For the first time in American Idol history, 13 contestants took the stage in hopes of winning the million-dollar music contract prize. The 8th season promises to be an exciting one with a vast range of finalists.

Allison Iraheta and Jasmine Murray, both 16, are competing at the set minimum age. In contrast, Danny Gokey will be the oldest performer at the maximum age of 28. For the first time in the audition round, Idol traveled to Puerto Rico to find Jorge Nunez.

Another new addition this year comes from behind the judges’ table. Kara DioGuardi joins Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson and Simon Cowell as a head judge to guide the contestants through the competition. DioGuardi is a well-known song writer who has written hits for Kelly Clarkson, Celine Dion, David Archuleta and Carrie Underwood.

May 20
The final two battled it out last night and now the winner will be revealed. Arguably the best final two ever on American Idol, voters had a tough call on who to vote for. Both Kris Allen and Adam Lambert have fought so hard to be where they are, there will be no losers tonight.

The show opened with the top 13 performing “So What,” by Pink. It was too cheesy and corny but that is what American Idol is right? The girls sang “Glamorous,” and “Big Girls Don’t Cry” with Fergie before the rest of the Black Eyed Peas joined her on stage. The hyped up the audience with their number one single “Boom Boom Pow.” Santana performed with the top 13 and brought a lot of hype for is upcoming residency in Las Vegas’ Hard Rock Hotel. The top males went through Rod Stewart’s classics and hoped they can last as many years as he has in the business.

Lil Rounds hit the stage with Queen Latifah who looked great. They performed Latifah’s new single and tore the roof off the house. Alexis Grace and Anoop Desai performed “I’m Yours,” with the original artist, Jason Mraz. Fourth place finalist, Allison Iraheta collaborated with Cyndi Lauper on her classic hit, “Time After Time.” Danny Gokey and Lionel Richie followed with “Hello,” “Let Go,” and “All Night Long.” The most random performance of the night belongs to Michael Sarver and Megan Joy who sang with comedian Steve Martin. I do not know what that was and I hope we never have to see it again.

David Cook performed his new song “Permanate.” I do not like Cook but this song was really good, and am impressed by his performance. It was a great moment for the top two to see where their career could take them.

The American Idol awards took place tonight and the first award went to Nick Mitchell a.k.a. Norman Gentle for Oustanding Male. Mitchell took to the stage before transforming to Gentle and performed “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going.” He was just as insane as he was at the beginning of the show but still had everyone laughing.

Best Attitude went to Katrina Darrell or “Bikini Girl,” as she was named. Darrell brought some drama early on in the season when a dispute between her and Kara DioGuardi errupted because of her lack of talent. She took the stage singing Mariah Carey’s “Vision of Love,” before DioGuardi stole the show with her impressive vocals. At the end of the performance DioGuardi ripped open her dress exposing her bikini before quickly covering it, admitting Darrell had a better body.

The final award, Outstanding Female, went to Tatiana Nicole Del Toro. She out ran security for her chance to perform one last time before being cut off by Ryan Seacrest and a commercial. I must admit I missed her and am happy I got to see her one last time.

Allen sang with Keith Urban and performed his new single “Kiss A Girl.” I am not the biggest country fan but they put on a great show. But the best performance overall went to Lambert and Kiss. Besides the fact that Kiss was on stage, they put on an incredible performance that made Lambert look like he’s been doing this his whole life. Finally they teamed up to perform with the original members of Queen, singing “We Are the Champions.” Indeed they are.

Regardless of how far the contestants went, having the honor to stand on the same stage with some of the biggest stars ever to hit the planet is enough of a reward for anyone. It is fortunate to know that all of the finalist obviously were greatful and humbled by this experience.

Finally the results were revealed by Seacrest and Allen was crowned the new American Idol. It may have been a surprise for many due to the prediction Lambert was going to take it home. I called it from the beginning, the originality and honesty of Allen in all his performances carried him through this journey and ultimantly led him to victory.

Easily the best season of American Idol, I think it is safe to say it has not lost any of it’s heat and all of America is looking forward to what next year has to offer.

May 19
America got it right again, and put the two most deserving contestants to battle it out on the American Idol stage. Kris Allen and Adam Lambert have their differences but they both posses extreme talent. With both singers performing three songs the night was full of surprises and great singing.

Lambert opened the show with an amazing performance of “Madworld.” This was easily his best vocal yet and has me worrying for Allen’s chance at winning. The finalist’s first song was their favorite song of the season, leading Allen to pick “Ain’t No Sunshine.” I thought it was better than the first time he sang it but the first round, easily, goes to Lambert.

