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The Arkansan became the "Idol" all star.

Was that a stunner or what? I was so sure I would be writing the name Adam Lambert followed by the words, "newest 'Idol' champ." But then came one of the biggest "Idol" upsets I have seen. That's one of the reasons I love this show because sometimes you never really know how America is going to vote.

I am a Kris fan, but I also believe that Adam is going to just explode on the music scene. We haven't seen the last of our guy in guyliner. He's got the chops, the creativity and the chutzpah to really carve out a nice career. So, guys, I salute you both. You made this one spectacular season.

And speaking of the season, I think overall it gave us some really great stuff. Some of the highlights for me included Motown Week and the Rat Pack theme, as well as that crazy awesome duet between Adam and Allison Iraheta during rock week.

And speaking of the teen queen, was that not amazing to see her sing with Cyndi Lauper? It was fitting since Allison seemed to be channeling, through one of her early performance outfits, an 80's era Cyndi. Like Adam, I don't think this is the last we will be seeing of Allison. At least, I hope not. She truly was exciting to watch this season.

And so our "Idol" ride ends again. I end this blog on the same note as I started it. During the first episode of the season, I titled my entry "The Good, the Bad and the Bikini" after those initial auditions. I also think it's a fitting way to describe the end of the season.

We saw the good (the top 13), the bad (Tatiana Del Toro and, there at the end of her run, Megan Joy) and the Bikini (as in Bikini Girl who still irritates me when I see her on the show). If that's not good TV, I don't know what is.

But before I end this entry, I want to thank all of you who read my musings and sent comments. I always looked forward to what you had to say, and agreed with a lot of it. Again, thank you so much. Now, go rest those "Idol" eyes because the new season will be here before you know it.

And then there were two. It's Glambert vs. Kris the cutie. Or, as Ryan Seacrest called it, the "guy next door vs. the guyliner."

Here's something else to call it -- a super showdown.

I think that best describes the final night of competition. In the end, I'm glad the finale is between Kris Allen and Adam Lambert because both bring such different vibes to the show. You have Adam the rocker and Kris the folk rocker. Plus, I appreciate that the guys seem to genuinely like one another. I guess it's a good example of friendly competition.

Later, I'll talk about who I would like to win said competition. But now, let's get into their performances.

Adam -- I was just sure that Adam was going to pull one of his rock anthems for his personal song pick of the night but, instead, he gave us "Mad World" and what a wonderful "World" it was. I've said repeatedly that my favorite Adam moments are when he shows his softer side. I loved the song. Still, I have to give props to Simon when he said the performance with the smoke machines and Adam's outfit was a little like "The Phantom of the Opera." And speaking of music of the night, Adam's next song was the classic tune "A Change Is Gonna Come." Adam took the R&B song and rocked it up, as usual. I wasn't such a fan of this one because it was just too screechy for me. 

Kris -- Like Adam, Mr. Arkansas knows how to reinvent a song, and it was great to hear him sing "Ain't No Sunshine" again. I am a sucker for a guy who can play the piano, and Kris gave an incredibly heartfelt performance. His next song was "What's Going On," and, unlike the judges, I actually loved it. I enjoyed the laid-back vibe because I think it brought something different to the song.  

The last song was "No Boundaries," which was co-written by judge Kara DioGuardi. I have heard better power ballads. In fact, last season's winner David Cook had a much better ballad with "The Time of My Life." But I digress. Ultimately, I think "No Boundaries" was better suited for Adam than Kris. Hmm, wonder if Kara planned it that way? The woman does love her some Adam.

So, now back to the big question. Who will win? My bet is on Adam, but my personal pick is Kris. I like Kris' voice and the fact that he is a triple threat, so to speak. He can sing and play the piano and guitar. Plus, I would buy his album. As for Adam, I think he is a talented artist who brought something unique to this season. That said, he is a little too screamy for my tastes. And that horrible arrangement of "Ring of Fire" that he did earlier this season still gives me nightmares. Yet, the judges have adored him this entire season. Let's see if voters feel the same kind of love.

As for the rest of Tuesday's show, how cool was it to see Carrie Underwood belting "Home Sweet Home" live? I'll answer that -- it was awesome. I also loved the montage of clips from the season. I got to see some of my early faves and the contestants who still frighten me a little. Let's call them the trio of terror. That would be Bikini Girl, Norman Gentle and last, but certainly not least, Tatiana Del Toro. In fact, as I type that name I can distinctly remember that crazy laugh of hers. Talk about nightmares.

