It’s that time of year again: thousands of ordinary folks aspiring to follow in the footsteps of Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, and others in being the U.S. of A.’s next musical superstar.

The Fox PR with a brief rundown of the season schedule:

http://www.americanidol.com/news/view/pid/1500

There are several notable changes this year, most notably the addition of a fourth judge-noted songwriter Kara DioGuardi (http://new.americanidol.com/bio/kara_dioguardi). The broadcast schedule is slightly different: three weeks of auditions, then two weeks of the Hollywood round (with the return of group numbers). There will be 36 semifinalists (up from last year’s 24) announced on Feb. 11; they will perform in groups of 12 on Feb. 17 and 24 and March 3. The man and woman with the highest total of viewer votes from each group, along with the next highest vote getter, will move on to the final 12.

The wild card round is back this year; the four judges will pick their favorite remaining semifinalists to perform once more on March 5, after which they will select the last three of this year’s finalists.

The final round begins on March 10 and will continue until the finale in mid-May; no word yet on what themes or mentors will be selected, though one of the producers recently said that he would like to have Britney Spears as a mentor.:eek:

There will be NO Idol Gives Back special this year (probably due to the current state of the economy); the producers plan to bring it back next year. And, as far as I know, the current viewer voting system, allowing for unlimited phone and text message voting, has not changed.

LET THE GAMES BEGIN…

While this annual lame karaoke exhibition inexplicably has its share of fans here, can't we please at least change the thread title? If I have to look at that on the Programming front page every day for the next 5 months, I'll barf. A lot. :rolleyes:

There will be NO Idol Gives Back special this year (probably due to the current state of the economy)
That's funny because now, more then ever, is a time to give back a little due to the state of the economy.

How are they going to break a tie with four judges?

is this in HD or FOX SD WIDE?

is this in hd or fox sd wide?

hd

How are they going to break a tie with four judges?

They have had four judges before. The only difference will be there will be a fourth judge during the Hollywood rounds.

Simon Cowell breaks any tie.

New judge Kara was on Letterman last night. I found her cute but very annoying. Either way, I'm looking forward to watching this with the kids tonight.

On a related front, Fantasia may be allowed to keep her house outside of Charlotte after negotiating a payment plan to keep it out of foreclosure. It was heavily liened to pay back taxes. :rolleyes:

Another vote for worst thread title EVER.

I'll barf. A lot. :rolleyes:

Could be the latest weight-loss fad; write a book, get rich, and thank the thread-starter for motivating your efforts...

On a related front, Fantasia may be allowed to keep her house outside of Charlotte after negotiating a payment plan to keep it out of foreclosure. It was heavily liened to pay back taxes. :rolleyes:

As far as I know, I don't think anyone has ever accused her of having any brains.

Another vote for worst thread title EVER.

And another vote! Maybe we could get a Mod (CPanther95) to delete the last part. :p

Could be the latest weight-loss fad; write a book, get rich, and thank the thread-starter for motivating your efforts...

Not if you throw up in your mouth like I did.

[comic book guy] Worst thread title ever! [/comic book guy]

Bring on the new season. I can't wait!

Title edited.

Awww, CP; you're denying so many AVSers that opportunity for the treacle-induced up-chuck...

Thanks to CP95 for shortening the thread title, per my request; maybe there can now be a bit more peace here as the season progresses. :)

very poor feed over here on a motorla 3416 / pioneer pdp-5080hd... noisy picture, text overlays are jittery... i don't watch this show gf does, but i remember last year the picture quality was outstanding. hmm?

Not seeing any problems here thus far, watching OTA on WTLH-DT out of Tallahassee.

Tonight's show covers the auditions in Phoenix. It should be noted all of the auditions were held last summer; no report on whether the hot Arizona sun dried out some of our hopefuls' voices.;)

pq looks great here too..watching on ctv via rogers cable in toronto

pioneer 6010 and SA 8300 box.

that bikini girl is going to provide laughs for a few weeks i think haha

that bikini girl is going to provide laughs for a few weeks i think haha
She just may...though her voice is plausible, she reminds me a bit of Amy Davis from last year. I wonder why she got through while teen songwriter/country music fan Lea Marie (sp?), who I thought was almost spot-on, was turned down.

I was also impressed by Emily, who did a very good job on "Barracuda;" though her pink hair and tattoos may be turn-offs for some, I would not be surprised if she makes at least the top 12. I also liked Brianna (the one who led a dance lesson before her tryout); she could also go far with the proper voice coaching.

EDIT: I forgot about Stevie Wright-she was such a joy to hear.

Tomorrow, it's on to Kansas City...

She just may...though her voice is plausible, she reminds me a bit of Amy Davis from last year. I wonder why she got through while teen songwriter/country music fan Lea Marie (sp?), who I thought was almost spot-on, was turned down.


After 7 seasons, you can predict that girls like Lea Marie won't get very far, so you may as well cut them off early, and let someone better have a shot. Of course, I don't expect bikini girl to get past Hollywood, but she will be fun to watch.

Decent premiere tonight. Kara is pretty cute.

I like the country boy and the country girl. And the horror loving guy isn't so bad. Finally, while I dislike being spoonfed heartwarming stories, I want to see how far the final contestant goes. I hate to think that his handicap will help him, but without it he's just another good voice/musical talent. Nevertheless I hope he's awesome.

How are they going to break a tie with four judges?

If you watched tonight's ep closely, it still takes only two votes to move on. It's pretty stupid as it really should have 3 of 4 to go to Hollywood and if you split, it's a no.

But watch tonight's ep and you'll see at least once a 2-2, and they say "You're going to Hollywood."

If you watched tonight's ep closely, it still takes only two votes to move on. It's pretty stupid as it really should have 3 of 4 to go to Hollywood and if you split, it's a no.

But watch tonight's ep and you'll see at least once a 2-2, and they say "You're going to Hollywood."

I think that may only apply when Simon is one of the two "Yes" votes. :rolleyes:

.

I was also impressed by Emily, who did a very good job on "Barracuda;" though her pink hair and tattoos may be turn-offs for some, I would not be surprised if she makes at least the top 12.


If she is the one I'm thinking of, I thought the big, stretched out, ear lobes were biggest turn-off. What is she going to do when her fashion sense changes some day and she's stuck with these ginormous, droopy, spaghetti lobes!

Good beginning to the show. A couple stand out people. It will be interesting to see how far the blind guy can go, I suspect top 12.

The girl with the pink hair did good but like someone said earlier.....the earlobe things were crazy, my wife kept telling me that they were ear rings but I told her " no, those are her earlobes all stretched out" it was freaking me out when she shook her head and they flopped around :eek:

Which judge told the bikini girl to come naked next time??? I remember hearing it from the panel.

Did anyone else see Ryan Seacrest try to "High Five" the blind guy. :confused:

If she is the one I'm thinking of, I thought the big, stretched out, ear lobes were biggest turn-off. What is she going to do when her fashion sense changes some day and she's stuck with these ginormous, droopy, spaghetti lobes!

That, my friend, is why they have plastic surgeons. In fact, if you watched 'Nip/Tuck' this week, you saw how that very procedure is done. And may I just say, "Ewwww!". ;)

that bikini girl is going to provide laughs for a few weeks i think haha

Here's a few more pics:

Photo Gallery (http://idolbloglive.com/idolblog/?page_id=2024&g2_itemId=36225)

The girl with the pink hair did good but like someone said earlier.....the earlobe things were crazy, my wife kept telling me that they were ear rings but I told her " no, those are her earlobes all stretched out" it was freaking me out when she shook her head and they flopped around :eek:

Which judge told the bikini girl to come naked next time??? I remember hearing it from the panel.

Did anyone else see Ryan Seacrest try to "High Five" the blind guy. :confused:

Kara told her to come naked next time. MEOW! Simon was so damn funny with the bikini girl too. "I'll go first. Uh, yes." LOL!

And I LOL'd at Seacrest too during the High Five. And then just did the, uh, I'm trying to shake your hand. LOLz.

I liked how Kara tried to "outsing" her, as if that would make the guys forget she was in a bikini. :)

Too bad they didn't have the guy with the double bass voice sing a chorus of "Go Down Moses" ("Let my people goooooo!") like the guy who was in the very first audition last season. That was the funniest start to AI I'd ever seen.

Best moment from last night: Bikini Girl kissing Ryan...

AWKWARD!!!

And the horror loving guy isn't so bad.

Horror-boy has potential to be this season's Sanjaya.

I found the guys before the blind guy to be hilarious (the one who taught himself to sing in his closet). His dry sense of humor was great.

"That would be a funny joke if it made sense."

Horror-boy has potential to be this season's Sanjaya.

Or this season's David Archuleta. The little girls are gonna love him.

All the videos of bikini girls audition have been removed from YouTube. What's going on here?!?! This was the first time they have removed auditions from there. Weird.

I'll probably watch tonight, but am done for the rest of the season. BTW, the new judge sucks.

I'll probably watch tonight, but am done for the rest of the season. BTW, the new judge sucks.

She has more industry credibility than even Randy. She can sing too.

Sure, she has more cred than Randy and Paula put together (and P.A. has a Grammy :rolleyes:) and not bad looking; she's still a sucky judge. She got up out of her chair, insulted that young lady, but didn't approach her as she would've had her hair handed to her.

All the videos of bikini girls audition have been removed from YouTube. What's going on here?!?! This was the first time they have removed auditions from there. Weird.For some reason, YouTube's been going the way of the studios rather than the way of the people. It's becoming more and more common to see them taking down anything that aired over a television network.

Tonight's K.C. audition show produced more interesting drama. I don't remember what her name was, but the girl who sang "Without You" was very pitchy, dawg.

OTOH, I was very impressed by Casey Carlson and her take on Vanessa Carlton that was nothing short of stellar. Top 12? I have a feeling she has a shot at making top 4. Among others I was impressed by: Von Smith and Michael Castro (Jason's brother-the apple certainly does not fall far from the tree).

To be continued next week, in the wake of seeing a new president get sworn in...

I only saw bits and pieces because of the Lakers/Clippers games, but was I the only one having issues?

It was a pixelized mess quite a few times. This is in LA through D*.

Sure, she has more cred than Randy and Paula put together (and P.A. has a Grammy :rolleyes:) and not bad looking; she's still a sucky judge. She got up out of her chair, insulted that young lady, but didn't approach her as she would've had her hair handed to her.

Why do you say she's "sucky?" Because she insulted someone (which Simon does constantly) but refrained from getting into a cat fight? :rolleyes:

I only saw bits and pieces because of the Lakers/Clippers games, but was I the only one having issues?

It was a pixelized mess quite a few times. This is in LA through D*.

Looked fine in L.A. off of Dish.

OTOH, I was very impressed by Casey Carlson

Very impressive young lady indeed, that Casey Carlson. Oh, she also sang you say? Who knew? :p

I only saw about 5 minutes of the show before I could escape the living room where my wife sat entranced, but noticed two things - I saw the right 5 minutes, and the wrong girl was wearing that bikini. ;)

If you watched tonight's ep closely, it still takes only two votes to move on. It's pretty stupid as it really should have 3 of 4 to go to Hollywood and if you split, it's a no.

But watch tonight's ep and you'll see at least once a 2-2, and they say "You're going to Hollywood."

I think that may only apply when Simon is one of the two "Yes" votes. :rolleyes:

That is correct. Simon breaks the tie.

Where are the pics? Most of us are not going to watch AI until the number of contestants dwindles to about a dozen.

A prior season's AI thread had a rule that every page must have an animated gif of Sanjaya's sister cheering him on...

Sure, she has more cred than Randy and Paula put together (and P.A. has a Grammy :rolleyes:) and not bad looking; she's still a sucky judge. She got up out of her chair, insulted that young lady, but didn't approach her as she would've had her hair handed to her.
So you think she's a "sucky" judge because she insulted the woman (insulting contestants on American Idol is going too far) or because she didn't jump over the table and start bashing on her?

I think Kara has a least one thing going for her...



It's seems like the threat of being replaced by Kara has managed to get Paula out of the drug addled state she's been in the last couple of seasons. Paula is more coherent this season than she has been for years.

