American Idol Top 4 Idol Chatter and Idle Chatter

[Tatania]

Violin but I also perform on some viola too. I LOVE the viola! Are you a string person/teacher? I teach 4/5 and a day of lessons at the high school. I'm in 5 buildings-one each day!

I got my music degree in Germany and after a few years of being Principal Viola in the Essen Chamber orchestra and a member of the Dusseldorf String Quartet I moved back to Vancouver and successfuly auditioned for the Vancouver Symphony. Besides that, I also used to teach violin/viola about 10 hours a week but I burnt out and quit teaching 7 years ago (was also a single parent and needed to spend more time with my son).
What you're doing is SO important though because kids today would never be exposed to the beauty of classical music and the incredible "instrument" that an orchestra is without having a chance to do it in school. Too bad that music programs are the first thing cut in school budgets. They are just as important as sports, IMHO.

Adam is lucky he didn't win-that he couldn't be the front man for Queen (at least not for a long while) because if he won, he'd have a long term contract with Idol. Is that at all true?

The contract for the runner-up is also shorter from what I heard. In other words, they can ditch 19 Entertainment after a year or something like that.

I think he also has a point that the earlier seasons were about finding raw talent and later seasons were finding people with failed record deals looking for another big break. I liked this show better when it was a bunch of amateurs competing. Now you still have those along with people who are professionals (like Adam -- he made his living in a well known musical. That is my idea of pro) competing. It changes the whole feel of the show. This isn't a dig on Adam -- I had the same complaints about Joanna, Carly, MJ, etc. I wish the show would go back to the way it used to be. It is no longer an even playing field.

And putting the season into perspective -- RoF was typical Adam. Alternating pained and 'come-hither' expressions (ya know, the ones that made some of you swoon and some of us shudder ), choreographed moves, and his now 'signature' scream/shriek/wail (take your pick!). I DO think you can extrapolate from that one performance and pretty much know what Adam was all about.

I disagree with this for a few reasons. The first is that already, even Season 1 winner, Kelly Clarkson, had decided to pursue a singing career in high school and started classical training, hoping that music would be her ticket to a college scholarship. She WAS offered a full scholarship but then decided to move to LA and pursue the music business full time (just like Adam). Her breakthrough came on AI and the rest is history. She was not an total amateur. I don't think any of the winners really were.

Personally, I feel that talent competitions - whether that be acting, singing or dancing - should reward the people who have actually worked and practiced the craft. I think it trivializes the professions to suggest you can be the best yet be a total amateur. I worked my butt off, practicing 4 - 8 hours a day from the age of 14 to become a professional musician, so why should a professional singing career demand less? Would you expect an amateur dancer who never had lessons to win “So You Think You Can Dance"? That’s exactly why too many people have the attitude that being in the arts isn’t a “real” job – though that attitude is more prevalent in America than Europe. Singing and acting are very tough jobs and we do kids a disservice by suggesting that all you need is “talent” or having a "dream" to make it in show biz. I was told as a young teen that it’s 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration and that is the truth. It's incredibly hard work, and only a lucky few get picked as kids to became "Disney - type" show stars.


BTW, Kris had also pursued a music career for years. The difference between him and Adam is that Kris couldn’t make a living at it and was ready to give up and move on to something else. Adam could never give up because he couldn’t be anything but a musician – and I know exactly how he feels.

ROF is still my favorite performance because it was the first time Adam took a huge risk and set himself totally apart from the pack. I loved what he did with the song and so did many others. What I extrapolated from that performance was that this guy was a genuine artist – unique, daring, smart, exciting, great showmanship and unbelievable vocal skills. Different strokes as they say..

 

[Tatania]

More BFF love.

Is it me or does Kris look tinier than ever? I adore Kris but Adam overshadows him as far as "star power" goes. he looks the part all the time and is really channelling Elvis here.

From Rolling Stone about the Queen rumours:

After Adam Lambert’s killer performance with Queen on Wednesday night’s season finale of American Idol, rumors flew that he had already been offered a job singing with the band. That’s slightly premature, according to the band’s guitarist, Brian May. “Amongst all that furor, there wasn’t really a quiet moment to talk,” May tells Rolling Stone in an e-mail interview. “But [drummer Roger Taylor] and I are definitely hoping to have a meaningful conversation with him at some point. It’s not like we, as Queen, would rush into coalescing with another singer just like that. It isn’t that easy. But I’d certainly like to work with Adam. That is one amazing instrument he has there.”

