Robin Lee Hatcher's Write Thinking

idol 7: from 3 to 2

Well, we are down to it now. The Internet has been buzzing for quite some while with expectations that it will be a David-David finale. Tonight we will find out if the prognosticators were right. Of course, by the time I post this to my blog, quite a bit of the country will already know the answer. Here in the Mountain Time Zone, we get the show by tape delay.

Fantasia: Hmm. I would not have called in my vote for that performance. Simon looked like he wished he'd never voted for her either. 'Nough said.

They brought out each of the contestants one at a time and showed their visits home and their AI journeys. Each one of them were brought to tears by the crowds (and no doubt many weeks of stress and exhaustion).

And the final two are ... David and David. Well done, guys.

Syesha, I rooted for you a lot early on, wanting you to do well. I'm sure that you will continue pursuing your dream and will do well. Lots of luck!

a couple fun video interviews with Jason Castro

I really missed Jason tonight, so I was tickled to see these two video interviews from Entertainment Weekly. I know. I know. But I really wanted him to win.

-rlh-

PS I voted for David C tonight.

idol 7: the three perform

Paula chose for David A. to sing And So It Goes to show off his vocals. I didn't know the song, but I thought Paula made a great choice. It did show off his vocals. In fact, I liked it better than I have many recent performances.

Randy chose for Syesha to sing If I Ain't Got You. Very pretty. I wasn't blown away, but it was lovely.

Simon chose for David C. to sing The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face. Good choice, Simon. Great to have him sing something made so famous by a girl. And David rose to the challenge. Man, the end of it gave me goose pimples. I kid you not!!

Round 1, IMHO, goes to David C. with David A. really tight against his heels. Syesha is a really close third.

David A. chose to sing With You for his second song. I liked it okay at best. Like Randy and Simon, it didn't seem like a great fit for him. Simon said it was a bit like a chihuahua trying to be a lion. LOL!

Syesha chose to sing Fever. (Was she being just a little too chatty?) She tried to sex it up, dancing around a chair. I liked her more restrained version, but wasn't crazy about the chair dance. None of the judges liked it much, all of them feeling it was a bad choice of song for this point in the competition.

David C.'s personal choice for his second song was Dare You to Move. Hmm. Didn't know the song, didn't care for the performance. Randy thought it was pitchy. Paula said the song just couldn't fit into 90 seconds. Simon thought it was just okay.

Round 2 wasn't as good as Round 1. I think I would put David A. in a slight lead, but pretty much they were all three just okay.

The final round of songs were chosen by the producers. (And, after listening to the final three performances, I would say the producers did a very poor job of selecting songs to end the evening.)

David A. kicks it off with Longer. Nice but none of the judges cared for the song.

For Syesha, the producers chose Hit Me Up. Very contemporary and uptempo, but I wasn't crazy about it. The judges were lukewarm about it. Like me.

David C.'s final song was I Don't Want to Miss a Thing. I liked it okay, but again, not wowed. Simon, however, calls it one of the best songs of all time and declares David C. the winner for the night.

Round 3: I would give the edge to David C. for this round as well with David A. right behind him. I agree with Simon that David C. takes the night.

If voters go by tonight's performances, it will be a David-David final next week.

-rlh-

a reminder of why I like Jason

I'm still sad this morning that Jason Castro won't be on Idol next week, and so I offer this YouTube video, a studio edition of Over the Rainbow along with great black and white shots of Jason on Idol.

I'll just have to watch the YouTube videos of Jason until he's got an album out.

-rlh-

idol 7: from 4 to 3

Nearly 51 million votes last night and the top three contestants, Ryan told us, all had within 1 million votes of each other. And how, I wondered at the top of the show, would that bode for Jason? Did his fans rise up in protest the moment Simon said, "Pack your bags"? Could be. This is, after all, American Idol.

David A — safe
David C — safe

Stupid phoned in questions. Guest group, Maroon 5. Bo Bice. Amazing how long an hour results show can feel. Thumb twiddling.

And finally the results — Jason goes home. I wish he could have gone out on a higher note. He's talented and original. He said his inexperience was showing last night, and that was true. Also showed he's got wisdom enough to know he doesn't know it all.

Jason, you make an album, I'll buy it. I'm going to miss you on the show a lot, and I confess I don't care as much about who wins Idol now.

idol 7: the 4 perform

Rock & Roll night.

David C. sang Hungry Like a Wolf. I thought it was solid but not anything that made me go, "Wow! I want to hear more like this." Randy and Simon agreed with me. Paula was Paula.

Syesha tackled Tina Turner's Proud Mary. I thought it was just all right. Randy and Paula liked it, but Simon didn't care for it. And I think Syesha has taken some cues from Paula. Super bubbly.

Jason chose to sing I Shot the Sheriff. He was more animated than I've ever seen him — and I'm not sure it was an improvement. Trying too hard perhaps. I've never hesitated to say how much I like this kid, but I did not like this performance. Randy didn't like it. I don't think Paula did either but she babbled about his likability or something. Simon hated it!

David A. sang Stand by Me. Nice job. Not a wow but nice. Definitely the best so far of the night. Randy sort of over-praised him, I think. Paula said her usual stuff. Simon gave tempered praise — plus another jab at Jason's performance.

Overall, the first half hour has been somewhat of a disappointment. Here is hoping the second round of songs prove more of an enjoyment.

David C. came back with Baba O'Riley. A lot better than first round although I think he's done better over the weeks. Randy liked it, Paula rattled around, and Simon welcomed back David Cook.

A Change is Gonna Come is the song Syesha chose for round two. Good choice. She performs it with both restraint and a few big notes. I loved it. And might I say, without sounding too much like Paula, that she looked gorgeous. Randy thought it was overdone. Paula gushed and did a standing O (and brought Syesha to tears). Simon agreed with Paula (which totally destroyed Syesha).

Jason's second song was Mr. Tambourine Man. I had my fingers crossed for a much better round, and I got it. Sort of. On the stool with guitar, Jason was back the way I like him. His voice. His style. And then he forgot some of the lyrics. Bad news. And Simon told him to pack his bags.

David A brought the show to a close with one of my favorites by Elvis, Love Me Tender. But David's version of it was so totally changed in melody that I didn't find much to like. The words were there but not the lovely tune. Judges all loved it. Simon even said David "crushed" the competition tonight.