The second song set was picked by executive producer Simon Fuller. He chose “A Change Is Gonna Come,” for Lambert. I liked his version of it a lot but the origional by Sam Cooke is unbeatable. Once again his vocals were close to flawless but I despise his screaming. Fuller picked “What’s Going On,” by the legendary Marvin Gaye. He had a cool jam session on the guitar and the rest of the band close by him. The judges felt it was too laid back, but that is what Allen has brought to the show the entire season. However, this round was too hard to chose, I am going to call it a tie.

Finally the third round was the performance of the winning single, “No Boundaries.” The song was co-wrote by judge Kara DioGuardi. Lambert went first and I thought his voice fit well with the song but it was not believable, which he has been noted for most of the show. Allen’s vocals were too low for the song but this song is much more his style. I will say Allen won that round, leaving the American Idol winner a tie in my eyes.

I am hoping Allen takes it home, but I have a feeling Lambert will with the intense hype around him. Either way I will be happy for whoever wins because I know they will both go far.

May 13
The star studded American Idol semi-finals was filled with superstars and excited fans hoping their favorites made it to the next round. With over 88 million votes America is pushing their hardest to reward the most deserving contestant to win the crown of this years American Idol.

A surprise appearance from Alicia Keys kicked off the night with the crowd standing on their feet. She is the global ambassador for the Keep A Child Alive fund and urged America to donate a simple five dollars to help children in Africa. She brought to the stage a young artist named Noah, to perform his single “I’m the World’s Greatest.” Noah is from Rwanda and Keys helped fulfill his dream of becoming an artist. His drive and passion was apparent on the show and brought many viewers to tears.

Jordan Sparks performed her new single, “Love Is A Battlefield.” It was a decent performance for a mediocre song. She looked great though, but this song does not match up to her previous singles. Katie Perry was the second performer and did fantastic as usual. I thought it was a little unfair for her to have Adam Lambert’s name on her cape at the beginning of the performance. I would rather her just perform her song instead of making a statement when it is not needed. But she looked amazing and put on a show to match.

After going through each contestants home town experiences Kris Allen and Lambert were revealed as the top two. Danny Gokey was eleminated but his powerful voice will carry him far with this career. It is obvious that all these finalist are winners, made obvious by the tremendous excitement and support from their home town.

May 12
The best top three American Idol has seen in years took the stage to compete in the semi-finals of the biggest show on television. The contestants got to visit their hometown and received text messages from the judges on what songs they were to sing aside from another song of their choice.

Danny Gokey performed “Dance Little Sister,” hand picked from Paula Abdul. He finally stepped up and performed the way he should have all season long. But is it too late? His second song is the classic “You Are So Beautiful.” This was an obvious attempt to gain a strong female vote along with young teen girls with his soothing voice. Although it is a great strategy I doubt it will pull off the way he thinks.

Kara DioGuardi and Randy Jackson chose “Apologize” for Kris Allen to perform. I was never a fan of the origional version but I felt Allen nailed the performance and made me like it. DioGuardi had the nerve to knock down his rendition despite it being her song choice. She expected Allen to make it his own but Simon Cowell came to his defense to by telling DioGuardi if she wanted it a certain way, she should have told him. When Allen returned to the stage later on he completely stole the show with an accoustic version of Kanye West’s “Heartless.” One of the biggest risks I have seen on the show, I believe it saved him from elemination.

Adam Lambert took on U2’s “One,” at the request of Cowell. Since it was a ballad, Lambert repeated his usual performance with the spotlight just on him while he slowed the song down and then reached high in his vocal range. I do not think he did the classic song justice despite the praise from the judges. His second performance is really not worth mentioning. It was just another Adam Lambert song he decided to scream and Abdul melted in his presence.

For being so unique and origional, Lambert failed to showcase any of his talents he has been acknowledged for. Allen however, proved what I have been saying all along, he is truly origional and he deserves to win more than anyone else. I think Gokey will be shown to the door tomorrow night, but Idol is always full of surprises.

May 6
Tonight’s American Idol was just as electrifying as the show the night before. The final four teamed with their mentor, Slash, for a performance of “School’s Out.” I thought the song was an interesting choice but they were fourtunate to perform with a rock legend.

For the first time ever, Paula Abdul took the Idol stage to perform her new single, “I’m Just Here For the Music.” Not only was the song hot, her performance was one of the best I have seen on Idol. Complete with fireworks, Abdul attempted to ressurect her career on the biggest stage on earth. Besides the lip syncing, I think she pulled it off.

No Doubt took to the stage shortly after to promote their new summer tour. They performed their hit, “Just A Girl,” and proved they never lost the spunk they became famous for. I was surprised the lead singer, Gwen Stefani, could maintain her stamina throught out the performance with her bouncing around all over the stage.