May, whose band recently ended a four-year-long partnership with singer Paul Rodgers, is comfortable with Idol as a launching point for the careers of rock singers. “You’d have to define ‘legitimate’ first,” he writes. “The long-term answer has to be that, if you have enough talent and enough will to succeed, you will get there by whatever route presents itself. Once you have scaled the castle walls, with the sword in your hand, it matters little
how you got there. I’ve not always been positive about shows like this, but there is no doubt that it offers a door to some real genuine talent along the way.”

“Both those boys are well worthy of big success,” May continues, in regard to Lambert and Idol winner Kris Allen. “So it’s pointless for someone like me to stand on the sidelines jeering. I’m confident Adam will make great use of this wonderful opportunity. I hope I’m there to see it.”

http://www.rollingstone.com/rockdai...s-american-idol-adam-lambert-as-new-frontman/


Yesterday's iTunes stats. AI is dominating the downloads - so 19 Entertainment must be thrilled.

Adam Lambert Video Favorites - iTunes
Kris Allen Video Favorites - iTunes

1. “Heartless” by Kris Allen
2. “Mad World” (Final) by Adam Lambert
3. “A Change is Gonna Come” by Adam Lambert
5. “Mad World” by Adam Lambert
7. “Lionel Richie Medley by Lionel Richie and Danny Gokey
9. “The Tracks of My Tears” by Adam Lambert
10. “Ain’t No Sunshine” (Final) by Kris Allen
11. “No Boundaries” by Kris Allen
12. “No Boundaries” by Adam Lambert
13.”One by Adam Lambert
14. “I Can’t Get No Satisfaction” by Adam Lambert
15. “Ring of Fire” by Adam Lambert
17. “Cryin” by Adam Lambert
18. “Slow Ride” by Adam Lambert and Allison Iraheta
20. “Whole Lotta Love” by Adam Lambert
21. “Feeling Good” by Adam Lambert
22. “So What” by by Top 13
24. “If I Can’t Have You” by Adam Lambert
25. “Born to be Wild” by Adam Lambert

The rest of the Top 100 after the JUMP…


26. “What’s Going On” by Kris Allen
27. “Apologize” by Kris Allen
28. “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Kris Allen
29. “Play the Funky Music” by Adam Lambert
30. “Falling Slowly” by Kris Allen
32. “Don’t Stop Believing” by the Idols
33. “No Boundaries” by Kris Allen, American Idol Winner
36. “Black or White” by Adam Lambert
45. “Shake Your Body Down to the Ground” by the Idols
46. “She Works Hard for the Money” by Kris Allen
47. “To Make You Feel My Love” by Kris Allen
50. “Renegade” by Danny Gokey and Kris Allen
52. “Man in the Mirror” by Kris Allen
54. “You Are So Beautiful” by Danny Gokey
56. “Come Together” by Kris Allen
63. “The Way You Look Tonight” by Kris Allen
68. “I’m Yours” by the Idols
72. “How Sweet it is” by Kris Allen
75. “Alone” by Allison Iraheta
94. “Cry Baby” by Allison Iraheta

 

[travelmel]

Personally, I feel that talent competitions - whether that be acting, singing or dancing - should reward the people who have actually worked and practiced the craft. I think it trivializes the professions to suggest you can be the best yet be a total amateur. I worked my butt off, practicing 4 - 8 hours a day from the age of 14 to become a professional musician, so why should a professional singing career demand less? Would you expect an amateur dancer who never had lessons to win “So You Think You Can Dance"? That’s exactly why too many people have the attitude that being in the arts isn’t a “real” job – though that attitude is more prevalent in America than Europe. Singing and acting are very tough jobs and we do kids a disservice by suggesting that all you need is “talent” or having a "dream" to make it in show biz. I was told as a young teen that it’s 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration and that is the truth. It's incredibly hard work, and only a lucky few get picked as kids to became "Disney - type" show stars.

Everything you said was so well said! Thank you for articulating that for me.

Yesterday's iTunes stats. AI is dominating the downloads - so 19 Entertainment must be thrilled.

Adam Lambert Video Favorites - iTunes
Kris Allen Video Favorites - iTunes

1. “Heartless” by Kris Allen
2. “Mad World” (Final) by Adam Lambert
3. “A Change is Gonna Come” by Adam Lambert5. “Mad World” by Adam Lambert
7. “Lionel Richie Medley by Lionel Richie and Danny Gokey
9. “The Tracks of My Tears” by Adam Lambert
10. “Ain’t No Sunshine” (Final) by Kris Allen
11. “No Boundaries” by Kris Allen
12. “No Boundaries” by Adam Lambert
13.”One by Adam Lambert
14. “I Can’t Get No Satisfaction” by Adam Lambert
15. “Ring of Fire” by Adam Lambert
17. “Cryin” by Adam Lambert
18. “Slow Ride” by Adam Lambert and Allison Iraheta
20. “Whole Lotta Love” by Adam Lambert
21. “Feeling Good” by Adam Lambert
22. “So What” by by Top 13
24. “If I Can’t Have You” by Adam Lambert
25. “Born to be Wild” by Adam Lambert

Nice!

