With songs from yesterday and today to work with, the Idol contestants had two chances to show America why they should be the next American Idol. Some really brought it, while others had a misstep or two.
This week's mentor is none other than Sheryl Crow.
James: Song from Today-Closer to the Edge, by 30 Seconds to Mars. First, I really like Jared Leto's band, 30 Seconds to Mars, so I was excited to hear James taking this on. Was it a good performance? Yes, absolutely, but it wasn't my favorite. Maybe I'm spoiled to Jared Leto's voice on this song. Still, he's clearly in the zone to win this thing.
Song from Yesterday--Without You, by Harry Nilsson. In the video, James broke down in tears when he heard the lyrics. He wants to give his family a better life. The love for his family is something very dear to me. I love his emotion--it made my eyes burn, I can tell you that. During his performance, tears poured from his eyes...and he got me again. It wasn't technically perfect, but it was emotional brilliance. Now, I need a Kleenex.
Jacob: Song from Today--No Air, by Jordin Sparks. This song was originally a duet, so Jacob tackled singing two parts to one song. Credit him there. However, I hate to say this, but it was rough. It sounded a little shaky, very sharp, and perhaps a bit off, all the way through the song. Agh, I hate saying it, but he needs to knock his next song out of the park.
Song from Yesterday--Love Hurts by Nazareth. Seriously, way better than his first song. There was a shaky moment in the middle of the song, but, overall, THIS was Jacob.
Lauren: Song from Today--Flat on the Floor, by Carrie Underwood. This song is full of attitude...it's a HUGE song for a HUGE voice...and Miss Lauren BROUGHT IT. Look who's growing in the competition! Sing it, sweetie! That's how to own the stage! She's coming to life, folks, and the timing couldn't be better.
Song from Yesterday--Unchained Melody by the Righteous Brothers. Big song--needs big emotion. Is she too young to really relate to these lyrics? I was concerned. First, she looked absolutely stunning--loving her hair! Second...she sang it beautifully. Was it the best rendition? Probably not, no, but she did a good job with a tough, tough song.
Scotty: Song from Today--Gone, by Montgomery Gentry. If you know country, you know how tough this song is. He started it perfectly in his deep, deep country voice. When it kicked in, I was like: "Whoa, where did this come from?!" He had ATTITUDE! That laid back country boy came out of his shell. The judges were overwhelmed, with Jennifer Lopez saying she nearly lost it and Randy telling him he felt like he was at a concert. Like I said, whether he wins this or loses Idol, he's going to be a country star.
Song from Yesterday--Always on My Mind, by Elvis Presley. I dearly love his PERFECT country voice. Honestly, country needs his voice. Jennifer Lopez said exactly what I couldn't get over--Scotty looks so incredibly comfortable for someone so young. Amazing. Sheryl Crow said it best--she looks forward to him moving to Nashville and having a big career that she can find a way to horn in on. lol
Haley: Song of Today--You and I, by Lady Gaga. Bit of a twist: Unreleased Gaga song for Haley. Sadly, I'm not familiar with the song, so I really can't give a fair review. I liked the ending. The beginning didn't work for me. Randy mentioned a little Joss Stone for Haley, which would have been a fantastic fit for her voice. She took a huge risk tonight. Did it pay off?
Song of Yesterday--The House of the Rising Sun by The Animals. Fantastic rendition. I loved when she softened her voice in the middle of the song--if she did that more often...wow. I'm just not a big fan of the growling. Still, she had her idol moment with this song.
We're getting towards the end here! Who do you think has the "it" factor and who do you think has to go home?
