Kieran, turn out the lights.
Our American Idol “journey” has come to an end, but let us not weep for what’s been cancelled, let us instead go to iTunes and download the Season 15 winner’s new single. Hey, from a songwriting vantage point, it may not be “Home,” but it definitely ranks above “No Boundaries” and “Inside Your Heaven” — and we bought those, too. And if this show can produce one more bona fide radio/touring superstar, maybe the inevitable reboot will happen sooner than expected, no?
RelatedFarewell for Now, American Idol, and Thanks for All the Memories...
Our American Idol “journey” has come to an end, but let us not weep for what’s been cancelled, let us instead go to iTunes and download the Season 15 winner’s new single. Hey, from a songwriting vantage point, it may not be “Home,” but it definitely ranks above “No Boundaries” and “Inside Your Heaven” — and we bought those, too. And if this show can produce one more bona fide radio/touring superstar, maybe the inevitable reboot will happen sooner than expected, no?
RelatedFarewell for Now, American Idol, and Thanks for All the Memories...
- 4/8/2016
- TVLine.com
Imagine an American Idol with Jennifer Lopez rocking a powder-blue Amish dress from the Pennsylvania Dutch Collection, Ryan Seacrest losing his cool and an audience of SwayBots successfully moving in time with the music.
None of those signs of an impending apocalypse occurred on tonight’s Season 14 Top 12 announcement/performance episode, but the hour was not without its share of whopping surprises.
RelatedAsk Ausiello: Spoilers on Empire‘s Season Finale and More!
The human equivalent of a frayed nerve, Joey Cook, pulled it together and became an unlikely front-runner — at least for a night. The usually flawless Sarina Joi-Crowe saw...
None of those signs of an impending apocalypse occurred on tonight’s Season 14 Top 12 announcement/performance episode, but the hour was not without its share of whopping surprises.
RelatedAsk Ausiello: Spoilers on Empire‘s Season Finale and More!
The human equivalent of a frayed nerve, Joey Cook, pulled it together and became an unlikely front-runner — at least for a night. The usually flawless Sarina Joi-Crowe saw...
- 3/12/2015
- TVLine.com
This was inevitable, but allow me to formalize a complaint about a growing issue of Idol‘s 13th season: Jennifer Lopez is clearly too nice. We’ve only seen Harry Connick Jr. and Keith Urban voice “no” votes after the others have said “yes.” When’s Jennifer Lopez going to reject a country balladeer who cares too much about Rascal Flatts? When’s Jennifer Lopez going to monologue about a loudmouth starlet who’s “not ready yet” after Keith has said yes? I need to see more of Jennifer’s pet peeves. I’d clap at the TV if Jennifer said, “Sorry, dear, I don’t do blue hair” to some punk poetess. Invalid comment? Maybe. But it’d solidify J-Lo as a singular presence on the panel. So far she’s sympathetic, earnest, and sometimes up for a laugh. She literally said to one underdog contestant, “There’s a blossom to be had here.
- 1/30/2014
- by Louis Virtel
- The Backlot
‘American Idol Live!’ 2012 touched down in Newark, N.J. on Tuesday night, and while the pacing of the show suffered more stops and starts than an octogenarian trying out a stick-shift for the first time, the Season 11 Top 10 nevertheless proved they have plenty of gas in their tanks as the tour enters its final two weeks.
Paired with the right material, a number of the finalists confirmed they can indeed command a stadium-sized crowd: Country gal Skylar Laine dropped charisma-bombs all the way to the cheap seats. Erika Van Pelt put on a display of vocal firepower that left me...
Paired with the right material, a number of the finalists confirmed they can indeed command a stadium-sized crowd: Country gal Skylar Laine dropped charisma-bombs all the way to the cheap seats. Erika Van Pelt put on a display of vocal firepower that left me...
- 8/29/2012
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
There’s this weird part of the week — from Friday morning till Monday evening — when not a single major TV network airs a reality singing competition. It’s terrible, I know, but it also gives me a lot of time to ponder American Idol history. (Everyone does this in their free time, yes?) And my latest flight of Idol fancy got me mulling this question: Was Season 11′s Top 10 the strongest — top to bottom — in show history? Let’s examine:
For starters, I’d automatically rule out the five seasons with three or more Top 10 contestants who probably wouldn’t have outlasted Season 11′s No.
For starters, I’d automatically rule out the five seasons with three or more Top 10 contestants who probably wouldn’t have outlasted Season 11′s No.
- 3/26/2012
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
We break down this year's remaining 'Idol' hopefuls, from Aaron Marcellus to Skylar Laine, and everyone in between.
By James Montgomery
Members of the "American Idol" Top 24
Photo: Fox
On Thursday, after approximately 4,256 hours of auditions, callbacks, comparisons, falsettos and fainting spells (not to mention the occasional bit of nudity and some stuff on a battleship), "American Idol" finally whittled the masses of dreamers down to the Top 24.
It was a ride, to say the very least, but at long last, we know the names and faces of the folks who will battle it out to become the heir to Scotty McCreery's crown. Of course, keeping track of all the hopefuls can get rather difficult (especially since so many of them are country singers), which is why we've once again taken it upon ourselves to break down each of them in handy-dandy bios. Because how else are...
By James Montgomery
Members of the "American Idol" Top 24
Photo: Fox
On Thursday, after approximately 4,256 hours of auditions, callbacks, comparisons, falsettos and fainting spells (not to mention the occasional bit of nudity and some stuff on a battleship), "American Idol" finally whittled the masses of dreamers down to the Top 24.
It was a ride, to say the very least, but at long last, we know the names and faces of the folks who will battle it out to become the heir to Scotty McCreery's crown. Of course, keeping track of all the hopefuls can get rather difficult (especially since so many of them are country singers), which is why we've once again taken it upon ourselves to break down each of them in handy-dandy bios. Because how else are...
- 2/24/2012
- MTV Music News
The news of Pia “I Got Voted Off ‘Idol’ Way Early And All I Got Was This Awesome Record Deal” Toscano joining Interscope’s roster surprised no one, except maybe my cat Moo Shu. (Homegirl’s a Voice fan. She thinks Idol is so seven years ago.) Toscano already shattered records by being the lowest-placing Idol also-ran to nab a significant major label deal in the show’s ten year history. (She was ninth! Ninth, I say!)
While we wait to see whether Pia becomes the next Jennifer Hudson or Kristy Lee Cook, let’s look back at the careers of previous ninth-place finishers to see how they’ve fared.
Season One: Jim Verraros
Jim was our inaugural “token sob story” contestant, and he parlayed his name recognition into movie roles in popular gay indie flicks. (Eating Out 2: Sloppy Seconds might be my fave sequel title since Electric Boogaloo.
While we wait to see whether Pia becomes the next Jennifer Hudson or Kristy Lee Cook, let’s look back at the careers of previous ninth-place finishers to see how they’ve fared.
Season One: Jim Verraros
Jim was our inaugural “token sob story” contestant, and he parlayed his name recognition into movie roles in popular gay indie flicks. (Eating Out 2: Sloppy Seconds might be my fave sequel title since Electric Boogaloo.
- 7/6/2011
- by Jim Cantiello
- MTV Newsroom
"American Idol" Season 10 has sparked a lot of romance rumors, probably more than any other season.
You had rumors of Stefano Langone having a crush on Pia Toscano and Haley Reinhart, who was rumored to be dating Casey Abrams. You also can't forget Scotty McCreery and Lauren Alaina, the teen golden couple.