Hmmm. I have been surprised before, but I think that Jason will go home tomorrow.

What do you think?

-rlh-

idol 7: from 5 to 4

So I'm getting into one of my two torture ... er ... traction devices at the chiropractor, and I told him I just was not ready for Jason to go home, so I hoped the fans over ruled the judges. (By the way, I texted a bunch of votes for him.) The young gal in another device said, "I love Jason too. He's my favorite." And one of the comments on yesterday's post said something like: "I would buy albums by Jason and Brooke, but not David or David." Yes, I think that it is it for me too.

Well, my votes must have been good for something because Jason was the first one over to the sofa. Yea!!! I literally did a shout out! David A was the next one over to the sofa. No surprise there.

Long promo for So You Think You Can Dance that starts in May. Yes, I watch that show too. I guess I'm hooked on these competitions that featured talented young folks reaching for their dreams.

David C was pulled out next. I immediately thought that would mean he was in the bottom two. But I was wrong. He was sent to the sofa.

So Ryan brought out Syesha and Brooke. But we were only at the halfway point in the hour. That meant, in addition to a Neil Diamond performance, we were in for at least 20 minutes of filler. (They really could cut the result show to half an hour now that we're down to so few contestants.)

Natasha Bedingfield was a guest performer. I don't know why she was a guest, but it was enjoyable enough. I, of course, had/have no idea who she is but I guess she's had a few hits and she's British. Afterward, she sat down with the kids and kissed David A on the cheek.

And then we went to the really lame call-in questions. I read that these calls and answers actually happen before the live show. Okay, gotta say that I liked the call from Simon's crush, Tara. They kissed when he was 9 years old. Awww. Wasn't that sweet?

Neil Diamond sang Pretty Amazing Grace, a song that was new to me. I really liked it. Guess I'll have to bop over to ITunes. FYI, the tune is available as a single. The new album, Home Before Dark, which that song is part of, releases on May 6.

The wait was over at last (about five minutes to the hour). And the contestant who is going home tonight was: Brooke. (Lots of tears, as is normal with her.) She seemed to be expecting it. This girl sometimes irritated me with her talking back or over the judges. But she has lots of good qualities and a boatload of talent. I'm sorry to see her go.

Brooke, I'm wishing you much success, and I promise to buy your album when it comes out.

Idol 7: the 5 perform

Somewhere around 15 years ago, I went with some gal pals to Salt Lake City to attend a Neil Diamond concert. I've got to say, it was one of the best live performances I've ever attended. And I say that despite the fact that we were seated in the nosebleed section of the venue, which felt like it was a minimum of a mile high. Anyway, love Mr. Diamond's tunes.

Two songs tonight and no judging until after the second song. Interesting format.

Jason, with guitar, started off the night with Forever in Blue Jeans. I thought it was a perfect song for his style and voice. I liked it a lot.

David C., with guitar, sang Alive. Or maybe it was I'm Alive. Not sure, and I wasn't too crazy about the song. It just didn't ring my chimes nor did his performance. I'm not sure it was wise to go with something so unfamiliar.

Brooke, with guitar, went for I'm a Believer. Hmm. Love the song, but I wasn't crazy about the performance. Despite being a snappy version and lots of smiles, it all felt rather lackluster or something. Not great.

Note: I miss the judge's immediate feedback. Which surprises me a little since sometimes they upset me. And the night feels very rushed, too. Not a good sign when we are only three songs out of ten into the night.

David A. sang Sweet Caroline. It was okay but I'm not wowed.

Syesha was next up with Hello Again. I thought it was lovely though I probably won't remember it next week (if that makes sense).

Time for a quick critique from the judges: Randy didn't say much. Paula really blew it by critiquing Jason's first and second song even though he sang only one, then tried to say she was talking about David C's performance (which made no sense after she said "I thought you sang twice"). Simon ripped into all of them and said they'd better turn it up in their second numbers.

Jason is back, sans guitar, to sing September Morn. I thought he did a great job right up until the last two words. Randy said it was okay. Paula thought it was safe. Simon said he was forgettable. In other words, they were pretty down on him. Still, I'd say he is still my favorite of the night so far. (Nobody has been very inspired.)

David C. returned with his guitar to sing All I Really Need is You. Ho hum. The judges really liked it. Maybe I need my ears cleaned.

Next up was Brooke on the piano for I Am I Said. Good job, Brooke. I liked this. Not my favorite Brooke performance of the season but quite good. Judges love it.

David A. sang America. It's one of those songs that gets an audience on their feet. Changed it up a little, and it worked for him. Judges agreed.

Last up was Syesha with Thank the Lord for the Night Time. Well, well, well. Two weeks in a row, Syesha gave one of my favorite performances. Randy loved it. Paula babbled. Simon liked it but thought she could be in trouble. Hmm. That surprised me.

Wrap-up: Going by the judges' comments alone, Jason could be in the most danger. For me, I think any of them could go home, based on one performance or another. Since there are only five left, it could be a real toss up. I don't think there is a clear front runner as there has been in past years.

Tomorrow should be interesting.

-rlh-

idol 7: from 6 to 5

Results night. The two Davids went straight to the safe couch. No surprise there.

Next out were Brooke and Syesha. Surprise: It was Syesha who went to the danger stool. Funny, I was talking about it with my chiropractor today, and I said, "It could be Syesha who leaves after she had one of her best ever performances. It's happened before."

Next surprise: Carly went to the danger stool and Jason went to the safe couch.

I picked the bottom three last night and only got one right, Carly — and she isn't the one I really expected to be there if there were only two seats.

Both of the bottom two sang their songs from last night. I still didn't like Carly's performance. Too much shouting, too little melody. And I still loved Syesha's performance. (And while Syesha was singing, Carly was off to the side talking the whole time to Ryan. How rude!) I liked that they did this. I always think having the Idols sing after they've been voted off borders on cruel.

And it was Carly who went home. This young woman has a beautiful voice, and it's too bad she never quite connected, personality-wise, with the audience. But who knows what success still awaits her? She definitely has the talent.

Best wishes, Carly!

Idol 7: the 6 perform

I'm late again. Had an HOA meeting, then was on grandma duty, chauffeuring Grandson #2 to and from soccer. Then it was home to the DVR for Andrew Lloyd Weber night. I'm a huge Broadway musical fan, so I was looking forward to seeing how the kids did this week.