Paula is more coherent this season than she has been for years.The season is quite young. Give Paula a chance. I still think it's unsafe to have an open flame near her cup. :D

So you think she's a "sucky" judge because she insulted the woman (insulting contestants on American Idol is going too far) or because she didn't jump over the table and start bashing on her?She sucks because she has no humility and acts as though she's been there from day one. Granted, she has known Paula for quite some time.....most, probably none of the contestants has a clue as to who she is. And Paula really did act as instigator during that little fiasco; I was almost shocked by her behavior.

Certainly, they want to try and keep the show as entertaining as possible, but insulting someone you just met is something I tend to not make a habit out of.

but insulting someone you just met is something I tend to not make a habit out of.

You're kidding, right? "Insulting" people they just meet is what the judges do 95% of the time during the audition process.

Remember the young lady who recently "offed" herself after being rejected? I know there are people with issues, who can't take the pressure the process of the show brings and therefore don't belong. Then there are those who merely show up for their 15 seconds of fame to get on TV; you'd think the judges could tell the difference by now.

Guess I was mistaken in thinking there'd be a slightly kinder & gentler Idol. The new judge now makes it Simon times two.

From the HOTP thread...new research shows that AI's audience is aging:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=15559370#post15559370

(BTW, I'm 43 and mostly up-to-date on pop culture. ;))

The new judge now makes it Simon times two.

Which is fantastic. A lot of these people need a reality check, and it's hilarious seeing their reactions when it's given to them. Of course, I'm an insensitive arse, so that helps I suppose.

Remember the young lady who recently "offed" herself after being rejected?Paula G (her reported birth name was Sandra and she changed it) had stalked Paula A for several years and had a long history of instability. To imply that her audition was directly responsible for her demise three years later is a little misleading, although I would speculate that in the total scheme of things it didn't help. Many of those auditioning look to be less than stable, but is it the producer's responsibility to handle them with kid gloves? The entertainment business can be far more brutal and they are probably being done a favor to get a taste of reality.

Paula G's audition can be found on Youtube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4xyV_ZLojII).

I think it's the judges responsibility to not make light of those who are unstable; it's not that hard to determine who is and who isn't. I also think it's possible to reject them without laughing them off the stage. The rejects are then seen by a worldwide audience, crying and running down the street.

What I do enjoy about the auditions are those that can't sing and KNOW it. Rejection comes easy; they just want their 15 seconds. And no, I've never tried out for Idol, but know someone who did, and was turned down; this guy can flat-out sing.

I also think it's possible to reject them without laughing them off the stage. The rejects are then seen by a worldwide audience, crying and running down the street.

Which is hilarious. You don't see me auditioning...I know better. These people apparently don't. And you can't help but laugh at some of these people. Like the guy with the really deep voice. I mean come on...really? How do you not start cracking up when he starts singing?

Where are the pics?...
Ask and you shall receive…here are links to various pics on the AI site:

Lea Marie Golde:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/phoenix_gallery/35421/
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/phoenix_gallery/35473/
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/phoenix_gallery/35631/

Emily Wynne-Hughes:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/phoenix_gallery/35417/
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/phoenix_gallery/35600/

Katrina Darrell (aka Bikini Girl):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/phoenix_gallery/35415/

Stevie Wright:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/phoenix_gallery/35411/

Scott McIntyre (the blind man):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/phoenix_gallery/35423/

Casey Carlson:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/kansas_city_gallery/35935/

Andrew Lang (and cheering section):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/kansas_city_gallery/35941/
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/kansas_city_gallery/35942/
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/kansas_city_gallery/35943/

Michael Castro:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/kansas_city_gallery/35944/

I think it's the judges responsibility to not make light of those who are unstable; it's not that hard to determine who is and who isn't. I also think it's possible to reject them without laughing them off the stage. The rejects are then seen by a worldwide audience, crying and running down the street.

Kara D did not laugh Bikini Girl off the stage. She did make light of her (she showed up in a bikini!) but Bikini Girl did not at any point seem unstable. In fact she was confident enough to say that she sang the song better than Kara D and that's what started the funny singing confrontation.

You're right -- it's not hard to who is and who isn't stable and Kara certainly knew Bikini Girl was as stable as a skyscraper. She strutted off from the audition in her semi-nakedness happy, not crying and running down the street.

So why was she a "sucky" judge again?

She sucks because she has no humility and acts as though she's been there from day one.
You have obviously missed the several times she has complained that the other judges have been too mean to contestants and the many many times she has been far more sympathetic to failed contestants.

With Tuan Nguyen while the other judges laughed at him, she very politely said "I've never seen anything like that. And in a 'not so good' way."

With Randy Madden: "I want to say one thing [while Paula and Simon were acting like school children to each other]. Honestly I understand your point that this is your last shot but at the same time to get to be big in this industry [Paula talks over her and and throws more stuff at Simon] it takes a lot of hard work. And you haven't put that hard work in." Simon tiredly cut her off saying "We made the point, Randy yes or no."

With Michael Gurr, Randy did his traditional covering his face while he laughed at him (as if that helps). Kara apologized saying "He's having a problem."

With Elijah Scarlett, the double bass singer, Paula said he could do voice over work for monster movies. Kara didn't appreciate this and responded, "Oh, God, you guys."

With Lea Marie Golde, Kara's only known fan, she correctly said, "You sounded like you were in a musical, very baby, up here [pointing to her sinuses] and I'm not sure if your voice is fully developed." She continued with some positive comments. "But what I do like about you is anybody who writes this amount of stuff is someone who's committed to something. And you should go ahead. I don't know what you are as a writer but I think that says a lot for someone."

So where did Kara say something that made an unstable contestant run out into the streets crying? I guess I musta missed that one. I don't like the vicious comments that Simon and lately Randy and even Paula dish out and I think Kara has been great so far.

Better pics of Casey Carlson

http://www.idontlikeyouinthatway.com/2009/01/hello-there-american-idol.html

Kara D did not laugh Bikini Girl off the stage. She did make light of her (she showed up in a bikini!) but Bikini Girl did not at any point seem unstable. In fact she was confident enough to say that she sang the song better than Kara D and that's what started the funny singing confrontation.Correct. And I never said Kara laughed her off stage. In fact, Ms. Bikini Girl made it to Hollywood; I was paying attention. I think I would more readily accept Kara if she had been there from season one. You seem to like her, I don't; whatever.

I won't continue to bicker back and forth like those silly judges, as the show is mostly a farce anyway. But with the arguably best part of the show now behind, I probably won't even watch it again 'til next fall.

I won't continue to bicker back and forth like those silly judges, as the show is mostly a farce anyway. But with the arguably best part of the show now behind, I probably won't even watch it again 'til next fall.
Now behind? You do realize that there are several more hours of auditions to be aired, don't you?

Next fall? You do realize that the season is winter and AI doesn't air during the fall, don't you?

AI is in it's eighth season and is still the most popular show in the US. It gained popularity largely due to Simon's at times brutal evaluations, especially when they followed Paula's milktoast ramblings. Anyone who auditions for this show and is not prepared to potentially be in the the line of fire deserves every bit of humiliation they may experience. The deluded ones that are devastated by a critical evaluation should be nowhere close to the entertainment industry.

While there have been many auditioning who do not appear to realize their complete lack of talent, I don't recall seeing anyone who obviously did not possess sufficient sanity to comprehend the situation they were in. Even Paula Goodspeed didn't seem that close to the edge, although with hind sight she probably shouldn't have gotten through. But how thorough can the show be? Should they do an intensive psychological evaluation on every candidate that makes it to the judges? I doubt that would be practical or even useful. No such evaluation could be perfect, especially with the time constraints the selection process operates under.

A few seasons ago Simon compared one contestant to a 'bush baby'. He and a befriended fellow contestant gained their 15 minutes of fame because some had thought Simon had been too mean with his comment. Both were invited to the season finale. Had Simon not made his comment both would have gone into instant obscurity.

The real problem with four judges is possibly even more time constraints for Simon as the last judge to speak. The audition phase is prerecorded so it's not really a problem. The live shows will be another story. Maybe if Paula is more coherent this season it will be less of a problem, but then again what fun is that? I'm still waiting for her to tip over backwards on the air. I guess at that point we would be back to three judges.

Better pics of Casey Carlson

http://www.idontlikeyouinthatway.com/2009/01/hello-there-american-idol.html

Leave it to a fellow Austin resident to post something truly useful! Thanks

More pics from K.C.:

Von Smith:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/kansas_city_gallery/35952/

Jessica Furney (lives with her grandma, did spot-on take on Janis while auditioning on her birthday):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/kansas_city_gallery/35953/ (I hope you don’t mind unusual facial expressions ;))

Lil Rounds (last auditioner on the K.C. show, sang Stevie Wonder):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/kansas_city_gallery/35968/

Andrew Lang’s personal cheerleaders making friends with three Simon Cowell groupies:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/kansas_city_gallery/36013/

Meanwhile: The San Francisco auditions will be featured on Tuesday, followed by Louisville on Wednesday. It is interesting to note that a banner on the AI site’s home page had Louisville as “Lousiville” (notice the transposed letters). Hopefully, this is not indicative of how auditioners in that city fared.;)

A heads-up (this thread needed a bump, anyway): the audition shows tonight and tomorrow will be only ONE hour in length, which should be a bit more (or less, as the case may be) music to your ears, so to speak.;)

A heads-up (this thread needed a bump, anyway): the audition shows tonight and tomorrow will be only ONE hour in length, which should be a bit more (or less, as the case may be) music to your ears, so to speak.;)

That is great news. Don't think I could stand 2 more hours each night, even if I DVR it. LOL

I DVRd last weeks double 2 hour feature. :) I watched each one in 50 minutes......

Here are some Separated at Birth pictures you may find funny assuming you've watched the last two shows (otherwise, it's just someone looking like some random person):

American Idol Separated at Birth (http://home.comcast.net/~hanson68/idol4.htm)

As someone mentioned, Simon breaks ties, so in essence, he casts two votes for everyone else's one. Many contestants try to suck up to Simon anyway, but getting his vote is even more important this season.

Even though tonight's S.F. audition show was one hour, it still concerned me that the not-so-good auditions apparently still got slightly more air time than the really good ones. I only saw wee snippets of what appeared to be spot-on performances by John, Allison and Raquel (I don't remember their last names right now-my short term memory is not always reliable).

Of those auditions which got more than five seconds of air time, I would watch out for Jesus and Adam. Kai (whom they showed at the end) may have been a bit too dramatic in my view, but he also deserved to be put through.

Tatiana (the Puerto Rican who was shown at the beginning) was not that good to me, she smacked a bit of Antonella Barba; maybe she should have tried out for America's Next Top Model. I was very surprised she got her ticket. Akilah should focus on her biology class and leave the singing to the real pros. Annie Murdoch (sp?) has some potential, but needs to tone down her voice a bit.

On to Louisville (or was that Lousiville?) tomorrow...

Tatiana (the Puerto Rican who was shown at the beginning) was not that good to me, she smacked a bit of Antonella Barba; maybe she should have tried out for America's Next Top Model.

I was eating dinner when I saw her, and whenever she laughed, I wanted to jam my fork into my neck.

I really hope they drop her...fast.

I was eating dinner when I saw her [Tatiana], and whenever she laughed, I wanted to jam my fork into my neck.

I really hope they drop her...fast.
LOL...:D

If she makes the top 36, I'll get ear plugs.

If she makes the top 12, I'll put the TV on mute whenever she comes on.;)

She won't make the first cut. Putting her through was just a joke.

helllllloooooooo oh!NO! OHHHH! That 1 came out the wrong rectum! Y'all are irakidating me!


Best audition in years ! Comedywise....!

As for tonight's Louisville auditions:

Tonight's show was a bit more balanced between good and bad auditions. I won't bother to spotlight the bad ones-except for Aaron, who butchered CCR so badly I almost died laughing.

These are the folks from tonight's show I would watch out for in La-La Land:

Joanna's voice was very nice and clear; at best, she should make the top 6. At least, she should make the top 36.

Brent Smith (who did some Bad Company) could be a force to be reckoned with.

Matt Giraud, the piano player, could bring an extra dimension to the latter stages of the season as a musician, much like Brooke White did last year.