We decided to look back at all ten seasons and single out the best couples -- romantic and bromantic -- and leave it up to you to decide which pairing is "Idol's" best. Go through our list, think long and hard and then vote in our poll -- "American Idol" "couple" edition:
Scotty McCreery and Lauren Alaina -- Season 10
The youngest final two ever sparked romance rumors after Lauren planted a few kisses on Scotty after he was crowned Season 10's winner. After the show, Lauren played coy, but Scotty said the two are just "really good friends.
You had rumors of Stefano Langone having a crush on Pia Toscano and Haley Reinhart, who was rumored to be dating Casey Abrams. You also can't forget Scotty McCreery and Lauren Alaina, the teen golden couple.
We decided to look back at all ten seasons and single out the best couples -- romantic and bromantic -- and leave it up to you to decide which pairing is "Idol's" best. Go through our list, think long and hard and then vote in our poll -- "American Idol" "couple" edition:
Scotty McCreery and Lauren Alaina -- Season 10
The youngest final two ever sparked romance rumors after Lauren planted a few kisses on Scotty after he was crowned Season 10's winner. After the show, Lauren played coy, but Scotty said the two are just "really good friends.
- 5/27/2011
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
Twelve shipwrecked guys are treading water amid a swarm of ravenous sharks, when suddenly, a luxury yacht pulls up alongside them. “Darling, your bathing suits are divine!” exclaims a glamorous actress, peering down from the deck. “Dude, your backstroke is bitchin’!” says the rock star alongside her. “Way to throw caution to the wind and do your thing, dawgs!” says their pal the music producer, sipping from a tall Coca-Cola glass. Welcome to the American Idol season 10 men’s semifinal — life boats not included!
Okay, okay, I’m probably sounding harsher than I’d intended. After all, of the dozen...
Okay, okay, I’m probably sounding harsher than I’d intended. After all, of the dozen...
- 3/2/2011
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
Wednesday night's (February 9) episode wrapped up the audition portion of "American Idol X: Let's Just Let Everybody Win This Year," and producers couldn't resist walloping viewers with a doozy of a back story one last time. And no, I'm not talking about the girl who apparently farted in front of the judges. (Kudos for not actually showing us that footage, "Idol.")
To say James Durbin hasn't overcome obstacles is like saying there aren’t enough "Idol" audition episodes. The 21-year-old's estranged dad died of an overdose back when James was a sleep-deprived wee lad, and now he's living with Tourette Syndrome and Asperger's and a wife who compulsively covers their tiny apartment with inspirational Post-It notes. (That last thing might be the most difficult to deal with, honestly.) Oh, and he has a baby who crawls around diaperless, leaving a trail of tears and baby droppings in his poverty-stricken wake.
To say James Durbin hasn't overcome obstacles is like saying there aren’t enough "Idol" audition episodes. The 21-year-old's estranged dad died of an overdose back when James was a sleep-deprived wee lad, and now he's living with Tourette Syndrome and Asperger's and a wife who compulsively covers their tiny apartment with inspirational Post-It notes. (That last thing might be the most difficult to deal with, honestly.) Oh, and he has a baby who crawls around diaperless, leaving a trail of tears and baby droppings in his poverty-stricken wake.
- 2/10/2011
- by Jim Cantiello
- MTV Newsroom
Police lights flash. Sirens blare. Medics rush toward the twisted wreckage of a totaled car. Firefighters sprint into a burning building. Colombian guerrillas wreak havoc in a small rural village. This…is American Idol? Yes, it is. Or rather, this…is American Idol…misguidedly dipping its toe into the reenactment business.
What the heck? Has Nigel Lythgoe been drawing inspiration from one too many Friday-night viewings of 48 Hours: Mystery (and its penchant for using low-rent stock footage to tell a tale)? Or is it merely the fact that, seven episodes in to the season 10 auditions, he’d try just about...
What the heck? Has Nigel Lythgoe been drawing inspiration from one too many Friday-night viewings of 48 Hours: Mystery (and its penchant for using low-rent stock footage to tell a tale)? Or is it merely the fact that, seven episodes in to the season 10 auditions, he’d try just about...
- 2/10/2011
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
"American Idol" is here and Zap2it has been taking a stroll down memory lane to re-evaluate the previous nine seasons.
We're breaking it down into four categories: Best Performance, Worst Performance, Most Underrated Idol and most Overrated Idol. At the end, we will decide how the season stacks up against the rest, rating it as great, good, or not-so-good.
We've looked back at Season 1 (yay Kelly!), Season 2 (aww, Clay and Ruben!), the black hole that was Season 3, one of our favorite Top 2 in Season 4, and Soul Patrol-ed Season 5. We took a look back at beatboxin' Season 6 and the David vs. David finale of Season 7.
Season 8 contestants in order of elimination:
Jasmine Murray
Jorge Nunez
Alexis Grace
Michael Sarver
Megan Joy
Scott MacIntyre
Lil Rounds
Anoop Desai
Matt Giraud
Allison Iraheta
Danny Gokey
Adam Lambert
Kris Allen (winner)
Best performance: Don't make us choose!
There are too many from this season.
We're breaking it down into four categories: Best Performance, Worst Performance, Most Underrated Idol and most Overrated Idol. At the end, we will decide how the season stacks up against the rest, rating it as great, good, or not-so-good.
We've looked back at Season 1 (yay Kelly!), Season 2 (aww, Clay and Ruben!), the black hole that was Season 3, one of our favorite Top 2 in Season 4, and Soul Patrol-ed Season 5. We took a look back at beatboxin' Season 6 and the David vs. David finale of Season 7.
Season 8 contestants in order of elimination:
Jasmine Murray
Jorge Nunez
Alexis Grace
Michael Sarver
Megan Joy
Scott MacIntyre
Lil Rounds
Anoop Desai
Matt Giraud
Allison Iraheta
Danny Gokey
Adam Lambert
Kris Allen (winner)
Best performance: Don't make us choose!
There are too many from this season.
- 1/20/2011
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
'Idol' alumni Michael Lynche, Megan Joy and Justin Guarini show up for judge's penultimate show.
By Kelley L. Carter
Crystal Bowersox performs on "American Idol" on Tuesday
Photo: Michael Becker/ Fox
Los Angeles — The party got started long before the final "American Idol" performance show kicked off. "Idol" contestants from seasons past were right at home and accepted cheers and catcalling from the 7,000 fans inside the Nokia Theatre.
About an hour before the show started, season-one runner-up Justin Guarini held court. The curly-haired singer was outside near the talent check-in, taking cell phone shots with fans, shaking hands and laughing with friends he called out to.
Scott MacIntyre, the blind piano-playing contestant from season eight, was taken aback when the crowd whistled and applauded his arrival. Megan Joy — who got rid of the long, lush locks we remember from the same season — ran her fingers through her cropped...
By Kelley L. Carter
Crystal Bowersox performs on "American Idol" on Tuesday
Photo: Michael Becker/ Fox
Los Angeles — The party got started long before the final "American Idol" performance show kicked off. "Idol" contestants from seasons past were right at home and accepted cheers and catcalling from the 7,000 fans inside the Nokia Theatre.
About an hour before the show started, season-one runner-up Justin Guarini held court. The curly-haired singer was outside near the talent check-in, taking cell phone shots with fans, shaking hands and laughing with friends he called out to.
Scott MacIntyre, the blind piano-playing contestant from season eight, was taken aback when the crowd whistled and applauded his arrival. Megan Joy — who got rid of the long, lush locks we remember from the same season — ran her fingers through her cropped...
- 5/25/2010
- MTV Music News
Look back at the highlights from Crystal Bowersox, Katelyn Epperly, Lee DeWyze, Alex Lambert and more.