Fan favorite, Allison Iraheta was released from the show and leaves Kris Allen, Danny Gokey and Adam Lambert to battle it out during the next show.

At the end of the night, Daughtry returned to the stage at the exact level of the show he was eleminated. This served as some positive news for Iraheta by showing her their are careers beyond Idol for non winners.

May 5
Rock and Roll week has a reputation on American Idol to bring out the best of the bunch to America. Tonight’s show did just that, however that does not mean I agree with it. Past Guns ‘N Roses guitarist, Slash, was the mentor this week. He brought that rock feel to the show to set the tone for the performers.

Adam Lambert opened the show with Led Zepplin’s “Whole Lotta Love.” This was the first time this song was performed on Idol and easily brought the house down. For once I will actually give Lambert his props, he did a great job with the song. I can easily see him selling tons of records when he is in this element but I hope he does not win.

Allison Iraheta should have shined this week but ended up creating a boring performance. She tried to channel Janis Joplin’s “Cry Baby” but it was just another rock ballad she tried to make her own with her raspy voice. I see a lot of inexperience when she performs and that will obviously develop with time, but right now I do not feel she’s cutting it.

Before running through their solo performance, Danny Gokey and Kris Allen teamed up for a duet of “Renegade,” by Styx. For the first time on Idol, the contestants were paired to join forces and bring a new twist to the show. I thought this duo was decent but Allen struggled during his section of the song.

He made up for it with his rendition of “Come Together,” by the Beatles. Judge, Simon Cowell, was not impressed because he felt it was too safe. I can agree with him there, but Kara DioGuardi was way off by saying he tries to hard. Gokey failed miserably with “Dream On,” by Aerosmith. He attempted the signature scream at the end of the song that Bon Jovi hit so well, and ended up sounding like a victim in a horror film.

Finally, the unfair team of Iraheta and Lambert got together to sing “Slow Ride.” I thought they shined during their own sections but sounded bad when they sang together.

Overall I thought the show displayed which singers should make the final cut. I predict Gokey and Iraheta will find themselves in the bottom two. Gokey butchered an Aerosmith song but I think fans will keep him around and Iraheta will be packing her bags.

The final four of arguably the best season of American Idol is the strongest yet. After a tough night of competition the strongest move on to the next round.

The last 5 finalist teamed for the last time for a group performance of “I Don’t Mean A Thing,” and “I Got Rhythm”
to go along with the classic theme this week.

After the shocking bottom three was revealed. Adam Lambert, Kris Allen and Matt Giraud faced elimination. Allen was sent to the chairs first bringing an even bigger blow to Lambert’s ego.

Natalie Cole looked stunning in her gold dress while performing “Something’s Gotta Give.” She sounded great and was a perfect fit for Idol’s classic music week. Season 5 winner, Taylor Hicks returned to the Idol stage for his new single off his new album The Distance. It was nice to see him back on the show and I thought his new song was fun and has the potential to be a hit in whatever genre it may fit in.

But Jamie Foxx stole the show with his performance of his single, “Blame It.” Even though not everyone who watches Idol his eneregy kept all eyes on him and put on a great show for the audience.

As much as I was hoping for a big upset, Giraud finally left Idol way past his due date.

April 28
Jamie Foxx guided the final 5 contestants during classic music week. I thought he was an interesting choice but he proved to push the singers to great lengths. For once in Idol history it is an open show, anyone could win at this point.

Matt Giraud sang “My Funny Valentine,” which was decent but I think he will not go anywhere in the industry with his undeniable resemblance to Justin Timberlake.

Danny Gokey killed his vocals as usual and proved why he should be in the finale. As the weeks go on he is impressing more and more. My pick, Kris Allen, soared this week with “The Way You Look Tonight.” Unlike other performers he has improved every week by raising the bar for the other contestants but more importantly himself.

Allison Iraheta bored me this week and thought it was just an average performance. Her rendition of “Someone Watch Over Me,” will take her to the bottom three this week in my opinion. Week after week she is sounding the same to me and not bringing anything to the show aside from the stereo-typical ‘rocker’ persona. The projected winner Adam Lambert continued to pull me away from ever enjoying his music with his self-indulgent stage entrance. He honestly had the nerve to walk down the stairs like he was a special guest performing on the show. And of course the judges bowed down at his presence and praised him for his repeated performance. He is the same every week. He takes a song, does the opposite of the origional version then screams his throat away. What a joke.

But after tonight I’m going to have to say Giraud will be eliminated. Let’s just hope he does for the sake of the show.