OK, so tune in Wednesday for two hours of awesomeness, capped off with the crowning of a new "Idol" king.

 Gokey is gone from "Idol."

Danny Gokey, who many thought would be one of the final two, got the heave-ho in Wednesday's show.

Was that a shocker or what? For a split second, I thought the results would have Danny and Kris Allen fighting for the "Idol" crown. But, instead, we will have Kris competing with Adam Lambert. Now, I really do believe that all of Arkansas is voting for Kris. And well they should. His acoustic version of Kanye West's song "Heartless" was terrific and definitely helped him stay in the contest.

As for Adam, well it's pretty clear the judges have long been members of Team Adam. I do think Adam is a creative and daring performer. I'm sure he will find lots of success after "Idol" no matter what happens.

But, before we go further, I do want to say a little something for Danny. He is a likable guy, and it took guts to try out for the show so soon after his wife's death. He definitely had a great "Idol" run even if I wasn't always a big fan of his performances. But still, good luck Gokey.

OK, so now we gear up for the big show next week. Will it be the resident rocker who takes the "Idol" crown or the folksy fellow? I can't wait to watch and find out.

Danny

Tuesday's "Idol" was all about second helpings and second chances.

We got to hear two songs from the three finalists. One song was picked by the judges and the other was the singer's choice. What is amusing is how all season long the judges have talked repeatedly about how the contestants must absolutely pick the right song. I definitely agree, but it's not as easy at it looks, eh judges? Turns out, the judges don't always know what the best choice is either.

Also, Tuesday's show has left me uncertain about who is going home Wednesday. The judges have all but anointed Adam Lambert as this year's "Idol." But not so fast. Danny Gokey could woo more voters and win this thing. Oh, the suspense. Well, since I can't predict the future, how about I just talk about the present? OK then, let's get right into Tuesday's performances.

Danny -- Overall, his first song, "Dance Little Sister," was not an amazing performance. Oh sure he brought energy to his take on the Terence Trent D’Arby song, which Paula Abdul chose for him, but it sounded like some of the other songs he has done. I just didn't think he brought anything new to the tune. And I am puzzled why Paula thought it would be a good fit. But before I could count Danny out, he goes and astounds me with his next performance of "You Are So Beautiful." And, man, was it beautiful. Danny gave such a sweet and tender take on the song made popular by Joe Cocker. For me, it was Danny's best moment.

Adam -- Simon Cowell got to pick the first song for Adam, which was U2's "One."  Not only that, Simon had to get special permission from Bono so Adam could sing it. Despite the fanfare, I don't think Adam fared well overall with the song. Granted, I love that he started off softly but I was not crazy about the changes to the melody in the rest of the song. I enjoy when Adam takes on slower songs, but I don't think this was a standout performance. For his next song, Adam chose "Cryin'" by Aerosmith. True, Adam is ever the rocker but the backup singer ended up drowning him out early in the song. I think Adam is a talented guy but I don't feel like he really had an outstanding moment in Tuesday' show. But, I would be shocked if he didn't make it to the finale. 

Kris -- Kris was the other finalist who I thought was done for after his first performance. Kara DioGuardi and Randy Jackson picked the song "Apologize" from OneRepublic for Kris. It came across as a really good karaoke version of the song but that was about it. For round two, Kris came out and was simply amazing on stage with his acoustic version of Kanye West's song "Heartless." It was such a creative take on the song. Bravo Kris. It was my favorite moment of the night because it was so unexpected.

OK, we are so close to the end and I am still not sure about the final two. I am sure about one thing. It should be a fabulous finale.

Adam

Danny

Kris

Why America, why?

Why did teen rocker Allison Iraheta get the boot from the show? Really, it would have been nice to see the wee one hold her own against the guys in the finale. But, alas, it was not to be. I was afraid Allison would be sent home before the dudes. It's my firm belief that she did 20 times better than Danny Gokey did during this week's rock theme.

At least Danny was in the bottom two, and well he should have been after his terrible take on "Dream On." But Danny is still in this contest, along with Adam Lambert and Kris Allen. I have long thought that the final two would be Danny and Adam but now I'm thinking that Kris could swipe that spot from Danny.

But before we get into that, I would like to say a little more about Allison. I love that she made it this far on the show. Her distinct voice and sass allowed her to stand out from the other ladies in the competition. So, I hope Allison does pull a Chris Daughtry and is able to gain oodles of success post "Idol."