By Jim Cantiello
Crystal Bowersox performs "Me and Bobby McGee" on "American Idol"
Photo: Ray Mickshaw / Fox
The ninth season of "American Idol" has taken a wallop from critics and fans for lacking the water-cooler chatter and overall talent of previous seasons. Yet despite the negative buzz, there were still a handful of performances worth celebrating among all those "do not wants."
So, as we gear up for Tuesday's (May 25) final performance night, sit back and grab your brain's TiVo remote as we quickly rewind season nine and revisit 10 of our favorite performances this year.
10. Andrew Garcia, "Straight Up": Kara called Garcia's soulful acoustic flip on Paula Abdul's tune during Hollywood Week "genius," and in some ways, she was right. It respected the show's history while introducing a new element to the...
By Jim Cantiello
Crystal Bowersox performs "Me and Bobby McGee" on "American Idol"
Photo: Ray Mickshaw / Fox
The ninth season of "American Idol" has taken a wallop from critics and fans for lacking the water-cooler chatter and overall talent of previous seasons. Yet despite the negative buzz, there were still a handful of performances worth celebrating among all those "do not wants."
So, as we gear up for Tuesday's (May 25) final performance night, sit back and grab your brain's TiVo remote as we quickly rewind season nine and revisit 10 of our favorite performances this year.
10. Andrew Garcia, "Straight Up": Kara called Garcia's soulful acoustic flip on Paula Abdul's tune during Hollywood Week "genius," and in some ways, she was right. It respected the show's history while introducing a new element to the...
- 5/25/2010
- MTV Music News
Friends or Bf and Gf? The way Lee DeWyze reacted when Siobhan Magnus got voted off Idol last night was touching — as was the way she took comfort in his arms!
I was shocked that Siobhan Magnus was sent packing from American Idol April 28 for her rendition of Shania Twain’s “Any Man of Mine” (the audience seemed to think Big Mike Lynche was going home and I personally wanted Aaron Kelly gone a long time ago) — but I wasn’t half as dismayed as the judges’ golden boy Lee DeWyze. The dude was so unhappy that he looked like he was going to cry…but what else is new?
Big Mike, Siobhan and my rocker hottie Casey James were all in the bottom three, but when Mikey boy was saved, Lee started to get nervous. The 24-year-old Mount Prospect, Illinois native paced the stage until he was forced to...
I was shocked that Siobhan Magnus was sent packing from American Idol April 28 for her rendition of Shania Twain’s “Any Man of Mine” (the audience seemed to think Big Mike Lynche was going home and I personally wanted Aaron Kelly gone a long time ago) — but I wasn’t half as dismayed as the judges’ golden boy Lee DeWyze. The dude was so unhappy that he looked like he was going to cry…but what else is new?
Big Mike, Siobhan and my rocker hottie Casey James were all in the bottom three, but when Mikey boy was saved, Lee started to get nervous. The 24-year-old Mount Prospect, Illinois native paced the stage until he was forced to...
- 4/29/2010
- by Laura Schreffler
- HollywoodLife
As part of the ramp-up to "Idol Gives Back," past "American Idol" contestants are volunteering at food banks around the country.
One of the charities receiving the "Idol Gives Back" aid is Feeding America and in addition to donating money, the past Idols are helping with the Feeding America backpack program.
The idea is that children have food during the week when they are in school, but once the weekend comes around, they might be going hungry. These backpacks are filled with nutritious things like apple juice, tuna, milk, mashed potatoes and spaghetti and meatballs. The kids can pick up the backpacks on Fridays and return them on Mondays, then pick them up again the following Friday and so on. Also included in the backpacks are informational packets about nutritional food.
The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank welcomed Kimberley Locke, Didi Benami, David Hernandez, Amy Adams, Chikezie Eze, Mikalah Gordon,...
One of the charities receiving the "Idol Gives Back" aid is Feeding America and in addition to donating money, the past Idols are helping with the Feeding America backpack program.
The idea is that children have food during the week when they are in school, but once the weekend comes around, they might be going hungry. These backpacks are filled with nutritious things like apple juice, tuna, milk, mashed potatoes and spaghetti and meatballs. The kids can pick up the backpacks on Fridays and return them on Mondays, then pick them up again the following Friday and so on. Also included in the backpacks are informational packets about nutritional food.
The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank welcomed Kimberley Locke, Didi Benami, David Hernandez, Amy Adams, Chikezie Eze, Mikalah Gordon,...
- 4/14/2010
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
“I don’t get the song choices tonight. I really don’t.” – Ellen Degeneres Your Aunt Whittlz took her first steps into Idoldome Oh-Ten this afternoon with what could tentatively be termed optimism, PopWatchers. I have learned my lesson after yea these many years of writing blogs on this here website: You commenters can be tough, but you are never more cutting than when the author expresses a certain weary disdain for the subject at hand. New Season, New Attitude! was my Tlc-reality-show-style motto today, fueled by the gorgeous L.A. weather and a meeting we had with the...
- 3/24/2010
- by Whitney Pastorek
- EW.com - PopWatch
Almost a year after the Kris Allen coronation ceremony that shattered devoted Glamberts and Lamb Skanks across our sparkly nation, we've reached the point where seven American Idol contestants from season nine's Top 10 have released singles. We're still waiting for entries from Lil Rounds, Matt Giraud (of the popular Twitter hashtag #SignMattGiraud) and Megan Joy Corkrey (whose Myspace singles don't seem finalized yet) to follow suit. In the meantime, let's rank what we've heard and figure out the whole "Who was the real winner?" thing.
- 3/23/2010
- Movieline - TVline
Annop Desai made it to the seventh week on last year’s American Idol and the 23 year old is now preparing to release his debut album.
The record titled “All is Fair” will hit the shelves on May 4 and the song above “My Name” will be his first single.
“It’s a pop record, but definitely influenced by a Bollywood feel,” Desai told People.
“‘My Name’ has a double meaning. On one hand, it’s a response to kids that used to make fun of my name when I was little. I wanted my first contribution to be something that said, ‘Hey, my name is now cool, not something to be ashamed of.’”
“It’s also about false bravado. Each song on the All is Fair album describes a mindset or a time in my life. ‘My Name’ is about going to a club and trying to act like a big deal.
The record titled “All is Fair” will hit the shelves on May 4 and the song above “My Name” will be his first single.
“It’s a pop record, but definitely influenced by a Bollywood feel,” Desai told People.
“‘My Name’ has a double meaning. On one hand, it’s a response to kids that used to make fun of my name when I was little. I wanted my first contribution to be something that said, ‘Hey, my name is now cool, not something to be ashamed of.’”
“It’s also about false bravado. Each song on the All is Fair album describes a mindset or a time in my life. ‘My Name’ is about going to a club and trying to act like a big deal.
- 3/22/2010
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
'Even though I'm a bubbly, happy person, not every song that I sing is gonna be uptempo,' she says.
By Katie Byrne
Lacey Brown
Photo: Fox
Lacey Brown had an "American Idol" Cinderella story. In season eight, she just missed the cut for the top 36 when the judges opted for another quirky singer, Megan Joy, instead. Well, this was her year. Not only did she get past Hollywood Week to the top 24, she even made it to the top 12 and the big stage.
Unfortunately, her performance of the Rolling Stones' "Ruby Tuesday" didn't cut it, and she was the first finalist to get the boot.
We caught up with the 24-year-old Texan on Thursday (March 18) to talk about why she decided to try out again this year, the judges' conflicting advice and what's next.
Q: The judges have been offering a lot of conflicting advice this season. Do you...
By Katie Byrne
Lacey Brown
Photo: Fox
Lacey Brown had an "American Idol" Cinderella story. In season eight, she just missed the cut for the top 36 when the judges opted for another quirky singer, Megan Joy, instead. Well, this was her year. Not only did she get past Hollywood Week to the top 24, she even made it to the top 12 and the big stage.