Alexis Grace (the stay-at-home mom) could surprise in the Hollywood round, if she gets a good song or two.

Leneshe Young, the last auditioner on tonight's show, hit her marks on the song she wrote herself. She could also surprise in Hollywood.

Next show: Tuesday, Jan. 27-the Jacksonville auditions.

EDIT: Thanks to CP95 for his spot-on assessment of Tatiana-I don't think she will go far either.

EDIT 2: I inadvertently referred to Matt Giraud as "William." Oops!

Joanna Pacitti = Carly Smithson 2.0. Plant.

Some pretty good singers. The second contestant tonight was so beautiful however I hate how these people that had a recording contract are allowed on the show. One, they already "made it" in the business. Second, they failed for whatever reason. They really shouldn't be allowed on the show.

joanna is far easier on the eyes than carly :)

I can't believe that Paula has never heard the phrase, "Be careful." First of all, it's not a threat. It's just another way of saying 'by'. Kinda like saying, "See you later." It's a common expression that's been around for years, and not to be taken literally.

I have always thought Simon was secretly a decent guy, but is anyone getting tired of Simon telling everyone (Kara) to stop giving pointers to singers when she wants to talk and then giving his own at least as often. One way street. Seems pretty bratish.

Tired of his butt-cut too. Stupid hair.

Kara finally made a contestant run out into the street crying!

But come on. The woman was voted Most Humorous in high school and writing the lyrics on her arm for her audition was hilarious. A couple of seasons ago Simon made a simple ultimatum: mess up the lyrics and you're out. Like Kara, I figured she was making fun of this.

Too bad she wasn't. She actually thought they'd send her to Hollywood, singing lyrics who wrote on her arm.

I have always thought Simon was secretly a decent guy, but is anyone getting tired of Simon telling everyone (Kara) to stop giving pointers to singers when she wants to talk and then giving his own at least as often. One way street. Seems pretty bratish.

Tired of his butt-cut too. Stupid hair.

I'm tired of everytime one of the girls show cleavage, that they have those stupid, giant Coke glasses in the way! :p;):D

Some pretty good singers. The second contestant tonight was so beautiful however I hate how these people that had a recording contract are allowed on the show. One, they already "made it" in the business. Second, they failed for whatever reason. They really shouldn't be allowed on the show.

Here we go again. I believe the show is about finding good singers who can perform and sell records regardless of whether or not they have experience in the business already.

Others believe the show is about pulling people off the street who don't know anything about the music business and turning them into recording stars.

Here we go again. I believe the show is about finding good singers who can perform and sell records regardless of whether or not they have experience in the business already.

Others believe the show is about pulling people off the street who don't know anything about the music business and turning them into recording stars.

It was worse then I thought as pointed out in a recent article.

"The pretty brunette makes Carly Smithson seem like a music industry rookie with all the experience (and disappointments) she’s had thus far. Not only was she with A&M, as Kara pointed out, but Geffen records also released an album by her. The soundtracks of “Legally Blonde,” “Bratz,” “First Daughter” and “Nancy Drew” all sported singles by her, and she was featured in an MTV show called “First Year.”
What Pacitti is best known for however, is her famous rise and fall from fame at age 11 when she won the lead role in the 20th anniversary production of “Annie,” only to be replaced by her understudy two weeks before the show’s Broadway debut.

Brent Keith Smith, for example, is a former contestant from Nashville Star 2, had a song on the “Dale” soundtrack (a movie about nascar legend Dale Earnhardt) and is a featured artist on the Country Music Television website.

And despite Matt Giraud’s convincingly coy audition, he actually has two albums of his own out there, too."

I think that is wrong. They had a chance, they failed, they shouldn't be on Idol simply for the fact that they have failed. Obviously they are not good enough.

Here we go again. I believe the show is about finding good singers who can perform and sell records regardless of whether or not they have experience in the business already.

Others believe the show is about pulling people off the street who don't know anything about the music business and turning them into recording stars.

There have been articles recently on MSN and Yahoo about "how to make the show better." At least one of them said "Stick to trying to find truly undiscovered talent." That's what the majority of the people want, which is why "America" rejected Carly.

And they'll reject Joanna, IMHO.

Nice blouse Paula. Maybe you should just show up naked next time. :rolleyes:

[ed: Sorry, I had to get the hypocracy of Paula wearing that blouse while complaining about bikini girl off my chest. BTW, that goes for Kara's SF auditions blouse too. Where did you get that thing Kara? Because it looked like you lifted it off a Castro Street crack ho.]

But Joanna's hot. Can't America make an exception for hotness?

There have been articles recently on MSN and Yahoo about "how to make the show better." At least one of them said "Stick to trying to find truly undiscovered talent." That's what the majority of the people want, which is why "America" rejected Carly.
America sure took its time rejecting her because she made it to the top 6. There were no protests against her being on the American Idols Live tour during the summer.

My opinion is don't reject an artist because a bunch of record industry morons didn't know what to do with them. If the music business were doing its job of finding and promoting talent, American Idol wouldn't even exist.

With regards to Joanna Pacitti and her prior experience: I had not personally heard of her before last night, and I bet not a lot of others have (as was the case with Carly last year), so she is for all practical purposes undiscovered and therefore deserving of a chance on AI. I quote a part of the show FAQ from the AI site (http://www.americanidol.com/faq/), answering a question about contestants’ prior experience (I boldfaced a very important word):

In order to be eligible, the contestants are not permitted to have any CURRENT recording or talent management agreements.

So, even if Joanna did not entirely follow the spirit of the rules (or at least I will take your word for it), she is still following the letter. Let’s let her performances down the road speak for themselves before we rush to crucify her.:)

Pics from Tuesday’s S.F. show:

Tatiana Del Toro (in her party dress):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/san_francisco_gallery/36515/

Jesus Valenzuela:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/san_francisco_gallery/36531/

Annie Murdoch (though she did not get through, I think she could make it as a model):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/san_francisco_gallery/36508/

John Twiford (I thought he deserved more than just 5 seconds of air time):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/san_francisco_gallery/36538/

Allison Iraheta (see above):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/san_francisco_gallery/36523/

Raquel Houghton (spot-on rendition of “Son of a Preacher Man;” also appeared for just a few ticks):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/san_francisco_gallery/36509/

Adam Lambert:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/san_francisco_gallery/36518/

Kai Kalama:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/san_francisco_gallery/36510/

Simon gave me my pick-up line for the weekend. I'll walk up to hotties and tell them, "You know, you have a very commercial face." I bet they're gonna love hearing that.

Some pretty good singers. The second contestant tonight was so beautiful however I hate how these people that had a recording contract are allowed on the show. One, they already "made it" in the business. Second, they failed for whatever reason. They really shouldn't be allowed on the show.
amen! l Last season was a sham due to the two deal girls making the final 12....

Only one singer has come close to `great' IMHO and that is the one from last week who appeared with her husband and 3 kids. Yes there have been several `good' singers but few who are even close to `jawdropping singers'.

Joanna's certainly not violating the rules, but the uproar over her and Carly shows that there is a vocal group of people (like myself) who think the fun of AI is in finding someone who truly is undiscovered.

New article today on yahoo:
http://new.music.yahoo.com/blogs/realityrocks/123306/is-joanna-pacitti-the-next-carly-smithson/

I don't even know if I am suggesting that there should be a rule that if you were signed to a major label once that you should automatically be excluded, but Joanna has been on major movie soundtracks. Joanna had one of her songs covered by Britney Spears. She really doesn't need AI, and the viewership of AI wants unknowns, not has-beens trying for another run-around, even if (hypothetically) they were screwed over by a record company.

Joanna's certainly not violating the rules, but the uproar over her and Carly shows that there is a vocal group of people (like myself) who think the fun of AI is in finding someone who truly is undiscovered.

New article today on yahoo:
http://new.music.yahoo.com/blogs/realityrocks/123306/is-joanna-pacitti-the-next-carly-smithson/

I don't even know if I am suggesting that there should be a rule that if you were signed to a major label once that you should automatically be excluded, but Joanna has been on major movie soundtracks. Joanna had one of her songs covered by Britney Spears. She really doesn't need AI, and the viewership of AI wants unknowns, not has-beens trying for another run-around, even if (hypothetically) they were screwed over by a record company.

Ain't that the truth. I smelled "plant" when I saw her audition. She was too professional, too polished and just so full of fake, "I hope I'm okay!" just like Carly did last year. This one is prettier than Carly, but less slightly less talented vocally. My fiance said they should've just brought out the pot and soil for this plant, as it was so obvious. Jeez!

I saw another plant in Louisville, but I forgot her (or was it his) name.

American Idol is the only talent show that people complain about when it has contestants that are too talented to be on it.

I don't think talent has much to do with it. There's a reason she hasn't made it and had to resort to being on a reality show.

Pics from Wednesday’s Louisville show:

Joanna Pacitti:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/louisville_gallery/37554/

Felicia Barton (terrific take on Corinne Bailey Rae):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/louisville_gallery/37579/

Alexis Grace:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/louisville_gallery/37541

Leneshe Young:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/louisville_gallery/37551/

Brent Smith:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/louisville_gallery/37565/

Matt Giraud:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/louisville_gallery/37567/

Aaron Williamson:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/louisville_gallery/37570/

Shera Lawrence (appeared for a few ticks singing “I’ve Got the World on a String”):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/louisville_gallery/37583/

Ryan Johnson (sang Sam Cooke):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/louisville_gallery/37536/

Felicia Barton extra! I have learned that Felicia sings Christian praise and worship music at Freedom Fellowship in Virginia Beach, VA; their MySpace page, which plays their music in the background that showcases more of her wonderful vocal talent, is here:

http://www.myspace.com/freedomworship

I don't even know if I am suggesting that there should be a rule that if you were signed to a major label once that you should automatically be excluded, but Joanna has been on major movie soundtracks. Joanna had one of her songs covered by Britney Spears. She really doesn't need AI, and the viewership of AI wants unknowns, not has-beens trying for another run-around, even if (hypothetically) they were screwed over by a record company.If you're into comedy and have watched Last Comic Standing on NBC, you may have noticed there are few novices among the contestants. Many of them are actually lesser-known pros, looking to go big or veterans trying to be rediscovered. I happen to like comedy, so it matters not if they're rookies or pros.

BTW, Belinda Doolittle from a few years back, was already a seasoned professional when she auditioned for AI.

IIRC, Melinda Doolittle had a career as a backup singer. I don't think that she had been signed by a record label. I think that having had a recording contract should be a disqualifier.

Ain't that the truth. I smelled "plant" when I saw her audition. She was too professional, too polished and just so full of fake, "I hope I'm okay!" just like Carly did last year. This one is prettier than Carly, but less slightly less talented vocally. My fiance said they should've just brought out the pot and soil for this plant, as it was so obvious. Jeez!

I saw another plant in Louisville, but I forgot her (or was it his) name.

It was a "he." Someone from Season 2 of Nashville Star. In some ways, that's worse because he was already in a reality singing competition. Kind of like how AI 1 finalist Nikki Mckibbin was on WB's "Popstar" singing reality competition show.

There should be a rule against that at the very least. Say what you will about people kicked off labels and all that, but we really shouldn't have people in the top 10 of Nashville Star coming over here because they couldn't win NS, and vice versa.

My opinion is they should let anyone try out. Even famous singers... let's see if they can compete. I'd love to see if Diana Krall could go all the way. :)

IIRC, Melinda Doolittle had a career as a backup singer. I don't think that she had been signed by a record label. I think that having had a recording contract should be a disqualifier.

It's interesting how this only came up in this season and last.

The reason is, AI did pretty much avoid letting people in who had previous MAJOR recording contracts, even if the rules did not forbid it. I suspect many of these Carly and Joanna types did try out in early seasons, but the producers nixed them before getting to an audition with the judges.

BUT there have been a couple of seasons where the media/fans complained about weak talent in the finals. The season with Fantasia was one of them, so was the season that had Sanjaya (most recently).

Then all of a sudden we saw Carly and Kristi Lee Cook, and this season Joanna and the guy who was a finalist on Nashville Star Season 2. I don't think this was on accident.