Thank you so much for finding those quotes from Queen's Brian May. I had heard Adam say that he had a few offers.... I wish he'd come out and tell us what they were just so we could chat about it. I realize the need for hush hush but it'd be fun to know, wouldn't it????

EDIT: Oh yea... and I totally loved Kris Allen's version of Heartless (And hard for the money for that matter). It was really, REALLY good and made me actually like the song. He did a great job. Props to him for getting the number one spot on the down-low(ds).

 

[damo]

Everything you said was so well said! Thank you for articulating that for me.



Nice!

Thank you so much for finding those quotes from Queen's Brian May. I had heard Adam say that he had a few offers.... I wish he'd come out and tell us what they were just so we could chat about it. I realize the need for hush hush but it'd be fun to know, wouldn't it????

EDIT: Oh yea... and I totally loved Kris Allen's version of Heartless (And hard for the money for that matter). It was really, REALLY good and made me actually like the song. He did a great job. Props to him for getting the number one spot on the down-low(ds).

It will be interesting to see which one of Sony's labels the new kids are assigned to. Jordin Sparks is Arista, David Cook is RCA, David A is Zomba, Carrie Underwood is Arista Nashville, Fantasia is Arista.

 

[mandy200587]

Kelly is still under RCA. I think Allison will be signed with Jive, that's more the label I can see her under. Danny maybe under Arista.

 

[damo]

Kelly is still under RCA. I think Allison will be signed with Jive, that's more the label I can see her under. Danny maybe under Arista.

Mandy, where do you think Kris will go? Arista too or RCA like DC and Kelly? And how about Adam?

 

[mandy200587]

Mandy, where do you think Kris will go? Arista too or RCA like DC and Kelly? And how about Adam?

Hmm Kris will probably go RCA along with Adam. Danny might even go J Records.

 

[TruBlu]

I almost can't believe I'm saying this.... Adam did something that DC didn't....




Made me buy tickets to the tour!!!!!




I cant' wait! I'm surprising my sister with one for her birthday. She's a Kris fan (but I forgive her ). We are going to have so much fun!!!

 

[travelmel]

I almost can't believe I'm saying this.... Adam did something that DC didn't....




Made me buy tickets to the tour!!!!!




I cant' wait! I'm surprising my sister with one for her birthday. She's a Kris fan (but I forgive her ). We are going to have so much fun!!!

Have fun! I'm so jealous! I live in Portland where the tour is kicking off but will be out of town that weekend. NOT ONLY THAT but hte Twilight's cast is showing up in town for a game of "Vampire Baseball" for charity that weekend as well and I will not be here. It's tragedy, I tell you. Of Shakesperean (SP?) proportion.

 

[Robinrs]

I almost can't believe I'm saying this.... Adam did something that DC didn't....




Made me buy tickets to the tour!!!!!




I cant' wait! I'm surprising my sister with one for her birthday. She's a Kris fan (but I forgive her ). We are going to have so much fun!!!

How awesome!! I know you and your sister truly need a break. Have a great time!!

 

[TruBlu]

Our preacher worked American Idol into his sermon this morning. He is a Danny fan, but thinks that Adam is the best singer - just not his type of music. He asked who voted for Kris and made a joke about all the young girls raising their hands.

 

[TruBlu]

Have fun! I'm so jealous! I live in Portland where the tour is kicking off but will be out of town that weekend. NOT ONLY THAT but hte Twilight's cast is showing up in town for a game of "Vampire Baseball" for charity that weekend as well and I will not be here. It's tragedy, I tell you. Of Shakesperean (SP?) proportion.

I think I'd change my trip!

How awesome!! I know you and your sister truly need a break. Have a great time!!

Thanks! We really do. I can't wait!

It's funny to me that I complained about this being my least favorite season, and it ends up being the only one I've paid to see live. I guess I have to take all those complaints back. But, I don't mind admitting when I'm wrong.

 

[ShuisFan584]

It's funny to me that I complained about this being my least favorite season, and it ends up being the only one I've paid to see live. I guess I have to take all those complaints back. But, I don't mind admitting when I'm wrong.

Oh you know it's only your least favorite because Adam didn't win. I have to say that it definitely had the most disappointing ending, but it had to be one of my favorite seasons. Adam has easily become my favorite contestant of any season.