---

Syesha came out with One Rock and Roll Too Many. Wow! Way to go Syesha. Hot tonight. Judges loved it too. If only she had a string of performances like this one.

Jason chose to sing Memory. He said in advance he was very nervous. I rather liked it. Not my favorite performance of his, but rather well done. He didn't try to over sing it or power out anything. Randy and Simon were pretty down on him (Randy called it a "train wreck" and Simon thought he "struggled"). I liked it better than they did.

Brooke sang You Must Love Me, and did a false start. (After singing several lines: "Sorry," she says to the band leader. "Could we start over?") Ack! That's just so wrong at this stage of the game. When singing the low notes, it was almost painful. Not a great night for fair Brooke.

David A. chose Think of Me from Phantom. Good advice from Weber to keep his eyes open, and David did. Very good. Randy and Paula thought it perfect. Simon called it pleasant but forgettable. I tend to agree with Simon on this one. It will get him through to next week but won't be remembered as one of his super performances.

Carly chose a song from Phantom that Weber nixed and switched to Jesus Christ Superstar. She definitely had fun with it, but I found it mostly "shouted" rather than sung. Left me mostly flat. Sorry!

David C. went with Music of the Night. Surprising choice. My goodness! The boy carried it off. I think of him as a bluesy, rock singer, but I saw some new strengths here. Really fabulous. I like him more all the time.

---

My final thoughts: Syesha was the winner tonight followed closely by David C. I'd say Brooke is in danger and probably Jason in jeopardy beside her, although I texted quite a few votes for him because I'm not ready to see him go just yet. I would put Carly in the bottom three for this night's performances.

idol 7: from 7 to 6

On this results night, rather than identifying the bottom three one at a time, Ryan sent contestants to his right and his left. By the break we had Jason and Carly on his left and David C and Kristy Lee on his right. Hmm. Which group is at the top, which at the bottom? Kristy Lee is so often in the bottom three that I couldn't help expecting that those to the right of Ryan are the bottom group. Then again, both Jason and Carly have been in the bottom three at least once so...

Elliott Yamin sang. He looks so different these days. Dental work and a different hairdo and a beard. He was one of my favorites from the past. I'm delighted that he seems to be doing so well. But a sad note: he just lost his beloved mom.

My guess, as they returned to the results, was that they would send out David A last because wherever he went would give things away. I was right. Syesha joined Jason and Carly on the left. Brooke went to the right. Now I decided that the left would be the bottom group. But the show was only half over so plenty more waiting to do.

Next Mariah Carey sang. Fine. Fine. You're a super star. But I want the results!!!

So they called David A from the back, and the questions were racing through our minds. Which way would he go? But he wasn't sent to either side. He was safe. Now what? Oh, Ryan pulls a switcharoo. Syesha traded for David C. Ryan tried to get David A to join the group he thought was safe, but he did a sit down. Then Ryan announced that the guys plus Carly were all safe. (Carly tried to smack Ryan in disbelief but he moved out of the way in time.) So I was right (as were countless others) about last night. It belonged to the guys.

Would Brooke, Syesha, or Kristy Lee go home? My guess as I waited was that it would be Syesha. Would I be right or wrong? Wrong. After one of her strongest performances of the season, Kristy Lee was sent home (and Brooke breaks down in tears, again).

Kristy Lee has had a rocky season, and I sure hope she gets her horse back. I'm wishing her the best. And here's a thumbs up for the moxie it took to sit and sing her exit song to Simon.

-rlh-

idol 7: the 7 perform

This is a late post as I was on grandmother duty, driving Grandson #2 to and from soccer practice. Chewed up better than three hours of the evening.

David A kicked off Mariah Carey week with When You Believe. I thought he did a fine job with a really tough song. Missed a bit in the falsetto attempt. I love this song. One of my favorites from Prince of Egypt, and it worked surprisingly well from a guy. The judges loved it.

Carly (dressed very tastefully and less like an angry biker chick) sang Without You (which was around before Mariah, I'm sure). Much better than last week. I liked the first part best before she tried to power it, but the power part was good, too.

Syesha chose to sing Fantasy and looked lovely in gold. Hmm. Maybe I'm tired and cranky, but I thought it was a mess. The judges loved it much better than I did, that's for sure.

Next up was Brooke with Hero. She, too, was dressed elegantly. That must have been the dress code for the night. She does a good job accompanying herself on the piano. (I always think she does better when she's got an instrument to play.) I thought it was good. Not a wow, but solid. Judges gave mixed reviews and the chatter got out of hand.

Kristy Lee sang Forever. (And yes, another pretty dress.) Well, well. A rather good performance from Kristy Lee, who has lived in the bottom three from week to week but always escapes disaster. Kudos for surprising me. Simon just has no love for KL.

David C brought us Always Be My Baby. He changed it up quite nicely. Had a few less than stellar moments, but overall this was another of his excellent outings. The judges raved and raved.

Jason brought the evening to a close with I Don't Wanna Cry. No guitar tonight. Very mellow. Very Jason-like. Very good. I loved it. I love this kid. Randy was so-so on it, but Paula and Simon loved it, too.

The guys definitely took the night. No doubt about it.

idol 7: from 8 to 7

The 8 contestants sang Shout to the Lord at the opening of last night's show, and this time they didn't sing "Shepherd" in place of "Jesus." (Yes, I did go back on the DVR to check, and they did change the word on Wednesday night.)

I think some people misunderstood my last post. I wasn't horrified that they sang this song nor was I indignant. I am always glad to see the Lord's name lifted high. It was just a bit weird and seemed out of place with the rest of the show. However, last night I loved it. It felt a little more natural and less of just a performance, if that makes sense. Oh, and they announced that this was the #1 download on iTunes (wonder which version — Shepherd or Jesus?)

Okay, back to the show. Right off the bat, we learned that one I thought might be vulnerable was safe. Brooke moved right through to the sofa. Good, because I would have been sad to see her go this soon.

Jordan Sparks performed, and it was fun to see her again. And they awarded her with some sales awards.

The bottom three: Syesha, Carly, and Michael. So I guessed two out of the bottom three.

Who went home? It was a shocker. Michael got the fewest votes. And the audience booed and booed. I believe we have reached the place in the competition where the slightest oops, the slightest off performance, the slightest failure to connect with the audience can send a singer home.

