: “It really wasn’t great, to be honest with you.” Paula: “I didn’t feel it.” Simon: “The irony was you kept singing that line 'I’m special,' and it wasn’t.” Alaina was gonna quit music if she didn't make it. I gotta feeling she's gonna be back in junior college very, very soon.

Posted by at 9:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

New bumper sticker, t-shirt, web site, catchphrase and red velvet cake recipe: LEAVE ARETHA OUT OF IT!

Posted by at 9:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The third Aretha attempt of the night went over best. Pro background singer Melinda Doolittle, 29, came from Tennessee to sing “Since You’ve Been Gone” and the panel loved it. Randy fed her the usual bromides: “All you need is to have confidence and believe in yourself, because you’ve got the natural gift.” Blah, blah, blah. Paula played well with others: “No more background singing, you are a front runner.” Simon liked her, too: “You are an incredible singer, you have a fantastic story, you are a fantastic person, I really hope you do well.” What's that "fantastic story?" Something about praying a lot. Or something.

Posted by at 9:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

...and unfortunately the hunter gets caught by the game. Haley Scarnato, 24, a Texas singer 'n' dancer said she was sooo motivated by the competitors. Her so-so average Broadway treacly cover of “It’s All Coming Back To Me Now" was, according to Randy, "just OK." Paula said she did "a nice job.” But Simon used the old standby, the hotel bar scenario: “It was a bit like being at a reasonable good hotel and that’s the last song of the evening.” Simon said she sounded 40 years old. "Everything about you tonight was old - you should sound a but younger."

Posted by at 9:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Nicole Tranquillo, 20, a Penn. voice major, thrives on "getting no sleep," she sez. She covered “Stay” - done by Chaka, Badu, etc. Too many have done it. Randy said it "wasn’t really working for me.” Paula played nice: “I don’t how many people can hit the notes that Nicole just hit.” Simon: “I thought it was indulgent, it was aggressive, it looked unnatural, it looked fake." Boo hoo. Paula and Simon agreed: Nicole can sing, but wrong song.

Posted by at 9:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Just kidding. Is anyone out there?

Posted by at 9:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

She's just 17 and Jordin Sparks of Arizona sang "Give Me One Reason" to stay in the game. Randy sez she has a lotta natural talent: "I don't know if there's any song too big for you - so go there!" Paula: "You really do have natural talent. Go for it." Simon: "Push yourself and you may surprise a few people in this competition.”

Posted by at 8:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Antonella Barba picked "I Don’t Want to Miss A Thing” and everyone areed this Miss Thing missed it. The song was too big for her, judges said. Randy:“It wasn’t good, it was really pitchy, it was really bland.” Paula: “It may not have been great, but it wasn’t bad.” Simon: “The good news is you’re attractive. The bad news is it didn’t work. It was way, way, way to big for you that song.”
The song was just too big for you, Simon said (in the best line so fa)r: "It would be like Ryan doing the news. It just wouldn't work."

Posted by at 8:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sabrina Sloan, 27, from Studio City is a pro singer. She said she needed to nail "the perfect song." That turned out to be another Aretha attempt. Don't do it, kids. Going for Aretha is big game hunting and few have the ammo. The judges, though, thought differently. Simon said Sloan's "I Never Loved a Man" was the best performance yet. She's in.

Posted by at 8:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rule No. 1 - don't try Aretha unless you really can do it right. Leslie Hunt, 24, a dog-walker from Chicago proved that right away. She's a cute kid, but not a "natural woman." Judges agreed. Will she last?

Posted by at 8:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rudy Cardenas, another SHOW BIZ KID, who lives in North Hollywood, sang “Free Ride.” Doesn't anyone have any imagination? STUPID, TERRIBLE SONG. Randy said “You got the party started, but it was corny. ... in any bar.” Paula was nice: “You started out fantastic.” Simon sez: “I’ve never heard you do anything unique.”
Tomorrow, the girls.