I have gone to all the AI Tours since Season 2, except last season. But I think this is the most excited I've ever been for the AI Tour! We're going to the one in Atlantic City this year which should be fun...plus we're on the floor in the center only a few rows back. I can't wait!!

 

[Nancy]

I enjoyed this whole season, I think this was the best for overall talent. There were a few clunkers in there but lots and lots of talent..and not all the same either, very diverse.

Last season was good thanks in part to DC

But this season was one where they could have said over and over "this is the most talented group of singers" and it would have held up.

 

[TruBlu]

Do they change up the show any when they are in a contestants home state? I like Anoop and all, but I don't want him taking up any of my Adam time.

 

[TruBlu]

Oh you know it's only your least favorite because Adam didn't win.

 

[ShuisFan584]

But this season was one where they could have said over and over "this is the most talented group of singers" and it would have held up.

Did they even say that this season? I don't remember them ever saying that. I have to agree that this is the one season where I would agree to that.

I remember they used to say that every season, and with some seasons it was like "are you serious?" I remember season 3 (worst season IMO) they would constantly say it. I can't even think of one person that season who was somewhat good. The only person I saw capable of winning was Latoya, and even she wasn't overly impressive.

 

[TruBlu]

Last season was good thanks in part to DC

But this season was one where they could have said over and over "this is the most talented group of singers" and it would have held up.

I think you are right - although I had a lot of favorites last season, too. (Jason, MJ, Carly, Archie, and DC)

But, I do think this season was really stacked. And - funny - this is the one season where they DIDN'T say that over and over.

 

[Simba's Mom]

Personally, I feel that talent competitions - whether that be acting, singing or dancing - should reward the people who have actually worked and practiced the craft. I think it trivializes the professions to suggest you can be the best yet be a total amateur. I worked my butt off, practicing 4 - 8 hours a day from the age of 14 to become a professional musician, so why should a professional singing career demand less? Would you expect an amateur dancer who never had lessons to win “So You Think You Can Dance"? That’s exactly why too many people have the attitude that being in the arts isn’t a “real” job – though that attitude is more prevalent in America than Europe.

I just wanted to say thanks for this explanation. DS is a professional musician (trumpet performance), just graduated from college and I always wondered why he scoffed at American Idol. You explained it so well, now I understand. BTW, his first musical job after graduation is taking him to Vancoover

 

[Robinrs]

I disagree with this for a few reasons. The first is that already, even Season 1 winner, Kelly Clarkson, had decided to pursue a singing career in high school and started classical training, hoping that music would be her ticket to a college scholarship. She WAS offered a full scholarship but then decided to move to LA and pursue the music business full time (just like Adam). Her breakthrough came on AI and the rest is history. She was not an total amateur. I don't think any of the winners really were.

Personally, I feel that talent competitions - whether that be acting, singing or dancing - should reward the people who have actually worked and practiced the craft. I think it trivializes the professions to suggest you can be the best yet be a total amateur. I worked my butt off, practicing 4 - 8 hours a day from the age of 14 to become a professional musician, so why should a professional singing career demand less? Would you expect an amateur dancer who never had lessons to win “So You Think You Can Dance"? That’s exactly why too many people have the attitude that being in the arts isn’t a “real” job – though that attitude is more prevalent in America than Europe. Singing and acting are very tough jobs and we do kids a disservice by suggesting that all you need is “talent” or having a "dream" to make it in show biz. I was told as a young teen that it’s 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration and that is the truth. It's incredibly hard work, and only a lucky few get picked as kids to became "Disney - type" show stars.


BTW, Kris had also pursued a music career for years. The difference between him and Adam is that Kris couldn’t make a living at it and was ready to give up and move on to something else. Adam could never give up because he couldn’t be anything but a musician – and I know exactly how he feels.

Wow, amen to all of that.

The purpose of AI is to take people with talent to a new level. That level includes a recording contract and a fan base that they can make a living on for years. To get to the point that you're good enough to get that far takes YEARS of practice and training. People who sing in their shower are not the only amateurs, people who've been fighting to make a living at music for years are also able to use AI as a vehicle.

My problem is with the pros who had contracts with the production company or with the staff. It causes bias and should not be allowed. It's a form of nepotism that gets very obvious as the show progresses.

Understand that first and foremost, AI is not as much a vehicle to make people stars as it is a program to make money for a network. They make sure they have a balance to keep their audiences happy, they know what creates buzz and they know what brings their audiences to watch and to vote. Will they throw people under the bus to accomplish this? Heck yes! And lots of people (CLAY, Taylor) are still smarting from it.