Michael, there are a lot of people wishing you well, and I don't think for a moment that this is the end for your singing career. I for one will miss hearing you in these next six weeks.

-rlh-

Idol Gives Back

Did you watch Idol Gives Back last night? Did you give? I did, and I hope they surpass last year's total.

I caught most of the show while I was doing other things. Some of the performances were very good, and Jimmy Kimmel's assault on Simon was hilarious, although the comments about poking out Paula's eyes was over the top and crude. (If you saw it, you know whereof I speak; if you didn't see it, you are better off not knowing.) I was brought to tears with a few of the clips. I was inspired (despite myself) by Brad Pitt. [Note: I read in People Magazine that Pitt and Jolie give over $4 million each year to charity so despite other things about the couple that I cannot respect, I certainly give them kudos for this.]

Dianne asked me: "I'd be interested in hearing what you thought about the finale last night - the final song the Idol contestants sang together. Some Christian number - the name escapes me right now but I thought it was kind of tacky and out of place."

I had gone into my office, thinking the show was over, and then I heard a choir singing, "Shout to the Lord." I thought for sure it was an ad for a worship CD or maybe something on the news, but I returned to the living room to make sure. And there they were, the 8 Idol contestants backed up by a large choir.

So what did I think? Well, it was certainly a song I never expected to hear on American Idol, unless another Mandisa comes along. Stunned would be an appropriate description. And what followed was a feeling that it was inappropriate on Idol Gives Back because it wasn't sung by a group of believers who were truly lifting the Lord's name in praise. I know there is at least one Christian among the contestants, but I'm sure the majority are not followers of Christ. As for the choir, they could be just entertainers or they could be a Christian choir brought in for the night. Hard to know. They backed up Mariah Carey, too. All the same, it was a little disturbing, seeing Carly wrinkle her nose and belt out some lyrics without any regard evident for what she was saying. (That was just one example.)

On the other hand, Jesus might not be as bothered as I was:

Luke 9:49-50 John answered and said, “Master, we saw someone casting out demons in Your name; and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow along with us.” But Jesus said to him, “Do not hinder him; for he who is not against you is for you.”

And, of course, the Bible tells us that if we don't rise up in praise of Him, the very rocks will. The show was telecast all over the world. Maybe if even just one person found their heart responding to the truth it was worth it.

In case you don't know the song, here are those lyrics:

My Jesus, My Savior
Lord there is none like You
All of my days, I want to praise
The wonders of Your mighty love

My Comfort, My Shelter
Tower of refuge and strength
Let every breath, all that I am
Never cease to worship You

Shout to the Lord, all the earth
Let us sing. Power and majesty, praise to the King.
Mountains bow down and the seas will roar
At the sound of Your name
I sing for joy at the work of Your hands
Forever I'll love you, forever I'll stand
Nothing compares to the promise I have in YOU!

So yes, it seemed an odd choice from the Idol producers or whoever made the decision. I wonder if it wasn't uncomfortable for the Idol contestants who aren't believers to sing those lyrics.

Tell me, what do you think?

-rlh-

where's LOST?

I was so looking forward to a 17 episode uninterrupted season of LOST in the winter/spring of 2008. Then came along the writers' strike. So we got eight episodes this year and are now back to reruns until production catches up (April 24th).

So just in case you need a LOST fix, here is a YouTube video that will bring you up to date and make you laugh a bit.

PREVIOUSLY ON LOST: WHAT?

Now I bet you are really anxious for the show to return. By the way, there are a lot of times that I feel like this video. What?

-rlh-

idol 7: the 8 perform

Thanks to everyone for all the get well wishes. I am much improved and have been writing away. Even got back on the stair stepper today and did 100 sit ups as well. Took a nap immediately after the work out.

The theme on Idol tonight is inspirational songs. Understandable since this is Idol Gives Back week.

Michael kicked off the night with Dream On. Judges gave mixed reviews. Me too.

Syesha was up next with I Believe. Lots of talk about Fantasia, comparisons made. Since I didn't start watching American Idol until after Fantasia, most of it went over my head. I can say I liked it all right but wasn't wowed by the performance.

Next came Jason who chose the ukulele version (and plays one himself) of Over the Rainbow. Oh wow!!! I loved it. One of my favorite songs and a version I love too. Not the same power of Hallelujah, but truly excellent. Simon agreed with me.

Kristy Lee chose one of my favorite country songs by Martina McBride, Anyway. She did a pretty good job with it, too. Not equal to Martina but quite good. Best performance she's had since making the top 12, IMHO. The judges loved it too. Simon even said she looked like a star tonight.

David C. has had a run of high approval (by the judges) weeks, but this week's Innocent sort of broke the chain. I was totally unimpressed with his voice on this. And the backup singers almost totally drowned him out at times. Randy and Simon agreed with me, but Paula, who has been even more weird tonight than usual, thinks he was wonderful.

Carly chose to sing The Show Must Go On. Again with the backup singers overwhelming the contestant. Angry rocker chick thing going on, and I felt it was way over performed and shouted in spots. Basically a mess and certainly not "inspirational."

David A. selected Angels as his inspirational song of the night, and he accompanies himself on the piano. Thankfully the background singers remained in the background. Very nice. This kid has such a mature voice.

Brooke went with You've Got a Friend to close the show. (I used to have the song in my cell phone, assigned to my best friends.) A rather forgettable performance and nothing that made it stand out vocally.

Big winners of the night in my POV? #1 Jason and #2 David A.

Who's in danger? I'd say Syesha, Brooke and Carly are all vulnerable.

We won't find out the results until Thursday. Tomorrow is Idol Gives Back night. See you next time.

-rlh-

idol 7: from 9 to 8

Well, life took one of those turns today. I got up this morning to a very, very ill mother. By afternoon, when no meds had helped, Daughter #1 and I took Mom to the hospital. She was in the ER for about four hours. Feeling weak but a bit better, she'll be on a clear diet for a few days.

Anyway, I didn't get a single word written today, and tomorrow I have to take her to the doctor for a follow up. Which means it will be a tough writing day too. Deadline is bearing down on me. Not good. I need to write!!!

TMI? Sorry.

Okay, let's get to Idol, shall we?

We got a a song from the Next Great American Band winners, the Clark Brothers tonight. I wasn't crazy about their version of This Little Light of Mine. I must be too old to appreciate that style.

Bottom three tonight: Ramiele, Kristy Lee, and Brooke. But first ...