Posted by at 9:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Lankershim Boulevard's first "Idol" -- Brandon Rogers -- the 28-year-old BIZ KID who's sung harmony for Aguilera 'n' Anastacia stuck at the edge of the spotlight (don't move or you're fired!) didn't exactly wow the judiciary. He picked the wrong song (that Michael Jackson tune "Rock With You") . "You gotta make an impact," Simon sez. "You're better than that."
OK--but we'll take bets that he's gonna still be here next week!

Posted by at 8:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Awesome voice, awesome hair, this Studio City chicklet's gonna go far. Sorry, guys, she's married. Extra points off for furthering the Simon-is SOOO-honest mythology. " Simon," she says about the judge she most wants to impress. "Because he is devastatingly honest." Uh, sweetie honey, Simon is doing shtick - better ask somebody.

Posted by at 11:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Thats right folks! Rudy Cardenas of North Hollywood made his way into the final 24. It's been a long wait from seeing his first audition in Seattle until now but it was worth it. Rudy sounded great during Hollywood week, wowing the judges in auditions. Then he sang a stunning rendition of "Georgia On My Mind" that got him into the top 24. Be sure to tune in to American Idol this season and "VOTE FOR RUDY!".

Originally from Venezuela, South America, sings alto/tenor as a member of the local a cappella pop-jazz group m-pact. A graduate in vocal performance from the University of Northern Colorado, Rudy focused his efforts on the classical genre while simultaneously performing in musical theatre, the university's top jazz group, and alongside one of the world's best known Latin guitarists, Manuel Molina.

Rudy eventually moved to New York City where he started working in the theatre and club scene. It is that very performance experience that makes him an asset on stage. Rudy relocated to Seattle to join m-pact and the group eventually moved to Los Angeles.

Posted by at 12:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Who are the Big 24?? Four are from Los Angeles! Until they get kicked off.....
The men are — drumroll, please — Sligh, 28, Greenville, S.C.; Sanjaya Malakar, 17, Federal Way, Wash.; Brandon Rogers, 29, Los Angeles; Philip Stacy, 29, Jacksonville, Fla.; Blake Lewis, 25, Bothell, Wash.; Rudy Cardenas, 28, Los Angeles; Paul Kim, 25, Saratoga, Calif.; A.J. Tabaldo, 22, Santa Maria, Calif.; Nicholas Pedro, 25, Taunton, Mass.; Chris Richardson, 22, Chesapeake, Va.; Jared Cotter, 25, West Orange, N.J., and Jason "Sundance" Head, 28, Porter, Texas.
And the ladies: Melinda Doolittle, 29, Brentwood, Tenn.; Gina Glocksen, 22, Naperville, Ill.; Haley Scarnato, 24, San Antonio, Texas; Jordin Sparks, 17, Glendale, Ariz.; Stephanie Edwards, 19, Savannah, Ga.; Leslie Hunt, 24, Chicago; Alaina Alexander, 24, West Hollywood, Calif.; Sabrina Sloan, 27, Los Angeles; Lakisha Jones, 27, Flint, Mich.; Nicole Tranquillo, 20, Philadelphia; Amy Krebs, 22, Federal Way, Wash., and Antonella Barba, 20, Point Pleasant, N.J.

Posted by at 11:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Antonella Barba, a Jersey girl, survived, but her BFF, Amanda, was sent packing. Chris, the Jack Osbourne lookalike, made it, too. But even though tears fell, there were no fireworks tonight. Wish they'd kept the singing Castro clone - but dude got kicked off. Tomorrow, 16 more will be gone to leave the race at 12 guys and 12 girls. After that, starting next week when the show goes live for the first time this season, it's America's turn to vote.

