American Idol, Season 5 **Official Discussion Thread** Part 2

[tarmand]

I have said it before and I'll say it again for those of you who weren't listening the first time. Ignorance, be it honest ignorance or not, is not something I will ever idolize. I don't care if this girl is acting ignorant or if she is sincerely ignorant - it's not attractive. Why would I waste my time and energy being jealous of someone with the brain power of a twig when there are beautiful, intelligent women out there worthy of my envy. Actually, I am pretty happy with my life and accomplishments and don't really need to be jealous of anyone. Would I like to be prettier, thinner, richer, smarter? Heck yes, but am I the ugliest, fattest, poorest, dumbest person on earth? No. So I guess I'm doing just fine.

Papa Deuce, if your true goal is to be a great role model for your daughters, please teach them that intelligence will take them where they need to go long after they lose the cute figure.

 

[Robinrs]

Anybody else read the article in TV Guide about the contestants? I was surprised by two things. First, Elliott Yamin is 90 percent deaf in one ear. He apparently had several ear surgeries as a kid. I'd say he was doing great despite his handicap!

Actually it may NOT be a handicap when it comes to singing. When you sing you hear something totally different than what others hear because you hear it from both ears. Ever notice that some singers hold one ear when singing to hear themselves? My teacher told me years ago to close up one ear and you'll have a better idea of what OTHERS hear!

I'd say he does great no matter what!

 

[Jeanny]

I so dislike the AI background singers! You sometimes have to strain to hear the contestant through the caterwauling done by these people.

ITA... they drown out the contestants. A LOT of the songs would be better without them

What part of background don't they understand??

 

[Robinrs]

I am not a Kelli fan but I think it is terrible to be so judgemental of her. None of us know her. We have no idea what she is really like. Maybe this is who she is. My girls don't need other women to tell them how to be. I would hope they have minds of their own. I will give her credit for the way she seems to have lived her life. With all the hardships she has faced I think she seems like a very nice person. She could be out robbing banks or other crimes. Sounding niave is not a crime. All the idols seem nice. Lets not personally attack them. It's a singing contest.

This is a wonderful sentiment but I disagree that this is a "singing" contest. This is for the American Idol and as reiterated over and over in the auditions they're looking for the "whole package", not just the voice.

Celebs are subject to public criticism because they are public people. It comes with the territory. So do million dollar paychecks and the chance to live like a king, in ways we don't have the option to do. If you cannot stand the heat, do NOT become one.

Somehow I can't imagine her robbing banks... ... and just having a hard life doesn't give her just 2 options in life, this or that.

And as for sound naive is not a crime,... I'm sorry, it should be punishable by stoning...

 

[FionaLovesShrek]

Actually it may NOT be a handicap when it comes to singing. When you sing you hear something totally different than what others hear because you hear it from both ears. Ever notice that some singers hold one ear when singing to hear themselves? My teacher told me years ago to close up one ear and you'll have a better idea of what OTHERS hear!

I'd say he does great no matter what!

I agree!

 

[Robinrs]

I have said it before and I'll say it again for those of you who weren't listening the first time. Ignorance, be it honest ignorance or not, is not something I will ever idolize. I don't care if this girl is acting ignorant or if she is sincerely ignorant - it's not attractive. Why would I waste my time and energy being jealous of someone with the brain power of a twig when there are beautiful, intelligent women out there worthy of my envy. Actually, I am pretty happy with my life and accomplishments and don't really need to be jealous of anyone. Would I like to be prettier, thinner, richer, smarter? Heck yes, but am I the ugliest, fattest, poorest, dumbest person on earth? No. So I guess I'm doing just fine.

Papa Deuce, if your true goal is to be a great role model for your daughters, please teach them that intelligence will take them where they need to go long after they lose the cute figure.

OMG, ITA!!!!

 

[jaimee1024]

I'm not a huge fan of Kellie, but in her defense I must say that not being "worldly" does not mean one is not intelligent. If indeed her persona is an act then she is a lot "smarter" than you all are giving her credit for because it is clearly working in her favor. But if it's not an act (which I don't believe it is) then she is simply a product of her environment. This does not make her dumb or ignorant. She is inexperienced in life and has never seen much outside her small hometown. I remember her saying early on that she had never even sung with musical accompamient (sp?) before. Under those circumstances, I think she's doing great...especially last night. But I don't think that means she should win the competition.