April 22
The results show easily outshined last nights show with it’s upbeat, fun performances. The show began with a video of Paula Abdul choreographing a dance with the final 7 contestants. After years of impressive dance moves I have never been so excited on Idol since Michael Jackson week.

The finalist hit every move spot on and their joy shined through every minute of the performance. I am pretty sure they were lip syncing, it is forgivable due to the heavy duty choreography given by Abdul. They danced to the Jackson’s “Shake Your Body (Down To the Ground).” So of course, everything about that performance made me happy.

Early in the show Lil Rounds receieved news of her Idol journey ending. It was sad to see her go after her impressive resume’ on idol, but I am sure it is safe to say she will have a prosporous career.

Frita Page, Thelma Houston and K.C. from K.C. and the sunshine band performed a medley of disco classics. The most entertaining was from K.C. and his performance of “Get Down Tonight.” It is obvious he lost his disco dance stamina but it was nice to see him back in the spotlight and jamming to one of the greatest songs of the disco era.

Season 7 runner-up David Archuleta returned to the stage with his new single, “Touch My Hand.” His voice is still superb but he still has the same air headed personality. I thought his time in the industry would have helped him mature but I suppose that is how he really is. It was nice to see him back since he was my pick for last year’s winner and his album rocks as well.

Finally, after weeks of dodging the bullet, Anoop Desai’s time on Idol came to end. He seemed shocked by it, but I am sure the rest of America saw it coming the whole time.

April 21
Disco week proved to be ‘disco songs remixed into ballads night.’ Although the contestants failed to live up to the up beat tempo of classic disco songs, they were able to show off their impressive vocals.

With two finalist going home this week, it was crucial for each singer to perform to the best of their ability. Matt Giraud was one of the few contenstants to sing an uptempo song for disco night. His rendition of “Stayin’ Alive,” lacked any spark but at least woke me up from the contstant ballads. Danny Gokey also had everyone dancing with Earth, Wind and Fire’s “September.” I thought he picked a great song but I do not see him being a mainstream celebrity. He is missing the ‘star’ qualitity needed to be on top of the music world.

Lil Rounds opened the show with Chaka Khan’s “I’m Every Woman.” I was excited to see her perform a song from Khan but the judges quickly shot it down. Rounds recieved the same comments from the judges on how she is lost from who she really is. I came to the conclusion that perhaps the change in her hair threw her off of her personal style. Regardless, I thought this song choice was a step in the right direction.

Allison Iraheta sang a strange version of “Hot Stuff,” this week. She sounded like an intoxicated kareoke singer seen trying to impress the crowd. There is no doubt that she can sing but the song choice was horrible despite Simon Cowell’s praise.

The self indulgent Adam Lambert copied his performance from the week before that got him the standing ovation. He performed with the lights barly lit and the spot light directly on him. His version of “If I Can’t Have You,” was decent but I just do not see the hype in him. Kris Allen however stole the show with his acoustic, contemporary version of “She Works Hard For the Money.” This is when Allen is at his best. Performing soul songs in a contemporary fashion that creates an entire new version of the song, something Lambert is praised for, but fails to do productivly.

After a boring disco night I predict Anoop Desai and Lil Rounds journey has ended. I will not say I am sad to see Desai leave after his forgettable performance but I do hope Rounds stays another week. It may be an upset but I feel with one more week she can finally release what the judges have been asking for, but her time is most likely up.

April 15
The Ford commercial opened early in the show with the contestants dancing and jumping around on magazine covers. This is my second favorite commercial so far this season due to the fun the finalist obviously had while shooting it. This was just the beginning of good night on Idol’s result show.

The final 7 got together to perform “Maniac” from the hit movie Footloose. They all sounded their best despite Anoop Desai’s close fall while walking down the stairs. The contestants appeared at the feature film 17 Again premiere preparing them for the star studded life they will soon be a part of.

For a third week in a row, Desai went back to the bottom three. He was joined by Matt Giraud and Lil Rounds. A frustrated Desai was sent back leaving Giraud and Rounds as the final two.

Idol alum, Jennifer Hudson, returned to the show for the first since winning a Grammy and an Oscar. She performed her new single, “If This Isn’t Love,” but I felt the audience was not feeling it too much. The song is actually good, just not while sining it live.

Then teen phenomenon Miley Cyrus hit the stage in an evening gown looking like she was headed to her senior prom. She performed the top ten single, “The Climb,” trying to highlight her vocals. She is not the best singer but her distinguishing voice seperates her from the pack enough she can get away with singing a ballad.

Finally at the end of the show, Giraud recieved the least amount of votes this week. He gave everything he had to his performance in hopes of the coveted ‘judges save.’ Surprisingly the judges used their one time save and Giraud is back for a second week. It’s obvious they did it for show ratings but I think it worked.