I firmly believe the producers do not trust the judges to make good choices, and thus these days when these people who had been dumped by major record labels show up, they let them audition for the judges [I don't know how many of your realize that thousands of good singers don't even get to audition for the judges because the producers tell them "sorry, but you aren't what we are looking for." I've heard this from just about everyone I personally knew who tried out for AI, except for a girl who tried out and got a golden ticket this year only to not get shown in her Phoenix audition show and to get the boot sometime in Hollywood.] so that there will be no risk when it comes to time to pick a top 32 or whatever of the judges letting through a subpar singer.

And I guess I understand that in some respect, but the producers need to take heed of the press and fans on message boards complaining about "plants," as they did when everyone complained that a certain season's finalists were weak.

I don't think just having a record contract means much for your career. There are a zillion artists out there with contracts that don't sell squat or get any exposure.

This show is about making someone an idol. That's way above just cutting a record and seeing if your usual bar following will buy enough for you to catch on somehow. Most of these contractees don't get much of a publicity push and are stuck relying on making their live following grow. They essentially remain anonymous to most of us. Also, this is about overall exposure. It is hard to become an idol without a exposure to your cute and charming personality. The public has got to think they know you a little. A studio singer just won't get that exposure.

So let all relative nobodies apply, past experience is a plus.

It was a "he." Someone from Season 2 of Nashville Star. In some ways, that's worse because he was already in a reality singing competition. Kind of like how AI 1 finalist Nikki Mckibbin was on WB's "Popstar" singing reality competition show.

There should be a rule against that at the very least. Say what you will about people kicked off labels and all that, but we really shouldn't have people in the top 10 of Nashville Star coming over here because they couldn't win NS, and vice versa.

Syesha from last season was previously on "The One".

My opinion is they should let anyone try out. Even famous singers... let's see if they can compete. I'd love to see if Diana Krall could go all the way. :)

She wouldn't even make it to Hollywood. The producers want bland pop, sugar rock, tame country and sucky R&B. I love R&B. However, the R&B talent from the show including Ruben has been less than stellar. I will give props to Carrie Underwood on the country front, but she's no Tanya Tucker.

Jill Scott, Diana Krall, Amy Winehouse, Tori Amos, Alicia Keys, Neko Case, etc. would never make it on American (or even the original British) Idol because they are different from most other "stars" out there. They actually have personalities. (Sara Evans and Natasha Bedingfield are two mainstreamers that I could see making it on Idol based on what I've seen go through.)

Ever notice how the judges try to apply a cookie cutter (rocker, pop, R&B, soul, jazz, country, Whitney Houston, etc.) mold to every singer out there? I'm not blaming them for doing it. That's what the music industry does. Honestly, that's part of why the industry is in trouble now.

Jill Scott, Diana Krall, Amy Winehouse, Tori Amos, Alicia Keys, Neko Case, etc. would never make it on American (or even the original British) Idol because they are different from most other "stars" out there. They actually have personalities. (Sara Evans and Natasha Bedingfield are two mainstreamers that I could see making it on Idol based on what I've seen go through.)

I like how they opened the season with a song by... Louis Armstrong. Imagine a guy with that voice walking into an AI audition, growling his way through absolute classics like "What a Wonderful World" or "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off"? Randy would be laughing his ass off at this pathetic voice, Simon would watch in disbelief, Paula would look clueless as usual, and Kara would try to think of something nice to say before telling him he should find some other line of work.

Jill Scott, Diana Krall, Amy Winehouse, Tori Amos, Alicia Keys, Neko Case, etc. would never make it on American (or even the original British) Idol because they are different from most other "stars" out there. They actually have personalities. (Sara Evans and Natasha Bedingfield are two mainstreamers that I could see making it on Idol based on what I've seen go through.)

Ever notice how the judges try to apply a cookie cutter (rocker, pop, R&B, soul, jazz, country, Whitney Houston, etc.) mold to every singer out there? I'm not blaming them for doing it. That's what the music industry does. Honestly, that's part of why the industry is in trouble now.

Of course all of those people would have made it to Hollywood. The question is could they have made it through Hollywood week? Could they have sang well in a group? Could they make it through the final solo after going through the grinder for several days. This competition is tough even for great singers.

I like how they opened the season with a song by... Louis Armstrong. Imagine a guy with that voice walking into an AI audition, growling his way through absolute classics like "What a Wonderful World" or "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off"? Randy would be laughing his ass off at this pathetic voice, Simon would watch in disbelief, Paula would look clueless as usual, and Kara would try to think of something nice to say before telling him he should find some other line of work.

But you have to remember that Louis Armstrong's instrument wasn't primarily his voice but his trumpet.

But you have to remember that Louis Armstrong's instrument wasn't primarily his voice but his trumpet.

Then why did he sing on all of his hit records, even when he had far more talented vocalists in his band like Jack Teagarden and Trummy Young?

Of course all of those people would have made it to Hollywood. The question is could they have made it through Hollywood week? Could they have sang well in a group? Could they make it through the final solo after going through the grinder for several days. This competition is tough even for great singers.

No way would Tori Amos make it to Hollywood. Honestly, I don't think Alicia Keys would, either. If Alicia made it, it would strictly be on looks. Her voice isn't the type of voice they go for. However, Amanda Overmeyer made it out of Hollywood last year with a gravely voice. So, maybe I am being a bit too cynical. I forgot about Vanessa Carlton (picking on all the pianists right now). She wouldn't make it on Idol, either.

Amazing how people never seem to tire of these pointless arguments - the producers push who they want, real singers can't make it, professionals shouldn't be allowed, blah blah blah. Just laugh at the bad singers and enjoy the performances of the good ones, don't get caught up in saying the show is supposed to be this or that - just take it as entertainment and move on.

I'm still looking forward to seeing if there's any backlash about Jennifer and Tom Korbee. Their auditions haven't been shown yet, but they at least make it to Hollywood and I think have a good chance at the top 36. The backlash will come from Jennifer's professional history. Though she didn't have a big recording deal like some others, she was one of the stars of the kiddy show Hi-5 (U.S. version) that ran for several years on TLC and is still on Discovery Kids. 3 seasons of shows, 5 years of touring doing concerts, multiple appearances on morning talk shows, multiple CDs and DVDs released from the show. How many other Idol contestants can be found in toy form? She's going to be a whole lot more comfortable with the entire Idol experience than most of the contestants - does that give her an unfair edge?

The thing is that she's actually pretty darn talented and seems to be the kind of person that you'd like to see do well. Both Jennifer and her husband Tom have released independent albums in the past, but it is pretty clear that their career paths weren't going to lead to a big break like Idol could provide. I'd like to see them get that break - but will people complain that's not what the show is about?

We have our final three audition shows this week:

Tonight: Jacksonville (from the looks of the previews, it was raining in Jax at that time...hopefully it's not a metaphor ;))
Tomorrow: Salt Lake City
Thursday: East Rutherford, NJ (NYC) and San Juan

WNYW-DT FOX5 FiOS TV
Anyone else getting major video breakup on the HD and SD feeds around 8:15pm?

WNYW-DT FOX5 FiOS TV
Anyone else getting major video breakup on the HD and SD feeds around 8:15pm?

Yep. Cablevision via QAM.

I think the kid at the end that brought his guitar in got a raw deal as he sang that Third Eye Blind song pretty good and was better IMO than a couple of the gold ticket winners at the start of the show.

I think the kid at the end that brought his guitar in got a raw deal as he sang that Third Eye Blind song pretty good and was better IMO than a couple of the gold ticket winners at the start of the show.
IMO he was not that good, or at least of David Cook caliber.

As for the rest of tonight's featured auditioners...

I would keep my eye on Anne Marie Boskovich (the one who got an "emergency makeover" before facing the judges a second time); she sounded so beautiful singing Colbie Caillat. Also, watch out for Jasmine Murray (inasmuch as I have not listened much to anything by Fergie, she did a good job at her tryout) and Sharon Wilbur (did the Carpenters' "Superstar" very well).

OTOH, I was astonished at some of the Fantastic Four's choices to advance to Hollywood (aka Hell) Week. Joshua Ulloa IMO was a bit over the top on his Marvin Gaye; T.K. Hash sounded a bit like, well, hash; and Julissa Veloz (the beauty queen), while doing Whitney Whatshername admirably, does not look to me like star material (but may be good for a few laughs in La-La Land).

And, I feel sorry for Darin Darnell, whose mind was obviously elsewhere (his buddy from the holding room getting rejected just before him). Cheer up, Darin, there's always next year.:)

And, I feel sorry for Darin Darnell, whose mind was obviously elsewhere (his buddy from the holding room getting rejected just before him). Cheer up, Darin, there's always next year.:)

I agree 100% with Simon on poor Darin. If you are THAT sensitive, there's NO WAY you will EVER make it in the music business. It's an absolutely brutal profession. Darin had no business being there. If his friend didn't make it, he needed to put that aside and FOCUS on his task. Personally, I think it's ridiculous to cry and fall apart over a guy you've only known a few hours.:confused: He should have been glad there was one fewer person to compete with. This is a "competition".

I think the kid at the end that brought his guitar in got a raw deal as he sang that Third Eye Blind song pretty good and was better IMO than a couple of the gold ticket winners at the start of the show.

I think it's interesting how now AI allows the use of instruments on stage for the finals, but keeps it out for auditions.

If you can play the guitar and sing while in the top 10, why not during the audition? That's how Canadian Idol worked and it seems to make sense.

That guy, Darin for example, probably would never ever sing without playing his guitar. Kara even pointed that out.

That girl that sang, then left and was allowed to come back was awesome. Her voice was simply amazing. I was really impressed. Great control and everything. My favorite so far.

Why is it that there has been almost NO disagreements among the judges shown as far as voting goes? Almost every vote has been unanimous. There have been a few 3-1 votes, but has there been a 2-2 situation? How can that be? You would think that would make good TV.

I think it's interesting how now AI allows the use of instruments on stage for the finals, but keeps it out for auditions.
There are a lot of great singers who weren't born with the gift of perfect pitch. They're nightmares if they try to sing a cappella but sing great with any instrument to keep them in pitch. AI apparently doesn't want these people.

Why is it that there has been almost NO disagreements among the judges shown as far as voting goes? Almost every vote has been unanimous. There have been a few 3-1 votes, but has there been a 2-2 situation? How can that be? You would think that would make good TV.

There was a 2-2 vote the first week. Simon was one of the 'yes' votes and the person went throught to Hollywood.

That girl that sang, then left and was allowed to come back was awesome. Her voice was simply amazing. I was really impressed. Great control and everything. My favorite so far.
Ann Marie. Making her put makeup on and change her clothes was ridiculous. They knew they were going to send her anyway.

We have our final three audition shows this week:

Tonight: Jacksonville (from the looks of the previews, it was raining in Jax at that time...hopefully it's not a metaphor ;))
Tomorrow: Salt Lake City
Thursday: East Rutherford, NJ (NYC) and San Juan

Interesting how they are compressing the schedule of showing the auditions, considering even many non hardcore AI fans enjoy the auditions.

Maybe it's because several of the cities were not great -> horrible, especially San Juan.

Oh well, only a few more nights to see if any black singers this time around have followed my advice that since we never see a black rocker (or black country singer), such a sound would get rave reviews for being unique and could propel someone far, even if after AI they go back to r&b or somethin.

[even if the sound is not really unique, people cannot erase racial stereotypes they have, such as black people who can sing only do gospel/hip hop/r&b...these stereotypes in the right hands can be used to someone's advantage as breaking away from those stereotypes gets you the automatic "unique, you could go far in this competition" tag]

I could not help but laugh so hard at Tara Mathews’ audition; it was so bad it was funny.:D The same for Chris Kirkham; not to be outdone by Andrew Lang, he brought a personal cheerleader-a friend in a bunny costume.

OTOH, there are quite a few Salt Lake auditioners to watch for in Hollywood:

There may be a few viewers out there who would vote for David Osmond because of his connections to Utah’s first family of music, yet I think he may be a factor based on how well he sang Take 6.

Frankie Jordan did Amy Winehouse like a pro, while Megan Corkrey immediately wowed me with her song (though the tattoo on her right arm may turn off some viewers if she makes it to the top 36-see what you started, Carly Smithson?:rolleyes:)

The way Taylor Vaifanua sang “Joyful, Joyful,” you would think she came straight out of a church choir. And I was very impressed by Rose Flack-not just by her backstory, but by the way she aced Carole King; I think she has a shot at the top 12.