 

[dturner]

Interesting.........I haven't read anything anywhere about what Nigel has to say today................we always get something from him - anyone seen anything????

 

[Shugardrawers]

a few comments:1. You'd think Freddy Mercury could have afforded a trip to the othodontist...

I've read that Barbara Streisand won't have a nose job because it would change the tone of her voice. Is it possible the placement of your teeth affects voice as well? I've noticed a lot of singers with bad teeth so maybe that's one reason , though I can't say I noticed it with Freddie Mercury.

 

[ChrisnSteph]

Here's my update!

I didn't get into the taped performances, but I did get to see the dress rehearsal. For those in the L.A. area, if you don't have tickets but want to try and get in, there is a stand-by line. There are tons of people though, so get there early if you want a shot at getting in. There are alot of people who have tickets and don't show up, so they do take people from the line to fill the seats. I didn't get any pictures because you weren't allowed to bring cell phones or cameras into the studio.

We saw everything during the rehearsal that is seen during the taped show, minus the judges. Ryan Seacrest was also there and is very friendly. He was interacting a lot with the audience. He looks so short in person! There is also a lot of sound checking and adjustment with the lighting going on. Katherine had to sing her song twice because of some sound issues. She sounded more strained on the second take, and that is what you saw during the song recaps they do at the end of the show. I think she sounded better when I watched it on t.v. then during rehearsal. Ace also sounded better in person. He looked like he tried so hard up there on that stage, and seemed pretty confident. Really, the band drowns so many of the singers out. Taylor was just so much fun to see in person! Talk about entertaining! You just couldn't sit in your seat - and he did nail the microphone kick in rehearsal! That guy is made for the stage and for singing. Another one that I felt was too drowned out by the band. Then there's Bucky - ! He looked so hot yesterday - in a cute/bad boy kind of way! He loves his fans and likes to interact with the audience, but you don't see that during the show. I can tell you that there were a LOT of Bucky fans in the audience! I also think he sounds better in person than on tv. And yes you could understand EVERY word he was singing! Chris sounded awesome, but the lights were very distracting and made it hard to actually watch him on stage. I think they toned it down a bit for the show, but even watching on tv it was obnoxious. He sings very loud and though my dh like his performance alot, I thought it sounded like he was yelling too much into the microphone. I kept looking at Chris, going "ouch"! Loved the heavy eyeliner though. He is super hot, that's all I got to say! He also had a lot of fans in the audience! Kellie looked very scary on stage. The whole thing was very odd, but I think she sounded better on tv than she did during the rehearsal. She also came across very confident and not nearly as ditzy as she seems on tv. She didn't have as many fans in the audience as you would think, seeing how popular she is. Paris sounded awesome. Her voice really rose above the bands, and so did Elliott. It didn't really come across that way on tv though. Her whole look was just wrong in every way though! She seemed a little stiff on stage. It was a fun time, but I didn't get to meet any of the performers. They gave autographs and signed shirts here and there, but there were so many people that I didn't even try. Maybe next time!

 

[MrsMud]

OK, Chris is my favorite, but he screwed up in a MAJOR WAY last night ( if he wants to win) . People vote not just for the performer, but also the performance. AI is mainstream Amercia. People like stuff that they are familiar with. I think he could have chosen one of MANY ( but NOT WWRY or We Are the Champions ) great Queen songs that people know. How about "I'm in Love with My Car"? Simon was DEAD ON CORRECT..... Last night was Chris' night to blow everybody else's doors in, and he chose not to.

Anyway, it is all irrelevant, IMO. I don't think Chris WANTS to win AI. He's getting a deal with somebody, somewhere, and won't be locked in by a dumb AI "forced down his throat" CD. He's PERFECT for the genre he wants to do.

I think Chris can afford to laugh off anybody's suggestions.... he's gonna be just fine.

I ABSOLUTELY AGREE!!!!
My husband and I were having the same discussion. I love Chris, but have not agreed with his song choices several times. Then I came to the realization that it is waaaayyy better for Chris to NOT win this show. He would only be forced to do some cheesy mainstream pop CD that is SOoo not him... a la Bo Bice.
Chris is not trying to win AI, he is auditioning for dozens of rock bands at the same time. What better exposure than that? Someone will pick him up in a heartbeat! I still love him!

 

[Tina]

I've read that Barbara Streisand won't have a nose job because it would change the tone of her voice. Is it possible the placement of your teeth affects voice as well? I've noticed a lot of singers with bad teeth so maybe that's one reason , though I can't say I noticed it with Freddie Mercury.