Speaking of Daughtry, he was great in tonight's show. I loved his song "No Surprise" so much better than No Doubt's performance. I do enjoy a little No Doubt here and there but found tonight's performance from the group to be lacking. Maybe it's that Gwen Stefani seemed a bit too winded during their hit "Just a Girl." I love that song when it plays on the radio, but tonight it just didn't sound all that sharp. Maybe the group is saving the good stuff for the big tour.

I will give Gwen props for at least singing her song. Can't say the same for Paula Abdul. Am I the only one who believes she lip-synched her way through her song "I'm Just Here"? Surely you all would agree. I'm not a Paula hater, mind you. In fact, I love her older songs but I don't think this new single of hers is going to be a hit. I will say this, though, the woman can still bust a move on the stage.

Oh, one more thing about this week, I must admit that I wasn't overly impressed with the rock theme. I just wasn't as thrilled with the rock performances as I was with those during "Rat Pack" week. Still, Tuesday's show prompted 64 million votes, so apparently it was a popular theme for folks. 

So now we have Danny, Kris and Adam left. I'm thinking Adam could still win this thing, especially if Danny lets out another horrific howl like he did Tuesday. But, it looks like Kris won't be ignored, either. So, ladies and gentlemen, I guess it's still too early to start placing those "Idol" bets.

 Allison. Photo courtesy of FOX

Let's be honest with ourselves, shall we? Tuesday night's show was really going to be all about Adam Lambert and Allison Iraheta. They are this season's resident rockers and, with Tuesday bringing a rock theme, how could the two not dominate?

And they definitely did on a night that gave the four finalists a chance to mix it up with Slash, who rose to rock glory with Guns N' Roses. Also, for the first time, we got to see the finalists sing duets during a performance night.

OK, so slip on your leather pants, hold up your lighter, crank up the classic rock and let's get rolling. I've decided to classify the performances into two categories in terms of how rockin' the finalists were.

Heavy metal: Tuesday's star was Adam, by far. He has the vocal range and attitude for the rock theme. On a side note, the more I watch him perform, the more I see him as a modern day Freddie Mercury, the Queen frontman. Adam definitely has the same stage flair and ability to captivate. But, Adam did not choose a Queen song. Instead, he performed "Whole Lotta Love" by Led Zeppelin. True to form, Adam was ever the rock star as he commanded the stage and belted out his notes. The judges loved them some Adam. Simon told him that no one would be able to top his performance on Tuesday, and Simon was right. Next up was little rocker chick Allison who chose "Cry Baby" by Janis Joplin. I really wish she hadn't performed a Janis song because I think it's hard to infuse those songs with originality after Joplin's unique style. Still, I thought Allison had swagger and sass and did the song justice.

Lite rock: Poor Kris Allen. Tuesday night's theme was going to be tough for him. The guy is just not the type who will be fronting Metallica anytime soon. The same goes for Danny Gokey. It's just not their genre. Still, they gave it a go with mixed results. Kris chose "Come Together" by The Beatles and it was so-so. It felt like the song overpowered him instead of vice versa. But the note -- actually, make that the scream -- heard round the "Idol" world was from Danny. He picked "Dream On" by Aerosmith and did nothing new with the song. When it came to the song's glory note at the end, Danny let out a scream that, I swear, could be heard in a space station at that exact moment. It was terrible and I thought it was his worst performance. Simon said Danny's last note was like watching a horror movie. I have to agree because that note will probably haunt my dreams tonight.

Dueling duets: Adam and Allison were really the power couple tonight. They finished the show with a performance of "Slow Ride" by Foghat that was stellar. The two really worked well together, and the judges suggested they perform a duet again when each of them cuts a record. Danny and Kris also tag-teamed it with the song "Renegade" by Styx. I wasn't crazy about the performance because it lacked any kind of power or pizazz.  

Now it's time to determine who will be sent packing on Wednesday. I would say Kris because he did not fare well Tuesday night, but I think he has a large enough fan base that will save him. My fear is that it might be Allison who heads home. It would make me sad, but I'd just have to hold out hope that she makes an album soon. Other than that, I think Danny should be in the bottom three.

All right, rocker gals and guys, what did you think about tonight's theme? Did it rock your house? Also, what were your thoughts about the duets? Did they dazzle or disappoint you?

 Allison

 Danny

Mr. Judges' Save couldn't secure a longer stay on "Idol."

Matt Giraud was sent home in Wednesday's results show. Before belting out his last tune on the stage, Matt talked about how he felt like a cat with nine lives on the show after the judges saved him from elimination a few shows back. He was one cool cat, that's for sure.