Here's Dolly, and she's singing Jesus & Gravity. Way to go, Dolly. Let's have a bit of revival on American Idol. This is one of her songs from her new album, Backwoods Barbie. Love it. Love it. There's just nobody like her. She is a true original (and one very talented songwriter).

And when all was said and done, Ramiele was sent home. And despite tears, she did a pretty good job with her exit song. Sweet girl and certainly a good voice. With some maturing and more performing experience, she could go places.

Wishing you well, Ramiele!

-rlh-

idol 7: the 9 perform

Whew! It rolled around already. Another Tuesday, and we are now down to one hour shows.

I'm a Dolly Parton fan. Have been for years and years. I've got a number of her CDs. And if you pay attention to my "Added to My iPod" list in the sidebar, you know that I bought Backwoods Barbie a couple of weeks ago. Love the video that goes with Better Get to Livin'. (And since I've been discussing plastic surgery in my past two posts, I'll say, I wish Dolly hadn't had so much done. She's looking way too stretched.)

Brooke kicked off what will be a fast hour with Jolene. I liked it a lot. I thought it was a solid performance and it suited her voice well. Randy and Simon were okay with it though not raving. Paula was more raving like an idiot. Sorry but she says the same thing all the time. "You are true to yourself." Yeah, but what does that mean?

David C. sang Little Sparrow. It was very good, but I can't say I was bowled over by it like last week. Still he is one of the frontrunners.

Ramiele sang Do I Ever Cross Your Mind? Sorry. I thought she looked cute and bubbly, but it was still a forgettable performance.

Jason sang Travelin' Thru. I liked it, but then I like his "folksy" style. Simon hated it. I guess we will agree to disagree tonight.

Carly sang Here You Come Again. A very slow version of it and rather over-performed. I'm sorry, but as pretty as her voice is, I wasn't wowed by this performance. But then, I love the Dolly version of it, which may explain a lot. So I agreed with Simon this time.

 

Paula is really in "pointless things to say" mode tonight. Sometimes I feel like asking her if she is taking her prescribed meds. Or maybe she is taking too many?

David A. brought us Smoky Mountain Memories. In rehearsal, Dolly was fighting tears. Oh, wow. Perfect song for his voice. I loved it!! Randy calls it the "best of the night," Paula babbles, and Simon thought it was "on the money."

Kristy Lee picked Coat of Many Colors (another Dolly song I love). I think this performance was one of her best. She didn't try to over-sing it. Simon called it "pleasant but forgettable."

Syesha chose to sing I Will Always Love You. Now, I have enjoyed both the Dolly version and the Whitney version of this song through the years, and Syesha sort of combined the two (which Dolly liked). Even before the end, I knew Simon wouldn't like the Whitney portion. To an extent, I'll have to agree. I liked the first half better. But I thought it was a solid performance.

Michael closed the show with All Wrong But It's All Right. A very bluesy version. I wasn't crazy about the arrangement (a little too much of the band, perhaps). But I liked him. He sounded awesome.

The hour whisked by and felt a bit rushed to me. I think they cut it from 90 minutes to 60 minutes a little too soon.

My favorites of the night (in order they performed): Brooke, David C., David A., and Michael. In danger? I'm thinking Ramiele. And unless lots of other viewers like Jason's folksy style, I think he could be in danger too.

-rlh-

cosmetic surgery ... should you?

Related to my post of last evening, this morning, I caught a piece on Fox News about Presley's experience. She had silicone injected into her face by a quack (I guess he was a non-licensed plastic surgeon). Silicone into the face is not an approved procedure and can apparently cause a lot of problems, including a bloated look and saggy, puffy jowls. The news item didn't discuss only Presley. They mentioned others, including Lara Flynn Boyle (pictured). The plastic surgeon Fox was interviewing said that these women "look like Cabbage Patch doll versions of themselves." That is the perfect description of what they look like.

Then there was the death of Kanye West's mother who went in for cosmetic surgery and died under anesthesia due to an existing condition. If she hadn't wanted to look younger, perhaps she would still be alive.

The young gal (early 30s) who used to do my nails elected to have her breasts enlarged and then started to get Botox injections in her forehead. In her early 30s!!!

Our culture of celebrity is driving women to some desperate places, and it is sad.

Watch some movies from the 40's and you'll see that actresses used to have some meat on their bones - and be thought attractive. Now we watch walking, talking toothpicks. I saw Keira Knightly in Atonement and she looked like a surviver of some sort of terrible concentration camp. It isn't pretty.

Well, that's my rant about American culture for the day.

-rlh-

Monday madness

I am in a race to finish my next book. Still have too far to go, but I'm giving it all I've got. As I flip my calendar over to April, I'm getting a black marker to check off those days as I head toward D-Day. I received back cover and catalog copy for this book today to correct and approve. Reading it made me feel good about the book, too.

Monday nights I like to watch Dancing With the Stars. I love to dance, although these days, it is just me and the dog, who often starts barking like crazy, as if to say, "Please stop, Mom! You look nuts!" Twenty years ago, I would have loved to be a "star" on this show. Of course, I would have fainted long before Marie Osmond did last year.

Priscilla Presley is the oldest female contestant they have ever had on the show, and I have to give her high marks for giving it a go. But is she becoming the next cosmetic surgery nightmare, in the footsteps of Joan Rivers? There is something very disturbing about her looks that just makes my heart hurt. Those cheekbones. Those weird lips. It's not the way she looked when she married Elvis or when she starred in Dallas.

Not that I don't understand the urge to get a facelift. I wouldn't mind firmer skin. I decided to do a facial peel a couple of weeks ago. Well, let me tell you. Peeling it off was not a pretty sight. The skin under my eyes pulled out about two feet. Okay, that is an exaggeration, but it looked like it was going to pull out that far. It was positively frightening!!! What if it hadn't gone back to where it belonged?

But still, I have to wonder what drives women to go to such extremes to look younger. There is something to be said for growing old gracefully — and naturally. Isn't there?

Potpourri

I had the nicest thing happen to me this evening. One of the readers (a lurker) of my blog wrote to check on me since I hadn't posted since Tuesday. And since I usually post on the departing Idol contestant on Wednesday nights that increased her concern. I'm very serious when I say, it is nice to be missed.