Lots of talent came out of Salt Lake City. Several potential top twelves.

This season the audition stage seems so predictable. I mean, everyone here knows the rule, right? If they show a clip of you at home, you are going to Hollywood. No suspense whatsoever.

If they only show you at the audition site, it could go either way, depends on the tone of the promo piece. And they don't show many people truly on the fence. It's either four yes' or all no's.

This season the audition stage seems so predictable. I mean, everyone here knows the rule, right? If they show a clip of you at home, you are going to Hollywood. No suspense whatsoever.

If they only show you at the audition site, it could go either way, depends on the tone of the promo piece. And they don't show many people truly on the fence. It's either four yes' or all no's.

Well, obviously they're not going to take the time and pay the expense of traveling after an audition to the hometown of the singer to film a background story if they were booted off. So, yes, we already know they made it when they start telling their background story.

This season the audition stage seems so predictable. I mean, everyone here knows the rule, right? If they show a clip of you at home, you are going to Hollywood. No suspense whatsoever.


Not always true. They did a trip home for an auditioner last season. I can't remember the name, but I think she lived with her mother. she was inda scary-looking. She was horrible, and didn't make it through. I seem to remember a LOT of 'logoed-out' middle fingers after the audition, too.

Not always true. They did a trip home for an auditioner last season. I can't remember the name, but I think she lived with her mother. she was inda scary-looking. She was horrible, and didn't make it through. I seem to remember a LOT of 'logoed-out' middle fingers after the audition, too.
Was that the Willem Dafoe look-a-like?:D
Alexis Cohen

*L* Yes. good memory.

http://backseatcuddler.com/2008/01/16/alexis-cohen-responds-to-angry-american-idol-viewers/

*L* Yes. good memory.

http://backseatcuddler.com/2008/01/16/alexis-cohen-responds-to-angry-american-idol-viewers/Quite the angry, deluded, psychopath after the audition.

Not always true. They did a trip home for an auditioner last season. I can't remember the name, but I think she lived with her mother. she was inda scary-looking. She was horrible, and didn't make it through. I seem to remember a LOT of 'logoed-out' middle fingers after the audition, too.

I think I remember that too. But, remember, they go film the background story AFTER the audition, so they certainly already know if they made it or not. I guess if they feel a background story is compelling enough for someone who was booted off, they would still do it.

Pics from Jacksonville:

Sharon Wilbur: http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/jacksonville_gallery/37677/

Joshua Ulloa:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/jacksonville_gallery/37658/ (with cool shades)
http://media.mjsbigblog.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/1-jacks.jpg (are they boxers or briefs? ;))

Julissa “Candidata” Veloz:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/jacksonville_gallery/37680/

Jasmine Murray:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/jacksonville_gallery/37626/

George Ramirez (physics major who butchered “Walking On Sunshine”):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/jacksonville_gallery/37628/

T.K. Hash:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/jacksonville_gallery/37640/

Michael Perrelli:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/jacksonville_gallery/37639/

Anne Marie Boskovich:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/jacksonville_gallery/37637/ (with jacket on, before her speed makeover)
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/jacksonville_gallery/37647/ (after her makeover, singing “Bubbly”)

Was that the Willem Dafoe look-a-like?:D
Alexis Cohen

Quite the angry, deluded, psychopath after the audition.
Strange you should mention Alexis Cohen...she was shown on tonight's show, auditioning in NYC. Suffice it to say she is STILL not even a fairly decent singer, or that she does not take rejection lightly. The more things change, the more they stay the same.:(

Overall, I was not as impressed with tonight's NYC/San Juan audition show as I was with last night's SLC show. It seemed to me to be a bit too heavy on the bad auditions...and yet one of them, Nick "Norman Gentle" Mitchell, was put through. :eek: Like Tatiana Del Toro from S.F., I don't think he will last long in Hollywood.

Even so, there were some really good singers featured tonight. I think that two of them, Jackie Tohn and Patricia Rohman, may be dark horses to make the top 36. I was also impressed by Ashley Hollister and Kendall Beard, two women who were (sadly) shown for only about five seconds each. Melinda Camile (the NY auditioner who liked to dance naked) was very charming.

That's it for this year's audition shows. We spend the next two weeks experiencing the Hollywood round, where we really separate the wheat from the chaff.:)

Well, obviously they're not going to take the time and pay the expense of traveling after an audition to the hometown of the singer to film a background story if they were booted off. So, yes, we already know they made it when they start telling their background story.

My thing is, there was some fun in the suspense. Like when Clay Aiken auditioned. Everyone thought he was yet another horrible geek, but boy were we wrong (at least for the show, I loved him on AI, but not after).

Now there is no suspense.

Even worse than the background giveaway is the use of the stupid reality tv trick: showing "Coming up" scenes to promo your upcoming segments that will air after the commercial break.

This is a cheap trick to keep people watching your show. My wife likes Real Housewives of OC and they do it there, and other reality shows do it too. With AI audition stage though, doing this tips off who is going to be good and who is going to suck. Once again, another suspense killer.

DVR cut off... what happened with the 16 year old girl who brought her 9 year old brother? Did she make it through?

Yes

Even worse than the background giveaway is the use of the stupid reality tv trick: showing "Coming up" scenes to promo your upcoming segments that will air after the commercial break.

But if you click through those on your DVR like they're commercials, you'll get another eight to ten minutes of your life back. They're just commercials for a show you're already watching.

Damn, after watching lots of performance, I think the show should change its name to "American Idiots" instead.

I thought the girl who had been in "hundreds of contest" should have made it through. They made it sound like she was horrible, but she was better than some of the people they let through. I think it is a bit too early to predict who will make it in Hollywood. I am not sure if it is true or not, but it feels like the early audition phase was a lot shorter than last year. Hollywood week has always been my favorite part of the show.

That's it for this year's audition shows. We spend the next two weeks experiencing the Hollywood round, where we really separate the wheat from the chaff.:)
Now I'll start watching...
The open auditions have turned into more of a freak show than a talent search so I haven't watched them for the past three seasons.

That guy was so funny he had me laughing out loud. His Seacrest line was awesome. I also loved when he said he wouldn't beg then collapsed to the ground begging. Best audition of the series ever.

That guy was so funny he had me laughing out loud. His Seacrest line was awesome. I also loved when he said he wouldn't beg then collapsed to the ground begging. Best audition of the series ever.

Most entertaining audition for sure, but he's the odds on favorite to be the first to receive the boot in Hollywood.

Now I'll start watching...
The open auditions have turned into more of a freak show than a talent search so I haven't watched them for the past three seasons.

It's funny you say that because if you had watched the auditions this season, you would have seen that they showed more people that made it through (or on the fence) than the freaks.

That guy was so funny he had me laughing out loud. His Seacrest line was awesome. I also loved when he said he wouldn't beg then collapsed to the ground begging. Best audition of the series ever.
I still like the guy from two seasons ago who came to the tryouts with his more talented cousin, signed up for the hell of it, and suddenly found himself in front of Simon and everyone. This huge guy mumbled through "Amazing Grace" while the judges laughed and laughed. He could barely get through it with a straight face.

After he admitted he wasn't a serious singer, he got the judges' permission to to storm out of the audition screaming back at the judges to freak out his cousin. "Don't make me come back in there! That was good singin'!"

That was a perfect parody of every freak who is convinced they can sing and have never experienced rejection in their lives. The guy couldn't sing but he knew exactly how to entertain the judges.

But, remember, they go film the background story AFTER the audition, so they certainly already know if they made it or not. I guess if they feel a background story is compelling enough for someone who was booted off, they would still do it.

Actually, I don't believe that is the chronology.

The first audition is a cattle call where they get the footage of the throngs of people trying out en masse. These people go before producers and assistants and are told yea or nay depending on potential, interesting backstory, talent, or trainwreck potential. They will then follow some of these people back home and tape their segments. Then there is a second audition where they sing in front of the judges. That is why, for instance, the "NYC" auditions keep flopping between the Meadowlands in Rutherford NJ (cattle call) and wherever the judges auditions was held this year (a few years ago it was at Chelsea Pier). That also why, if you notice, Bikini Girl was brunette for the judges but when they cut to her waiting outisde with the masses, she was blond. I'm sure they order them to wear the same outfit for continuity's sake.

This explains why some of the singers appear so deluded -- in order to entice the trainwreck contestants to come back, they are probably told they are really good, which is why it is so shocking for them to hear from Simon et al that they are bad. Think how you would feel if the producers told you that you were great, flew in a film crew to your home to shoot a segment, and then, after all that, the judges unanimously tell you that you should quit singing. If you were sort of deluded in the first place, it would probably be soul crushing, hence the adundance of tears and anger.

And the Philly woman who went nuts last year with the finger salutes cam back this year. I guess some people never learn (or perhaps the producers asked her back for entertainment purposes, who knows -- the show certainly has a some of its roots in malevolence).

Pics from Salt Lake:

Rose Flack:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/salt_lake_city_gallery/38616/

David Osmond:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/salt_lake_city_gallery/38623/

Frankie Jordan:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/salt_lake_city_gallery/38635/

Megan Corkrey:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/salt_lake_city_gallery/38618/

Taylor Vaifanua:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/salt_lake_city_gallery/38644/

Chris Kirkham (and bunny pal):
http://media.mjsbigblog.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/3-slc.jpg

Large group of enthusiastic auditioners waiting outside the arena:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/salt_lake_city_gallery/38246/

Pics from NYC and San Juan:

Melinda Camile:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/new_york_area_gallery/

Jorge Nunez:
http://media.mjsbigblog.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/2-nyc.jpg
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/san_juan_gallery/39256/

Jackie Tohn:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/new_york_area_gallery/38648/

Nick Mitchell (aka Norman Not-So-Gentle):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/new_york_area_gallery/38695/

Ashley Hollister (appeared for a few seconds singing “Baby It’s You”):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/new_york_area_gallery/38652/

Kendall Beard (briefly appeared acing Martina McBride, may very well be a dark horse in Hollywood):
http://media.mjsbigblog.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/10-nyc.jpg

Kenny Hoffpauer (briefly appeared singing Jason Mraz):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/new_york_area_gallery/38675/

Monique Torres:
http://media.mjsbigblog.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/11-nyc.jpg (with kid brother)
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/san_juan_gallery/39265/

Patricia Roman:
http://media.mjsbigblog.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/13-nyc.jpg
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/san_juan_gallery/39273/

Joel Contreras (aka iPod Man):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/auditions/san_juan_gallery/39255/

I decided against posting any pics of Alexis Cohen; she looks about as horrible as she sings.;)

EDIT: I put up additional links to the San Juan auditioners; I did not find the AI site's SJ gallery until today (2/1).

I'm still looking forward to seeing if there's any backlash about Jennifer and Tom Korbee. Their auditions haven't been shown yet, but they at least make it to Hollywood and I think have a good chance at the top 36. The backlash will come from Jennifer's professional history. Though she didn't have a big recording deal like some others, she was one of the stars of the kiddy show Hi-5 (U.S. version) that ran for several years on TLC and is still on Discovery Kids. 3 seasons of shows, 5 years of touring doing concerts, multiple appearances on morning talk shows, multiple CDs and DVDs released from the show.

I don't think they ever showed them, did they? How do you know they made it to Hollywood?

Their auditions weren't shown, but they were the couple kissing during the gold ticket montage after the New York show. According to the top 36 spoilers making the rounds now, they don't make the cut. Looks like a few people make the top 36 cut who shouldn't even have made it to Hollywood.

I really can't see the logic behind having the group tryouts again this year. If these are solo singers why have them perform in a group to be assessed as an individual? Maybe I missed it but I have never heard a good/sensible explaination from either of the judges as to why they make the contestants do this. Anybody here have any ideas?
I'll make a wild guess that we'll see the usual goof offs who will party the night away instead of practicing their songs, or can't decide on a song etc.