True, I wasn't crazy about his performance of "My Funny Valentine" during this week's Rat Pack music theme. I thought all the performances were stellar but found his to be the weakest of the bunch. Still, Matt from Michigan was fun to watch this season, especially when he played the piano and jazzed things up on the show. Overall, I like his style and hope he finds a way to keep performing in the future.

But the true shocker of Wednesday's show was the bottom three. Along with Matt, there was Kris Allen and Adam Lambert. Oh yes, you read that right, Adam was in the bottom three. I was stunned. While I am not an avid Adam fan, I was surprised that he was among the lowest vote-getters. I mean, the judges are always jonesing for Adam to take the stage. In their eyes, he can do no wrong. Plus, he seems to have a strong fan base. The other shocker of the night was that Adam was in the bottom two, once Kris was sent to the safe seats.

I've been saying for awhile that Adam will likely be one of the two finalists remaining but, after Wednesday, I am not quite sure. Perhaps his performance of "Feeling Good" was too flashy and over the top for many voters. Anyhow, the "Idol" game just got a lot more interesting after this development.

I will say this for all the finalists -- they were a hundred times better during their performances than this week's mentor Jamie Foxx was during his. What kind of musical mess was that? All that electronic enhancement to his voice during his song "Blame It" did nothing to improve the song. In fact, it made it worse.

Luckily, Natalie Cole and Taylor Hicks were on hand to offer up some terrific work. Natalie performed "Something's Gotta Give" and the woman has such class and talent. I loved her song. Also, former "Idol" winner Taylor took a rockabilly turn with his song "Seven Mile Breakdown." I enjoyed the energy that Taylor brought to the stage.

So, now we're down to the final four. I can't wait to see who will step up and step into "Idol" stardom.

Matt Giraud. Photo courtesy of FOX

Ol' Blue Eyes would have been impressed with Tuesday's "Idol."

At least, I hope the late great Frank Sinatra would have been pleased because I really believe the five finalists paid wonderful tribute to songs from the Rat Pack era. Actually, this theme has been my absolute favorite so far. I really felt like everyone stepped up and showed why they should be the next "Idol."

I do have one tiny complaint. While I thought actor/singer Jamie Foxx offered some good advice as a mentor, I would have preferred to see Michael Buble (love him!) as a mentor instead because he really is kind of a modern-day Sinatra. OK, tiny complaint over.

Now, let's focus on our lone gal and four gents.

Kris Allen -- I noticed a sign held by an audience member on Tuesday that said, "Krazy for Kris." Very "kute." But enough about that, let's talk about his mad singing skills. He chose "The Way You Look Tonight" and it was terrific. He changed the arrangement a bit and upped the tempo at the end. All in all, it was another awesome moment for him. The judges also raved about the performance, except for Simon who thought it was good but not incredible.

Allison Iraheta -- The only lady left in the competition proved that she won't be overlooked in the boys' club. She performed "Someone to Watch Over Me" and it was a beautiful ballad. It is my favorite performance from the teen so far. She showed nice restraint at times but then belted out some big notes that gave the performance a boost. Bravo, little one, bravo.

Matt Giraud -- Matt chose "My Funny Valentine" and it was nice but not out of sight for me. I thought he had some pitch problems and weird phrasing in places. I agree with Randy when he said the song didn't quite "come together" very well.

Danny Gokey -- Danny definitely has a swagger going. He gave a bluesy performance of "Come Rain or Come Shine" and it was strong. He had some great vocals, and I think the performance was enough to keep Danny advancing in the competition. I do have a minor issue with Danny. Sometimes he seems a little bit arrogant when the judges give him their critiques. It's almost as if he expects them to be thrilled with his work. Danny is definitely talented but not everything he has done this season has been golden. So, show a little humbleness at times, Gokey. You haven't won this competition yet.

Adam Lambert -- Adam should be "Feeling Good," especially after the judges praised his performance of the song. He gave it a rock edge and, again, took an older song and made it original. It was over-the-top in moments but I have come to expect that from Adam. I will say this for Adam, he always seems to be genuinely touched when he gets a compliment from the judges. That impresses me. By now, the guy knows he can sing well and that he is close to the finish line of the show, but he always appears kind of surprised when the judges and the audience show him all kinds of love after a song.

OK, so who will say adios this week? I think it should be Matt. I like him, but if he advances over Allison I will be outraged. She is talented, unique and sassy and should stay in the show.