Now next week on disco week, two contestants will be sent home as a result of the ‘judges save.’

April 14
American Idol took the show to the big screen this week, with contestants performing songs from popular featured films. Due to the extended show time last week, many people who taped the show missed Adam Lambert’s performance. This caused such an uproar that the producers decided to only let two judges at a time speak. Obviously the show can not handle having four judges but I honeslty do not think the blame should be on them. Maybe if the show cut back on their commercials they would have more time for the actual contest.

Allison Iraheta opened the show with “I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing,” from the movie Armageddon. With Quentin Tarantio as the mentor, he helped direct the contestants perform the songs to the best of their ability. I felt Iraheta fell short of her past performances. Althought Simon Cowell said he thinks she could be in the running for the finale I thought he voice did not fit the song. I think a song like that should only be sung by the original artist.

Matt Giraud’s performance was a rough one to say the least. I zoned out a few times and was not impressed in any way. His effort was neither good or bad but just bland. Kris Allen left the guitar behind for his rendition of “Falling Slowly” and had a real intimate moment with the crowd. Kara DioGuardi noted that it was one of his best moments on the show and I agree, although I hope that next week he picks up the tempo.

Anoop Desai shined on with his vocal of “Everything I Do, I Do For You.” My problem with Desai is what he said a few weeks ago when he sang an Usher song. He said he picked “Caught Up” because that was the kind of artist he wanted to be. But ever since he got knocked down to that performance he has picked songs that the judges want to hear and not what he wants to sing. I think he is just doing what the judges want to stay on the show longer, but I think it is safe to say his album will not be filled with many ballads.

Paula Abdul said Lambert was the bravest contestant to ever be on the show. I was unaware that rocking out to “Born To Be Wild” qualified anyone of being brave? I think Abdul needs to control her obvious crush on Lambert and judge him like a normal finalist. I thought he did better than usual but all I hear is screaming when he sings. But it is obvious he remains the most dominant contestant to viewers by the crowd reactions.

Other fan favorites, Danny Gokey and Lil Rounds, had tough nights because of their song choices. Gokey conquered the vocals of “Endless Love” by Lionel Richie but he seems to be on repeat every week. Back to Michael Jackson week when he performed “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing),” he proved he can pump up the tempo but has never really gone back to that. After Rounds performance she found her self frustrated with the repeated comments from the judges. Cowell mentioned she is not the artist they put on the show but then she defended herself saying the songs she picked are a representation of who she is.

Overall the show was decent but I am still waiting for a real exciting week to hit the show. My pick for going home is piano player, Giraud. But I would not be surprised to see Rounds or Desai go home.

April 8
Tonight’s show opened with a surprise performance from Frankie Avalon. He performed his hit song from Simon Cowell’s supposed birth date, 1959. I think it is safe to say it was not anything exciting for people under the age of 30 but for the older people who watch the show, maybe they smiled.

The finalist performed for the last time as a group of 8 to “Can’t Get You Out of My Head,” by Kylie Minogue. Kris Allen rocked a Michael Jackson shirt only increasing my hope for him to win. I thought it was a fun song for them to sing and brought out a lighter side to the show’s performances.

The cheesy Ford commercial of Britney Spears‘ “Circus,” was introduced with a behind-the-scenes look at the shoot. This is the most current song they have done on the show but I think the song did not sound good because it is not meant for a group to sing.

With only three weeks left for the judges to use their save, contestants Lil Rounds, Anoop Desai and Scott MacIntyre all hoped they would not need the lifeline. I think America got it right this week as far as the bottom three. Ryan Seacrest sent Rounds back to the safe are while MacIntyre and Desai remained in the bottom two.

For some reason Idol chose to put mediocre rapper, Flo Rida on the stage. His first song, “Low,” is deserving of praise, but every song after that sounds just like his first. I payed little attention to his performance but I can tell you I would much rather have seen the Black Eyed Peas perform their new song than Flo Rida. Kellie Pickler also graced the stage with her song “The Best Days of Your Life.” She seems much more confident now than she did while on Idol.

After a judges deadlock, Cowell made the groups decision by booting Scott MacIntyre off Idol. Paula Abdul spoke after the result to remind MacIntyre of the inspiration he is to the show and the rest of the country. I found myself tearing up while his farewell clip played. He was a strong force on the show and I feel he will be a strong force in the music industry for years to come.

April 7
This week on Idol the contestants had to pick a song from their birth year to perform. I felt the final 8 failed to pick good songs from significant years in music. This entire season all the singers have had trouble picking great songs.