As the Hollywood round starts up tonight, I came across this USA Today article which highlighted 12 hopefuls who in the writer's opinion made the best impression during their auditions:

http://www.usatoday.com/life/television/news/2009-02-02-idol-standouts_N.htm

Interesting to note: Danny Gokey (aced Marvin Gaye in K.C.), one of the 12 on the list linked above, already seems to have the largest fan base of any contestant this year; his fan list on the AI fan forums is about a mile long.

The performances that stood out for me tonight came from Danny, Lil, Anoop, Jackie and David, all of whom seem to be picking up fans (as I have seen from the fan forum activity). Emily Wynne-Hughes (the pink-haired girl from the Phoenix auditions) fared admirably singing No Doubt (after changing her song choice at the last minute, which IMO was not so good for her), but I am unsure about her down the road after seeing the judges’ reactions.

Von Smith to me was disappointing with his song, but he is as of now still alive; he needs to tone down his voice a bit. Rose Flack and Katrina Darrell (wearing what looked like a trash bag) were so-so, but are also still alive, as is Nick Mitchell (“Norman Semi-Gentle”), who never ceases to make me laugh-I can only imagine him hamming it up during tomorrow’s group songs and throwing the others off key.;)

There were some notables who missed the first cut. I can probably understand Dennis Brigham (who sucked on stage and threw a fit after learning of his fate) and Patricia Roman…but Jessica Furney, the bespectacled teen caregiver who nailed Janis in K.C.? DRAT! I thought Jessica was a dark horse to make the top 12. Apparently, her Hollywood performance was so bad, it was not even shown tonight.:(

All the more reason to tune in again tomorrow, for more possible big surprises.

I really can't see the logic behind having the group tryouts again this year. If these are solo singers why have them perform in a group to be assessed as an individual? Maybe I missed it but I have never heard a good/sensible explaination from either of the judges as to why they make the contestants do this. Anybody here have any ideas?
I'll make a wild guess that we'll see the usual goof offs who will party the night away instead of practicing their songs, or can't decide on a song etc.

They still have to put on a show. They have at least one group performance a week once they get to the final twelve. So it is good to know if you have some one who can not get along with other. It also test the contestants ability to perform and stand out in a group of talented performers.

Overall there were a lot of good talent showcased during the show.

Is it true that Hollywood week is lasting 2 weeks? If so that's pretty cool.

Interesting to note: Danny Gokey (aced Marvin Gaye in K.C.), one of the 12 on the list linked above, already seems to have the largest fan base of any contestant this year; his fan list on the AI fan forums is about a mile long.

I am predicting Danny to win it all. Not only does he seem to be one of the most talented, he has the sympathy story that is going to play to his advantage with the voters.


And I personally thought that Lil's version of I Will Always Love You was god awful. It never ceases to amaze me that these border line talents think they can pull that song off.

... Maybe I missed it but I have never heard a good/sensible explaination from either of the judges as to why they make the contestants do this. Anybody here have any ideas?
...

I'm guessing it's because there's 75% fewer auditions that the judges have to sit through compared to individual auditions.

Hollywood week is two weeks of airtime but most of that airtime will be people getting in the elevator, walking down to the judges tables, people out and about in So. Calif., images of the judges sitting around, images of contestants hugging, crying , laughing and very little for us to see of them actually singing.

Von Smith to me was disappointing with his song, but he is as of now still alive; he needs to tone down his voice a bit.
He was one that I was amazed made it to Hollywood. He sang "Over the Rainbow" like it was the National Anthem of Oz. I figured maybe he sang a song way better than that and it wasn't aired but after his Hollywood performance, I think he sings every song like the National Anthem. And I still don't know why they're letting him stick around. :confused:

I almost forgot to mention Barry Manilow made an appearance as a mentor during the "boot camp" last night. (AI vocal coach Debra Byrd sang backup for Barry during his 70's heyday.)

If what TPTB wanted was high drama for tonight’s group performances, they got it in more ways than one. Simon’s line said it all for me: “Has anyone got any Advil?”:D

My standout performances tonight: Matt Giraud, India Morrison, Anne Marie Boskovich (though I think she still needs to work a bit more on her stage presence), Adam Lambert, Matt Breitzke, Taylor Vaifanua, Jesse Langseth (I don't recall seeing her in the audition shows) and, giving another sterling performance, Danny Gokey.

Notable cuts: Austin Sisneros, Julissa “No Hay Candidata” Veloz (she was a bit of a creampuff anyway), Emily Wynne-Hughes (I did not think she would go that far either), Rose Flack, Nancy Wilson, and Katrina “Bikini Girl” Darrell, who showed off her diva side in more ways than one.

Even so, I am still amazed that Tatiana Del Toro, whose social skills are not much better than Katrina’s, is still alive, even given that her vocals were fairly decent. I am hoping that she will butcher whatever song(s) she sings next Tuesday.;)

Bikini girl is gone!!! :(

Yay!

Well so far, this season has been a mixed bag. I thought the shortened initial auditions was much better. But Hollywood week so far has been an annoying snoozfest. Tuesday night's show was completely forgetable. And last night's 'Group' night was horrible. The way they focused on only 3 groups, you would have thought they were the only one's still left in the competition. What about the other 90-something people? And what's up with the judges and the whiney, cry-baby, drama queen of a wimp with the hardware implanted in his lower lip? The guy just Blows. Yet, they keep putting him through.

I would have preferred a little more singing and a little less drama. The one advantage this year is that the judges will judge more of the preliminary rounds so the way the show gets cut does not hurt some of the contestants.

There looked to be some really good performances that were not shown which is a shame.

Anyone ever notice that the program segments are really short and the commercial breaks are really long? I think I timed one segment as only 5 minutes before the next commercial break started.

Shhesh.

Bikini girl is gone!!! :(


She was unbelievable. :eek: A classic example of a very pretty girl who's had everything in her life handed to her on a silver platter because of what she looks like. She's never had to develop any significant social skills other than smiling and vamping. Girls like that often don't for the simple reason that they don't need to. All she needs to do is keep skating through life and pick the richest putz she can find to marry (she'll have many, many offers from which to choose). When he tires of her, she'll get a bundle in the settlement and if she's still young enough, she can start the whole process over again. She's probably never worked a day in her life, and thanks to winning the genetic lottery, she won't ever have to. :rolleyes:

Barring any complete meltdowns...

Final 2: Danny Gokey and Adam Lambert

I would have preferred a little more singing and a little less drama.
Man, when you subtract the drama, the replays of the drama, the "coming up..." bumpers, Ryan saying what we already know, and the commercials, there was about ten minutes of actual performance. And half of that was not very good.

I would have preferred a little more singing and a little less drama...
There looked to be some really good performances that were not shown which is a shame.

I was disappointed not to hear "Noop Dogg" (Anoop Desai, the dorky looking Indian guy who can sing) during the group round and I watched carefully and only saw him for a fraction of a second, and it's not clear if he survived to next week or not.

I am surprised the producers don't look for additional revenue streams. For example, I was thinking about, in addition to AI shows, an AI PPV. $0.99 ot $1.99 per PPV, and each PPV gives you a lot more than what you see during the FOX broadcast.

For example, a PPV with all of the first Hollywood round. A PPV with all of the group auditions.

PPV's that show tons more of the initial auditions, perhaps the ability to see everyone who comes before the judges (not even nearly as many people who go before producers and get cut).

All of these PPV's would air after the FOX version so that FOX doesn't lose out on viewers. The idea is you watch the group round, want to see more, so you buy the PPV to get it all.

The PPV buy rate for stuff like this wouldn't be earth shattering, but I bet it would be enough to make additional profit and we already know everything gets filmed so that's not a hurdle there. The PPV could be TV or internet based, or even both.

I would think PPV would be a good route for more money and to appease hardcore fans who want more.

I would think PPV would be a good route for more money and to appease hardcore fans who want more.

Shouldn't we be trying to help those poor people? You don't help a crackhead by giving him more crack. :p

Shouldn't we be trying to help those poor people? You don't help a crackhead by giving him more crack. :p
Well that's just not a good capitalistic attitude. :rolleyes: Now they all so desperately want to be seen on TV, so let's charge 'em out the wazoo to do so. And hopefully they'll tell all their family and friends, and their friends, and we'll all become stinkingly rich. See you don't "give" 'em crack, you "sell" 'em crack :D

I was disappointed not to hear "Noop Dogg" (Anoop Desai, the dorky looking Indian guy who can sing) during the group round and I watched carefully and only saw him for a fraction of a second, and it's not clear if he survived to next week or not.

I would think PPV would be a good route for more money and to appease hardcore fans who want more.

I was thinking more along the lines that they would put the whole group round performances online for fans to see it in full. I imagine they do not want to pay more in royalties, but it would seem to me if Hulu can make money AI could make some money with extended cuts from the Hollywood round. I too would have loved to have seen what Anoop did in the group round. I am fairly certain he made it through to the next round.

Katrina Darrell's phone interview with Ryan this morning on his L.A. radio show:

http://mjsbigblog.com/ryan-seacrest-interviews-katrina-darrell-bikini-girl.htm

I'll leave it to you to listen and make your own conclusion...

Bikini girl is gone!!! :(

But coming soon to a Gentlemen's Club near you.

I would have preferred a little more singing and a little less drama. The one advantage this year is that the judges will judge more of the preliminary rounds so the way the show gets cut does not hurt some of the contestants.

There looked to be some really good performances that were not shown which is a shame.

We decided to let our 3.5yo son watch this show for the first time, promising that he would get to see "some singing" and knowing that the show is (mostly) family-friendly.

It was 4 commercial breaks before there was any "singing" of any kind...the poor kid kept asking, "when are they going to sing?" :(

On another note, the burgundy-haired girl that cursed out her blond-headed "teammate" after they were booted was a dead likeness for Aughra from the "Dark Crystal":

http://www.bookmice.net/darkchilde/dark/aughra.jpg

http://www.bookmice.net/darkchilde/dark/aughra.jpg

:D

But coming soon to a Gentlemen's Club near you.

She claimed to be a model/actress, so I guess she'll be making money from a web site pretty soon. ;)

Pics from the first day of the Hollywood round, including some folks who did not get any air time:

Group pic of all 147 ticket holders:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/hollywood_week_1/39816/

Tatiana, in a little black dress at the front of the stage (as the pic’s caption states, a “true Drama Queen”):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/hollywood_week_1/39818/

Emily singing No Doubt (again, a last-minute change of song choice; she had planned to sing “I Put A Spell On You”):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/hollywood_week_1/39819/

The Fantastic Four debating competitors’ fates:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/hollywood_week_1/39824/

Educated guess that this pic is of Megan Corkrey:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/hollywood_week_1/39827/

Katrina in her trash bag:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/hollywood_week_1/39831/

I think this is Jamar:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/hollywood_week_1/39833/

Dominique Brown looking gorgeous:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/hollywood_week_1/39839/
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/hollywood_week_1/39840/
(NOTE: Dominique auditioned in S.F.; she has not received any TV time as yet, but her looks still caught my eye.)

Jessica Furney (I am still a bit disappointed she missed the first cut):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/hollywood_week_1/39842/

Michael Castro:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/hollywood_week_1/39849/

Rose Flack:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/hollywood_week_1/39850/

Pics from group day, including some folks who did not get any air time:

Stevie Wright (as good as she is, I am surprised she has not been seen on TV perfoming since her Phoenix audition):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/group_performances/39862/

Danny, Jamar and Taylor:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/group_performances/39869/

Adam Lambert:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/group_performances/39871/

NYC auditioner Tom Korbee, with Joanna Pacitti (?) in the background:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/group_performances/39872/

Joanna (?) doing her solo:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/group_performances/39873/

I could not identify any of the folks pictured here (except for Alexis Grace on the far right), but they looked like they were having fun:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/group_performances/39879/

Alexis singing her solo:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/group_performances/39881/

Michael Castro (on the right):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/group_performances/39882/

Katrina doing her solo while Jasmine and Rose sing backup:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/group_performances/39884/

Not sure who this girl is, but she caught my eye because of the short shorts (is she channeling Haley Scarnato?):
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/group_performances/39890/

I think this is Felicia Barton:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/group_performances/39896/

Casey Carlson:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/group_performances/39899/

Tatiana, on the far right:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/group_performances/39902/

Scott McIntyre, second from left:
http://www.americanidol.com/photos/season_8/hollywood_week/group_performances/39905/

But coming soon to a Gentlemen's Club near you...and Playboy.

