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the finals -- last two standing
by Steve CrispPublished May. 19, 2009
Views: 155
The last week of American Idol season 8. Two contestants remain. One will earn the title of American Idol and the other will not. Both will most likely go on to amazing fame and fortune, but only one can win. Who will it be?
This week each contestant sings three selections. The first is one which they previously sung on AI and is of their choosing. The second is chosen for them by Simon Fuller, the producer of American Idol. And the third is this year's Idol theme song written especially for this season. So here we go...
Round One - Contestant's Choice
1. Adam Lambert: Mad World by Gary Jules. The first time he performed this song, it was haunting. This time was even more so. As before, he exhibited perfect pitch and control over every note. He was backed up by excellent staging. And again, he not only sung the part, he was the part. Stunning.
2. Kris Allen: Ain't No Sunshine by Bill Withers. Very nice minor chord progression that built as the song went on. Great dynamics. But why does he feel like he always has to go into falsetto? It isn't necessary and that last note detracted from what was an excellent performance.
Round Two - Simon Fuller's Choice
1. Adam Lambert: Change Is Gonna Come by Sam Cooke. A classic song that he sang even better than the original. And that's not an easy thing to do. Many have covered that tune and failed to measure up to the great Sam Cooke. Adam challenged it and won. I am just amazed that a set of human vocal chords can hit and sustain some of the notes he reaches.
2. Kris Allen: What's Going On by Marvin Gaye. Flat on the low registers. And it is clear that he has not one clue about what that song was about or the time to which it referred, It is a song of angst and confusion which Kris tried to pop up. Bad decision.
Round Three - No Boundaries by Kara DioGuardia et. al.
1. Adam Lambert: These Idol songs are generally pathetic and this one was no different. But he nailed it. He took a mediocre song and made it come alive. Great orchestration complimented his vocals perfectly.
2. Kris Allen: Rushed, pitchy, and I think he might have either missed a word or moved the mic so far away that it did not pick it up. That song was way too big for his range as well.
Over 100,000 potential American Idols tried out. A bit more than 100 made the cut. That was pared to the final 13. And the one left standing, the one who by far deserves the title over any other contestant, not only this year, but in the eight seasons of American idol is...
Adam Lambert.
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I know Adam will do fine with his career without winning AI. I did text vote for Kris 6 times. I think Kris need the AI win for his "resume" more than Adam does. I can't wait until tomorrow night. The 2 hour show should be fun.
GOLO member since August 27, 2009
May 19, 2009 11:44 p.m.
GOLO member since March 12, 2008
May 20, 2009 6:19 a.m.
I agree that Kris doesn't seem as 'strong' of a singer/performer, but I really like his voice. I think he'll find his strength over time and through experience. I think he'll go pretty far in life. He's definitely not afraid of the stage!
GOLO member since July 18, 2007
May 20, 2009 6:59 a.m.
GOLO member since March 30, 2009
May 20, 2009 8:32 a.m.
I completely agree.
And Kara DioGuardi's comment about his performance and how he could sing meaningful songs and have people pay attention -- showed me she didn't have a clue about that song either!
Otherwise I think they both did quite well, but I am an Adam fan all the way! I just think he is amazing -- his singing and his style! I just hope he ends up fronting a band and I hope it's the right band -- if so ... the sky will be the limit! And I'll be buying a bunch of new cd's! :)
GOLO member since June 10, 2008
May 20, 2009 12:57 p.m.
GOLO member since January 12, 2009
May 20, 2009 5:14 p.m.
GOLO member since August 3, 2007
May 20, 2009 6:49 p.m.
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