Unfortunately, her performance of the Rolling Stones' "Ruby Tuesday" didn't cut it, and she was the first finalist to get the boot.
We caught up with the 24-year-old Texan on Thursday (March 18) to talk about why she decided to try out again this year, the judges' conflicting advice and what's next.
Q: The judges have been offering a lot of conflicting advice this season. Do you...
- 3/18/2010
- MTV Music News
'American Idol' Top 12 cheat sheet looks at Brown's strengths and weaknesses.
By Jim Cantiello
Lacey Brown at the "American Idol" top 12 party
Photo: Jesse Grant/ WireImage
On Thursday night, "American Idol" revealed its Top 12 Finalists for the ninth season of the hit show. MTV News "Idol" expert Jim Cantiello whipped up a handy cheat sheet for each finalist, breaking down each candidate's journey thus far. He also got the "Idol" hopefuls to weigh in when he caught up with them at Thursday night's Top 12 Party in Hollywood.
Lacey Brown
With her fiery red hair, icy cool blue eyes and a flair for animal prints, "American Idol" contestant Lacey Brown stands out in a lineup. And when she opens her mouth, Lacey gets even more interesting. In a 90-second performance, Brown's high-pitched tone can recall everyone from Patsy Cline to Gwen Stefani to Cyndi Lauper.
Best Performance: Lacey's recent...
By Jim Cantiello
Lacey Brown at the "American Idol" top 12 party
Photo: Jesse Grant/ WireImage
On Thursday night, "American Idol" revealed its Top 12 Finalists for the ninth season of the hit show. MTV News "Idol" expert Jim Cantiello whipped up a handy cheat sheet for each finalist, breaking down each candidate's journey thus far. He also got the "Idol" hopefuls to weigh in when he caught up with them at Thursday night's Top 12 Party in Hollywood.
Lacey Brown
With her fiery red hair, icy cool blue eyes and a flair for animal prints, "American Idol" contestant Lacey Brown stands out in a lineup. And when she opens her mouth, Lacey gets even more interesting. In a 90-second performance, Brown's high-pitched tone can recall everyone from Patsy Cline to Gwen Stefani to Cyndi Lauper.
Best Performance: Lacey's recent...
- 3/12/2010
- MTV Music News
With Lilly Scott, Alex Lambert and Katelyn Epperly sent home, season nine lost three of its most interesting contestants.
By Eric Ditzian
Lilly Scott
Photo: Fox
After an embarrassingly shaky start to the "American Idol" live shows late last month, many of the hopefuls — from Crystal Bowersox to Casey James to Lilly Scott — recovered to the point where we were no longer ready to declare season nine the worst in the show's history.
And then came Thursday night's results show. Standouts Scott, Alex Lambert and Katelyn Epperly were sent home, while sooo-not-ready-for-prime-time crooners Katie Stevens, Paige Miles and Tim Urban made the cut. That sound you hear? America erasing their DVR season passes of "Idol." Which raises the question: Is this season's newly announced top 12 the weakest we've ever seen?
Last season, which actually presented a top 13, gave us singers that were as talented as any we'd ever seen on "Idol" — Adam Lambert,...
By Eric Ditzian
Lilly Scott
Photo: Fox
After an embarrassingly shaky start to the "American Idol" live shows late last month, many of the hopefuls — from Crystal Bowersox to Casey James to Lilly Scott — recovered to the point where we were no longer ready to declare season nine the worst in the show's history.
And then came Thursday night's results show. Standouts Scott, Alex Lambert and Katelyn Epperly were sent home, while sooo-not-ready-for-prime-time crooners Katie Stevens, Paige Miles and Tim Urban made the cut. That sound you hear? America erasing their DVR season passes of "Idol." Which raises the question: Is this season's newly announced top 12 the weakest we've ever seen?
Last season, which actually presented a top 13, gave us singers that were as talented as any we'd ever seen on "Idol" — Adam Lambert,...
- 3/12/2010
- MTV Music News
Call of the search party! Blow out the candles! Crystal Bowersox (aka The Savior of Season Nine aka The Best Idol Contestant Who Ever Graced The Stage aka The Reason God Created Harmonicas) is still on "American Idol!"
I don't intend for my hyperbole to make light of Crystal's serious hospitalization. But in hindsight, knowing that our girl is a tough cookie who's here to stay, our collective overreaction is kind of hilarious, don't you think?
But how did Crystal Bowersox do? Let's take a look at her — and her competitors' — performance. This ... is "American Idol" recap!
Crystal Bowersox
Song: "As Long as I Can See the Light" by Creedence Clearwater Revival
Verdict: A Healthy Return to Her Throne
All the Idols were forced to share little nuggets about themselves. I can only imagine the dark secrets this reality show newbie revealed to producers before they told her they just...
I don't intend for my hyperbole to make light of Crystal's serious hospitalization. But in hindsight, knowing that our girl is a tough cookie who's here to stay, our collective overreaction is kind of hilarious, don't you think?
But how did Crystal Bowersox do? Let's take a look at her — and her competitors' — performance. This ... is "American Idol" recap!
Crystal Bowersox
Song: "As Long as I Can See the Light" by Creedence Clearwater Revival
Verdict: A Healthy Return to Her Throne
All the Idols were forced to share little nuggets about themselves. I can only imagine the dark secrets this reality show newbie revealed to producers before they told her they just...
- 3/4/2010
- by Jim Cantiello
- MTV Newsroom
I’d like to open Tuesday night's (March 2) "American Idol" recap with a short excerpt of a screenplay I'm working on, which is loosely based on what I think might have happened backstage Tuesday. It's called "Bower Power."
Int. CBS Studios, backstage.
The Top 10 men are hanging out. A producer enters with purpose.
Producer: Crystal Bowersox is really sick. Doctors say she can't perform on "Idol" tonight. So you boys are going to sing in her place since we're willing to sacrifice all of you in order to save one of the season's breakout stars. Get into wardrobe, you pitiful excuses for "Idol" contestants. You're live in three hours.
Alex Lambert: [vomits, weeps, craps pants simultaneously.]
Tim Urban: It's okay, Alex. Just pray. That's what I do.
Jermaine Sellers: [puts down his vocal humidifier] Yeah! Jesus is my homeboy!
Cut to Heaven.
Jesus: [shakes head, sighs] I miss season eight.
Jesus presses play on his iPod, listens to Danny Gokey...
Int. CBS Studios, backstage.
The Top 10 men are hanging out. A producer enters with purpose.
Producer: Crystal Bowersox is really sick. Doctors say she can't perform on "Idol" tonight. So you boys are going to sing in her place since we're willing to sacrifice all of you in order to save one of the season's breakout stars. Get into wardrobe, you pitiful excuses for "Idol" contestants. You're live in three hours.
Alex Lambert: [vomits, weeps, craps pants simultaneously.]
Tim Urban: It's okay, Alex. Just pray. That's what I do.
Jermaine Sellers: [puts down his vocal humidifier] Yeah! Jesus is my homeboy!
Cut to Heaven.
Jesus: [shakes head, sighs] I miss season eight.
Jesus presses play on his iPod, listens to Danny Gokey...
- 3/3/2010
- by Jim Cantiello
- MTV Newsroom
David Cook, Megan Joy and Christina Christian also had health issues during their seasons.
By Gil Kaufman
Crystal Bowersox
Photo: Frank Micelotta/ Getty Images
The pressure on "American Idol" is intense. Singers spend their weeks picking songs, learning them, rehearsing group numbers, doing press and otherwise living in the intense bubble that is the "Idol" universe.