Bikini girl is gone!!! :(

Surprised nobody mentioned or posted a screen cap of the brief upskirt shot of her after she was booted and sat down (I think that is when it was). LOL :D

We decided to let our 3.5yo son watch this show for the first time, promising that he would get to see "some singing" and knowing that the show is (mostly) family-friendly.

It was 4 commercial breaks before there was any "singing" of any kind...the poor kid kept asking, "when are they going to sing?" :(

On another note, the burgundy-haired girl that cursed out her blond-headed "teammate" after they were booted was a dead likeness for Aughra from the "Dark Crystal":

http://www.bookmice.net/darkchilde/dark/aughra.jpg

http://www.bookmice.net/darkchilde/dark/aughra.jpg

:D

I thought everyone knows that the Hollywood round is when there is the least amount of singing. That's why historically the ratings suffer during Hollywood and in years past they've condensed it to one week (Tues - initial/group, Wed - final chance and separate contestants into rooms, thurs- the stupid show where it's all about the elevator and the long walk down the hall to find out if you got into the voting round).

You should have started your son with the beginning of the voting round. There will be singing and he can even vote for his favorite!

Besides the Bikini Girl stuff, the worst thing about the show from a family-friendly point of view in my book is the homophobia. You know, the Seacrest-Simon banter, which has been the subject of controversy from LGBT groups, and rightfully so.

If I were a parent, I wouldn't want my kid to have some deep rooted sense of homophobia where he/she would think it is an insult to call someone "gay." (or that gay can somehow be an insult, rather than a simple description).

Am I the only one who didn't think bikini girl was remotly hot? The only thing she had going for her was she was thin. She had nothing up top, and a flat behind, and her face wasn't much to look at either.

There is no way this girl would have made playboy if not for being an American Idol contestant. She is no more hot than someone like Paris Hilton, who aint hot.

Am I the only one who didn't think bikini girl was remotly hot?
Maybe in a room of average-looking women she'd be attractive. She isn't "television" hot.

I didn't think she was hot either. Her type is a dime a dozen (if you're willing to throw good money away).

Maybe in a room of average-looking women she'd be attractive. She isn't "television" hot.

Agreed, if she was sitting in the cube next to mine, I would probably say she's hot. If I were very wealthy and looking for some eye candy, I would certainly pass on her, or at least pony up for some implants :)

Speaking of hot, Kara looked awesome with her hair up tonight. Yummay.

I also can't wait until Tatiana Del Toro is voted off. Or hit by a bus. Which ever comes first. Please soon.

My apologies for not being able to post immediately after last night’s show; my ISP had network issues.

I was not too surprised by Michael Castro and India Morrison getting the ax, but Leneshe Young’s dismissal surprised me, given that she IMO put on a pretty good performance. Joanna Pacitti and Casey Carlson were a bit shaky, but I still think they are possibilities for the top 36.

Nick/Norman/Whatshisname, if nothing else, is quite the showman. If he does not make it on AI, he would be very good as a comedian. And, sometimes I wonder what’s inside Tatiana’s head; she’s quite a drama queen (you're not the only one who dislikes her, rustycruiser).

I can predict with a good bit of confidence that this year’s top 5 will come from among this group: Adam, Danny, Anoop, Scott, Stevie, Mishavonna (her performance last night was so stunning), Joanna, Casey, Anne Marie, Michael Sarver and Nathaniel.

Our top 36 will be revealed in a two-hour show tonight; you can bet I’ll be looking forward to it.

From the clips they showed, it sure looks like the men are much stronger/better singers this year. I was blown away by a lot of them male singers and underwhelmed by the female singers.

I am so glad the funny guy made it so far. He has a good voice and he provides humor, why not let him through. Everyone laughs and he sounds good. Sounds like a good combination to me.

And, sometimes I wonder what’s inside Tatiana’s head; she’s quite a drama queen (you're not the only one who dislikes her, rustycruiser).


I'm thinking most viewers *do* dislike her. I hope they don't put her through tonight, just to add to the PITA factor for next week.

Am I the only one who didn't think bikini girl was remotly hot? The only thing she had going for her was she was thin. She had nothing up top, and a flat behind, and her face wasn't much to look at either.

There is no way this girl would have made playboy if not for being an American Idol contestant. She is no more hot than someone like Paris Hilton, who aint hot.

As O'Reilly would say: "You need a better television set" She' was way hotter then PH if nothing else she's a brunette :D And even Kara said that she has a nice butt. But if she's not your thing it's all good, and I'm sure you got a better looking one at home, right? ;)

If your talking pure talent Tatiana does seem to have one of the better voices among the girls. I agree with WilliamR the guys seem to have much stronger voices this year. I am glad they are finally doing something with the Elevator (now stairwell) walk this year. I was thinking just how pointless that part of the show is if they already decided by splitting the performers into rooms.

I tend to wonder if other outside factors influence cuts at this stage of the contest. Those with potential or real baggage may have that influence their voices, which is why maybe some good singers leave before the real scrutiny begins and those who failed at the last singing phase stay on. I am sure the judges have that data and that heavily edited choosing deep into the night stuff includes other criteria we do not see.

I was not too surprised by Michael Castro and India Morrison getting the ax, but Leneshe Young’s dismissal surprised me, given that she IMO put on a pretty good performance.


My fiance' and I both think that Simon has other plans for Lenesha. Methinks she got a record deal somewhere the same day she was axed. Joanna needs to be flushed. She's not even a medium plant. She needs to go into a corner and find another career.

As O'Reilly would say: "You need a better television set" She' was way hotter then PH if nothing else she's a brunette :D And even Kara said that she has a nice butt. But if she's not your thing it's all good, and I'm sure you got a better looking one at home, right? ;)

my Panny plasma is just fine. And in actuality, I have done pretty well for myself with the one I have at home and she is certainly hotter than bikini girl. And no, I am not posting pics.

I saw Kara say she had a nice butt, and then they did a close up of it and there was nothing there.

Now Casey Carlson is hot, way better than Bikini Girl

http://caseycarlson.net/

Now Casey Carlson is hot, way better than Bikini Girl

http://caseycarlson.net/

I am officially naming you Hero of the Week for posting that link... wow.:cool:

Now Casey Carlson is hot, way better than Bikini Girl

http://caseycarlson.net/

I agree. Bikini Girl was a skank.

Am I the only one who didn't think bikini girl was remotly hot?

her makeup probably weighed more than she did.

Wonder who's mansion they filmed this at tonight.

Ugh. All I can say is this could be the most painful season ever to watch.

Wonder who's mansion they filmed this at tonight.
It didn't look familiar to me, but it sure looked beautiful. At least, it looked much more open than the "elevator of doom" from previous seasons.

So, who made it? Nearly all of my favorites so far-Danny, Adam, Joanna, Stevie, Anne Marie, Mishavonna to name a few-plus dark horses Jackie Tohn and Jesse Langseth, plus the two class clowns-Nick Mitchell and Tatiana Del Toro. (Tatiana is in the first group of 12 semifinalists that will perform for viewer votes next Tuesday-remind me to get ear plugs for that day so I can use them when she is on.:rolleyes:) I will try to find a complete list of the top 36 so I can post a link to it in the near future.

And who did not? Cody the horror film maker (IMO he sang better than Alex), Frankie Jordan, Jamar Rogers (Danny's BFF)...and Felicia Barton, who I thought had a shot at the top 6.:(

It didn't look familiar to me, but it sure looked beautiful. At least, it looked much more open than the "elevator of doom" from previous seasons.

So, who made it? Nearly all of my favorites so far-Danny, Adam, Joanna, Stevie, Anne Marie, Mishavonna to name a few-plus dark horses Jackie Tohn and Jesse Langseth, plus the two class clowns-Nick Mitchell and Tatiana Del Toro. (Tatiana is in the first group of 12 semifinalists that will perform for viewer votes next Tuesday-remind me to get ear plugs for that day so I can use them when she is on.:rolleyes:) I will try to find a complete list of the top 36 so I can post a link to it in the near future.

And who did not? Cody the horror film maker (IMO he sang better than Alex), Frankie Jordan, Jamar Rogers (Danny's BFF)...and Felicia Barton, who I thought had a shot at the top 6.:(

It was available two weeks ago, but spoilers are a no-no. Now, that it's been announced on the show...

http://www.votefortheworst.com/blogs/thefunnystone/20090211/ranking_american_idol_8_top_36_their_vftw_potential

IMHO, they should've sent that annoying (even more so than Tatiana) plant Joanna home and kept that cute blonde!

I'm thinking most viewers *do* dislike her. I hope they don't put her through tonight, just to add to the PITA factor for next week.
Did ya'll notice how many people did NOT stand and applaud when she made it through in the holding room?

Each time I see her I want to shoot myself with a gun in the head until I die.

Just as I realized where I know Jenn Korbee from (name didn't click right away since she was going by Jennifer Peterson-Hind on kids show HI-5), she gets sent home.

Did everyone (anyone?) notice Simon Cowell's big lie?

At the beginning of Hollywood Week, Simon said, "IF YOU FORGET THE WORDS, YOU ARE OUT."

Joanna Pacitti admitted and AI showed evidence that she forgot words in each part of Hollywood.

Regardless of the controversy, Simon flat out lied when he said you would be out if you forgot the words...he meant to say if you forgot the words and they didn't like you, you'd be out. If you are Joanna Pacitti, Simon's warnings don't carry any weight.

This is the kind of BS that screams "PLANT." It's extremely hypocritical and leaves a bad taste in our mouth when Simon lays down an edict about forgetting words, but then completely lets it go.

EDIT: Nevermind!!! Great news!!! Pacitti is OUT!!!
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/americanidoltracker/2009/02/contestant-swap.html

AI DQ'ed her. Sources say it is to remove the appearance of impropriety (because of her past relationship with someone or someones at 19 Entertainment, who produces AI...they should have just said it was because she forgot words in Hollywood Week and the judges had a strict rule about it) This is awesome news though.

I'm calling it now: an epic final between "Noop Dogg" Anoop Desai and the Blind Guy.

The first "top 12" should be fun. If two advance from the first top 12, I think it will be Anoop Desai and one of either David (the guy whose wife died shortly before the show started) or the oil rigger worker. If it's the top 3 of that group, that's it right there.

I think "America" will reject Tatiana, although the producers want her on for drama.

So, who made it?
And who did not? I know better than to look at this thread before I've watched the show, but I do believe it's inappropriate to post spoilers before the West Coast showing has aired.

I'm just saying...

I know better than to look at this thread before I've watched the show, but I do believe it's inappropriate to post spoilers before the West Coast showing has aired.

I'm just saying...

But you would incorrect. As soon as it airs on the East Coast, spoilers are allowed. Just resist the temptation to read avsforum for 3 hours. It can be done.

EDIT: Nevermind!!! Great news!!! Pacitti is OUT!!!
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/americanidoltracker/2009/02/contestant-swap.html

AI DQ'ed her. Sources say it is to remove the appearance of impropriety (because of her past relationship with someone or someones at 19 Entertainment, who produces AI...they should have just said it was because she forgot words in Hollywood Week and the judges had a strict rule about it) This is awesome news though.

No Carly Smithson 2.0 this year. :D

American Idol has a tendency to have a mixture of people who can genuinely sing and those that seriously suck but have such an enigmatic personality viewers like me will either love or despise. For the latter category, I find it hard to believe they allowed Tatiana (I'm so in love with me and oh my goodness, there is an I in my name), Nick..or Norman..or whoever the heck he is, and that male drama queen whose name has temporarily left me...and for good reason. Kind of interesting that there's the top 36 instead of the previous top 24. I'm rooting for Danny and am sad his buddy Jamar was dropped. And for Joanna bashers, ease off on her. I know you're in eternal bliss because she was disqualified. But controversy aside, what is it about her that you hate?

The UPDATED top 36 list is here:

http://www.americanidol.com/top_36

While I am happy that Felicia will be able to continue this season (as I previously mentioned, she IMO has top 6 potential), I feel a bit sorry for Joanna, because she had one of the best voices of this year's group.