Posted by at 9:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A month into the new series, "Idol" finally got busy cuttin' 'em (172 contestants) back to a final 40. Some shockers: the Bollywood twins from the twin cities were split up after the judges decided they liked Sanjaya Malakar better than his older sister Shyamali. The two said goo'bye in the lobby and Sanjaya headed off to be sequestered like an O.J. juror. Hey, and get a load of this: Robyn Troup, the USC student who was voted on stage to sing with Justin Timberlake at Sunday’s Grammy Awards, was sent back to her downtown dorm. Wow! You figure it out cuz I can't. And Baylie Brown, who we really clicked with last week, got axed. Who was left?

Posted by at 8:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The traveling freak show known as the auditions phase is over. Beginning tonight, the judges stay put in Hollywood, where they start picking 'em off for real.

Posted by at 3:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

"Idol" producer Nigel Lythgoe says of the new season:
"I think this is going to be a great season where there isn’t a Kelly Pickler, a Carrie Underwood, or a Clay Aiken, that you know is going to really steal everybody’s votes. This season I think we’ve got a lot of excellent singers. I don’t think I’m going to be ashamed of anybody that gets up there and sings this season. But they are going to have to grow rather in the vane of, and I don’t know if you remember Vonzell, who just came from the back and like a good horse, just steamed to the front and came third at the end of the day. Kelly Clarkson herself, nobody thought Kelly Clarkson was going to get anywhere when the series started. Slowly she just moved forward and won by a majority at the end."

Posted by at 12:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

but i hate when they cry. BUT the best moment so far tonight was the tear-stained tryout of Ashlyn Carr. At first the sweet-faced girl with a really good voice was sent packing 'cause of her weird, tortured facial expressions. She's beautiful but she needs to control those facial muscles.
Randy, Simon and Paula agreed and brought her back for a rare (rarer even than an astronaut up on kidnapping charges) second chance. Pick a Gladys Knight song, they say. After she sings it, Simon tells her that she has veddy, veddy bad habits, but the show wants someone "unique." He tells her she reminds him of an old-school singer like Dionne Warwick; Paula tells her to work on those facial tics -- and the judges give her a pass to H-Wood. YAY! One of the best segments of the season so far.

Posted by at 8:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

She's from Krum, a Texas town the size of your thumb. She had to fight her mum, who said she was a crumb-y country singer. But Baylie Brown - for it was her - sang well enough for Simon to see dancing dollar signs before his eyes. Cowell pronounced Ms. Brown from Krum both "commercial" and "marketable" - the kiss of death if she was some kind of Marilyn Manson scare-tactics act. But Baylie is not Marilyn Manson.
Cowell lurved her up, saying she's a record label's dream singer. Paula gave Krum ye olde thumbs up, too, saying there's some good fashion sense copming out of Krum these days. We will see Baylie in H-Wood.

Posted by at 8:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Prertty good so far. No reason to plug the ears and run out into oncoming traffic. Tonight's Texas auditions were prerty good, especially after some recent city tryouts. Texas is producing some good young singers, even if they, like all the others, have no imagination when it comes to choosing songs. Where's a little Bob Wills when we need it, honeys?

Posted by at 8:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Did anyone else notice the "big scoop" on "Extra" the other night? You know, the "interview" with Paula about her so-called "strange behavior" (which is really just her natural personality hyped up to keep people talking)? Paula was being "grilled" by "Extra's" Terri Seymour, that ratty little Brit with an accent that could peel paint. FUGLY. Well, they made such a big deal about this big "scoop" -- strange how they never mentioned that Seymour is SIMON'S GIRLFRIEND. Do you really think it took all that much to get Paula on Seymour's couch?

Posted by at 12:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Next week it's Texas. Hope it's better than tonight. But we'll still remember such oddities as Phuong Pham, a not-so special singer who insisted she was just like Taylor. (Her own mom said she wasn't pretty enough for TV - which is totally untrue. Hey, she's more interesting to look at than 75 percent of the peolpe already on TV, OK, mom?)

And that couple swapping spit on camera? Yuck-o-rama. Cavett Carr and Darold