I remember reading something to that effect years ago. Freddie was very embarrassed by his teeth, but didn't want to risk altering his voice. The reason he grew the mustache after awhile was to try to distract from his teeth.

 

[cats mom]

I was going to post what I thought about yesterday's show... but I just read wvrevy's post and I pretty much agreed with his comments on all the performances except one.

So I'll save all that typing and say ditto
EXCEPT for the review of Elliott.
Then I say "are you crazy?!"

No way do I see Elliott ending up as THE AI.
He just does not have that "it" factor, but the guy can sing!
That was one tough song and I thought he did a really good job!

*Can't remember who said it now... but I agree that if Chris is really looking at all his options (and I have no doubt that he is) winning AI may not be the best thing for him career-wise.
Go figure.

OK just read the last few comments - so edited to add:
*I agree with Papa Deuce about Chris.

Thanks for the report ChrisnSteph!
Sounds like being there is a lot of fun.
I'm glad you were able to go.

 

[dturner]

Here's my update!

I didn't get into the taped performances, but I did get to see the dress rehearsal. For those in the L.A. area, if you don't have tickets but want to try and get in, there is a stand-by line. There are tons of people though, so get there early if you want a shot at getting in. There are alot of people who have tickets and don't show up, so they do take people from the line to fill the seats. I didn't get any pictures because you weren't allowed to bring cell phones or cameras into the studio.

We saw everything during the rehearsal that is seen during the taped show, minus the judges. Ryan Seacrest was also there and is very friendly. He was interacting a lot with the audience. He looks so short in person! There is also a lot of sound checking and adjustment with the lighting going on. Katherine had to sing her song twice because of some sound issues. She sounded more strained on the second take, and that is what you saw during the song recaps they do at the end of the show. I think she sounded better when I watched it on t.v. then during rehearsal. Ace also sounded better in person. He looked like he tried so hard up there on that stage, and seemed pretty confident. Really, the band drowns so many of the singers out. Taylor was just so much fun to see in person! Talk about entertaining! You just couldn't sit in your seat - and he did nail the microphone kick in rehearsal! That guy is made for the stage and for singing. Another one that I felt was too drowned out by the band. Then there's Bucky - ! He looked so hot yesterday - in a cute/bad boy kind of way! He loves his fans and likes to interact with the audience, but you don't see that during the show. I can tell you that there were a LOT of Bucky fans in the audience! I also think he sounds better in person than on tv. And yes you could understand EVERY word he was singing! Chris sounded awesome, but the lights were very distracting and made it hard to actually watch him on stage. I think they toned it down a bit for the show, but even watching on tv it was obnoxious. He sings very loud and though my dh like his performance alot, I thought it sounded like he was yelling too much into the microphone. I kept looking at Chris, going "ouch"! Loved the heavy eyeliner though. He is super hot, that's all I got to say! He also had a lot of fans in the audience! Kellie looked very scary on stage. The whole thing was very odd, but I think she sounded better on tv than she did during the rehearsal. She also came across very confident and not nearly as ditzy as she seems on tv. She didn't have as many fans in the audience as you would think, seeing how popular she is. Paris sounded awesome. Her voice really rose above the bands, and so did Elliott. It didn't really come across that way on tv though. Her whole look was just wrong in every way though! She seemed a little stiff on stage. It was a fun time, but I didn't get to meet any of the performers. They gave autographs and signed shirts here and there, but there were so many people that I didn't even try. Maybe next time!

I loved the leather jacket Bucky was wearing last night - you lucky girl, you got to see Bucky in person!!! Glad to hear Bucky has a lot of fans in the audience, sometimes it's hard to tell.

 

[Sandy V.]

Papa Deuce, if your true goal is to be a great role model for your daughters, please teach them that intelligence will take them where they need to go long after they lose the cute figure.

Amen!!!

Beauty fades, but stupid is forever . . .

(Not saying that Kellie is stupid, but her behavior drives me nuts!)

 

[wvrevy]

I was going to post what I thought about yesterday's show... but I just read wvrevy's post and I pretty much agreed with his comments on all the performances except one.

So I'll save all that typing and say ditto
EXCEPT for the review of Elliott.
Then I say "are you crazy?!"

No way do I see Elliott ending up as THE AI.
He just does not have that "it" factor, but the guy can sing!
That was one tough song and I thought he did a really good job!