All righty, it's time to wrap up this Rat Pack entry. I already have a few of the songs still kicking around in my head. Thanks for that "Idol" and thanks for honoring Ol' Blue Eyes and his bunch.

Matt Giraud. Photo courtesy of FOX

Lots of love to Lil and Anoop.

The two finalists headed home after Wednesday's results show. The double elimination was brought on after the judges used their special save last week to keep Matt Giraud in the contest.

It was fun watching Lil and Anoop this season, and I remain a fan of them both. I thought they showed some amazing talent and great attitudes throughout their run. So, I salute them.

Rounding out the bottom three, though, was teen rocker Allison Iraheta. Why America, why? The girl can sing and she's got originality and spunk. Plus, she has a crazy cool hair color. But seriously, Allison has been one of my favorite finalists because even at a young age, she steps onto that stage and comes off like a pro.

As for the rest of the results show, I appreciated the medley of disco hits to cap off this week's disco theme. Also, little David Archuleta came back to perform. Looks like Archie is making quite a name for himself in the music biz and appears to still be a sweet guy.

OK, so now we are down to the fabulous five on "Idol." They are: Allison, Kris Allen, Adam Lambert, Danny Gokey and Matt Giraud. So, start exercising those fingers now because there is more texting and phoning to be done.

Allison. Photo courtesy of FOX

Disco got done up right on Tuesday night.

The seven finalists dabbled in the disco era and some performed as if they were born to boogie on that "Idol" stage, while others may see America ditch them like a white polyester pant suit. Also, the stakes are even higher after Tuesday's show. The judges decided to save Matt Giraud last week, which means that two finalists will head home this week. 

So, put on your boogie shoes, dust off your mirror ball and let's recap the night away. 

Lil Rounds -- Perhaps Lil should have selected the song "Last Dance" because it appears that she won't be with "Idol" very much longer. Or so say the judges. She performed "I'm Every Woman" and I, for one, actually enjoyed it. It looked as if Lil was finally having fun on the stage and she hit some strong notes. However, the judges thought it lacked originality and believe she will be booted. I have to agree. I am a Lil fan but I think bad song choices have plagued her since she got to Hollywood.

Kris Allen -- Adam Lambert better watch his back because Kris is creeping up on him fast in the creativity department. Kris performed "She Works Hard for the Money" and blew the audience away with his Santana-like arrangement with the song. Kris is starting to seem like this season's Jason Castro --without the dreadlocks. I mean that as a compliment because I always looked forward to Jason's take on a song. I feel that way about Kris, and I love his vocals and verve.

Danny Gokey -- Danny did not really wow me with his take on "September." Sure his vocals were strong but the arrangement lacked originality. The judges took Lil to task because they felt her song was too much like the original but said nothing about Danny doing the same thing. Still, I do enjoy Danny's voice. I just feel like we keep seeing the same performance from him over and over again. It's big song, big notes, big finish. Wash, rinse and repeat. I'd like to see Danny change things up more often.

Allison Iraheta -- Speaking of changing things up with a song, that's exactly what Allison did with her rocked-out rendition of "Hot Stuff." It was cool and edgy, and I have never heard that type of arrangement for the song. While the judges weren't thrilled with the arrangement, they thought she did a brilliant job singing.

Adam Lambert -- I've got to give Adam props again for coming up with a creative take on a song. He chose "If I Can't Have You" and slowed it way down to a ballad. So, yeah, it was interesting but it wasn't a hit for me. I like Adam's sensitive soulful side, but I think he slowed the song down too much. It felt too choppy in segments when it should have been smoother. But, mark my words, Adam will be in the top two. The judges adore him, and it is exciting to see what he will come up with next.

Matt Giraud -- Mr. Saved from 'Idol' Oblivion did his best to show the judges that they made the right decision. He performed "Stayin' Alive" and, again, showed his Justin Timberlake-ish qualities with his strut and strong singing. I am not sure if it will be enough to keep him in the competition but it was better than Anoop's performance.

Anoop Desai -- Anoop chose "Dim All The Lights," which was appropriate because it made me want to fall asleep. He is a talented singer, but I found this performance to be so boring and the song was not memorable. Simon called it Anoop's worst performance. I wouldn't go that far but I do think it was a snoozer. 

OK, so here's who I think may be headed home: Lil, Anoop or Matt.  What about you other fans out there? Who wowed you on Tuesday, and name the finalists you think are destined to play their funky music for the last time?

Lil Rounds

Anoop Desai