So it's not surprising that sometimes, that strain can get to the contestants, most of whom are performing in front of audiences and cameras for the first time in their lives. The latest singer to go down is Crystal Bowersox, the 24-year-old Ohio busker and mother of one who was hospitalized Tuesday and ordered by doctors not to perform as scheduled on that night's show. That led to a rare lineup shuffle, forcing the men to perform Tuesday night as Bowersox rested up for Wednesday night's (March 3) show.
"Due to medical issues which would...
By Gil Kaufman
Crystal Bowersox
Photo: Frank Micelotta/ Getty Images
The pressure on "American Idol" is intense. Singers spend their weeks picking songs, learning them, rehearsing group numbers, doing press and otherwise living in the intense bubble that is the "Idol" universe.
So it's not surprising that sometimes, that strain can get to the contestants, most of whom are performing in front of audiences and cameras for the first time in their lives. The latest singer to go down is Crystal Bowersox, the 24-year-old Ohio busker and mother of one who was hospitalized Tuesday and ordered by doctors not to perform as scheduled on that night's show. That led to a rare lineup shuffle, forcing the men to perform Tuesday night as Bowersox rested up for Wednesday night's (March 3) show.
"Due to medical issues which would...
- 3/3/2010
- MTV Music News
We have some advice for Katelyn Epperly, Didi Benami and the rest of the ladies.
By Gil Kaufman
"American Idol" top ten females
Photo: Fox
By many accounts, it was a rough first week for the top 24 on "American Idol" last week. And while the guys had it a bit tougher than the girls when it came to harsh comments from the judges, it's not like the ladies got off scot-free.
From multiple slags about wrong song choices to the usual litany of complaints about young singers acting too old and pitchy performances, Simon, Ellen, Kara and Randy gave the dozen female contenders plenty to think about. The remaining 10 women got a rare one-day reprieve on Tuesday when leading contender Crystal Bowersox fell ill and caused a one-time-only switcheroo, forcing the boys to perform a day earlier than scheduled. At press time, there was no update on Bowersox's condition.
So...
By Gil Kaufman
"American Idol" top ten females
Photo: Fox
By many accounts, it was a rough first week for the top 24 on "American Idol" last week. And while the guys had it a bit tougher than the girls when it came to harsh comments from the judges, it's not like the ladies got off scot-free.
From multiple slags about wrong song choices to the usual litany of complaints about young singers acting too old and pitchy performances, Simon, Ellen, Kara and Randy gave the dozen female contenders plenty to think about. The remaining 10 women got a rare one-day reprieve on Tuesday when leading contender Crystal Bowersox fell ill and caused a one-time-only switcheroo, forcing the boys to perform a day earlier than scheduled. At press time, there was no update on Bowersox's condition.
So...
- 3/3/2010
- MTV Music News
New York Times finds that Kris Allen has banked $650,000 since winning last year.
By Gil Kaufman
Kris Allen wins "American Idol" season 8
Photo: Kevin Winter/ Getty Images
Note to this year's "American Idol" top 24 contestants: Winning is great, but even if you don't make it to May, you could bank some serious cash by just making it to the top five. That's according to a New York Times story published on Wednesday (February 24) that dissects the closely held "Idol" contract. The document proves that taking the top prize on the show is plenty lucrative, but even top 10 finishers can earn a very decent wage.
According to the story, last year's winner, Kris Allen, has earned at least $650,000 from his "Idol" contract, despite releasing a debut album that has struggled on the charts and sold the lowest total (265,000 so far) for an "Idol" champ to date. That's the minimum a winner could earn.
By Gil Kaufman
Kris Allen wins "American Idol" season 8
Photo: Kevin Winter/ Getty Images
Note to this year's "American Idol" top 24 contestants: Winning is great, but even if you don't make it to May, you could bank some serious cash by just making it to the top five. That's according to a New York Times story published on Wednesday (February 24) that dissects the closely held "Idol" contract. The document proves that taking the top prize on the show is plenty lucrative, but even top 10 finishers can earn a very decent wage.
According to the story, last year's winner, Kris Allen, has earned at least $650,000 from his "Idol" contract, despite releasing a debut album that has struggled on the charts and sold the lowest total (265,000 so far) for an "Idol" champ to date. That's the minimum a winner could earn.
- 2/24/2010
- MTV Music News
Janell Wheeler and Crystal Bowersox have an edge, while Michelle Belamor and Paige Miles need to make up for a lack of screen time.
By Eric Ditzian
Janell Wheeler
Photo: Fox
And now, the show finally begins. "American Idol" has bid farewell to dudes in bikinis and chicks with whips, to rocker moms and warring groups of singers caught in bad romances. This week brings the start of the semifinals, when the manufactured reality-show drama gives way to 24 singers taking their turn alone on the stage in the hope they'll live to sing another week on TV.
On Tuesday night (February 23), the women kick off this next phase of "Idol" season nine. Who's sure to be voted through and who might be going home? Let's take a look at how these 12 ladies stack up.
Ashley Rodriguez
This 22-year-old Berklee College of Music student is perhaps the most polished of all the female contestants,...
By Eric Ditzian
Janell Wheeler
Photo: Fox
And now, the show finally begins. "American Idol" has bid farewell to dudes in bikinis and chicks with whips, to rocker moms and warring groups of singers caught in bad romances. This week brings the start of the semifinals, when the manufactured reality-show drama gives way to 24 singers taking their turn alone on the stage in the hope they'll live to sing another week on TV.
On Tuesday night (February 23), the women kick off this next phase of "Idol" season nine. Who's sure to be voted through and who might be going home? Let's take a look at how these 12 ladies stack up.
Ashley Rodriguez
This 22-year-old Berklee College of Music student is perhaps the most polished of all the female contestants,...
- 2/23/2010
- MTV Music News
The top 24 has finally been revealed! Drop us a comment and let us know who you want to win this season.
Take a good hard look at that photo. One of those 24 people will be the next American Idol — isn’t that crazy? After weeks of watching all those painstaking auditions, the semifinalists have finally been chosen and the first live performance is coming up on Tuesday, Feb. 23. But before you get those texting fingers ready, take a look at the 12 guys and 12 girls you’ll be able to vote for. We’ve gone ahead and put pink stars next to the frontrunners, but let us know who You’ll be rooting for when the live shows start next week.
. The Girls Didi Benami: Didi, 22, dedicates her American Idol journey to her friend who recently passed away. Crystal Bowersox: Nicknamed “Mama Sox,” 19-year-old Crystal gets her inspiration from her one-year-old baby boy.
Take a good hard look at that photo. One of those 24 people will be the next American Idol — isn’t that crazy? After weeks of watching all those painstaking auditions, the semifinalists have finally been chosen and the first live performance is coming up on Tuesday, Feb. 23. But before you get those texting fingers ready, take a look at the 12 guys and 12 girls you’ll be able to vote for. We’ve gone ahead and put pink stars next to the frontrunners, but let us know who You’ll be rooting for when the live shows start next week.
. The Girls Didi Benami: Didi, 22, dedicates her American Idol journey to her friend who recently passed away. Crystal Bowersox: Nicknamed “Mama Sox,” 19-year-old Crystal gets her inspiration from her one-year-old baby boy.
- 2/18/2010
- by Andy Swift
- HollywoodLife
I'd like to start this "American Idol" recap with a new game that I like to call "Porn Dialogue or 'Idol' Conversation?"
Man: Fancy seeing you here.
Woman: I like that word fancy. Fancy. You're very '70s. I like that about you. What is it with the '70s and you?
Man: All my idols are from the '60s and '70s. You know, Robert Plant, Roger Daltry, Morrison.