After a day of writing on Wednesday, I had a Homeowner's Association board meeting to attend. I am the HOA's treasurer, and after a very hard winter with lots of snow removal, we had important budgeting issues to discuss. Thus, I didn't get to watch American Idol "live." (We don't actually get it live in Boise.)

Thursday was a running around day. I wasn't home much at all. Then it was off to speak to the newly formed chapter of American Christian Fiction Writers. IdaHope Writers — cool name, huh? That was a lot of fun but I did Q&A for about an hour and a half so was very tired when I got home. No time to post.

My mom's hospital stay two weeks ago really put me behind on my book, and I've suddenly found myself needing to write many more words per day than is normal for me, so as soon as I was home from the chiropractor's this morning, I hit the writing hard.

TMI? Sorry. But it isn't as if I haven't thought of things I needed to post about. So I am going to do an "information dump" with a much more attractive name of Potpourri.

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Farewell to Chikezie.

On Tuesday, I said that Ramiele and Chikezie looked to be in danger. I also thought that Kristy Lee could have gone. I do feel that Chikezie has more talent than some who are still on board, but I never thought he would go the whole distance to Idol status. This kid has such a sweet heart, from all appearances, that it's impossible not to like him and wish him great success wherever life takes him.

---

Let me tell you about a book that you simply must read!!!

Small Footprint, Big Handprint: How to Live Simply and Love Extravagantly
by Tri Robinson

This book — only 125 pages, not counting Notes and Discussion Guide — is amazing. Like the man who wrote it (pastor of the Boise Vineyard), it is simple yet profound. Here's the back cover blurb:

What would you sacrifice to change the world? Your job? Your lifestyle? Your money?

We need a smaller footprint. The pursuit of the American dream has left most of us empty, stretched in nine different directions and self-absorbed. Aside from the occasional natural disaster, we've all but forgotten about the people around the world and down the street who need us and need us to live differently. We need to live more simply.

We want to make a bigger handprint. In a world crying out for help, we struggle to believe we can make a difference. But reformation starts with people who have one idea they believe can change their world and the power of God's love changes everything. We need to love more extravagantly.

The world is changing whether we like it or not. The question that begs to be answered is this: Will you sit by idly and watch it change for the worse or will you allow God to put you on the forefront of changing it for the better? Small Footprint, Big Handprint is your invitation to embark on a journey for the latter.

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How much is too much?

In the midst of reading the above mentioned book, my latest People Magazine arrived, and in it was an article about the McCartney divorce. Poor Heather Mills only gets $33 million cash plus two homes, additional funds for security and vacations and $70,000 a month in child support for their four year old daughter. She complained because Paul can fly A Class while his daughter will be forced to fly B Class with this little bit of money (my wording, not the article's). In the same issue is a beautiful photo display for J Lo and Marc Anthony's twin babies, including pictures of the pair of $3,000 prams (one for each baby) and their gorgeous mansion and her Mercedes.

The contrast of the way these celebrities live compared to how the rest of the world lives (and too many barely survive if they survive at all) made my heart break. I have been working at rendering down my life, at simplifying, at owning less and being owned by less. And yet, Have I given enough, Lord, to those who have so much less? Have I loved extravagantly?

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Movie Time

I have watched some really good movies recently that I simply must recommend.

Enchanted

A truly charming, feel good film. Okay, this isn't food for your brain. This is a movie to watch when you want to smile for a couple of hours.

    Martian Child
 

I am not sure when I added Martian Child to my Netflix queue, but I'm so glad I did. This is a charming movie, one that gives you hope for mankind. A story of a heartbroken widower, a writer of Sci-Fi, who adopts an orphan who believes he is from Mars. It's about unconditional love and trust and acceptance and being an imperfect parent in an imperfect world but doing the best you can and a whole lot more. John Cusack is wonderful (he's such a talented actor), and the kid who plays his adopted son, Bobby Coleman, is a young actor with loads of talent. Do not miss this. And never, never, never, never, never give up. (You'll know why I said that after you watch the film.)

The Kite Runner

 

I've already told my blog readers how much I loved the novel on which this movie is based. Well, I must tell you that I loved this film too. I watched the movie sometimes while holding my breath, in one scene hiding and unhiding my eyes, but it was the last line of the film which made me cry. And I do mean cry. It didn't matter that I'd read it in the book. Seeing it play out on the screen made me weep, both sad and happy tears. A tale of redemption worth seeing.

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So there you have it. Several days' worth of posts all in one.  

-rlh- 

idol 7: the 10 perform

I hit the stair-stepper at the start of American Idol. Maybe all that climbing (41 stories, by my count) interfered with my hearing, but I didn't think the evening started off too great. (Song choices were from the year the kids were born which meant mostly 80's music with one from the late 70's and one from the early 90's.)

Ramiele seemed off-key a lot through her song. Paula said she'd been under the weather. I think she is vulnerable.

Jason sang "Fragile" and I liked it, but it wasn't a Wow! performance.

Syesha had a good night. I can't say it was a favorite the way Randy and Paula seemed to think, but I was getting into the upper stories on my stair-stepping by then so maybe that colored my thoughts. {{grin}}

Chikezie's performance was very lackluster. Randy or Simon called it old-school, and maybe that was the main problem. I'd guess he's vulnerable this week.

Brooke sang Every Breath You Take. (Appropriate as by that time I was back on the couch and slowing my breathing.) She started off in the wrong key. Two words, and she stopped and began again. But the rest of it was quite good.

Michael chose two songs that he melded together, starting with We Will Rock You, then moving into We Are the Champions. (I can never hear We Will Rock You without envisioning the scene from A Knight's Tale — and Heath Ledger, too). Judges loved it and so did I.

Carly was up next. Hmm. She didn't do it for me. It felt very strained and her ending was atrocious.

Next up was David A. I didn't know the song at all, but it wasn't a ballad. I'm glad he switched it up a bit. That said, it isn't a favorite performance of his. And I still believe this kid will make it to the finals.

Kristy Lee went country-patriotic with God Bless the USA. Ouch. She was off-key more than once. But she nailed that ending note and it was the best performance she has had in quite a few weeks.

David C. closed the show. This guy is growing on me. His vocal tonight was impressive. He took a song I knew (Billie Jean — yeah, the one Michael Jackson did but it took me awhile to recognize it) but changed it up and made it his own. Brilliant!!!

My top picks for the night: Michael and David C. took the night.