Kris Allen, who has done well with his song choices did not meet expectations with his pick of “All She Wants To Do Is Dance.” I found it very boring and it bummed me out because I want him to win! Lil Rounds has been pounded by the judges for her poor song picks. I enjoyed her performance of Tina Turner’s “What’s Love Got To Do With It.” I think since her voice does not sound like Turner’s so it was difficult to compare. But the judges still feel like Rounds has lost her touch.

Abandoning his usual piano driven performance, Scott MacIntyre played a guitar while singing “The Search Is Over,” from his birth year of 1985. I thought he struggled on the song but not because he left the piano. I can see why he would have the most confidence while playing but I think the song just did not suit his voice.

Danny Gokey and Allison Iraheta were my favorites of the night. Iraheta sounded good and her wardrobe along with her hair, greatly improved from past weeks. But the one contestant who had everyone cheering came from Adam Lambert. I have been watching this show since the second season and have only seen Simon Cowell stand for celebrities and the winners. Tonight he stood on his feet and gave Lambert the greatest response for a decent vocal. Sorry, but Lambert is nothing special.

My pick for going home is the one contestant I did not mention, Anoop Desai. I bet no one even noticed though. I think he should go home for that exact reason, he’s forgettable.

April 1
The results show was quite disappointing to watch. The love of my life, Megan Joy, got axed from the show. When asked by Ryan Seacrest how she felt about Simon Cowell’s comment last night, she simply said, “I didn’t care.” Cowell answered back about the ‘judges’ save’ with, “Just like you don’t care, nor do we.”

Joy was acting extremely weird the whole night, which proves that maybe it was a good thing she went home. Seacrest switched up the elimination process by lining the nine performers up in groups of three. Then one contestant from each group was in the bottom three. Aside from Joy, Anoop Desai and Allison Iraheta were in the bottom three.

Season 7 winner David Cook returned to the show with a lackluster performance of his new single. It was new artist, Lady Gaga, who stole the show with current number one song, “Poker Face.” She opened the song on a see-through, plastic-looking piano as a ballad before exploding into the up-tempo dance song.

The Ford commercial was odd but the group performance was the best this season. All the contestants joined together to sing Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’.” All the singers shined during their solo spots, exploiting the talent within the competition this year.

I am confused how Desai stayed in the competition despite his forgettable performances. He is a great singer and it is not that I want him to go, but he deserved to this past week. Hopefully he steps up his game because if he does not, he will be lost in the shadows of the other stars shining this season.

March 31
Tonight the contestants had the vast catalog of popular iTune hits to choose from. Every finalist had a great performance along with flawless vocals.

A few singers struggled to get their style across to the audience. Anoop Desai opened the show with an odd rendition of Usher’s “Caught Up.” He told the judges he picked it because he wants to be an R&B artist; the problem with that is, he is not.

The other contestant to struggle was the beautiful Megan Joy. I enjoyed her performance of “Turn Your Lights Down Low” by Bob Marley, but the judges felt otherwise. Perhaps she could have chose a different song, but I liked the vibe she released with this version.

Scott MacIntyre came out dressed like his musical idol Billy Joel all the way up to his hair. I am not a fan of the new style but this is a music competition so I am not too worried about it. I knew he was a great pianist but I had no idea he could play that well!

Another piano player who shined in my eyes was Matt Giraud. I have given him a hard time these past few weeks but his version of the Fray’s “You Found Me” was spot on. The judges commented that they did not like it because it had no soul, he is just not a soul artist. Sure he has the voice for it, but he will not sell records trying to market that genre.

Allison Iraheta out sang Gwen Stefani on her own song, “Don’t Speak.” The only problem with her performance was the look-alike Pebbles outfit from the Flintstones. I really have no idea what she was thinking. Every judge pointed out the distraction and I would not be surprised if America felt the same.

The worst song of the night came from Adam Lambert. He took all the funk out of “Play That Funky Music” into a mid-tempo rock song. He also ditched the emo style hair and black fingernail polish for a second week. Maybe Smokey Robinson’s comment on them embarrassed him about it. I will admit he can sing, aside from his screaming, but I just do not get his style. It will not sell records like his biggest fan, Paula Abdul, thinks he will. But if he were to sell a lot of records, there will be an equal amount of disappointed fans.

The stars of the night were Danny Gokey and Kris Allen. Gokey performed a perfect version of Rascal Flatts’ “What Hurts the Most.” I liked how he turned a country song into a contemporary soft rock version with his powerhouse vocals. Allen closed the show with “Ain’t No Sunshine,” and completely stole the show. He is a true original. He actually makes real arrangements aside from stealing them from someone else like Lambert does. He has not had one bad performance since the show started and I imagine him lasting a long way in this competition.