Woman: Did you get some of your moves from them? Where do you get those moves?
Man: I actually have a lot of rock DVDs and I watch a lot of old concerts.
Woman: Do you think you'll bring some of those moves if you stay?
Man: Whatever kind of moves you want, I'll give you.
Woman: Really? I think we wanna see those moves again, and you're gonna go through.
That was an exchange between Kara DioGuardi...
Man: Fancy seeing you here.
Woman: I like that word fancy. Fancy. You're very '70s. I like that about you. What is it with the '70s and you?
Man: All my idols are from the '60s and '70s. You know, Robert Plant, Roger Daltry, Morrison.
Woman: Did you get some of your moves from them? Where do you get those moves?
Man: I actually have a lot of rock DVDs and I watch a lot of old concerts.
Woman: Do you think you'll bring some of those moves if you stay?
Man: Whatever kind of moves you want, I'll give you.
Woman: Really? I think we wanna see those moves again, and you're gonna go through.
That was an exchange between Kara DioGuardi...
- 2/18/2010
- by Jim Cantiello
- MTV Newsroom
Andrew Garcia, Katie Stevens, Janell Wheeler, John Park and other early front-runners make the cut.
By Katie Byrne
Janell Wheeler on "American Idol" Wednesday
Photo: Fox
In an "American Idol" first, seven contenders for the season-nine top 24 were revealed during Tuesday's show. On Wednesday (February 17), the 17 remaining semifinalists were unveiled. Now, you can reacquaint yourself with those singers before next week's live shows kick off:
Andrew Garcia
While Garcia's story about his parents' gangbanger past and trying to make a better life for his kid earned him some audition-round screen time, his Hollywood Week performances are what set him apart from the pack. His acoustic reworkings of female-fronted songs — Paula Abdul's "Straight Up" and Adele's "Chasing Pavements" — earned him a ride to the top 24.
Katie Stevens
The precocious 16-year-old caught our attention with her old-soul vocal chops and compelling backstory. She backed up the positive first impression with Stevie Wonder...
By Katie Byrne
Janell Wheeler on "American Idol" Wednesday
Photo: Fox
In an "American Idol" first, seven contenders for the season-nine top 24 were revealed during Tuesday's show. On Wednesday (February 17), the 17 remaining semifinalists were unveiled. Now, you can reacquaint yourself with those singers before next week's live shows kick off:
Andrew Garcia
While Garcia's story about his parents' gangbanger past and trying to make a better life for his kid earned him some audition-round screen time, his Hollywood Week performances are what set him apart from the pack. His acoustic reworkings of female-fronted songs — Paula Abdul's "Straight Up" and Adele's "Chasing Pavements" — earned him a ride to the top 24.
Katie Stevens
The precocious 16-year-old caught our attention with her old-soul vocal chops and compelling backstory. She backed up the positive first impression with Stevie Wonder...
- 2/17/2010
- MTV Music News
Tonight, American Idol will begin revealing its season 9 semifinalists as part of a two-night extravaganza of singing, stressing, and sobbing. But while I'm celebrating the fact that I only need to avoid all those hideously tempting "top 24 spoiler lists" for another 30 hours or so, I figured I'd do one final ranking of the contestants who've been singing their hearts out for our entertainment over the last five weeks. After you've finished reading, vote for your own pet contestant, then hit the comments section to share your reasons why. (Oh, and now that the voting portion of the competition is almost upon us,...
- 2/16/2010
- by Michael Slezak
- EW.com - PopWatch
Hollywood Week begins tonight on American Idol, and over the next two weeks, we'll see 181 Golden Ticket recipients whittled down to 24 semifinalists. There'll be tears. There'll be fights. There'll be Ellen DeGeneres in the Paula Abdul Memorial Chair! But before we get there, I'm going to count down the top 20 contestants from the last four weeks of auditions, and then ask you to vote for your fave in the handy poll that's embedded after the jump. Just Fyi, I had to leave off karaoke hostess Danelle Hayes, who reportedly ended up not going to Hollywood, and I took the liberty...
- 2/9/2010
- by Michael Slezak
- EW.com - PopWatch
Alums Megan Joy and Nikki McKibbin note the many benefits 'Idol' stardom offers young moms and dads.
By Gil Kaufman
Megan Joy
Photo: Jean Baptiste Lacroix/ Wireimage
This year's "American Idol" audition rounds presented a veritable baby boom of young parents aiming for their shot at stardom, often with a newborn or adorable moppet on their hip or clutching too-cute-for-words crayon pictures for the judges.
From the hyper-focused Andrew Garcia, himself the son of former Los Angeles gangbangers, who is in search of a better life for his own young boy, to hulking personal trainer and expectant father Michael Lynche, who might have already washed out because his father allegedly blabbed about his Hollywood experience to a local Florida paper, moms and dads were featured in nearly every audition episode for season nine.
There was scratchy-voiced rocker girl Danelle Hayes, who wanted to make it on "Idol" so...
By Gil Kaufman
Megan Joy
Photo: Jean Baptiste Lacroix/ Wireimage
This year's "American Idol" audition rounds presented a veritable baby boom of young parents aiming for their shot at stardom, often with a newborn or adorable moppet on their hip or clutching too-cute-for-words crayon pictures for the judges.
From the hyper-focused Andrew Garcia, himself the son of former Los Angeles gangbangers, who is in search of a better life for his own young boy, to hulking personal trainer and expectant father Michael Lynche, who might have already washed out because his father allegedly blabbed about his Hollywood experience to a local Florida paper, moms and dads were featured in nearly every audition episode for season nine.
There was scratchy-voiced rocker girl Danelle Hayes, who wanted to make it on "Idol" so...
- 2/9/2010
- MTV Music News
The last night of audition rounds for this season of American Idol aired last night and, thankfully, the episode highlighted more good auditions than sob stories and weirdoes. Last night's episode contained auditions from the numerous cities where Idol set up its judgmental camp on the quest to find the next American idol. One of the good singers whose audition hadn't previously aired was Lacy Brown. Last season, Brown made it all the way through the Hollywood rounds, until the round where the top 24 were chosen. She was called in to face the judges alongside Megan Joy, who best her out for a spot in the top 24. Remember M ...
- 2/4/2010
- by By Actress Archives
On Wednesday night, the endless parade of costumed wannabes and ham-fisted sob stories came to an end as "American Idol" aired its final audition episode of the season. By my count, season nine has yielded two divorces, 26 foster families, two syndromes (Tourette's and Downs), one Alzheimer's, two cancer survivors, one Austistic child, one paralyzed face and a reformed bank robber, yet only one true breakout star: "Pants on the Ground" sensation General Larry Platt. And that dude isn't even eligible for the competition!
Gee, "Idol" producers, you think it's time to revamp these audition episodes?
Thankfully, Wednesday night's final helping — a hodgepodge of leftover tryouts from every city they visited — was packed with talented singers, some of whom I could even imagine at the Kodak Theater, singing a song about obstacles, fortitude and earthquakes.
My favorite was redhead crooner Lacey Brown, who made "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" sound like I...
Gee, "Idol" producers, you think it's time to revamp these audition episodes?
Thankfully, Wednesday night's final helping — a hodgepodge of leftover tryouts from every city they visited — was packed with talented singers, some of whom I could even imagine at the Kodak Theater, singing a song about obstacles, fortitude and earthquakes.
My favorite was redhead crooner Lacey Brown, who made "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" sound like I...
- 2/4/2010
- by Jim Cantiello
- MTV Newsroom
Before we move on to Hollywood Week, here's a look back at season nine's best and wackiest hopefuls so far.
