This year's American Idol is featuring unprecedented talent, not to mention Ellen Degeneres replacing Paula Abdul as one of the judges. The musical level the contestants are competing on a more elevated level of competition than ever before. Last night, the top twelve went head to head with a Rolling Stones themed evening. The competition was stiff with each contestant making no attempt to hold back. Unfortunately, one will go home tonight. Let's take a look at the top twelve and their chances as the finals begin.
The two females touted highly from the beginning are Siobhan Magnus [AI9SMA] and the ethereal chanteuse Crystal Bowers [AI9CBO] who are besting each other at every turn. Both stand apart from the usual pop idol persona and each has with her strong individuality that is changing the style of the competition. It is clear that the two are being groomed for rivalry in this year round.
Didi Benami [AI9DBE] had been teetering on being boring, but last night delivered some more pazzaaz. She was applauded by all the judges and has proven to audiences that there are more good things to come from her. Now, she just needs to make everyone believe she is capable of winning delivering it. Paige Miles [AI9PMI] has struggled vocally and song choices, but seems to shine with her personality. Last night after another weak performance, she is going to have to connect with the listeners to be taken seriously.
The teenage Katie Stevens [AI9KST] has held her own up until now, but must begin to cultivate her own style if she wants to compete with the big kids. Lacey Brown [AI9LBR], who did so bad that the judges spared her the truth, is probably most in danger of being eliminated. Poor Lacey has never really been able to rise beyond her audition and it seems due to a case of nerves.
One of the strongest male performers this year, Michael Lynche [AI9MLY] has been surging in confidence every week but has to be careful that it doesn't eclipse his singing. He has a big personality and in this competition, too little or too much can spell disaster. Casey James [AI9CJA] is the resident singer-songwriter type who plays it safe. Last night, he garnered praise for playing his guitar and being edgy. If Casey keeps it interesting, he is sure to be one of the leading males.
There is no question that Andy Garcia [AI9AGA] can sing, but it's his stage presence that is being called into question. Andy has trouble connecting with the audience on stage and comes off disheveled and shy. If he can be more confident, there are few males who can compete with his singing talents. Lee Dewyze [AI9LDE] is another talented singer with stage issues. Many compare him to season seven winner David Cook, but Dewyze needs to bring confidence to his performances, otherwise he might just lose out.
Aaron Kelly [AI9AKE] has upped the ante in the finals by shedding his weak performances of past. Showing confidence and class last night, he proved that you don't have to be showy to deliver a good performance. As long as Aaron remains true to himself, he should keep himself in the running.
Finally, Tim Urban [AI9TUR] can thank his inclusion in the top 12 after being given a spot in the top 24. Tim used his luck to make it this far, but he must not rest on his laurels. He's had the goodwill vote, but the finals is about solid performances. Tim has to make sure he is taken seriously or the goodwill could run out.
Check out the American Idol Warrants and make your pick which of the top 12 will be eliminated tonight.
Tag(s): AI9SMA, AI9CBO, AI9DBE, AI9PMI, AI9KST, AI9LBR, AI9MLY, AI9CJA, AI9AGA, AI9LDE, AI9AKE, AI9TUR