-rlh-

Law & Order bias

I've been a Law & Order fan for years and years. There are so many great things about the show—the acting, the writing, even the da-da music. But lately, maybe for the past two or three years, there has been a growing number of plots that center around lunatic so-called "Christians." The bias is so obvious against Christianity it makes me wonder about the writer or producer who has an ax to grind, the person who is on a mission to portray people of faith as dangerous, war-mongering fanatics. This week's episode was another one. A mother stoned to death by her fire-breathing son who killed her because he learned she was having an affair and it was God's will that she be stoned.

I've been a follower of Christ for over 30 years, and I have never met anyone like those who show up on a regular basis on Law & Order (and its off-shoots). I'm not saying there aren't cults and individuals who call themselves Christians but who practice something very different from what millions of believers around the globe practice. But why can't they have some characters who are Christians who display the wisdom and discernment that I see on a daily basis? Why can't they be regular folks who have jobs, who are good to their children, who pay their bills and their taxes, who attend church but also go to baseball games and volunteer for charities? The believers who do good work, who have a social conscience, who feed the poor in the park or knit winter caps for the homeless. The believers who give up their easy lives in America to travel to a third world country to minister to the poor.

The hatred for Christians on L&O is disturbing and it's a kind of brainwashing that is seeping into our culture more and more.

-rlh-

idol 7: from 11 to 10

Tonight's hour seemed to go by quite fast, probably because I was busy working on some ancestry stuff for my brother and cousins while I watched and listened.

Big surprise when Carly was in the bottom three, no surprise when Kristy Lee was next, and a nod of agreement when Amanda joined them.

Kristy Lee obviously is one lucky girl. She dodged another bullet (three weeks in a row!), and it is Amanda who was sent home and missed out on touring with the top ten. I believe America got it right. Kristy Lee may have had some missteps, but she has the ability to sing more than one kind of song.

Yes, I think it was time for Amanda to leave the show. However, I must say, she was an original. I wish her well.

idol 7: catchup on the 11

Okay, really fast, I'll give my opinion before tonight's elimination:

Amanda: dreadful; she has one sound only, no matter the song she sings; she should be in the bottom two

Kristy Lee: not good; I'm thinking she could be in the bottom two again

David A: I do love his voice; great job on the song but I'd like to hear something that isn't a ballad from him in the future

Michael: it was okay; sort of all over the place, but not horrible

Brooke: another okay performance, but nothing to shout about like last week; too much trying to explain herself when the judges are talking, not arguing with them, just explaining (she does this every week, and I wish she would simply listen and thank them)

David C: I wasn't impressed with this and was glad when it was over

Carly: she has a beautiful tone to her voice; while not my favorite song, quite lovely

Jason: okay, I just plain like this kid, and I thought he did a better job of it than the judges did; agreed, it was nowhere close to his Hallelujah performance but good

Syesha: the best I've heard her in recent weeks; really lovely and the best song choice of the night

Chikezie: not as great as last week; the harmonica was a big mistake

Ramiele: a fun performance and looked adorable

Overall: I was underwhelmed, for the most part, by last night's show. My opinion remains the same—it should be Amanda and Kristy Lee in the bottom two. I think Amanda should go home, but she may hang on a few more weeks

-rlh-

idol 7: the 11 perform

My apologies to those readers who pop over here for a recap each week. I had some other things going on and only caught the last few performances. The show is on my DVR, but I won't get to watch them all until tomorrow.

I did hear Simon says that it probably wasn't a good idea to do Beatles songs two weeks in a row. From what I saw, I think he was right. Anyway, I won't be casting any votes tonight, and I'll just have to hope that the right singers stay.

idol 7: from 12 to 11

Syesha and Kristy Lee and David H. were in the bottom three. Not a huge surprise, although I expected Ramiele to be one of them, either in Syesha's or David's place. I was pretty certain yesterday that Kristy Lee would be the one to go home tonight, so David H.'s ouster took me by complete surprise. Did the news about his former job experience hurt him or was it his campy performance last night? Who knows?

Side Note: I enjoyed seeing Katharine McPhee again and thought she sounded lovely. I don't predict she will ever be a huge star (a la Carrie Underwood or Kelly Clarkson), but she will do well enough for herself.

Another side note: The Fox show promos are a pain. I find Jim Carrey pretty funny but I would rather watch him in a movie or even on Letterman than see these corny routines to promote a movie. Wonder who we'll see next week? The new star of New Amsterdam? Hmm.

Well anyway, farewell David. Wishing you the best.

Idol 7: the final 12

I missed the first five minutes of the show (was on-line with my telephone company), but I didn't miss any performances. Tonight's music: the tunes of Lennon and McCartney.

First up, Syesha with Got to Get You Into My Life. I wasn't crazy about the arrangement. She sang it well though, so we'll see how it stands up against the others. I thought the judges were right that she looked and seemed nervous rather than confident.

Chikezie was next up with She's a Woman. Says he's putting a "little funk on it." He did at that with the banjo and tambourine intro. Then he blasted out. Wow! How courageous. (I'm so glad he stayed instead of Danny.) The judges loved it, big time.

Ramiele came in with a more sedate and soulful In My Life. Pretty but no pizzazz. Judges called it "safe" and "boring." I agree.

Jason was next up, and I hoped he would do great with If I Fell. I liked it, but as I watched, I could already hear the judges saying "too safe" and "boring." (Yep, that was Randy and Simon; Paula loved it.) I think he's going to have to "fire up" the performances now that we're in this stage of the competition. Definitely good enough to make it through the judges say, and I agree. This kid is one of my favorites (and a blog reader says he has led worship at his church in the past).

Forty-five minutes into the show, we arrived at Carly. Her intro says she sings Come Together every week when she performs at home, so that was her choice tonight. She looked and sounded very comfortable, and it was a good song choice for her. Judges loved it.

David C. was up next, and he chose to sing Eleanor Rigby. He changed it up a lot, definitely rocked it. I figured the judges would love it, but I wasn't connecting with it. Just didn't impress me. Maybe I know the original too well. I came of age to Beatles music, after all. Yep. Judges loved it. (Paula rambled.)

Like Jason before her, Brooke chose to play an instrument (his was guitar; she was on piano). Her song choice was Let It Be. A good one for her particular voice. Too safe? I liked it although wasn't blown away. Funny, the judges didn't mention "too safe" or "boring" this time. Simon even called it brilliant.