My pick to go home is Desai after that dreadful opening act. He had two weeks of great songs, but they were both ballads. Any time he picks up the tempo he fails to succeed. Tomorrow night’s show should be interesting since everyone is on top of their game.

March 26
Tonight was filled with special performances from some of the greatest in the business. Season two winner Ruben Studdard performed his new single “Together” tonight. He obviously lost weight and still sounded great. I am not sure if the song will be a hit, but at least he proved to the world he still can sing his heart out.

Motown week mentor Smokey Robinson joined with Joss Stone to perform “You’re the One For Me.” They sounded great together but I wished they would have picked a more popular song. I also did not care for Stone’s new lip piercing.

Every results show has the contestants create a car commercial to promote the new Ford vehicles. I thought this week’s was really cool and my favorite so far in the season. The singers created their own version of “Pocketful of Sunshine” by Natasha Bedingfield.

While Matt Giraud, Scott MacIntyre and Michael Sarver anxiously waited for results in the bottom three, legendary Motown star Stevie Wonder performed some of his greatest hits. “My Cheri Amour,” “Superstition” and “Overjoyed” kept everyone in whole theater on their feet dancing and singing along. Wonder was a great surprise to an already awesome week on Idol.

With a record-setting 36 million votes, simply not enough of them were for Michael Sarver. Thank you America for finally getting rid of him! He has never been Idol material and I cannot believe he has made it even this far. The unfortunate thing is that he will be joining the other finalists on their national tour after the show.

March 25
Due to our President’s press conference, American Idol was postponed to Wednesday and Thursday night this week. Personally, I would have much rather watched Idol than the unproductive conference.

This week Idol contestants were led by Motown legend Smokey Robinson. The finalists took a visit to Detroit Hitsville, U.S.A., to tour the studio where many Motown classics were recorded.

The night kicked off with Matt Giraud singing “Let’s Get it On” by Marvin Gaye. He started the song off as a ballad then threw in the infectious medley, complete with grunts and moans reminiscent of Gaye himself. Giraud fails to impress me, however. I feel like Idol has been filled with identical singers and Giraud brings nothing to the show.

Next up was my favorite: Kris Allen. He performed “How Sweet it is to be Loved by You.” Simon Cowell commented about Allen’s lack of confidence and swagger. That surprised me because that is what I like about him. I feel like he is really laid-back and just enjoys singing and jamming on the guitar.

For the second week in a row Lil Rounds came short of the judges’ expectations. Her rushed version of Martha Reeves’ “Heatwave” lacked any variation to her vocals. Scott MacIntyre stayed behind the piano, despite Paula Abdul’s advice not to, and gave his version of “Can’t Hurry Love.” Although the song was more up-tempo compared to his past songs, I think he got lost in the shadow of his competition. Despite a bad week, I do not think either of these contestants need to worry about being eliminated tomorrow night.

I must quickly give Abdul props for throwing crayons and coloring books at Cowell tonight. That was hilarious because it was so unexpected. The only downfall to the joke was Abdul’s colored-in mustache by Cowell at the end of the night.

Finally, Danny Gokey produced a great vocal and performance this week. The past two weeks Gokey has not met his full potential that he showed in the previous rounds. Tonight I felt he shined through and he was my favorite performance of the night.

I will admit, I liked Adam Lambert’s attire and even his vocals last night, but he is not in his own league, according to Abdul. He reminds me of last year’s winner, David Cook. He fools the audience into believing he’s original when all he does is perform a different version by a different artist! He is a phony and I hope America realizes that soon.

For the last time, I am telling everyone, Michael Sarver needs to go home! His version of “Ain’t Too Proud To Beg” was an embarrassment to Motown. Sarver should have felt horrible performing that in front of Berry Gordy and Robinson last night. Quit giving in to his sob story and just stop voting for him! He is my pick for elimination again. Once he is gone, perhaps there will be a real competition among the contestants.

March 18
What were you thinking, America? It frustrates me to see great singers leave the stage ? yet Michael Sarver is saved? I think America needs to quit giving in to his sob story ? practically all the contestants have families ? and eliminate him!

Alexis Grace was the third contestant sent packing on American Idol. Her Dolly Parton performance of “Jolene” on country week, which was pretty solid to me, sent her home on the top 11 results show.

The judges debated during her farewell performance if they were going to use the ‘judges’ rule’ to save her from elimination. However, the judges decided not to keep her around, saying, “It was good, but not good enough.”

Country star Brad Paisley performed his single “Then” during the show. Just like country week, it was boring and I found myself losing interest as the song went on. Carrie Underwood and Randy Travis performed together for the first time with “I Told You So” to Idol viewers, which kept me entertained.