By James Montgomery
Katelyn Epperly
Photo: Fox
Thousands of hopefuls. Hundreds of songs. Seven cities. Four excruciating weeks. A dude in a two-piece bikini. One pair of pants on the ground. On Wednesday, "American Idol" wrapped up the auditions for its ninth season, and judging by the numbers — or, really, any other quantifier — it was a pretty interesting ride.
From the news that Simon Cowell would be leaving the show at season's end, to the spate of celebrity judges lined up by show producers (Neil Patrick Harris, we love you), "Idol" generated more than a few headlines, and in the auditioners rolled out for our viewing, uncovered some genuine diamonds in the rough.
Of course, producers also shined a spotlight on some lumps of coal too (we're looking at you,...
By James Montgomery
Katelyn Epperly
Photo: Fox
Thousands of hopefuls. Hundreds of songs. Seven cities. Four excruciating weeks. A dude in a two-piece bikini. One pair of pants on the ground. On Wednesday, "American Idol" wrapped up the auditions for its ninth season, and judging by the numbers — or, really, any other quantifier — it was a pretty interesting ride.
From the news that Simon Cowell would be leaving the show at season's end, to the spate of celebrity judges lined up by show producers (Neil Patrick Harris, we love you), "Idol" generated more than a few headlines, and in the auditioners rolled out for our viewing, uncovered some genuine diamonds in the rough.
Of course, producers also shined a spotlight on some lumps of coal too (we're looking at you,...
- 2/4/2010
- MTV Music News
The audition phase wraps up as the show prepares to head to Hollywood.
By Gil Kaufman
Michael Lynche on Wednesday's episode of "American Idol"
Photo: Fox
To the relief of anyone who's a true fan, Wednesday night's "American Idol" brought an end to the audition rounds, the traditional home of costumed jokers, cracked-voice clowns, delusional dingbats and the occasional kewpie-doll ringer and blue-eyed crooner with a broken heart of gold.
The clip show brought together a variety of the best of this year's wannabes, from raspy-voiced Lee DeWyze of Illinois, a paint store clerk who sang a sandpaper cover of Bill Withers' classic soul tune "Ain't No Sunshine," to dreadlocked hippie chick Crystal Bowersox, a 23-year-old musician mom who went with the rocker girl classic "Piece of My Heart" by Janis Joplin.
Theater student Amanda Shechtman, 19, impressed the judges with her delivery of Billie Holiday's "Good Morning Heartache,...
By Gil Kaufman
Michael Lynche on Wednesday's episode of "American Idol"
Photo: Fox
To the relief of anyone who's a true fan, Wednesday night's "American Idol" brought an end to the audition rounds, the traditional home of costumed jokers, cracked-voice clowns, delusional dingbats and the occasional kewpie-doll ringer and blue-eyed crooner with a broken heart of gold.
The clip show brought together a variety of the best of this year's wannabes, from raspy-voiced Lee DeWyze of Illinois, a paint store clerk who sang a sandpaper cover of Bill Withers' classic soul tune "Ain't No Sunshine," to dreadlocked hippie chick Crystal Bowersox, a 23-year-old musician mom who went with the rocker girl classic "Piece of My Heart" by Janis Joplin.
Theater student Amanda Shechtman, 19, impressed the judges with her delivery of Billie Holiday's "Good Morning Heartache,...
- 2/3/2010
- MTV Music News
Michael Lynche has reportedly been cut from the final 24 American Idol contestants, after his dad gave an interview to a local newspaper.
Michael made it through the Orlando round of auditions and on past the Hollywood stage, but his dad told The St. Petersburg Times, that he had made the top 24, violating AI rules.
If Lynche’s disqualification is true, it is the second year running that a finalist has been cut from the lineup. Last year, Joanna Pacitti, was sent off after making the top 36 when producers said it had been determined that she “is ineligible to continue in the competition.” She was then replaced by Felicia Barton.
Related posts:American Idol To Have Michael Jackson WeekAmerican Idol 2010: Final 24 revealed?American Idol: Scott MacIntyre, Jorge Nunez & Lil Rounds Get Through To Final 12Kanye West To Appear On This Weeks American IdolAmerican Idol: Anoop Desai, Jasmine Murray, Megan Corkrey...
Michael made it through the Orlando round of auditions and on past the Hollywood stage, but his dad told The St. Petersburg Times, that he had made the top 24, violating AI rules.
If Lynche’s disqualification is true, it is the second year running that a finalist has been cut from the lineup. Last year, Joanna Pacitti, was sent off after making the top 36 when producers said it had been determined that she “is ineligible to continue in the competition.” She was then replaced by Felicia Barton.
Related posts:American Idol To Have Michael Jackson WeekAmerican Idol 2010: Final 24 revealed?American Idol: Scott MacIntyre, Jorge Nunez & Lil Rounds Get Through To Final 12Kanye West To Appear On This Weeks American IdolAmerican Idol: Anoop Desai, Jasmine Murray, Megan Corkrey...
- 1/27/2010
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
Matt must be one of the first American Idol contestants who admitted to his criminal past, before he got to the Hollywood stage of the competition.
Matt got arrested at age 15 for robbing a bank and spent the next four years in jail, which is kind of badass, but the boy can sing.
Matt gave an emotional performance of Ray Lamontagne’s “Trouble.”
Simon said, “It almost feels like you could have written that song. That’s how believable it was.”
“You’re so genuine, dude,” Randy agreed. “That’s what it’s about.”
Unanimous decision to send him to Hollywood! Yay!
Related posts:American Idol: Judges use one-off veto to save Matt GiraudAmerican Idol: Matt Giraud & Allison Iraheta Plan To Stay HumbleAmerican Idol: Matt Giraud Ignores Cowell’s Fashion AdviceAmerican Idol: Scott MacIntyre, Jorge Nunez & Lil Rounds Get Through To Final 12American Idol: Anoop Desai, Jasmine Murray, Megan Corkrey...
Matt got arrested at age 15 for robbing a bank and spent the next four years in jail, which is kind of badass, but the boy can sing.
Matt gave an emotional performance of Ray Lamontagne’s “Trouble.”
Simon said, “It almost feels like you could have written that song. That’s how believable it was.”
“You’re so genuine, dude,” Randy agreed. “That’s what it’s about.”
Unanimous decision to send him to Hollywood! Yay!
Related posts:American Idol: Judges use one-off veto to save Matt GiraudAmerican Idol: Matt Giraud & Allison Iraheta Plan To Stay HumbleAmerican Idol: Matt Giraud Ignores Cowell’s Fashion AdviceAmerican Idol: Scott MacIntyre, Jorge Nunez & Lil Rounds Get Through To Final 12American Idol: Anoop Desai, Jasmine Murray, Megan Corkrey...
- 1/21/2010
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
American Idol's ninth season begins tonight on Fox -- look for PopWatch posts from yours truly right before and after the showx-, plus a full TV Watch recap on EW.com in the early morning -- but today, the show's fans are still buzzing about Simon Cowell's announcement that he won't return for season 10 in 2011. I picked up my special IdolPhone (covered in Ford, At&T, and Coca-Cola logos) and reached out to five popular former contestants -- Melinda Doolittle, Brooke White, Anoop Desai, Matt Giraud, and Megan Joy -- and asked them two all-important questions: Can Idol...
- 1/12/2010
- by Michael Slezak
- EW.com - PopWatch
Find out what last season’s top 13 are up to now!
With the season premiere of “American Idol” just days away (can you stand it?) we thought it’d be fun to catch up with the contestants that captivated your hearts — and your texting fingers — last season. We all know what’s happened to winner Kris Allen and runner-up Adam Lambert, but what about Lil Rounds? Or Megan Joy? We’ve been keeping tabs on all 13 contestants!