EDIT: I removed my link to the report in MJ's Big Blog after I saw pappy97 posted the L.A. Times article about Joanna being booted...thanks, pappy.:)

But you would incorrect. As soon as it airs on the East Coast, spoilers are allowed. Just resist the temptation to read avsforum for 3 hours. It can be done.
Correct...that is what the mods here have been saying all along.

Meanwhile, here is the first group of 12 semifinalists that will perform next Tuesday, some of whom I will be watching with interest-and one I probably WON'T (guess who?):

Casey Carlson, Stephen Fowler, Jackie Tohn, Ricky Braddy, Anne Marie Boskovich, Brent Keith [Smith], Alexis Grace, Michael Sarver, Stevie Wright, Danny Gokey, Tatiana Del Toro, Anoop Desai.

AI DQ'ed her. Sources say it is to remove the appearance of impropriety (because of her past relationship with someone or someones at 19 Entertainment, who produces AI...they should have just said it was because she forgot words in Hollywood Week and the judges had a strict rule about it) This is awesome news though.

If they used that excuse for Pacitti, they'd have to remove Stephen Fowler, too. He was the guy that screwed up the words, restarted, screwed up the words again, and then walked off without finishing.

I can't believe they dragged that out for 2 hours. If they just told the people it would take an hour at most. Instead they sit there trying to be all cool with their twists of this is hard, don't get up and its not great news, pause, pause, pause, its fantastic news. Oh how sly of them. Lame.

If those two guys were really the last two then they already knew they were putting them both through. They needed 2 more to make the 36. So obviously they both made it. Why make them both sing and drag it out, it was already decided days before. Stupid.

Not letting Jamar through is ridiculous, considering others that did make it. As usual I question the judges' judgment.

I could also do without the phony suspense and the misleading edits during the "coming up" part (which don't work anyway). Also interesting the way the number of people in the waiting room kept going up and down.:rolleyes:

Danny is my favorite so far. Anoop may be second. Not many standouts among the women so far.

I can't believe they dragged that out for 2 hours. If they just told the people it would take an hour at most. Instead they sit there trying to be all cool with their twists of this is hard, don't get up and its not great news, pause, pause, pause, its fantastic news. Oh how sly of them. Lame.

that's what TiVO is for :).

I'm calling it now: an epic final between "Noop Dogg" Anoop Desai and the Blind Guy.

The first "top 12" should be fun. If two advance from the first top 12, I think it will be Anoop Desai and one of either David (the guy whose wife died shortly before the show started) or the oil rigger worker. If it's the top 3 of that group, that's it right there.

I think "America" will reject Tatiana, although the producers want her on for drama.

Agreed on the Blind Guy. I definitely see him the final 10

Not letting Jamar through is ridiculous, considering others that did make it. As usual I question the judges' judgment.

Ditto. We were howling last night after Jamar got dumped. Then, seeing some of the guys that made it afterwards didn't help.

Ditto. We were howling last night after Jamar got dumped. Then, seeing some of the guys that made it afterwards didn't help.

how much say do Paula, Randy and Kara really have? i assume Simon has a real "vote" since he's a producer as well, but aren't the others just talking meat sticks reciting scripts? i think this was never more clear than when Paula commented on BOTH of Jason Castro's songs last season after he had just finished up his first.

how much say do Paula, Randy and Kara really have? i assume Simon has a real "vote" since he's a producer as well, but aren't the others just talking meat sticks reciting scripts? i think this was never more clear than when Paula commented on BOTH of Jason Castro's songs last season after he had just finished up his first.

I think it takes all three of them to override his vote.

I think it takes all three of them to override his vote.

i'm actually saying that i think it's a scripted show for the most part...meaning, the 3 non-Simons are just doing as they're told and all the ACTUAL decisions are made by the producers. even America's "voting" is shady on AI since they have a disclaimer in the end credits that says something similar to "AI has the right to terminate the voting window at any time".

btw, there is no Santa or Easter Bunny either ;).

Did everyone (anyone?) notice Simon Cowell's big lie?

At the beginning of Hollywood Week, Simon said, "IF YOU FORGET THE WORDS, YOU ARE OUT."



'Yawn'. Simon says this every year. And every year, it proves to be an empty promise. There is always someone who forgot their words, that gets through. I think they emphasize it to keep people aware of the importance of remembering the lyrics. But it has never proven to be an absolute death nail. The overall talent of the person still trumps.

Ditto. We were howling last night after Jamar got dumped. Then, seeing some of the guys that made it afterwards didn't help.
Jamar was good and should have moved on. He has more talent and charisma than the guy who sounds like a girl when he sings and the "drama queen" guy.

So how does it work now? They are broken into 3 groups of 12 and what? Does each group sing each week and the next day 1 or 2 are kicked off?

Tatiana this years Sanjaya?

Curious, what was the initial title of this thread before it was changed?

So how does it work now? They are broken into 3 groups of 12 and what? Does each group sing each week and the next day 1 or 2 are kicked off?

Tatiana this years Sanjaya?

It looks that way, The schedule next Tuesday and Wednesday shows a one hour window.

Sanjaya was at least amusing, Tatiana is just plain annoying.....

Did everyone (anyone?) notice Simon Cowell's big lie?

At the beginning of Hollywood Week, Simon said, "IF YOU FORGET THE WORDS, YOU ARE OUT."

This has been the biggest joke of this season so far. It looked like forgetting the words actually helped some contestants make it through. How many? Three women and one man by my count.

And which guy started his song over again, then slammed his keyboard and frustration and walked off demonstrating lack of professionalism? Contestants were terrified when they found themselves in the same room with that guy.

Yep, that dude went through. He could have sung "twinkle twinkle... uh something something...<slam>" and made it through. :rolleyes:

Just as I realized where I know Jenn Korbee from (name didn't click right away since she was going by Jennifer Peterson-Hind on kids show HI-5), she gets sent home.

My wife said the same thing last night...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jennifer_Korbee

Nick/Norman will probably make it far due to his entertainment value. I mean, the judges constantly say, you can't be forgettable to have a shot in this competition. Nick/Norman is far from that. I'm sure if he keeps his funny bits going, then we'll be in for a treat. If not, there is another Vote for the Worst candidate right there.

Tatiana (aka annoying as piss) was a shock. How. Did. They. Let. Her. In!?! Ugh. She and drama queen emo boy need to go quick. They lead the charge for all things bad. You would think that AI has learned their lesson from last year's garbage (which I thought they did by the changes implemented this year), but NOOOOOO. Last night completely squashed that. Why are those people there? Drama. Nothing more. Nothing less. And I hope one of those rejects make it to the end to make a point that this show has run its course.

Agreed on the Blind Guy. I definitely see him the final 10

To steal a good joke from the Television Without Pity recap, he's so good even he can see himself in the final 10.

Nick/Norman will probably make it far due to his entertainment value. I mean, the judges constantly say, you can't be forgettable to have a shot in this competition. Nick/Norman is far from that. I'm sure if he keeps his funny bits going, then we'll be in for a treat. If not, there is another Vote for the Worst candidate right there.

Sanjaya was entertaining but here's the difference: Nick/Norman knows exactly why he's funny while Sanjaya had utterly no clue why people were laughing at him. His joke about Bikini Girl proved that he has a better grasp on how this show works than most contestants. He's lucky that Simon liked him since they normally don't allow contestants to make fun of the show, only of themselves.

One of the top 36 contestants announced yesterday has been let go from the show.

http://tv.yahoo.com/show/34934/news/urn:newsml:tv.tvguide.com:20090212:1002799__ER:1

Idol Semifinalist Deemed Ineligible for Competition
By Adam Bryant
Thu Feb 12, 7:03 AM PST


American Idol just named its Top 36 Wednesday, but you won't get to vote for one of them.

Joanna Pacitti, who has been hotly debated on Idol fansites because of her former record deal with A&M Records, has been booted from the competition, according to a Fox press release. "It has been determined that Joanna Pacitti is ineligible to continue in the competition," the statement read. No further explanation was offered.

In addition to chatter about Pacitti's previous recording career, the singer has also been rumored to have a close relationship with some of the executives of 19 Entertainment, the company that produces Idol.

In Pacitti's place will be Felicia Barton, who was seen being eliminated Wednesday. She wasn't heavily featured on the show, but her rendition of "Put Your Records On" during the Louisville, KY, audition round did create some buzz among fans.

One of the top 36 contestants announced yesterday has been let go from the show.

http://tv.yahoo.com/show/34934/news/urn:newsml:tv.tvguide.com:20090212:1002799__ER:1

Idol Semifinalist Deemed Ineligible for Competition
By Adam Bryant
Thu Feb 12, 7:03 AM PST

See above post # 213
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=15802115#post15802115

I know not everyone has music training but I thought several of the most questionable decisions complained about here made perfect sense.

Jamar has a weaker voice than many. That little soulful squeeze that so many like is appropriate at times but often can be used to hide a weaker voice. The difference between using it periodically and all the time is called style. Jamar uses it all the time because it is hiding a weaker voice. I don't mean weaker voice compared to all, but compared to the best, yes.

Tatiana is annoying as hell. I have no doubt about that and her drama queen status. However the clip they showed of her had her effortlessly singing a Whitney Houston song and her voice had no tuning problems, no weakness, it was amazingly strong.

Do you honestly think if you followed around Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Mariah Carey or Christina Aguilara around for a week with a camera you would see much different?

It is really clear that if there is something that the judges and especially Simon hate,(and it is clear he doesn't like Tatiana) it is a singer attempting a very hard signature song by a great singer. It has been repeated like a mantra, it invites comparisons and most of them to you will be bad since almost no one is a singer at the level.

If there were something embarassing about that, it would have been front and center. The problem is that it was great. I think she is going to blow some doors off when this becomes about singing instead of fake drama.

If they used that excuse for Pacitti, they'd have to remove Stephen Fowler, too. He was the guy that screwed up the words, restarted, screwed up the words again, and then walked off without finishing.

Yes, Stephen Fowler is also an example of how the "fix is in." Not saying it's all staged, but Simon either totally lied or the producers say "you can scare them all you want, but we'll pick who we pick, whether they remember words or not."

Agreed on the Blind Guy. I definitely see him the final 10

Why the hate with the lack of response regarding Anoop Desai? They didn't show him much in Hollywood, but he's a great talent.

Why the hate with the lack of response regarding Anoop Desai? They didn't show him much in Hollywood, but he's a great talent.

And he will prove it in the ongoing competition. I think they purposely leave out the more talented in the beginning so they will shine in the end.....

And he will prove it in the ongoing competition. I think they purposely leave out the more talented in the beginning so they will shine in the end.....

Maybe, but there is a fear that if "America" hasn't seen you enough during auditions/hollywood, they won't come out to vote for you, no matter how much the judges rave for you.

Next week I fear even if the judges fall all over Anoop, and others don't do so well, he will have a tough time coming out of that grp because the guy whose wife died and the oil rigger because people love the stories. And those are just the guys.

I love the blind guy too, but you have to think, nobody wants to be in a group with the blind guy because he might already be a HUGE fan favorite, so even if he chokes, he'll move on.

Curious, what was the initial title of this thread before it was changed?
I originally titled it "American Idol Season 8...Lift Every Voice And Sing!" I thought it would be a cute come-on to drive traffic to this thread; evidently, many folks did not. So, CPanther95 removed the latter part at my request.

I can't believe they dragged that out for 2 hours. If they just told the people it would take an hour at most.
My man, get yourself a DVR. I clicked through that thing in less than 40 minutes. When the performance weeks start, I'll go through two hours of AI in even less time than that.

My man, get yourself a DVR. I clicked through that thing in less than 40 minutes. When the performance weeks start, I'll go through two hours of AI in even less time than that.
And the results show takes single digit minutes.

Two reasons why Jackie Tohn could be a top 12 dark horse:

Performance from a Nov. 2006 festival:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7rAXsulXdBA

Her original compositon "A Little More Far:"

http://www.veoh.com/videos/v1507937w3EcGTry

So how does it work now? They are broken into 3 groups of 12 and what? Does each group sing each week and the next day 1 or 2 are kicked off?



I *think* the top three vote-getters from each group of 12 get through. And, then the judges get to pick three "wild cards" from the remaining 27.