Can't remember who said it now... but I agree that if Chris is really looking at all his options (and I have no doubt that he is) winning AI may not be the best thing for him career-wise.
Go figure.

1 - I did admit to being crazy right there in the review

2 - I guess I just don't "get" the Elliott-love thing. I mean, I like hobbits as much as the next guy, but you have to admit, the whole googly-eyed Amish thing is a little distracting. But regardless of his looks, I just can't stand his voice. The ever-present vibrato is annoying, and while he's usually (not always) on key, there is more to being a singer than just avoiding sour notes. Can you honestly imagine hearing him on the radio? I just can't (but then, I wouldn't be caught dead listening to the type of music I think he would produce, so maybe I'm wrong on that). In my opinion, there are at least five better singers in this competition (Taylor, Kat, Chris, Bucky, and - occassionally - Paris). I think he is only clearly better than Ace, and that only because Ace insists on singing that goofy falsetto all the time.

I could actually see myself listening to the music of most of the competitors, save those two (Kellie could put out good country, given the right songs). I just can't see ever voluntarily listening to anything that he would release. Too many other "funky white boys" out there that do it much better than he does (Justin Timberlake jumps immediately to mind...and I can't stand Justin Timberlake).

 

[Shugardrawers]

Here's my update!

I didn't get into the taped performances, but I did get to see the dress rehearsal. For those in the L.A. area, if you don't have tickets but want to try and get in, there is a stand-by line. There are tons of people though, so get there early if you want a shot at getting in. There are alot of people who have tickets and don't show up, so they do take people from the line to fill the seats. I didn't get any pictures because you weren't allowed to bring cell phones or cameras into the studio.

We saw everything during the rehearsal that is seen during the taped show, minus the judges. Ryan Seacrest was also there and is very friendly. He was interacting a lot with the audience. He looks so short in person! There is also a lot of sound checking and adjustment with the lighting going on. Katherine had to sing her song twice because of some sound issues. She sounded more strained on the second take, and that is what you saw during the song recaps they do at the end of the show. I think she sounded better when I watched it on t.v. then during rehearsal. Ace also sounded better in person. He looked like he tried so hard up there on that stage, and seemed pretty confident. Really, the band drowns so many of the singers out. Taylor was just so much fun to see in person! Talk about entertaining! You just couldn't sit in your seat - and he did nail the microphone kick in rehearsal! That guy is made for the stage and for singing. Another one that I felt was too drowned out by the band. Then there's Bucky - ! He looked so hot yesterday - in a cute/bad boy kind of way! He loves his fans and likes to interact with the audience, but you don't see that during the show. I can tell you that there were a LOT of Bucky fans in the audience! I also think he sounds better in person than on tv. And yes you could understand EVERY word he was singing! Chris sounded awesome, but the lights were very distracting and made it hard to actually watch him on stage. I think they toned it down a bit for the show, but even watching on tv it was obnoxious. He sings very loud and though my dh like his performance alot, I thought it sounded like he was yelling too much into the microphone. I kept looking at Chris, going "ouch"! Loved the heavy eyeliner though. He is super hot, that's all I got to say! He also had a lot of fans in the audience! Kellie looked very scary on stage. The whole thing was very odd, but I think she sounded better on tv than she did during the rehearsal. She also came across very confident and not nearly as ditzy as she seems on tv. She didn't have as many fans in the audience as you would think, seeing how popular she is. Paris sounded awesome. Her voice really rose above the bands, and so did Elliott. It didn't really come across that way on tv though. Her whole look was just wrong in every way though! She seemed a little stiff on stage. It was a fun time, but I didn't get to meet any of the performers. They gave autographs and signed shirts here and there, but there were so many people that I didn't even try. Maybe next time!

Next time??? You are going again? I hate you.

 

[ChrisnSteph]

Next time??? You are going again? I hate you.

I'm going to get on the wait list again and hope for tickets next year. I had been on the list since last season for the tickets I got!

 

[palmtreegirl]

2 - I guess I just don't "get" the Elliott-love thing.

I've liked him in the past but I thought he was terrible last night. I was really shocked at how many people liked his performance, including the judges. :


Side note- I like Kellie.

 

[dturner]

Well, Nigel says that the "one to bite the dust" will be the one with the lowest votes.

Now, is he giving us a clue - did someone originally pick "another one bites the dust" or is he just being funny?????

Nothing said about tonight being a shocker like last week.

That worries me - please don't let it be Bucky!!