Kris Allen
After his win over heavily-favored Adam, Kris’ debut single, “No Boundaries,” was released on May 20, 2009 on iTunes, alongside Adam’s version. Kris’ version of the song debuted at No. 11 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart for the week of May 29. Kris’ self-titled album was released on Nov. 17, 2009. After its first week of sales, the album debuted at No. 11 on the Billboard 200 after selling just over 80,000 copies. Adam Lambert
Though he came in second,...
With the season premiere of “American Idol” just days away (can you stand it?) we thought it’d be fun to catch up with the contestants that captivated your hearts — and your texting fingers — last season. We all know what’s happened to winner Kris Allen and runner-up Adam Lambert, but what about Lil Rounds? Or Megan Joy? We’ve been keeping tabs on all 13 contestants!
Kris Allen
After his win over heavily-favored Adam, Kris’ debut single, “No Boundaries,” was released on May 20, 2009 on iTunes, alongside Adam’s version. Kris’ version of the song debuted at No. 11 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart for the week of May 29. Kris’ self-titled album was released on Nov. 17, 2009. After its first week of sales, the album debuted at No. 11 on the Billboard 200 after selling just over 80,000 copies. Adam Lambert
Though he came in second,...
- 1/11/2010
- by Andy Swift
- HollywoodLife
It's hard out here for an American Idol contestant on the road with the post-show tour, especially when (unlike Kris Allen, Adam Lambert, and Allison Iraheta) he hasn't yet been signed by 19 Entertainment. But fret not for season 8 heartthrob Anoop Desai. He's got a plan to move to Los Angeles this fall, where he's hoping to get in the studio, make "music for music's sake," and turn out material that'll fit very nicely alongside such non-vocoder-reliant R&B artists as Ne-Yo, Chrisette Michele, and Musiq Soulchild. If you love Anoop (and why wouldn't you?), then pressing play below is required by law. (Gratuitous leg shots included! If you appreciate them, follow me on Twitter @EWMichaelSlezak!) More 'American Idol': Kris Allen dishes his new CD, going country Megan Joy: Still fighting for independence on the Idol tour Matt Giraud: I'm not a Justin Timberlake wannabe! Jason Castro...
- 8/27/2009
- by Michael Slezak
- EW.com - PopWatch
For those of you wondering if I scored any Danny Gokey scoop at the American Idols Live tour stop in Albany, NY last week -- aside from our "why do you like me so much?" exchange -- the answer is most indubitably "yes!" Danny says he'll be sharing some good news with his fans before month's end, and that despite the R&B-Latin-country spread of his current tour set, he's settled on a genre for his debut disc. Press play below to find out which musical path he's taking, whether or not he's planning to write his own music, and what he explains are his "two ways of singing." And keep your eyes peeled for Bonus Rocker and Bonus Giraud sightings! Oh, and a few housekeeping notes. Keep checking back this week at PopWatch for additional interview footage starring Lil Rounds and Anoooooooop Desai! Sadly, no Allison or Adam interviews...
- 8/25/2009
- by Michael Slezak
- EW.com - PopWatch
Ask most folks who've been to the 2009 American Idols Live tour, and they'll tell you the big revelation among the season 8 top 10 finalists is fifth-place finisher Matt Giraud. At the tour stops I attended in Newark, NJ, and Albany, NY, Matt's electrifying performances -- vocally and on the keyboards -- on "Hard to Handle," "Georgia on My Mind," and "You Found Me" left the crowd (even folks like me, who didn't quite warm up to Matt during his season 8 tenure) on its feet. I caught up with Matt in the latter city to ask him about why he's playing so loose and funky these days, and to find out about the music he's been writing for the last couple months at hotel-lobby pianos across the country. Press play below, and enjoy! (And if you missed Mr. Giraud's hilarious first appearance on Idolatry back in May, don't miss the link below!
- 8/24/2009
- by Michael Slezak
- EW.com - PopWatch
Here are some things you need to know about American Idol season 8 finalist Megan Joy: She's not afraid to speak her mind in an interview, even if her answers seem likely to anger the powerful 19/Idol overlords. She's as lovely (if not lovelier) without a smidge of makeup as she is when she's gussied up on stage. And what you've heard from her (musically) to date is very very different from what she hopes to produce in a post-Idol career. Press play below and watch me try to extract info from Megan (at a recent Albany, NY tour stop) about a possible TV gig, the hot pink mini-dress she's been wearing on tour, and her definition of success.
- 8/21/2009
- by Michael Slezak
- EW.com - PopWatch
Like Denise Richards' E! reality series, the relationship between Idolatry and Danny Gokey is complicated. But when we caught up with American Idol's season 8 second runner-up during the Idols Live tour stop in Albany, NY, Danny took control of the interview for a hot minute to ask me some tough questions of his own, and to give a shout-out to his nemesis, Idolatry co-host Kristen Baldwin. Press play below to hear what he had to say, click here to see our chat with Kris Allen (he's got new collaborators!), and stay tuned in the days ahead for more Albany interviews with Mr. Gokey (he's picking a genre!), Matt Giraud (he's been writing!), Megan Joy (she's not just just pursuing singing, folks!), Lil Rounds (she's a bedazzler!), and of course, Anoop Desai (he's always on our minds)! (Also, special word of warning to Kradison fans: Adam Lambert and Allison Iraheta...
- 8/21/2009
- by Michael Slezak
- EW.com - PopWatch
When we first caught up with Megan Joy, American Idol's ninth-place finisher, before the summer tour, she warned us that she'd be the "skanky one" on the outing. Before you take that the wrong way (she is a mom, after all!), she was talking about her tour wardrobe—specifically that tight, pink Barbie-esque shiny dress. We had to ask her: Is that something you would wear offstage? "No, never," she told us this morning. But it's great onstage, right? "Uh, I guess." Oh, you don't like it. "Yeah, no, nope." Well, you can change it can't you? "Nope. But it's all right." Ok, moving on then to more important topics, like what's on her career...
- 8/17/2009
- E! Online
Her movie star looks caught the attention of fans and judges during her Idol audition in Salt Lake and she was ready to chase her dream. As soon as Megan opened her mouth and shared with the world her bluesy unique sound, millions fell in love. The hard working mother of one came to American Idol with a dream to be heard. Not only was the talented beauty heard but fans connected with her down-to-earth personality and her devotion to always creating new and exciting performances that showcased her talents. PopStar spoke with Megan Joy who talked about life on the road, her hopes to break into the acting business, and how her style was incorporated into her tour sets. From the get-go Megan was compared to Grammy winner Amy Winehouse and Adele; week by week, Megan impressed the judges with her soulful take on classics and instantly became a fan favorite.
- 8/13/2009
- by cjoyce@corp.popstar.com (Colleen Joyce)
- PopStar
As eager fans pour into their seats, running slides of pictures are shown on the jumbo tram to build up the anticipation for the show. Something happens every 9th &10th slide; out of nowhere, deafening screams fill the arena and leave many clinching their ears. Just the sights of Adam Lambert and Kris Allen have children and adults alike screaming with enthusiasm at ear piercing levels. Minutes away from Michael Sarver kicking off the American Idol concert, fans quickly juggle their refreshments as they find their seats in the dusk lit arena. As the final lights are drawn, the season eight American Idols get their finishing touches added to them, and in the jammed packed arena, the concert begins. Flashback to four hours earlier. The hungry press begins to formulate backstage and as soon as the doors to the conference room are flung open, the feeding frenzy begins. Anxiously awaiting the Idols,...
- 8/10/2009
- by cjoyce@corp.popstar.com (Colleen Joyce)
- PopStar
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.