Forty-five minutes left, and here came David H. He chose I Saw Her Standing There, one of the Beatles early tunes. I was about 11 or 12 when I first heard this song. I liked what David did, but I think Randy was right that it was a bit overdone (trying to do too much with a simple song). Simon really panned it.

Here comes Amanda with You Can't Do That. She shouts it and I can't always understand the lyrics. I really do not like her style/vocals. Nope, I didn't like this at all, and I don't care how often Paula declares how talented she is.

Michael doesn't rock this week. He chooses Across the Universe and gives a soft, soulful performance. A little bland at the start, but I liked it. Randy and Simon both found it "sleepy" and "bland."

Kristy Lee does a country version of Eight Days A Week. Hmm. I'm a country fan as most of you who read my blogs about Idol know. This was not a good idea. And her ending was nothing short of atrocious, IMHO. I think Kristy is in danger, along with Ramiele. The judges universally disliked it.

Side note: Ugh. Could we stop this silliness of Ryan attacking and insulting Simon? And it is Ryan who instigates these exchanges. Not only that but it is terribly unfair to the poor contestant who is standing there while it is going on. It's dumb and childish and does not add to the show at all. Somebody rein Ryan in because, despite the way Randy and Paula laugh and seem to encourage anything that tweaks Simon, it just makes Ryan look dumb and petty and idiotic.

David A. brings the show to a close with We Can Work It Out. I would say this was his weakest performance of the season. He said in the intro that he was really nervous, and it showed. Even some pitchy spots and some faltering on a couple of lyrics. Not bad enough to put him in danger, but not great. Judges pan it.

I have mixed feelings about this week. None of my favorites were stand-outs, but none of them were the worst of the night. I think Chikezie was the true stand-out this week. Going home tomorrow? Most likely Kristy Lee, although it could be Ramiele.

-rlh-

handicapping the AI finalists

Ken Barnes at USA today handicapped the 12 American Idols finalists. I thought it good enough to post here, mostly so I can look back later. I will add that I think Mr. Barnes has called it pretty good:

•David Archuleta: His soaring vocals and gawky teen appeal combo makes him the one to beat.

•Jason Castro: A sleepy-looking sleeper with a supple folkie style.

•David Cook: Also-ran became front-runner this week when his Lionel Richie cover had the crowd at Hello.

•Kristy Lee Cook: Hasn't sung well yet but country twang may give her a secure niche for a few weeks.

•Chikezie Eze: Ruben Studdard-type style may be passé these days.

•David Hernandez: Impressive, imaginative singer may be able to weather controversy and reach the top half.

•Michael Johns: Early favorite seems to be coasting; needs to re-establish his early soulfulness.

•Ramiele Malubay: This year's Paris Bennett-type cute kid with a big voice needs to pick up the pace.

•Syesha Mercado: Strong vocal chops but may be too much of a generic soul diva to reach the top.

•Amanda Overmyer: The designated "rock chick" will fizzle on non-rock theme nights.

•Carly Smithson: Sings like a polished professional (and was one) — a top three contender.

•Brooke White: Underdog has cleverly gone against the diva grain and could stick around quite awhile.

idol 7: third four out

During American Idol season, I don't find time to blog about much else. But believe it or not, I do have a life, and I am busy working. This week, I finally got back into my rewrites after lots of rounds of edits on a different book and was feeling good about having some momentum. So what arrived today? Page proofs of my novel that comes out in May. So tomorrow I set aside the rewrites and begin going through the proofs. They should go pretty fast. At least I hope so or I'm going to have a hard time finishing my rewrites by the deadline.

Weather was beautiful here today (low 50's), so after lunch, Poppet and I went for a walk around the neighborhood. No coat necessary, just a sweatshirt. Oh, I am so ready for all out spring to arrive. We've got signs of trees beginning to green up so it shouldn't be too far away (despite the very cold mornings).

I read through all the info out of California about the iPhone. Looks like users will soon have new third party apps to choose from, probably by the end of June.

Now back to our regularly scheduled post:

No surprises at the very start of tonight's results show. David C., David A., and Jason went straight to the first three of the twelve seats. Next came the girls, and Brooke and Syesha moved to finalist seats. But Kady was sent home (as was predicted by many, me included).

Halfway through the show, and David H. made it over to the finalist chairs, followed by Michael. Luke was the next to stand up, and I figured he had to go, not just because of past performances but because no guy had left yet. I was right. He was someone I loved early on and wanted to do well, but once he was in the 24, he just never performed to the best of his ability. Chikezie and Danny are left waiting for results. (I predict Danny.)

Fifteen minutes left and Ramiele and Carly went straight to the finalist seats. Amanda followed soon after. Kristy and Asia'h were the final two. Which one? I was up in the air on this one. Could be either one. Turned out to be Asia'h. I would have swapped her with Amanda.

Down to barely five minutes to get the final results for the guys. And it was Danny going home. Chikezie looked super surprised.

So here, America, is your final 12. Good luck, kids!

idol 7: the girls (8)

My Idol watching was delayed while I drove my granddaughter and three of her volleyball team members home. I live on the west side of Boise and they all live on the east side. My granddaughter took my iPhone and they watched some funny YouTube videos during the drive. Lots of giggling (they're 14/15 year olds). Always an experience.

About an hour and a half later, I was home and able to play the recorded show. Here we go, the 80's for the girls.

Asia'h took on a Whitney song, and I thought she did a pretty good job of it. Simon didn't like it. Again, why criticize using Whitney as a comparison?

Kady was only so-so in my book. Not terrible but not a standout. I don't think she will make another week.

Amanda, who earlier this week made some internet list as one of the ten worst performances in Idol history, actually did a pretty good job tonight. But I still view her voice as very limited. She can do this type of rock song and nothing else. Judges love it and say this is her niche. But I want more from an Idol winner. I want great vocals week after week, not one good week with one type of song. However this may have saved her bacon for another week or two.

I liked Carly tonight. Great vocals, and she looked good, too. Simon didn't like the song choice, because he felt she was so much better than the song, so it was somewhat of a compliment.

Kristy gave a country touch to a Journey tune. Enjoyable but not a Wow! performance.

Ramiele went the ballad route. Not a great performance in my book. She could be in danger.

Brooke put a folksy spin on her song choice, Love is a Battlefield. I liked it lot. Simple with only a guitar backing her up.