Hopefully this is the last boring week on Idol because I don’t know if I could sit through another two shows like these. We shouldn’t be disappointed next Tuesday though ? it’s Motown week on Idol!

March 17
Country week on American Idol proved how boring country music really is. I found myself falling asleep after the first performance by Michael Server. I hated his performance last week and it was no different this week. I believe it is time he goes home!

Grammy Award winning country star Randy Travis guest starred on Idol this week. Travis is a country phenomenon with 16 singles topping the country music chart since 1985. I thought he helped the contestants pretty well this week, but I loved his frightened comment about Adam Lambert’s painted fingernails.

Speaking of Lambert, his performance was easily the weirdest to hit Idol. He took a classic country song, “Ring Of Fire,” by Johnny Cash and turned it into an indulgent arrangement that took away all the integrity of the song. Judge Paula Abdul needs to open her ears while listening to him. I think her crush on him overshadows her opinions on a mediocre artist.

Abdul did look stunning last night though. However, Kara DioGuardi struggles every week to put together a decent outfit. I feel like her significance on the show neither makes it better or worse. (But I do like the songs she writes).

My new favorite, Kris Allen, continued his strong presence on the show with a Garth Brooks song. The most improved contestant from last week is Anoop Desai after his country ballad. His song choice may have saved him from elemination.

Idol favorites Lil’ Rounds, Danny Gokey and Allison Iraheta all were less than stellar this week on Idol. But I will not give them that hard of a time since country week is pointless. My crush, Megan Joy (who, by the way, looked absolutely gorgeous), probably did not do too great either but I consider her an important asset to the show.

I thought the best of the night was Alexis Grace with her rendition of “Jolene” by Dolly Parton. The judges did not think it was too hot but I felt like she sang great and made the night a little less predictable.

I predict Sarver will go home after two weeks worth of horrible performances and his lack of stage presence. I also would not have a problem with Matt Giraud going home. I think he stands where DioGuardi does: they both add nothing to the show besides face time.

March 11
The elimination round opened with a soulless version of the Jacksons’ “I Want You Back.” After 33 million votes, American Idol does not appear to be loosing any of its thunder with the nation.

Host Ryan Seacrest announced a new rule early in the show called the ‘judges save.’ The judges will have the opportunity to keep one contestant if they believe he or she deserves a second chance. The twist is that the following week, two finalist will be voted off.

I was shocked when Michael Sarver, the oil rigger, was saved after his horrible rendition of a Jackson classic. Then the judges took my crush, Megan Joy Corkrey (the girl with the tattoo on her arm), down with Jasmine Murray for the first elimination. Luckily Murray was booted, probably because America forgot she performed at all.

Guest artist Kanye West tore up the stage with his smash “Heartless” from his new album 808’s and Heartbreak. I think I might rock a denim jacket now that West brought it back.

Midway through the show, Anoop Desai and Nunez were condemned to the bottom two. Thankfully Nunez was sent packing after his mediocre version of the Jacksons’ “Never Can Say Goodbye.”

Kelly Clarkson joined the show to sing her No. 1 song, “My Life Would Suck Without You,” to support her new album, All I Ever Wanted, which dropped this week. She sounded good, looked alright, but I’d much rather have seen the king of pop himself take the stage to celebrate his week on Idol.

March 10
I could not think of any better way to start off this season of American Idol than with a Michael Jackson week.

The contestants performed decades’ worth of hits from Jackson’s vast catalog. Stretching all the way back to “I’ll Be There” to 1997’s “You Are Not Alone,” the finalists showcased Jackson’s best work.

I was weary about the talent selected this year but several of the contestants proved me wrong. Lil Rounds, the 23-year-old artist from Memphis, Tennessee, was a favorite of mine from the beginning. She kicked off the show with “The Way You Make Me Feel” and blew the roof off the house by bringing a real bluesy Mary J. Blige-esque vibe.

Some finalists added an extra edge to their performance by using instruments. Blind contestant Scott MacIntyre shined behind his piano with his version of Jackson’s “Keep the Faith.” Kris Allen took an acoustic version of “Remember the Time” which greatly paid off, while the last performer, Matt Giraud, played his rendition of “Human Nature” on the piano, which was far below spectacular.

With two contestants facing elimination, I predicted the end of Michael Sarver, who butchered “You Are Not Alone,” and Anoop Desai who performed “Beat It.” However, I would love to give Desai a second chance to get rid of the screaming Adam Lambert who sang “Black or White.” I fail to understand the hype surrounding Lambert; if so talented, why hasn’t he made a break after five years in Hollywood?